SACKVILLE STAR: JAYSON BAXTER
On growing up in Sackville, and a look at his amazing career Pg 4-5
FESTIVE EVENTS IN SACKVILLE Makers’ markets, a tree lighting, a parade & more Pg 13-14 CANADIAN-MADE HOLIDAY GIFTS
Shop gifts for everyone on your list, all under $50 Pg 18-19
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 holiday season and beyond. We, SBA, 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 Mitchell Richmond
Graphic Designers: Katie O’Brien and Emily Murphy
Publisher: Sackville Business Association
For advertising inquiries, contact advertising@sackvillebusiness.com
Instagram: @sackvillebusiness
Facebook: /SackvilleBusiness
Bluesky: @sackvillebusiness
TikTok: @sackvillebusiness
Website: sackvillebusiness.com
Most of the photos in this magazine highlight members of our community, including the cover photo, which was taken by Jessica MacDonald during the Apartment 3 Espresso Bar and TAPestry Beer Bar Christmas Market, featuring local singer Sarah Hunt.
Photo credit: Alex MacAulay Photography
To many, Jayson Baxter is best known as the face of CTV News at 5, where for more than 20 years he co-hosted and produced alongside Maria Panopalis. But to Sackville, he’s also the boy who once pedalled through the neighbourhood, slipped away to visit the horses at Sackville Downs, and discovered a love of storytelling that would eventually shape his career.
Baxter’s story began long before the newsroom lights. His parents, Denny and Jeannie, moved to Lower Sackville from Halifax in 1972 while saving for their first home. At the time, Baxter was a toddler and his sister Carrie just a baby. Sackville quickly became the backdrop for his childhood adventures. With the growing community around him, he explored freely—biking, fishing, playing sports, and letting imagination turn boredom into fun.
“Younger readers, picture Stranger Things minus the supernatural,” says Baxter.
“It was a daily part of our lives and an amazing experience to grow up around horses. It broke our hearts when the racetrack closed in 1986.”
A defining part of his youth was Sackville Downs, the local racetrack located where Downsview Plaza stands today. His father kept a stable of racehorses there, and the track was a hub where neighbours gathered for races and events.
Lunchtimes at Acadia School, now the Sackville Public Library, often included visits to the horses and barn cats. “It was a daily part of our lives and an amazing experience to grow up around horses. It broke our hearts when the racetrack closed in 1986,” says Baxter.
Baxter’s interest in journalism sparked early. He devoured the Bedford-Sackville Daily News and tuned in to ATV’s Evening News and Live at Five. “Little did the 12-year-old version of me know I would grow up to host and produce that same show for the last 10 years of my broadcasting career. What an honour,” says Baxter.
“It was the first time since the Second World War that everyone on the planet was potentially affected by the same events.”
After gaining experience in Ontario and Alberta, Baxter returned to Nova Scotia in 1998 to join CTV Atlantic as a sports and news reporter. His quick wit, natural storytelling, and ease off-script made him a versatile presence, both in the newsroom
and out in the field. Over the years, he covered everything from community features to the COVID-19 pandemic, which he calls one of the most profound experiences of his career. “It was the first time since the Second World War that everyone on the planet was potentially affected by the same events. We were all navigating uncertainty together,” he says.
Before taking his next step professionally, Baxter is enjoying a quieter life at home in Sackville. He spends time with his three daughters and two grandchildren, and the hours once devoted to coaching their sports teams are now spent caring for Sammy, a rescued racehorse he shares with his father.
He also treasures the familiar connections of daily life: “To every viewer who’s offered a kind word while I’ve been buying groceries or hanging out in one of my favourite Sackville coffee shops—thank you, and I miss you too. It was a pleasure spending weeknights in your living room,” says Baxter.
If you haven’t yet made your way to Casa di Stefano, tucked away at 111 Cobequid Road, you’re missing out on one of Sackville’s newest culinary gems. From woodfired pizzas to house-made pastas and indulgent desserts, it’s a place where food is just the beginning; the real magic is in the people behind it.
Casa di Stefano is the vision of four equal owners, Michal Balas, Nissim Balas, Rita Harel and Maayan Harel—two food-loving families joined by an oven, ‘Stefano,’ a Neapolitan-style oven imported from Naples, Italy, which sits at the heart of the restaurant. Each owner brings a unique ingredient to the recipe: a pastry chef’s finesse with three decades of experience, a love for hospitality, operational expertise, and a backyard oven where it all began.
All four owners are foodies with different backgrounds, but they share the same dream—building something a bit different. Maayan says, “Our inspiration came from several directions. The wood-fire cuisine began years ago in our backyard oven, while the desserts reflect Michal’s many years as a pastry chef.”
