PHR July 12 2023

Community group, municipality await consolidation outcome

by Drake Lowthers The Reporter drakelowthers@porthawkesburyreporter.com

ANTIGONISH:

Let Antigonish Decide has had their day in court and their fate is in the hands of the presiding judge.

The people’s legal challenge, to the Municipality of the County of Antigonish, was heard before Justice Anthony Gabriel, in the Supreme Court of Nova Scotia on July 7.

According to information provided by the grassroots group, they have challenged the county council’s right to ask the provincial government to prepare special consolidation legislation that would circumvent and override legitimate legislation in the Municipal Government Act (MGA) for amalgamation of municipalities.

Donald MacDonald, a local Antigonish lawyer appeared before Justice Gabriel on behalf of the residents; Robert Grant and John Shanks, who are Halifax-based lawyers appeared for the county.

“We are pleased that Justice Gabriel has decided to reserve his decision and we believe that he will give full consideration to all of the information presented before him,” Anne-Marie Long said. “We have absolute confidence that our lawyer had wellrepresented the people of Antigonish. He has ensured that our objections to the proposed fundamental change in how we are governed have been completely articulated.”

Let Antigonish Decide wants to ensure that all residents of Antigonish and the affected politicians realize they know that the final outcome in this matter rests with Premier Tim Houston, and MLAs Michelle Thompson and Greg Morrow, along with other members of the Houston government, the warden, mayor and councilors.

“We will hold them accountable to listen to their constituents,” Long said.

Following their court appearance, correspondence from the Municipality of the County of Antigonish advised the applicants are applying to the court for an order, pursuant to Section 189 of the MGA, quashing the resolution adopted by councillors on Oct. 20, 2022.

“County council remains confident in its decision to request consolidation with the Town of Antigonish and looks forward to working with the town to move this process forward,” the county said in a release.

As for what’s next while they await the decision, Long suggested Let Antigonish Decide will not remain idle during this period.

“Whether or not the decision on this case is in our favour, has no significant effect on our continued

quest to ensure that the Houston government listens to the overwhelming number of Antigonish residents,” Long said. “And that it does not grant a request to the town and county for “special legislation” that would override current legislation for mergers under the MGA.”

She would like to see the government remain focused on its priorities of heath care, housing and immigration – noting additional retirements in the Health Care staff, and additional housing needs resulting from the fires in our province, have only added to their challenges.

“We are fully aware that the Houston government has not seen fit to allow a request for “special legislation” to come before the legislature,” Long said. “We believe that the premier stands by the position he took in 2018, for Pictou, on the Liberal plan to reduce municipalities, after it had done a job on the Health Authorities and school boards.”

The group believes the mayor and warden have been obsessed with pushing ahead on consolidation with the assistance of Municipal Affairs staff, highlighting, to date, they have refused to request a “study” from that UARB that would normally be conducted to determine whether a merger is in the best interests of the people.

The questions that need to be answered quickly include: 1. Do the town and county plan to play “Russian Roulette” with the timelines needed to conduct meaningful studies under Section 369 of the MGA regarding municipal council size and district boundary issues? 2. What is the UARB doing to ensure that fairness, of the legislated boundary review process, is addressed to ensure that the people are heard, that the UARB itself has enough time to do its review process of the recommendations from the town and county councils, and how will the UARB, and the provincial government, ensure the pre-election requirements under the Municipal Elections Act can be addressed in a timely manner?

“Lack of public trust in our municipal governments was clearly identified in the “What We Heard Report” in September of 2022. I submit that it has significantly worsened by the secrecy and unfairness in a process where nine people have presumed to determine that they have the right to impose their views on how we will be governed in the long term, and long after they are out of office,” Long said.

“Their continuous attempts to discount the informed wishes of the majority of the town and county residents, demonstrates their inability to understand the critical factors that influence public confidence in the administration of justice.”

Gammons top premier dancer at Highland Games

Photo contributed by Antigonish Highland Games. Eilidh Gammons of Scotland, was the inaugural winner of the Gerarda MacDonald / Janice MacQuarrie Trophy, presented to the top premier dancer of the weekend who accumulates the most points in the Championship and Premiership events at the Antigonish Highland Games.

Different local organizations say membership lacks “newer generation”

by Adam McNamara

STRAIT AREA: Members of different local community organizations are saying new membership would not only be helpful to their groups, but the local community as well.

Paul Boudreau belongs to the Isle Madame Food Bank and other service groups around the Strait Area and said lately he notices a lack of younger people volunteering in organizations.

“One of the problems that I’ve noticed over the years and lately, is that we’re thinking old school,” Boudreau said.

“We need younger blood to think different, to think outside of the box and come up with new ideas. It’s hard to retrain the line, we need younger people coming in.”

Currently they’re not in dire need of volunteers at the Isle Madame Food Bank because of a recent volunteer drive, but Boudreau said some service organizations he belongs to are suffering.

Boudreau won volunteer of the month for the Municipality of Richmond in April, 2023 and said he understands that it’s usually the case that younger people can’t volunteer in the day time during working hours. However, he said people may be able to find something that is happening in the evening they are interested in.

Boudreau learned a lot of skills in some organizations that he was able to pass on in other groups; such as learning how to properly conduct a meeting and create by-laws. He said local organizations oftentimes help grow the community and municipalities.

“A lot of these organizations will teach you Robert’s Rules of Order and prepare you to be able to run meetings in all different settings, so they’re good for people to join,” he said.

“If you want to rescind a motion in a meeting for example,

The

a lot of efforts over the years and once hosted a 50-km run when the Olympic Torch came through Richmond and Inverness.

there’s certain ways to do it, there’s certain motions.”

Another volunteering issue Boudreau has been noticing, is there’s a lot of people who are willing to do things, but aren’t willing to go to all the meetings.

“There’s a lot of people who are willing to do things but aren’t willing to go to all the meetings,” said Boudreau.

Adam Rodgers is President of the Rotary Club International in Port Hawkesbury, which is largely responsible for the Port Hawkesbury playground, local high school bursaries and known nationally for leading the fight against polio.

Rodgers said he hopes the lull in new volunteers is just temporary and said “I think it’s an after effect of the pandemic when people were inside the homes and got out of their routine of volunteering.”

A board member of Engage Nova Scotia as well, Rodgers says a few years ago Engage Nova Scoyia did a study which found one of the key drivers of high quality of life was communities that have strong organizations.

“It’s such an important part of the community to have volunteers and strong community organizations for a high quality of life for the people who live here, but also for attracting new people, whether that’s professional’s like doctor’s or anyone who might be moving back, having those strong organizations is vital.”

Rodgers says two things need to happen; people need to get back into what they want to do and revaluate what they want to do.

“It’s important that the next generation join and volunteer in these organizations. Sometimes it feels like it’s difficult because people have families and life is busy, but it really is a fulfilling part of your day,” said Rodgers.

“And something that is a change from the rest of your life and the rest of your day and can give your life more meaning and fulfillment.”

StFX undergraduate students present research at National Political Science Conference

ANTIGONISH: Two StFX students—Nick Bremner (political science) and Kaytland Smith (public policy and governance)—were among the presenters this year when the Canadian Political Science Association held its annual national conference at York University.

The experience, they say, had great impact.

“The ability to present at the conference as an undergraduate student allowed me to gain a unique early experience and I was even able to meet authors whose works I had previously read for classes at StFX,” Bremner said, a fourth year honours political science student from Digby, who has been working with StFX political science professor Nathan Allen.

Allen initially hired Bremner as a research assistant on a SSHRC-funded project examining emigrant voting rights throughout the world.

“As part of that project, we decided to look at the spread of emigrant voting rights to Canada,” Allen said. “Given that I was relying heavily on Nick’s deep knowledge of the relevant materials – court cases, committee meetings, and so on - it made sense to write the paper as a collaboration.”

The professor says the paper, entitled “Negotiated Emulation and Emigrant Enfranchisement in Canada,” addresses the influence that the global trend toward emigrant enfranchisement had on decision-making within Canada.

“Parliament officially extended the right to vote to nonresident Canadians in 1993, and in 2019 the Supreme Court removed lingering restrictions on Canadians’ right to participate from abroad,” Allen said. “The paper traces the way Canadian decision-makers were inspired to ‘keep up’ or ‘lead’ in the area of voting rights, and the debate that reform generated.”

Bremner says attending the CPSA Conference at York University was a unique and meaningful experience, indicative of the opportunities political science students have at StFX.

“Thanks to this opportunity, I now know what to expect

at similar conferences moving forward, and I was able to meet many people who work in the political science field. This experience is indicative of the unique opportunities that students have in the Political Science Department at StFX. Working alongside a professor on a paper and then presenting our findings at a conference was not something I had imagined doing while first arriving at StFX, but I am very happy to have had this experience! My thanks to Dr. Allen for the opportunity!”

LIFE-ALTERING EXPERIENCE

Smith says presenting “Childcare in Transition: A Case Study on the Shift to a Public Model of Care in Nova Scotia” at the conference was a great point of pride.

She had received a Centre for Employment Innovation (CEI) Research Mentorship award in summer 2022 and worked under the supervision of Rebecca Wallace, a political science professor and Mila Mulroney Research Chair in Women, Policy and Governance Leadership in the Brian Mulroney Institute of Government. Their work examined the impact of the Canada-wide child care agreement on child care owners and workers in the province of Nova Scotia.

“Dr. Wallace’s believing in me and providing an avenue to explore this research topic and subsequent paper(s) has provided me with self-confidence in my abilities as an academic, professional, and overall, a voice with merit within the field,” Smith said. “When a professor agrees to take on a student researcher, they provide them with skills and guidance to learn about a career in research and academia and to determine if it is a field they wish to pursue. When that professor sees the value in sharing research with a student, they provide more than just guidance; they give that student their first experience of validation for this type of work.”

“Had Dr. Wallace not seen the value in me as a person and researcher, I would never have thought myself ready to take on such important work. Her choice to uplift me and guide me through this process –not just as a student—but as a

worthy peer is life-altering. This experience validated that all the work and debt associated with attending university is worth it – this work is worth it – it matters and makes a difference – and under Dr. Wallace’s guidance, I can be part of that difference. Her impact on me and my life cannot be overstated; she changed my life, and for that I will forever be grateful. Beyond the amazingness of the experience itself is the incredible life impact of having someone I respect and admire, Dr. Wallace, see me as worthy of her time and effort and go out of her way to help me succeed. I cannot thank her enough for this experience and beyond that, for her grace, friendship, and kindness over the years – its invaluable.”

Smith says this project will help prepare her for completing her undergraduate degree and pursuing a career in policy analysis. “My long-term goals include continuing research with a focus on women’s issues at the master’s level. I was awarded research funding to explore barriers to women staying in politics, and I feel that this research will be a vital component of this future study.”

Under Wallace’s supervision, she conducted interviews with child care owners that revealed some of the challenges they faced with transitioning to the new child care policy. The interviews were so impactful that Wallace suggested they apply to present at CPSA. The proposed paper was accepted as part of the public administration section of the conference and the Brian Mulroney Research Centre sponsored Smith’s participation in the conference.

Wallace says she felt strongly about Smith attending the conference.

“This was a really valuable opportunity for Kaytland to not only get feedback on our paper, but to practice advanced research presentation skills and network with a wide range of academics and professionals that can continue to help her as she looks toward graduate school. StFX is a strong research institution, and it is important that we showcase our very talented and driven students among our scholarly community.”

Photo by Adam McNamara.

Port Hawkesbury Rotary Club has supported

Inverness County council passes yearly budget and discusses housing program aimed at healthcare workers

by Adam McNamara

PORT HOOD: The Municipality of Inverness held their latest council session on July 6, and approved their operating budget for the year.

Total expenses for this fiscal year, April 2023 to April 2024, came out to be $22.6 million. The biggest expenses were mandatory provincial contributions at $7.8 million, environmental health services at $4.9 million and $2.8 million to general government services.

“The mandatory contributions to the province of Nova Scotia make up 34.2 percent of our budget,” CAO Keith MacDonald said.

Each year the province requires all municipalities to make a mandatory contribution to services including education, policing, corrections and provincial roads.

Among the mandatory contributions, $3.9 million to the Strait Region Centre for Education and $3.2 million to the RCMP make up the biggest contributions.

Council also passed a motion to keep municipal tax rates the same this year. Property tax is the largest revenue source and this the municipality will see 86 percent of their revenue come from this tax.

The CAO also gave an update on the reason for a delay in sending out this year’s tax bills and said residents can expect them soon.

“We have a sorter that has been working for some time which takes 21,000 envelopes and it chose to break down this year,” said MacDonald.

“So, this year we’ve asked a number of the staff to volunteer.”

CAO MacDonald said they’re now starting to get all bills out by mail and residents should receive them by next

Inaugural Antigonish tri-council meeting long overdue

Conversation takes place between town, county and Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation

by Drake Lowthers The Reporter drakelowthers@porthawkesburyreporter.com

ANTIGONISH: For the first time ever, three local municipal units, including one Indigenous community, met to discuss their past, present and futures with one another.

The meeting, which took place on June 26, featured council members and staff from the Municipality of the County of Antigonish, Paqtnkek Mi’kmaw Nation, and the Town of Antigonish.

The meeting began with an overview of the history between the three entities and the progress that has been made on strengthening the relationship between Paqtnkek and the county over the past few years.

A partnership between the county and Paqtnkek progressed to the signing of the Friendship and Peace Accord or the Anku’kamkewey Accord on May 5, 2018. The document is a commitment to collaborate and support one another as neighbours on community economic and social development.

“Collaboration is key to regional development,” Warden Owen McCarron said in a release. “Building on our relationships and having this meeting was a huge step in achieving that collaboration.”

During the Anku’kamkewey: Stronger Together, a First Nation-Municipal Regional Economic Development Forum that took place in May 2019, inspiring conversations took place and FirstNation-municipal economic development initiatives were identified such as building a more flexible labour pool, creating more solar energy projects, and creating more cultural and eco-tourism opportunities.

“The forum was a great success and I think we were on our way to actioning some of [the] opportunities identified but then unfortunately COVID reached Nova Scotia and priorities had to shift. Projects, like for example, a tourism strategy, were put on hold,” McCarron explained. “We want to get back on track and take a regional approach to achieving our priorities.”

While the town was supportive of the initiatives during the initial stages of the partnership, they feel it’s time for all three entities to come together and explore how to be stronger together.

“We all realize relationship building is really important to our area and none other more important than the relationship with our neighbours,” Mayor Laurie Boucher told The Reporter. “We

week, noting he appreciated the work from the staff during this time which was also echoed by Warden MacIsaac.

