COFFEE, COCKTAILS & CRAFT BEER Find your next sweet summer sip in Sackville Pg 6-7 SUMMER EVENTS IN YOUR COMMUNITY What you need to know to make the most out of summer Pg 21-22 SACKVILLE GOES TO NATIONALS A major milestone for Special Olympics Sackville-Bedford Pg 25-26
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 semiannually by Sackville Business Association (SBA). Inside, you’ll find local stories, business highlights, and plenty of inspiration for making the most of the summer season and beyond. We invite you to flip through, explore, and celebrate all that makes our community such a great place to call home.
Publication Team
Managing Editor: Michelle Champniss
Content Writers: Taylor Morrison and Leaf Korthals
Graphic Designers: Katie O’Brien and Emily Murphy
Publisher: Sackville Business Association
For advertising inquiries, contact advertising@sackvillebusiness.com
Instagram: @sackvillebusiness
Facebook: /SackvilleBusiness
TikTok: @sackvillebusiness
Website: sackvillebusiness.com
Most of the photos in this magazine highlight members of our community, as well as local events and places, including the cover photo, which was taken during a live performance by Wontanara Drum & Dance at the 2025 Sackville Sunset Market at Acadia Park, 650 Sackville Drive.
Sackville’s Coaching Star: Steve Baur
Steve Baur’s path to the Olympic sidelines began not in a national training centre, but in the local gymnasiums of Lower Sackville.
A recent inductee into the Sackville Sports Heritage Hall of Fame, the Sackville-raised coach is being recognized for a career that transformed local basketball before moving to the world stage.
Baur’s impact on the community was immediate. His early involvement included coaching minor basketball in Sackville, where he initiated a league to provide local youth with playing opportunities. This commitment to development followed him to the provincial level, where he served as a coach for Basketball Nova Scotia and eventually as the organization’s vice-president of operations.
His coaching progression moved from Sackville to the university ranks, spending nearly a decade at Acadia University. As head coach of the Axemen from 2008 to 2014,
he secured an Atlantic University Sport (AUS) championship in 2012 and led the program to four consecutive national Final 8 appearances.
“Watch as these women show others what is possible and follow as these women lead, without a spotlight or glory, to make real change,”
However, Baur’s most significant national contribution has been his decade-long influence on women’s sports in Canada. Since 2014, he has been a cornerstone of the women’s high performance program, serving through three Olympic cycles: Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020, and Paris 2024. Now
Photo credit: Canada Basketball
serving as the vice-president and general manager of women’s high performance, Baur’s leadership aligns with a broader mission at Canada Basketball to level the court for female athletes.
“People will question your career decisions,” says Baur. “You do not need to explain yourself.”
The organization is committed to keeping young girls and women in the game by providing equal opportunity and experiences for everyone—a goal Baur has championed as an advocate for the growth of the women’s game at both the 5v5 and 3x3 levels.
This dedication to the women’s game is deeply personal for Baur, a father of daughters. In a letter
to his younger self, he reflected on how the path he chose would connect him with women who would “change everything.”
“Watch as these women show others what is possible and follow as these women lead, without a spotlight or glory, to make real change,” says Baur. He noted that his daughters are a blessing and that for any coach or supporter, it is a privilege to “sit back and watch women win—it is an incredible ride.”
A journey that started on the courts of Sackville, Baur’s story is a testament to the power of persistence. If it were not for a steadfast belief in himself and the courage to follow his dreams in the sport he loves, he may have listened to the skeptics along the way. “People will question your career decisions,” says Baur. “You do not need to explain yourself.”
Information Courtesy of Sackville Sports Heritage Hall of Fame and Canada Basketball
Photo credit: Alberta Basketball
COFFEE, COCKTAILS & CRAFT BEER
From your morning pick-me-up to your evening unwind, these Sackville destinations have a drink for every pace of your day.
