Reporter with Victoria insert - DEC 6 2023

Increasing access to long-term care in Port Hawkesbury

by Drake Lowthers The Reporter drakelowthers@porthawkesburyreporter.com

PORT HAWKESBURY: The Port Hawkesbury Nursing Home will soon be replaced with a new, 96-room facility that will provide care to an additional 42 seniors.

“Port Hawkesbury is getting a new nursing home,” Deputy Premier Allan MacMaster, who is also the MLA for Inverness told a packed room at the nursing home, that resulted in thunderous applause. “This new facility will have private rooms for all 96 people. Those living and working in the home will enjoy a facility that’s bright, fresh, and spacious.”

Speaking on the Chisholm wing of the existing facility, it’s something that’s more modern, as it was built about a decade ago; however, the remaining two wings, he said, residents and caregivers alike, need a more modern facility.

“It takes time to build a nursing home, and for many years, none were built in this province,” MacMaster highlighted. “This home is still a few years away, but I will be doing my part to see it comes here as soon as it can. I know the importance of a new nursing home for Port Hawkesbury and what it means to people in surrounding communities.”

Noting there are individuals waiting for a spot to open at the nursing home, he advised

it’s not easy to leave your loved ones at home, but noted more are increasingly doing so.

“My hope is this new 96-room facility, will make that transition easier, that it will wrap its arms around any new resident to welcome them to their new home,” MacMaster said. “A home of laughter, joy, friendship, where life continues with perks, with meaning, and it shows all of us, what the dignity of our loved ones is all about.”

The announcement that seniors in the area will have access to new, modern longterm care rooms with the replacement and expansion of the local nursing home was made on Dec. 1.

“You can tell a lot about a society’s values by how they treat their most vulnerable citizens,” MacMaster said. “These new stateof-the-art long-term care facilities will provide homes where Nova Scotians who have spent their lives growing our province can spend their last years living with dignity and respect.”

The new home is part of the recent addition of 2,200 rooms to the province’s long-term care infrastructure plan. This plan expansion includes new long-term care homes that will add about 800 rooms to the long-term care system and the replacement of older homes with new, modern facilities that will have about 1,400 rooms.

Continued on page 21

care provided by 42 seniors.

Charges laid in Big Bras d’Or homicide, RCMP continue to locate second suspect

by Adam McNamara adammcn33@gmail.com

Editors note: This story has been updated since the printing of the Victoria Reporter

BIG BRAS D’OR – On Nov. 30, the Northeast RCMP Major Crime Unit charged Carolyn Ann Dermody with murder and indignity to human remains in relation to the homicide of Natasha Leroy, in Big Bras d’Or.

On Nov. 22, Victoria County District RCMP responded to a report of a possible homicide at a home on Old Route 5 in Big

Bras d’Or.

RCMP officers learned that 48-year-old Leroy, had disappeared and the circumstances around her disappearance were suspicious. The Nova Scotia Medical Examiner’s Office ruled Leroy’s death a homicide, a er remains were found in Victoria County by RCMP Police Dog Services on Nov. 29.

According to a release from the RCMP, investigators continue their efforts to locate a second suspect, a 28-year-old Big Bras d’Or man, who is believed to be in the Cape Breton Regional Municipality (CBRM).

The investigation has determined the incident was not

random and that the victim was known to Dermody and the male suspect.

Dermody has been remanded into custody and a er an initial court appearance in Sydney, arraignment is scheduled for Dec. 6, in Wagmatcook, where Dermody will appear by video.

The investigation is continuing and RCMP are asking anyone who has information about this incident to contact them at 902-896-5060. Should anyone want to remain anonymous, they can contact Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers toll free at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca.

Photo by Drake Lowthers.

Allan MacMaster announced a new, 96-room senior’s facility for Port Hawkesbury, which will increase the

Town of Port Hawkesbury hosts Santa Claus parade

Laureen Murphy named Celtic Shores Coastal Trail Volunteer of the Year

by Kathy McClusky

TROY: If you speak with Laureen Murphy for even a few minutes about the Celtic Shores Coastal Trail that runs continuously for 92-kilometres from Port Hastings to Inverness, you will quickly hear the enthusiasm in her voice and feel the contagious energy as she describes the trail and her experiences on it.

If you ask her about recently being selected Celtic Shores Coastal Trail Volunteer of the Year by Inverness County, you will quickly realize she is not one to accept the accolades that accompany the award without emphatically acknowledging the efforts of all the volunteers who work to maintain and improve the trail.

Murphy and her husband have called Antigonish their home for 40 years, but 17 years ago they had a home built in Troy on the property that belonged to Murphy’s grandmother. Wanting to re-connect with and get involved in her family’s community, she started volunteering with the trail group.

Her brother, Richard Beaton, is President of the Ceilidh Coastal Trail, the section that runs 22-kilometres from Port Hasting to Chisolm’s Brook (Long Point) just south of Judique on Cape Breton Island.

Troy is along this section of the trail and is where Murphy spends much of her summer months on her bike, their side-byside ATV, or on her fairly new to her, E-Bike.

Now a decade into donating her time and efforts, she was awarded by the county. She is a member of the executive committee and serves as secretary and marketing lead for the Celtic Shores Coastal Trail, the group that oversees all five sections of the trail.

From hosting fun runs on the trail, the first being in 2017 to celebrate Canada’s 150th anniversary, to organizing and being

the liaison with a company from Halifax that video-taped and recorded what it would be like to do a two-day cycling jaunt on the trail, to fund raising, Murphy has spent a lot of her time volunteering.

She has also fed and housed walkers she has seen on the trail at her property. On one occasion a couple of years ago on a cold, soon-to-be-dark May a ernoon, a hiker with a fiddle on his back came along.

“I hollered down to him and waved him to come up, it was too cold to be out. I thought he must have been local with the fiddle but he was from France,” Murphy recalled. “I gave him something to eat and he stayed over. He was so interested in Celtic music he said he was going to stop in

at the Celtic Interpretive Centre in Judique to learn more.”

The Ceilidh Coastal Trail is a Destination Trail (a blue route) having met required criteria and is another reason to be responsible to keep the trail looking nice and safe.

“Volunteers are out there all the time making sure the trail looks its best and the safety risk to users is kept as low as possible,” Murphy said. “The edges of the trail are bush-hogged so there is a clear line of sight at curves and edges, any potholes are filled in and graded and the ditches are kept clear. It’s all about water control.”

The affects of post-tropical storm Fiona meant a lot of damage on the trail, and had it not been for volunteers, including those who donated their own equipment to clean up the erosion, water damage and fallen trees on the trail.

Murphy said she didn’t know how long it would have taken to do the clean-up otherwise, noting the five sections share equipment used for mowing and digging but mentioned the use of local private equipment was greatly appreciated.

Of recent trail improvements she is excited about, one includes the installation of five bathrooms, one at each section of the trail. As well, the interpretive shelters have new roofs or are new and freshly painted with the green and yellow colours in the Ceilidh Coastal Trail logo.

Benches, picnic tables and even hammocks are provided along the route.

Signs designate the trail as “pack it in take it out” to encourage users to take responsibility for their own garbage, otherwise its up to volunteers to collect the garbage that’s le behind. The bathrooms are kept clean and hand wash is provided, at volunteers own personal cost.

Continued on page 3

Photos by Adam McNamara.

Besides Santa himself, the Grinch may have been everyone’s favorite person to see as he made an appearance on a oat during the Town of Port Hawkesbury’s Santa Claus parade.

A local family were all smiles as the Santa Claus parade inches on behind them.

Members of a local volunteer re department take

Making his appearance as the last oat during the Port a kesbury anta Claus parade, jolly ol’ Saint Nick was the man of the hour.

Photo contributed. Laureen Murphy was recently named the Celtic hores Coastal rail olunteer of the Year.

Village of St. Peter’s hosts annual tree lighting ceremony

by Adam McNamara adammcn33@gmail.com

ST. PETER’S: On Dec. 1, the downtown core of St. Peter’s was packed for a Christmas tree lighting celebration and Meghan Hayter, Clerk at the Village of St. Peter’s, said the event is one way of using the newly transformed space for people to gather.

The project to transform the former Irving lot which sat vacant for years was started in 2019 by the village and two other community organizations: the St. Peter’s Economic Development Organization and the Village on the Canal Organization.

“So, we had a couple of community meetings between the three groups and the general public, doing some brainstorming sessions toward figuring out what the general public felt would help improve the vibrancy of St. Peters village core,” Hayter said, explaining from those meetings it became obvious the centre of the village business area was in desperate need of upgrading.

“We had two vacant properties right at the main intersection, right in the middle of the business district that were not being used.”

The village procured the license for the lot from Irving and began looking for funding that was appropriate for their project. In 2023, the village was successful in attaining $50,000 in funding from Build Nova Scotia’s Community Led Placemaking program, which according to Build Nova Scotia’s website “supports the creation of public spaces that

benefit communities and invite everyone to participate, from ideas, to creation, and activation.”

The project is happening in two phases and the work they’ve done in Phase 1, leveled the

lot and allowed them to put a picnic table and benches there for people to use.

“What we wanted to do was to make an inclusive space in the centre of the village that everybody could use. We added some grass to

the space which helped,” Hayter said. “Tonight, we have our annual village tree lighting that we’re going to be holding on the lot. It’s just such a central location for us, we have the tree there and Santa comes and lights up the tree and we have the local elementary school children come over and sing.”

Residents from St. Peter’s and the surrounding communities packed the downtown core and after a group countdown the lights on the tree were lit at 6 p.m. After the lighting, Santa and Mrs. Claus greeted everyone, while different businesses came together to help out, handing out candy canes and donations were made to the local foodbank.

“There’s lots that we do during the tree lighting for community building,” Hayter said.

There’s also lots more which will be taking place at the new space, she said, noting they are still in the planning stages for Phase 2, but things are in motion.

“We’re planning on doing a gazebo, or stage of some sort that we would be able to use for live music or different entertainment,” Hayter said. “As well as some placemaking pieces.”

The plan is to carry the nautical theme of the town through this project, while creating a place to host events, which bring people together such as the tree lighting ceremony.

“We’re looking to be able to have that lot usable for events and different things that would draw people to the centre of the village,” Hayter said. “That’s the main goal.”

Everything, said Murphy, is done by volunteers, even the paperwork required to apply for grants from local organizations, the province, and the federal government. She said the organization would like to see a full-time paid position created by Inverness County to market and co-ordinate the administrative details.

Groups of cyclists have requested tour guide-like assistance on where to stay and eat for multi-day organized trips.

“We wonder if the county is missing out on opportunities and beneficial economic impacts,” Murphy said.

On a more personal note, she highlighted it’s unbelievable the people you meet on the trail.

“I find it so refreshing that so many people are interested in our culture and our music...the trail gives us an opportunity to showcase our area,” Murphy said “When the lobster boats are out checking the traps and you can watch them from the trail…it’s not a sight everyone sees.” If interested in becoming a volunteer on the Ceilidh Coastal Trail section, people are asked to contact Beaton at richardbeaton1@ gmail.com.

Kaitlin Burke,Maria Palma, andAidan Burke dressed up and visited the ichmond illa before sho ing up at the tree lighting and adding an even more festive feeling to the event.

n part, thanks to the funding from Build Nova cotia, the vacant lot which was bare and only really used as parking until ust this summer, is no transformed into a multi-purpose space to be used by the community

arden of ichmond County, manda Mombour uette as on hand helping sure the kids got a chance for photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Photos by Adam McNamara. he annual tree lighting ceremony in t Peter s took place on the transformed lot on the corner of Pepperell Street and Grenville Street.

Journey of a lifetime: Families impacted by dementia learn, socialize together in Guysborough

by Alec Bruce Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Guysborough Journal

GUYSBOROUGH: Dan Ryan knows the words to every song on his playlist.

Songs like “Danny Boy” and some Celtic ditties few others would recognize. He’s a big fan of Elton John and knows that man’s work like the back of his hand. Still, his wife Ursula Ryan claims, “He can’t find the rooms in his own house.”

The couple live in Guysborough, surrounded by the touchstones of a lifetime of devotion to each other, their friends and neighbours, the community, the slow grumbling sigh of the sea on shore.

“I know that sometimes he doesn’t know me,” the 68-year-old Ursula, says of her 72-year-old husband Dan, who was diagnosed with dementia in 2018. “I have a very positive attitude... It’s a very long journey.”

It’s a journey, she says, on which increasing numbers of people across Canada, in Nova Scotia, and right here are embarking. It’s also a journey she’s doing everything in her power to make easier for her and others in her community through the Guysborough & Area Dementia Support Group, which she founded five years ago.

“The numbers are really staggering, not just of [sufferers], but of the caregivers. It goes to the jobs, and the money that’s taken away [from people]. I mean, it’s absolutely incredible,” Ursula said “There’s the fear that’s out there, when you have a loved one diagnosed with dementia. When Dan was diagnosed, I couldn’t speak about it for a long time. What am I facing? What is he facing? What do I do? It’s really, really difficult to find resources and support.”

Her initial meeting attracted only eight people. Since then, her regular monthly get-togethers of family, friends, caregivers, and guest speakers routinely draw three times that many from as many as 15 communities across Guysborough County.

“We’ve had a doctor come in. We’ve had a local lawyer come in two or three times [to talk about] powers of attorney and wills,” Ursula said. “We have people from the nursing home come in. We’ve had a psychologist, a counsellor come in.”

ounded ve years ago by uysborough resident and caregiver Ursula yan, membership in the uysborough rea Dementia upport roup has increased dramatically hanks to her special memory cafe gatherings for su erers, family, and friends, so is public a areness of a gro ing social and health challenge

The effort has helped Ursula.

She’s also conducted five memory cafés, which treat everyone, including sufferers, to a true social event, including a meal, music, and dance. A recent one in November drew 96 guests.

“It probably took me a year to come to terms with [my situation],” she says. “But then, when I started telling my friends and taking a couple of courses online, I finally decided to go out into the community and see what I could do... The best thing is getting people together to talk about it... So, I just wanted these to be places where everyone felt safe and informed.”

Information, Ursula says, is too o en the missing piece of the puzzle.

Foodbank donation

The Alzheimer Society of Canada’s 2022 landmark study on dementia opened her eyes wide – both to the dimension of the problem and to its mitigation.

“It’s really important,” Ursula suggested.

Indeed, the document pulls no punches.

“In 2020, it was estimated that there were 597,000 individuals living with dementia in Canada. By 2030, we can expect this number will reach close to one million,” it reports. “In 2020, there were 350,000 care partners for people with dementia. If not much changes in the current trends, by 2050 the number of care partners for people living with dementia will increase to over one million...Given [this], the number of hours provided by family could reach almost 1.4 billion hours annually by 2050; the equivalent to over 690,000 full-time jobs.”

But there’s hopeful news, too.

“If we were able to improve prevention efforts for dementia and delay its onset across our population by one year, [this] could result in almost 500,000 fewer new cases by 2050. A 10-year delay could reduce the number of caregiving hours needed by almost one billion hours per year,” it read. “There are many things Canadians can do to reduce the impact of dementia. These include being physically and socially active; following a healthy diet; and challenging one’s brain by engaging in games, reading, learning new languages, hobbies, and skills.”

For Ursula, Dan, and other members of the Guysborough & Area Dementia Support Group, engagement is the key.

“Certainly, from my perspective, just working on increasing awareness and dissolving the stigma of dementia is one thing that we’re working on,” Ursula said. “But, you know, we have to have something in place [governmentally] that is going to help families who are going to be dealing with this on a 24hour basis for five, 10, 15, 20 years.”

Still, she stays positive.

“I have a lady who is elderly, who is older than me. She started coming to our meetings in January 2022. Her husband ended up dying about a year ago, but she still comes to every meeting and ever memory café,” Ursula said. “She doesn’t even live in this community, but she sees the value in this and wants to talk to other people. That’s how important this is. She wants to continue the journey with us.”

Help the RCMP nd Dominique Isadore

by

Drake Lowthers The Reporter drakelowthers@porthawkesburyreporter.com

WAGMATCOOK: Victoria County District RCMP are asking for the public’s assistance in locating 28-yearold Dominique Isadore.

Isadore was last seen in the community of Wagmatcook on November 22.

Isadore is described as 5-foot5, 130-pounds, has brown eyes, brown hair, and wears glasses.

“When someone goes missing, it has deep and farreaching impacts for the person and those who know them,” RCMP Public Information Officer Cst. Dominic Laflamma said. “We ask that people spread the word through social media respectfully.”

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Isadore is asked to contact Victoria County District RCMP at 902-295-2350. If someone wishes to remain anonymous, their asked to call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll free, at 1-800222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www. crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips App.

Photo contributed.

Photo contributed.

Members of the adult senior skate group stopped by the Port a kesbury ood Bank to deliver a donation on their behalf Pictured are ince ood, Catherine MacNeil, Mary ohnson, anice Decoste, Phillip uirk, Marlene Morrison, eraldine Parent, bby mith, Patsy Mooring, ita eefe, die raser

Photo contributed by RCMP. Dominique Isadore was last seen on Nov in agmatcook.

First Nation leader provides Mi’kmaw worldview of economic reconciliation

by Sam Laskaris Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Windspeaker.com

PAQTNKEK: Rose Paul has earned her share of praise and awards serving as the CEO of Bayside Development Corporation, the business arm of Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation.

And Paul doesn’t mind sharing the foundations of the corporation’s success.

She delivered a keynote address titled “What economic reconciliation looks like – rebuilding our Nations in line with Mi’kmaw worldview,” at the Indigenomics Bay Street Conference, which wrapped up in Toronto, Ont. on Nov. 23.

“Speaking the language of my ancestors, embedding it within the framework of our economic development plans, is to honor and revive the ways of our forebears, ensuring their voices and wisdom resonate in the present and guide our future,” Paul told the gathering. “Since the first settlers came to our lands, our world has been transformed in profound ways. These changes have deeply altered the landscapes we call home and have had lasting impacts on our communities and ways of life.”

Bayside Development Corporation has established a travel centre in the community, which includes a gas station, convenience store and several other businesses.

Paul also lobbied provincial and federal officials for years to build a highway interchange as portions of her First Nation had not been readily accessible for decades following the construction of the Trans-Canada Highway.

“For me and my Nation, governance and economic reconciliation are not static concepts, but a reawakening of our traditional laws. Our customs are not simply a set of rules,” she said. “They are a living testament to the process of reconciliation,

evolving from shared examples and models of conduct. Rooted in oral traditions, they reflect our daily life, encapsulating our shared experiences of hardship and joy. They are a celebration of our heritage, expressive in its nature, and deeply performative.”

