Love, Sackville Winter 2024

Page 1


LOVE, Sackville

SACKVILLE’S STAND-UP STAR: TRAVIS LINDSAY

From Sackville High to Canada’s Got Talent Pg 4–5

CRAFTING A FESTIVE CHARCUTERIE BOARD

Use these 5 tips to create a fun and tasty holiday spread Pg 12–13

10 GIFT IDEAS FROM INDEPENDENT RETAILERS

Spread local love with the perfect gift Pg 14–15

Welcome

We, Sackville Business Association, would like to begin by acknowledging that Kwipew (Sackville) is located in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and traditional lands of the Mi’kmaq people.

About Love, Sackville Love, Sackville is a community magazine published bi-annually by Sackville Business Association (SBA). Whether you are a long-time resident or newcomer, we hope our magazine will be a valuable resource for you to stay informed and engaged with our community. We invite you to explore its pages and discover all the wonderful things Sackville has to offer this holiday season and beyond.

Publication Team

Managing Editor: Michelle Champniss

Content Writers: Taylor Morrison and Will Rice

Graphic Designers: Katie O’Brien and Emily Murphy

Publisher: SBA

For advertising inquiries, contact info@sackvillebusiness.com

Instagram: @sackvillebusiness

Facebook: /SackvilleBusiness

Twitter (X): @SackvilleBiz

TikTok: @sackvillebusiness

Website: sackvillebusiness.com

Most of the photos in this magazine highlight members of our community, including the cover, which was captured during the 2024 Sackville Snow Days.

Sackville’s Stand-Up Star: Travis Lindsay

Travis Lindsay, a rising star in Canadian comedy, is originally from Lower Sackville, a community that played a significant role in shaping his comedic journey. Growing up in Sackville with his mother, grandmother, and younger brother, Lindsay attended schools including Tiny Treasures Nursery School, Hillside Park Elementary, A.J. Smeltzer Junior High, and Sackville High School (SHS). It was at SHS that he discovered his passion for comedy, performing his debut stand-up routine at the school’s talent show on January 20, 2009. “I won,” Lindsay says, “but I didn’t even care about the win. I was just happy because I knew I had finally found that thing that made me feel connected to everyone else.”

“...these things are what make me the comic I am. My brain doesn’t work like everyone else’s, and that gives me a unique perspective.”

Comedy has not only been an outlet for Lindsay’s creativity, but also a way to process some of life’s most difficult moments. “A couple of years ago, I was diagnosed with anxiety and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and I’m currently in the process of getting

assessed for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It can be tough to manage, but I realize these things are what make me the comic I am.

My brain doesn’t work like everyone else’s, and that gives me a unique perspective.” says Lindsay.

Lindsay has achieved notable success in the comedy world. One of his proudest moments came in 2021 when he was selected for the prestigious New Faces class at the Just for Laughs Festival in Montreal, an honour shared by many comedians who have gone on to have illustrious careers. In addition, his debut comedy album, The Kid is Alright, reached number one on the iTunes Comedy Chart, and he recently performed on the grand finale of Canada’s Got Talent, as part of the million-dollar season.

“Sackville will always be home to me...There’s no me without the lifetime of memories I’ve made here.”

Over the years, Lindsay has shared stages with comedy legends.

“Opening for Howie Mandel was surreal,” he says, reflecting on a standout moment in his career. His

ability to connect with audiences through real, raw humour is what sets him apart, something he credits to early influences like Richard Pryor and Eddie Murphy. He fondly remembers watching Eddie Murphy’s “Delirious” with his grandmother, which cemented his love for comedy.

Though Lindsay has since moved to Halifax, Sackville remains close to his heart. He still returns often, whether it’s for a favourite meal at Kaiser’s Subs & Sandwich Shoppes or simply to visit friends and family. “Sackville will always be home to me,” he says. “There’s no me without the lifetime of memories I’ve made here.”

Lindsay is part of a vibrant Sackville comedy legacy, joining other local talents like Nikki Payne. He hopes to give back to the community that nurtured him, with a dream of one day filming a comedy special in the Sackville High gymnasium, where it all began. “I’ve always wanted to do something in Sackville as a thank you to the community I grew up in,” Lindsay says.