Cafés and Coffee Shops
Fuel Your Day
Apartment 3
Espresso Bar 833 Sackville Drive
Starbucks
745 Sackville Drive 858 Sackville Drive
The Pink Piano Café & Lounge 585 Sackville Drive
Tim Hortons 629 Sackville Drive
Cocktails and Mocktails
Cheers with Curated Classics
Boston Pizza 710 Sackville Drive
Casa di Stefano 70 First Lake Drive
Freeman’s Little New York 552 Sackville Drive
Fry Daddy’s Fry & Grill 1622 Sackville Drive
Great Roads Brewing 111 Cobequid Road
Hong’s Kitchen 584 Sackville Drive
May Garden Chinese Restaurant 829 Sackville Drive
Craft on Tap
Taste Local Brews
Boston Pizza 710 Sackville Drive
Freeman’s Little New York 552 Sackville Drive
Fry Daddy’s Fry & Grill 1622 Sackville Drive
Great Roads Brewing 111 Cobequid Road
Roy’s Restaurant 720 Sackville Drive
Redchillies Royale Bar & Grill 720 Sackville Drive
Roy’s Restaurant 720 Sackville Drive
St. Louis Bar & Grill 792 Sackville Drive
Tap & Timber Social 963 Sackville Drive
The Pink Piano Café & Lounge 585 Sackville Drive
Tom’s Family Restaurant 585 Sackville Drive
St. Louis Bar & Grill 792 Sackville Drive
Tap & Timber Social 963 Sackville Drive
TAPestry Beer Bar 833 Sackville Drive
Tom’s Family Restaurant 585 Sackville Drive
Freeman’s Little New York
Tom’s Family Restaurant
Great Roads Brewing
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
Urgent Eye Care Available
We offer urgent eye care services, covered by MSI for conditions such as metallic foreign body removal, “pink eye,” eye infections, sudden onset flashes/floaters, and more. By appointment only (not walk-ins).
Scan the QR code or visit muiseoptometry.ca to book your appointment today!
Enjoy hassle-free payment with our direct billing option for insurance.
Dr. France Muise, Optometrist 405 Sackville Drive, inside Vogue Optical, Lower Sackville, NS info@muiseoptometry.ca (902) 864-0505
A Book Lover’s Dream Come True
If you haven’t yet wandered into FluffyCat Books, tucked away at 546 Sackville Drive, you’re missing a charming spot for readers of all ages. From gently used novels to hidden literary gems, the shop captures the thrill of discovering a book that feels made just for you—a joy Sophia Coen, owner of FluffyCat Books, knows all too well.
Coen is a lifelong reader who has worked in bookstores for years. Owning her own store was always a dream. She says: “I’ve always loved books, and bookstores have always been my happy place. When I moved to Lower Sackville, my first thought was, ‘This community could really use a secondhand bookstore!’ I had years of experience working in bookstores, so I thought, why not open my own?”
The name FluffyCat Books came from an unlikely source—Coen’s cat, Boop. “One night, Boop
kept lying on the notepad where I was brainstorming store names. I realized it had to be cat-themed! I love books, I love my floofy cats, and it just clicked.”
“I’ve always loved books, and bookstores have always been my happy place. When I moved to Lower Sackville, my first thought was, ‘This community could really use a secondhand bookstore!’”
While Boop doesn’t visit the shop regularly, her spirit is felt throughout the shelves.
Inside, the store offers a carefully curated selection of gently used books, favouring recent publications in excellent condition. “We try to avoid anything torn, water-damaged, or heavily annotated. The goal is books that feel like new,” Coen explains.
“It’s important to me that this is a bright, warm and welcoming place to excite local readers, book lovers, or really anyone who happens to stop by.”
There is also a book search list for patrons looking for specific titles or authors, with staff setting books aside when they arrive.
The community has embraced the store with enthusiasm. “There are truly too many memorable
moments to pick from, but some favourites include one customer dancing around the store from excitement, another taking three steps in, pausing for 10 seconds with her mouth open, and finally exclaiming ‘YES!’ before browsing.” Others have left flowers, cat decor or glowing reviews after finding older or obscure books that the store tracked down for them.
FluffyCat Books is more than a bookstore; it’s a place for connection. Coen says: “It’s important to me that this is a bright, warm and welcoming place to excite local readers, book lovers, or really anyone who happens to stop by.”