She said Mi’kmaw customs have matured through centuries of oral storytelling, a cherished practice where every narrative shared is a strand in the tapestry of our collective identity.

“They hold the laughter and tears of our ancestors, their trials and triumphs,” Paul said. “And through them we celebrate our resilience, our culture, and our connection to this land, long before the first European footprints marked our soils.”

She said Paqtnkek’s economic development follows eight foundational principles.

These principles are Creation, Wisdom, Courage, Healing, Commitment to the Seven Generations,

Responsibility, The Way We Are, and Sustaining Ourselves, all of which, according to Paul, are sacred gi s.

“They teach us about the delicate balance of life, the harmony that must be maintained, and the responsibilities we hold as stewards of these precious resources,” she said. “In every economic initiative we undertake, we strive to honour these gi s, ensuring that our present actions nurture and preserve their sanctity for the generations yet to grace this world. This philosophy of living in harmony with and nurturing these fundamental elements of life is the bedrock upon which we build our economic future.”

Paul said these principles are purposely included in economic policies and initiatives.

“We are not only revitalizing our own community but also offering a model of development that is holistic, just, and deeply respectful of the intricate web of life,” she said. “This is the path we walk as Mi’kmaw, as stewards of our land, and as global citizens in an ever-changing world.”

Paul also said this is why it is important to think beyond the present.

“The world in which we engage economically is not a series of isolated islands but a vast interconnected ecosystem. Every decision we

make, every partnership we form, and every project we embark upon is evaluated through the lens of this deep interconnectedness,” she said. “Our economic practices are not just about ensuring the financial well-being of our people today. They are about maintaining ecological sanctity and ensuring the prosperity of those yet to walk this earth.”

Paul also highlighted the past decade has brought widespread awareness to the fact reconciliation is required, but added economic reconciliation is not something that can be achieved by just one party.

“It is a collaborative voyage that beckons all who reside in and cherish this land to join hands in solidarity. This journey calls for more than mere acknowledgment,” she said. “It demands active participation, a unification of efforts and aspirations. It is a path that requires courage to confront past injustices, wisdom to navigate through complexities, and a shared commitment to forge a future rooted in mutual respect and prosperity.”

The Indigenomics Bay Street Conference featured Indigenous leaders from the private and corporate sectors, government officials also attended the event, which included various presentations and panels related to Indigenous economics.

NOVA SCOTIA: Nova Scotians can share their ideas for the provincial budget during the province’s annual budget consultation.

“Our province is growing, and our government has been investing in transforming healthcare and advancing solutions for housing, the environment and the economy since the beginning of our mandate,” Finance and Treasury Board Minister Allan MacMaster said. “We’re asking Nova Scotians about what matters most to them as we create Budget 2024-25 and future budgets.”

MacMaster will release the next budget update later this month, however, as of September, the province’s revenue for the 2023-24 fiscal year is projected to be $14.6 billion, and expenses are projected to be $15.2 billion; the government is forecasting a deficit of $402.7 million.

The budget is the province’s roadmap for delivering programs and services for the upcoming year. It reflects government’s priorities and commitments, and it also outlines how government is going to pay for those programs and services, through taxes and borrowing.

The annual budget is also called the estimates because it is an estimate of how much money government will spend and

receive in the upcoming year. The budget also outlines the fiscal plan, which is the long-term projection of the province’s finances.

The budget cycle begins April 1 and ends the following March 31 and is introduced in the House of Assembly by the government.

“It reflects key government priorities and detailed choices about where to spend money and how to raise revenue,” a government website reads. “Pre-budget consultations and research and analysis help shape what’s in the budget.

As for how the public knows when the budget is on track, throughout the year, government checks in with the public to tell them if the roadmap is leading the province where it thought it would. In Nova Scotia, these are called forecast updates, and they occur usually in September, December and April.

“If revenue or expenses are off track, then adjustments can be made. A er the fiscal year is over, government produces documents that show where the budget was spent,” the website continued. “This is called public accounts, and it closes the books on the fiscal year.”

People can submit their suggestions by email at budget@novascotia.ca . They can also mail their submissions to the Department of Finance and Treasury Board or send them to their local MLA.

More information is available at: https:// novascotia.ca/budget-engagement/

The deadline for submissions is January 26.

Rose Paul.

Google and Canada Reach Agreement

Column by Nicole Fawcett

An agreement has been made between Google and the Government of Canada over the contentious Online News Act or Bill C-18. We don’t know all the details yet; however, it appears there will be an annual payout of approximately $100-million dollars to media outlets in Canada.

Bill C-18’s final regulatory language will let Google negotiate with a single group that represents media organizations, limiting its need to work with numerous individual outlets.

This is positive news for all of media across Canada, as it was getting very close to the deadline of Google’s threat to pull media links down in Canada.

What does this mean for The Reporter? Monetarily, not very much. What it does mean is that the work we do, the costs incurred in good journalism, are recognised. The importance of good journalism is appreciated.

Good journalism and community news provide a lot of things for the reader. For starters, accountability, stories are researched and developed to ensure the best information is provided. Stories are informative and unbiased, while providing information that is significant and relevant to those who it serves.

It can be entertaining and insightful, while also projecting a meaning.

One thing that good journalism is not, is free.

I would love to tell my printer and Canada Post that the news is free and therefore do not have to pay those

bills. I highly doubt the 20 people that are paid each month, our journalists, writers, columnists, admin, designer, bookkeeper, and delivery driver, would agree that their time should be free.

It costs, and it costs a lot, to produce good journalism and community news.

Reading many of the comments under the stories about the Google and Canada agreement, it is obvious that many people do not understand this simple fact. They do not understand what has been happening with media content in Canada and throughout the world.

Also, that many have no idea what Bil C-18 actually is.

It is extremely important that real journalism is accessible and that is why it is so important there has been an agreement made. With the flooding of misinformation, it is so very crucial that everyone has access to good, reliable journalism, on both a local and national level.

It is also important for any media organisation to survive, that the support we ask for is giving to the real media outlets and not those who are stealing the information and then profiting from it.

There are huge concerns with the advancement of AI, not only of the stealing of information, but of the accuracy of the information. I recently read an article by Jesselyn Cook, Huffpost, about rip off sites that are turning plagiarism into their businesses. Basically, they steal news

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

stories, run it through an AI program to change some of the words, and then claim it as their own.

An example is a headline with the name “Bill Nye the Science Guy”, became “Invoice Nye the Science Man.”

This may seem kind of funny, but the implications are huge.

First of all, they are literally stealing. Secondly, the integrity and information contained in the article are seriously compromised adding to the huge concerns of misinformation.

Some websites do not appear worried about plagiarism and simply take news stories from all available media and place it on their own website, calling themselves news sites. Don’t be fooled into thinking this is only a national problem, we have local sites which do exactly that.

Imagine creating, producing, manufacturing any other good and someone comes along and decides to steal it and sell themselves. This would not be tolerated for any other goods, why for ours?

How can you support good journalism, or local journalism that is relevant and meaningful to you? The obvious answer is to pick up the paper, and buy a subscription, in either print or online.

It is also to be aware of where you are getting your online information from, and to be vigilant in checking their sources and where the information is coming from.

The only way this will stop is if there is no longer a profit from it.

is holiday season be nice to hospitality workers

The holiday season is upon us. Therefore, sadly predictable, even with hyperinflation and an uncertain economy, our Western consumerism has begun its annual shi into high gear, resulting in our interacting with front-line hospitality workers – retail sales associates, baristas, restaurant servers – more than usual.

You can tell a lot about someone by how they treat the person serving them; hence, the value of kindness cannot be overstated.

Throughout December and to support extended Boxing Week sales, well into January, hospitality workers will be working long hours, o en eating on their feet or in the stockroom, missing out on festivities with friends and family and exhausting themselves. Crippling staffing shortages, coupled with stock shortages, have created stressful retail, and eating establishment environments for both employees and customers.

God forbid Barbie Dreamhouse is not in stock, the barista added the wrong flavoured syrup to your coffee, the Subway counter clerk forgot to swap your salad for chips, or you asked for no ice, and your drink came with ice.

Breathe! You have food, a roof over your head, work to go to, and a sense of safety, as opposed to the millions worldwide who currently live in unimaginable poverty or, through no fault of their own, find themselves living in a war zone.

Humans, especially in stressful, busy work environments, are bound to make mistakes. You gain nothing by not treating the person serving you with the respect they deserve other than adding stress to an already stressful situation and, as I have o en seen, making a public scene because your Kansas City Striploin was done, according to you, medium-well, not well-done as you asked for.

As much as everyone bemoans the economy and how hard it is to make “ends meet” our society has somehow evolved to where consumers have the privilege of prioritizing getting stressed over a toy, not being in stock, over putting food on the table.

I assure you that the person serving you did not purposefully run out of stock or intentionally make whatever mistake you are upset over. Do not take it personally – it is not the end of the world. As an understanding and empathetic human being, which I hope we all are, give the person the benefit of the doubt and politely point out the mistake... or better yet, let it go!

Now is the ideal time to put aside our first world privileges. If the person serving makes a mistake, which I repeat was unintentional, be understanding, nice and forgiving. Remember, especially when

dining out, that the person serving you is working hard, while juggling factors out of their control, trying to make your experience as pleasant as possible.

Who is not angry about today’s prices? When making purchases which your cashier ringing them up likely cannot afford, be nice! Hospitality workers have no control over prices. If something is expensive, rethink if you really need to make the purchase and why you are making it. Is it to impress? To look rich? An attempt to buy acceptance or love?

Evaluating your reasons for making a purchase is much more financially savvy than berating a sales associate that the Jordan 7 sneakers you want to gi to your nephew in Regina, whom you have not spoken to in three years, but you want your brother to perceive you as “financially successful,” cost $245.

The sales associate or your server did not set the price. How you spend your money, what you are willing to pay, is entirely on you, not the person serving you. If you are angry at how much something costs, be angry at yourself for believing you “must have it.”

Hospitality workers are people with real feelings. Shouting at a McDonald’s counter server, which I had seen on several occasions because they gave you sweet and sour dipping sauce when you asked for barbecue, will likely result in that person going in the back to cry. Was it worth making someone earning minimum wage feel bad for making an unintentional mistake over dipping sauce?

The holidays are about celebrating the values that bind us and coming together. Despite all our self-identifying differences and how the media and politicians go to great lengths to create divisiveness, I like to think we can all agree, even though we do not always act accordingly—everyone is allowed a few bad days—that being nice to each other is a critical part of our social contract. Is not the heart of humanity human kindness? Smiling costs nothing. Saying “Please” and “Thank you” costs nothing. It costs nothing to treat bar, retail, and restaurant staff with patience.

There is no better place to start than with hospitality workers to live by the simple golden rule: “Treat others as you would like to be treated,” not just during the holiday season but throughout the year. As I mentioned initially, how you treat the person serving you tells a lot about you.

Nick Kossovan,

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e Geminid Meteor Shower

The annual Geminid Meteor Shower will peak on the night of Dec. 13, into the morning of the 14. This shower will produce up to 120 meteors per hour with some bright fireballs.

Annual meteor showers are produced when Earth crosses debris fields from comets as we orbit the sun, this is why various showers occur at the same time each year. In the case of the Geminids, Earth will encounter tiny sand-sized particles from the asteroid 3200 Phaethon with some gravel size pieces producing bright dramatic fireballs that will light up the sky

as well as the ground.

The meteors will harmlessly vaporize some 80-kilometres above the ground at a slow 35 km/sec compared to the Perseids in August at twice that speed.

A few meteors can be seen starting at about 7 p.m. locally when the constellation is low in the northeast. Greater numbers will be seen as the constellation rises higher throughout the night, as the moon will not interfere this year.

This is a must-see event.

CHARLIE’S COMICS

Gary Boyle

“The Backyard Astronomer”

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

The concerns of some of the local residents near Carter’s Beach yet again highlight the need to amend the Provincial Parks Act. These concerned residents are worried the new designation of Provincial Park actually weakens the beach’s environmental protections. They recognize that designating it as a Nature Reserve would better protect the area’s sensitive eco-systems.

I get it. As someone who was actively involved, both in 2018 and 2022, in the fight to save West Mabou Beach Provincial Park from golf course developments, I understand these concerns with the existing Provincial Park Act. The present legislation left West Mabou Beach Natural Environment Park, a provincial park with more documented biodiversity than almost anywhere else in Nova Scotia, vulnerable to two bids for development in just five years and left all Nova Scotians vulnerable to the whims of the sitting government.

Amenities and amendments LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Oh, the irony. And it was all so unnecessary. Nova Scotians should be able to rest easy knowing protected really means protectedin perpetuity. We need better protections for our beautiful, beloved, beneficent provincial parks.

Our natural environment parks need special protections. Under the existing legislation, our natural environment parks have no special designations or protections; they have the same protections as a roadside picnic park. I believe amending the Provincial Park Act to ensure proper protections could relieve the concerns of the local community and beyond. Our natural environment parks need protections similar to the protections offered to our designated provincial wilderness areas.

by Charlie Teljeur

And who can forget, sandwiched in between these two fights to save West Mabou Beach Provincial Park from the clutches of developers, was the Owls Head debacle.

Fortunately, in these three cases, after concerned citizens province-wide mobilized in support of our parks, the government of the day did the right thing and stepped in and halted any proposals and non-proposals.

Thank you, Houston government.

Thank you for the reprieve. But until the existing legislation is updated, these parks have only been spared, not saved. Spared until the next time a developer decides they want our pristine, “protected” parkland for their personal profit.

We continue to live with uncertainty.

These fights come at a steep cost, not only to our precarious natural environment, but also to the mental and physical well-being of those involved. The experience of fighting for our beloved park was the antithesis of the reason d’être of our provincial park system: to provide opportunities to recreate and promote wellness.

But provincial parks are not wilderness areas. The beauty of provincial parks is their accessibility. They are free and easily accessible to all. The (simple) amenities of our provincial parks enhance both their accessibility and enjoyment.

We need amenities and amendments: loos and laws, parking lots and proper protections, pathways and preservations of sensitive ecological areas. We need amenities in service of accessibility and amendments in the service of environmental protections. What we can’t abide is golf courses or go karts in our natural environment parks.

In the last provincial budget, the Houston government increased the Provincial Parks budget from $1 million to $10 million. Thank you Houston government. It’s time now to increase the protections of our natural environment parks tenfold. It’s time to finish the job Houston government: make the needed amendments to the Provincial Parks Act. Let all Nova Scotians reap the full benefits of our wonderful provincial park system - without the worry about next time.

The people of this beautiful province will thank you for it.

Margaret MacDonell Halifax/West Mabou

Do you like to write?

Are you curious about everything?

Do you read newspapers and magazines regularly?

Do you wonder why things happen?

Are you interested in news, history, geography, politics, sports?

Combine your interests by joining our growing team as a freelancer for the Strait Area Reporter  For more information, please contact Nicole Fawcett

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One thing we had in common was we liked art. We enjoyed going to galleries and museums and were drawn to similar art forms. We dabbled in making different kinds of art from time to time. One of us liked to scrapbook and made creative greeting cards with no formal art background or art experience.

The other made weird ‘found art’ birdhouses and musical sculptures, had some formal art background, and did various art forms throughout his life. We each reveled in how cool the other’s cra was, but once again we were doing it alone in separate spaces.

We both have always had concerns about protecting the environment and recycled when we could. We enjoyed going to flea markets, estate sales, and thri stores having fun scavenger hunt experiences.

Organically we started collecting unique and unusual ‘found’ or recycled items creating a ‘collection of stuff’ in our barn. With all this ‘stuff’ it seemed a natural progression to put different found objects together to make something new and different. This art form we found out was called assemblage art.

It happened quite naturally, as we started creating assemblage art side by side making individual pieces, as well as an art piece together. Little did we know what this shared activity was to do for our relationship.

Here are six ways it strengthened our marriage:

1. Increased love and connection

We noticed as we began to make art on a regular basis that there was an increase in smiles, loving feelings, and connection. We didn’t realize it but making art together was causing an excess of a hormone commonly as the “love drug” or oxytocin. It is responsible for our sexual arousal, trust, bonding, and romantic attachments. Who would have thought?! A win-win situation: we get to feel more love and create art pieces all at the same time! We found out this hormone has a positive feedback loop too. This means that the release of oxytocin leads to actions that stimulate our pituitary glands to release even more of it. This makes total sense why when we are in the barn together making art, we always feel closer, more playful, and yes, at times romantic!

2. Provided free relationship therapy

Making art together has helped contribute to a more satisfying marriage. From compromising on which objects to buy at a flea market to communicating our thoughts on

how these objects could be assembled, doing art has provided the opportunities to practice more effective communication. This translated into more joy, playfulness, and curiosity in our relationship.

The activity of doing art together has led us to building a strong support system around each other’s creative process. It works best when we stay open to the other person’s ideas, being unattached that our suggestions are the right fit for the other’s work. Through this support and unattachment process, lots of opportunities to let go and watch new ideas have emerged developing an increase in trust. By flexing our creative sides, we get a stronger sense of self and the ability to solve problems by imaging possible solutions together. Even co-writing this article has been a cooperative process of give and take, listening to one another’s suggestions, whether we agree with them or not.

3. Art brought shared joy and playfulness

For many years while ‘doing’ our marriage, joy was not a regular part of our relationship. We were going about our life paying bills, driving kids around, making sure the home front kept functioning. Yet when we started doing assemblage art together, the simple task of putting a ‘found object’ next to another in an art piece brought us joy and/or excitement.

When Esther came up with the idea that we should make an assemblage book together, we had no idea how far we would travel down the rabbit’s hole…together. For every small or large success, we shared joy and closeness that became part of our marriage. Now, we share the joy of having brought the book Lost & Found: Assemblage Artists of Northern California out into the world. These included making art, a gallery opening, bookstore talks, participating in self-publishing conventions, and writing this article.

4. A catalyst for trust and respect – ‘We instead of me’

In the past, we each lived in the fast lane, coming from a ‘me’ place, not a ‘we’ place. We generally had room for only one passenger. Sure ‘we’ shared a home, family, goals, living together, but the real difference was when some decisions came about, we did not fully include each other. Doing art together and writing a book on this art form caused us to shed our cloak of ‘me’ and start coming from a place of ‘we’. Surprisingly, this shi also translated across many areas of our relationship.