During correspondence a program for modular housing directed at health care workers was brought up. Staff say they are having difficulty receiving information back from provincial departments on the program that was announced.

The CAO said the announcement stated the community of Inverness was being looked at for this program, it came to a surprise and they’ve been trying to grab the opportunity ever since.

“That announcement came unbeknownst to the municipality. We weren’t informed of that prior to the announcement and we’ve had to then reach out to the province to get more information about the program and how it works,” MacDonald said.

CAO MacDonald told council staff did meet with some provincial staff, outlining

some spaces “that could be options within the community of Inverness for this program.”

He said the non-profit entity that is managing the program is located in Halifax and have no board members or staff outside of Halifax. The county doesn’t have much of a connection to them despite sending out correspondence to them.

“So, we’re still waiting. We put that package together some time ago, we forwarded it to the Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing as well as our local MLA to ensure that both are aware that the municipality has done our due diligence at our chance for this initiative.”

Councillor Chisholm directed staff to follow up with the appropriate parties and return back to council with updates.

The next meeting for the Municipality of Inverness is July 20, 2023 at 9:30a.m.

sincerely want to do more for our three communities. We can be more than land recognitions and [flag raisings]. We want to have more dialogue, to work together, and expand our relationships.”

The mayor advises she feels extremely privileged to be sitting around that particular table, as the successes of the partnership of the county and Paqtnkek are evident.

“To have been part of that is an honour. I really believe the town can add to the discussions as well,” Boucher said. “And I look forward to having more meetings and partnering on projects going forward.”

To better understand each communities current priorities, Warden McCarron, Mayor Boucher and Chief Cory Julian, each provided summaries of their council’s current initiatives, which provided an opportunity to identify priorities that overlapped and could be developed together.

“Being in a room together allows us to learn about our current priorities so we have an idea on what everyone is working on to better understand each other,” Chief Julian said in a release. “Paqtnkek has grown so much over the past few years. Our community wants to expand our partnerships, including strengthening our relationships with our neighbours, the county and the town.”

While consolidation was spoken on, throughout the meeting, particular themes were identified including housing, development of the labour force, tourism, emergency management coordination, green energy, and community economic development.

There was also a resounding overarching theme that by learning and working together, the entire community is strengthened and succeeds.

“Once we were in the same room, it didn’t take long to realize that challenges one council faces are not much different from the others,” Chief Julian said. “For example, we know climate change impacts us more than ever before with water shortages and severe storms. Simple actions like joint training opportunities for members of our emergency management organizations is a win for our communities.”

The discussions going forward are to see where they can work together to make sure all three communities succeed together by taking walls down.

“I look at how far we have come to improve the lives of our residents,” Chief Julian said. “And look forward to what comes next.”

Residents respond as carbon tax hits at the pump: New federal measures aim to wean province off fossil fuels

by Lois Ann Dort Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Guysborough Journal

GUYSBOROUGH: Nova Scotians got an unwanted Canada Day present this year with the implementation of the federal government’s carbon tax, which saw prices at the pump jump $0.16 per litre.

In a June 29 news release about the carbon tax – which will also increase the cost of home heating oil, propane and other fossil fuels – Premier Tim Houston said, “Nova Scotians are concerned about this new federal tax and how it will increase the cost of everything – food, clothing, over-the-counter medicine, building our homes and more…We have the same goal as the federal government – to reduce our carbon emissions – but Nova Scotia’s plan doesn’t require taxing people. We are asking the federal government, once again, to work with us and not raise the price of everything for Nova Scotians.”

While the province is worried about the potential negative impact the carbon tax will have on the economy, the public is bracing for impact as the trend of rising prices sees no signs of reversing. The Journal spoke to motorists at the gas pumps in Guysborough on June 30, the day before the price hike went into effect, to gauge consumer reaction to the carbon tax and the potential impact it will have on day-to-day life in rural Nova Scotia.

Michael Morrison, of Morrison J M Backhoe & Trucking, was filling up his work vehicle and told The Journal the increase in fuel cost wouldn’t impact him much, but it would impact the people who hire him, “Because what I have to do is charge it to the customer; that’s the killer. I feel bad for the last person [on the supply chain]. I have to buy it to work. I’ve got no choice, but I feel bad for the poor customer.”

Morrison estimates he burns $50,000 a year in fuel. He said of the carbon tax, “We have no choice I guess…I realize we need to be greener, but how do we get there? Do we kill people getting there? People are going to go hungry. The farmers need to have fuel; myself, I have to have fuel.”

Asked if he’d heard about the carbon tax rebate Morrison said, “I don’t know anything about that…They say we’re going to get it back, but wouldn’t it be just as easy to leave it off and never mind. What’s it costing to send it back to us?”

Heather Malloy, a senior living in Roachvale, said, “It’s going to be crazy…the government, they’re always trying to find ways to dig into our pockets, and I don’t think it’s right.”

Asked if she felt the carbon tax would wean her off gas and oil she said, “No…number one, who can afford to turn around and buy the EV vehicles. I can’t afford that.”

Canso resident Janna O’Handley said the rise in gas prices will affect her quite a bit, adding, “We do most of our shopping and business out of town, and we make a trip at least once a week and with hockey season that’s going to really affect the pocket.”

Three other Canso-area families told The Journal via messages on social media that the impact for them would be severe given the distances they need to travel for sporting events, doctor and dentist appointments, work and most shopping.

New Harbour resident Peter Kaiser was filling up a double cab truck and a flat bed with several jerry cans, when The Journal approached him at the pump.

“I’ve got a fairly good job but, for what I make a week, I got to watch what I burn for gas…It’s going to make a major difference in the run of a year,” Kaiser said of the carbon tax, noting he’d have to spend nearly $20 on gas just to get to the nearest gas station.

Adele Pellerin drives from Halifax to Larry’s River frequently to see family. She told The Journal, “I understand…climate change is the most important thing. This is one way to address it, but the trick is we just have to get off it all together. I would gladly take a train to work or a bus to work, but there is nothing reliable for me to take in Halifax. So, this is our reality.”

Asked if the tax would impact the way she lives, Pellerin said, “It’s going to hurt…I might not come home as often as I would.”

Speaking to the promised federal rebate, Pellerin said, “I read the news every day and I haven’t heard too much about it.

So, maybe not. Honestly, I don’t expect anything back anyway. I just expect this will be our new reality.”

None of the people The Journal spoke to through social media or in person knew any information about the Climate Action Incentive Payment (CAIP) – a tax-free amount paid to help individuals and families offset the cost of the federal pollution pricing, which consists of a basic amount and a supplement for residents in small and rural communities.

According to the Canadian Revenue Agency’s (CRA) website, residents of Nova Scotia, “will receive three quarterly payments (July 2023, October 2023, and January 2024) in the first year and four payments in the year(s) after that.”

There is no need to apply for the CAIP, the website stated, the CRA will “determine your eligibility when you file your income tax and benefit return and will send you payments if you’re entitled to them.”

Eligible Nova Scotians can expect quarterly payments as follows: $124 for an individual, $62 for a spouse or commonlaw partner, $31 per child under 19, $62 for the first child in a single-parent family and an additional rural supplement for those living outside the Halifax census metropolitan area.

And, while most people’s attention was focused on the price at the pump, the province also warned, in their news release of June 29, that another new tax will be applied by the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board on July 7: “The fuel producer carbon tax will require fuel producers and suppliers in Nova Scotia to make gas and diesel fuels cleaner by reducing their carbon content and is expected to further increase fuel costs.”

On June 30, the Council of Atlantic Premiers issued a news release urging Atlantic Canadians, “to speak up and ask their MPs to reconsider implementing the clean fuel regulations.”

The new regulations are expected to increase costs at the pump between four and eight cents a litre, in addition to the price hike levied on July 1 – with no partial rebate to offset the cost to consumers.

The release stated, “Residents can visit www.fightthefedhike. ca to send a letter to their MPs and learn more about the expected impact of this new tax on Atlantic Canadians.”

Outgoing St. Mary’s CAO to work remotely while search for replacement continues

by Alec Bruce Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Journal

ST. MARY’S: The outgoing chief administrative officer (CAO) of the Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s, who tendered her resignation in April, will now stay on — working remotely — until “the newly appointed CAO commences that position,” council decided late last month.

The recommendation — which followed an in-camera session near the close of the June 21 committee of the whole meeting — stipulated that council authorize “current

CAO, Marissa Jordan, to work remotely fulltime” and agree “to extend her resignation to continue employment until the newly appointed CAO commences their position.”

The motion also noted: “If CAO Jordan as such time cannot provide support for full-time hours, council agrees to appoint Marian Fraser, director of finance, as interim CAO, with compensation as specified in the proposal [and] Marissa Jordan to provide part-time administrative support to the interim as the departing CAO within the hours [for] consideration as specified in the proposal.”

After just more than a year, Jordan

announced she was leaving the municipality’s top administrative job on April 19, indicating she wanted to pursue other opportunities in her home province of PEI.

Immediately prior to her appointment in Feb. 2022, she served as economic development officer. Before that, she was municipal clerk and special projects coordinator, a position she’d held since 2019.

“Marissa brought with her years of experience,” Deputy Warden James Fuller said in May. “During her tenure she motivated, mentored and led the municipality’s team towards a higher level of service.”

At the time of her resignation, Jordan told The Journal, “It’s been my pleasure to serve our residents and work within such an amazing team of council members and staff... In the coming months, myself and council will begin searching for possible

candidates to serve as the new CAO of St. Mary’s.”

According to postings on St. Mary’s website and Facebook page in May, the municipality was seeking “HR consulting services to facilitate the recruitment” of a new CAO.

“The Municipality is seeking the right person to lead our municipal administration team,” the posted position summary said. “The CAO ensures that the policies and programs of the municipality are implemented; advises and informs Council on the operation and affairs of the municipality; and performs the duties and functions and exercises the powers assigned to a Chief Administrative Officer by the Municipal Government Act and other enactments.”

The Journal sent emails to both Jordan and St. Mary’s Warden Greg Wier last week — requesting an update on the job search — but did not receive responses by press time.

Consultant to create strategic plan for community development

by Lois Ann Dort Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Guysborough Journal

GUYSBOROUGH: With new projects and opportunities sprouting up throughout the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG), a community planning project has been commissioned by the Guysborough District Business Partnership (GDBP) to gain insight into the path forward.

In February, the GDBP brought guest speaker Doug Griffiths to Guysborough to discuss community development, strategic planning, assets and obstacles. The response to the presentation was overwhelmingly positive, leaving many inspired and

excited over the potential Griffiths saw in the MODG.

Subsequently, the GDBP entered into a contract with Griffiths’ consulting company, 13 Ways Inc., to provide a strategic plan for community development in the municipality. An event held on June 19 in Guysborough – where Griffiths and his collogue Heather Thomson made a presentation – served as the kick-off for the project.

Ashley Cunningham Avery, executive director of the GDBP, told The Journal early last week that there would be three phases to the project: engagement; assessment, including interviews; and compilation of information, with recommendations.

“The community will get a document at the end of the project to say, ‘Here are the succinct and direct things, which are

actionable, you can do to improve your community,’” she said. The interview process has begun with community business owners, but the project is also accepting feedback from any resident in the area on what people would like to see in the community, what’s working well and what’s not.

“They’re going to help us determine what our strengths are as a municipality and what things we can work on to grow. The end result is to increase the population…our business population and also our general population, too,” said Cunningham Avery, adding, “Anybody can reach out to them and say, ‘I’d like to be interviewed,’ and they’ll contact you.”

Project team members plan to tour the municipality this month. “They’ll get a really good feel for how big the municipality is. They were really blown away by the potential that is here and the beauty of the area,” Cunningham Avery told The Journal.

The project, funded through the operating budget for the GDBP provided by the MODG, is expected to wrap up in the fall. Anyone wishing to be interviewed for the project can contact the consultant at info@13waysinc.com.

Rare books, attic find, and departmental collaboration lead to StFX students conducting original research

by Drake Lowthers The Reporter drakelowthers@porthawkesburyreporter.com

ANTIGONISH: A rare book collection, an attic find, and a collaboration between a StFX English professor and a StFX librarian resulted in a novel assignment for StFX students taking ‘English 205: Shakespeare Today!’ this past year.

StFX English professor and Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Digital Humanities Laura Estill and Special Collections Librarian Susan Cameron led a course assignment this past term that saw the students undertake original research with Punch magazine, a collection of rare books StFX holds at the StFX Angus L Macdonald Library.

The student work has just been published on StFX Scholar.

“It’s particularly cool because the StFX set of Punch magazine spans over 100 years and is in an incredibly handsome binding, making our copies even more valuable,” Estill said.

She says the assignment began with a moment of serendipity, when Cameron took her to see rare materials, some of which were not stored in the official rare book room or special collections room.

“We wended our way through the byzantine structure of the Angus L. Macdonald Library, around the stacks and up ill-lit stairs to a locked door. Behind the door was an attic room with boxes and shelves of materials with no other home in the library. And in the middle of that room, the St Francis Xavier University collection of Punch magazines were shelved, with their impressive matching green spines decorated in gold. We were immediately drawn to these handsome volumes. I had seen digitized images of Shakespeareana in Punch magazines. I lifted some volumes off the shelf at random and, leafing through, found Shakespeare-related materials leaping off the page.”

WORK WITH VALUABLE PERIODICALS

It was over a year later when Estill was slated to teach a new-to-StFX course, ‘Shakespeare Today!’ about how Shakespeare is received, interpreted, and adapted over time, that the duo was happy to finally get students in to work with these valuable and fascinating periodicals spanning over a century.

Estill says the students had two introductory sessions: one she led on the history of Punch and how to research and analyze Punch, and a second, led by Cameron and Lorena Brothers of StFX Library on the history of the collection and how the collection appeared in Antigonish.

Cameron says StFX is fortunate to have a collection of the valuable and beautifully bound Punch Magazine. StFX has 112 bound volumes, most of which are bound similarly, with some variations in the later volumes. They span the period from 1841 to 1948. Working in person with the rare materials, each student, most of whom were not English majors, found a piece of Shakespeareana that piqued their interest, which they adopted and researched for the assignment. They supplemented research with primary sources using digital facsimiles.

Estill suggested students chose material such as play reviews, articles, cartoons, and satirical pieces: all deployed Shakespearean ideas (and ideas of Shakespeare) for different reasons. The students worked with materials from the Victorian era to the mid-twentieth

century. They not only had to learn about Shakespeare but also later time periods.

The question students asked is: “Why did this writer/artist reference Shakespeare and to what end?” The assignment prompt, included at the end of the booklet, gave sample questions students could ask to help determine “what is interesting about the Shakespeareana?”

