Black to Business – Issue 57 – Fall 2013

issue

57

FALL 2013

Also in this Issue: African Nova Scotian Realtors

“A dynamic and vibrant Black presence within the Nova Scotia Business Community.�

Black 2 Business is the official periodical of The Black Business Initiative Its goal is to support the BBI as it fosters a dynamic and vibrant Black presence within the Nova Scotia Business Community.

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For Advertising Information, Rates, Submitting Story Ideas, Notices or Community Events, and for more Information, call: 902-426-8683

ECO-EFFICIENCY

Published by: The Black Business Initiative

Trend or Way of Life?

1 Message

Editor in Chief: Michael Wyse Design & Layout: Design North Production by: Mirabliss Media Productions

9

2 Dalhousie's Corporate

Residency MBA

2 Regional Shout-Outs

Cover Photograph: Paul Adams

The Black Business Initiative Centennial Building Suite 1201,1660 Hollis Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 1V7 Phone: 902-426-8683 Fax: 902-426-8699 Toll Free: 1-888-664-9333 E-Mail: bbi@bbi.ns.ca Web Site: www.bbi.ca

from the Chair & the CEO

3 COVER STORY

Eco-Efficiency

8 BBI's On The Move

9 House of Auto Details David & Natalie Wilson

13

11 Trailblazers

Shauntay Grant & Jessica Bowden

13 Kalen’s Take Out

Mailed under Canada Post Publications Mail Sales Agreement no. 0040026687

Marsha Peters

C O NTENTS 15 People & Business

on the Move

17 African Nova Scotian

Realtors

21

21 Jones was a People’s

Champion Rocky Jones

25 Illville International

Clothing Dennis Wright

27 Smart Smiles

Dental Hygiene Olu Brown

25

29 Out & About

with the BBI

30 Constructing

the Future 2013 Graduation

31 Ask the BBI

Entrepreneur’s Tool Kit

32 Business is Jammin'

27

Junior Achievement

33 The Law

and Your Business

34 BBI Training Schedule 36 Community &

Business Events

The Black Business Initiative (BBI) is a province-wide business development initiative committed to fostering the growth of businesses owned by members of the Nova Scotia Black Community.

The BBI focuses on supporting business starts, business growth and business attraction to Nova Scotia. The BBI also places priority on supporting Black owned firms to improve productivity, invest in strategic innovations and enhance regional and global competitiveness.

In 1996, the Government of Canada and the Province of Nova Scotia set up the BBI to address the unique needs confronting the Black business community in Nova Scotia. For the first five years of its existence, BBI was funded under the COOPERATION Agreement for Economic Diversification, a joint agreement between the Federal and Provincial Governments.

The BBI is currently funded by the federally administered Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and the Provincial Department of Economic and Rural Development and Tourism.

BBI Vision A dynamic and vibrant Black presence within the Nova Scotia business community.

BBI Mission To positively influence the Nova Scotia business culture by promoting and assisting in the development of Nova Scotia Black-owned businesses.

2 ...

Message from the Chair and CEO Greg Browning, Board Chair & Mike Wyse, CEO

affect meaningful change for our communities, for our collective prosperity; each of us needs to be a catalyst. We need to be politically active as voters, contributors to the political dialogue and establish an enhanced presence as candidates, political staff and volunteers.

We need more community members coming forward to voice their needs, wants and desires for a more inclusive and prosperous future.

Message

Mike Wyse, CEO and Greg Browning, Board Chair

We are striving to be better, faster, more costeffective and more relevant – How are we doing?

We are better positioned to improve with honest and open dialogue. Please take the opportunity to contact us and share your thoughts on how the BBI can better serve the Black business community. Though we cannot and will not try to be all things to all people, please know that in response to feedback, we are driving the agenda in areas such as training, construction sector certifications, students in business funding, strategic partnerships, linking businesses to government funding programs and much more.

Be assured that we remain focused on supporting job creation through business starts, growth and attraction. We are working hard to enhance our value proposition as a viable, strategic and forward-thing cog in the economic engine of Nova Scotia.

At the time of this writing, Nova Scotia was in the midst of a provincial election. We want to salute MLA Percy Paris, Irving Carvery, Andre Cain, Stephen Gough, Tony Ince and all the candidates for their commitment and sacrifices to serve the community through public service. We also want to thank all those who took the time to become informed about the issues and then voted. If we are to

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As we move towards the holiday season, may we respectfully remind you that as consumers, we have the opportunity to buy local and support the Black business community. They are job creators, innovators and community builders and integral contributors to the economic foundation of our communities.

They provide great products and services and we each have an opportunity to invest in local business success – in building a stronger Nova Scotia stronger!

Editor’s Note: Both Stephen Gough and Tony Ince were successful in winning the seat in their ridings. Tony Ince was appointed the new Minister of the Nova Scotia Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage and African Nova Scotian Affairs.

Dalhousie’s Corporate Residency MBA by: Shauntay Grant

Travel Agencies The Black Business Initiative (BBI) and Dalhousie University have teamed up to offer a very sweet deal – a $10,000 renewable scholarship for Black Nova Scotians at Dalhousie’s Corporate Residency MBA degree program.

Designed to quickly immerse the “highest caliber candidates” into the business world, the Corporate Residency MBA offers paid corporate residencies and high-level training in various areas, including negotiation, management, leadership development, and presentation skills.

“The program trains people to meet high-level positions,” says BBC Chief Operations Officer Gregory Nazaire.

“It’s a very good opportunity to get young Black professionals with potential involved in the mainstream corporate world.”

Nazaire says he’d like to see a larger pool of Black business professionals around the province. “You don’t see enough high-level senior black executives.”

He is confident that the new scholarship will not only help build better capacity in existing Black businesses, but also provide access for better representation of Black Nova Scotians “in key levels of the corporate world.”

Corporate Residency MBA Director Dan Shaw shares Nazaire’s hope for more Black Nova Scotians in seniorlevel positions. He says diversity is needed in the classroom as well.

“We have a very diverse faculty from all around the world,” he says of the MBA program. “But we haven’t had much success at having that physical diversity in the classroom.”

The MBA Corporate Residency program has yet to graduate a Black Nova Scotian student.

“We have to be progressive in recruiting to get that diversity, and this (new scholarship) is one tool to do that. There are going to be real opportunities for that person to get amazing profile – community profile and employer profile. So I think that’s exciting.”

And while a background in business may be an asset, Shaw stresses that it is not a requirement. “(The Corporate Residency MBA) is also for someone who doesn’t have any business background, but may have a lot of raw potential,” says Shaw. “Thirty to forty percent of our students do undergrads in business, but we get people from all walks of life with backgrounds in neuroscience, music, French… there’s a real diversity.”

The Black Business Initiative and Dalhousie University are currently seeking applicants for the 2014/15 academic year. For more information on the Corporate Residency MBA program please visit www.dal.ca/ academics /programs /graduate / corporate_residency_mba.html

Are you planning on travelling to a sunny destination this winter? Missy and Debbie are two consultants who can help you with your travel needs.

Missy Symonds Searl has been contributing to peoples travel dreams since 2010, with The Holiday Experts.

The company is based in Yarmouth but Missy works in the HRM and offers regional clients Skype and Facetime appointment options. She’ll research and plan without requiring a retainer.

Her specialities include destination weddings, cruises, group travel, family reunions, car rentals, domestic flights, international bookings, travel insurance, and more.

On Facebook: Travel Agents of The Holiday Experts Missy Searl and Pamela Young Missy-searl@theholidayexperts.ca 902-483-8722 Debbie Johnson is a self-employed travel consultant at Downtown Travel.

She entered the travel business in 1998 as an apprentice. Since then she has taken numerous travel related courses and has won an award as most improved sales person in 2003. Debbie is proficient in all aspects of the travel industry, from booking cruises, groups and business clients. As a member of Uniglobe Enterprise Travel, she became certified

by TICO allowing her clients to be 100% protected against supplier default. ‘‘For great service and great deals, contact Missy or Debbie,” ~ the BBI. Downtown Travel 2479 Brunswick St, Halifax, N.S. B3K 2Z4 902-425-7458 • dttravel@eastlink.ca 2 ...

Cover Story

Eco-efficiency

Trend or way of life?

3 ...

Paul Adams

P

eople talk about the eco-efficiency trend that’s been

sweeping the nation and, more specifically,

our

province.

However, in the past decade concerns for eco-efficiency and sustainability have become more than a trend. Being ecoefficient and sustainable represents a way of life that many are embracing wholeheartedly. The African Nova Scotian community boasts a number

Robert Loppie and Jason Vallaincourt are considered pioneers in the recycling industry. Back in 1999 the duo was searching for a way to be independent business owners. When the green cart curbside program was introduced to HRM, Loppie and Vallaincourt saw an opportunity: residents would need a way to keep their bins clean. Their company, Bin Doctor, started as a residential bin cleaning service. It didn’t take long, however, before Loppie and Vallaincourt saw the opportunity to grow. They expanded to create products that would help people recycle and compost at home and at work. Bin Doctor now sells bins at major retailers across the country and has many other products as well.

For example, their kitchen bin liner is sold at all major grocery stores.

of innovators whose environmentally conscious businesses practices are making a difference that will last for generations.

"Let us be good stewards of the Earth we inherited.