Equity, pre-approval, contingencies, appraisal. These are terms associated with buying real estate, but even seasoned home buyers may not fully understand them. Navigating the real estate market can be challenging, but in today’s economic climate, marked by inflation, high interest rates and high home prices across the country, it is more important than ever to understand the minutiae that is involved in buying and selling property. That’s just one of many reasons why buyers and sellers can benefit from the help of a seasoned real estate professional.

Types of real estate professionals

Many people use the terms real estate agent, real estate broker and Realtor® interchangeably. While these professionals handle many similar tasks, there are some notable distinctions between them. A Realtor® is a registered term used to describe a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of Realtors®. These individuals must adhere to a strict code of ethics, and have access to market data and transaction management services unique to this specific trade organization. A real estate agent is licensed to help people buy and sell real estate, and is paid a commission when a deal is completed. A real estate broker does the same jobs as an agent, but is also licensed to work independently and may employ his or her own agents. The broker also may get a percentage of the commission from agents in addition to his or her own commissions, according to Investopedia.

Buyer and seller

A professional may represent either the buyer or seller or both. A buyer’s agent is negotiating for the buyer in the transaction, while a seller’s agent negotiates for the seller. Real estate professionals also can represent both parties, known as dual agency. Typically this does not occur in the same transaction, as that can create a conflict of interest. Commissions typically fall between 5 and 6 percent on real estate transactions, an amount that is split by all real estate professionals working on the transaction.

Why work with a real estate professional?

Homeowners may wonder why they should seek the services of a real estate agent, broker or Realtor®. That’s particularly so for sellers, as buyers typically do not pay a real estate representative any money.

• Expertise: Considering that buying and selling a home is one of the biggest financial transactions one will make, it makes sense to leave it in the hands of experienced professionals.

• Price a home right: Real estate professionals will conduct a market analysis and look at “comps” in the area to determine a price that is fair and will help a house move. When working with buyers, the agent or broker also will be able to help them come up with a reasonable offer price.

• Access to MLS: Agents and brokers have access to the Multiple Listing Service, which is widely used across the United States for listing available properties. It helps sellers sell faster and will enable buyers to view multiple properties all in one database.

• Negotiations: Leaving negotiations to a third party removes emotion from the transaction and can help everyone involved resolve issues and agree on acceptable terms.

Buying and selling real estate is a complex process. Real estate professionals can simplify the process and make it more enjoyable for buyers and sellers alike.

Minister backs o plan for windfarms in Chedabucto Bay

by Alec Bruce Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Guysborough Journal

CANSO: Vocal opposition from the Guysborough County Inshore Fishermen’s Association (GCIFA), among other fishers, has prompted the provincial government to walk back a controversial plan to put windfarms in inshore areas, including Chedabucto Bay, Natural Resources and Renewables Minister Tony Rushton told The Journal in a recent interview.

“We heard from many fishers,” he said. “There are good conversations now taking place...I don’t want to pit one industry against the other...This is what it looks like for a government to listen and work with one industry.”

Rushton spoke to The Journal following his announcement on Nov. 22 that the provincial government is “pausing any consideration of waters within provincial jurisdiction until the framework for jointly managed offshore areas” is determined.

“Offshore wind is an important part of our clean energy plan,” the news release continued. “We are working with our federal partners to ensure a clear path for sustainable development of this new sector.”

The announcement received a cautious thumbs up from GCIFA.

“They’ve pressed the pause button, which is a good thing,” the organization’s executive director Ginny Boudreau told The Journal in an interview on Nov. 23. “But they haven’t gone away from the idea of developing the inner [Chedabucto Bay] for use of offshore wind...We’re still pushing for a complete stop to any type of wind development in the inner bay.”

Earlier in November, Rushton noted at a public function in Halifax that his department had identified Chedabucto Bay and St. George’s Bay in the Northumberland Strait as potential sites for large-scale wind farms thanks to their strong and reliable winds.

The statements prompted immediate criticism from GCIFA and the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG), which urged Rushton to adhere to the joint federal-provincial Regional Assessments on Offshore Wind Development in Nova Scotia, an extensive public consultation that got underway in Guysborough in early October.

Since then, the five-member panel has traveled to several Nova Scotia communities – including Sydney, Port Hawkesbury, Inverness, Digby, Yarmouth, and Shelburne – to obtain feedback on offshore wind energy development from coastal fishers and others.

In The Journal’s recent interview, Rushton said when they released the provincial offshore wind roadmap in June of this year, that was sort of Phase 1 to have some consultation take place.

“We wanted to make sure that all options were on the table,” he said. “We heard a lot of questions [such as]: ‘Can you just wait till the regulatory regimes are ready for both the waters that we

share with our federal partners, and also the waters that we’re more responsible for [at] the near shore of the province?’ So, we’re [trying] to make sure that everybody’s at the table and everybody has a voice.”

Rushton pointed out that the pause does not preclude the provincial government from eventually approving wind development in Chedabucto’s inner bay.

“We’re not closing the door on our offshore wind,” he said. “We’re just [waiting] until the regulatory regime process is completed with our federal counterparts...We can certainly coexist here.”

But, while Boudreau stressed that GCIFA and its members support green energy development, in general, they do not want wind turbines in Chedabucto Bay for practical reasons.

“There just isn’t enough room with all the activity that’s now going on there, and not just from [our] industry,” which comprises more than a dozen active fisheries, she said.

Specifically, she noted, several industries share the bay, including cargo vessels and oil tankers with multiple anchorage sites on both north and south coasts, an aggregate quarry in Point Tupper, which ships weekly; another quarry planned for the Queensport area, and two hydrogen and ammonia facilities gearing up.

“We are very near capacity. Other industries have also pointed out their concerns [to the provincial government],” Boudreau said. “It’s complicated.”

A principal objective of the round of regional assessments is to sort through these complexities. By law, the province holds sway over any waters that fall within their political borders and any contained by their coastal headlands, including bays and harbours.

Beyond that, federal marine jurisdiction begins at the low water mark and extends seaward for 200 nautical miles. In practice, multiple levels of government – federal, provincial, municipal, international, and Indigenous – influence Canadian coastal management.

Boudreau said that the provincial government’s decision to wait until the process can be completed is a smart move.

“It would greatly benefit” from allowing the process to play out as it would then “at least have a tool to use in their own development [plans].”

MODG Warden Vernon Pitts concurred.

Earlier this month, MODG formally supported GCIFA’s opposition to wind development in the bay.

In an interview with The Journal on Nov. 23, he said the province seems more than willing to take input from their fishers and as well as their municipal government.

“We are working together towards a positive outcome,” Pitts said. “It’s like my dad always said...’The man who invented the pencil was very smart. But he also had to invent the eraser for mistakes.’”

Illegal dumping still a problem for local communities

by Alec Bruce Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Guysborough Journal

GUYSBOROUGH: Indiscriminate dumping is not as frequent or as odious of a problem as it once was, but Kevin O’Handley of the Eastern Region Solid Waste Management Committee (ERSWMC) says it still happens – and it still stinks – in every sense of the word.

“There’s one spot at the look-off near Halfway Cove,” O’Handley said. “I saw one resident not overly long ago, as I was driving into work, just stuffing his garbage into one of the receptacles. He said, ‘Well, I pay taxes.’ And I said, ‘Well, I do too, but I don’t take my garbage here.’”

The compliance officer for the ERSWMC – which covers the five regional municipalities in Guysborough and Antigonish counties – spoke to The Journal following news that anyone caught dumping on Crown land can now expect to pay a pocketbookbusting penalty.

According to the Nov. 17 announcement from the Department of Natural Resources and Renewables, fines for dumping are now $812.50 for a first offence and up to $2,422.50 for repeat offences. The fine was $352.50 for both first and subsequent offences.

Natural Resources Minister Tony Rushton said in a statement they’re serious about protecting the province’s lands and forests.

“We’re delivering on a promise to increase the fine for dumping on Crown land,” Rushton said. “Higher fines will serve as a greater deterrent and help keep our natural spaces clean.”

While the new measure does not affect the municipal land under the ERSWMC’s watchful eye, O’Handley said it sends a strong message to any resident or business in the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG), the Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s, the Town of Mulgrave and the Town of Antigonish, along with the Municipality of the County of Antigonish, that still think public property should be used as a private dumpster.

“I’ve got a picture right in front of me and it looks like somebody emptied out their deep freeze. There’s all kinds of food there...Like it’s just crazy,” he said. “This is out on McGillivray’s Loop, which is probably 10 minutes from the landfill on Route 16.”

Fortunately, O’Handley’s quick to say, these sort of incidences – and worse – are not as common as they once were.

“Years ago, you would get the real big ones,” he said. “Now, you get your odd small one and it’s usually nothing I can’t handle by myself and get cleaned up.”

O’Handley chalks that up to better public awareness and municipal enforcement through the ERSWM since it formed in 1996 to help Nova Scotians reach waste diversion mandates required through provincial regulation. This target includes

all refuse disposed from residents, businesses and as a result of construction and demolition activities.

The problem, he says, is the domino effect.

“All the municipalities have been great in giving me a hand with workers and so forth to get this stuff out of there fast,” O’Handley said. “With an illegal dump – say 10 bags and appliances – what happens when you leave it is that it just gets bigger.”

MODG Warden Vernon Pitts said that while the situation has improved substantially through their affiliation with the ERSWMC, there’s no need for any of this in today’s day and age.

“We have weekly organics and solid waste recyclables. And every month, we have a heavy haul for bulk items. Meanwhile, the landfill is open six days a week. It takes less effort to put this stuff at the end of your driveway than to unload it in the woods somewhere,” Pitts said. “Yet, we still have people [who do that]...It just amazes me. Kevin [O’Handley] is authorized to investigate and charge. We’ll do whatever we have to. We haven’t been challenged in court yet.”

INVERNESS: A week a er an expansion to the fresh food program was announced in Antigonish County, three additional schools in the Strait Regional Centre for Education (SRCE) will provide their students with fresh and healthy food, while also supporting local farmers.

The Fresh Food program, which will now be available at several local schools in the SRCE, has been made possible thanks to a new initiative from the Tim Houston Conservative government.

This pilot program is set to bring a range of fresh, nutritious foods to students in the form of large, portable salad bars to Dalbrae Academy in Southwest Mabou (Grades 9-12); Inverness Education Centre/Academy (Grades Primary-12); and Tamarac Education Centre in Port Hawkesbury (Grades Primary-8).

It’s advised this initiative will help students understand where their food comes from, while fueling their learning with healthy lunch options.

“Young people face a world of unhealthy food choices,” Inverness MLA Allan MacMaster said. “Introducing local, healthy food to these schools gives students a chance to know how much better they will feel when they take control of what they eat.”

The three schools in western Cape Beton, are among eight in the SRCE participating in the three-month, $200,000 pilot project. The initiative is led by the Department of Agriculture

in collaboration with the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development and Nova Scotia Health.

Deanna Gillis, the coordinator of communication for the Strait Regional Centre for Education (SRCE) told The Reporter they are excited about the launching of the provincial Fresh Food Cart pilot project at eight schools in the region.

“We recognize the importance of students having access to healthy nutritious food at school to support their learning, development and overall success,” Gillis said in an emailed response. “The Fresh Food Cart pilot in the SRCE is offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays to all students. The cost is $4 per meal. On these days, the menu includes Taco Tuesdays, spaghetti and loaded baked potatoes with chili where students can choose from a variety of fruits and vegetables to add to their meal.”

Depending on the school, parents/guardians may submit an online order and orders can be taken in the morning as well at all eight schools.

“We have received very positive feedback from all participating schools. Students are enjoying trying new foods and are looking forward to food cart days,” Gillis said. “The SRCE would like to thank all partners, staff, volunteers and cafeteria food service provider for their help in bringing this project to a reality for our students.”

According to provincial representatives, this program is in line with the Houston government’s commitment to providing students with healthy food options, supporting local farmers, and its goal to ensure that at least 20 per cent of food purchased by Nova Scotians is locally grown by 2030.

Photo contributed.

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4th annual Oliver Smith Legacy Game huge success

Photos courtesy of Ollie Bots.

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Final Whistle Wisdom

Corey

Perry

by Charlie Teljeur www.charlieteljeur.com

Stories in the media are always subject to the court of public opinion but the rampant blather, rumours and, worst of all, righteous judgement in today’s social media orbit has made this culture both extremely toxic and unapologetically harmful.

It’s not that people don’t have the right to chime in on what they read about but, because of the democratic nature of social media and the lack of accountability for what you’re saying, the online world is free to say whatever they want regardless of the potential devastation it could cause.

Case in point is the recent sordid tale of Corey Perry’s contract termination by the Chicago Blackhawks and what might have actually happened to cause this.

Perry, who was brought in (ironically) for his leadership skills for both the team, and in particular first year phenom Connor Bedard, has evidently done something so heinous and distasteful that not only did he get cut by the team but also his defense of whatever occurred amounts to nothing more than a humbling public apology.

This, in itself, is very telling.

Given that the NHL Players Association would do everything in its power to defend a regular wrongful dismissal, you can’t help but assume the worst when it comes to figuring out what actually happened.

Perry’s apology mentions his struggle with alcohol and substance abuse but, if that was simply the issue, he would remain with the team and be welcomed into the

league’s counselling. Addiction and substance abuse in today’s sports world aren’t the death knell to a career they used to be. No instead, whatever happened is so serious that the team sought to immediately distance itself from Perry and was something he accepted willingly. Certainly, Chicago’s historical blunders with the horrible mismanagement of the Kyle Beach controversy certainly played a major role in their willingness to cut ties quickly, but again, it doesn’t exactly cultivate an environment of understanding.

Again, it leads us back to the burning curiosity as to what actually happened. Enter social media and the typical hyperbolic fervour that surrounds it. A er the original announcement was made that Perry would be on leave from the team in a mutual decision (which was just a mysterious situation at this point) it wasn’t long until the internet did its thing.

Keep in mind most of this rumourmongering was coming from the internet cesspool known as Twitter (now called X ever since Elon Musk had taken over). And while Musk likes to frame his takeover as the self-proclaimed salvation of free speech, all he really did was remove the guardrails and decorum of accountability and reasonable discourse.

The feeding frenzy with the Corey Perry story came fast and furious. This is not to say that there wasn’t a basis for truth here. It’s just that who’s to say what that truth actually was, and with Perry’s on-ice persona

being what it was, there were no limits to the shady theories behind his dismissal.

The main one, involving Perry and Connor Bedard’s mom, became the fuel that fed the raging fire. So much so that it went from being something only bandied about by online keyboard warriors, to a full-fledged “story” trying to poke its head into the stream of the mainstream media. It became the elephant in the room that, regardless of whether it was true or not, needed to be dealt with in a very public way. And it was.

“Perry has engaged in conduct that is unacceptable, and in violation both of the terms of his Standard Player’s Contract and the Blackhawks’ internal policies intended to promote professional and safe work environments,” the Blackhawks acknowledged. They also vehemently denied any substance to the rumour.

Whether the public actually believes the Blackhawks’ explanation seems to matter very little in the long run. Minds have already been made up and the true damage has already been done. A young star is (further) disillusioned with the team that dra ed him; a team that keeps sinking deeper and deeper in the Sea of Credibility; and a failed hockey mentor tried in the court of public for both the crimes he committed, and any other ones they wanted to add on.

The awesome power of social media, acting as the judge, the jury and the executioner. Whether warranted or not. Welcome to sports in the 21st century.

CBU basketball coaches re ect on start to AUS season

Bright spots, work to do

by Corey LeBlanc

SYDNEY: Matt Skinn, Cape Breton University (CBU) Capers men’s basketball head coach, said everyone with the program is “excited about where the team can go.”

The former CBU student-athlete offered that thought while reflecting on the start to the Atlantic University Sport (AUS) regular season, one in which his Capers have fashioned a 5-4 record heading into the Christmas break.

“We have some new players to the AUS and have had a tough schedule with six road games so far,” Skinn explained. “Hopefully, we can protect home court during the second half of the season and continue to learn what it takes to win on the road in a competitive league.”

He praised his team leaders – Tyson Cato, Mitchell Mersereau, Justus Peuser, and Shak Pryce – who he said have been “our best players.”

“They lead our team daily in practice,” Skinn said. “And with their work ethic.”

The experienced Pryce, who is in his first season with the Capers, sits fifth in the conference with 19.3 points per game, while Cato has contributed 15.2. Peuser – a sophomore guard, who made the AUS allrookie team last season – has chipped in 12.2 points per contest, while Mersereau has added nine.

Cato, a junior forward, is second in the AUS with 7.7 rebounds per game.

Pryce is third in the conference, with 35 assists, and first in steals (20), while Peuser (39) is second in assists.

“We are also excited about a couple of our young players and how they have transitioned into the AUS,” Skinn noted.

“Aaron Cunningham and Stefan Anisko.”

Anisko is third in team scoring, with 12.4 points per game, while Cunningham has contributed more than three rebounds per contest (3.3), off the bench.

As for where the Capers will have to improve in order to make the AUS playoffs and make a run for a conference banner in March, Skinn predicted that – because it is “such a tight league” – post-season spots will be up for grabs until the final weekend of the regular season.

“We are going to have to continue to grow and improve with our defensive pressure, our overall team chemistry and our mental toughness to be able to do what it takes on a nightly basis within the league,” he said. “We are excited about the possibilities.”

On the women’s side, veteran head coach Fabe McKenzie said, they have not looked like a playoff team thus far.

“We need to improve our consistency and vastly improve our defense,” he said, in order to change that narrative. “If we want to make the playoffs.”

McKenzie described his team’s 4-5 start as “very disappointing.”

“Inconsistency and lack of attention to detail has haunted us,” he said.

When asked about the key contributors for the Capers, McKenzie singled out his junior point guard.

“Chermensa van la Parra has been our MVP, so far,” he said. “Without question.”

At 18.9 per game, van la Parra places fifth in AUS scoring, while making the fourthhighest number of three-pointers (19).

Junior forward Kiyara Letlow is third in conference scoring – averaging 19.7 points per game – and tops the loop with 15.3 rebounds per contest.