With a unique comedic voice and a deep connection to his roots, Lindsay continues to shine on Canada’s comedy scene, while proudly carrying Sackville with him on every stage he steps onto.

Below: Lindsay onstage for Canada’s Got Talent

2024 HOLIDAY EVENTS

Nov 2–3

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Hall-y Jolly Christmas Market

Nov 9, 16, 23 & 30

9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Nov 12–

Holiday Vendor Market Series at the Sackville Farmers’ Market

Sackville Legion 45 Sackville Cross Rd, Kinsmen Community Centre 71 First Lake Dr, Sackville Lions Club 101 Old Beaver Bank Rd

Acadia Hall 650 Sackville Dr

Dec 6 Cars R Us Toy Drive Cars R Us 183 Sackville Dr

Nov 16

4 - 8 p.m.

Nov 23

5 - 9 p.m.

Nov 24

12 - 5 p.m.

Nov 23–24

10 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Nov 24

6 p.m.

Nov 30

6 - 7 p.m.

Nov 30–Dec 31

Outdoor Holiday Evening Market Fultz House Museum 33 Sackville Dr

Annual Apartment 3 and TAPestry Beer Christmas Market

Apartment 3 Espresso Bar and TAPestry Beer Bar 833 Sackville Dr

Merry Maker Holiday Market

17th Annual Beaver Bank Lions Parade of Lights

Kinsmen Community Centre, 71 First Lake Dr

224 Beaver Bank Rd to 1583 Beaver Bank Rd

17th Annual Sackville Christmas Tree Lighting Acadia Park 650 Sackville Dr

5 - 10 p.m. Light Up the Park Acadia Park 650 Sackville Dr

Nov 30

10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Dec 3

7 p.m.

SHES Holiday Market

Paint Nite: Christmas in the City

Sackville Heights Elementary School 1225 Old Sackville Rd

Freeman’s Little New York 552 Sackville Dr

Antoinette’s Cheesecakes: A Sweet Journey to Sackville

There was exciting news for Sackville residents this year! Antoinette’s Cheesecakes, a beloved vendor of handcrafted New Yorkstyle cheesecakes, opened its doors at 858 Sackville Drive, adding a delightful new flavour to the local culinary scene.

Founded by mother-and-son duo Antoinette Abboud and Migel Abboud, Antoinette’s Cheesecakes is more than just a bakery—it’s a labour of love and a testament to the power of family and passion. With a diverse menu featuring vegan, keto, and gluten-free options, there’s something for everyone to savour and enjoy.

Antoinette’s journey to becoming the “Queen of Cheesecakes” began in her Halifax upbringing,

where she discovered her love for baking while helping run her parents’ café, Treats, in Scotia Square Mall. Despite pursuing a career in the financial industry after studying Business Management at Dalhousie University, her passion for baking continued to beckon her.

Determined to turn her passion into a profession, Antoinette embarked on a culinary journey, honing her skills and crafting delectable cheesecakes that soon gained a loyal following. Her creations, known for their fearless incorporation of flavours and creative flair, can now be found at esteemed locations such as Pete’s Fine Foods.

Described by many as charismatic and vibrant, Antoinette brings her contagious smile and loving

personality to every aspect of her business, infusing it with warmth and joy that resonates with her customers.

“The love and support we received when we opened our Sackville location is indescribable! ... It brings us great joy to open a location in a community we call home!”

Migel, Antoinette’s son and co-owner of Antoinette’s Cheesecakes, inherited his entrepreneurial spirit from his parents and quickly made a name for himself in the business world after studying commerce at Saint Mary’s University. With a strong sense of personal responsibility and a dedication to excellence, Migel has played a key role in the success of Antoinette’s Cheesecakes, managing multiple businesses and companies at a young age.

Together, Antoinette and Migel have created more than just a bakery—they’ve built a community around their shared passion for delicious treats and heartfelt

hospitality. As they embark on this new chapter in Sackville, they look forward to sharing their love for cheesecakes with the local community and continuing to spread joy, one slice at a time.