“I wanted students to think about how we interpret and deploy texts in culture,” Estill said. “The students undertook original research: they wrote about materials that, often, had never before been studied. They learned how to find information about literary texts and historic periods, which can help them become better critical thinkers. And they shared what they found (in this booklet), which hones communication skills.

“The StFX library holds fantastic rare books and special collections; it’s always a joy to bring students there.”

Estill said she was happily surprised at the range of interesting materials students found to write about, from a letter to the editor from Edward Fitzball (a playwright who compared himself, in jest, to Shakespeare) to a satirical one-act prequel to Hamlet to a cartoon comparing Queen Victoria’s infatuation with Napoleon III to Titania’s addled love for ass-headed Bottom in Midsummer Night’s Dream.

EXPOSURE TO RARE BOOKS

Cameron says the assignment provided the students with exposure to rare and older book materials and the chance to spend time using them and gain an appreciation for the difference between using the physical object and the online version.

“It is very likely that for many of them it could have been the first time they had the chance to do that,” she says. “In today’s digital world, a hands-on experience with print primary source material is rare. It was fun to see them realize that it is a sensory experience as well as just an interaction with the printed content. Many of them were afraid to touch the material or amazed that they had access. They had the ‘white gloves’ idea that these materials are not to be handled except with extreme care.

Cameron said she was keen to have students realize that the library has special collections and to learn a little about how these collections came to be, and that there is always a story behind them. “I also introduced the concept of special collections, and that there are an astonishing variety to the subjects and types of collections out there.

“I was particularly pleased that this assignment prompted me to do provenance searching and that I made some discoveries, in particular about the large collection of books left to StFX from the estate of Dr. John Francis Waters of Ottawa. Punch is so full of potential for projects in many disciplines on campus, and I would like to encourage people to consider innovative assignments like this one.”

The students included Abby Ives, Abby MacDonell, Avery Walker, Caroline Kelly, Ciara Wainwright, Danielle Phillips, Ebony Gosselin, Edward Meadus, Elise Canning, Erin MacLellan, Grace Still, Hope McCutcheon, Kirstie Jordan, Lily Burt, Makoto Barnard, Matthew Breau, Olivia McNamara, Renee Papp, Samantha Burton, Sara Waldron, Sierra Fraser and Teresa Church.

Photo contributed by StFX. Laura Estill (centre) with students Edward Meadus and Makoto Barnard.

Community newspaper advertising: a tried and true way to generate and grow business

Every week community newspapers shine an unfiltered light on their community. Ours is the only media in the world solely dedicated to telling your stories. We reflect the community back to you, the good and the not so good. This means attending meetings, often being the only reporter in the room. It means prodding public officials with difficult questions. It means celebrating our achievements and sharing sorrow.

It means being there and being relevant. It is not just because of the importance of in-depth and credible journalism that newspapers can provide. It is not just because of the value a local newspaper has when it comes to getting your message across as an advertiser. It is not just because a local newspaper strives to eliminate ‘fake news.’ And it is not just because a newspaper, your local newspaper, can provide positive stories on local people, local events, and local happenings.

During tough times, such as the height of the pandemic, as Main Streets closed and advertising dried up, we were still there, more relevant than ever as residents craved a trusted, local source of news and information. For many, COVID was a wake-up call to the power and importance of community. It’s easy to click a button and buy something, but it provides no benefit to the community. When we lose one job, any job, the broad negative trickledown is felt at our rinks and soccer fields, in senior supports and service clubs, and in fundraisers and sponsorships.

Despite what some may think or even perceive, newspapers remain a valuable part of our everyday.

Newspapers truly are an integral part of people’s everyday lives because they support their communities. They support the local advertisers who place their trust in us to get their message out. Newspapers support the local bake sale held at a seniors’ centre. Newspapers help support a new business opening up down the street by writing a story on them. Newspapers support events, fundraisers, or the local sports team on its way to a championship. You see, local newspapers are more than just something to flip through each day, week, or month; they are part of a community.

Part of your community.

Whether in print or online, advertising in a community newspaper is a tried and true way to generate and grow business. It may not be as sexy as some platforms, but the results are second to none, and the impact far greater than a simple business transaction. It is a partnership to grow the community and invest in those who live, work and play there.

Buy a local ad. It’s an investment that will pay dividends far and wide.

Contains excerpts of columns from Paul MacNeill, Island Press Limited, Montague, PEI Daniel Bushman, The Watrous Manitou and Lanigan Advisor, Saskatchewan

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Windfarms by Bear Head Energy and Everwind Fuels

Residents of Janvrin Island and other local communities participated in the two recent “engagement sessions” in Arichat and St Peters. As one of several from Janvrin Island, I and others here wish to be better informed about the extent and type of research behind the unfolding developments the two energy developers are pushing for.

Assuming the larger community is in favor of knowing the future of the Strait Area, the developers and those who support their findings must be more forthcoming. Presently, we are unable to form an opinion of the long term effects without more transparency on the possible risk factors considered. We need timely responses to our concerns on all risks from the negligible to the harmful; for the Strait community needs to know.

We have been in correspondence with our district warden and councillors outside of these sessions, and find they have different levels of awareness. But good money has been spent soliciting support among certain of them, including a sponsored trip to Denmark in April to learn more about the technical aspects and benefits of green energy.

The brief history of Bear Head and Point Tupper has repeatedly proven to be an area of serial failure; The Arrow went down on Cerebrus Rock (1970), Shaheen Oil lingered and failed soon after, the heavy water plant was closed in 1974, and Dow Chemical relocated families from the Port Malcom area. Which brings to mind, who would be left holding the bag for a failure to reach the markets with enough profit?

One would hope this to be a win-win for the developers and the communities of Chedabucto Bay, “Cape Breton’s

Front Porch,” as it is sometimes called. The development profits should be shared, some of which would be plowed into the environment. We all know that buying a car, new or used, should not be done without thorough research. Are the windfarms any different?

William Melcher West Arichat, N.S.

The areas of concern:

1. Fish stocks and bird migration

2. Disturbance caused by laying underwater cables to bring the electricity to shore

3. The vibrations of the turbines affecting the sea bed

4. Navigation of the large gravel haulers and oil tankers in the strait

5. Future drinking water accessibility used to make green energy

6. The location and visual effects of the towers

7. Whether any profits will accrue for the affected communities

8. The decrease of property values

9. The expected start and end dates of construction

10. Financial responsibility for their eventual removal after their lifetime has expired

PUBLISHER Nicole Fawcett nicolefawcett@porthawkesburyreporter.com

REPORTER Drake Lowthers drakelowthers@porthawkesburyreporter.com

REPORTER Adam McNamara

ADVERTISING Nicole Fawcett nicolefawcett@porthawkesburyreporter.com

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

DESIGNER

Blair MacNeil

COLUMNIST:

Ann Marie Yorke

Tom Peters

FREELANCERS

Mary Hankey

Corey LeBlanc

Dana MacPhail- Touesnard

Tom Peters

Letters to the Editor

It is the policy of The Reporter that letters to the editor should be kept brief and in good taste. Letters must be signed and include the writer’s phone number and address. The Editor reserves the right to edit letters where necessary. Management retains the right to refuse publication of any letter not deemed appropriate to our general readership.

Advertising Policy

Deadline for Classifieds and Display Advertising is Friday at 12 noon for the following week. Deadlines are subject to change to reflect holidays. Classifieds MUST be paid in advance by cash/cheque/VISA/ MC/Interac. Advertisers should check their ad the first day. The Reporter shall not be liable for typographical errors or failure to publish an ad except to the extent of the cost of the first week of insertion. The advertiser agrees that the publisher shall not be liable for damages arising out of errors in advertisements beyond the amount paid for the space actually occupied by their portion of the advertisement in which the error occurred; whether such error is due to the negligence of employees or otherwise, and there shall be no liability for non-insertion of any advertisement beyond the amount of such advertisement. The publisher reserves the right to edit, revise, classify or reject any advertisement.

Copyright 2021.

Editorial and advertising published in The Reporter may not be reproduced in any form without prior approval of the publisher. The views and opinions in the newspaper by contributors and/ or correspondents do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the management. Not responsible for the safety or condition of unsolicited manuscripts or photographs.

Publications Mail Agreement No. 44013560

Return undeliverable Canadian addressed to: The Reporter 2 MacLean Court, Port Hawkesbury, NS B9A 3K2

Subscriptions are non-refundable. Please note that each circumstance is unique and election to make an offer in one instance does not create obligation to do so in another.

Antigonish Highland Games welcomed and hosted this large contingent of Scottish dancers to their annual Antigonish Highland Games this year. Organizers hope they enjoyed their stay and come back and visit again any time in the future.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Houston can’t ignore ER closures during summer

HALIFAX: Especially during the summer months, the Houston government can’t ignore the issues of ER closures in Nova Scotia hospitals. Last year’s ER Accountability Report found that emergency room closures doubled year over year.

“People have been increasingly worried about the state of emergency medicine in our province and frontline health care workers are stretched beyond capacity with staffing shortages,” NDP Health Spokesperson Susan Leblanc said. “We know there are additional staffing pressures during the summer months and Tim Houston needs to tell Nova Scotians what he’s doing to help those working in our hospitals and to ensure there is care when and where people need it.”

On the last day of June, the Canadian Association of Emergency Physicians (CAEP) put out a press release saying they were “once

again deeply concerned” about the number of ER closures during the summer.

“Unexpected emergency department closures during the summer months can have dire consequences for patients,” President of CAEP Dr. Michael Howlett said in the release.

“Emergencies don’t take a vacation, and people continue to require urgent medical attention regardless of the season. It is crucial that we maintain a robust and accessible emergency care system year-round.”

According to the Nova Scotia Health ER waits website, Friday’s worst expected wait times were at the Cape Breton Regional Hospital at anywhere between 4 hours 45 minutes to 7 hours 30 minutes. Both the Glace Bay and Strait Richmond Hospitals’ emergency departments were closed over the weekend.

Nova Scotia NDP Caucus

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Assembly congratulates PJ Prosper on appointment to Senate

Prime Minster Trudeau announced that Governor General, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, appointed Regional Chief Paul (PJ) Prosper to the Canadian Senate. The Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs would like to congratulate PJ on this announcement.

“It is a great honour to congratulate PJ on his appointment as a member of the senate. It has been a pleasure working alongside him as the former Chief of Paqtnkek and then as our Regional Chief for the Assembly of First Nations,” said Chief Sidney Peters, Co-Chair of the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs.

PJ has over 25 years of experience in Mi’kmaw and Indigenous legal issues. He

is a Mi’kmaw lawyer from the Paqtnkek community and has held the position of Regional Chief of Nova Scotia for the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) since 2020.

“PJ has always advocated for the rights of the Mi’kmaq and for Indigenous people across the country,” continued Chief Peters.

“He has been steadfast in his career working for, and with his people, and while he will be missed as our Regional Chief, we look forward to seeing him represent the Mi’kmaw Nation in the senate.”

In the coming days, the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs will begin discussions on an elections process to fill the role of AFN Regional Chief for Nova Scotia.

Kwilmu’kw Maw-klusuaqn

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

A change is better than a rest, as (they) say. And in this case I do believe it fits into place for Nicole Fawcett - publisher and new owner of the once named newspaper, “The Reporter,” and in the 80’s named “The Scotia Sun.” Future newspaper weekly issues front page has been reborn by its new owner and given a new face name “Strait Area Reporter.”

For the past 35 years, my Letter to the Editor dates back to the Scotia Sun, 1988 and since has continued to multiply to 140 plus published letters showing my signature. I have all my letters recorded in a keepsake book. One letter that stands out to me the most is the letter telling the readers about my 20 year bingo record book, which I still have on hand today.

It details the cost of playing the game and the dollars winnings and includes all different prizes won, their value in cash amount, for example half sides of fresh pork to a new 1983 Lada car. Also included in the bingo book of records is how many bingo games I attended daytime / nighttime, the games attended surpassed the 2,000 mark over the period of the 20 years. Leaving me with a loss of $643.00 for my 20 years of enjoyment and making many new friends over time.

Over the years I did receive wonderful feedback from friends I’d meet either on a

sidewalk or in store shopping days, telling me how much they enjoy my letters and to keep them coming. I also received phone calls from total strangers, one residing in Arichat, and read my letter in The Reporter, two readers one residing in Glace Bay, the other residing in New Waterford, they too gave me positive feedback and told me to keep the letters coming, adding a “thank you, we like what you write about.”

One special person that has passed on Don Stone, owner of two drug stores back in the days, one in St. Peter’s the other in Baddeck. Poor Don, every time we’d meet, I can still hear his famous words to me “Clarence, did you retire your pen? I never saw a letter of yours in the paper this week?” And I always gave my answer to poor Don “I am only allowed two letters per month, this is the limit when using Letter to the Editor publication stories, followed by you will read another story of mine soon.”

To all the readers reading my Letter to the Editor in the past and future stories being published in the Strait Area Reporter, Oran, Cape Breton Post and Halifax Herald newspapers.

From my heart to you, thank you, readers and to all the publishing newspapers. Clarence Landry Seaview

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Island of Cape

Breton

Our island of Cape Breton is in good hands, For our policemen are vigilant, Our firemen courageous, Our nurses caring, Our parents protective, Our teachers knowledgeable, Our writers creative, Our Clergy humble,

Our politicians obliging, Our citizens friendly, And our children respectful. All in all I would have to say our island is in real good hands.

Ron Gillis North Sydney

Emmy DeYoung, Mairi MacLaughlin, Callie Butler, Islay Syer, Adelyn Decoste.

MacLeod Dancers.

Smith Dancers.

Grant Dancers.

Federal government announces funding to transition away from home heating oil

by Lois Ann Dort

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Guysborough Journal

ANTIGONISH: The federal government announced an investment of up to $101.7 million on June 30 from Canada’s Low Carbon Economy Fund to reduce energy costs and support climate action in Nova Scotia.

The announcement, made by Central Nova MP Sean Fraser, took place in Antigonish, a town which has set the goal to become Canada’s first net-zero emissions community.

The funding will be divided between two initiatives, one for individuals and the other for initiatives in Nova Scotia that support Canada’s 2030 greenhouse gas emissions reductions target and align with Canada’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. An investment of up to $60.5 million for provincial Home Heating Oil Transition programming will support lowerincome homeowners make the move from heating oil – the primary source of heat for 40 per cent of Nova Scotia households, which makes up 6.7 per cent of the total greenhouse gas emissions in the province – to energy sources that create fewer emissions, like heat pumps. The remaining amount, up to $41.2 million, can be used by the province for projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

In comments made during the announcement, Fraser noted that Nova Scotians have seen the impact of climate change in the past year from hurricane Fiona to the recent wildfires and the reality is that this is the new

normal. The repercussions of inaction not only result in environmental consequence but also health issues, and extraordinary economic losses. That’s why, he said, “If you only look at crass economics, investing in the fight against climate change makes sense.