Senior forward Hailey MacLeod, at 51.5

per cent, has the best shooting percentage in the AUS. The Capers will return to AUS action on Jan. 5, at 6 p.m. (women) and 8 p.m. (men) tipoffs – and Jan. 6 – at 4 p.m. (women) and 6 p.m. (men) – when they host the Acadia

and

44

PRIVATEERS 44 (10) SWINKEL’S HONEY 38 (11) DC27 36

Vaughan Merchant photos. omegro n product Mitchell Mersereau ydney is a key contributor to the Cape Breton University Capers men s varsity basketball programs

enior for ard ailey MacLeod, ho is from Marion Bridge has the best shooting percentage in the U ith per cent

Axewomen

Axemen at Sullivan Fieldhouse on the CBU campus.

StFX forward Maggy Burbidge scored a pair of goals including the overtime winner,

to

Made-for-TV movies o en depict holiday shopping in the best possible light. The story’s protagonist wanders into the town center and easily finds everything on his or her list at a series of perfectly decorated local boutiques that have nary a shopper in sight. Hot chocolate or mulled cider and repartee also tends to be par for the television movie course. People in the real world

understand that holiday shopping doesn’t always work so smoothly. Certainly shopping local is a great way to avoid the crowds and introduce shoppers to more unique gi options, but it’s impossible to remove every obstacle in holiday shopping — particularly getting stumped over shopping for that particularly difficult person on your list. The holly jolly nature

of the season can be eclipsed when a person doesn’t know where to begin when shopping for those people who seem to have it all.

The following ideas can help shoppers who are stuck on what to buy for that loved one who already has it all.

• Consider experiences. A recent Harris Group study found 72 percent of millennials prefer to spend money on

experiences rather than things. If the person on your shopping list has just about every material possession one can imagine, giving unique experiences might be the way to go. The National Retail Federation confirms the shi in attitude, noting consumers across all age groups now spend more on experiences than they did in years past.

• Consolidate memories. Technology continues to evolve, which means that the way music, videos and photos are captured and stored is always changing. Unless a person has older gear, it’s no longer possible to watch a VHS tape featuring a family member’s graduation ceremony or reprint photographs that are on film negatives. However, shoppers can work with a company that will transfer media onto a new format, such as a thumb drive or in a cloud-based account. This can be a heartfelt gi for someone who wants to reminisce.

• Food or beverage subscription. Everyone needs to eat (and drink), so there is always a need for tasty offerings. Introduce loved ones to new foods with various subscriptions. If a person is missing flavors from a home country, have delicacies shipped so the recipient can enjoy a taste of their childhood.

• Make a family cookbook. Enlist the help of other family members and compile beloved family recipes. Utilize a cookbook publishing service to compile all of these recipes together. Then gi recipients can revisit their favorites time and again.

• Trace family lineage. If the gi recipient is a history buff or is interested in his or her family tree, then a membership to an ancestry service could be an ideal gi . Individuals can spend hours uncovering distant relations and studying their family history in the process.

Holiday shopping can be challenging when looking for gi s for people who seemingly have it all. A few outside-thebox ideas can make it easier to overcome that challenge.

Easy ways to support small businesses

It’s easy to overlook how integral small businesses are to local, national and even global economies.

The Small Business Administration and the U.S Census Bureau indicate small businesses account for 99.7 percent of all American businesses, employing 56.8 million people. Similarly, according to Statistics Canada, local businesses classified as micro or small businesses made up 98.1 percent of all the employers in Canada in 2021.

Since mall businesses are the economic engine of many neighborhoods and communities, it’s in everyone’s best interest to pitch in and ensure such firms’ success. Thankfully, it’s easy for anyone to support the small businesses that make their communities unique.

• Shop locally and online from small businesses as much as possible. If you cannot shop right away, consider purchasing gi cards to the retailer or service provider and share them as gi s to others.

• Before you immediately go with a well-known

chain or e-commerce giant, find out if a local retailer offers the same items you need and shop there.

• Actively discover new brands, check them out, and then spread the word about your findings to others.

• Share posts from small businesses on social media. It’s good exposure for them and can help to widen their customer base.

• Attend special events or promotions hosted by local businesses. Well-attended events may spark others’ curiosity.

• Share a quick photo of something you bought at a small business or of a service they provided.

For example, if a local landscaping company did a wonderful job putting in a new patio or pavers, share the before and a er with those you know.

Communities can embrace various strategies to support the small businesses that make Main Street unique.

5 advantages local business have over the competition

Small businesses on Main Street and big box chains have been competing for consumers’ attention for decades. Historians say that big box stores were born in the early 1960s when Wal-Mart, Target and Kmart entered the retail landscape. It’s been more than 60 years since these chains arrived and they certainly have garnered their share of devotees. Big box businesses have size, inventory and o en price on their side. However, when consumers look beyond those factors, it’s easy to see all of the benefits small businesses offer that behemoths cannot.

1. Passionate owners and operators

Walk into a big box store or other business and you may find a handful of dedicated employees, but not quite at the level of small businesses. Small business owners prioritize the customer experience because they know they need to work hard to retain customers. This translates into knowing the products well, and sharing as much

knowledge as possible with customers.

Big box businesses vulnerable to heavy staff turnover o en do not have a vested interest in the brand.

2. Work the local niche

What makes big box retailers so familiar to shoppers is one can stop in a store in the middle of Nebraska and likely find the same items as a store in Hawaii, with only a few subtle differences between the locations. Big box companies work with the same suppliers and ship the same products all over the world. Customers seeking personalized items and services for their particular regions are better off utilizing local small businesses that can bring

in regional vendors more readily.

3. Better shopping experience

Big box stores draw customers during peak times when they’re home from school or off from work. That o en translates to long lines both at checkout and at customer service or return counters. By contrast, there may be no apparent rhyme or reason to when shoppers visit small businesses, meaning there likely will not be crowds. It’s much more pleasant to browse wares without having to contend with shopping cart traffic and people blocking aisles.

4. Advanced technology

Big box companies have invested millions of

dollars into their point-of-service systems and other technologies, which means it can be a very slow transition to new options as times change. Small businesses generally can shi to newer, better technology more readily because they do not have to do so on the same scale as their larger competitors.

5. General agility

Changing technology on a dime is not the only ways small businesses excel. They can experiment in other ways, such as a home contractor offering a special price deal for a certain period of time, or a clothing store experimenting with new in-store decor. Big chains cannot pivot that quickly, and any changes must be approved by corporate and implemented across all centers.

Although small businesses may have a tough time beating big box retailers on overall price, there are many other advantages such enterprises have over the competition.

ENTERTAINMENT

Centre Stage

Column by Stephen Cooke

Christmas shows appear to be selling out quickly, before there’s even a chance to include them here. Last week it was Bette MacDonald’s and Maynard Morrison’s Christmas in Cape Breton sleigh ride around the province, which became the Nova Scotian equivalent of a Taylor Swift ticket.

Then there’s Happy Ha Ha Holidaze show featuring Heather Rankin, Jenn Sheppard and Terrance Murphy that kicks off on Dec. 7 at the Savoy in Glace Bay, with stops in Mabou on Dec. 8, matinee and evening shows at Lower Sackville’s Knox United Church on Dec. 9 and a Dec. 10 matinee at Guysborough’s Miles MacDonald Performance Centre.

They still have seats as of this writing, but the Christmas clock is ticking.

Another holiday tour to keep an eye out for is a welcome mainland visit by Newfoundland & Labrador’s the Irish Descendants, who have three Nova Scotia dates in the middle of covering their home province from stem to stern, and with good reason.

Founding member Con O’Brien has been steering the Descendants’ ship for over three decades now, and two weeks ago the band released its new holiday record, simply titled Christmas. You can’t miss the colourful cover, which sports a festive fir tree bearing the group’s shamrock logo and a saucy Whiskey Jack (Grey Jay) wearing a Santa hat and a guitar slung over its feathery back.

Bringing the new album to Nova Scotia, the Irish Descendants play the Savoy Theatre in Glace Bay on Dec. 14, the Pictou Legion (presented by the deCoste Centre) on Dec. 15 and Halifax’s Light House Arts Centre on Dec. 16. For tickets, contact the individual venues or visit their websites.

As an added bonus, Juno Awardnominated Rum Ragged members Mark Manning and Aaron Collis will be joining the legendary Newfoundland band as tour guests, with some robust harmonies and

well-observed songwriting, and maybe even a holiday classic or two.

It’s been more than 20 years since the last Christmas album from O’Brien and his crew — 2001’s The Gift — which mixed traditional carols and well-chosen covers like a terrific version of Ryan’s Fancy’s heartfelt Children’s Winter (a personal favourite among East Coast Christmas songs).

Two decades later, the new album Christmas is more than a musical regifting dressed up with tin whistle and accordion. There’s O’Brien’s evocative ode to the holiday in his hometown in Bells Over Bay Bulls, and the upbeat Hooray for Christmas, and even a Newfoundland folk take on Snoopy’s Christmas. Members Terri Lynn Humber and Justin Hickey, who also perform in the trio Kitchinparti, offer a romantic slice of Celtic pop Must Be Christmas to wrap the party up in a nice, danceable bow.

It’s a treat to have the Irish Descendants back on this side of the Cabot Strait, and with a special project that goes the extra mile to present holiday songs you won’t soon get tired of. As an added Christmas bonus, the entire album is available to play for free on YouTube, although you can also get the CD from the band’s website — www.theirishdescendants.com, where you can also find links to tickets — or at one of the shows.

If you feel like a quick trip up TransCanada Hwy 105, A Theatre Baddeck Christmas presents the repertory company’s talented cast in a cabaretstyle evening (or afternoon, there are two matinees) of seasonal songs and kneeslapping sketches with a mix of favourite performers and Bras d’Or-area musical talent.

Shows run from Dec. 7 through Dec. 10 at 7:30 p.m. each night, and 2:30 p.m. on the weekend.

For more info, visit theatrebaddeck. com.

OFFSHORE WIND Community Information Sessions

Come join us to learn the basics about offshore wind energy and how it could help Nova Scotia achieve a

Beer bash deemed big success for business partnership

by Alec Bruce Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Guysborough Journal

GUYSBOROUGH: The Guysborough District Business Partnership’s (GDBP’s) second annual Nor’easter Cra Beer Festival attracted more than 300 people to the Chedabucto Lifestyle Complex (CLC) in early November – netting more than $10,000 to support its tourism, small businesses and community promotion mandate.

“It had 11 vendors, including three new ones,” District 1 Councillor Paul Long, a GDBP board member, told Municipality of the District of Guysborough Council at its regular meeting on Nov. 15, about the Nov. 4 event. “A er all the expenses, the business partnership made a profit. The event was sold out.”

Vendors comprised a who’s who of Nova Scotia cra brewers, including Authentic Seacoast, Big Spruce, Candid Brewing, Sober Island, The Church Brewing Co. and Tatamagouche Brewing.

“The vendors who came in were very happy with what they saw and how the event was organized,” Long said. “A lot of people asked questions of the vendors about how they actually make their beer.”

The beer festival is one of several business-building events in the GDBP’s community development portfolio. Launched in April 2022, the private sector-lead organization received its marching orders – and $1.5 million – from MODG council to enhance tourism and small business in the municipality over the next five years.

“It’s one thing to be able to give local people something to do on a Saturday night in November, but what struck me was the number of people I didn’t know who attended, and who were genuinely interested in the cra of beer making,” Long said in an interview with The Journal. “This was about having little bit of fun, but it was also a learning experience [in business development] and good PR for the area. It sends the message that we are open and willing to try new things.”

Photo contributed. he uysborough District Business Partnership s DBP Nor easter Craft Beer estival dre people to the Chedabucto Lifestyle Comple in early November he sold-old event turned a tidy pro t of , for the DBP

•Curb Cutting

•Wall Sawing/Floor

The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, also known informally as White Ribbon Day, is a day commemorated in Canada each December 6, the anniversary of the 1989 École Polytechnique massacre, in which fourteen women were murdered and ten others injured in the name of “fighting feminism”.

On December 6, as we observe the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, it is a time to reflect on the woman, girls, LGBTQI2S+ and gender-diverse individuals for whom gender-based violence continues to be a daily reality. A time to remember all the women and gender-diverse people who have lost their lives to gender-based violence. It is also a time to take action.

In 2022, the Canadian Femicide Observatory for Justice and Accountability reported that, on average,

one woman or girl is killed by violence every 48 hours. Women and girls are disproportionately harmed by someone they know, namely an intimate partner or family member. Domestic violence can carry over into the workplace, threatening women’s ability to maintain economic independence.

There is help locally and provincially. For those dealing with abuse, there are women’s and family resource centres across Nova Scotia which can connect them to various supports like counselling, advocacy, housing, mental-health supports, child care, community activities and more.

Those looking for culturally-relevant Indigenous services can get in touch with the Mi’kmaw Family Healing Centre in Millbrook at 902-893-8483, or We’koqma’q at 902-756-3440.

If you need help and are in immediate danger, call 911.

This year marks 34 years since the Montreal massacre. They died because they were women. Let us honor those who have died as a result of gender-based violence and commemorate the 14 women murdered at l’école Polytechnique de Montréal on December 6th, 1989.

9, 10095 Grenville St. St. Peter's, NS, B0E 3B0 902-535-2297 info@trevorboudreau.ca

We Remember

902-533-2777 gregmorrow4gt@gmail.com

e 16 days of activism against gender-based violence

The 16 days of activism against genderbased violence is a global campaign that begins on November 25th, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and concludes on December 10th International Human Rights Day. The 16 Days of Activism is dedicated to raising awareness and taking action within our communities against gender-based violence. The purple ribbon campaign began in 1991 and this year marks 32 years as a symbol of solidarity against violence and human rights violations. During this time, we ask members of the public to wear a purple ribbon in solidarity with us as we remember the many women who have lost their lives to violence. We also remember the victims of the tragic events of the Montreal Massacre on December 6th 1989 where 14 women were killed simply because they were women.

During this purple ribbon campaign wearing a ribbon also helps to raise awareness about the services that exist within our communities. Services that support people experiencing genderbased violence in various forms that go well beyond physical violence such as; sexual, financial, and verbal. Did you know that further harm occurs because of bystander actions and attitudes such as victim blaming, attitudes such as “it’s a private matter” and turning a blind eye. Within our rural communities do we allow residents we know that are at risk of harm to become socially isolated without community members reaching out to check on their safety and well-being? Within our communities do we fail to challenge

misogynistic jokes about gender-based violence? Based on the tragic recent and historic events in our province we know intimate partner violence can escalate quickly to a public safety threat. Domestic violence is no longer a private matter that we can ignore. How can we work together collectively to create a cultural shift in thinking that views any type of violence as socially unacceptable?

Leeside Society operates a 15-bed domestic violence shelter in the Port Hawkesbury area. We provide services 24 hours a day 365 days a year. We also operate outreach services at Strait Area Women’s Place. Support is available by calling the domestic violence hotline at 1-855466-4994. We work closely with other provincial domestic violence shelters and sexual assault centers provincially more information can be found at www.thans. ca and www.womenconnect.ca. Leeside has recently partnered with Avalon Sexual Assault Centre to offer the services of a trauma therapist. In 2024 Leeside will be expanding services to provide men’s support services in partnership with other provincial men’s support programming. More information can be found about Leeside by visiting our website www. leesidesociety.ca

On December the 6th we will be hosting an open house at Strait Area Women’s Place, 609 Church Street Port Hawkesbury, Suite 102 from 12 pm -3 pm. All members of the public are welcome to stop by for free refreshments and to learn more about our services. Please feel free to bring a donation for our food bank.

DECEMBER 6

NATIONAL DAY OF REMEMBRANCE AND ACTION ON VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

A time... to re ect on violence against women here in Canada and around the world

to think about all the women and girls who live daily with the threat of violence

to remember those whose lives have been a ected by violence

to take action to stop it

Your Community Calendar

We will post the event, date, and time at no charge.

WEDNESDAY DEC. 6

-45 Card Game at the New Horizon Club in Arichat at 2:00pm.

-45 Card Play at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 37 in Mulgrave at 7:30pm.

-BINGO sponsored by Tracadie Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary at the Monastery Fire Hall at 7:30pm.

-45 Card Play at the Mulgrave Legion at 7:30pm

-Riverdale Seniors Club at the Riverdale Community Centre in Lower River. 12:00pm.

-CORAH Café at NSCC Strait Campus cafeteria, 226 Reeves St, Port Hawkesbury n oy co ee tea, sociali ing, conversation, board games, cards and or exercises. (55+ years) 9:00am10:00am.

- rts Crafts night at the avre Boucher Community Centre multi-purpose room. 7:00pm-9:00pm.

-Celtic Cultural perience at the iverdale Community Centre, 106 Vince McCarthy Lane, Lower River. Music by Eastbound. 6:00pm-8:00pm.

THURSDAY DEC. 7

-C – Meditation ith Monica

McCarthy at NSCC Strait Campus, 226 Reeves St, Port Hawkesbury. 11:00am-12:00pm.

-BINGO at the New Horizon Club in Arichat at 2:00pm.

-BINGO at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 81 in Guysborough at 7:30pm.

-45 Card Play at the D’Escousse Improvement Centre at 7:30pm.

-B N at the Port astings olunteer

Fire Department at 8:00pm.

-Blind 45 Card Play at the Mulgrave Legion Branch 37 at 7:30pm.

-The Impact of Turbines on Wildlife ith Bob Bancroft at elile Community TV, 17 Conney’s Lane, Arichat. 6:00pm

-Christmas Jam Session at the Whycocomagh Waterfront Centre. 7:00pm

FRIDAY DEC. 8

-CORAH Café at NSCC Strait Campus cafeteria, 226 Reeves St, Port Hawkesbury n oy co ee tea, sociali ing, conversation, board games, cards and or exercises. (55+ years) 9:00am10:00am.

-CORAH Tai Chi with Michelle Greenwell at NSCC Strait Campus, 226 Reeves St, Port Hawkesbury. 10:00am-11:00am.

-BINGO at the Port Hawkesbury Volunteer Fire Department at 8:00pm.

-Tabletop Games at the Evergreen Seniors Club, Embree St, Port Hawkesbury from 7:00pm-10:00pm. or more information contact Port Hawkesbury Tabletop Society at charlesbeaton@hotmail.com.

-Chase the Ace at the L’Ardoise Community Centre. 6:30pm-8:30pm.

-Indoor Washer Toss at the Acadiaville Hall in West Arichat. 7:30pm.

-Gospel Concert with the Broussard family and Jason Homan and friends. 6:30pm

SATURDAY DEC. 9

-Annual Food Drive sponsored by the trait rea Mutual id ssociation Local re departments from Mabou to rand iver and ntigonish County

across to Guysborough and everywhere in between will be at local grocery stores. 10:00am-4:00pm.