The warm welcome from the Sackville community has been overwhelming, with residents expressing their excitement and support for the new shop. “So happy to see this here in Sackville,” one resident remarked, while another exclaimed, “What a great addition to our community!” Such enthusiasm led to the shop selling out of cheesecake not once but twice, demonstrating the eagerness of locals to embrace and enjoy Antoinette’s delectable creations. “The love and support we received when we opened our Sackville location is indescribable! Every kind word and well wishes was heartfelt. It brings us great joy to open a location in a community we call home!” says Antoinette.

Antoinette’s Cheesecakes is more than just a bakery—it’s a family affair and a story of resilience and success in the face of challenges. From humble beginnings to a beloved local institution, Antoinette and Migel’s dedication and passion shine through in every slice of cheesecake, bringing joy and sweetness to the hearts of Sackville residents.

Crafting a Festive Charcuterie Board

The holiday season is the perfect time to get creative with a festive charcuterie board. These impressive spreads are easier to create than they look. Here’s how to make your own in five simple steps.

1

Start with a Solid Base

Choose a large board or platter. Ensure it’s spacious enough to accommodate your ingredients while still leaving room for a visually pleasing arrangement.

2

Mix & Match Cheeses

Incorporate a variety of cheeses—soft, hard, and aged. Popular choices like brie and cheddar create a nice contrast, and mixing cheeses from different milk sources (cow, goat, or sheep) will add extra flavour.

3 4 5

Balance with Salty & Sweet

Add salty charcuterie meats like prosciutto and salami, paired with nuts and olives. Then, balance it out with sweet elements like grapes, figs, or cranberries for a pop of colour.

Include Crackers & Spreads

Offer a selection of crackers and a flavorful spread, such as red pepper jelly or chutney. These additions allow your guests to mix and match, enhancing the overall experience.

Add a Festive Touch

Finish your board with holiday garnishes like rosemary sprigs, cranberries, or even holidaythemed cookies. These small touches make your board feel extra festive and inviting.

Where to Get Your Holiday Charcuterie Supplies

Get everything you need for your holiday charcuterie board from these Sackville businesses:

Atlantic Superstore 745 Sackville Drive

Giant Tiger 720 Sackville Drive

Lawtons Drugs 665 Sackville Drive

Locally Baked Outlet 622 Sackville Drive

M&M Food Market 799 Sackville Drive

MediTerra Kitchen 111 Cobequid Road

Redchillies Bazaar 601 Sackville Drive

Shoppers Drug Mart 766 Sackville Drive

Sobeys 752 Sackville Drive

Spice Hub Indian Groceries 73 Sackville Drive

Talya’s Taverna 799 Sackville Drive

Wheaton’s 27 Walker Avenue

10 Thoughtful Gift Ideas from Independent Retailers in Sackville

Goat Plush Cuddler

Support Sackville’s independent retailers with these thoughtfully curated gift ideas. From personalized touches to cozy comforts, these unique items are sure to make a lasting impression.

Billie

Sackville Flyers Rubber Patch Toque Sportwheels Sports Excellence 209 Sackville Drive $34.99

Locally Made Cribbage Board by Cheerful and Cheeky Cape and Cowl Comics and Collectibles 622 Sackville Drive $79.99

Critter Plant Pot Blossom Shops 668 Sackville Drive

Personalized Guitar Holder EurekaGifts 73 Sackville Drive $75.00

Hammerhead Lures Mackerel Jig

Chasin’ Tides Tackle Shop 622 Sackville Drive $6.99

Soy Wax Candle by Ouu Burn Candle Co. The Ultimate Party & Rental Store 614 Sackville Drive $21.99

$14.50 (plus $7 for haworthia plant)

Financial Services DIRECTORY

Explore our local financial service providers to find the support you need for managing your finances. From banking to investment advice, our directory includes a range of services available in Sackville.