All of us have to share the Earth's fragile ecosystems and precious resources, and each of us has a role to play in preserving them. If we are to go on living together on this earth, we must all be responsible for it." ~ Kofi Annan U.N. Secretary-General

Robert Loppie & Jason Vallaincourt Bin Doctor

by: Charlene Davis Photos: Paul Adams

Not long after Bin Doctor’s birth, entrepreneur Dana Emmerson jumped upon another need: proper disposal of fluorescent light bulbs. He founded Dan-X Incorporated, a company that sells the Mark 2000, a crushing device that separates a lamp’s glass from the mercury vapour without endangering the operator to mercury fumes. This product reduces the space it takes to store the lamps and breaks them down in a way that meets the criteria for safe delivery to landfills. But there was still a problem in Emmerson’s eyes – the lamp waste went to landfills.

The success of the Mark 2000 birthed his next, even more environmentally conscious, endeavour, this time with partner Dave Hall. Dan-X Recycling Limited is a state of the art recycling plant that separates all components of light bulbs: the mercury powder, the glass, and the metal. After this separation, the components are sold back into the marketplace to create new products. This new invention works double time for the environment.

It keeps hazardous mercury out of our landfills and it repurposes not only the mercury but the glass and metal too, minimizing the energy consumption needed to make new products.

“It’s slowly growing,” says Emmerson of the business, but government regulations regarding the disposal of mercury are needed for the business to make a larger impact. At the moment, only environmentally conscious businesses are willing to pay for Dan-X’s services. To help change this, Emmerson works to continued on page 5

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only in operation two days a week.

However, considering it is estimated that the mercury from a single compact fluorescent lamp can contaminate up to 20,000 litres of water, any number of recycled bulbs makes a positive difference.

The difference made by co-efficient initiatives expands beyond recycling and waste reduction. In the field of homebuilding, t wo African Nova Scotian run businesses are contributing greatly to Nova Scotia becoming more eco-efficient. Charles Adams, president and owner of Hindsight Infrared Services Inc. and Hindsight Plumbing and Heating, is a Certified Level 1 Thermographer and Certified Energy Advisor for the ENERGY STAR and EnerGuide programs. He investigates issues such as heat loss, insulation,

Dana Emmerson Dan-X Recycling promote awareness of the dangers of mercury and educates the public on the benefits of properly recycling mercury products. He believes Dan-X Recycling offered a great service to the environment by purchasing the recycling plant. “We did it with no regulations, we took a gamble, but we believe that this is the way industry is going,” says Emmerson.

Since it opened, Dan-X Recycling has prevented about 17-18 thousand pounds of mercury from entering the landfill and it has crushed and separated over four million bulbs in a three year period. Emmerson would like to see that number grow exponentially.

It’s actually not a lot considering their machines can crush over 2000 bulbs an hour; at the moment the plant is 5 ...

Charles Adams Hindsight Infared Services Inc.

moisture, and electrical so new homes can meet Efficiency Nova Scotia’s level of satisfaction needs for an EnerGuide rating. “This allows the homeowner to get the rebates the government offers for energy-efficient homes,” says Adams, and it also means the homes are a lot more environmentally friendly.

Adams’ work directly relates to the work being done at ADEPA Construction Management Inc. ADEPA, owned by Black Business Consulting, focuses on building quality, energy efficient buildings. This eco-efficiency is built into floors, doors, windows, studs, walls, and roofs through a process called the envelope. Project Manager Gordon Tynes explains the envelope with the analogy of pouring water in a bucket full of holes: that’s not very efficient. The bucket needs fewer holes.

Tynes says that most houses lose the majority of their energy through air exchanges from the outside to the inside and vice versa. By building a more efficient envelope, a house will be tighter and the heat conduction through the walls will be lower, which means more energy will be conserved.

“The work required to build an energy efficient home is in the details,” says Tynes. “It’s not that it’s hard to do, it’s just that people don’t pay attention to the details.” ADEPA strives to always be on the cutting edge of energy efficient and environmentally friendly homebuilding. “We’re always working on increasing our knowledge with respect to the envelope,” says Tynes.

As important as it is to provide services for consumers that promote eco-efficiency, the owners of these entrepreneurial companies also see the importance of being eco-efficient and sustainable in their business practices and home lives. Eco-efficiency is clearly a primary concern for Bin Doctor. The

Gordon Tynes & Darrel Viner ADEPA Construction products and services they provide help other businesses become more efficient in sorting and separating their recyclables. “Because of what we do, businesses are able to recycle easier and recycle better, which means fewer products entering the waste stream,” says Loppie. Since Loppie’s goal is for Bin Doctor’s services and products to help consumers and businesses be more eco-efficient in their day to day operations, it is important that Bin Doctor upholds those same values.

As part of this mindset, the company designed a water reclamation system that completely recycles the water used to clean bins. “Without this system we’d go through a lot of water,” says Loppie, “but now we’re able to use the same water. That’s one example of how our operation is able to become a little more efficient.”

In addition, they’ve become eco- Emmerson. “It’s the whole process,” efficient in their product production says Loppie. Like Emmerson, Loppie methods. Initially they were using raw recycles at home and is conscious materials in their kitchen bin liner. Now of his family’s energy consumption. they use recycled materials and make “If we all participate in being a little the liner out of recycled paper. Loppie more efficient it will help with the says that throughout their company environmental footprint: not as much and within business dealings they pollution, not as much waste, and not focus on the three R’s of Reduce, Reuse, as much energy burned,” says Loppie. and Recycle and find small ways to be as sustainable and environmentally conscious as they can: they use the flip side of previously used paper for inter-office memos, they ensure that as much waste as possible is recycled, and they participated in the eco-efficient program offered by the Custom Design province. “If every business had the same philosophy in terms of becoming Additions more efficient in each of its operations Energy Home Audits I can’t imagine the magnitude it would have, “ says Loppie. “It would reduce Kitchens & Baths energy, it would reduce waste, it would reduce water consumption,” Windows & Doors which, adds Loppie, would translate Plumbing & Electrical to a major reduction of resources and major savings for the province.

Roofs & Siding Emmerson agrees that businesses need to actively strive to be ecoefficient and sustainable. “The way that we handle our environment is the responsibility of every individual,” he says. He believes we all need to have a realization of the way we’re contributing to the environment, and work to make positive contributions.

On a professional level, Emmerson’s passion is to see mercury banned from going into the landfills, which would mean no risk of any more mercury leaching into the water table and negatively affecting plant and animal life – humans included. On a personal level, he also strives to be eco-friendly.

“I recycle everything I can and think everyone should have some sort of strategy on how they recycle in their homes and businesses,” says

Decks & Fences Flooring & Trim and Much More Committed to Service Excellence!

No Job too Big or too Small give us a call...

A part of the BBI’s Composite Group of Companies

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Buy local. Invest local.

NOVA SCOTIA'S ECONOMY.STRONG.DIVERSE.HEALTHY.

The Black Business Community Investment Fund

CBDC Blue Water

Students in Business Program (SIB)

Black Business Community Investment Fund Limited (BBCIFL)

This program assists students between the ages of 15 and 34 who wish to explore the world of entrepreneurship. This program offers interest free loans up to $5,000, training, as well as on-going support from a strong business development team.

BBCIFL was born out of the need to provide capital to Nova Scotia Black-owned businesses possessing the potential to grow, show profitability and can create jobs for Nova Scotians.

In the past 10 years, over a hundred Nova Scotians have invested $670,000 in BBCIFL, thereby contributing in the creation of more jobs for Nova Scotians as well as the sustainable prosperity of our great province. 14 investments worth about $1.3 million have been made to date.

At no other time in Nova Scotia’s recent history has there been such optimism and potential for real economic growth and prosperity.

On behalf of our investors, we at the BBCIFL are seizing this momentum by financing local Black-owned businesses demonstrating high performance potential, helping them to compete on the world stage.

We believe in the enterprising nature of Nova Scotians and their ability to create wealth for themselves and their stakeholders.

Call (902) 426-4281 to find out more about the success stories of the businesses BBCIFL has invested in. www.bbi.ca 7 ...

facebook.com/BBCIFL

twitter.com/BBCIFL

With training and mentorship from Business Is Jammin' and a CBDC Students in Business Loan, 16 year old Isaiah Skeete, a student at Prince Andrew High School in Dartmouth, started his own business, “Ayo Zai’s Accessories”. You can reach Isaiah at (902) 579-5903.

To learn how you can start and grow a business with BIJ and CBDC contact:

small.rodney@bbi.ns.ca 902-476-9764 @BusinessIsJammin

BBI’s On the Move 2013 year to date BIJ Summer Youth Coordinators introduced youth to the world of entrepreneurship province wide.

There were 1,317 participants in our programs, workshops and camps, which represented a 10.02 percent increase in total participation over last year`s activity levels. We were pleased to have Robyn Martelly serving the Cape Breton region, Rene Boudreau served the Truro region, Kayla Fells served the Yarmouth, Shelburne and Digby regions, Brittany Vaillancourt served the Halifax region, Lysa McGrath served the Dartmouth region and Marissa Walter served the Kentville region. Good job team!

Hindsight the only Black-owned firm and one of only five companies in Nova Scotia licensed to do Energy Advising.

BBI in partnership with Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Management is currently offering a new scholarship for the Corporate Residency MBA program at the Rowe School of Business.

The $10,000 renewable scholarship will be awarded annually to a Nova Scotian resident of African descent.