-Chase the Ace at the Tara Lynne Centre in River Bourgeois from 11:30am - 12:30pm.

-45 Card Tournament at L’Ardoise Community Centre in L’Ardoise. 19 years and older. 1:00pm.

-45’s Card Play at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 43 in Port Hawkesbury from 1:00pm - 3:00pm. Bring a partner.

-Christmas Parade in L’Ardoise.

5:30pm.

-Cribbage at the New Horizon Club in Arichat at 7:00pm.

-Concert by the Inverness County Singers “Love and Joy” at the Inverness County Centre for the Arts, Inverness.

7:30pm

SUNDAY DEC. 10

-Brunch at the Riverdale Community Centre, 106 Vince McCarthy Driver, Lower River. 8:00am.

-Hungry Man’s Breakfast at the D’Escousse Civic Improvement Society Hall. 11:00am.

-Port Hawkesbury Market at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre, 606 Reeves St. 10:00-2:00pm.

-Mini Cribbage at the Mulgrave Royal Canadian Legion Branch 37. 1:00pm.

-Cribbage at the Seniors Room, St. Andrew’s Community Centre, St. Andrew’s. 1:00pm.

-Christmas Music and Readings service at the Princeville United Church, 1041 Riverside Road, Princeville. A light

lunch will be served. 2:00pm

-Bingo at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 150, 1219 Veteran’s Memorial Drive, Arichat. 2:00pm.

-Bingo at the Heatherton and Area Community Centre in Heatherton. 2:15pm.

-TV Bingo - Play at the Canso Lions Club or at home on Cable 6 at 6:00pm.

-Bingo at St. Joseph’s Parish, Port Felix at 7:30pm.

-Pastoral Airs at St. Joseph’s Church, Glencoe Mills. 8:00pm.

MONDAY DEC. 11

-Progressive 45 Card Game at the St. Andrew’s Community Centre. 7:30pm.

-Concert by the Inverness County Singers “Love and Joy” at St. Mary’s Church, Mabou. 7:30pm

TUESDAY DEC. 12

-CORAH Holiday Storytelling at NSCC Strait Campus, 226 Reeves St, Port Hawkesbury. 11:30am-12:30pm.

-Judique Community Centre Library is open from 1:00pm to 3:00pm.

-Card Play at the Havre Boucher Community Centre at 7:30pm.

-Card Play at the St. George’s Channel Hall in St. George’s Channel. 7:30pm. UPCOMING/ONGOING EVENTS

Music Circle 1st Saturday of each month at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 150, Arichat. Bring your own instrument. 2:00-4:00pm.

Hank’s Jamboree 4th Sunday of each month at the Havre Boucher Community Centre. (No jamboree in December) 1:00pm

Breakfast 1st Sunday of each month at the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 150, 1219 Veteran’s Memorial Drive, Arichat. 8:00am-11:00am.

Breakfast 2nd Sunday of each month at the D’Escousse Civic Improvement Hall from 8am-11am.

Breakfast 3rd Sunday of each month at the St. George’s Channel Community Hall. 9:00am-12:00pm itchen Parties – rd unday of each month at St. Patrick’s Hall in Guysborough Intervale. 2:00pm estival of rees in nverness Pick up your estival Passport at the nverness Visitor Center. Visit local businesses between Dec. 2-9 and complete your passport. Enter it into a draw for great prizes at the wrap up on Dec. 9th at the Inverness Legion from 11:00am-2:00pm. Dance at the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 150 Arichat. Music by Eldorado. 9:00pm-1:00am. Dec. 23 ECRL is pleased to announce the launch of our menstrual product program across all branch locations with funding from the Department of Communities, Culture, ourism, and Heritage. Menstrual products are now available in all ECRL washrooms, and the program is expanding to include incontinence products and diapers Learn more about this initiative here https ecrl ca ne s ecrl-menstrual-product-program-launch ind information about your local library here https ecrl ca locations

Mi’kmaw students at NSCC Strait Area Campus make ribbon skirts

by Mitchell Ferguson Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Cape Breton Post

PORT HAWKESBURY: Mi’kmaq students in post-secondary schools all over the Atlantic provinces are getting the chance to create their own ribbon skirts and shirts.

These clothing items have become emblematic of Indigenous pride across North America. Giving students access to the materials, tools, and knowledge to create their own gives them a chance to own culturally important clothes they might not have otherwise.

Pamela Toney is the Indigenous Student Advisor at NSCC Strait Area Campus, and facilitated her campus ribbon skirt/shirt workshop. She says ribbon skirts and shirts have strong symbolic and cultural significance for Indigenous people.

“The ribbon skirt symbolizes resilience, strength and identity,” Toney said. “These are expensive, too. If you bought a ribbon skirt from someone, it would cost hundreds and hundreds of dollars.”

The workshops, which happened simultaneously at 15 post-secondary universities across the four Atlantic provinces, were organized by Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey (the Mi’kmaq education authority in Nova Scotia) to connect Indigenous students across the region, not only with each other on campus but with Mi’kmaw students in all of the Atlantic provinces.

‘RECLAIMING OUR CULTURE’

“We wanted them to be able to make a ribbon skirt, which is the most obvious, tangible item you could take away from it, but we also wanted them to be able to express their

Clothing designer, fashion in uencer and N CC

eneralist student ictor gara demonstrates on fellow student Aleshia Knockwood how to properly measure fabric to be comfortable for moving around and dancing

indigeneity with it,” Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey’s Post-Secondary Consultant, Ann Sylliboy said. “A tremendous amount of workmanship goes into this, and many students can’t afford it, so this is an opportunity to make their own at no additional cost to the students.”

Ribbon skirts traditionally consist of a long, flowing skirt adorned with colourful ribbons that wrap around it, that are worn for ceremonies, powwows, or everyday life and serve as a symbol of resilience and reclamation, as well as of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) movement.

“It’s empowering. Not that long ago, our people weren’t allowed to recognize our culture; it’s empowering for them to reclaim a

part of that with their own hands,” Toney said. “It’s really decolonization. I’m always trying to think about new ways to decolonize this place.”

Toney suggested the program is a small step in decolonizing academia.

‘“It’s true, it really has come a long way,” NSCC student Breanne Bernard agreed. “We’re reclaiming our own culture here.”

Students at the Strait Area Campus workshop had a range of experiences with ribbon skirts and making clothing; some students already owned their own ribbon skirts, some were making their first, and some had never even used a sewing machine.

IT generalist student Victor Agara, a designer and fashion influencer originally

from Nigeria, was present to walk the other students through the process of measuring, cutting, and sewing the garments.

“I’m a designer and fashion influencer. I’m very active on social media, and I have a lot of posters around here,” Agara said, who’s handle is @just_victor_style_ on Instagram. “Because people know what I do, they reached out to see if I could help with this.”

FAMILY LEARNING

For three of the students taking part in the workshop, the opportunity to make the skirts was as exciting as being able to make it together. Natasha Stevens from Paqtnkek First Nation is an adult learning program (ALP) student; she attends school alongside her daughters, Aleshia and Catarina Knockwood.

Stevens suggested taking this journey alongside her family makes the experience all the more important.

“It’s awesome to do this together. Not only making these skirts, but we all are going to school here together,” she said. “My daughter Aleshia and I are both in the ALP program, and my daughter Catarina is taking carpentry. It’s really great coming here with them; they are the ones who keep me focused.”

Sylliboy explained she hopes that postsecondary institutions maintain their relationship with Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey and continue to support Indigenous students in this type of way.

“We hope to continue this work and make it an annual event. Activities like this are meant to highlight and bring forward the strengths that our students have,” she said. “We wanted to showcase them and have them experience a little bit of decolonization at school, but ultimately, this is about the students and meeting them where they are at.”

Nova Scotia marks 75th anniversary of Universal Declaration of Human Rights

by Drake Lowthers

NOVA SCOTIA: The Province of Nova Scotia and the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission are recognizing the 75th anniversary of the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights, a groundbreaking global commitment to protect the rights of all people.

Premier Tim Houston has proclaimed Dec. 3 – 10 as Nova Scotia Human Rights Week. The Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission is hosting a series of events and celebrations focused on human rights.

“The UN’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights was a milestone for humanity, founded on the recognition of a simple premise - that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights,” Attorney General and Minister of Justice Brad Johns said. “We are deeply committed to creating a more equitable Nova Scotia for all people. While there is always more to be done, I am proud of the

significant work happening across government to remove systemic barriers, address inequities and eliminate hate.”

Nova Scotia’s first-of-its-kind Equity and Anti-Racism Strategy and the Mi’kmaw Language Act, which recognizes Mi’kmaw as Nova Scotia’s first language, were recently highlighted before the UN Human Rights Council as part of Canada’s fourth Universal Periodic Review.

Periodic reviews are peer reviews of UN member states’ human rights records and are held regularly.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on Dec. 10, 1948, in Paris, France. The declaration created a common standard for all peoples and all nations and set out that fundamental human rights be universally protected.

“Human rights are central to creating safe, equitable communities and to protecting the inherent dignity of all people,” Director and CEO of the Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission Joseph Fraser said. “As polarizing politics, escalating international violence, poverty and a national

housing crisis divide and challenge us, the universal principles enshrined in human rights law have the power to unite us.”

The Nova Scotia Human Rights Commission’s upcoming public events include: a partnership with the Atlantic International Film Festival for all Nova Scotians to watch the film Dawn, Her Dad & the Tractor for free via the festival’s virtual screening platform – portions of the film were shot in Antigonish; virtual panels on trans representation in film, and on housing and human rights; and the 2023 Nova Scotia Human Rights Awards ceremony, livestreamed from the Halifax Central Library.

A full schedule of events can be found at: https:// humanrights.novascotia.ca/nshrw

Nova Scotia Human Rights Week includes the International Day for Persons with Disabilities (Dec. 3), the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women (Dec. 6) and International Human Rights Day (Dec. 10).

A catalyst for trust and respect

Continued from page 7

As the ‘we’ aspect of daily life grew, it became a catalyst for more trust and respect between us. We started to allow each other’s voice and opinion to have more weight and meaning, which enhanced more respect for our opinions and thoughts. This asking and listening process created more trust in our ability to handle everyday life problems together.

5. Reduced stress

The very act of creating is a stress reducer. When we are making art, we are present and in the moment. It is a time of letting go of worries, tensions, and anxieties. One might say it is an experience of active meditation. A sense of well-being occurs that gives us a timeless experience. This is evident by not realizing the number of hours that have passed, tension free in our art studio. It’s our ‘happy place.’

6. Led us to create new initiatives together in our community

Although we participate in art galleries and shows, the real juice and interest has been with artists and non-artists who want to learn how or to make assemblage art. This led us to begin putting on one day assemblage camps. Each person brings their

own objects and/or pulls from our collection and we assist them in whatever way is needed. Through this engaging and creative activity, a local community around making art has evolved. We have had participants in the camp state ‘they are not creative’, then break that pattern throughout the day and discover a fun, delightful inner joy. As partners, we are being helpful, supportive, witnessing others in their own creative process, sharing the joy of their finished piece. When some folks learn how to use a drill, or problem solve attaching an object, we get to witness their lightbulb turn on with a new sense of ‘I can do this and that wasn’t so hard!’

Several times during the day, when we are on either side of a full barn helping someone, we’ll look up, smile at each other, knowing how much fun this is and our playful connection once again is ‘in the room.’

Our marriage has deepened by being creative together; from collecting the found objects to assembling them. Bottom line is we have fun, support each other and enjoy the journey wherever it takes us.

Esther Siegel and Spencer Brewer, Together for 45-years

Photo by Mitchell Ferguson.

Port Hawkesbury submitting two street development projects to province’s infrastructure cost share program

by Adam McNamara adammcn33@gmail.com

PORT HAWKESBURY: At a special public council meeting of the Town of Port Hawkesbury on Nov. 27, council suggested two developments be considered for a provincial program covering up to 50 per cent of eligible project costs, developments which staff said could have end up costing a total of around $4 million dollars.

The Municipal Capital Growth Program is a one-time initiative open to municipalities to help address infrastructure needs. The program offers financial assistance of eligible projects and the types of projects the program focuses on are; water and waste water projects, accessibility projects, brownfield redevelopment and climate change adaptation.

Manager of Engineering and Public Works, Jason MacMillan said, looking at Aspen Court, its 170 metres of street that they’d be looking at building.

“The construction cost estimate would be $1.1 million.”

An extension to be built off Oak Crescent in Tamarac was also proposed during the presentation. This project would create an

intersection, involving the creation of a 250-metre street with a turn circle at the end.

“We would be looking at creating lots on either side of that street. What those lots would look like is yet to be determined,” MacMillan said, noting the total costs for the Oak Crescent Extension project would be around $2.4 million plus tax. “But the zoning for that property right now is mixed use so there would be some flexibility.”

Wondering about added expenses, if these projects do become a reality, Deputy Mayor Mark MacIver asked staff if the town would be responsible for items such as traffic lights, curbing, paving and sidewalks.

CAO Terry Doyle said this could be an incentive to bring in a developer to develop the areas.

“If we’ve already invested $1.4 million, that’s $1.4 million the developer won’t have to invest,” Doyle said. “So, we’ll be asking the developer to be investing in the curb and asphalt and streetlight and the rest of it. It would offset that development cost.”

Speaking about Aspen Court, the CAO said one advantage is it’s already subdivided and the readiest of all three. Council and staff felt Oak Crescent and Aspen Court would also cater better to

Bingo fundraiser at TEC brings in $12,000, organizers still say more is needed

by Adam McNamara adammcn33@gmail.com

PORT HAWKESBURY: On Nov. 29, over 400 people packed the Tamarac Education Centre (TEC) for a fundraiser to support the purchase of new playground equipment, something organizers say they were overwhelmed with the event’s success.

TEC’s Principal Rick Welton said the bingo event was a “huge success” and it was nice to see the school and community get organized and work together.

“I think everybody had a lot of fun and a big thank you to all the sponsors and the playground committee for taking part,” Welton told The

Reporter. “Because to get everything ready really is quite a job.”

The June before Welton become principal at the school in 2020, the playground equipment had to be taken away due to safety reasons. One of the first steps as a principal is establishing a student advisory council, explained Welton and the playground committee, who put the event together, was a spinoff from that.

Chair of the playground committee, Karen MacKinnon, said she got involved with the committee when there was a call put out about the playground meetings and she decided to attend.

Continued on page 20

housing, which is one of their priorities.

An extension off Pitt Street and another property off Highway 4A was considered for commercial development, but neither property made the list for potential sites for the application which is due mid-December.

Council felt they needed more time to prioritize the two chosen projects: Oak Crescent Extension and Aspen Court. Council will pick their top choice and submit a second possible project through a resolution during a special meeting on Dec. 7.

Council and staff also felt they needed more time to discuss the framework around a potential rezoning by-law hearing which was to take place that same evening but postponed it until a meeting of council in December.

“There’s portions of the by-law that we still have to complete,” Doyle told council. “And we want to have a good opportunity for public consultation.”

The town will now hold the proposed by-law’s first hearing at a meeting on Dec. 19; the CAO advised the first reading is just about picking a date for public consultation.

“So that will be done at that time, and the public consultation will be done in January.”

Photo by Adam McNamara. Chair of the playground committee, aren Mac innon, said they did a headcount of the attendees and they had over people oin the event Mac innon said they ill most likely hold another similar event, ne t year around the same time

Local companies discuss future job needs with area students

by Alec Bruce Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Guysborough Journal

GUYSBOROUGH: A recent information session for the area’s leading companies attracted more than 100 high school students from across the municipalities of the District of Guysborough (MODG) and St. Mary’s.

But some MODG councillors remain concerned that the message is not coming through loudly and clearly enough to the next generation of local tradespeople.

The meet-and-greet organized by the Guysborough District Business Partnership for EverWind Fuels, Signal Gold and Maritime Launch Services drew Grade 9-12

students from Guysborough Academy, St. Mary’s Academy and Canso Academy to the Chedabucto Lifestyle Complex (CLC) on Nov. 7.

“The companies came in to talk about their projects,” including operations, jobs, and career opportunities, MODG District 1 Councillor Paul Long reported to his colleagues at their regular meeting on Nov. 15. “It was well received, but it’s hard to get the questions out of the kids sometimes. It would have been nice if some of the young leaders in the room who had attended had prompted them a bit, but they got the information. It’s a matter of what they do with it.”

District 2 Councillor Mary Desmond noted the value of making better connections between the Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) system and the growing private sector enterprises that will need specific trades.

“I think it is important that we get the NSCC in [to the community], which has [had] no idea what jobs would be available at Maritime Launch,” she said. “Get Maritime Launch involved to tell NSCC what trades might be available... to get our students prepared for some of these jobs.”

Speaking to The Journal following the meeting, Long said the area’s young people would benefit from having an NSCC satellite campus located in the municipality.

“It’s a great institution, and it would be nice to see it expand into Guysborough County a little bit, in light of the new industry that’s hopefully coming our way,” he said. “If there is an institution of some size and degree right in your backyard, then the likelihood of more kids thinking that these [new job opportunities] are options goes up. It just opens more doors.”

Village

by Luke Ettinger

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Guysborough Journal

SHERBROOKE: Old-Fashioned Christmas in Sherbrooke Village welcomed thousands, across three days, with the support of hundreds of volunteers and local businesses.

The popular annual yuletide event, which ran from Nov. 24 – 26, featured artisans, a market with local vendors, fireworks, and a parade.

Dana O’Connell, chairman of the Old-Fashioned Christmas

board, estimated 4,500 to 5,500 people attended the event over the weekend.

“I’d say it was a huge success,” he said in an interview with The Journal on Nov 27. “Mainly because of the volunteers and local business participation in the event.”

O’Connell said there were approximately 40 core volunteers, but more than 500 individuals contributed to the event in some capacity. He also highlighted the support from the Sherbrooke & Area Volunteer Fire Department and the District of St. Mary’s Lions Club, as well as government and corporate sponsors.