”At the heart of it, we are strong believers in family and community, and we want our customers to feel at home—our home, our Casa.”
“Nissim and Michal’s catering experience inspired a unique selection of salads and appetizers, and Michal’s love for house-made pastas shaped that part of our menu. Rita’s passion for hospitality and customer service drives our front-of-house experience and social media presence. At the heart of it, we are strong believers in family and community, and we want our customers to feel at home—our home, our Casa.”
“While other areas are saturated with dine-in restaurants, Sackville seemed like a better opportunity,”
Sackville was a natural choice for their restaurant. With its evolving neighbourhoods and community feel, it offered the perfect stage for something fresh. “While other areas are saturated with dine-in restaurants, Sackville seemed like a better opportunity,” says Maayan.
Its central location makes the spot easily accessible from surrounding areas.
The menu reflects the team’s creativity and high standards, though it represents just a fraction of the ideas they’ve dreamed up. The crowd favourite? “The Crowd Pleaser” pizza, a fluffy-crusted creation layered with San Marzano tomato sauce, cupping pepperoni, and Parmigiano Reggiano. Scratch-made pastas and desserts, particularly the lasagna, are also local favourites.
To guests who have already visited, the Casa di Stefano team shares heartfelt gratitude: “We see and hear every one of you. Thank you for your support, your patience, and your kindness.”
For those who haven’t yet stopped by, the team promises an experience that’s both welcoming and affordable: “Whether it’s a cozy date night by the oven, celebrating a special occasion, a family Sunday lunch, or a fun girls’ night out— we hope to become part of your routine,” says Maayan.
Every winter, Acadia Park—a cherished green space in the heart of Sackville at 650 Sackville Drive—is transformed into a winter wonderland. Over 25,000 white lights illuminate the park, creating a magical display made possible by Sackville Business Association and the support of local businesses.
Light Up the Park has become a beloved holiday tradition, drawing families, friends, and visitors to stroll among the glowing trees or capture a perfect seasonal photo. The lights are switched on for the annual Sackville Christmas Tree
Lighting, which takes place this year on Saturday, November 29, 2025, from 6 to 7 p.m. From that evening on, the park remains illuminated each night after sunset through December 31.
More than 20 trees are strung with white lights, each sponsored by a local business. Proceeds from this event support Acadia Park, which is lovingly maintained and operated by volunteers. Since its launch in 2018, Light Up the Park has raised over $16,000 to help support Acadia Park as a gathering place for the community.
More than just a display, Light Up the Park is a seasonal tradition that brings neighbours and visitors together, creating memories and allowing everyone to enjoy the warm, nostalgic glow of the holiday lights.
For more information and event updates, visit www.sackvillebusiness.com/lightup-the-park
Step into a winter wonderland in Sackville, with over 25,000 twinkling white lights as your backdrop.
This display is illuminated nightly from 5 to 10 p.m. between November 29 and December 31, 2025.
Hall-y Jolly Christmas Market
November 8 & 9
10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Sackville Legion (45 Sackville Cross Road), Kinsmen Community Centre (71 First Lake Drive), Sackville Lions Club (101 Old Beaver Bank Road)
Cars R Us Toy Drive
November 12–December 5 183 Sackville Drive
Outdoor Holiday Evening Market
November 15
4–8 p.m.
Fultz House Museum 33 Sackville Drive
18th Annual Sackville
Christmas Tree Lighting
November 29
6–7 p.m.
Acadia Park 650 Sackville Drive
Light Up the Park
November 29–December 31
5–10 p.m.
Acadia Park 650 Sackville Drive
Annual Beaver Bank Lions Parade of Lights
November 30
6 p.m.
224 Beaver Bank Road to 1583 Beaver Bank Road
Annual Apartment 3 and TAPestry Beer Christmas Market
Light Up the Park
November 29–December 31
5–10 p.m.
Acadia Park
650 Sackville Drive
Building Futures Holiday Market
December 6
10 a.m.–2 p.m.
61 Glendale Avenue
East Coast Craft Show
Christmas Market
December 6
11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Royal Canadian Legion
45 Sackville Cross Road
Annual Apartment 3 and TAPestry Beer Christmas Market
December 6 | 5–9 p.m. & December 7 | 12–5 p.m.
833 Sackville Drive
Paint Nite: Christmas in the City
December 16
4 p.m.