BANKS & CREDIT UNIONS

BMO Bank of Montreal

779 Sackville Drive | 902-864-2422

CIBC

745 Sackville Drive | 902-869-3400

East Coast Credit Union

541 Sackville Drive | 902-865-7870

RBC Royal Bank

790 Sackville Drive | 902-869-3060

Scotiabank 518 Sackville Drive | 902-864-2228

TD Canada Trust

752 Sackville Drive | 902-864-3515

FINANCIAL ADVISORS

Edward Jones 405 Sackville Drive | 902-864-5399

Cooperators: SA Kennedy Financial Group Inc. 91 Sackville Drive | 902-864-2922

MORTGAGE BROKERS

Mortgage Alliance 294 Cobequid Road | 902-237-7304

The Mortgage Group 91 Sackville Drive | 902-835-3407

Financial Services DIRECTORY

AMC Chartered Professional Accountants Inc. 405 Sackville Drive | 902-865-7500

Hyland’s Financial Records 27 Sackville Cross Road | 902-865-5353

H&R Block

619 Sackville Drive | 902-864-1526

Jessome & Associates 73 Temple Terrace | 902-865-1019

Peverill & Associates Inc. 5 Florence Street | 902-865-6580

Seaboyer Accounting & Services Inc. 153 Sackville Drive | 902-864-1045

easyfinancial 720 Sackville Drive | 902-864-0977 Fairstone 799 Sackville Drive | 902-865-6871 Money Direct 592 Sackville Drive | 902-864-8990 Money Mart Sackville 601 Sackville Drive | 902-864-8490

Speedy Cash 501 Sackville Drive | 902-704-1556

Struggling With Chronic Pain?

Discover the Benefits of Osteopathy!

Osteopathy employs gentle techniques to relieve:

• Back Pain

• Sciatica

• Headaches

• Arthritis

• Whiplash

• Jaw Misalignment

• And Much More!

73 Orchard Drive, Middle Sackville 902-830-6519 www.orchardhealing.ca

Contact Jocelyn at Orchard Healing today!

At the Hospice Thrift Store, 100% of revenue from every purchase directly supports free, end-of-life care for patients and families at Hospice Halifax. This holiday season, gift your loved ones high-quality, new-to-you clothing and accessories while giving the gift of essential, compassionate care to your community.

Visit us in store or find us online!

32 Glendale Ave, Lower Sackville

Monday to Thursday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Friday to Saturday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

hospicehalifax.ca

hospicethriftstore.ca

The Hospice Thrift Store

Family 1st Medical Offers:

• Sleep Testing

• CPAP & BiPAP Therapy

• Home & Portable Oxygen

• Wheelchairs & Scooters

• Elevators & Stairlifts

• Bath Safety & Ceiling Lifts

• Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS)

If you’re looking for professional care & knowledgeable answers to your questions, contact Erin Perry RRT or Holly Mitchell RRT at our Lower Sackville office. Family 1st is a local RESPIRATORY & MOBILITY company that has been serving Nova Scotia since 1987.

Holly Mitchell RRT
Erin Perry RRT

Building Futures for a More Inclusive Tomorrow

“Our mission is to empower individuals to make their contribution to society, with a vision to positively impact our world through the promotion of acceptance and inclusion”

Building Futures Employment Society has been a cornerstone in Sackville and surrounding communities for over 50 years. Founded by dedicated parents in 1973, the organization’s goal was to improve the quality of life for individuals with intellectual disabilities transitioning out of the school system. Over the years, Building Futures has evolved and occupied several locations, moving to its current site at 61 Glendale Avenue in Lower Sackville in 1982.

Building Futures continues to make a significant impact through its Adult Service Centre Day Program, offering a range of programming

Above: Employees at Futures PrintShop (left), Assembly Plus (top right), and Futures Café (bottom right)

and supported employment opportunities. “Our mission is to empower individuals to make their contribution to society, with a vision to positively impact our world through the promotion of acceptance and inclusion,” says Executive Director Jennifer Greek.