The lights and decorations on 40 buildings will stay until January – a cost O’Connell said is covered by

Temporary emergency department closures in Eastern Zone

DN he follo ing emergency departments D in Nova cotia ealth s astern one Cape Breton sland, ntigonish and uysborough counties ill e perience temporary closures until Dec

Eastern Memorial Hospital (Canso)

Closed ednesday, Dec at p m eopens hursday, Dec at a m

Closed hursday, Dec at p m eopens riday, Dec at a m

Guysborough Memorial Hospital

Closed hursday, Dec at a m eopens riday, Dec at a m

Strait Richmond Hospital (Evanston)

Closed uesday, Dec at p m eopens hursday, Dec at a m

The emergency department at Glace Bay Hospital is open on Mondays and ues ays from a m to p m ith registration closing at p m

Urgent treatment centres in North Sydney and Baddeck are open, by appointment only for patients ith une pecte but non life threatening health concerns

Sherbrooke Village.

“With every great event there’s an exit plan,” he said. “It probably takes about a month to get everything cleaned up and put away.”

A new board is expected to be elected at a meeting in March and then the planning for the 2024 Old-Fashioned Christmas begins in April.

“Nobody on the board gets paid,” O’Connell said. “And it’s a huge responsibility.”

O’Connell has been chair of the board for the past two years, and highlighted someone new will lead the annual event into its 28th year in 2024.

Bingo fundraiser at TEC brings in $12,000, organizers still say more is needed

Continued from page 19

“I guess as time went on, I got more passionate about the project and took on the role as chair,” MacKinnon said. “And I would say the school is quite supportive of the process as well.”

The group held a couple small fundraisers previously, but they knew a larger project was needed to secure more significant funds. With $12,000 being raised at the bingo event, she said they were shocked they were able to bring in so much.

“We were overwhelmed with the success of the money we raised; it was above our expectations,” MacKinnon said. “And I also think it’s because the community is very supportive, both the school and the community outside the school.”

Over 400 people packed the cafeteria at the school where there were 11 different games of bingo, a 50-50 draw and a canteen which was organized by the committee. Prizes included a round of golf, a videogame system, a getaway package, home décor items, toys for kids and more.

Mackinnon said they were quite moved by the

success and that it was quite emotional to work on something, where you are doing it just for the kids.

“And we want the kids to have a better playground,” she said. “So to see that support is huge.”

The money raised is still quite short of what they will need, MacKinnon said, but the committee is looking for opportunities within government sectors and business, hoping within a couple years a playground might be set up.

“But you never know, it could be sooner if we get the right donations or partners set up,” she said, who went on to say the committee feels playgrounds are really essential to a child’s physical and mental health. “The informal learning that happens on a playground between kids, also being out there and having the equipment to play with and try new skills, is so important.”

MacKinnon said the committee is really thankful to the community and all the businesses who participated and donated, and noted if anyone wants to donate they can reach out to her at: karenmackinnon@ns.sympatico.ca.

DeCoste

for Arts and Creativity, Ultramar Heating, Leslies Finery, Inglis Jewellers, H & R Music

Increasing access to long-term care in Port Hawkesbury

“To support that level of care we need more CCAs, LPNs, and RNs, and our government has tried to do a number of things to increase the number of caregivers,” MacMaster said. “CCAs can now get free training, there are paths for CCAs to become LPNs, more seats have been added to RNs across the province, and they are given a job offer, before they graduate.”

All these new homes are expected to be ready by 2032. The original plan included homes with about 3,500 rooms expected to be ready by 2027; together, these new spaces will help to meet the care needs of the province’s aging population.

“We are honoured to be the trusted partner with government in today’s announcement,” CEO of MacLeodCares, Ramsay Duff said. “Residents of Port Hawkesbury can look forward to another generation of their loved ones receiving safe, quality care in their community.”

The Port Hawkesbury Nursing Home is one-of-14 locations owned and operated by MacLeodCares, who care for over 850 seniors, with over 1,100 employees across Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia.

All new living spaces will be single occupancy, each with its own private washroom. The government is contracting with several long-term care providers for new facilities and to replace existing ones.

Samuel (Sam) J. McDaniel

Sept. 5th, 1950

– Dec. 5th, 2008 15 years have gone by without you.

So many times I have wanted to talk to you again. To hear your voice, to get your advice, or laugh together like before.

So many people tell me what a good man you were, and I get to say that you were my dad and such great father to us.

As I go on without you, I live out the dreams we shared with a tear and a smile.

Rest easy dad. All my love - Lori.

Novena

A Prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary

(Never known to fail)

O most beautiful ower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in this my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me here you are my Mother.

O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in this necessity. ere are none that can withstand your power. Oh show me herein you are my Mother.

O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee ( 3 times). Holy Mother I place this cause in your hands ( 3 times). Holy spirit, you who solve all problems, light all roads, so that I can attain my goal. You who gave me the divine gi to forgive and forget all evil against me and that in all instances in my life you are with me. I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things as I con rm once again that I never want to be separated from you, from your mercy towards me and mine. Amen. e prayer must be said 3 days, a er the request granted and the prayer must be published.

G.G

“Everyday you show up for the residents you care for, so much nursing home care comes down to people, staffing is critical,” MacMaster said. “Our government made a decision to fund more staff and we’re moving to a new standard of 4.1 hours of care for each resident every day.”

More announcements about locations of new and replacement rooms will take place later this month. Information and progress updates on all 5,700 rooms are available at: https://novascotia.ca/long-term-care-roomsprogress-updates/.

Building and improving more long-term care rooms is part of Action for Health, the province’s strategic plan to improve healthcare, by building and renovating new facilities with single-bed rooms and ensuring seniors live with dignity and can age well are also commitments in the Seniors and LongTerm Care Minister’s mandate.

The long-term care infrastructure plan was announced last January and current wait lists for long-term care spots vary across the province; as of Nov. 15, there were just over 1,700 people waiting at home for placement in long-term care.

Of those waiting at home, more than 70 per cent receive home care.

The Office of Healthcare Professionals Recruitment, Department of Seniors and Long-Term Care, and the continuing care sector are working together to recruit the

staff needed to support the delivery of care that will be required for these new rooms.

According to provincial statistics, seniors make up close to 22 per cent of Nova Scotia’s population, and this number is expected to climb to more than 25 per cent by 2032.

Judique Weekly lottery $500 Weekly Draw

Nov. 6th, Bernie Gillis, # 535, Judique Nov. 13th Blaise/FloAnn MacEachern, #596, Judique Nov. 20th, AnnMarie MacEachern, #586, Long Point 27th, Isabella Bacon. # 561, Judique

ARICHAT BIBLE CHURCH

UNITED CHURCH OF CANADA

Novena

Oh Holy St. Jude, Apostle and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles, near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke your special help in time of need. To you I have recourse from the depth of my heart and humbly request assistance. Help me in my present and urgent petition. In return, I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked.

ALC

Say three Our Fathers, three Hail Marys and Glorias.

is novena, if said in good faith, has never been known to fail and must be said for nine consecutive days.

Memoriam

Dale Leblanc 1975-1990

Goodbyes hurt the most when the story ends too soon.

We miss you so very much.

Mom & Dad

– Baptist Sundays – Adult Bible Study and Sunday School – 10:00 a.m. Worship Service – 11:00 a.m.

ROMAN CATHOLIC St. Joseph’s – Port Hawkesbury Services held Saturdays at 4pm Sundays at 10am St. Lawrence Parish – Mulgrave Sat. - 6 p.m. Stella Maris Pastoral Unit, Isle Madame. St. Joseph Parish, Petit de Grat - Saturdays at 4:00pm [alternating language French one week; English the next] Our Lady of Assumption, ArichatSundays at 10:00am [alternating language English one week; bilingual {E/F} the next]

UNITED BAPTIST Port Hawkesbury – A.U.B.C. Service– 10:30 a.m. www.phubc.com Phone: 902-625-0830

A Cape Breton Industry since 1896 Phone 794-2713 North Sydney, N.S. After Hours 794-3171; 794-4411

LOCAL REPRESENTATIVES

Charles MacKinnon 345-2480 Stephen Samson, St. Peter's 535-2809

Obituary

SMITH, Brenda Barbara

It is with great sadness that we, the family announce the passing of Brenda Barbara Smith, age 73, at the R. K. MacDonald Nursing Home, on November 22, 2023. Brenda was the daughter of the late Arthur and Mae Keefe and wife of the late George Smith of Port Hawkesbury. She is survived by sons George and Jason Smith; several beloved grandchildren; sisters Colleen, Charlene and Linda; brothers eg and ohn Bernadette Brenda as predeceased by sisters Loretta, elen, Bernadette, rlene and eraldine Brenda s life could be de ned by the mantra simplicity of living” and savoring the simple things. All the wonderful memories that they bring will add more value to your life. Brenda cultivated many great friendships over the years that brought her happiness and oy he rmly believed that the greatest gift you can give to your children is the gift of time he dedicated time, energy and commitment to her family and friends Brenda often could be seen running errands for people, shoveling snow or providing cleaning services, but being a homemaker was her passion. he family ould like to e tend a sincere thank you to the sta at Highland Crest Home and R. K. MacDonald Nursing Home for the wonderful care of Brenda over the past years. Cremation has taken place under the direction of reen s uneral ome here ill be no visitation and a graveside service will be held at a later date.

GOSPEL FELLOWSHIP (Non-Denominational) 10:30 a.m. Pastor Wanda Grant Evergreen Seniors Club Embree St., Port Hawkesbury Phone: 902-625-0357

EASTERN GUYSBOROUGH

UNITED CHURCH Rev. Heather Manuel Phone: 902-533-3711

UNITED CHURCH OF CANADA St. Peter’s Grand River, Loch Lomond Pastoral Charge St. Peter’s

UNITED CHURCH OF CANADA West Bay, Black River, Princeville ALL SERVICES 10 a.m. 902-345-2273 Rev. Donna Lovelace

St. Mark’s United Church, 504 Bernard St., Port Hawkesbury Sunday 9:30 a.m. Church O ce 902-625-2229 E-mail: stmarksuc@gmail.com

UNITED CHURCH OF CANADA

St. David’s United Church 7 Old Victoria Road Port Hastings, NS Sunday Service 11 a.m. 902-625-2178 With Sandi Irving

ANGLICAN COMMUNITY in STRAIT-CHEDABUCTO St. James – Melford Saturday –7 p.m. St. Andrews, Mulgrave Sunday – 9:15 a.m. Holy Trinity, Port Hawkesbury Sunday – 11:00 a.m. Rectory: 902-747-2255

RIVER & LAKESIDE PASTORAL CHARGE Forbes United Church, River Denys.

SOVEREIGN GRACE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH (PCA) Blues Mills Fire Hall TCH 105 –11:00 a.m. 902-756-2203 Rev. Wayne MacLeod

MULGRAVE PASTORAL CHARGE (United Church) St. Matthew’s, A on: 9:00 a.m. Trinity, Mulgrave: 10:45 a.m. Hadleyville: 12:30 p.m. Dennis Haverstock Funeral Home Ltd. CANSO 902-366-2308

GUYSBOROUGH HEAD OFFICE 724 Granville Street, Port Hawkesbury, NS B9A 2N8 902-625-1911

WHYCOCOMAGH

Novena

A Prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mary

(Never known to fail.) O most beautiful ower of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in this my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me here you are my Mother. O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succor me in this necessity. ere are none that can withstand your power. Oh show me herein you are my Mother. O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee ( 3 times). Holy Mother

I place this cause in your hands ( 3 times). Holy spirit, you who solve all problems, light all roads, so that I can attain my goal. You who gave me the divine gi to forgive and forget all evil against me and that in all instances in my life you are with me. I want in this short prayer to thank you for all things as I con rm once again that I never want to be separated from you, from your mercy towards me and mine. Amen. e prayer must be said 3 days, a er the request granted and the prayer must be published. ALC

MUNICIPALITY OF THE COUNTY OF RICHMOND NOTICE

OF PUBLIC HEARING

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE THAT the Council of the Municipality of the County of Richmond intends to consider and, if deemed advisable, adopt the following planning documents:

1. Municipality of the County of Richmond Municipal Planning Strategy and Land Use By-Law in accordance with Bill 58 of the Municipal Government Act

Co i o t ta ort can be inspected at: he Municipal ce The Eastern District Planning Commission (606 Reeves Street, Unit 3, Port Hawkesbury) between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30p.m. weekdays (excluding holidays) Online at www.edpc.ca and https planeasternnova ca planrichmond

urther information may be obtained by contacting - or oll ree - -

ritten or oral presentations for or against the proposed can be made before Municipal Council at a u lic arin to be held:

ur da c r at Council C a r i a Aric at ic ond Count

Posted November th and December th, in accordance with the requirements of the Municipal Government Act.

Tourism in Richmond County

by Ann Marie Yorke

As we move along in December, we may feel a little bit of pressure as there are only 18 shopping days until Christmas. This may be hard for some people trying to decide what to get for those on your Christmas list, but no need to worry. Just come to Richmond County and we can make your shopping easy. Some gift ideas could be a gift from Glad Tidings the Christmas Shop located in St. Peter’s. If your person loves Christmas ornaments, Glad Tidings is the answer. They are sure to have the perfect item to fill your list. Other amazing gift shops that have great Christmas selection of items is Steff ‘s Celtic Shop or Timeless Florals and finds which offer beautiful gift items as well as beautiful holiday floral arrangements. Nothing says I am thinking of you, more than flowers. If you would like to give a gift to someone you know appreciates a good meal out, then purchase a gift certificate from one of our amazing restaurants and Inns. For those on your gift list who have a sweet tooth, delicious chocolates are always a perfect choice and the chocolatier at Pepperell Place makes handmade chocolate, Glad Tidings also have a great selection of chocolates to choose from. Hand crafted gifts are always appreciated, and you can find some great items of home knitted mitts, gloves and socks, hats and scarves to keep your loved one cozy and warm all winter long. If you have someone who loves to have a massage check out the local spas round Richmond and purchase a gift certificate, it is sure to be a hit. For the man on your list, a gift certificate to Home Hardware, they have perfect items for them. Hope this may offer you some ideas that can ease your struggle and see how quickly

On the entertainment scene check out this line up: Saturday, December 9 The

Annual Children’s Christmas party will take place at the L’Ardoise Community Centre with lots of Christmas themed events for the whole family it will take place following the Christmas parade at 5:30pm in L’Ardoise.   7pm: – Local favorite Jeremy White is coming back to the Lockmaster’s stage at the Bras d’Or Lakes Inn in St. Peter’s. Come join in the fun!!! Admission is $10.00.  The Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 47 will be hosting their Dance at the Grand Anse Legion, featuring the music of Eldorado. For more information contact the legion at 902-345-2610. George McPhee, at 902-631-4337, Linda Buchanan at 902345-2290, or Beverly MacRae at 902-3452395.  Sunday, December 10 8am: – Come to the Community Brunch at the Riverdale Community Centre in Lower River. Admission is $15.00 for adults and $12.00 for Children under 12 years of age. All funds go to support our local foodbanks.   8am=11am - The D’Escousse Hungryman’s Breakfast at the D’Escousse Civic Improvement Society Hall.  Cost: $12.00 for adults and $6.00 for kids aged 10 and under. Drop in and bring your appetite for a hearty community breakfast of eggs scrambled or boiled, bacon, sausage, bologna, toast, juice, coffee, tea, corn bread,  2pm – Bingo – will be held at the Royal Canadian Legion in Arichat Branch 150.  PLEASE NOTE – NO BINGO ON DECEMBER 24 & 31   Friday, December 15  4pm – 6:30pm: – Fish Fry Supper will be held at the Arichat Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 150. Eat-in or Take-out CHRISTMAS TREATS FOR KIDSVETERAN’S EAT FOR FREE,   Until next week, I hope you enjoy all that our beautiful county has to offer. For a full list of events taking place around the county please check out www.visitstpeters.com.

Baddeck resident takes home big winnings from re ghter’s 50-50 draw

by Adam McNamara adammcn33@gmail.com

Baddeck – In mid-November, resident of Baddeck, Colin LeBlanc, took home almost $200,000 from a firefighter’s draw and said supporting the worthy cause will change his family’s life.

Now and then LeBland said he would buy a ticket from the Nova Scotia Firefighter’s 50-50 draw, hosted by the Amherst Firefighter’s Association, but he stopped for the last while. So, when he bought this recent winning ticket, he said didn’t think much of it.

“I didn’t think I was going to win or anything. I was just sitting on the couch watching T.V. and my phone rang, It was at 9:30 at night, and I was wondering who would be calling me so late.”

A few minutes later he received a text telling him to check his ticket, LeBlanc then called the number back and found out he won. The department offered to courier the cheque to him, but LeBlanc, who said he was a bit nervous about it getting misplaced in the mail, was more than happy to drive to Amherst to pick up his cheque for $189, 000.

“It was an exciting day, I was in disbelief. It was a beautiful day and I took my son with me. We had a good time and drove up and picked up the cheque,” LeBlanc said.

The Amherst Fire Department was getting ready for a parade that day and LeBlanc’s son was able to check out all of the firetrucks and equipment. He

explained that as a single father the money will go a long way.

“To get it just before Christmas is just amazing,” LeBlanc said.

“I thought ‘it’s a godsend.’ Really that’s a life changing amount of money and of course it helps out the firefighters by getting the ticket. And I have a little fella too, so I was happy to get that so I could give him a really good Christmas and help out my nieces and nephews.”

LeBlanc moved to Victoria County a few years ago and has worked for the municipality since spring of 2023. He said since winning he has been able to pay off his own personal vehicle, buy a truck and plans to put a large potion away for his son’s college.

“I know he’s only young but he’s smart, so I’m hoping this will give him a good head start in life,” LeBlanc said.

“I’ll save a little bit more for future endeavors.”

LeBlanc won’t stop buying firefighter’s 50-50 tickets just yet and will see if he can get lucky again. And winning aside, he said supporting the local fire departments is the least he can do for people in the community, volunteering their time to do important work.

“I know the past summer we had all those fire bans on and everybody was so worried the fires were going to spread. So even just to help them by purchasing tickets, it helps out with better equipment. I can’t say how much of a worthy cause it is.”

A er investigations lead to nding remains, RCMP rule death in Big Bras d’Or a homicide

by Adam McNamara adammcn33@gmail.com

disappearance suspicious.

The home on Old Route 5 was secured by both RCMP and Cape Breton Regional Police officers. A search warrant was executed at the home and units were gathering information and evidence as part of the investigation.

ruled the death a homicide and, on November 29, the remains were confirmed to be those of Natacha Leroy,” RCMP stated in the release which also noted, that the “Northeast Nova RCMP Major Crime Unit is continuing to liaise with Natacha’s family and supports are being offered.”