The objective of this scholarship is to support access for young African Nova Scotians to advanced business education and training so they can help build a more competitive and stronger Black business sector in Nova Scotia. Don’t miss out, apply today!

BIJ staff members collaborated with the Black Basketball Association to showcase youth businesses at the final game of the tournament at St. Mary’s University on May 19th. Thirteen young entrepreneurs operating five businesses learned about entrepreneurship by running a business for a day. ``It was fun, exciting and most of all motivated me to start my own business`` - Roddy DeLeon.

BBI assisted with the process for Hindsight Infrared Services Inc. (owned and operated by Charles Adams) in signing an Energy Advisor Contract Agreement with Nova Scotia Home Builders Association (NSHBA) on September 20th. This makes

BBI collaborated with Progress Media to produce a 15 page spread (page 137-152) in the 20th anniversary edition of the Progress 101 magazine.

This section featured Black-owned businesses, cultural tourism and youth entrepreneurship and mentorship.

BBI conducted a successful two and a half-day Introduction to Entrepreneurship training program for the Cumberland African Nova Scotian Association (CANSA) in Amherst. Ten people attended including community youth and staff. “What I found most valuable in the workshop was learning how to open my own business and what I need to do” – Participant.

BIJ hosted its annual fundraising Golf Tournament on September 26th.

This was the best year ever. Funds

will be invested in empowering youth through entrepreneurship. Join the fun again in September 2014.

In partnership with funders including Economic and Rural Development and Tourism and Labour and Advanced Education, BBI has secured $577,083.45 in training funds to help firms build skills and capacity to grow and compete.

In a new partnership with David Upton and CBDC Bluewater, the BIJ/RBDM team have supported five youth to secure Students in Business loans. If you are a student or know a student who wants to start a business, give Rodney Small a call at 476-9764.

BBI has disbursed 10 business loans at a total amount of $203,505 and leveraged $197,000 through collaboration with other lending partners. We are currently collaborating with the CBDCs association to host joint information sessions in several regions.

A successful Constructing the Future graduation took place at the Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC – Leeds Street) on August 27th where 10 out of 15 participants graduated.

Community and government partners, stakeholders and family member, along with BBI staff, attended. “CTF opened many doors for me. The program introduced me to various construction related trades as now I am enrolled at NSCC in the Plumbing Program” – Khothatso Mokoena 8 ...

by: Emily Rendell-Watson

House of

Auto Details David and Natalie Wilson, Owners

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Photo contributed

T

The waiting room of House of Auto Details is bright, clean and quint-

essentially anti-garage, more like an upscale car spa than a garage.

“We call it the anti-garage because it doesn’t look like any of the garages we’ve been in. It’s fresh. I find so many garages you walk in and the customer area seems like an afterthought, it’s not the main priority,” say owners David and Natalie Wilson.

After working in upscale dental practices in New York for 15 years, Natalie wanted to emulate some of the things people responded to in New York at House of Auto Details.

be an excellent opportunity to see what we could do in terms of being in business for ourselves,” says Natalie, who believes that starting House of Details has fulfilled David’s passion.

“His dream is that he could drive a new car every week. I said, ‘Well your dream has come true.

You drive a new car every day.

Porsches, Toyotas, Minis, Land Rovers’.”

David, who is a Dupont Cromax Pro Qualified Refinisher, began working on cars when he was a child at his father’s garage.

“People respond to being in an atmosphere where they feel like they are being taken care of. Every car that comes into our care, we go out and talk to the customer, whether it’s raining or whatever, we go outside and chat with them about what their concerns are. It’s about what they want and catering to them.”

“My father’s body shop was walking distance from my house.

I started painting my Tonka trucks as soon as I could hold a paint gun.

It’s just in my DNA. It’s the final product that is always the drive.

It’s also sometimes the challenge, we can get cars in that are really gross,” says David. “We’ve had a car that was maggot-infested. I was checking the carpet to see if it was wet and I pulled it up and there were maggots. The customer had spilled milk.”

House of Auto Details opened in June 2013 with financial and other support from the Black Business Initiative.

Both agree that it’s not necessarily about the money. Instead, even if it costs more, their aim is to clean the car and make it look brand new.

“I always eventually wanted to work for myself, but David got laid off and I had been working as volunteer dean at Sandy Lake Academy.

When the opportunity to get into the Centre for Entrepreneurship Education and Development (CEED) program came by chance, we decided to think about it, and as we got more details we thought it would

“It’s about providing a service that matches the way we look,” says Natalie, who has noticed that this approach has drawn a wide variety of customers.

“We had a customer come in during August who has a Porsche SUV. He came in and said that he usually takes his car to the Porsche

dealership but he wanted to give us a try. He said if he liked us he would bring his other car in. He came, he brought in his Porsche, we cleaned it for him and he was absolutely impressed with our service. He dropped off his Hummer later the same day,” says Natalie, noting that the customer was particularly impressed with their professionalism and wide variety of services.

House of Auto Details offers customers a number of unique services, including cleaning car seats and strollers using only steam and environmentally friendly products. They also offer a service called “While you were sleeping.”

Customers who can’t do without their car during the day have the option of dropping it off at night and picking it up the next morning.

Although the service requires more work related to scheduling, the Wilsons agree that it is necessary to offer something new when opening a new business.

As House of Auto Details continues to grow, the Wilsons are looking at partnering with the CEED Second Chance Program, an initiative for people who have been involved with the law. The Wilsons hope to develop apprenticeships where people going through the program would learn how to auto detail, and work with customers.

House of Auto Details David and Natalie Wilson 9 Symonds Road, Bedford, NS (entrance is located on the Hammonds Plains Road) W: www.houseofautodetails.ca E: info@houseofautodetails.ca T: 902-404-1500 10 ...

Trailblazers

2013 Progress Women of Excellence

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On November 6, 2013 two women from the African Nova Scotian community were recognized with a Women of Excellence award during a dinner ceremony held at the World Trade and Convention Centre in Halifax

Shauntay Grant Shauntay Grant was the recipient of the Arts and Culture Award. This award is given to ‘Women or groups of women who make a significant, professional contribution to the development, preservation or appreciation of the visual or performing arts, which enrich the cultural life of the community.’

Shauntay Grant is a writer, spoken word performer, broadcast journalist, and musician. She has shared her blend of poetry and music internationally at festivals and events, and as Halifax's third Poet Laureate she organized Canada's first national gathering of Canadian Poets Laureate in 2010.

Shauntay holds a Bachelor of Music degree from Dalhousie University and a Bachelor of Journalism degree from the University of King's College.

She regularly conducts arts workshops and performances for youth and adults at festivals, schools and community centres around the country.

She coordinates the Halifax-based arts-for-social-change performance series CommUNITY and her original works of poetry and music have been featured nationally on radio and television, and in several anthologies.

Shauntay was a Poet of Honour at the 2010 Canadian Festival of Spoken Word in Ottawa. Her children’s picturebook memoir Up Home (Nimbus 2008) won a 2009 Best Atlantic Published Book Award, and her stage play Steal Away Home won the 2011 Jury Award for Outstanding Drama at the Atlantic Fringe Festival. Shauntay is the recipient of a 2011 INSPIRE Award from Big Brothers Big Sisters. She serves on the board of Youth Voices of Nova Scotia, and she is a regional music host for CBC Radio in the Maritimes.

Jessica Bowden Jessica Bowden received the Entrepreneur and Innovator award, given to ‘Women or groups of women whose outstanding achievement and/ or innovation in entrepreneurial or technological endeavors has led to successful business operations and/or success in breaking into new markets or technological fields.’

Jessica Bowden is the founder and CEO of Teens Now Talk Magazine, the first publication written by teens for teens in Nova Scotia and throughout Atlantic Canada. She has spearheaded numerous unique and successful youth and community organizations and events such as the annual TNT Passport 2 You-th Success XPO and Hali-Cares Fashion Show.

As a youth advocate and entrepreneur for over 25 years, Jessica is also a sought after inspirational speaker, personal development facilitator, and

11 ...

international professional model. Her talents for translating youth and adults’ opinions, needs, values, and concerns into practical tools and programs for achieving positive self-worth and personal power have been demonstrated time and again.

Jessica has been recognized for her work in creating opportunities for youth and young adults including: • the Hope Success and Empowerment Award, presented by former Governor-General of Canada, Michaëlle Jean • the HRM Volunteer Award • Inducted into the Black Cultural Centre, Dr. W.P. Oliver Wall of Honor, for the outstanding contributions to the youth and communities • the Hali-Award, recognition for outstanding work with youth in the HRM, nominated by youth.

The BBI sends them each hearty congratulations and wishes them continued success in their chosen fields.

PRESENTS THE...

16TH ANNUAL MARCH 1, 2014

AFRICAN

NOVA SCOTIAN MUSIC AWARDS

& SHOW

W T C C HALIFAX, NS

ansma.com

FOR TICKETS & INFO: 1- 9 0 2 - 4 0 4 - 3 0 3 6 1- 9 0 2 - 4 3 4 - 9 9 0 9

AU UNIQUE TO TOURISM E EXPERIENCE.

Cultural Assets of Nova Scotia: African Nova Scotian Tourism Guide

Come

walk the lands that were settled by people of African descent who came to the Maritimes—African Americans as enslaved labour for the New England Planters in the 1760s, Black Loyalists between 1782 and 1784, Black refugees of the War of 1812, as Jamaican Maroons who were exiled from their home lands in 1796, and as Caribbean immigrants to Cape Breton in the 1890s. The descendants of these groups are recognized as the indigenous African Nova Scotian population.