“The exciting part about this,” said Fraser, “is it’s not only going to reduce emissions, it’s going to create jobs as well and save homeowners money as well. The expected savings for someone who transitions from home oil to a heat pump in Nova Scotia is between $1,500 and $4,700 every year in reduced energy bills. This is a meaningful amount of money for people who live in communities like this one.”

Speaking to the funding allotted for provincial projects, Fraser said, “The kinds of projects that we have seen in other provinces for this program include community centres, or university campus buildings.”

Stephen MacDonald, president and chief executive officer of EfficiencyOne, the notfor-profit operator of Canada’s first electricity efficiency utility, Efficiency Nova Scotia, said, “Our role at Efficiency Nova Scotia is to transform how people use energy, helping them to achieve their energy goals, save money, conserve resources, improve wellbeing and most importantly, combat climate change.”

MacDonald added, “Higher energy cost disproportionally impact households with lower incomes. So, depending on fuel prices, approximately 40 per cent of Nova Scotia households can experience some form of energy poverty. Installing just one mini-split heat pump

in an oil heated home can reduce energy cost by 15 to 20 per cent…when you factor in additional upgrades on top of heat pumps like insulation and draft proofing or switching homes to LED lighting this will result in even more saving.

This investment, MacDonald said, “will mean thousands of Nova Scotians will no longer be in energy poverty.”

While new funding makes the financial barrier to moving off home heating oil plausible, for many people, programs offered to date have been difficult to navigate. Following official comments on Friday, The Journal asked Fraser about this issue, to which he replied, “That was actually one of the criticisms we heard on previous programs that we had rolled out. They were difficult for people to access and difficult to navigate…particularly when it required detailed assessments, or home energy audits that were difficult for ordinary people to manage.

“What we’ve decided to do is cooperate with the provincial government and offer the programs for home oil to heat pump transitions through EfficiencyOne; it’s a one stop shopping strategy that we’ve adopted. So, if you go to EfficiencyOne’s website you’ll find all the information on how to apply for both the federal and provincial grants that allow you to accomplish the same outcome which is to obtain support from different levels of government to transition to cleaner energy sources,” Fraser said adding that grants such as the greener homes grant and the oil to heat pump affordability program can be layered on top of each other.

Despite the thousands of dollars available,

some homeowners may still find the gap between grant money and their personal finances a bridge too wide to cross. Fraser said, “There’s a couple of things we’ve done to try to address that. First of all, there was previous programs that we had tried that ran into similar obstacles as a result of needing to put receipts forward and then recoup cost on the back end. We’ve tried to change the approach by allowing access to certain grants up front that will help cover the cost knowing that it will go towards a certain kind of expense.”

Fraser added, “This is not a few hundred bucks. We’re dealing with, in some instances, more than enough support for low-income homeowners in particular to cover the complete cost of installing of some of these products. The exact cost will vary based on conditions of a particular home and the service provider you use but for most people, layering these various programs from both the federal and provincial government and including provincial programs that are federally funded, are going to be a dramatically more generous set of programs than existed previously and its meant to help address the bottle neck for a lot of people who may like to take advantage but can’t afford their share of the product.”

The funding creates a win-win-win situation, said Fraser; lower energy cost, creation of green sector jobs, and a significant step in combating climate change.

For more information on green initiative funding for homeowners visit https://www. efficiencyns.ca.

Man awaits aggravated assault sentence from shotgun incident

by Drake Lowthers The Reporter drakelowthers@porthawkesburyreporter.com

WAGMATCOOK: An accused that shot his brother with a shotgun, wounding him in the legs, three years ago will face his sentence for aggravated assault.

“I decline to amend the information to read “with intent to wound.” I am entering a finding of not guilty on the section 244 charge, as worded in the charging document,” Judge Peter Ross said. “The accused’s action in lowering the sight-line of gun leaves me with some doubt that his purpose in firing it was to endanger Allister’s life.”

Ernest MacEvoy is on trial for multiple offences dating from an incident on June 21, 2020 in which he shot his brother – a decision has been rendered on five of the six counts – he was found guilty on a charge that he did wound Allister MacEvoy thereby committing an aggravated assault contrary to section 268 of the Criminal Code. Four other charges were either stayed or dismissed.

The remaining charge, which reads “with intent to endanger the life” of Allister, Judge Ross explained, is the subject of this decision.

“When rendering the decision on the section 268 charge et al on May 5, 2023 I canvassed a possible amendment to

Count 2, under section 601 of the code. I indicated that I had some doubt whether the evidence proved a specific intent to endanger Allister’s life,” Ross said. However, section 244 may be committed by discharging a firearm with intent to wound, and so the question before me was whether I ought to amend the count to conform to the evidence and proceed to a verdict on the charge as amended. [The] Crown argued in favour of amending Count 2, which would read “with intent to wound Allister MacEvoy.””

According to court documents, the mental element for aggravated assault is an objective foresight of bodily harm; it does not require proof of intent to wound.

“The evidence heard at this trial established that the accused, just before firing the gun at Allister, lowered his sights from Allister’s upper body to his legs,” the documents read. “It is on this basis that an allegation of an intent to wound better conforms to the evidence than an allegation of an intent to endanger life.”

While details of the altercation were discussed at trial, the complainant testified that the accused first pointed the gun at his torso, then pointed the barrel down towards his lower body before firing it.

“The Crown’s evidence may well have led the defence to conclude that “endangering life” was not proven, and

that the accused need not address it in his own evidence when he entered upon his defence,” Ross said. “My own assessment is that the accused, in lowering the shotgun and aiming at the victim’s legs, wanted to lower the risk and degree of ensuing harm.”

During his testimony, the accused spoke about his state of mind claiming “I shot him because he threatened me,” and “At the time I fired I was scared, I thought he was coming to kill me,” and “I was thinking of saving myself,” amongst others.

Defence nevertheless argues against the amendment.

“The Crown had opportunities earlier in the proceedings, and well prior to the trial date, to effect a change in the wording of Count 2. Mr. MacEvoy had originally been charged with attempted murder, later withdrawn in favour of the section 268 charge,” Ross said. “Amending the count at the decision stage would shift the ground out from under the accused’s feet with no opportunity for him to retrace his steps. An accused is entitled to know the case it must meet. If the amendment had been sought at the end of the Crown’s case, before the defence was called upon to give evidence, I would be more inclined to grant the motion. Doing so now appears to be unduly prejudicial, and contrary to the interests of justice.”

Guysborough Players report continued growth, success at AGM

by Lois Ann Dort

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Guysborough Journal

GUYSBOROUGH: Guysborough Players, an amateur theatre group based in Guysborough, held its annual general meeting on June 28. President Kate Tompkins reported on the year that was, noting that the many accomplishments included increased professionalism, a strong board of directors, new talent, improved choreography, as well as new props, sets and costumes.

“Our costume collection is growing to the point where it’s splitting its seams,” Tompkins told The Journal during an interview on July 2.

In the Players’ March production of Brigadoon, a fog machine was put to use with good results except, Tompkins said, “It was funny, actually; it was so foggy backstage, we couldn’t see what we were doing half the time.”

She added, “My goals for this year were to expand our capacity as an organization, which we’ve achieved; to not go broke, which we achieved; to have a wonderful time,

which we achieved; to establish ourselves as a creative force in the community and I think that we’ve done that, too.”

Looking forward to next year, Tompkins said the goals are similar, “Another big, bouncy show. We’re going to look for something that’s a little more contemporary and a little bit better known. We’ve got it out to a vote right now and it’s a tie at the moment between The Sound of Music and Cinderella. And, if we do Cinderella, it will be the modern version in which Cinderella is actually a feminist.”

The group continues to actively recruit men for the stage, as well as children for future shows.

The Players are undertaking a training program to allow Tompkins to take off the producer hat – one of many she wears for every production – passing it on to member of the board Julie Anne Fox.

“That’ll take some of the pressure off me. We have a grant from New Horizons [federal grant New Horizons for Seniors Program] so that’s one of the activities of the grant,” she said.

Tompkins is also writing a booklet for the group detailing

the points of production for musical theatre, “So, it will be very clear to everybody what the job descriptions are, where they overlap and where they don’t…It’s part of establishing our longevity.”

The Players are also looking for a space to house costumes, props and sets. Tompkins told The Journal they have a tentative space selected and if all goes to plan, they should be able to move in this coming October.

Funding for the Guysborough Players comes from ticket sales, sponsorship from Bell Aliant and donations from various businesses, individuals and from the Municipality of the District of Guysborough, as well as the aforementioned federal grant.

Tompkins stressed that the group receives no core funding. The board executive remains unchanged with Tompkins (president) and Fox (secretary) joined by Joanne Anthony (vice-president) and Nancy O’Regan (treasurer).

Tompkins reiterated that anyone who had the courage to get up on stage was welcome to join the group – and, for those with stage fright, there are many behind the scenes roles that could be filled by anyone willing to donate their time.

TAG receives funding to ‘green’ and expand

by Lois Ann Dort Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Guysborough Journal

GUYSBOROUGH: The Transit Association of Guysborough (TAG) received provincial and federal funding recently to further its efforts to make public and affordable transit accessible locally.

In mid-June, the province announced $56,000 of funding for TAG in support of operational costs. On June 27, the province and the federal government announcement a further combined investment of more than $181,000 – $144,807 through the federal Rural Transit Solutions Fund and $36,202 from the province – to support public transit in Guysborough County.

Cape Breton-Canso MP Mike Kelloway and GuysboroughTracadie MLA Greg Morrow teamed up at the Chedabucto Lifestyle Centre in Guysborough to make the announcement, which will fund the purchase of an electric vehicle, a hybrid wheelchair-accessible van and two charging stations.

Kelloway told those gathered for the announcement, “What

I like about this area is that you’re focused on climate action, growing the economy, [and] creating good jobs in this area. It’s not mutually exclusive that environment is here, and jobs are over here and the two shall never meet. This county gets it… By investing in infrastructure, our government is supporting solutions that will make it easier for Nova Scotians to get around in cleaner and more affordable ways.”

Along with building more infrastructure, Kelloway said, “We’re also increasing our focus on creating more jobs, strengthening the local economy, supporting innovation. As we work towards our goal of zero emissions by 2050, projects like this one, make no mistake about it, will help us to ensure we create opportunities for Canadians every step along the way.”

Along with supporting clean, accessible transportation, Morrow said of the funding, “It’s an important step to making our community more inclusive. Everyone in our area deserves access to affordable and reliable transit. We have a responsibility to deliver this service to those in our community who are at greatest risk of becoming isolated and alone. We know that one size does

not fit all and that is why I am proud that we we’re able to find solutions…that make sense for Guysborough.”

Morrow added, in reference to the volunteers who moved the TAG project forward, “Government is always happy to support people that have a plan…this is where it begins.”

Catherine Hartling, TAG board chairperson, said, “The Transit Association of Guysborough is grateful to receive this support and funding contribution from the federal and provincial governments. This funding will allow the TAG to continue to serve the residents of Guysborough County and Mulgrave with our planned expansion of our fleet. Affordable and accessible transportation has historically been a barrier for many individuals seeking access to healthcare, food, social connection and other vital services in rural and urban areas. This funding will enable TAG to continue to break down these barriers and provide more of our population with accessible and equitable transportation.”

Hartling concluded her remarks by adding that, after the threeyear TAG pilot project concludes, “I hope we’ll continue to see funds from the federal government.”

New heights reached by Canadian student rocketry group with Spaceport Nova Scotia’s first launch

by Drake Lowthers The Reporter drakelowthers@porthawkesburyreporter.com

CANSO: A rocketry team from Ontario’s York University, made the most of a Launch Canada initiated opportunity to prepare for and execute a sub-orbital launch at Canada’s first commercial spaceport.

The group, Arbalest Rocketry, consists of some of the brightest young minds in the fields of Canadian science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) took their passion for rocketry and space on July 6 to new levels as they launched their amateur high-powered rocket from Spaceport Nova Scotia.

The plan originally was to launch the highpowered ‘Goose 3’ a day before, during an official ceremony, in front of the likes of local, provincial and federal officials as well as Indigenous leaders and young students from the region.

“Today’s accomplishment is the result of an enormous amount of work, research, preparation and commitment and I am so proud of everyone involved,” Andreas Tryphonopoulos, team lead for Arbalest Rocketry said. “It is an honour to have the opportunity to come to Nova Scotia and launch from Spaceport Nova Scotia.”

However, as the weather wasn’t providing favourable conditions, and the celebratory event continued, the team made the decision to postpone the launch, with the launch program forwarded to the following day.

“Of course we are disappointed that the launch couldn’t happen yesterday in front of many young students and future potential Canadian rocketry professionals,” Tryphonopoulos said. “However given the excitement we saw on site yesterday, I am confident that there is a very bright future for Canada in the global space industry.”

Through various initiatives including

the July 6 launch, Launch Canada supports over 1,000 students nationwide from over 25 universities and colleges, uniting Canadian academia, industry and government with the aim to promote Canada’s full innovative potential and secure its place for years to come as a front running space fairing nation.

The launch was a real-life demonstration that Canadian rocketry and engineering education is making significant progress and developing space sector excellence.

“Today’s launch event is proof positive that Canada is actively developing highly skilled and talented aerospace professionals,” President of Launch Canada Adam Trumpour said. “Having access to a world class launch location and infrastructure right here at home will help keep this wealth of talent in Canada and drive our country’s success in the ‘global space’ race.”

Maritime Launch Services CEO Stephen Matier highlighted the significance of the event, noting that hosting this student-led launch

fuels the company’s passion for developing Canada’s first commercial spaceport.

“We’ve always maintained that while we are building a commercial spaceport to serve global market demand, it is critical that this facility also serve aspiring Canadian space industry members as a place of learning and innovation,” Matier said. “It is only fitting that the first launch vehicle to take off from Spaceport Nova Scotia is domestically designed and launched by students from the Arbalest Rocketry team.”

Photo contributed Business Wire. Arbalest Rocketry prepares the Goose 3 for launch on July 6 from Spaceport Nova Scotia.

SPORTS Tyler Peddle drafted by NHL’s Columbus Blue Jackets

Antigonish product ready to take on professional challenge

by Corey LeBlanc

COLUMBUS, OHIO – If words, such as ‘patience’ and ‘perseverance’, were not used in scouting reports on Tyler Peddle, they have definitely been etched in stone since the recent 2023 National Hockey League (NHL) entry draft.