The investigation is continuing and is being supported by the Cape Breton Regional Police Service, RCMP Forensic Identification Services, the Southwest Nova RCMP Major Crime Unit and the Victoria County District RCMP Unit.

On November 22, 203, Victoria County District RCMP responded to a report of a possible homicide at a home on Old Route 5. RCMP officers learned that Leroy had disappeared and deemed the circumstances around her

An updated press release issued by RCMP on November 30, 2023, stated that human remains were found in Big Bras d’Or by RCMP Police Dog Services on November 24, 2023.

“The Nova Scotia Medical Examiner’s Office has

RCMP are asking anyone who has information about this incident to contact them at 902-896-5060. Should anyone wish to remain anonymous, they call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers toll free at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Contributed photo Pictured is Colin LeBlanc with his son Watson LeBlanc. Colin said the money will go a long way in helping his son’s future.

Victoria County EMO encourages residents to sign up for county’s Voyent Alert System

by Adam McNamara adammcn33@gmail.com

Victoria County – Emergency Management Coordinator for Victoria County, Lyle Donovan, is hoping more people will take advantage of the county’s Voyent Alert System now that texts through wi-fi is offered as a fourth option to receive alerts.

Since first bringing the system into the county several years ago, Donovan said out of the 7000 residents in Victoria County, they’ve only had 1266 sign up so far. He said when the system was new was when they had the biggest influx of people signing up, but now that it’s been a few years in operation people have stopped signing up.

“I try to promote it. Every once in a while, I promote it on my EMO Facebook page, it’s on my email and every link I send out,” Donovan said.

The alert system is a versatile tool and has been used during hurricanes, giving updates during post-tropical storm Fiona, Donovan said. It can also be used for a variety of notifications he explained, such as road closures and detours, and not just emergency related alerts.

“We also use it for garbage removal, if such a thing there’s a storm forecast and it’s not safe for garbage removal we’ll send a notification, or in the areas that we have water systems. If a system is going to be down we’ll notify the public that way, or if there is a boil water

advisory in the near future we will notify them so we can use it along with all kinds of ways and aspects,” Donovan said.

“We like to keep the residents informed so they can make informed decisions.”

One example Donovan where the alert system could come in handy is around resident’s past concerns around the Indian Brook area where the hydro dam system is located. If one of the dams was to start leaking, explained Donovan, the Voyent Alert System would be able to alert residents quickly, where in the past someone from the county may have to go door to door.

“There’s multiple ways to get it, voice to landline, text messaging, now you can get a text message through wi-fi and you can get

an email. There’s various ways and we’ve eliminated a lot of the concern that was had for that situation,” he said.

It’s another tool for the toolbox in keeping residents informed in this age of technology said Donovan, and noted even non-residents of the county can sign up to the alert system.

“And there’s all kinds of ways to receive information now and this is just another way that we can say to the public, ‘here you go, this is the information.’ And if you really want to know the information that is going on in your area, in our municipality, there should be no shortage of avenues to find out that information.”

Residents can sign up to Voyent Alert through the Voyent Alert App or at www.victoriacounty. com/residents/emergency-services

DNRR investigating weapon discharge near intersection of Cabot Trail and Highway 105

by Adam McNamara adammcn33@gmail.com

Nyanza - After being made aware of a video circulating on social media, the Department of Natural Resources and Renewables (DNRR) is investigating an incident involving a man parking his car in the middle of the road near the red bard in Nyanza, N.S. and discharging a rifle at a deer.

DNRR Regional Enforcement Manager, Troy MacKay said he can’t speak to the specifics of the investigation, but does think there are people who might be able to provide more information. “We know there was a lot of

people around in that particular incident and none of them have called in. Just the littlest detail could bring the case together, a license plate number, a better description of the individual.”

MacKay explained there are different laws which are put in place for a reason and said “it’s to protect the resource and to protect the public as well.” He also stated several laws seemed to have been broken in the video which was circulating online.

Hunting within 30 metres of a public road is illegal said MacKay, and hunters are not allowed to have a loaded rifle until they are at least 30 metres off the road. “You have to be

at least 402 metres away from any dwelling, or house, playground, place of business. And any school is double at 804 metres and you can’t have a loaded rifle in the vehicle,” he said.

MacKay said in these situations, most times, people will contact the RCMP, but won’t reach out directly to DNRR. The department does eventually receive the reports, but getting the information in real time helps with their investigation, and in the recent case the department only found out four hours after the incident.

Often MacKay hears that the public isn’t aware of the 24-hour number to pass information along to a DNRR conservation

officer and wants the public to be aware they can call the number when witnessing incidents like this.

“People usually call 911 instead and what we’d like to get out to the public is that if the public witnesses any hunting infractions or illegal hunting activity, or if they have any information that may aid in this investigation, or any investigation we have on the go. We would ask them to call our report a poacher hotline,” said MacKay, noting people who call will speak to a live person and all tips are anonymous. The toll-free number to forward violations to a conservation officer is: 1-800-565-2224.

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Acclaimed Newfoundland author, Donna Morrissey, hosted a memoir riting workshop in Baddeck on November 26th. The theme of the workshop was “Everyone has a story to tell, what’s yours?” Pictured are the participants ho attending the riting orkshop, as ell as Donna Morrissey. From left to right Cindy Neill, Theresa MacNeil, Gwen Harwood, Donna Morrissey - holding her memoir Pluck , Pa uston, Li Cusack, Elaine Crosby, Diane Mouland.

Photo by Hughena MacDougall

Waterfront Baddeck receives

to create living shoreline

by Adam McNamara adammcn33@gmail.com

Baddeck - On November 23, 2023, it was announced Waterfront Baddeck will be receiving $300,000 in funding to design a living shoreline aimed to help protect areas from the effects of climate change. The funding is part of a provincial program, called the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund, which supports seven community-led projects from around the province. Rhonda Kay member of Waterfront Baddeck said the committee was very excited when they heard they were one of the recipients.

“This grant will allow us to design and construct a living shoreline as part of our public boardwalk reconstruction project and will help us do more advanced monitoring of the impact of climate change on Kidston Island and the boardwalk,” said Kay, explaining the decision to apply came about a er the completion of the commercial wharf. Residents became aware that

if erosion continues to happen at Kidston Island then it will also affect the harbour.

“So that’s what prompted the erosion monitoring at Kidston Island and as we got deeper into that process and started talking to more and more experts, that linked us up with a whole bunch of people from St. Mary’s, Dalhousie and Cape Breton University and they all had some good advice about where to start and how to plan for the next 50 years in both of these places,” Kay said.

Waterfront Baddeck is an advisory committee to the Village of Baddeck, advising them on all matters related to the shoreline including Kidston Island, the harbour, the wharf and in this case the boardwalk. Kay said they are going to rebuild natural areas in places that haven’t been natural for some time, right along the existing boardwalk.

“We’re going to turn it back into a created shoreline, that will have some natural elements, that will help the shoreline adapt to climate change, including rising water levels and more intense storms,” Kay said.

The shoreline will be constructed out of rocks, gravel, sand, different plants and will act as a natural shoreline and barrier between big waves. “It builds and those things continue to grow, and it creates a kind of habitat for things that should live along shorelines, but also has some sustainable resilient protection of the shoreline itself.”

Funding through the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund is available to municipalities, non-profit and community organizations, post-secondary institutions and Mi’kmaw communities to help respond to and prepare for climate change impacts, and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities was selected to develop and administer the Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund on behalf of the government.

“Communities across the province continue to experience the effects of climate change, such as extreme weather events,” said Juanita Spencer, CEO, Nova Scotia Federation of Municipalities

in a statement released on November, 23 2023. “These projects will build resilience in communities and natural habitats, make community infrastructure energy efficient, give us carbon storage research and demonstrate the power and effectiveness of locally led action on tackling climate change. We are pleased to support these homegrown solutions which will play a role in shaping a more sustainable future for all.”

The Sustainable Communities Challenge Fund was established in October of 2021, as part of the Environmental Goals and Climate Change Reduction Act. Just over $2.4 million was awarded in this first round of the program and applications for the second round of the program closed on November 28.

Waterfront Baddeck will be holding a public community engagement session to discuss the future of the boardwalk. It is open to all residents of Victoria County and will be held on December 6, 2023, from 7p.m. to 9p.m. in the MacAulay Conference Centre at the Inverary Resort.

Contributed photo

Pictured is a high-water event on the boardwalk which the living shoreline will help reduce.

Contributed photo

Pictured is an overview of the boardwalk and Kidstone Island, the funding will also help with the monitoring of erosion on the island.

Mastodon bone discovered in Middle River makes its way back home in exhibit at Highland Village

by Adam McNamara adammcn33@gmail.com

Iona - A new exhibit at the Highland Village is marking the first time a mastodon femur discovered in Middle River, N.S., has made its way back to Cape Breton since it was unearthed 190 years ago.

“It is an exhibit that doesn’t quite fit with our normal mission. However, there is some local context to it, certainly, with the mastodon femur from Middle River. It was found by a Gaelic speaking Scottish settler,” Executive Director at the Highland Village, Rodney Chaisson said of the new exhibit.

“But also, just the area around here. There’s so much of our community that has gypsum and where there is gypsum there’s certainly mastodon fossils and other types of fossils as well. So, there is that local context and the feedback is that we’re getting a lot of interest.”

The bone was discovered around 1834 by Alexander McCrae, who came across it while ploughing his fields close to a riverbank. The bone he found was the right femur of an adult mastodon, and the first mastodon bone ever found in the province.

The Age of the Mastodon exhibit at the Highland Village is an experiment with the newly developed 7700 square foot new welcome cultural centre, Chaisson explained. The purpose of the new building is to support future growth and the operations of the village. It was also designed to provide some year-round programming

which the Highland Village didn’t have the space for. Chaisson said when Natural History Museum in Halifax wanted to take the Mastodon exhibit on the road, it was a perfect chance to see how these types of exhibits fit in Iona.

“We were a good spot in Cape Breton to put it and we were certainly interested in having some off season features and certainly the timing was good for this,” he said.

Mastodons were one of the largest mammals of the ice age and around 80, 000 years ago they roamed about Nova Scotia. There are many items to take in at the exhibit, but Chaisson said the femur stands out as one of the most interesting.

“Just thinking back in 1834, what someone who was plowing their field would have thought when they came across this massive bone. And the chain of events involved in trying to get it around Cape Breton and make it to Halifax to be part of the collection,” Chaisson said.

Now the mastodon femur has made it full circle and for the first time in 190 years it’s back in Cape Breton. The exhibit also has a full-sized replica of a mastodon skeleton and other fossils found around Nova Scotia and offshore featured on display.

“So, it’s a really interesting exhibit,” Chaisson said.

The exhibit runs from November 21, 2023 to December, 20, 2023. Then from January 2, 2024 to March 15, 2024 and admission is by donation.

Baddeck Nordic Club using recreation grant for trail grooming equipment

by Drake Lowthers The Reporter drakelowthers@porthawkesburyreporter.com

BADDECK: The Baddeck Nordic Club is set to enhance the overall experience and environment when it comes to winter recreation, and that will be all thanks to the purchase of some new equipment.

The club will receive $7,097 in funding through the Community Recreational Capital Grant to purchase new trail grooming equipment.

This program, which is made possible by the Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism, and Heritage, assists in the development of small scale indoor and outdoor capital recreation projects, less than $25,000. Funding is available for up to one-third of a total project cost, to a maximum of $8,000.

“This investment in the Baddeck Nordic Club improves and promotes outdoor activities and healthy living in our community,” Victoria-The Lakes MLA

Keith Bain said. “The new trail grooming equipment will ensure that residents and visitors can enjoy well-maintained and safe winter sports facilities.”

The grant, like Bain indicated, will assist the Baddeck Nordic Club in maintaining and enhancing its trails, contributing to the development of outdoor recreational activities, and supporting the growth of winter sports in the area.

According to information from the province, the Community Recreation Capital Grant program funding must be used for public, community recreation purposes; items of a permanent, nonconsumable, capital nature; and projects where the need for financial assistance is demonstrated.

This initiative is part of the Houston government’s broader effort to ensure that Nova Scotians have access to highquality, diverse recreational facilities, fostering active lifestyles and community engagement.

Nova cotia as once an idea habitat for mastodons changing climate and coastline brought challenges leading to their e tinction

Pictured are ribs and other fossils on display. Some of the items on display at the exhibit are sea fossils and species found o shore

Photos Contributed by Highland Village Pictured is the mastodon femur which was found around by aelic speaking co sh settler, le ander Mc ae, in Middle iver, N

Photo by Hughena MacDougall. he sta at he eporter as thrilled and humbled by those in the Municipality of ictoria and the reception of the rst ictoria eporter ven this big guy came out of the woods to welcome the new community newspaper!

PUBLISHER Nicole Fawcett nicolefawcett@porthawkesburyreporter.com

EDITOR Drake Lowthers drakelowthers@porthawkesburyreporter.com

REPORTER Adam McNamara adammcn33@gmail.com

ADVERTISING Nicole Fawcett nicolefawcett@porthawkesburyreporter.com

CLASSIFIEDS, OBITUARIES, MEMORIALS, CARD OF THANKS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS admin@porthawkesburyreporter.com

DESIGNER:

Blair MacNeil

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OPINION

December 6th is about Remembrance and Action

Column by Nicole Fawcett

It has been over three decades since the murder of 14 young women at Polytechnique Montréal (December 6, 1989). The shooter fired at the female engineering students, claiming he was “fighting feminism”, and called the women “a bunch of feminists.” During his 20-minute rampage, he murdered 14 women and injured 10 other women and four men.

Many of the women today in the work force are too young to remember or were not even born when this occurred.

On December 6th in 1989, I was attending St. Mary’s University enrolled in PreArchitectural Engineering. I remember the events quite clearly. It was one of those moments you will always remember where you were when you heard the news.

In the eighties, feminists were winning victories in the fight for control of their bodies and against violence. There was growing activism across the county demanding that gender-based harassment and violence in all its forms, including partner violence, sexual assault, and workplace harassment and violence, be recognized and stopped.

When this act of violent misogyny

happened, it shook our country and led Parliament to designate December 6 as The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. We have learned a lot in the past few decades. There is still a way to go. Violence against women continues to be a serious issue in Canada. The statistics are truly disturbing:

· It is estimated that 60% of Canadian women have suffered from physical or psychological violence at some time in their life.

Aboriginal women are the most at risk group in Canada for issues related to violence:

· Aboriginal women 15 years and older are three and a half times more likely to experience violence than nonAboriginal women.

· Young Aboriginal women in Canada are five times more likely than other women of the same age to die as a result of violence. What can each of us do about violence against women? The National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women is not only about remembering those who have experienced

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

gender-based violence and those who we have lost to it. It is also a time to take action.

Achieving a Canada free from genderbased violence requires everyone to educate themselves, their families, and communities, on gender-based violence. We must listen to the voices of survivors and speak up against harmful behaviours. It is up to each of us to fight the hatred that led to this tragedy, and the misogyny that still exists today. In Canada and around the world, women, girls and 2SLGBTQI+ individuals face unacceptable violence and discrimination.

On December 6, we remember:

· Geneviève Bergeron

· Hélène Colgan

· Nathalie Croteau

· Barbara Daigneault

· Anne-Marie Edward

· Maud Haviernick

· Maryse Laganière

·

· Maryse Leclair

Anne-Marie Lemay

· Sonia Pelletier

· Michèle Richard

· Annie St-Arneault

· Annie Turcotte

· Barbara Klucznik-Widajewicz

Good to see you

On behalf of Council, as Warden, I want to extend to The Victoria Reporter a hearty “good to see you” to Victoria County!

In the true spirit of entrepreneurship you’ve shown, we welcome you to our friendly and welcoming community. Over the last year, we’ve seen many small communities, like ours, lose their local newspapers. We acknowledge The Strait Area News’ willingness to take on the risk to expand and provide residents in this County a consistent bi-weekly insert with relevant Victoria County news, classified advertising, and free community announcements.

Local printed newspapers play an important role in our

lives. Unlike online news, they build strong and connected communities by reflecting diverse views and opinions, ensure accountability and democracy, celebrate our successes, our losses, and keep the broader community conversations active and vibrant.

With an ability to advertise, The Victoria Reporter can help our small businesses down north, south, and all of Victoria County prosper while helping neighbours share stories and improve communications.

Good luck and we wish you the very best!

Fun ways to enjoy the start of winter

Winter begins on December 21, 2023, and ends on March 19, 2024. Many people lament the arrival of winter, perhaps thinking the colder temperatures and shorter hours of sunlight will compromise their chances to have fun. Even though particularly chilly thermostat readings or stormy conditions can hamper some plans, when people dig deeper they may find that even the coldest days present opportunities for enjoyment.

When winter begins, the following activities can make for an entertaining way to celebrate the arrival of the season.

• Build a snow creation. Use the first significant snowfall of the season to organize a snowman, snowwoman, or snow-animal-making event or contest. Waterproof gloves are a necessary piece of equipment, as are buckets for moving snow, shovels, carving and shaping tools (which can be plastic cutlery), and accessories to dress up the final product.

• Go sledding on the best hills. Sledding is a popular wintertime activity that doesn’t require too much equipment. Sleds can be purchased at sporting goods stores or toy stores. Sledders of all ages should consider wearing helmets to protect against injury if they will be traversing

especially steep hills.

• Host a winter block party. Many cities and towns across North America participate in WinterFest events, which run the gamut from food and cra festivals to sporting events. Individuals can take cues from these type of activities and plan neighborhood festivals right on their streets. Neighbors can wheel out their fire pits or utilize outdoor propane heaters to keep spots cozy. Hot cocoa and cider stations and warm treats can keep everyone from feeling too cold. Electric slow cookers can keep everything from soups to chilis to stews warm and participants can enjoy a buffet of hearty foods.

• Visit an ice rink. Whether a rink is indoors or outside, ice skating is a quintessential wintertime activity. Skaters of all skill levels can take to the ice and enjoy some exercise and laughs. Check local rink schedules to take advantage of open skate times when hockey games or practices are not dominating the ice.

• Mark the winter solstice. The winter solstice, also known as the start of astronomical winter, is the shortest day of sunlight on the calendar. It occurs when either of the Earth’s poles reaches maximum tilt away from the sun. In the Northern Hemisphere, this occurs on December 21, 2023. Because there will

be only roughly seven hours of daylight, take steps to make the fact that the sun will set at its earliest a little easier to swallow. Kids can run around outdoors with glow sticks, while adults can deck their homes in twinkle lights if they are not decorated for Christmas. Lanterns, campfires and candles can be lit, and everyone can gather outdoors to chat and socialize.