Today, some 300 years later, there are festivals and gatherings throughout the year that acknowledge and celebrate the vibrant, rich African Nova Scotian culture. The guide provides contact information, directions and details on community events throughout the province, making the African Nova Scotian experience a tourism destination to remember and revisit.

For copies of the guide please contact: Office of African Nova Scotian Affairs 902.424.5555 ansa_newsletter@gov.ns.ca Black Business Initiative 902.426.8683 bbi@bbi.ca https://www.novascotia.com/en/home/planyourtrip/travel_guides/default.aspx

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by: Carol Dobson

Kalen’s Take Out

Marsha Peters, Owner

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Photo contributed

W

hile

food

trucks

may

be trendy –

and the subject of cable television shows – Nova Scotians have long had their own favourites, which usually appeared each summer, along the highways and byways of the province.

For years, Marsha Peters’ father had one – Bob’s Takeout started in a converted school bus turned into a chip wagon. So being in the food business was in her blood.

“When my kids were small, their friends kept telling me I should run a restaurant because I could cook pretty well any kind of food, even Chinese food and pizza,” she says.

She found a trailer that had been used as a pizza place, got the financing for it, with help from the BBI, equipped it with the equipment she needed, and painted it a cheery shade of orange.

It’s open six days a week – closed Mondays.

The next step was to find the perfect location, which she found on Highway 303 in Conway – on the main road leading into Digby, and across from the Car Quest shop. Friends of hers had been running a mobile takeout on that spot and had decided to close it down, so the space became hers. A recent addition of two bright orange flags, plus an orange-topped mobile sign helps draw customers in. The ‘Kalen’ in the name of her business is her young grandson.

Marsha Peters and Kalen As they say, timing is everything and she opened last year just before the beginning of the Wharf Rat Rally on the Labour Day weekend, when thousands of motorcyclists invade the town for the weekend.

She decided to stay open all winter although, until people realized that she was indeed open, things were slow.

“After Christmas, people generally don’t have much money,” she admits.

“But once they found out we were there, things got really, really busy.”

Reviews on Yelp talk about the hearty sizes of her portions; of the delicious batter on her scallops; the tenderness of her deep fried clams; the reasonable price of her local delicacy, rappie pie, and the ability to choose freshly made or frozen French fries. In fact a picture of her ‘Buddy Burger’ posted on the Yelp site quickly makes the reader’s mouth water.

“I have people who drive down from Windsor, from the North Mountain, and Berwick just to eat here,” she says.

This summer has been really busy and she enhanced her promotional efforts

by entering a float in the annual Scallop Days parade.

“We had Kalen on the float, we passed out menus, and he was throwing candy to people watching the parade,” she says. “That brought a lot of business, so it was awesome.”

While for many, Labour Day and the annual Wharf Rat Weekend, signal the end of summer, she says business has been steady during the month of September. Her plan is to stay open for most of the winter, with perhaps a month off to recharge and regroup when things get slow.

“When a customer tells me the food is great and thanks me, that means a lot,” Peters says. “Business is good and I’m wishing I’d done it sooner.

Kalen’s Take Out Marsha Peters 204 Highway 303 Conway Digby, NS B0V 1A0 T: (902) 308-9058

14 ...

People & Business on the Move

For the past five years, Cinera States has mentored young students in an after-school program that aims to increase the number of AfricanNova Scotians pursuing postsecondary education in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. This community work has led to a September placement at the Dalhousie Medical School for the North Preston resident.

East Preston’s Justine Colley has been named to Canada’s team for the women’s FIBA Americas Championship in Xalapa, Mexico.

The top-three finishers in the tournament qualify for the 2014 world championship.

Captain (ret’d) George Borden was the special guest speaker at this July’s 20th anniversary commemoration of the First World War’s No. 2 Construction Battalion, Canadian Expeditionary Force (19161920).

Congratulations to Mount Saint Vincent’s Anika Needham-Reece, who won the Science Atlantic Research Award – Best Poster Presentation at the 37th Science Atlantic Undergraduate Psychology for her unique project; The Effects of Text Language Knowledge and Visual Cues on Homophone Identification Skills.

The Africville Heritage Trust Society has awarded its first ever scholarship to a descendant of Africville. Rajean Boudreau of Dartmouth, NS was awarded $2,000 in recognition of her scholastic excellence and the Trust’s desire to support her in her studies, which she will continue in the Masters of Social Work program at Dalhousie University.

The scholarship, which is the result of money donated to the AHT from 15 ...

law firm Waterbury Newton, was awarded at the closing event of the Africville Genealogy Society’s 30th Annual Africville Reunion.

Also, at the reunion Dr. George Elliott Clarke read a portion of the draft play he is writing for the AHT. This play, The Roots of Africville, will tell the story of Black Refugees from the War of 1812 - why they left the United States and came to Nova Scotia and what they faced upon their arrival.

The play, will be performed in 2014 and is funded by the War of 1812 Commemoration Fund of the Dept. of Canadian Heritage.

The Africville Genealogy Society presented a Youth Basketball Tourney to celebrate the Reunion’s 30th Anniversary. Due to bad weather, the tourney was forced to move inside to the Community YMCA on August 3rd.

Lawrence Hill was named 2013’s CBC Massey lecturer. Hill, author of the Book of Negroes, talked about his new book, Blood: The Stuff of Life, on a cross-country lecture series. The book, Hill’s ninth, is now available. He gave a lecture on Oct. 17 at 8 p.m. at the Rebecca Cohn Auditorium, Dalhousie Arts Centre, Halifax. A documentary on “Blood: The Stuff of Life” will air on CBC Radio One’s Ideas from Nov. 11 to 15 at 9 p.m.

Shayln Williams has become the first African Nova Scotian woman to become an engineer.

Congratulations to Halifax boxer Tyson Cave, who successfully defended his super bantamweight Canadian Professional Boxing Commission International Title in August in a bout against Hungarian Gabor Molnar in Africville.

On September 12, a graduation ceremony was held at the Glace Bay Universal Negro Improvement Association for participants in a training program geared at helping seniors get back to work.

Participants enjoyed 12 weeks of training in areas including accounting, first aid, WHMIS, personality dimensions, food handling, food safety, traffic control, human rights, healthy lifestyles, stress management, and some seniors were even trained to use a forklift.

Officials from Black churches in the Halifax area have developed a community program they hope will help keep young people safe, assist them in making good life choices, boost youths’ self-esteem, and steer them far from nefarious adults.

The Rites of Passage mentorship project was unveiled this summer for youth between the ages of 11 and 18. The program began in October and operates twice monthly on Saturday mornings.

Trained adult volunteers guide participants through sessions on heritage and culture, health and sexuality, family matters, spirituality, and social graces.

For the fourth year in a row, Hockey Nova Scotia will hold the Black Youth Ice Hockey Initiative. The program is a partnership with the Black Ice Hockey and Sports Hall of Fame Society. The program provides boys and girls of African Canadian backgrounds the chance to experience ice hockey in a controlled, safe and fun on-ice environment. Starting October 26th, this year’s program consists of 18 on-ice weekly sessions coordinated by fully certified

Hockey Nova Scotia instructors along with community coaches.

Dr. Ingrid Waldron of the Dalhousie School of Nursing will be the principal investigator for the first Community-Driven Health Impact Assessment Tool. The project is focused on how race, gender, sexual orientation, income, education and disability affect the health of AfricanNova Scotians and aboriginal people in north-end Halifax and will help residents develop a tool to evaluate programs or services before they’re implemented to determine the impact they might have on the neighbourhood.

Ernest Simmonds, the custodian at Nelson Whynder School, purchased pink anti-bullying shirts for every pupil and staff member in the school for the school’s anti bullying assembly on Pink Shirt Day in September.

RCMP Const. Darren Sylvester was the winner of the 26th annual Const.

Jonathan Skeete Memorial Fun Run held in Whitney Pier. Sylvester, from Membertou First Nation, finished in first place with a time of 19 minutes 59 seconds, becoming the first RCMP officer to win the race in its 26-year history. The race is named in honour of Const. Jonathan Skeete, the first indigenous African Nova Scotian from Cape Breton Island to be recruited by the RCMP. Congratulations to Ruth Holmes Whitehead on the launch of her new book, “Black Loyalists”, in June.

Isabelle Chase, of the Northern Region, placed first in the 2013 REP Provincial Spelling BEE on Saturday, May 25 at Mount Saint Vincent University. Second place honours went to Maggie Andrew and third

place to Jaziah Sparks-Clyke, both of the Dartmouth region. 4-yearold Ahnaleigh Simmonds received a standing ovation for her reading of the Marva Collins' Creed.

The 40th Anniversary of the Apex Invitational Golf Golf Tournament was held at the Truro Golf and Country Club on August 2nd and 3rd; attracting more than 120 golfers from across North America. Since 2000, the Apex Invitational Golf Association, in partnership with Investors Group Financial Services and Pye Chevrolet Buick GMC Ltd., has issued 67 scholarships totalling $43,250 to young Black Colchester County students for higher learning.

The launch of Gloria Wesley’s latest book, “If This is Freedom”, was held on Thursday, September 19 at the Halifax North Library.

Pat Watson (jazz/gospel singer) and John Bird (keyboard) performed for the Tunes at Noon – Alderney Landing in Dartmouth in August.