His name was the final one called during the annual two-day event, which took place on June 28 and 29 at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee – home of the Predators.

“It was kind of crazy,” the Antigonish native offered, with a laugh, of finally hearing his name announced by the Columbus Blue Jackets, with the 224th selection in the seventh round.

Describing the moment as “pretty emotional,” his initial memories included hearing screams from the friends and family who were with him, along with a congratulatory bear hug from his father, Brad.

“It was definitely worth the wait,” Peddle added, describing the experience as “pretty cool.”

Nevertheless, as the draft progressed into the middle rounds, that didn’t mean there weren’t any anxious moments.

“It got stressful – that’s for sure,” the power forward offered.

The Blue Jackets brokered a trade with the Stanley Cup champions – the Vegas Golden Knights – to secure the final spot on the draft board so they could select him.

“It showed that they really valued me,” Peddle said, adding that he is “thrilled” to be chosen by a top organization.

Describing him as a “high-profile prospect,” Trevor Timmins, assistant director of scouting for the Blue Jackets, told The Reporter that Peddle has been on his organization’s radar for “quite some time.”

“We think it is a great story – it may be fate,” he said of securing his rights with the final selection.

As the draft wound down – and Peddle remained on the board –Timmins explained that the Blue Jackets were preparing to invite him to their developmental camp. Before long, at the suggestion of head amateur scout Ville Sirén, the organization started its pursuit of a pick that they could use to take him.

“In our opinion, he shouldn’t have been around,” Timmins said, noting they projected Peddle as a mid-round selection.

He added, “We were so happy – for him and us.”

The Blue Jackets were not alone in their feelings on his potential, considering that The Hockey News ranked Peddle as the 83rd best prospect, while NHL Central Scouting ranked him 76th among North American skaters.

While unpacking why Peddle may have remained available, Timmins offered that he had a “pretty good camp,” although he didn’t make the Team Canada roster for the 2023 Hlinka

Gretzky Cup – an annual international U18 tournament.

He explained that Peddle enjoyed a “pretty good start” to his second QMJHL season with Drummondville, but his play “regressed in the second half.” He noted that the Voltigeur organization was “going through a lot of change,” which the Blue Jackets believe may have contributed to his performance.

Timmins described his play in late January at the 2023 CHLNHL Top Prospects Game, which features 40 of the best draft eligible players from the three Canadian junior leagues, as “average.”

Peddle finished the QMJHL regular season with 24 goals –second most on the team – and 17 assists, for 41 points, in 64 games.

“Tyler had a good interview,” Timmins said of his conversation with Columbus during the 2023 NHL Combine, which took place in Buffalo in early June.

He added that the organization thought Peddle, despite have a challenging season, was in a “pretty good place.”

Timmins noted that the Blue Jackets think he will return to the form that made him a top pick in the QMJHL draft.

“Tyler is well on his way,” he said of the 6’1”, 205-pound, centerleft winger, when it comes to the physical attributes that are often key to making the jump to the NHL.

Noting that Peddle has a “really good shot,” Timmins added that he has the size, strength and physicality to reach that next level.

He also dispelled the idea that choosing him with the final selection of the draft was nothing more than an afterthought.

“We don’t waste picks,” he said bluntly.

Although it “remains to be seen” if Peddle will skate in the NHL, Timmins offered, “It is now up to him to get there,” when it comes to fulfilling that dream.

On the heels of the draft, the 18-year-old continued the journey with his new organization – travelling from Nashville to Columbus to skate in the Blue Jackets’ development camp.

“It was really fun,” Peddle told The Reporter on July 5, just a little more than an hour after it wrapped up, adding that there was “great competition.”

He also took advantage of the opportunity to get to know other Columbus prospects and members of the organization.

“It’s been awesome,” Peddle added.

On the ice, he noted, he was able to not only display his size, but also his hands and other skills.

When it comes to post-camp feedback, he said that the organization was “pretty happy” with his performance.

“It will be really helpful,” Peddle said of the advice he received, including tips about working on areas such as explosiveness and posture.

After wrapping up his first visit to Columbus, he was heading home to Antigonish, where he will be focussed on having a “good summer of workouts” with student-athletes from the STFX X-Men, one of the top university teams in Canada. Peddle has grown up in the program, considering his father – a former White and Blue defenseman – has been head coach for almost two decades.

“They will challenge me,” he said of training with his hometown team.

And, before long, Peddle will be hitting the road again. Before the end of the summer, he will return to Drummondville for his third QMJHL training camp with the Voltigeurs.

Photos contributed.

Tyler Peddle of Antigonish was the final selection of the 2023 NHL entry draft late last month in Nashville. The Columbus Blue Jackets took the high-scoring power forward in the seventh round, with pick 224.

“It is going to be a lot of fun – I really looking forward to it,” Peddle said.

As for last season – one that included coaching and front office upheaval – he described it as “tough for everyone.”

“I was proud of our team – we got through it together,” Peddle added.

Expected to be joining him in the Drummondville line-up will be Luke Woodworth – a fellow Nova Scotian – along with Maveric Lamoureux, who was selected in the first round of the 2022 NHL by the Phoenix Coyotes. That trio and their teammates will be skating for new head coach Sylvain Favreau who makes the move over from behind the bench of the Halifax Mooseheads.

Being drafted by the NHL’s Blue Jackets is the latest milestone on a hockey journey that began with Peddle donning the Black and Gold as part of the Antigonish Minor Hockey Association (AMHA).

After making his mark as a Bulldog, he skated with the Nova Bantams of the Nova Scotia U15 Major Hockey League. In his final season at that level, an MVP-winning campaign, Peddle set a league record with 57 goals. In two seasons, he tallied 84 times, which also tops the loop’s record book.

From there, Peddle headed to Shattuck-St. Mary’s, in Faribault, Minnesota, where he joined a list of alumni for the prestigious development program that includes Sidney Crosby and Nathan MacKinnon. While south of the border, he continued to score at a high level; tallying 46 points – including 31 goals – in 47 games.

With a decision to make about his next stop – whether to go the NCAA or CHL’s major junior route – Peddle opted to join Drummondville, the organization that selected him second overall in the 2021 QMJHL entry draft.

“Everyone supported my dream,” Peddle said of how growing up in a “hockey town” like Antigonish meant so much.

He noted how his time with AMHA and the Nova organization has been a key to his development.

“It is a big part of the reason that I am here today,” Peddle said, adding, “Everyone has always been really helpful.”

And, of course, his family – including his father, mother, Susan; and younger brother, Brady, have been there “every step of the way.”

“They have supported me so much,” Peddle said.

He noted having them with him, when the Blue Jackets called his name, is why it was such a “special moment.”

“I will never forget it,” Peddle added.

Speaking of Brady, the 16-year-old is coming off his first draft experience. In early June in Sherbrooke, the Gatineau Olympiques selected the 6’1”, 175-pound defenseman in the third round (50th overall) in the 2023 QMJHL entry draft.

“Brady is such a great player,” Peddle said of his younger brother, noting his “strong hockey sense.”

Like him, Brady has a decision to make; play college hockey south of the border or opt for the QMJHL route. And, like when he was at that crossroads, the brothers and their parents will “talk about it as a family.”

If Brady continues his hockey journey in Gatineau, it could add some sibling flavour to one of the season openers for the 2023-24 QMJHL season. A match-up between the Voltigeurs and Olympiques on Sept. 22 could include the battle of the Peddle brothers.

“It would be pretty cool,” Tyler said.

Karly Boyle of Antigonish was the winner of the Florence MacMillan Trophy, presented to the premier dancer from the Maritimes who performs the best Flora MacDonald Fancy at the Antigonish Highland Games.

Tyler Peddle of Antigonish celebrated his draft selection by the Columbus Blue Jackets with his parents, Susan and Brad, along with younger brother, Brady, who was chosen in the third round, 50th overall, by the Gatineau Olympiques at the 2023 QMJHL Entry Draft in mid-June.

The stars will be out in Canso

Stanfest

by Corey LeBlanc

CANSO: The stars will be out in Canso.

That has been a long-time motto of the Stan Rogers Folk Festival, affectionately known as Stanfest, one that has been fulfilled for more than half a century in this historic fishing community on the northeastern tip of Nova Scotia.

And, for the 26th time, the catch of the day (weekend) for visitors – from July 20 to 23 – will be one of the most highly regarded outdoor music festivals in the world.

Stanfest 2023 will be the second on staged since the festival – like countless events worldwide – felt the wrath of the COVID-19 global pandemic for more than two years.

“We had a great restart,” Troy Greencorn, Stanfest founder and executive director, recalled of the festival’s comeback in 2022, one that also marked its silver anniversary.

He pointed out that – like most festivals –“We wondered how things would play out.”

Organizers needn’t have worried, considering attendance figures bested those reached in 2019 – the last festival prior to the global pandemic.

That success – coupled with strong early ticket sales for this year – gave them the confidence to add a fourth Main Stage concert to the schedule.

Roar Back 2023, a kick-off show honoring the successful return of the festival, will be

headlined by Alan Doyle and The Beautiful, Beautiful Band. It will be the lone appearance for Doyle – the former lead singer for the iconic Newfoundland group Great Big Sea – and his group in Nova Scotia this year.

Quote the Raven and Rum Ragged will be the opening acts for the show on Thursday, July 20, which will get underway at 7 p.m.

“It is going incredibly well,” Greencorn said of sales for Roar Back 2023, noting that it being the lone Bluenose appearance for the group has “really helped” boost the response.

He described adding that fourth Main Stage show as a “gamble,” much like some other new features added for 2023.

Headlined by The Irish Descendants, the Friday, July 21 line-up on the Main Stage includes Bruce, Dylan and Jodi Guthro.

On Saturday, July 22, Morgan Toney will be part of a concert featuring Angelique Francis.

The final Main Stage show – on Sunday, July 23 – will include festival mainstays, JP Cormier and Dave Gunning, along with headliners – The Kingston Trio.

On Saturday and Sunday, three additional stages will highlight artists, with shows running from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The four-day gathering, in keeping with its tradition, will be a celebration of songwriters honoring the late Rogers – one of the most

prolific Canada has ever produced. The eclectic collection of artists will showcase a wide variety of musical genres, including folk, country, blues, soul, gospel, pop, rock, blue grass and world music.

Along with festival alumni, including Gunning, Cormier and Guthro, the Atlantic Canadian flavor of the line-up will feature the likes of Matthew Byrne, Tara MacLean, DeeDee Austin, Joe H. Henry, Andru Branch & Halfway Tree, Carleton Stone, Lisa Richard and the Silver Wolf Band.

Stanfest 2023 will also feature its familiar international flavor; something that had been stymied – to varying degrees – by the global pandemic and its aftermath. Greencorn noted that – even in 2022 – many artists were not touring globally, and show goers were staying closer to home.

Performers will be arriving from the United States, Europe and – of course – across Canada.

“It feels good,” Greencorn said, noting that one of the focuses has always been on being an international festival of songwriters.

One of the widely anticipated cornerstones each year – a tribute concert featuring performances of Rogers’s tunes – will, as usual, take center stage on Sunday.

One night earlier, as part of the Saturday Main Stage, the songbook of the late Gordon Lightfoot will be the focus for artists.

“We think it was logical – and important,” Greencorn offered.

He suggested that probably every folk singer has a song or two from the icon in their repertoire.

Greencorn expects the Lightfoot tribute –much like the one dedicated to Rogers – to be “powerful” and provide an “emotional peak” for the annual festival. He described the social media response when it was announced as “amazing,” the highest one for anything related to Stanfest 2023.

“We are seeing significant growth, which is super exciting,” Greencorn said of ticket sales

in the late June conversation with The Reporter. He added, “Back to levels of 10 years ago –during what you might call our ‘heyday.’”

Greencorn noted that additional marketing has been one of the contributing factors to that surge.

Reflecting on what sets Stanfest apart from most festivals – particularly ones in more urban settings – is the sense of community created by visitors spending the “entire weekend,” many of which reserve one of the more than 1,000 campsites available on the festival grounds.

“You could say, for many, it is the heart of the festival,” Greencorn offered of the comradery between the campers; one doesn’t have to venture too far to hear some guitar tunes.

He added that the whole environment – the intimacy and variety offered by not only the performers, but also the artists, artisans and culinary creators – is a “big part of the product.”

“It is about so much more than the music,” Greencorn said.

And, of course, a key ingredient of that ‘so much more’ is the tireless effort of Stanfest volunteers, many of whom have been involved since the inaugural festival.

“There is nothing else like it in Canada – it is amazing,” Greencorn offered of the volunteer contribution.

Describing the collection as “small, but mighty,” to illustrate its strength, he noted that the Vancouver Folk Music Festival – which takes place in Canada’s third largest city – draws approximately 1,000 volunteers; while Canso –with a population of a little more than 800 –attracts more than 600 helpers for its annual celebration.

“It is an incredible effort,” Greencorn said.

Ranging from 12 to 80-plus, volunteers are not only from Canso and environs, but come from as far afield as Alaska and Australia.

For everything from ticket information to how to volunteer, visit the Stanfest 2023 website – stanfest.com – email: info@stanfest.com or call the festival office at 1-888-554-7826.

Camping on site is one of the appeals of Stanfest to festival goers.

Stanfest 2023 is set for July 20 to 24 in Canso.

Even if you fall at Stanfest, someone will be there to catch you.

Photos contributed by Stanfest. Stanfest 2022 volunteers were ready to serve thirsty concert goers.

Some of the volunteers that helped make Stanfest 2022 successful. That same giving nature will be on display this year.

It is not difficult to find wide smiles during the annual Stan Rogers Folk Festival.

158th Highland Games overwhelming

Photos by Drake Lowthers.

This child lands in the sand after making a jump.

Karly Boyle of Antigonish who was the winner of the Flor

ence MacMillan Trophy, presented to the Premier dancer from the Maritimes who performs the

Flora MacDonald Fancy at the Antigonish Highland Games.

This little one gets some assistance as she gets ready to make a caber toss.

The 158th Antigonish Highland Games are being deemed an overwhelming success.

Cousins Shaw, Nelson and Brandon competed in tug-of-war for Antigonish Harbour Combines.

Kids had a blast participating in archery, something not too many would have everyday access to.

Kids were able to try their hand at several iconic Highland Games events during the week.

The tug-of-war competition is always a hit at the Antigonish Highland Games and this year was no different.