Right now, Coen is soaking up the support from the community. She says: “We are so grateful for every person who donates books, stops by to visit, keeps coming back, leaves us a positive review, tags us in bookhaul posts, or tells everyone they know about our store. I’m just a humble book nerd living the dream.” Looking ahead, she plans to bring in new books from local authors and host pop-up signings in the store, giving readers even more ways to discover and connect with stories they love.
Kid-Approved Summer Staycation
You don’t need to pack your bags to find a great summer adventure. Whether you are looking to beat the heat, burn off some energy on a rainy day, or get out into nature, Sackville is packed with local spots that make a family staycation easy and fun.
1. Dive into the Sackville Sports Stadium
Located at 409 Glendale Drive, the Stadium is the go-to spot for active families. Whether your kids are looking forward to swimming, skating, or other activities for kids of all ages, there is always something happening to keep everyone moving.
2. Cool Off at the Sackville Splash Pad
When the temperature rises, head to 71 First Lake Drive. The Sackville Splash Pad is a favourite for kids to cool off with water play and fun features.
3. Play at Sackville’s Indoor Playground
Check out FunZone Indoor Playground at 745 Sackville Drive. This beloved new spot has a big slide, a ball pit, and lots of climbing opportunities to burn off some extra energy.
4. Plan a Beach Day
Pack a picnic and make a day of it at 71 First Lake Drive. With the sandy beach and calm water, it’s the perfect spot for a classic summer afternoon.
5. Uncover Summer Stories at the Library
Take a trip to the Sackville Public Library (636 Sackville Drive) to participate in summer reading programs and other kid-friendly events. It’s a great way to keep young minds engaged while having fun.
Even more on the next page!
Sackville Splash Pad
FunZone
Indoor Playground
Sackville Public Library
Sackville Sports Stadium
6. Hit the Trails
Sackville’s trail system is a local treasure! For a paved, beginner-friendly adventure, head to the Sackville Greenway (690 Sackville Drive)—it’s perfect for strollers, scooters, or a family bike ride. If you’re looking to get closer to nature, the Second Lake Provincial Park trails (440 First Lake Drive) are a great place to wander through the wilderness and spot local wildlife.
7. Explore the Past at Fultz House
It may be summer break, but there is still plenty of learning to do. Learn about the history of our community at Fultz House Museum (33 Sackville Drive).
8. Visit Acadia Park
Head to 650 Sackville Drive to walk through the beautiful gardens or burn off some energy on the large, accessible playground.
9. Striking Fun at Sackville Superbowl Pick teams and get to bowling at 300 Sackville Drive for some classic family competition.
10. Catch a Movie at Cineplex
Head to 760 Sackville Drive to catch a new release on the big screen or level up your day in the arcade.
Cineplex
Scoop! There it is!
Check out this sweet lineup of spots to cool off with ice cream during your summer staycation:
• Burger King (641 Sackville Drive)
• Dairy Queen (752 Sackville Drive)
• Fry Daddy’s Fry & Grill (1622 Sackville Drive)
• McDonald’s (517 Sackville Drive)
• Peelers Scoops (280 Sackville Drive)
• Saints Ice Cream (833 Sackville Drive)
• Wendy’s (720 Sackville Drive)
Photo credit: Amy Holloway
Photo credit: @c_smithphotography
Sackville Greenway
Fultz House
Acadia Park
Cinemas Lower Sackville
SACKVILLE DINING DIRECTORY
Cafés & Bakeries
Antoinette’s Cheesecakes
858 Sackville Drive | 902-864-2094
Apartment 3 Espresso Bar 833 Sackville Drive | 902-869-0269
Booster Juice 720 Sackville Drive | 902-865-6330
Starbucks
745 Sackville Drive | 902-864-2299
858 Sackville Drive | 782-812-1436
The Pink Piano Café & Lounge
585 Sackville Drive | 902-864-6401
Tim Hortons 629 Sackville Drive | 902-865-6618
Casual Dining & Pubs
Boston Pizza
710 Sackville Drive | 902-252-7777
East Coast Smokehouse, BBQ, Deli & Catering Co. 1053 Sackville Drive | 902-706-0204
Freeman’s Little New York 552 Sackville Drive | 902-865-2555
Casa di Stefano 70 First Lake Drive | 902-865-1111
Redchillies Royale Bar & Grill
720 Sackville Drive | 902-865-7850
Photo credit: East Coast Food Stories
SACKVILLE’S PATIO SCENE
Tom’s Family Restaurant
Whether you’re craving a wood fired pizza, a fresh Mediterranean dish, a classic burger and fries, or simply a sunny spot to catch up with a friend while sipping a refreshing drink, Sackville has the perfect patio for you.