Freeman’s Little New York 552 Sackville Drive
For full details and event updates, visit: www.sackvillebusiness.com/holidays
Annual Apartment 3 and TAPestry Beer Christmas Market
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4 Seasons Florist 546 Sackville Drive | 902-865-9247
Alyssa’s Formals
622 Sackville Drive | 902-864-8520
Aqua Master
471 Sackville Drive | 902-252-3191
Atlantic Superstore
745 Sackville Drive | 902-864-2299
Beacon House Thrift Store
470 Cobequid Road | 902-864-3025
Bell Aliant
745 Sackville Drive | 902-864-0434
Blossom Shops
668 Sackville Drive | 902-865-9040
Canadian Tire
796 Sackville Drive | 902-864-3152
Cape & Cowl Comics & Collectibles
622 Sackville Drive | 902-252-3452
Chasin’ Tides Tackle Shop
622 Sackville Drive | 902-865-0290
Cleve’s Source for Sports
730 Sackville Drive | 902-865-7183
Darlene’s Draperies Ltd.
297 Sackville Drive | 902-865-1759
Diamond World Jewelry 602 Sackville Drive | 902-864-2143
Dollarama
720 Sackville Drive | 902-865-6024
EurekaTec 73 Sackville Drive | 902-812-0805
FluffyCat Books 546 Sackville Drive | 902-809-2993
GBS Technologies - TELUS 720 Sackville Drive | 902-835-2118
Giant Tiger 720 Sackville Drive | 902-864-8608
Great Roads Brewing 111 Cobequid Road | 902-865-5379
Hemp Heaven 560 Sackville Drive | 902-252-8653
Incredible Thrift 592 Sackville Drive | 902-449-6181
Kent Building Supplies
888 Sackville Drive | 902-864-2000
Lawtons Drugs 665 Sackville Drive | 902-865-9393
Levy Pools
475 Sackville Drive | 902-865-4373
Living Reef Aquarium 622 Sackville Drive | 902-869-2782
Middle Sackville Guardian Pharmacy 1624 Sackville Drive | 902-252-0779
NedTek Computer Solutions Inc.
479 Sackville Drive | 902-865-4434
Noble Grape 546 Sackville Drive | 902-865-2739
Nothin’ Fancy Furniture Warehouse 328 Sackville Drive | 902-865-7006
NSLC
745 Sackville Drive | 902-865-2109
NSLC 752 Sackville Drive | 902-864-3883
Payzant Home Hardware 250 Sackville Drive | 902-864-0000
Pet Valu
752 Sackville Drive | 902-869-9050
Pleasures N’ Treasures
295 Sackville Drive | 902-864-4159
Popeye’s Supplements
720 Sackville Drive | 902-252-4488
Rogers Wireless
752 Sackville Drive | 902-865-3388
Shoppers Drug Mart 766 Sackville Drive | 902-864-4631
Sobeys 752 Sackville Drive | 902-865-5057
Sportwheels Sports Excellence 209 Sackville Drive | 902-865-9033
Stoneman’s Jewellery Inc. 668 Sackville Drive | 902-864-7617
The Ultimate Party & Rental Store 614 Sackville Drive | 902-869-1313
Urban Rustic DIY Studio 534 Sackville Drive | 902-499-5049
Wheaton’s 27 Walker Avenue | 902-865-9933
Looking for the perfect holiday gift without breaking the bank? We’ve rounded up a selection of Canadian-made and local finds under $50 that are thoughtful and affordable. Whether you’re shopping for family, friends, or that hard-to-buy-for person on your list, these gifts celebrate the spirit of the season while supporting businesses close to home.
at Heart
For the Gift of Giving A pair of hand-knitted mittens purchased for someone in need
For Your Four-Legged Friend
Charmy Pet Blue Mussel Air-Dried
Dog & Cat Treats 3.5 oz
Pet Valu
752 Sackville Drive
$16.99
For the Wellness Enthusiast
Pro H2O Electrolyte Drink Mix (Arctic Breeze)
For the Hockey Fan
Zippy’s Hockey Wax
Cleve’s Source for Sports 730 Sackville Drive
$5.99
For the Craft Beer Lover Blueberry Wheat Ale
Great Roads Brewing 111 Cobequid Road
$4.67
A portion of the proceeds from this item are donated to a charity.
Note: Prices shown are exclusive of taxes and deposits and may be subject to change.
For almost 40 years, Beacon House has been a steady source of support for families and individuals across Sackville, Bedford, Fall River, and Hammonds Plains. Founded in 1986 as the Beacon House Interfaith Society, the organization began with a simple but powerful goal: to help neighbours in need access food, clothing, and basic necessities. Over time, its work has grown to include three core programs—the Food Bank and Retail Store located at 470 Cobequid Road, and a shelter on Metropolitan Avenue, which the Society began operating two years ago—ensuring that the community has access not only to essentials, but also to safe shelter when it is needed most.