Sponsors and organizers of Sk8 the Strait see benefits to building a skatepark in Port Hawkesbury

by Adam McNamara

PORT HAWKESBURY: The second annual Festival of the Sk8, an event held as part of the Festival of the Strait, finished up over the weekend and event organizer Gus Doiron hopes the positive turnout highlights the potential for a skatepark in Port Hawkesbury.

The event which was free for all ages, temporarily transformed the SAERC Basketball court into a skatepark.

Skateboards and other safety gear were available for participants during the week. Helmets were mandatory and their importance were the first bit of instruction for new comers.

This year Doiron decided to extend it from July 1 to July 10, he left the equipment up and said people were showing up all week to use the facility.

“We have been going by all hours of the day and seeing kids in here skating, biking or scooting,” Doiron said. “It’s really impressive to see how many kids have been coming back.”

He has had pop-up skate parks throughout the town in the last several years and said he is also looking for somewhere to have a permanent skate park in the summer.

“There’s one spot I’m looking at by the old vocational school,” Doiron said. “But it really depends on what the town’s insurance has to say on it.”

This year he noticed lots of people coming from outside of the county to enjoy the event and said it’s a sport that is not only a type of cross training, but one also teaching life lessons about learning to fall and get back-up.

“It’s great, with skating it gives kids who might not want or be able to do hockey or soccer to play a sport and you get exactly out of this what you put into this,” Doiron said. “You’re not relying on a teammate, it doesn’t matter the age, or whether you’re highly confident or not, as long as your trying you get respect.”

Skateboarding has been a sport in the Olympic Games since 2020, Nova Scotia is recognized as a hotspot for talent in Atlantic Canada and the Quad Counties are also known for producing excellent skateboarders.

“We do have some local people here who are world class skaters,” Doiron said. “There was a guy from Kempt Road here, there were some guys from Arichat and Antigonish.”

Prizes were awarded by ballots and included a skateboard deck, trucks, wheels, bearings and clothing. Doiron said some people came by with old gear to help and Next Level Skateboard Shop in Antigonish has been a big sponsor of the event.

“It’s been a great system because some kids come here with a set up and some kids don’t, some kids have a decent set and some kids don’t,” said Doiron. “So, the way it’s been working out is; a kid will win a prize and will give a used part to someone else and then we keep working on it.”

Jason Mason is the owner of Next Level Skateboard Shop and also president of the skatepark in Antigonish. Mason said he’s

Gus Doiron noticed a lot of kids picking up the sport quickly, even to the point they were teaching some of the more experienced skaters how to do things.

happy to help sponsor the event because he understands the benefit of having a skatepark in a community.

“We do get a lot of people from Port Hawkesbury and that neck of the woods so to speak,” Mason said. “And having a skatepark in your community is like having indoor plumbing, it’s only going to make a community better.”

After Mason helped start the skate scene in Antigonish, he said the ripple effects on the community were big.

“All the ancillary values and stuff you didn’t think of, StFX University is now the only university in the world that offers skateboarding as a course and that’s because the university is here, it’s also a place to host events,” said Mason. “They could put a skatepark in Port Hawkesbury and something else will come out of it, it doesn’t have to be skateboard related because one good thing just leads to another good thing.”

St. Mary’s preparing for busy year of construction

by Alec Bruce Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Guysborough Journal

ST. MARY’S: Municipal infrastructure improvements are pushing the public agenda in St. Mary’s these days, as district council expects to juggle a set of new projects this summer.

At the June 21 committee of the meeting, Municipal Clerk Mallory Fraser — who was also recently appointed municipal accessibility coordinator — reported that St. Mary’s has secured an $115,347 grant from the federal government’s Enabling Accessibility Fund.

According to the program’s criteria, funding is available to communities that undertake projects to make their workplaces and public spaces more accessible to persons with disabilities — enabling them to take part in community activities, programs and services and access employment.

The new money, Fraser said, will be used to install accessible doors throughout the Recplex and at Sherbrooke Public Library.

The work will be completed during the 2024-25 fiscal year.

Meanwhile, Chief Administrative Officer Marissa Jordan reported that the request for tenders to upgrade the municipality’s Recplex were issued on June 21.

“A lot of that work is to re-side the Recplex and make any repairs to the frame of the wall on one side,” she told the committee of the whole meeting. “We are trying to do it in stints, because it is expensive. That project also includes other aspects, including updates to the sprinkler system... if the funding allows.”

Earlier in June, the municipality received a $32,000 grant from the provincial Rink Revitalization Fund (RRF) to pay approximately one-third of the $96,000 cost. The remaining twothirds will be covered by municipal funds. The work is expected to get underway during the last week in August.

Finally, council approved spending $10,700 to hire Amherst engineering firm G.A. Isenor Consulting Limited to conduct the municipality’s first water rate study since 2017. The project — a requisite stage in the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board’s determination of new water rates for the area — will get underway in the next several weeks.

Gus Doiron, far right, watches while an experienced skater shows someone new to the sport how to ride a ramp.

Gus Doiron built the ramps for the event and Next Level Skateboards in Antigonish helped provided skateboards, wheels and more as loanable equipment.

Photos by Adam McNamara.

KitchenFest sets stage for summer concerts

Barn Bhreagh from left: Isabella Samson, Morgan Toney, and Keith Mullins performed for the Kitchestfest concert at the Friends United Centre on July 4. Barn Bhreagh has been characterized as a travelling singer-songwriter circle where the musicians all play on each other’s songs.

The first Port Hawkesbury Ceilidh of the season, in conjunction with KitchenFest / Féis a’ Chidsin!, got off to a rousing start at the Civic Centre. They dynamic duo of Evans and Doherty had the audience singing along and laughing at their entertaining stories

Cousins Rodney MacDonald and Glenn Graham had the audience taping their feet with their lively fiddle tunes. It was a full house for the first Port Hawkesbury Ceilidh of the season, which was also part of KitchenFest / Féis a’ Chidsin.

When Jake Charron in not on the road performing, he is in the studio producing and recording music. He played to a full house at the first Port Hawkesbury Ceilidh of the season at the Civic Centre

Kyle and Ryan MacNeil of the Barra MacNeils treated the audience to a variety of traditional music on July 4 at the Kitchenfest concert at the Friends United Centre. They are accompanied by their nephew Malcolm MacNeil who recently returned from the Jazz Festival in Toronto.

Joanne McIntyre hosted the Kitchenfest evening at the Friends United Centre July 4. McIntyre has sung on stages around Cape Breton since her teen years, bringing the island’s distinct style and “swing” to appreciative listening audiences.

Mac Morin is always a crowd favourite performer at the Port Hawkesbury Ceilidhs. In addition to his talent as a piano player, Mac has travelled widely to teach Cape Breton step dancing.

StFX Athletics announces two Danny Gallivan Memorial Scholarship recipients

by Drake Lowthers The Reporter drakelowthers@porthawkesburyreporter.com

ANTIGONISH: StFX Athletics is pleased to announce two new recipients of the Danny Gallivan Memorial Scholarship. Incoming X-Men Football student-athlete Oluwatobiloba (Tobi) Sokunbi and X-Women Basketball recruit Shannon Neita are the 2023 award recipients.

The Danny Gallivan Memorial Scholarship is StFX Athletics most prestigious scholarship and is awarded to Canadian male and female varsity athletes who combine qualities of leadership with academic excellence. The award is currently valued up to $5,000 per year and is renewable for up to four years as long as the recipient remains on the academic Dean’s List.

“I feel that Tobi is a very deserving recipient of the Danny Gallivan Memorial Scholarship. Throughout the recruitment process Tobi showed that he was just as serious about his academics as he was about football. I am very happy to be welcoming Tobi to our team this fall,” X-Men Football Head Coach Gary Waterman said. “He has tremendous potential to contribute to our team both on the field and in the locker room and I believe he will represent this prestigious scholarship in a very positive way.”

A native of Winnipeg, Man., Sokunbi comes to StFX via Vincent Massey Collegiate where he was the starting center and defensive lineman for their varsity football team. A captain of the squad, he was named to the Division 1 AllDivision team and was nominated for the lineman of the year award. Tobi also competed for U18 Team Manitoba at the 2022 Football Canada Cup in Kelowna, BC. In the classroom he maintained a 90 per cent average and was a positive figure in the community. He was a member of his school’s grad committee, and in the Diversify Club that helps promote inclusion and acceptance of differing cultures, and he helped mentor lineman on the junior varsity team. Tobi also volunteered to coach a spring youth flag football team and is an active member of his church.

He has been accepted into the Bachelor of Arts and Science in Health program at StFX this fall and hopes to one day work in the medical field.

“I am very honoured to be receiving the Danny Gallivan Memorial Scholarship. I cannot wait to get to campus this fall and become a member of the X-Men football team,”

Sokunbi said. “I’m looking forward to competing and developing both on the field and in the classroom.”

Likewise, fellow scholarship recipient Shannon Neita of the StFX women’s basketball team comments, “I am extremely grateful to be given such a prestigious award in memory of Danny Gallivan and was honoured to be nominated. I am blessed to have an opportunity to even

apply for such an award and to be gifted as a recipient is beyond words.”

Neita comes to StFX via Michael Power St. Joseph High School in Toronto where she was an honour roll student in all four years, graduating as an Ontario Scholar and receiving a special certificate in French language. The 94 per cent student has volunteered at summer basketball camps and spends time volunteering with various odd jobs in her community assisting elderly neighbors. She mentored the Junior JUEL basketball team while also competing with the Durham City Chameleons in the Ontario Junior Elite League (JUEL). With the Chameleons, Neita won back-to-back championships, was recognized on the JUEL All-Defensive team and was selected to participate in the 2023 JUEL allstar game. She was also a member on the highly competitive Scarborough Prep program that competes in Canada’s premier preparatory basketball league.

Neita is enrolled in the Bachelor of Business Administration program at StFX this fall and hopes to become an accredited, public chartered accountant.

X-Women head coach Matt Spencer notes that she “is a perfect example of the type of person we are trying to bring into the X-Women Basketball program. She is a top student, a fantastic athlete, and a wonderful teammate.”

The Danny Gallivan Memorial Scholarship was established in 1992 to honor Danny Gallivan, an outstanding Canadian and widely respected StFX alumnus. Gallivan (1917-1993) was a native of Sydney, N.S. and graduated from StFX in 1942. He was an outstanding radio and television personality who became known as ‘the voice of the Montreal Canadiens’ after covering play-by-play for over 1,800 Canadiens hockey games. He became involved in numerous community fundraising initiatives after his 32 year broadcast career and was inducted into the Canadian Broadcasters Hall of Fame (1991), the Canadian Sports Hall of Fame (1989), the Hockey Hall of Fame as a Media Honouree (1984), and the Nova Scotia Sports Hall of Fame (1980). Danny Gallivan received an honorary doctor of laws degree from StFX University in 1985.

The most recent StFX Gallivan Scholarship recipients include Jacob Benoit (X-Men Cross Country/Track) and Sarah Lapensee (X-Women Soccer), who are recent graduates, along with Gabriel Gaspar (X-Men Soccer) and Liam McCullagh (X-Men Cross Country/Track).

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Danny Gallivan

StFX University announces new Board of Governors members

ANTIGONISH: St. Francis Xavier University’s Board of Governors welcomes three new board members whose threeyear terms commenced July 1, 2023: Rose Paul, Greg MacEachern and Alfred LeBlanc; as well as two new student representatives whose one-year terms commenced May 1, 2023: Sophia Fabiano and Francisco Chang.

Rose Paul ‘11 is CEO of the Bayside Development Corporation and Director of Lands and Economic Development for Paq’tnkek Mi’kmaw Nation Administration Office. In 2011, Ms. Paul was awarded valedictorian of the inaugural Indigenous Women in Community Leadership program at Coady Institute (StFX); 2017 Cando Economic Developer of the Year; Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Award; and Nova Scotia Community Spirit Award. In 2023, she was named by Atlantic Business Magazine as one of Atlantic Canada’s 25 Most Powerful Women in Business.

Greg MacEachern ’96 is principal and founder of KAN Strategies and has spent 15 years working in the field of government relations. Prior to moving to the private sector, he spent more than a decade in senior advisory roles in municipal, provincial, and federal politics, including as Director of Communications to the President of the Treasury Board and providing media support to Prime Minister Paul Martin. Building on his political experience Mr. MacEachern also provides political commentary for CTV, CBC, and Sirius XM Canada. He has been named to The

Hill Times Top 100 Lobbyists list, and he sits on the Board of Directors of the Government Relations Institute of Canada and on the Board of Directors of Hopewell Eating Disorder Support Centre. A recipient of the Marcel Lussier Award from StFX in 1996, Mr. MacEachern is also a former president of the StFX Halifax Alumni Chapter.

Alfred LeBlanc ‘79 is a recently retired senior government executive with rich policy, communications, change management and stakeholder relations experience. He most recently served as VP Communications, Corporate and International Affairs at the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). Prior to this, he served as Assistant Secretary to Cabinet for the Government of Canada; Director of Federal-Provincial Relations at Finance Canada; Director General of Strategic Policy at Industry Canada; and Director General of Strategic Policy and Partnerships at Environment Canada. His university degrees include a BA from StFX University, and MAs from Oxford (on a Rhodes Scholarship) and Queen’s University.

Sophia Fabiano is the President of the StFX Students’ Union and is entering her fifth year as a biology major with a studio art minor.

Francisco Chang is a third-year student completing a Bachelor of Arts in economics. He was previously involved in the Students’ Union as the international student representative. Mr. Chang is

originally from Equador.

“The StFX Board of Governors will benefit from the diverse perspectives of the incoming Board members,” said Dennis Flood ‘80, Chair of the StFX University Board of Governors. “I am grateful to the Governance and Nominating Committee for leading the effort to recruit new members and look forward to engaging with them on the exciting work taking place at StFX University.”

Additionally, the Board of Governors extends a sincere thank you to several outgoing board members, whose term ended on June 30, 2023. These individuals have made many valued contributions and considerable time, knowledge, and expertise to StFX University.

• Deborah Gillis (Board Appointee)

• Andrea Paul (Board Appointee)

• Dr. Chris Gilham (Faculty Appointee)

• Dr. Denton Anthony (Faculty Appointee)

• Brendan Roberts (Student Appointee)

• Joshua Kroker (Student Appointee)

• Violet Silva (Student Appointee)

• Paul MacFarland (Bishop Appointee)

• Duaine Devereaux (Clergy Appointee)

• Simone Abbass (Clergy Appointee)

• Peter Ludlow (Clergy Appointee)

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

WEDNESDAY JULY 12

-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.