There was also an evening performance the same day with Dr. Henry Bishop, Dave Harrison and the Imoja Diversity Drummers, and the Hallelujah Praise Choir.

These events were part of Alderney Landing's summer concert series and a tribute to Nova Scotia's 1812 Refugees.

The Chronicle Herald is running a series featuring Nova Scotians who have immigrated to this province, under the title of “Nova Scotia – A to Z”. The profile for letter ‘D’ was Henry Bonilla, who is from the Dominican Republic. Julianna Burgesson, formerly of Ghana was profiled under letter ‘G” while Patricia Wilson, from Jamaica was the profile for letter ‘J’.

16 ...

by: Carol Dobson

17 ...

W

hen Craig McIntyre of Exit Realty began working in real estate, he was one of only a small number of Black Nova Scotians in the field.

from out west from people who wanted to come home. Some of them did, but they’re now returning out west because not much has happened yet and they’ve lost hope.”

“There were only about three of us and there was a perception that it was a ‘white man’s world’,” he says. “I thought, if they can do it, I can do it, and it’s nice to see many more who have followed us since then.”

Exit Realty’s Shay Murphy chose it as one of two career options. “I was either going to be a police officer or a realtor,” she says. “I wanted to have time to spend with my two kids. I grew up in

Craig McIntyre Exit Realty

With Halifax becoming so much more ethnically diverse in the past few years, he’s noticed an increase in agents from Chinese- and Arabic-speaking backgrounds who proudly list those language skills on their business cards.

He got into real estate himself after a poor experience selling his own home.

It had been listed for several months with a real estate agent he describes as doing “an awful job.” When he shifted agents, the house was sold before the sign was erected on his property. That cinched the deal for him.

One reason many look at real estate as a viable career is the fact that there is freedom to choose when and how much you work.

“When I first got into this in 2008, it was a strong buyer’s market but it’s now changed to a seller’s market and probably will stay that way for the next several months. When the ship deal was announced, I had all kinds of phone calls

Shay Murphy Exit Realty

Mulgrave Park and I always liked to help people, so this was a way to establish a good business and make the process easy for people who wanted to achieve their goal of owning a home.”

She got her real estate license two years ago and carries out a lot of her business in the Portland Estates/ Portland Hills area of Dartmouth. That’s where she lives and finds that it’s an ideal neighbourhood for young families, as it’s a family oriented community with schools and other amenities close by, yet conveniently located minutes from downtown or the highway to the airport.

“I love the flexibility because I can look after my kids and schedule my work for evenings and weekends,” she says.

“I’m busy – closed four houses last week alone.”

Compared to Murphy, Kelli Tynes Harrington of Royal Lepage Atlantic is a veteran. She made the career switch after she retired as a flight attendant,

so she could also spend time with her family.

“I got into it just as we sold our first house,” she says. “The market has grown quickly since then.”

She says that real estate is an industry which has a high turnover – people come in, try it for a few years and then move on to someone else. Her

Kelli TynesHarrington Royal Lepage

approach, which has served her over the past decade, is to look at it as a business where building relationships with clients is as important as the actual sales themselves. It’s also a market that fluctuates between a buyer’s one and a seller’s one.

“There’s a lot of product on the market right now and some of it has been there for a long time,” Tamuno Cookey of Royal LePage says. “If interest rates go up, then house prices may end up going down. So, when people are looking at buying a house, they have a choice of whether to make their decision based on the price of the house or the rate of interest they are going to be paying.”

Cookey himself combines two careers – first as a real estate agent and secondly as a property manager. He bought his first property after returning from teaching English in Korea and transitioned into the real estate field at the same time.

Today, in addition to selling properties all over the Halifax Regional Municipality, continued on page 19

18 ...

of pace, a more flexible lifestyle and a potential for greater earnings.

“I love it because I have more time to spend with my family,” he says. “I’m

Tamuno Cookey Royal Lepage

he says he also manages 15 “doors” or income properties.

Another realtor who is transitioning into the field full-time is Christian Bailey of Sutton Realty. He’s counting down the days until his release from the Royal Canadian Navy in December. Currently he’s an electrical engineer on board HMCS St. John’s, and is selling real estate not only in Halifax but in New Brunswick and the United States.

“I just flipped a house in Atlanta,” he says. “I’m involved with the HRM (investment club) which is a great networking organization serving a group

Chris Peters Exit Realty

tending to work a lot in my own back yard of Eastern Passage and Cow Bay. This is a fairly transient population with lots of military people moving in and out. There are also some great new developments – most homes are split entry with three bedrooms and one and a half baths. I’m also seeing a growth in second level homes – where people are upsizing. There are a lot of positive trends in this area and the whole demographic is changing.”

Halifax’s North End is a prime spot for people looking for new homes. Tunde Balogen of Re/Max Nova Scotia has been selling real estate here for the past year.

Christian Bailey Sutton Reality

of real estate investors. It’s a great place to network and learn about the field – that’s where I’ve gotten everything I needed to start in this business.”

Chris Peters, who works for Exit Realty in the Eastern Passage area, also made the transition from another career into real estate. He worked in the telecom industry for many years and made the switch because he wanted a change

19 ...

“It’s become a trendy area, with lots of art and cultural things happening here, and I think it will be the new downtown within a decade,” Balogen says. “The

Tunde Balogen Re/Max NS

North End is the best part of Halifax for those who want to work here and live here, which is why I tend to list and sell houses here.”

His words are echoed by Dale Swift, who is also with Re/Max. Swift not only sells home but also owns several apartment buildings and likes to engage in flipping homes as well, so he calls himself an entrepreneur/investor as well as a real estate agent. He is also committed to helping people, especially in the North End, see how they can organize their finances so that they too can own their own homes.

Dale Swift

Re/Max NS “I spend a lot of time encouraging more people to get out of renting and into owning their own homes, it’s one of my pet projects,” he says. “I have a structure that I go over with clients to show them how they can become home owners. After all, we live in one of the best places to be in Canada – we have everything here we need.”

Linda Williams works for Coldwell Banker Associates Real Estate in Lower Sackville.

A new realtor, Linda recently passed the Nova Scotia Association of Real Estate exam and has just been an agent for three months. “I am working with an excellent team with lots of good support and experience”, says Linda about the company she works for that

has been in the business for 110 years.

A retired business analyst from Bell Aliant and a master hair dresser, she recently finally realized her dream of becoming a real estate agent and hasn’t looked back. A few of Linda’s specialties include resale, new construction, condominiums and investment properties. “I want to make them feel like long term friends not clients – give them superior service and to go above and beyond their expectations.”

“The North End is the best part of Halifax for those who want to work here and live here, which is why I tend to list and sell houses here.”

- Tunde Balogen Re/Max Nova Scotia

Event though she’s new to the business she says, whether it’s a sellers or buyers market, there are no limits for growth. And her growth includes not only on the job experience but she says continuing education is important for success. She is taking online courses through Coldwell Banker University that includes technology tools and apps, photography. “Coupled with a good attitude and superior work ethic I know I will realize fantastic rewards.”

Linda Williams Coldwell Banker

The final agent in this story, Lisa Coates, uses a different approach than her male counterparts. She focuses much of her work on female clientele – “alpha females,” including single women who want to own their own homes and women who are the primary decision makers in their home because their partners are often away serving in the military or have jobs that continued on page 23

20 ...

Jones was a People’s Champion

by: Sherri Borden Colley The Chronicle Herald

Danny Abriel, Dalhousie University

“The eyes which have seen the mountains are not moved by valleys” — African proverb (Swahili)

W

hen Burnley (Rocky) Jones saw mountains before him, he climbed them. And when he was forced into valleys, he was not shaken.

Neither mountains nor valleys intimidated Rocky.

The overt discrimination he had experienced for the first time at age 12 in his hometown of Truro, when a pool hall manager had refused to let him play pool because he was black, prepared him for those mountains and valleys. That experience and many others led him to dedicate his life to fighting for human rights.

21 ...

My 90-year-old father who, to this day, still refers to himself as “coloured,” encountered similar racism. As a young man growing up in New Glasgow, he was unable to get his hair cut at barbershops, could not eat in white restaurants and was forced to sit in the upstairs section to watch a movie at the Roseland Theatre.

Because of a common experience with racial discrimination, it was not difficult for me and others from marginalized communities across Nova Scotia to connect with Rocky.

My dad rarely spoke of those painful experiences.

When Rocky spoke, people listened and results followed. His words mattered.

But, with consistent passion and determination for change, Rocky did.

And he never wavered from speaking the truth, even if that meant rocking the boat.

He was a pioneer who fought for the rights of those who could not fight or could not speak for themselves.

“Rocky believed in justice, equity, and action,” Patti Doyle-Bedwell, director of the Dalhousie University’s Transition Year Program (TYP) for

black and native students, wrote in a Facebook post one day after Rocky’s July 29 death.

But at the same time, he often received harsh criticism from both the black and white communities for his sometimes controversial stances.

Rocky was not afraid of speaking out against racist establishments that continuously hindered disenfranchised people from advancing, even when it involved the government, the education system or police.

Archy Beals, a TYP alumnus, called Rocky “the voice of reason in an unreasonable world.”

Commendably, Rocky was also just as willing to point out faults in his own community. Rocky spoke the truth about the black community, even when that truth was uncomfortable.