A unique aspect of Building Futures is its commitment to social enterprises that provide meaningful and fair-waged employment for participants. These include Futures Café, which offers pre-ordered frozen meals and expanded catering services while providing culinary training and job opportunities; Futures PrintShop, delivering copying and printing services to local businesses and residents; Assembly Plus, which supports HRM businesses with assembly, packaging, and light manufacturing while offering practical work experience; and Futures Birds, which showcases participants’ artistic skills through handcrafted bird decorations for outdoor spaces. “These social enterprises provide the opportunity to offer supported employment jobs to our participants,” Greek adds.

The organization is filled with inspiring stories of personal growth, such as Jessica’s. Initially quiet and unsure about working, Jessica discovered a passion for learning through the Futures Café program, mastering culinary skills and later becoming an entrepreneur. With the support of Building Futures

staff, she now sells her handmade toques and scarves at local markets. “Jessica continues to impress us, and we can’t wait to see what else she’ll do!” says Greek.

Embedded deeply within the local community, Building Futures relies on support and gives back through volunteer work and partnerships with Sackville businesses. The community is encouraged to support Building Futures by purchasing products, becoming corporate partners, volunteering, or donating, with charitable tax receipts available. With its continued commitment to empowerment and inclusion, Building Futures is poised to keep fostering a more accepting society for adults with intellectual disabilities.

Above: Jessica with yarn and a knitting loom
Below: Employees at Assembly Plus

Sackville Snow Days: A Decade of Frosty Fun

Sackville Snow Days returns for its 11th year from February 1417, 2025, continuing its tradition of bringing the community together for a weekend full of winter fun. For the past decade, Snow Days has been a staple in Sackville, attracting thousands of participants and showcasing the incredible spirit of local businesses, community groups, and volunteers.

In past years, Sackville Snow Days has featured over 30 events, including activities like skating, sledding, and curling. Families have enjoyed pancake breakfasts,

movie nights with popcorn, and the excitement of live music and fireworks. The creativity of the community has also shone through with events like cookie decorating, paint nights, and even the unique craft of butter making. Each event is organized by local businesses, organizations, and volunteers who dedicate their time to planning and executing the event from start to finish, ensuring it is extra special for everyone.

shared her

February 14-17, 2025 www.sackvillesnowdays.com

excitement about the upcoming festival, “Snow Days has truly become a celebration of community, thanks to the amazing collaboration of those involved behind the scenes. We owe it all to the backbone of Snow Days—the volunteers—who go above and beyond to make this event so special for families and neighbours. Seeing the smiling faces and the joy of the community makes it all worthwhile.”

The community and participants alike love the opportunity to try out a variety of events each year. A past participant fondly recalls their

experience at the festival, saying, “We joined in on various activities every day! We especially enjoyed the skating and the events at the library, including the book giveaways. The fireworks were definitely a highlight for my family!”

As the community gears up for this winter tradition, everyone is invited to join in the fun and celebrate the spirit of Sackville. For a full schedule of events and more details, keep an eye on SBA’s social media and website at www.sackvillesnowdays.com

Finding the Right Support: Mental Health Resources in Sackville

Taking care of your mental health is as crucial as your physical health, and Sackville offers a range of innovative therapy options tailored to diverse needs and preferences. This article explores four lesser-known therapy approaches available in our community, each offering a unique method to support and enhance mental health.

Accelerated Resolution Therapy

Accelerated Resolution

Therapy (ART) is a rapid form of psychotherapy designed to help clients overcome trauma and mental health issues. Clients can find relief within the first few or early sessions. By utilizing relaxing eye movements and techniques such as Voluntary Memory and Image Replacement, ART transforms how negative images are stored in the brain, reducing emotional and physical responses to past traumas.

“Trauma is a deeply personal experience, often carrying heavy emotional burdens that can disrupt daily life, relationships, and

mental well-being. For individuals grappling with difficult emotions stemming from traumatic events, ART offers an innovative approach to healing.”

— Rose Degenhardt, Venture Counselling & Therapy Inc.

Gender Identity Support Therapy

Gender Identity Support Therapy provides a safe and affirming environment for individuals exploring their gender identity. This therapy supports clients through self-discovery and acceptance, offering guidance for those questioning their gender,

Venture Counselling & Therapy Inc.