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

-45 Card Play will restart at the Mulgrave Legion at 7:30pm (For more info go to our Facebook page at: www.Facebook.com/MulgraveLegion)

THURSDAY JULY 13

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

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

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

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

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

-Market By the Sea at McNair’s Cove, Mulgrave from 6:00pm-7:30pm.

FRIDAY JULY 14

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

-Tabletop Games at the Evergreen Seniors Club, Embree St, Port Hawkesbury from 7:00pm10:00pm. For more information contact Port Hawkesbury Tabletop Society at charlesbeaton@hotmail.com.

SATURDAY JULY 15

-Chase the Ace at the Tara Lynne Centre in River Bourgeois from 11:30am to 12:30pm. The café will also be open.

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

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

-SAM (Saturday Artisan Market) at the Bonnie Brae Club in St. Peter’s from 10:00am-2:00pm.

-Sand Castle Contest at Point Michaud Beach Provincial Park, Point Michaud. Registration at 12:30pm and judging at 5:00pm. (Bring your own tools and equipment.)

SUNDAY JULY 16

-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.

-Mini-Cribbage at the Mulgrave Legion at 1:00pm. (For more info go to our Facebook page at: www.Facebook.com/MulgraveLegion)

-Outdoor Farmers and Artisan Market at Johnstown Landing, across from 15290 Highway 4 in Johnstown from 10am-1pm. Contact: johnstownlanding@gmail.com

-Breakfast at St. George’s Channel Community Hall from 9:00am-12:00pm.

TUESDAY JULY 18

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

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

UPCOMING/ONGOING EVENTS

-Market By the Sea at McNair’s Cove, Mulgrave July 27th, August 10th & August 24th, McNair’s Cove, Mulgrave. 6-7:30pm.

-Breakfast – 2nd Sunday of each month at the D’Escousse Civic Improvement Hall from 8am11am.

-Judique Knights of Columbus are having a brunch from 10:30am-12:30pm on July 23rd.

-Fish Fry at the Royal Canadian Legion in Arichat, 1219 Veteran’s Memorial Dr, from 4:00pm6:30pm. Eat in or Take out. July 21

-Fundraiser BBQ and Perennial Plant Sale at 209 Main St., Port Hood (rain or shine) from 12:00pm-2:00pm. Freshly made hamburgers on a homemade bun. A wide variety of plants and bushes. July 22

-Veteran’s Social Gathering at the Royal Canadian Legion in Arichat, 1219 Veteran’s Memorial Dr, from 2:00pm-4:00pm. July 29

-Music Circle at the Royal Canadian Legion in Arichat, 1219 Veteran’s Memorial Dr, from 2:00pm-4:00pm. Bring your own instrument. Aug. 5

-Breakfast at the Royal Canadian Legion in Arichat, 1219 Veteran’s Memorial Dr, from 8:00am-11:00am. Eat in or Take out. Aug. 6

Please contact Nicole at 902-625-3300 | nicolefawcett@porthawkesburyreporter.com | Events and times are subject to change without notice

Greg MacEachern

Alfred LeBlanc

Rose Paul

PROPERTY TAX SALE

PROPERTY TAX SALE

NOTICE is hereby given that the following lands situated within the Municipality of the County of Richmond will be sold under provisions of the Municipal Government Act, part V1(6), for arrears, rates, taxes, interest and expenses. Time of Sale will be at 10:00am on Friday, the 14th day of July 2023, at the Municipal Office, 2357 Highway 206, Arichat, NS, unless all charges are paid at the Municipal Tax Office on or before said date.

SCHEDULE OF LANDS

SCHEDULE OF LANDS

TERMS AS FOLLOWS: Cash, Money Order, Lawyer’s Trust Cheque, or Certified Cheque for the amount outstanding on account immediately at time of Sale. Balance of bid must be provided within 3 working days following the Tax Sale.

The Municipality of the County of Richmond makes no representations or warranties to any purchaser regarding the fitness, geographical or environmental suitability of the

particular use and does not certify the legal title, legal description or boundaries AND the lands for sale are being sold on an "as

The Municipality of the County of Richmond makes no representations or warranties to any purchaser regarding the fitness, geographical or environmental suitability of the land(s) offered for sale for any particular use and does not certify the legal title, legal description or boundaries AND the lands for sale are being sold on an “as is” basis. Although the Municipality of the County of Richmond has made all reasonable efforts to confirm ownership, it does not guarantee titles or boundaries of the aforementioned properties. Prospective purchasers are responsible for conducting their own searches, surveys and or other investigations.

basis. Although the Municipality of the County of Richmond has made all reasonable efforts to confirm ownership, it does not guarantee titles or boundaries of the aforementioned properties. Prospective purchasers are responsible for conducting their

offered for sale for any particular use and does not certify the legal title, legal description or boundaries AND the lands for sale are being sold on an "as is" basis. Although the Municipality of the County of Richmond has made all reasonable efforts to confirm ownership, it does not guarantee titles or boundaries of the aforementioned properties. Prospective purchasers are responsible for conducting their own searches, surveys and or other investigations. For a more detailed description of the property, please contact the Municipality of the County of Richmond by calling (902) 226-3975 or via email csamson@richmondcounty.ca

Clint Samson Revenue Manager

Dated: July 12, 2023

Dated: June

For a more detailed description of the property, please contact the Municipality of the County of Richmond by calling (902) 226-3975 or via email csamson@richmondcounty.ca

Clint Samson Revenue Manager

Dated: July 12, 2023

Thomas Kleylein & Gabriele Maris Jaensch

CLASSIFIEDS

Richmond Villa

Employment Opportunity

Part time Dietitian

Richmond Villa requires a Dietitian. Reporting to the CEO and working collaboratively with other Directors on service delivery in the home. The Dietitian is responsible for the planning and delivery of dietary services at Richmond Villa.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science in Nutrition

• Completion of a Dietetic Internship

• Current license with the Nova Scotia Dietetic Association

• Highly effective communication, presentation and facilitation skills

• Excellent Computer skills with proficiency in all Microsoft Office programs which include, Excel, Outlook, Word and PowerPoint.

• A demonstrated track record of being a champion for staff and resident safety.

• A demonstrated and proven ability to attend work on a regular and consistent basis.

Forward resume to:

J Carson Samson Chief Executive Officer Richmond Villa carson.samson@richmondvilla.ca

902-535-3030 Ext 222

Closing date: July 14th, 2023

Tourism in Richmond County

by Ann Marie Yorke

The 21st Annual Summer Surf Program at Point Michaud Beach is now OPEN! Exciting news Surfing at Point Michaud Beach list as one of the top 10 Cape Breton Hidden Gems, check out cbisland.com for the complete story, featuring Richmond’s renowned surf instructor Michelle Richards, who first drew awareness to surfing at Richmond’s hidden treasure of Point Michaud Beach 21 years ago to surfers from all around Nova Scotia and beyond. Point Michaud Beach and Provincial Park is still the ideal spot to learn how to surf. This beautiful ocean beach welcomes easy rolling waves and visitors to our coastline and the Municipality of Richmond’s Recreation Department is happy to announce that Surf Lessons will resume at the beach, as well as the very popular Point Michaud Surf Club, beginning July 12. Watch for up-dates on prices, times and schedules and instructions on how to register on the Municipality of Richmond’s Facebook page. Surfing at Point Michaud is an amazing Summer Experience, which draws surfers from

across Nova Scotia, it is also a perfect spot for new surfers to learn the art of surfing. Join in the fun as you surf the waves at Point Michaud. The Surf Hut is open 7 days per week from 10 am to 5 pm for rentals. Phone Grace and Lily at the Surf Hut today 902-5872988 to learn more about the available rental equipment or to learn about the current surf conditions. The surf hut will be closed on Monday, August 7, to observe Natal Day. New this summer, are the MOBI-MATS at Point Michaud. A welcomed addition to the beach, are the Mobi-mats, that allows those with mobility issues to safely access the beach and water. Mobi-Mats are portable, non-slip beach access mats for people with disabilities that provide beach access for wheelchairs, walkers, and strollers. Check their Facebook page for Dates for the Pop-Up Surf Lessons. Dates for beginning the program’s surf lessons will be posted on the Richmond County Recreation Site when they start later this month, so stay tuned for surf lesson up-dates.  Rentals are not available on days of extreme conditions or weather. Here is a list of the equipment prices. Sea Kayak $25.00/day, Stand-Up Paddleboard

$25.00/day, hourly rates for rentals are available. Rentals must be returned by 4:30 pm. Richmond Recreation staff will also have beach toys and volleyballs are available for beach goers to enjoy for free! Visit the surf hut for more information.  There are Lifeguard Services at Point Michaud Beach. Point Michaud Beach will be supervised daily from 10:00 am - 6:00 pm, from July 1 to August 27. The beach also has the following facilities. There are changehouses, toilets and parking available. There is also a picnic area to the left overlooking the beach. Point Michaud Beach is located approximately 20 kms from the village of St. Peter’s along route 247. Point Michaud Beach Provincial Park. This year, Richmond County Recreation in partnership with SANS will be hosting a surf and water sport contest at Point Michaud Beach Provincial Park this summer. This is an event for all ages to come and enjoy a fun filled day at the beach! Registration $20.00. Includes use of Summer Surf Program equipment during all divisions. A schedule of events for the Surf and Water Sport Contest can be found on www.richmondcounty.ca.

June 5th, Ken Bacon, # 511, Judique

June 12th , Sheila MacDonell, #652, Judique June 19th, Alice Campbell, # 532, Judique June 26th, Sandra Buker, #684, Judique

Frank Louis Hunt, August 28, 1929 - June 20, 2023

Frank Louis Hunt, 93, of Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, passed away peacefully on June 20, 2023. He was born to parents Samuel and Winnifred Hunt, on August 28, 1929 in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. Frank grew up in a house filled with love with his brothers Dick, and Bert, and, his sisters Joyce, Gwen and Pat.

Frank married Doreen, the love of his life, in 1951. They had 72 wonderful years together living in Moose Jaw, Port Hawkesbury, Fort McMurray and Fort Saskatchewan. Frank is survived by his wife Doreen, son Tom and daughter Shirley, brother Bert, sisters Gwen and Pat, 1 brother-in-law, 5 grandchildren, 15 great grandchildren, 3 great great grandchildren, 8 nephews, and 8 nieces. Frank had a long successful career working for BA Oil, Gulf Oil, Syncrude, Petro Canada, and Enviro Fuels where he held many titles.

He loved working in his greenhouse growing beautiful plants for family and friends to enjoy. His greatest joy was travelling to Fawcett Lake with his fishing buddy, son Tom. Sitting in his boat fishing was the highlight of his summer seasons. Along with the very late night bbq steak, baked beans and potato suppers. Oh, the stories he would tell while sitting around the campfire!

Frank was the head, heart and protector of the family. He was the rock that held everyone together. His wisdom and generosity will live on forever in our hearts and our memories.

A family graveside burial will be held at a later date in Moose Jaw.

“Did you ever know that you’re my hero And everything I would like to be?

I can fly higher than an eagle. For you are the wind beneath my wings.”

Jeff Silbar and Larry Henley sung by Bette Midler

Urquhart

- June 29, 2023

Lawson “Wayne” Urquhart 80 of Port Hawkesbury, Nova Scotia passed away suddenly at home on June 29, 2023. Wayne was born in Halifax on May 7, 1943 and was the son of the late Lawson and Kaye Urquhart of Grand River, Richmond Co.

As a teenager, he joined Air Cadets and earned his Private Pilot’s license at age 16, and later his Commercial Pilot’s license. Flying and cadets were his life long passion. He was a member of 18 Dartmouth Air Cadet Squadron, and held many roles with 719 Stora and 824 Silver Dart Air Cadet Squadrons including Commanding Officer. He worked at Cadet Summer Training Centres throughout Canada for close to 30 years, primarily as a Flying Scholarship Supervisor, until the age of 77.

In his youth, Wayne was active in hydroplane power boat racing. In 1964 and 1965, he won the Canadian Boating Federation’s High Point Outboard Division Titles.

He graduated from Dartmouth High School and attended N.S.I.T where he graduated from the Mechanical Technology program. He worked at the Texico Refinery in Eastern Passage, and at the Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd. and Louisana Pacific in Point Tupper. He also operated his own excavating/contracting company, LW Urquhart Excavations, Ltd. He was an Officer in Cadet Instructors Cadre where he obtained the rank of Captain. He was a very active volunteer in the communities of Port Hawkesbury and Grand River. He was a member of the United Churches in both communities. He had belonged to Solomon No 46 and Heather No 124 Chapters of the Masonic Lodge and Starlight and Celtic Star Chapters of the Order of the Eastern Star. He was a member of the Grand River Fire Dept and a life member with the Port Hawkesbury Fire Department. He served 35 years in the Royal Canadian Legion. He held various positions with Branch 110 L’Ardoise and Branch 43 Port Hawkesbury where he was Chaplain at the time of his death.

He received the Canadian Forces Decoration in 1990 and the Exemplary Service Medal for Fire Services in 1996.

Wayne was pre-deceased by his wife Jean; daughter, Cyndi Meaney; granddaughter, Caitlyn MacIntosh; sister in law, Roberta Taylor; and brother in law, Art Cipryk.

He leaves behind his partner, Beverley Arsenault; daughter, Cathie MacIntosh (Brian), Stellarton; son-in-law, Steve Meaney, St. John’s, NL; sister, Margie Cipryk, Quispamsis NB; brother, Kevin (Dawn), South Athol, NS; brother-in-law, Hazen (Sonny) Taylor, Cole Harbour; and grandchildren, Scott and Jessie MacIntosh and Ryan and Erin Meaney.

Visitation wsa held on Tuesday July 4 from 2-4pm and 7-9pm at Greens Funeral Home in Port Hawkesbury. Funeral Service to celebrate his life was held Wednesday July 5 at 11am from Grand River Presbyterian Church, with Jim MacNaughton, DLM-R, presiding, burial in the Grand River Cemetery.

Family flowers only. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his name to a charity of one’s choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Green’s Funeral Home, Port Hawkesbury

Memoriam

In memory of Hugh F MacIntyre

Aug. 2, 1928 - July 14, 2005

Whenever I start to think of you

My eyes begin to fill up with tears

I so wish you could give me a clue

Whenever it is that you are here

I know I’ll always have you in my heart

But it was hard to deal with it

I hate that we are so far apart

So I will always keep hope

One day I will see you again

Then our new chapter will begin.

Love your wife Betty oxo

Lynn Snow Memoriam In loving memory of Andrea Lynn Snow who passed away July 15, 1973. As time unfolds another year Memories keep you ever near No need for words except to say Still loved, still missed every day.