Apartment 3 Espresso Bar
833 Sackville Drive
This bright, cozy patio tucked away on Sackville Drive is perfect for a quiet coffee break or a sunny afternoon with a friend. ��
Boston Pizza
710 Sackville Drive
A lively, family-friendly patio where casual dining and a fun, energetic atmosphere make every meal feel like a summer outing. ��
Casa di Stefano
70 First Lake Drive
Coming soon: a tucked-away back courtyard patio that offers a calm, inviting space to enjoy a meal with friends in a relaxed setting. ��
Freeman’s Little New York
552 Sackville Drive
A charming street-side patio with a warm, welcoming vibe—a great spot to gather with friends and soak up the summer air. ��
Fry Daddy’s Fry & Grill
1622 Sackville Drive
A cheerful, laid-back patio where friends can catch up over a meal in a relaxed summer atmosphere.
Great Roads Brewing
111 Cobequid Road
A neighbourhood pub patio perfect for enjoying locally crafted beverages, casual bites, and sunshine with good company. ��
Starbucks 858 Sackville Drive
A bright and inviting patio for coffee breaks, casual meet-ups, or just a sunny spot to pause and recharge. ��
St. Louis Bar & Grill
792 Sackville Drive
A bustling, spacious patio that’s lively and social—perfect for sharing a meal and soaking up the summer. ��
Tap & Timber Social
963 Sackville Drive
A one-of-a-kind patio and beer garden nestled in the trees, great for enjoying drinks and conversation in a nature-inspired setting. ��
TAPestry Beer Bar
833 Sackville Drive
A cozy urban patio designed for sipping local craft beverages and relaxing with friends in a laid-back atmosphere. ��
Tom’s Family Restaurant
585 Sackville Drive
A friendly neighbourhood patio where you can enjoy a relaxed meal and casual conversation with family or friends.
�� Dog-friendly space
TAPestry Beer Bar
You won’t want to miss these summer events in Sackville. From outdoor movies to local markets and festivals, there are events for all ages happening across the community. Browse the list below for a glimpse of what’s coming up this summer.
MAY 2
Sackville Farmers’ Market
Every Saturday Starting May 2 | 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Acadia Hall
650 Sackville Drive
Spend your Saturday mornings at the Sackville Farmers’ Market! Browse a wide variety of local makers, bakers, and farmers offering fresh produce, prepared foods, eggs, meats, and handcrafted goods.
MAY 30
Rods to Wheels Automotive Show
May 30 | 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
75 Temple Terrace
Hosted by the Kinsmen Club of Sackville in support of MS Canada, this annual show is a must-see for car enthusiasts. Enjoy exhibitor awards, food trucks, an online auction, race cars, and a model car hobby show.
July 1-4
10 Must-Attend Events
Happening in Sackville This Summer
Sackville Community Days
July 1 to 4
Various locations across Sackville
Kick off July with fireworks, concerts, a parade, and the Teddy Bear Picnic. This family-friendly celebration brings the community together in honour of Canada Day.
July 4
Sackville Sunset Market
July 4 | 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Acadia Park
650 Sackville Drive
Experience a beautiful summer evening at the Sackville Sunset Market. Browse a vibrant makers’ market, enjoy multicultural performances, and take in the lively atmosphere. With children’s activities and an accessible playground, it’s an event for all ages.