A key part of Beacon House’s operation, the Retail Store is more than a place to shop—it’s a hub of community connection. Its shelves are stocked with donated clothing, household
items, books, and small treasures, all offered at affordable prices. Families rely on the store not just for everyday necessities, but also as a way to stretch their budgets while maintaining dignity during difficult times. The store generates nearly $300,000 each year to support Beacon House programs, thanks largely to volunteers who sort donations, stock shelves, and welcome every customer with care.
Make a financial donation or learn more about volunteering by visiting www.beaconhousens.org
You can easily contribute online and explore opportunities to get involved and make a difference in the community.
“It’s truly amazing what our volunteers make possible,” says Jim Gunn, newly elected Chairperson for Beacon House. “The store is almost entirely volunteer-run, and every dollar raised goes right back into helping our neighbours. I continue to marvel at the level of support from many devoted volunteers and the generous financial and in-kind donations that enable Beacon House to fulfill its mission.”
Families registered with the Food Bank receive vouchers to shop at the Retail Store, giving them the flexibility to choose the items they need most. The store also hosts several “Bag Days” each month, when shoppers can fill a large bag for $20 or a small one for $14—making everyday essentials more accessible. One of Beacon House’s most beloved programs is the Christmas Shoppe, open yearround, where families can purchase donated toys, decorations, and holiday items at a fraction of the price of new items.
Over 100 dedicated volunteers are the heartbeat of Beacon House. From sorting donations and stocking shelves to preparing food hampers and offering a listening ear, they ensure the organization can meet growing community
needs. Gunn says, “Our greatest challenge this year, generally, is to meet the increasing number of people and families who must depend on Beacon House to survive.”
Community generosity is equally vital. Donations, both financial and in-kind, keep programs running and allow Beacon House to respond to the diverse needs of the community. Financial contributions, in particular, help fund essential programs and provide holiday meals for families.
For Gunn, the impact of Beacon House goes far beyond food, clothing, or shelter. “Every act of kindness matters,” he says. “Together, we can ensure Beacon House continues to empower lives, support families, and strengthen our community.”
The start of a new year is the perfect excuse to refresh your home. Small changes can make a big difference. Here are five simple ways to spruce up your space.
Declutter, Clean, and Reorganize
Sort through closets, cabinets, and drawers—donate what you don’t need, store seasonal items, and clean surfaces. Don’t forget to launder or dry clean clothes, drapes, and linens for a fresh start. 1
Where to Donate:
• Beacon House Thrift Store 470 Cobequid Road
• Incredible Thrift (Clothing & Small Items Only) 592 Sackville Drive
Where to Dry Clean & Launder:
• Downsview Laundromat 619 Sackville Drive
• Nadia’s Tailor Shop & Dry Cleaning 619 Sackville Drive
Where to Find Storage:
• Metro Self Storage 25 Walker Avenue
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Update Soft Furnishings
Swap cushions, curtains, or rugs to refresh a room. Even small changes like new pillow covers or a cozy throw can make a big difference.
Where to Shop Local:
• Atlantic Superstore
745 Sackville Drive
• Canadian Tire
796 Sackville Drive
• Darlene’s Draperies Ltd.
297 Sackville Drive
• easyhome
799 Sackville Drive
• Kent Building Supplies
888 Sackville Drive
• Lawtons Drugs
665 Sackville Drive
• Nothin’ Fancy Furniture Warehouse
328 Sackville Drive
• Payzant Home Hardware
250 Sackville Drive
• Shoppers Drug Mart
766 Sackville Drive
• Wheaton’s 27 Walker Avenue
3
Add Greenery
Plants brighten any space, improve air quality, and boost mood. Low-maintenance options like snake plants, pothos, or succulents are perfect for beginners.
Where to Shop Local:
• 4 Seasons Florist
546 Sackville Drive
• Atlantic Superstore
745 Sackville Drive
• Blossom Shops
668 Sackville Drive
• Sobeys
752 Sackville Drive
Refresh Walls and Surfaces
A fresh coat of paint, new wallpaper, or updated wall art can transform a room. Temporary peel-andstick options work well if you want a quick change.