I remember when I interviewed Rocky in March 2013 about a provincial black family meeting he organized. He spoke about our community being in crisis because of the legacy of sexual, physical and emotional abuse within our community, high prison rates and difficulties for black students in the educational system.

he told me how proud he was of me for continuing to report stories about the African Nova Scotian community.

With this type of encouragement and motivation coming from one of Nova Scotia’s most profound leaders, this was not a difficult task.

I, for one, am glad we had one of our most passionate voices and community elders still pounding the pavement in this struggle for access and equality. As a younger generation, we needed his wisdom and guidance.

and Mi’kmaq communities back in 1970 in establishing the TYP — a one-year university access program at Dalhousie University for black and aboriginal students — that I was given the opportunity to pursue a four-year journalism degree at the

Through his example, Rocky taught me lessons that will resonate with me for In a conversation I had with Rocky a lifetime. earlier this year, I remember him saying that he could not believe that, at his I was proud to call him one of my black age, he was still in the struggle, fighting leaders. many of the same battles he had fought It was because of the vision of Rocky in past decades. and a few other leaders in the black

Whenever I met Rocky on the street,

continued on page 24

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Realtors

continued from page 20

Lisa Coates

Sutton Realty take them away from home for long periods of time.

Coates is a second generation realtor, who moved from Boston to Nova Scotia at the height of the downturn in the U.S. economy.

23 ...

“The industry was highly competitive in Massachusetts, with 45,000 agents compared to only 1,100 here in the HRM,” Coates says. It was a good decision and she is ranked within the top 20 agents in sales for the first half of 2013.

taking pictures of things that catch her eye around the city and keeping those images in a gallery so that when someone asks her about a particular event or neighbourhood, she can produce pictures and, as they say, a picture is worth a thousand words.

In addition to being a realtor, she is also a certified Women Real Estate & Lifestyle Design Advisor. Her approach is one of finding the best home to suit her clients’ needs and lifestyles so that the homes they buy works perfectly for them.

She’s also known for her canine assistant, her “fur baby” Melanie.

“She’s been with me for four years and has a wonderful personality. If the weather’s bad and it’s not fit for her to be out, my clients will ask me, ‘where’s Mel’?”

Part of her success lies in her inherent curiosity. She can often be found

“If you are buying or selling you now know who to call,” ~ the BBI

Rocky Jones

continued from page 22

University of King’s College in 1993.

Prior to graduating from TYP, I had graduated from a radio and television broadcasting program at the Nova Scotia Community College. Still, I believed university was unattainable due to finances and other barriers.

Through TYP, a door I had thought would forever be closed was opened.

At the 40th anniversary of the TYP in November 2010, Rocky was presented with an honorary plaque for his contributions to the program. When he accepted, he was beyond humbled.

As he approached the podium, he was overcome with emotion as he looked out in the crowd and saw the fruits of his labour. Just before Rocky spoke, one by one, TYP alumni told about how they had gone on to become nurses, managers, lawyers, police officers,

journalists, university professors and business owners all across Canada as a result of the opportunity TYP had provided them.

Again, Rocky’s vision four decades ago played a key role in that success.

TYP was just one of Rocky’s babies.

He was also one of the founders of the Indigenous Blacks & Mi’kmaq law (IB & M) program at Dalhousie University.

Again, this program has produced many fine lawyers.

And more recently, in 2011, Rocky helped establish the Ujamaa Association, a not-for-profit organization formed to address socioeconomic challenges, educational disadvantages and high incarceration rates among African Nova Scotians.

And right up until his final breath, he was fighting for the future development of the former St. Patrick’s-Alexandra School site in inner-city Halifax.

In fact, after Rocky fully retired from practising law, he often joked that he was busier now than he had been while running his own law firm.

Community members, black inmates, universities, community leaders and reporters continued to call upon him.

He loved his community. And despite the racism he endured throughout his lifetime, he continued to love his province and his country. You, my friend, were a gift to Canada.

Thank you, Rocky, for setting an example through your activism, leadership, mentorship and generosity.

Examples have children. So, in honour of Rocky, let each one of us continue to carry the torch that he endlessly carried in his fight for social justice and equality.

Originally published in the Chronicle Herald, July 30, 2013. Used by Permission

24 ...

by: Emily Rendell-Watson

Illville

International Clothing Dennis Wright, Owner

25 ...

Paul Adams

W

hen

Dennis

Wright

was

given

the

opportunity to open Illville International Clothing he dropped everything.

Wright was selling his designs out of Catch A Look Clothing and Barber Shop in Sackville, while studying as a full time paralegal student at Success College in early 2013.

“Catch A Look was the original location that I sold my product. When they opened up the second location [in Bayer’s Lake Business Park], they had the space and offered me the opportunity to have my own boutique,” says Wright.

“I was planning on starting a career in the legal field. Right when I was about to get my diploma this opportunity presented itself and I decided that I wanted to do clothes and music for the rest of my life and nothing else. I had to drop everything I was doing and make this store my number one priority,” says Wright.

Although he still shares the location, Wright has expanded his store from one rack to selling children’s and infant clothing, accessories, and ladies underwear-which he says is a popular seller.

“I’ve also started to sell people’s artwork. I support graffiti artists like Fuze, I have a lot of his work in my store. I also sell Tara Taylor’s artwork.

She’s from East Preston. Tara does polymer portraits as well as earrings and necklaces,” says Wright, adding that he is proud that he can support the local art community.

Wright hopes to eventually compete with the international fashion community and see more people wearing his designs.

“It’s not about just printing t-shirts for people in Nova Scotia and making a quick buck. It’s this desire I have to put Nova Scotian fashion on the same level as other big cities,” says Wright.

“People definitely seem to like what I do, they seem to appreciate that Nova Scotia has a brand of its own now in the fashion world. I think it has inspired other people to start their own companies and get into fashion in Nova Scotia.”

Illville’s most popular design is “I’m so Scotian”, due to its ability to represent Nova Scotia pride.

When the idea was introduced to him

by Todd White, Wright knew he had the ability to make the design popular.

“I had an idea to write a song called ‘I’m so Scotian’, and I made a music video putting the shirts in the video.

From there it just took off.”

Although Wright has had success, it hasn’t been an easy journey.

“There was a time when I was delivering clothes everywhere in the HRM and my vehicle had no heat and it was the middle of winter. People were very supportive of what I was doing and seemed to appreciate it. Even when times were hard, that made it a little easier,” says Wright.

The name of the clothing store, Illville, comes from the community, he was raised in Beechville.

“A lot of the kids from the area recognize the store name and me.

I think that, that gives them hope and that it inspires them to feel like they can do something bigger than I have done,” says Wright, who moved to Beechville with his grandparents at a young age.

“Illville is for everybody. There’s an Illville everywhere, and there’s a little bit of Illville in everyone. When I came up with the name it was because me and the guys in my community were the best rappers. We were the sickest at what we did. I have recognized in traveling that there are people who think similarly about themselves. If you break it down, it’s the feeling of being the best at what you do. There are people who think that everywhere.”

In addition to running Illville International Clothing, Wright has performed in the United States and Canada under the rap name ‘Hellafactz’.

Although he has not performed in several years, Wright hopes to eventually get Illville International Clothing to the point where he can spend more time on his music. Above all, Wright believes it is important to remain active in all aspects of his life and work.

“My role is to be an artist, to keep contributing wherever I can. Being involved with the production, writing, recording. Remaining active in whatever I feel I want to do at the time."

Illville International Clothing Dennis Wright 174 Horseshoe Lake Dr., Halifax, NS T: 902-420-4553 www.hellafactz.org/store 26 ...

by: Emily Rendell-Watson

Smart Smiles Dental Hygiene Olu Brown, Owner

27 ...

Photo contributed

O

lu Brown never went to the dentist as a child, so

her first visit at 18 came as a shock.

Brown, founder and owner of Smart Smiles Dental Hygiene, says that the majority of her patients come from low-income families and have a fear of the dentist.

“There should be facilities in the area where you just go and get your teeth cleaned. Not everyone can afford or wants x-rays and a dental exam or to know about their issues.

I can deliver that message in a more at ease environment,” says Brown, who has been working on her own since dental hygienists became selfregulated in 2009, the year Brown graduated.

Brown’s clinic has been both stationary and mobile since opening on July 11, 2011. Her stationary clinic is located in the Clayfield Denture Clinic on Novalea Drive in Halifax and when mobile care is needed, Brown packs up her mobile unit, which consists of a suitcase of dental instruments and a chair that unfolds.

“The whole reason hygienists fought for independence and self-regulation was to fill in the gap. There’s a huge gap in treatment where there are certain special-needs groups that have obstacles when it comes to accessing care. Not just in the dental field but in every aspect. So one of the things to solve this was alternative practice,” says Brown, who took a course at Dalhousie on alternative practice settings that included a mobile work placement at Mount Hope in Dartmouth.

Since opening Smart Smiles, Brown has had several people come in who had never had their teeth cleaned before.

“When you sit [people] up and give them the mirror and they no longer see the stain or the calculus looking back at them they are just so overwhelmed.”

“There should be facilities in the area where you just go and get your teeth cleaned. Not everyone can afford or wants x-rays and a dental exam or to know about their issues.

I can deliver that message in a more at ease environment,” Brown believes that access to dental care should not be limited to those who can afford to see a dentist.

“I do oral hygiene day in my community, where I give out toothbrushes, toothpaste and floss.

I try to do them every four months.