July 7
Tuesday Teas
Every Tuesday from July 7 to August 18
12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Fultz House Museum
33 Sackville Drive
Enjoy a classic spread of sandwiches and sweets served with tea, coffee, or lemonade. Tickets are $12 and must be purchased by the Friday prior. To reserve, email fultz.house@ ns.sympatico.ca or call 902-865-3794.
July 11
Summer Movies in the Park
July 11 | 7 p.m. & 9 p.m.
Acadia Park
650 Sackville Drive
Sackville Business Association presents free outdoor movies in the park! Bring your blankets and chairs for back-to-back double features of Over the Hedge (PG) and Legally Blonde (PG-13). Note: Children must be accompanied by an adult.
July 15
Summer Fun Fest
July 15 | 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Sackville Heights Community Centre
45 Connolly Road
A lively evening featuring games, activities, bouncy castles, and treats. It’s a great opportunity to connect with neighbours and celebrate summer together.
July 18
Sackville Pride Carnival
July 18 | 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Sackville Public Library 636 Sackville Drive
Celebrate Pride with a photo booth, scavenger hunt, and craft stations. This is an inclusive event for all ages.
Aug 8
Summer Movies in the Park
August 8 | 7 p.m. & 9 p.m.
Acadia Park
650 Sackville Drive
Sackville Business Association presents free outdoor movies in the park! Bring your blankets and chairs for a backto-back double feature: Space Jam (PG) followed by The Bourne Identity (PG-13). Note: Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Aug 25
Fun Day
August 25 | 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
Fultz House Museum 33 Sackville Drive
This free community event features games, activities, bouncy castles, and food while supplies last. A perfect way to wrap up the summer with family and friends.
For full details on the events listed above and to discover even more happening in our community, visit: www.sackvillebusiness.com/events
Note: Some events are weatherdependent and subject to change.
Summer Movies in the Park
Tuesday Teas
Office Hours: Weekdays am9:30 to 2:30pm
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Sackville will be well-represented on the national stage this summer, as 17 local athletes, seven coaches, and one mission staff from Special Olympics Sackville-Bedford have officially qualified for the 2026 Special Olympics National Canada Summer Games in Medicine Hat, Alberta.
“I’m so excited to be going to the Canada games,” says Xavier. “I’m proud to wear the captain’s armband.”
The group of national qualifiers earned their spots through standout performances at the provincial games, marking a major milestone for Special Olympics Sackville-Bedford,
a non-profit, volunteer driven organization which serves 166 athletes year-round and has over 50 registered volunteers. Among those heading west is soccer co-captain Xavier Tyler. Xavier started with Special Olympics through the Fundamentals program when he was six years old. For the past decade he’s competed in the soccer program. This year, Xavier was voted into his leadership role by his teammates for a second consecutive time.
Middle ,Sackville N.S.
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“I’m so excited to be going to the Canada games,” says Xavier. “I’m proud to wear the captain’s armband. Special Olympics means being part of a team; it’s where I’ve made great friends and learned leadership skills.”
Office Hours: Weekdays am9:30 to 2:30pm (Meetings by ntment)Appoi 6467-865-902
His mother, Jenny Tyler, who serves as the region’s fundraising coordinator, has watched his
ml@gmail.comabradjohns
growth since he started Special Olympics. She remembers those early days vividly. “When I first stepped into a fundamentals class with my son, I was beyond nervous,” says Jenny. “What I found was an extended family who supported our entire family unit.”
That support has helped Xavier thrive. “He has gone from a quiet participant to a leader who encourages his teammates,” she adds. “That ‘I can’ attitude has bled into every other part of his life, from school to his social circles.”
Also heading to Alberta is swimmer Maxim Thibault. A dedicated member of the swim program for the past seven years, Thibault is focused on hitting personal bests in the pool while embracing the national community.
“I’m really proud to represent Nova Scotia. I’m excited to meet athletes like me from all over Canada,” says Thibault. “It’s a great place to compete and improve, but it’s also an amazing community where I’ve made a lot of friends.”