Where to Shop Local:
• Benjamin Moore 534 Sackville Drive
• Canadian Tire
796 Sackville Drive
• Kent Building Supplies
888 Sackville Drive
• Payzant Home Hardware
250 Sackville Drive
• Sherwin-Williams 405 Sackville Drive
ProTip:
Need some help? Contact:
• Integrum Painting 902-991-0674
5
Focus on Kitchens and Bathrooms
These high-use areas make a big impact with small updates. Swap out hardware, refresh grout, replace faucets, or update lighting to instantly elevate your space.
ProTip:
Need some help? Contact:
• Coastwide Construction 902-580-3634
• England Plumbing 902-223-6650
• Jason Roy Home Renovations 902-497-5786
In honour of Small Business Month, more than 130 entrepreneurs and community leaders attended the 2025 Sackville Business Gala & Awards ceremony held at Sackawa Canoe Club on October 1. The evening, hosted by Sackville Business Association, celebrated the creativity, resilience, and impact of local businesses.
Rashmi Prakash, CEO and founder of the award-winning fibertech company Aruna Revolution, delivered the keynote address, sharing her journey of building a business that blends purpose with profit. From scaling operations to national recognition on CBC’s Dragons’ Den—the popular TV show where entrepreneurs pitch business ideas to a panel of investors—Prakash highlighted how innovation and social impact can thrive together.
The evening was emceed by Sackville’s own Jayson Baxter, former host and producer of CTV News at 5, who guided the event and highlighted the achievements of the businesses that make Sackville thrive.
The night concluded with the highly anticipated 2025 Sackville Business Awards. These awards recognize the creativity, leadership, and impact of the community’s standout businesses and business leaders. Mayor Andy Fillmore presented the five awards, which were chosen from over 600 nominations submitted by the community throughout September.
The award winners are featured on the next page, along with their heartfelt messages, sharing excitement, gratitude, and appreciation for the community who has and continues to support them.
The 2025 Sackville Business Awards honoured local businesses and leaders for their creativity, leadership, and dedication. Chosen from over 600 community nominations, these winners have made a lasting impact. Read more about them below, along with their heartfelt messages of thanks.
Sportwheels Sports Excellence
209 Sackville Drive
“This is a huge honour for our entire team. Sportwheels has been part of this community for over 78 years, and winning Business of the Year is really a recognition of our staff, customers, and community who have supported us generation after generation. For us, it’s also a reminder of why we do what we do—helping families stay active, grow their game, and build a stronger community. A big thank you to everyone who voted for us! Every vote is encouragement for us to keep raising the bar and giving back.”
—Jeff Mayhew & Kevin Marriott, co-owners of Sportwheels Sports Excellence
FunZone Indoor Playground
745 Sackville Drive
“This award honestly means so much to us. For our team, it’s never been just about running a playground—it’s about creating a place where families feel welcome, kids feel special, and parents know they’re supported. Winning this award tells us that people can feel the love and care we put into every single day, and that’s the best reward we could ever ask for.
This award belongs to our whole community, and we promise to keep giving our very best every single day.”
—Charbel and Christina Nassim, co-owners of FunZone Indoor Playground
The Pink Piano Café & Lounge 585 Sackville Drive
“Being recognized for Community Impact is an incredible honour and really validates the heart behind The Pink Piano. From day one, my goal was to create more than just a place to get coffee. I wanted to build a community hub where everyone can feel welcomed, supported, and connected, with a focus on belonging and kindness. At The Pink Piano, we put a lot of heart into making our space feel inclusive and inviting so everyone feels they belong here. This award is as much yours as it is ours, and we are so grateful to be part of such a caring and connected community.
—Jennifer Perry, owner of The Pink Piano Café & Lounge
Gary Shea, Owner/President Cars R Us, 183 Sackville Drive
“Personally, it is an honour to be nominated for this award by the people of the community. Professionally, it is a privilege to receive this award and be recognized for my work ethic and commitment to supporting the community over the past 38 years. I want to thank you for your support throughout the years and for continuing to buy local. With the strength of this community, we’ve been able to support causes such as Freedom Kitchen and continue to organize one of the largest Toy Drives year after year. Thank you.”
—Gary
Shea, owner/president of Cars R Us
Joël Chiasson, Operations Manager Freeman’s Little New York, 552 Sackville Drive
“I was truly overwhelmed to receive this award, and my first thought was to acknowledge my incredible team. This recognition means the world, but it belongs as much to our amazing staff as it does to me. One moment that really stood out was driving down Sackville Drive and seeing a young man hand a homeless person $5. Inspired, I paid it forward with some gift cards for free pizzas, and seeing his joy reminded me of what Freeman’s is really about. From the outside, it may look like we just serve pizza, but we do so much more—we’re part of the community.”
—Joël Chiasson, operations manager of Freeman’s Little New York