I set up a chair and do some quick assessments, and I do all of that for free.”

“Its great to do things for other people. When I was a kid, I was

a part of all these programs and other people helped me see things I wouldn’t have seen otherwise, so why not give back,” says Brown, acknowledging the importance of providing affordable dental care both to her customers and her community.

In the future, Brown is looking forward to bringing Smart Smiles to HomeBridge Youth Society.

HomeBridge, a facility that takes care of homeless youth, does so through a number of onsite services, including massage therapists and meal instructors. “I’m going to go in and teach them oral hygiene care and do their cleanings as well,” says Brown.

“I come from a low-income family and I know how hard it is. I know the needs. I know when you’re living paycheque to paycheque and you’re trying to spread that out and get to everything.”

For Brown, Smart Smiles fills in a gap in the market. The attention she is able to give to low-income families, youth and seniors through her mobile services is new and innovative, and Brown looks forward to exploring this further.

“It’s a different level of connecting with the clients. They really rely on you and trust your decisions and advice. [Working] for myself, I can see 80 patients in one day and I’ll be fine because it’s for me, it’s for them.

Smart Smiles Dental Hygiene Olu Brown 3542 Novalea Drive, Halifax, NS www.smartsmilesdh.com smartsmilesdentalhygiene@gmail.com T: (902) 830-6908 28 ...

BIJ GOLF TOURNAMENT

Out with &theAbout BBI

September 26, 2013

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Reverend Glen Gray, Robert Loppie, Dwayne Coyle, and Jason Vaillancourt

George P. Ash, Terry Clarke, Joe Parris and Tamuno Cookey

Lex Bizzeth, James Makonyere, Brad Barton, and Calvin Barton

Lyle Grant, Dwayne Saunders, Tony Stevens, and Travis Saunders

Milton Williams, Cristal Romero Fitzpatrick, Stu Lenehan, and Arnie Morris

Matthew R. Vandekieft, Valerie Corkum, Natasha Jackson, and Mike Southall

Thank you for your support for the 5th Annual Business is Jammin’ Charitable Golf Tournament.

These fundraising events help us deliver programming year round to empower youth through entrepreneurship.

Joel Marsman, Pamela Scott Crace, Peter Drakes and Ed Matwawana

29 ...

Constructing the Future Graduation 2013

During the ceremony, several graduates gave testimonials about their personal and positive experiences in the program.

“CTF was more than just an experience for me. It went above and beyond the construction sector and it was an opportunity that exceeded my Dalhousie Business Degree. I will open my own business,” said Renaldo Cleare.

More than 100 community and industry guests attened the event. Former Minister of Communities, Culture and Heritage Leonard Preyra also attended along with Colin Brothers, Halifax team leader and Jennifer Hollis, program officer from the Department of Labour and Advanced Education (LAE).

Sandra Watts Wilson and Shannon Chambers represented the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and David MacMillan, academic chair, Trades & Technology represented the Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC). Michael Wyse, CEO brought greetings on behalf of the BBI. After five years, CTF is still meeting its goal of graduating qualified and

Lou Gannon

On August 27, 2013, the Black Business Initiative (BBI) celebrated the accomplishments of 10 individuals who graduated from the Constructing the Future (CTF) program. The ceremony was held at the Nova Scotia Community College on Leeds Street in Halifax. Ten participants successfully graduated, and one student of the 15 found employment before graduation day.

Program coordinator, LAE representatives and graduates with the Hon. Leonard Preyra

hardworking individuals ready to enroll in NSCC or assume jobs in residential and commercial construction. Along with the student who found work prior to graduation; three others were hired following their last job placements.

Three graduates chose the Nova Scotia Community College as a next step after fulfilling CTF’s requirements.

One participant applied to Dexter Institute, two others are seeking employment and one is working on a business concept through BBI’s Business Is Jammin’ Program.

Joel Marsman, CTF program coordinator

These results could not be reached without the partnership of the Nova Scotia Department of Labour and Advanced Education, through which the CTF program is funded. This partnership continues to be beneficial to both government and the African Nova Scotian community.

Mike Wyse - BBI CEO

The Constructing the Future Program will maintain its commitment in assisting many more African Nova Scotians willing to acquire new skills and compete in Nova Scotia’s construction sector, as long as the successful partnership between the BBI, NSCC and LAE continues to grow and flourish. .

Joel Marsman, Khothatso Mokoena, Ed Matwawana and Mike Wyse

Colin Brothers, LAE Halifax team leader

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??????? ??????? Entrepreneur’s Tool Kit ???????

Are you a student or unemployed and thinking of starting a business? The ???????

Community Business Development Corporation (CBDC) has two ??????? programs that you can tap into. ??????? Self-Employment Benefits Students in Business (SIB) Program (SEB) ??????? ??????? ??????? ??????? ??????? ?????? ??????? ??????? ?????? ??????? ???????

For more information on the SEB program or the SIB contact: ?????? ??????? ?????? ?????? ??????

Ask the BBI

by: RBDM Team

Students in Business targets students who are interested in creating and operating fulltime and/or part-time businesses.

If you are unemployed and want to create a job for yourself by starting your own business, the Self-Employment program can help. This program offers both financial help and entrepreneurial support to eligible individuals.

The program offers a maximum of $5,000 in loan assistance per business. SIB is an initiative of the Nova Scotia Association of Community Business Development Corporations, funded by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation, and Nova Scotia Economic and Rural Development and Tourism.

Eligibility

To be eligible, you must be unemployed and thinking about starting a new business to create a job for yourself. You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident legally entitled to work in Canada. As well, you must meet one of the following conditions:

Eligibility

• have a current Employment Insurance (EI) claim • have had an EI claim that ended within the last three years •

have had an EI claim for maternity or parental benefits within the past five years, then remained out of the job market to care for a newborn or newly adopted child, and now want to re-enter the labour force.

• be a full-time student who has passed your 15th birthday but has not reached your 35th birthday • attend, or plan to attend, high school or a recognized post-secondary educational institution in the next year • be a resident of Nova Scotia for six consecutive months prior to applying.

Erinn Smith

Nova Scotia Association of CBDCs 139 Park Road, Unit 1 Elmsdale, Nova Scotia B2S 2L3 Phone: (902) 883-4798 E-mail: erinn.smith@cbdc.ca

BBI is working in partnership with the Community Business Development Corporations to deliver information sessions on the SEB, SIB and loan programs that the CBDCs offer. For more information on the sessions please contact BBI. 31 ...

decades now Achievement Junior Achievement has beenyouth the business leadingorganization youth business organization ForFor decades now Junior has been the leading in Canada.

With this

in Canada. With this in mind, Junior Achievement and Business is Jammin’ are the ideal partnership as they empower African Nova Scotian youth through entrepreneurship.

in mind, Junior Achievement and Business is Jammin’ are the ideal partnership as they empower African Nova Scotian youth through entrepreneurship.

Similar to Business is Jammin’, Junior Achievement focuses on three main pillars: Financial Literacy, Work Readiness and Entrepreneurship. Business is Jammin’ had the pleasure of speaking with a former Junior Achievement participant: Olivia McKinnon. Olivia is a young African Nova Scotian female who describes her experience with Junior Achievement as fun, inspiring and positive.

On an early Monday morning in August, we spoke to Olivia McKinnon and she shared many stories about her experience with Junior Achievement. In 2010, first semester, Olivia was invited to a Junior Achievement seminar at school.

Despite her initial concern regarding her school schedule, she sold organic lip balms in her first year of business and in her second year she developed marriage blankets.

Olivia has had success with her businesses. She quickly, realized the Work Readiness skills she gained from those experiences. As a result, Olivia acquired excellent leadership skills.

She is now going into her first year of university and says, “I was inspired by Junior Achievement to enroll into the Business program at St. Francis Xavier University.”

We never know the impact a program has on the lives of our youth; that is why it is imperative to continue supporting organizations like Junior Achievement.

Business is Jammin’, friend to Junior Achievement, hopes to have more stories like Olivia’s in the future.

Business is Jammin’ is a charitable organization that empowers youth through entrepreneurship. We work with young people through a range of entrepreneurial, educational, mentorship, and financial support programs to build business acumen and empower the leaders of tomorrow.

In the last decade we’ve helped inspire thousands of program participants to stay in school, start business ventures, and develop an exceptional level of professionalism for today’s workplace.

To learn how you can partner with BIJ for charitable sponsorship opportunities, please contact:

perkins.david@bbi.ns.ca 902-471-9237

About BIJ “Business for a Day” Program: “It was fun, exciting and most of all motivated me to start my own business” -Roddy DeLeon BIJ is a Registered Charity: 840066674RR0001

BIJ is a part of the BBI’s Composite Group of Companies

@BusinessIsJammin

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A commercial lease is a contract made by or on behalf of the owner of real property (“landlord”) and an individual or legal entity (“tenant”) for the use of the landlord’s real property for a business purpose.

Entering into a commercial lease is an important commitment that creates legal obligations that can impact the success of a business. Unlike residential leases, there is no statutory regime in Nova Scotia (or Canada) to protect the interests of tenants under commercial leases. Therefore, it would be wise that you review the financial and legal implications with your accounting and legal advisors prior to executing a commercial lease agreement, or an offer to lease. Ten factors that should be considered are briefly discussed below and in the next column of The Law and Your Business.