Remembered by Mom, Dad, Sisters

Our Dad in Heaven

They say there is a reason

They say time will heal

Neither time or reason

Will change the way we feel

Gone are the days we used to share

But in our heart you are always there

The gates of memories will never close

We miss you more than anybody knows

Love and miss you Dad, everyday. Until we meet again, Always and forever Dad.

Love Daughters, Son, and Grandchildren MacIntyre oxox

MacIntyre

NOTICE

OF RICHMOND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The Lasting Tribute MEMORIALS

Guaranteed Memorials Free Delivery and Erection

JOHN D. STEELE’S SONS LTD.

A Cape Breton Industry since 1896

Phone 794-2713 North Sydney, N.S.

Call for Applications “Canada Day Funding”

Notice to customers of the Arichat Sewer System

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

After Hours 794-3171; 794-4411

LOCAL REPRESENTATIVES

Charles MacKinnon 345-2480

OF RICHMOND

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The County of Richmond invites applications from registered not for profit organizations who are interested in organizing a Canada Day event for the upcoming celebrations on July 1, 2023.

1) Amendments to the Isle Madame Municipal Planning Strategy and Land use By-law to allow for small scale campgrounds and recreaIonal vehicles to be used as seasonal main dwellings or seasonal accessory dwellings as of right within the Rural General (RG) Zone and Rural Resource (RR) zone and to insert accompany definiIons

The Municipality will be conducting smoke testing of the Arichat sanitary sewer system the week of July 10-14. The smoke testing will involve opening of manholes in the streets and public utility easements and injecting artificially produced smoke into a blocked off pipeline segment to see where the smoke emerges.

Applications and questions will be available via email ONLY from Jason Martell, Chief Financial Officer at jmartell@richmondcounty.ca

Copies of the Staff Report can be inspected at:

• The Municipal Office

Stephen Samson, St. Peter's 535-2809 210048

Call for Applications “Canada Day Funding”

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Employment Opportunity Seasonal Arena Attendant

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

Internal / External Job Posting – Bargaining Unit Position (NSGEU Local 161)

Applications must be submitted on or before 4:00pm local time on Friday, May 26th, 2023 to the following address by mail, courier, or email:

• 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)

All residents are advised that if traces of this smoke or its odor enter your house or building it is an indication that gases and odours from the sewer may also enter at other times. Sewer gases can be a health risk to the occupants and the conditions allowing sewer gases to enter should be addressed.

Attn: Jason Martell, CFO “Canada Day Funding”

• Online at www.edpc.ca

Municipality of the County of Richmond 2357 Highway 206 – PO Box 120 Arichat, NS B0E 1A0 jmartell@richmondcounty.ca

Further informaIon may be obtained by contacIng (902) 625-5361 or Toll Free 888-625-5361.

Wriaen or oral presentaIons (for or against the proposed) can be made before Municipal Council at a Public Hearing to be held:

Should smoke enter your home or business, you may contact a member of the smoke testing crew working in your area. The crew member will be able to help and check with you as to where the smoke has entered your building. Location, identification, and correction of the source of smoke that enters your building is urgently advised. Your cooperation will be appreciated.

Tuesday, June 20, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. Council Chambers 2357 Highway 206, Arichat, Richmond County

Posted May 31st and June 7th, 2023 in accordance with the requirements of the Municipal Government Act

Should you have any questions on this matter, please contact Chris Boudreau, P.Eng at 902-226-3988.

Obituary

It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the peaceful passing of René Richard of Arichat, NS after a long battle with lung disease, which occurred on July 4th, 2023 at St. Martha’s Regional Hospital in Antigonish, NS. Born September 27, 1956 in Cheticamp to The Late Marie Sophie (Cormier) and Jean Batiste Richard.

Raised in Arichat, René (AKA Private Eye 104), left home at a young age to begin a life of many adventures: travelling the world for 30 or so years as a seafarer, meeting people and making lifelong friendships. René loved to talk and meet new people.

René is survived by his 3 children, Patricia and her daughter; Jeremy; Francis and his 2 sons and their mother, Louise. Siblings, Yvette (Junior); Denise (Emanuel); Marcel (Murielle); Lucille (Cameron); and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

René was predeceased by his Sister; Claudette; and her Husband; Graham MacDonald.

The County of Richmond invites applications from registered not for profit organizations who are interested in organizing a Canada Day event for the upcoming celebrations on July 1, 2023.

ARICHAT BIBLE CHURCH – 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

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

UNITED CHURCH OF CANADA

St. Mark’s United Church, 504 Bernard St., Port Hawkesbury Sunday 9:30 a.m. Church Office 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, Afton: 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 902-756-2446 ST. PETER’S 902-535-3067

Information on Pre-Arranged Funerals Available

John Langley

Funeral Director

Clem Munroe

Funeral Director

Craig MacLean Funeral Director

Steven MacIntosh Funeral Director Martin Flood Funeral Director Joni Lee Thompson Funeral Director

We would like to thank the many people who cared for René over the past few years and days: VON/Homecare Workers, Palliative Care and ICU Teams at the St. Martha’s Regional Hospital in Antigonish; as well as many family and friends with special mention to his cousins, Yolande and Ralph.

Private service will be held at a later date. Donations can be made to Palliative Care at St. Martha’s Regional Hospital Antigonish, NS.

OF RICHMOND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Call for Applications “Canada Day Funding”

Employment Opportunity

Technology Specialist

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

Non-Union Internal / External Job Posting

The Municipality of the County of Richmond is currently accepting applications for the position of Technology Specialist.

The County of Richmond invites applications from registered not for profit organizations who are interested in organizing a Canada Day event for the upcoming celebrations on July 1, 2023.

1) Amendments to the Isle Madame Municipal Planning Strategy and Land use By-law to allow for small scale campgrounds and recreaIonal vehicles to be used as seasonal main dwellings or seasonal accessory dwellings as of right within the Rural General (RG) Zone and Rural Resource (RR) zone and to insert accompany definiIons

Applications and questions will be available via email ONLY from Jason Martell, Chief Financial Officer at jmartell@richmondcounty.ca

Copies of the Staff Report can be inspected at:

Reporting directly to the CAO the Technology Specialist’s role is to ensure the security and streamlined operation of IT infrastructure and services in alignment with the organization’s strategic objectives. This individual will provide leadership in business service delivery and will plan, coordinate, direct and deliver IT support throughout the organization.

• The Municipal Office

Applications must be submitted on or before 4:00pm local time on Friday, May 26th, 2023 to the following address by mail, courier, or email:

• 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

Attn: Jason Martell, CFO “Canada Day Funding” Municipality of the County of Richmond 2357 Highway 206 – PO Box 120 Arichat, NS B0E 1A0 jmartell@richmondcounty.ca

Further informaIon may be obtained by contacIng (902) 625-5361 or Toll Free 888-625-5361.

County Administration operates Monday to Friday 08:30 am to 4:30 pm. This position will include occasional evening and weekend shifts as required. Regular hours of work for the position are 35 hours per week. The Municipality has an approved salary scale for this position. Placement and incremental increases on this scale are based on qualifications, experience and demonstrated ability to perform the responsibilities of this position. For a detailed job description, visit www.richmondcounty.ca

Wriaen or oral presentaIons (for or against the proposed) can be made before Municipal Council at a Public Hearing to be held:

Earliest start date August 14, 2023. This is position is not included in our Collective Agreement. Interested candidates should forward their resume by 4:00 PM, Thursday, July 27th, 2023 to:

The Municipality of the County of Richmond

Tuesday, June 20, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. Council Chambers 2357 Highway 206, Arichat, Richmond County

Attn: Shelley David, Municipal Clerk

2357 Highway 206 Arichat, NS B0E 1A0

Email: clerk@richmondcounty.ca

Posted May 31st and June 7th, 2023 in accordance with the requirements of the Municipal Government Act

Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve. The Municipality of the County of Richmond welcomes applications from Indigenous People, African Nova Scotians and other Racially Visible Persons, Persons with Disabilities and Women in occupations or positions where they are under-represented. If you are a member of one of these equity groups, you are encouraged to self-identify on your application.

We sincerely appreciate all applications and note that only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted directly.

1) Amendments to the Isle Madame Municipal Planning Strategy and Land use By-law to allow for small scale campgrounds and recreaIonal vehicles to be used as seasonal main dwellings or seasonal accessory dwellings as of right within the Rural General (RG) Zone and Rural Resource (RR) zone and to insert accompany definiIons

The Municipality of the County of Richmond is currently accepting applications for the position of Seasonal Arena Attendant Please note that this is a union position and bargaining unit employees (NSGEU Local 161) are given priority consideration. External applications will only be reviewed if there are no qualified internal candidates.

Applications and questions will be available via email ONLY from Jason Martell, Chief Financial Officer at jmartell@richmondcounty.ca

Copies of the Staff Report can be inspected at:

• The Municipal Office

Applications must be submitted on or before 4:00pm local time on Friday, May 26th, 2023 to the following address by mail, courier, or email:

The Seasonal Arena Attendant is generally responsible for operations and maintenance duties at the Richmond Arena. The Seasonal is an employee of the Recreation Department and reports to the Arena Working Foreman. The attendant will work at the Richmond Arena. For a detailed job description, visit www.richmondcounty.ca.

• 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

Attn: Jason Martell, CFO “Canada Day Funding” Municipality of the County of Richmond 2357 Highway 206 – PO Box 120 Arichat, NS B0E 1A0 jmartell@richmondcounty.ca

Further informaIon may be obtained by contacIng (902) 625-5361 or Toll Free 888-625-5361.

The Richmond Arena operates 7 days a week from September to April and includes morning, evening and weekend shifts. Regular hours of work for the position is 45 hours per week, shift work. Start date September 5, 2023 (subject to change annually). The wage scale for this position is Level 2 with an hourly salary range of $21.86 to $24.64 (effective April 1, 2023).

Wriaen or oral presentaIons (for or against the proposed) can be made before Municipal Council at a Public Hearing to be held: Tuesday, June 20, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. Council Chambers 2357 Highway 206, Arichat, Richmond County Posted May 31st and June 7th 2023 in accordance with the requirements of the Municipal Government Act

Interested candidates should forward their resume by 4:00 PM, Thursday, August 3, 2023 to:

The Municipality of the County of Richmond Attn: Shannon Mury, Recreation Manager 2357 Highway 206 Arichat, NS B0E 1A0 Email: smury@richmondcounty.ca Our goal is to be a diverse workforce that is representative, at all job levels, of the citizens we serve. The Municipality of the

from

or

where

are under-represented. If you are a member of one of these

to self-identify on your application.

We sincerely appreciate all applications and note that only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted directly.

OF RICHMOND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Employment Opportunity

Community Development & Special Projects Officer

Non-Union Internal / External Job Posting

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

The County of Richmond invites applications from registered not for profit organizations who are interested in organizing a Canada Day event for the upcoming celebrations on July 1, 2023.

1) Amendments to the Isle Madame Municipal Planning Strategy and Land use By-law to allow for small scale campgrounds and recreaIonal vehicles to be used as seasonal main dwellings or seasonal accessory dwellings as of right within the Rural General (RG) Zone and Rural Resource (RR) zone and to insert accompany definiIons

The Municipality of the County of Richmond is currently accepting applications for the position of Community Development and Special Projects Officer.

Copies of the Staff Report can be inspected at:

• The Municipal Office

• 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)

Attn: Jason Martell, CFO “Canada Day Funding”

• Online at www.edpc.ca

Applications and questions will be available via email ONLY from Jason Martell, Chief Financial Officer at jmartell@richmondcounty.ca

Applications must be submitted on or before 4:00pm local time on Friday, May 26th, 2023 to the following address by mail, courier, or email:

Further informaIon may be obtained by contacIng (902) 625-5361 or Toll Free 888-625-5361.

Working under the direction of Recreation and Community Relations Manager, this position will be responsible for developing, delivering and evaluating activities related to community engagement and development. The role will demonstrate action and leadership in areas of access and inclusion. This officer will work with key stakeholders in support of community development activities and work to help deliver on Richmond’s Strategic Plan. They will foster coordination, deliver grass-roots community growth and development by strengthening community leadership, collaboration and innovation with community groups and citizens. This position will be the key facilitator for the County’s grant funding, whether for assistance, availability, research and/ or submissions.

Municipality of the County of Richmond 2357 Highway 206 – PO Box 120 Arichat, NS B0E 1A0 jmartell@richmondcounty.ca 210236

Wriaen or oral presentaIons (for or against the proposed) can be made before Municipal Council at a Public Hearing to be held: Tuesday, June 20, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. Council Chambers 2357 Highway 206, Arichat, Richmond County

County Administration operates Monday to Friday 0830 to 1600. This position will include occasional evening and weekend shifts as required. Regular hours of work for the position are 35 hours per week. The Municipality has an approved salary scale for this position. Placement and incremental increases on this scale are based on qualifications, experience and demonstrated ability to perform the responsibilities of this position. For a detailed job description, visit www.richmondcounty.ca

Posted May 31st and June 7th 2023 in accordance with the requirements of the Municipal Government Act Call for Applications “Canada Day Funding”

Earliest Start date August 14, 2023. This is a two year contract position with the possibility of permanence.

Interested candidates should forward their resume by 4:00 PM, Thursday, July 27th, 2023 to:

The Municipality of the County of Richmond

Attn: Shannon Mury, Recreation & Community Relations Manager 2357 Highway 206 Arichat, NS B0E 1A0 Email: smury@richmondcounty.ca

We

724 Granville Street, Port Hawkesbury NS B9A 2N8

KitchenFest! concert celebrates Cape Breton Fiddlers Association anniversary

The Outdoor Glendale Concert wrapped up with a grand finale featuring fiddlers that had performed during the event. The field in Glendale was filled with people celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Cape Breton Fiddlers Association.

Photos by Mary Hankey. Sisters Joanne MacIntyre and Rita Rankin sang a Gaelic tune at the Glendale Open Concert and had the audience join in for the chorus. Despite the soaring temperatures, the field was filled with people enjoying the music.

Well known step-dancer Melody Cameron took to the stage for some lively steps at the Glendale Outdoor Concert. KitchenFest! Féis a’ Chidsin! wrapped up a big week of music with events held all over the island.

The field in Glendale was filled with people celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Cape Breton Fiddlers Association. Howie MacDonald, accompanied by Beverly MacLean, was one of many fiddlers performing at the outdoor concert.

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Fiddler Brian MacDonald was accompanied on the guitar by Malcolm MacNeil and on the keyboard by Abagail MacDonald at the Glendale Open Concert, part of KitchenFest! Féis a’ Chidsin!.