The journey for these 17 athletes is supported by fundraising and support from community sponsors.
Jenny notes that the community’s support provides a vital “Return on Inclusion” for local families.
“Our coaches are more than just instructors; they are builders of our athletes and their families,” says Jenny. “When I see an athlete or a family who thought they couldn’t participate finally join a session because our community stepped up, that is something we should all be incredibly proud of.”
As the qualifiers ramp up their training, the organization continues to invite local residents and community members to get involved as coaches or volunteers.
“If you have a heart for people and a little bit of time, you’re already qualified,” says Jenny. “You might think you’re showing up to change their lives, but I promise you, they are the ones who will change yours.”
If you’d like to get involved as an athlete or volunteer, please email sosbregistrar@gmail.com. Those interested in supporting Special Olympics SackvilleBedford through a donation or sponsorship are encouraged to reach out to Jenny at sosbfundraisingcoordinator@ gmail.com.
Pictured: Maxim Thibault
Halifax's Leading Choice for Independent Hearing Care
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Earwax
Tinnitus
More Than a Business: Why We Chose Sackville
As a business owner, you are often told to chase bigger markets. But for some, staying home and supporting the community that has supported you from the beginning offers a bigger reward.
Mike MacNamara, president of Ryco Kitchenworks, faced that decision after 40 years in the foodservice equipment industry. When it came time to launch their own venture in 2024, Mike and his wife Evelyn carefully considered where to open their doors. As long-time residents of Sackville, the choice was ultimately clear. They chose to open their business in the community they call home. “Sackville is part of who we are, and we know that staying here to grow our business is the right move for Ryco,” says Mike.
Ryco Kitchenworks, located at 78 First Lake Drive, is a local, familyoperated supply house providing equipment, design, and financing to independent operators across the Maritimes.
Family is at the heart of Ryco Kitchenworks. Mike and Evelyn both grew up in Sackville, met at
Sackville High School, and raised their two sons here, both of whom are now involved in the business. Working on projects like The Meadows, a new 144-room longterm care facility at 321 Cobequid Road—a meaningful project in their very own community—is especially significant. “Being able to contribute to something that directly supports residents and the teams who care for them makes this work rewarding,” Mike says.
“Sackville is part of who we are, and we know that staying here to grow our business is the right move for Ryco,”
Choosing to stay in the community was the natural choice for the MacNamaras and one they continue to be thankful they made. “We’re incredibly grateful for the support Sackville has shown us and the numerous relationships we’ve been able to build to date,” says Mike.
The Meadows, 321 Cobequid Rd.
L VE SACKVILLE DAY THANK YOU!
SATURDAY, MAY 30
Sackville businesses are sharing the love. On May 30, many Sackville businesses will be hosting special promotions and events as a way to thank the community for their ongoing support. Join your favourite local businesses for a day of celebration dedicated to the neighbours who make this community feel like home.
Love Sackville Day
Saturday, May 30
Celebrate with exclusive deals, discounts, and special events all day long!
ENJOY
• Bookmark-Making Workshop
• Character Meet-and-Greet (Featuring Spider-Man!)
• Vintage Sidewalk Sale
Celebrate with exclusive deals, discounts, and special events all day long!
• And so much more!
WHAT’S IN STORE ACTIVITIES
Sackville’s local businesses are sharing the love. This day is a heart felt thank you for the incredible support you show Sackville yearround. Join your favourite local businesses for a day of celebration dedicated to the neighbours who make this community home. www.lovesackvilleday.com for a full list of participating businesses, discounts, deals, and special events.
• Bookmark-Making Workshop
WHAT’S IN STORE PLAN YOUR DAY
• Character Meet-and-Greet (Featuring Spider-Man!)
• Vintage Sidewalk Sale
• And so much more!
Visit www.lovesackvilleday.com for a full list of participating businesses, discounts, deals, and special events.
Sackville Business Association is a non-profit association that represents 340+ businesses. Through the support of these businesses, and in cooperation with other local organizations, we undertake activities that help build and beautify our amazing community. Below we have highlighted a few of the initiatives accomplished over the past year.