Winter begins on December 21, 2023, and there are plenty of ways to celebrate this fun, if sometimes frigid, season.

Bruce Morrison Victoria County Warden

ARTIST SHOWCASE

Darren Julian Painter

Darren Julian started painting as a teenager and was inspired by his artist father, James Julian. Darren lives in Wagmatcook with his wife, Amanda Julian, who is also an artist of the Friends United Initiative, as was his late mother, Sandra Simon, who was a Quill Basket maker.

arren Julian started painting as a teenager and was inspired by his artist father, James Julian. Julian lives in Wagmatcook with his wife, Amanda, Julian, who is also an artist of the Friends United Initiative, as was his deceased mother, Sandra Simon.

Darren and Rolf Bouman met in 2011 after Rolf had founded the Friends United Initiative to assist Indigenous peoples. Rolf was able to help Darren start a small gallery where Darren sells his artwork along with his wife’s paintings.

Darren Julian met Rolf Bouman in 2011 when Rolf purchased one of his paintings. Rolf was able to help Darren start a small gallery where Darren sells his artwork along with his wife’s paintings.

Darren likes to paint faces, people, sceneries, and animals. He has developed his own very spiritual style, as has his wife Amanda and his mother, Sandra, in her career. Darren likes to tell stories of the Mi’kmaq people and their history through his artwork. It is his goal to inspire younger generations and to help create reconciliation and peace dialogue. This is why he and his family joined the Friends United Initiative.

Darren likes to paint faces, people, scenics and animals. He has developed his own very spiritual style, as has his wife Amanda and his mother, Sandra in her career. Darren likes to tell stories of the Mi’kmaq people through his artwork.

Mi’kmaq Painter

WE’REHERE BECAUSE OFYOU!

AtMacLeodHouseBaddeck,we’resograteful forourwonderfulcommunitythatcontribute tothecareandsupportofourresidents.

FromVictoriaCountyHospitalandthe ContinuingCareAssociationtotheBaddeck Libraryandthemanyotherswhosharetheir timeandtalentwithus,THANKYOU!

Becauseofyou,andourphenomenalteam,our residentsarealwayssmilingandhavingfun.

How to create a durable gingerbread house Crunchy pie a dessert winner

Gingerbread cookies and houses are one of the many symbols of the holiday season, alongside Christmas trees and twinkling lights. In fact, few confections symboli e the holidays more so than gingerbread.

Many a child (or a child at heart) has spent hours carefully trying to create decorative gingerbread houses Although gingerbread recipes span various cultures, gingerbread houses originated in 16th century Germany. The fairy tale “Hansel and Gretel” helped solidify the popularity of gingerbread, which became part of Christmas traditions Even though gingerbread houses can be fun to make, there’s no denying it can be e acting ork especially for those ho strive for perfection Prepackaged kits attempt to take some of the guesswork out of the equation, but those ho are crafting from scratch can employ these tips as they build their gingerbread houses.

o for form and not avor e gingerbread houses ever get eaten, so focus on nding a dough that ill bake up rock hard as opposed to one that tastes good.

Get the right icing texture. Pastry artist Catherine Beddall says royal icing is the preferred “glue” to adhere gingerbread pieces. Beddall says icing

should be thick like peanut butter and not runny.

Mind the dough. Do not roll out the gingerbread dough too thin or it may become brittle after being cooked

Always cut out shapes before the gingerbread is baked. Let the baked pieces sit overnight to cool completely before using them to build.

Patience is key llo the icing to dry for at least a couple of hours after adhering each piece and before moving and handling the house, says Beddall. Work in stages so that individual items can be decorated and allowed to dry. Then the walls can be put together, followed by the roof pieces.

Kids likely will need help. Children may not have the patience or steadiness to handle complete gingerbread construction hey can decorate the separate pieces of the house while the components are laying at, hich is easier for kids. Adults can do the main assembly later on.

Utili e a template ree-handing may not be easy. Cut out templates using cardboard or posterboard for various gingerbread pieces.

ne of the most important tips is to have fun. Don’t take gingerbread house making too seriously as a novice ather, en oy the e perience and the centuries-old tradition

Crunchy pie a dessert winner Amazing

Entertaining opportunities abound during the holiday season. Whether you are hosting a small group at home or have been invited to someone’s house to socialize, offering a homemade treat can show others how much you care. Few people can resist the combination of chocolate and nuts, and that’s what dessert lovers will get in this recipe for “Chocolate Crumble Pie,” which features toasted pecans along with amaretti cookies in the topping. Enjoy, courtesy of “Chocolate” (Love Food) by the editors at Parragon Books Ltd.

Chocolate Crumble Pie Serves 8

Pie Dough

Scant 11/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

1/4 cup superfine sugar

1 egg yolk

1 to 2 teaspoons cold water

Filling

2⁄3 cup heavy cream

2⁄3 cup milk

8 ounces semisweet chocolate, chopped 2 eggs

Crumble Topping

1/2 cup packed brown sugar

3/4 cup toasted pecans

4 ounces semisweet chocolate

3 ounces amaretti cookies

1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa

To make the pie dough, sift the flour and baking powder into a large bowl, rub in the butter, and stir in the sugar, then add the egg and a little water to bring the dough together. Turn the dough out, and knead briefly. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375 F. Roll out the pie dough and use to line a 9-inch loose-button tart pan. Prick the pastry shell with a fork. Line with parchment paper and fill with dried beans or baking beans. Bake in the oven for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven and take out the paper and beans. Reduce the oven temperature to 350 F.

To make the filling, bring the cream and milk to a boil in a saucepan, immediately remove from the heat, and add the chocolate. Stir until melted and smooth. Beat the eggs and add to the chocolate mixture, mix thoroughly and pour into the shell. Bake for 15 minutes, remove from the oven, and let rest for 1 hour. When you are ready to serve the pie, place the topping ingredients in a food processor and pulse to chop. (If you do not have a processor, place the sugar in a large bowl, chop the nuts and chocolate with a large knife, and crush the cookies, then add to the bowl with the cocoa and mix well.) Sprinkle over the pie, then serve it in slices.

Your Community Calendar

We will post the event, date, and time at no charge. Non pro t organizations only. Space is limited and there are no guarantees for free listings.

WEDNESDAY DEC. 6

-Boardwalk Workshop at the MacAulay Conference Centre, Inverary Resort, Baddeck. 7:00pm-9:00pm.

THURSDAY DEC. 7

-Lego Drop-In at the Baddeck Library, 520 Chebucto St., Baddeck. 3:00pm-4:30pm.

-Talks and Docs at the Baddeck Library, 520 Chebucto St., Baddeck. 6:30pm.

FRIDAY DEC. 8

-Morning Meditation at the Baddeck Library, 520 Chebucto St., Baddeck. 9:00am-

10:00am.

-Creative Meet-Up at the Baddeck Library, 520 Chebucto St., Baddeck. 1:00-3:00pm.

-Chase the Ace at the Baddeck Legion, 37 Ross St., Baddeck. 6:00pm-9:00pm

-Pastoral Air Concert at the Washabuck Church. 7:00pm

SATURDAY DEC. 9

-Annual Christmas Market at the Cape North Fire Hall. Big breakfast, craft tables, music and more. 9:00am-12:30pm.

TUESDAY DEC. 12

-Lively Larks – Bring your little ones for playtime, stories and more, to the Baddeck Library, 520 Chebucto St., Baddeck. 10:30am.

-Tuesday Night Films at the Baddeck Library, 520 Chebucto St., Baddeck. 6:30pm Wednesday Dec. 13

THURSDAY DEC. 14

-Lego Drop-In at the Baddeck Library, 520 Chebucto St., Baddeck. 3:00pm-4:30pm.

-Talks and Docs at the Baddeck Library, 520 Chebucto St., Baddeck. 6:30pm.

FRIDAY DEC. 15

-Morning Meditation at the Baddeck Library, 520 Chebucto St., Baddeck. 9:00am10:00am.

-Creative Meet-Up at the Baddeck Library, 520 Chebucto St., Baddeck. 1:00-3:00pm.

-Chase the Ace at the Baddeck Legion, 37 Ross St., Baddeck. 6:00pm-9:00pm

SATURDAY DEC. 16

-Drive-in Presentation of Living Nativity at the Bell Museum Parking Lot, Baddeck. 6:00pm. -Annual Christmas Dance at the

Middle River Community Hall. 9:00pm-1:00am.

SUNDAY DEC. 17

-Drive-in Presentation of the Living Nativity at the Bell Museum Parking Lot, Baddeck. 6:00pm.

TUESDAY DEC. 19

-Lively Larks – Bring your little ones for playtime, stories and more, to the Baddeck Library, 520 Chebucto St., Baddeck. 10:30am.

-Tuesday Night Films at the Baddeck Library, 520 Chebucto St., Baddeck. 6:30pm

902-625-3300 | admin@porthawkesburyreporter.com | Events and times are subject to change without notice

Crossword puzzle

PUZZLES & MORE

ACROSS

1.Sudden notion

5.Middle Eastern bread

9.Fitness center

12.Roof projection

13.Skip

14.Cut down

15.Tinted

16.Faster

18.Fruit beverage

20.Dark

21.Mexican dish

24.Angry fury

27.Mr. Chaney

28.Extra

30.Actor Patel

33.Away from home

34.Term of respect

35.Dentist’s org.

36.Not con

37.Legal excuse

38. Tree

39.As well

40.Crazy

42.In two parts

45.Relations

46.Certain fruit pastry

50.Frosty

54.Larry and Curly’s chum

55.Vice President Al ____

56.Fast-food order

57.Come to a close

58.October gemstone

59.Verge

I am an animal expert and conservationist born in Australia on December 1, 2003. I first came into the limelight when I appeared on my father ’s reality show. I followed in my famous parents’ professional footsteps and co-host a television show about animals.

Puzzles & More Answers

Crossword Solution Sudoku

DOWN 1.Married

2.Dried grass

3.“____ Got to Be Me”

4.Purple Heart, e.g.

5.Work as a model

6.Small demon

7.Even score

8.Dined

9.Lower-leg front

10.Quick look

11.Crooked

17.Spotted playing cube

19.Dreary

21.Horse-hoof’s sound

22.Time measure

23.Division preposition

24.Wireless set

25.Fast steed

26.Zodiac sign

29.Close friends

30.Foolish

31.Red-pencil text

32.Change

39.“Open ____ Night”

41.Join

42.Sir’s wife

43. “It Came ____ a Midnight Clear”

44.Parodied

45.Ship’s spine

47.Self-regard

48.Father

49.Pension plan: abbr.

51.Ocean fish

52.It came first?

53.Female deer

Victoria County Councillor, Paul MacNeil, awarded eagle feather for work done over the years with CEPI

by Adam McNamara adammcn33@gmail.com

Victoria County - The annual Muiwatmnej Etuaptmumk Conference was held from November 13 - 15, 2023 in Membertou, N.S. and among different recognitions, Paul MacNeil, councillor for District One in Victoria County received an eagle feather for his work with the Bras d’Or Collaborative Environmental Planning Initiative (CEPI).

“It was a great honour,” MacNeil said. “I was invited down to the gala dinner and they basically said they wanted to recognize me for the involvement I had with CEPI over the years.”

MacNeil, who has been working with CEPI for over 14 years now in different elements, said when they told him about the recognition he didn’t expect to receive the eagle feather.

“They called me up on the stage and presented me with an eagle feather. Just knowing the significance of the eagle feather, it was quite the honour. And actually, it was emotional when they gave it to me too,” said MacNeil, noting Dan Christmas, former senator, also received an eagle feather for his important work with the organization.

“Also working with Stan Johnson as coordinator and the people at CEPI over the years has been great. They realize the important of the lakes and that we have to look after them.”

CEPI Coordinator, Stan Johnson, said MacNeil is one of the driving forces on CEPI’s management committee, which Johnson explains is the “engine of the whole organization,” and said the recognition was well deserved.

“It’s a high honour and that’s how we feel about Paul. He’s always been there for us and has always been a great support of not just CEPI, but all Mi’kmaq people and he’s really close to the community as well,” Johnson said.

“Paul is a special individual. You can always count on Paul for anything that is going on with CEPI.”

The theme of this year’s event was understanding the concept of two-eyed seeing and its relevance to today’s world. Through presentations and events, attendees saw how two-eyed seeing is being used in numerous fields and how it can bridge the gap between Indigenous knowledge and modern science.

“We always talked about two-eyed seeing and reconciliation and him with the Gaelic people and us with the Mi’kmaq, we’ve always worked together,” Johnson said.

Two-eyed seeing is a concept that MacNeil said works and has positive impacts on sustainability and cultural preservation. There’re many initiatives which CEPI is doing which MacNeil said he’s proud to be part of such as; forestry projects and species

at risk projects. He also emphasized how nice it was to bring back the golden awards at the recent event, where different individuals were recognized for what they did around the lake.

“With CEPI it’s different levels of

Highlands Hostel prepares for Christmas in the Cape Breton Highlands

by Adam McNamara adammcn33@gmail.com

Cape North - Owner of Highlands Hostel located in Cape North, N.S., Bricin-Striker-Lyons, said the holiday season is always important to the four-season establishment and this year they’re able to share it with someone from away.

Noriko Minami is from Japan and she arrived in Canada on November, 27, 2023 and will be spending the holiday season at the hostel working.

“Her first experience here in Canada from Japan is this massive tree we just got, so she’s going to help us decorate it. We’re training her and she’s going to be here for a month, so she’ll be here for Christmas,” Lyon’s said.

Minami said she’s “very much looking forward to experiencing a real Christmas with my host family and guests, including Christmas food and decorations.”

This is the seventh year the Highlands Hostel is celebrating Christmas since opening and Lyon’s said many people come from all over the world to help out during the different seasons.

“It’s cool because they mingle well with travellers coming from around the world and there’s friendships made and bonds.”

Each year a tree measuring around 20-feet is put up in the hostel to compete with towns and cities who put their own up. “We like to put up a big tree on Cape Breton Island here, because we’re in Cape North and it’s kind of like we’re in the Cape North Pole,” Lyons said.

LOOKING

On November 28, 2023, the tree was put up in the main living room of the hostel and it normally is a picture-perfect tree, but Lyons said the one him and his team brought back this year “is just the wildest tree I’ve ever seen. So, it’s going to be a lot of fun to decorate. It’s a wild one.”

Lyon’s is also a big name in the North American downhill skateboarding scene and regularly posts videos on his social media of adventures which the folks at the hostel get up to. Recently he posted the journey of hauling their 20-foot tree into the establishment.

“It adds an extra three or four hours to my night a er everybody goes to bed, but it’s worth it when you wake up and see everybody laughing and sharing it and having fun with it,” Lyon’s said.

As winter activities get more common throughout the area, Lyon’s is noticing their hostel is being used by other businesses to host events, or as a mid-way point on a trip.

“It’s because we’re in the middle of a national park and only a half hour from Meat Cove. And there’s a lot of hiking and snow shoeing between here and meat cove, so we get lots of businesses and repeat visitors,” Lyons said.

A big reason he was able to keep his business going when first trying to make things work, Lyon’s said, was help from the local food bank in Cape Smokey. He said all food banks are especially important during Christmas and encourages anyone who can, to give when they can.

“The first year we ran this, we had times with no money and we had to use the food bank twice and it saved us. So that’s one thing we do here, is creating awareness for that food bank.”

government working together. So, it’s important work and everybody works together, it’s basically a form of truth a reconciliation,” MacNeil said.

“It really was a great honour to be recognized.”

Paul MacNeil is sho n receiving his eagle feather at Mui atmne tuaptmumk Conference held in Membertou, N.S. from November 13-15, 2023, where the theme was twoeyed seeing.

Newly formed St. James – Knox Presbyterian Church donates portion from sale of building to local community groups

by Adam McNamara adammcn33@gmail.com

Ross Ferry – Two Presbyterian churches which have been moving toward amalgamation for the past year sold one of their buildings and donated a portion of the sale to different community groups, turning a difficult decision into a happy memory.

Up until this May, Reverend Peter MacDonald served two congregations, one in Big Bras D’oR and another in Ross Ferry. A er dwindling membership, the people making up the congregation felt they couldn’t maintain the two buildings much longer, leaving them with two options.

“So, you can dissolve the congregation, or you amalgamate with another congregation and whatever assets you have as a congregation become part of the new congregation,” MacDonald said.

In this case the two congregations joined, forming the St. James – Knox Presbyterian Church located in Big Bras D’oR. This meant they had an extra building in Ross Ferry.

“And the building had to be sold. We had it decommissioned, so it’s not a religious space anymore, it’s just a building and we sold it. And we were very fortunate that it went a little above we were hoping for,” MacDonald said.

According to Presbyterian tradition, once a property is sold, such as a church, the plan for how the money will be used must be declared.

“It’s not really okay as a congregation to keep all the money unless you say where it’s all going. Ideally you have to keep a portion of it, but put some of it toward local community groups, or charities,” he said.

On November 26, 2023 the congregation held a celebration at the St. James – Knox Church and made donations to groups such as; The Ross Ferry Stewardship Society, The Boularderie Food Bank, two cemeteries for ongoing upkeep, Presbyterian run Camp MacLeod, an overseas disaster relief fund, and

the Ross Ferry Fire Department. Michelle Symes, Deputy Chief of Ross Ferry Volunteer Fire Department, said the department was “very happy to hear they were chosen and very grateful” for the donation of $1000.

“So, they had a beautiful service at the church, they had a fiddler and pianist in the choir, and it was just a beautiful service of the two churches coming together. And then at the end of the service they called us up for

the cheques. As soon as I saw the amount on the cheque, I knew it would help,” Symes said, noting with a new firefighter completing their level one training at the department means purchasing new gear.

“So, I knew that would probably go toward helping pay for his new gear.”

The celebration marked just about a year from when the decision to first amalgamate was made by the congregation, which was a hard decision for a lot of folks, explained

MacDonald.

“And it was nice to bring some good from a hard decision, which made the decision less hard to look at,” he said.

“In our tradition the building, in many respects, is just a building and the church is the people and those people are still there. So, they had been supported so well in the past at that building and they wanted to turn that back over to the people, and that was part of what we were able to do.”

everend MacDonald, pictured along ith the congregation at t ames - no Presbyterian Church, said they supported di erent initiatives including , hich ent to a disaster relief fund