The Law & Your Business

Leasing Basics: Ten Things to consider before entering into a Commercial Lease (Part 1 of 2)

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1. Offer to Lease: Some landlords require prospective tenants to execute an offer to lease, signifying their acceptance of certain key terms that will be formalized in the lease agreement. The offer to lease is binding and usually requires the tenant to pay a non-refundable deposit at the time of signing. The tenant will want all or part of the deposit to be refundable if a lease agreement is not ultimately entered into for reasons beyond the tenant’s control. The offer to lease will normally stipulate that the tenant agrees to execute a formal lease agreement in the landlord’s standard form within a specified timeframe. Standard form leases leave little or no room for negotiation and are typically drafted heavily in favour of the landlord. As such, the tenant should make every effort to ensure all lease terms essential to the tenant are incorporated into the offer to lease.

2. Due Diligence: It is important that you get the answers to a variety of questions prior to forming a landlord and tenant relationship. Examples of such questions include: (a) Who is the landlord? Are you dealing with the owner of the property, an agent of the owner, or perhaps a tenant who is looking to sublet? (b) Does the owner have good title to the property? (c) Is the landlord a financially viable legal entity that is registered to carry on business in Nova Scotia? (d) Is the type of business you plan to operate from the premises authorized by the applicable zoning by-laws.

33 ...

3. Leased Premises: The lease must accurately identify the premises to be leased by the tenant, including size and location. Will the lease cover all or part of the building? The tenant will want it stipulated in any and all lease documents that the landlord is to provide professional, certified measurements and copies of floor plans delineating the leased premises.

4. Term: How long will the lease be in place and when does the term start? Does the lease give the tenant the right to extend or renew the lease? If so upon what terms and conditions?

5. Rent: Rent is often one of the most significant expenses of any business that operates from leased premises. Under a net lease the tenant is required to pay (i) basic, minimum rent, usually expressed in a rate per square foot; (ii) additional rent that covers a portion of the landlord’s costs of operating the building; and (iii) percentage rent, requiring the tenant to pay the landlord a certain percentage of the tenant’s revenues. Prior to signing a lease or offer to lease, the tenant should understand how rent, operating expenses, taxes and other costs are defined and apportioned.

Disclaimer: The information presented above is for informative purposes only. All information provided is of a general nature and is not intended as legal advice and does not address the circumstances of any particular person or business.

Candace L. Thomas, Partner, Corporate Group, Stewart McKelvey, Barristers, Solicitors & Trademark Agents

January 15, 2014

Introduction for Construction Estimating 101

9:00am-2:00pm This course will provide learners with skills and knowledge related to estimating practices, and help them to understand the importance of estimates as one of the key steps in any construction job.

Bring Your Business to a New Audience

February 24-27, 2014

Building with Structural Insulated Panels (SIP)

This course will include the following: SIP design, tools of the trade, basic engineering, manufacturing SIP'S, SIP rigging and lifting, sealing the structure, SIP accessories, connection details, electrical preparation, working with the other trades, managing a crew efficiently, coordination of installation, cranes and folklifts, supporting the roof, design details, site fabrication, repair and replace, and business of being an installer.

For more details check out our website: www.blackbusinesseducation.com

For information on business opportunities with Encana’s Deep Panuke natural gas project in Nova Scotia’s offshore, visit the Deep Panuke pages on the Encana website at www.encana.com/deeppanuke/business

For information on career opportunities at Deep Panuke, visit the Careers section on Encana’s website or the Career Beacon website at www.careerbeacon.com

ADVERTISE in the next Issue of B2B For Advertising Information & Rates call: 902-426-2224 e-mail: bbi@bbi.ns.ca

www.encana.com twitter.com/encanacorp

facebook.com/encana

youtube.com/encana

34 ...

Welcome to the Black 2 Business - Coupon Page.

In each issue we include valuable discounts offered by a variety of businesses.

If you are interested in including a coupon, please contact us at bbi@bbi.ns.ca

Visit our new cafe and bring in this coupon for a

Free Medium Coffee!

We are located in the Soccer Nova Scotia Training Centre in Clayton Park 210 Thomas Raddall Drive Halifax, NS B3S 1K3 Contact Jonathan or Mary at www.kickscafe.ca manager@kickscafe.ca 902-293-4548

Free Coffee!

www.bagtrack.ca FREE bag tracking service for all airline travelers.

Never lose your checked bag again Please contact us for your free service

902-220-8219 trakbag@gmail.com

/bagtrack @bagtrack

Teens now Talk Magazine

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"CELEBRATING 10 YEARS IN BUSINESS"

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Be THe VOICe

At SLIC LASER Hair Removal Clinic

Call us today: (902) 492-2474 email: teensnowtalk@eastlink.ca

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84 Portland St. Dartmouth, NS 902-444-3830 www.facebook.com/BigLifeWholeFoods

3 Pinehill Drive 902-865-1516 Lr. Sackville, NS slic@eastlink.ca

One Year Office Subscription 4 Issues for as low as $9.99 Be SeeN

present this coupon at Big Life Cafe and receive a free small coffee when you purchase one of

Expiration: December 31, 2013

13-10-01 11:25 AM

Mention this ad to receive 10% off your first visit!

$5 off Your Purchase*

479 Main Street, Mahone Bay, NS, B0J 2E0  (902) 624 0882

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*Valid on purchases of $50 or more. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Expiry: Dec 31, 2013

The BBI is not responsible for any incidental or consequential damages that may be incurred by users of these Coupons. The BBI offers no guarantee of the information contained on these coupons. Please direct any questions or concerns regarding these offers directly to the coupon vendor.

November 1 - February 27

December 6 – 8

Halifax Rainmen Basketball

The Nutcracker

November 15 – 24

Francofestival

The program includes an African concert on November 16th, at 8 p.m.

Featuring: Edo King & Afro Nova Musica École secondaire du Sommet, 500 Larry Uteck Blvd., Bedford, NS For info: accueil@ccgh.ca 902-435-3244 ext. 201 www.ccgh.ca December 4

Nova Scotia Mass Choir Christmas Concert

Matthew’s Church, Halifax, NS 7:00 p.m.

Ticket: $10 adult; $5 children 12 and under Tickets and info: 902 499-1500 December 5th

Black Business Initiative’s Holiday Social Black Cultural Centre 10 Cherry Brook Road, Dartmouth, NS 5 – 7 p.m.

For info: bbi@bbi.ns.ca / 902-426-8683

Alderney Landing Theatre 2 Ochterloney St., Dartmouth, NS For info: 902-461-4698 / linda@alderneylanding.com December 14

Multicultural Holiday Gala

ADAM, United African Canadian Women’s Association (UACWA) Performances, silent auction, buffet and dance Mount St. Vincent University, Tickets: $25.00 For info: 902-403-3670 December 26 – 31

Tell It on the Mountain

Onelight Theatre An original re-telling of the Nativity with poetry by Clyde A. Wray and live gospel music performed by the Sanctified Brothers.

Alderney Landing, Dartmouth, NS For info: www.onelighttheatre.com January 26, 2014

Brides 2014

Atlantic Canada’s Largest Wedding Show

World Trade and Convention Centre 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. • Fee: $13.00 For info: 902-425-2787 • dfennell79@rogers.com www.halifaxbridalshow.com

To submit items for Community and Business events, please contact: Sharifa Upshaw (902) 426-8683; Fax: 426-8699 or email bbi@ bbi.ns.ca

You Are Cordially Invited to the Black Business Initiative’s Holiday Social.

The BBI Board of Directors and Staff look forward to seeing you.

Date: Thursday December 5, 2013 Location: Black Cultural Centre 10 Cherry Brook Rd, Dartmouth, NS Time: 5:00-7:00 p.m.

For more information, call: 902-426-8683 or e-mail: bbi@bbi.ns.ca

Community & Business Events

Rainmen Sales at 902-444-7246 x26 or Email: info@rainmenbasketball.ca

US

Fly non-stop year-round.

FlyHalifax.com

Fly non-stop to Philadelphia Thank You to the Sponsors of the

2013 BIJ Charitable Golf Tournment

Education and Early Childhood Development Hole Sponsors - Randy's Pizza & Donair • Enterprise Rent-A-Car • Compass Commercial Realty • Investors Group Financial Services Inc. • Canadian Bristish Consulting Limited • Budget Rental Car • Howe Law • Dan O'Brien of Design North • At Home Homecare • Tundae Balogun of RE/MAX Nova • Black Educators Association • Stephen Ash of B&A and Associates Insurance Agency Ltd. • Syd Collymore of Investors Group Individual Sponsors- Njabulo Nkala • Kerry Johnston • Michael Wyse • Greg Nazaire • Bruce Johnson Prize Sponsors- WestJet • A G Brown & Son Limited • O’Regan’s • Bell Mobility • Ernst & Young LLP • High Liner Foods Incorporated • Ambassatours Gray Line • Four Points by Sheraton Halifax • Advanced Screen Printing Embroidery & Promotions • Boston Pizza • Drobot Automotive Centre • SLIC Laser Hair Removal • Colby Wine Bar and Bistro • Culinary Wines • ADEPA Construction Management Inc. • Seaview Golf and Country Club • Delta Barrington • Floors Plus • Kent Building Supplies • Grandview Golf & Country Club

If undeliverable return to: The Black Business Initiative Centennial Building Suite 1201,1660 Hollis Street, Halifax, Nova Scotia B3J 1V7 Agreement No.

0040026687

numéro de convention

0040026687