PSYCHOLOGY AND COUNSELLING SERVICES IN SACKVILLE

Curran Counselling and Consulting

281 Sackville Drive 902-789-9870

Esinam Counselling 447 Sackville Drive 902-252-0595

Grady Psychological Services

265 Sackville Drive 902-223-6853

Lifemark CORE Physiotherapy & Rehabilitation Centre

857 Sackville Drive 902-252-2600

PROTx Services 667 Sackville Drive 902-334-2300

Quigg Counselling & Therapy Services 1 Pinehill Drive info@quiggtherapy.com

undergoing transition, or seeking support. It also extends support to families and loved ones.

“We work to meet all people where they are and create a safe space for exploring their gender identity. We understand there is no ‘one way’ to express gender and that each journey is unique. We avoid ‘one size fits all’ approaches, supporting each individual by walking alongside them rather than taking the lead.”

Family Systems Therapy

Family Systems Therapy focuses on enhancing family dynamics by understanding and addressing patterns of behaviour and relationships within the family unit. This approach assists families in navigating conflicts, improving communication, and strengthening connections among members.

“Family Systems Therapy is a unique approach that allows families to work together and individually to tackle challenges in their dynamics. It focuses on understanding each person’s role within the family and how these roles influence the overall family unit.”

— Adam Grady, Grady Psychological Services

Play Therapy Informed Counselling

Play Therapy Informed Counselling employs play as a therapeutic tool to help children express their feelings and address challenges. By engaging in play, children can communicate and process emotions in a natural and less intimidating manner.

Venture Counselling & Therapy Inc.

578 Sackville Drive 902-707-6844

“Play Therapy Informed Counselling offers children a space to work through their ‘big world problems’ using play. Since children often lack the language to express emotions, play helps them process complex feelings, heal traumas, and regulate emotions. Therapists reflect their emotions, attune to their needs, and observe themes in their play.”

Now Accepting New Patients!

Wondering how often you should have an eye exam?

For Kids:

• Between 6-9 months old

• At least once between 2-5

• Yearly while in school (MSI covers kids’ eye exams once every two years until they turn 10!)

For Adults: Every two years for healthy adults

Seniors: Yearly over the age of 65

Emergency Eye Care Available

We offer emergency eye care services, covered by MSI for conditions such as metallic foreign body removal, “pink eye,” eye infections, sudden onset flashes/floaters, and more.

Introducing the 2024 Sackville Business Awards Winners

The Sackville Business Awards winners were announced at Sackville Business Association’s Business Gala and Awards ceremony in October. This campaign showcases Sackville’s businesses and business leaders that deserve recognition for their outstanding achievement or contribution to the Sackville business community.

The two awards - Business of the Year and Best Customer Service - were presented to two local businesses. Voting was held online during the month of September with over 600 nominations from the community! Thanks to everyone who voted and participated in this year’s Sackville Business Awards. We hope you enjoy the following messages from the 2024 award recipients.

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

Kaiser’s Sub & Sandwich Shoppes

799 Sackville Drive

“We are very honoured to receive this award. We have been a part of this vibrant community for almost 49 years and have been amazed at its growth. The people here are tremendous. We are so fortunate to be here. They say the three most important things for a successful business are: location, location, and location. It’s been proven every year since we opened our doors in February of 1976 that Sackville is a wonderful location to be in and from. Thank you so much for thinking of us and taking the time to nominate us. Ellisha, I, and all our staff appreciate your patronage and loyalty. Thank you, thank you, thank you.”

— Rick Baker, owner of Kaiser’s Sub and Sandwich Shoppes

BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE

Roy’s Restaurant

720 Sackville Drive

“Winning this award means our customers recognize that we work hard to provide the best customer service. This acknowledgment from our customers shows we have been successful. I’ve trained my team to greet every customer like they are family. I build my businesses on relationships with customers—we know them by name. When customers walk in, we know what they want to eat. As a team, we truly appreciate this recognition for Roy’s Restaurant. We love our customers and we would like to say a huge thank you!”

— Roy Khoury, owner of Roy’s Restaurant

Rick and his daughter, Ellisha

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.