A NEW YEAR, A NEW VISION FOR TOURISM Jenn Manuel
The start of a new year often inspires reflection and change—growth in some areas, restraint in others, or a renewed focus on improvement and fresh ideas. At FoodArtNature (FAN), we see it as an opportunity to think differently about tourism. It’s a chance to continue spreading the word about our work and reimagine how visitors experience the Annapolis Valley while celebrating and protecting our communities. Tourism can—and should—be a force for good. Over the past year, we’ve seen what’s possible when local communities take centre stage. By collaborating with farmers, artisans, and nature stewards, we’ve created experiences that share their stories, honour their work, and reflect their deep connection to the land. This isn’t tourism for tourism’s sake—it’s about building meaningful relationships that benefit
both visitors and hosts. True sustainability begins when we prioritize the needs of year-round residents, asking: What does this community need to thrive? before considering what visitors might want to see. It’s about ensuring tourism regenerates rather than depletes, fosters connection instead of extraction, and leaves both the land and its people stronger. In 2025, look forward to brand-new experiences on the FAN calendar, along with updates here in The Grapevine. Let’s embrace this vision together, welcoming visitors in ways that are authentic, respectful, and enduring. Learn more at foodartnature.ca and subscribe to our e-newsletter, the FAN Club!
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Photos contributed by Jenn Manuel
CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF INCLUSIVE ARTS Kathleen Purdy, Kimberly Smith
way for children to engage socially and explore new ways of learning. This effort led to the formation of the Alexander Society for Special Needs, which later became the Alexander Society for Inclusive Arts. Over 15 years, it became clear the program was meeting a significant community need. Through the arts, people of all ages and abilities could learn and grow together. The Creative Arts programs rely on volunteers to provide one-on-one support, enabling participants with challenges to fully engage. Many volunteers have gone on to careers as teachers, support workers, or speech-language pathologists. One volunteer shared:
Gathering in circles has long been a vital part of community development, an ancient tradition that fosters connection and shared humanity. Creative arts programs are an effective way to help communities embrace inclusion, valuing people of all abilities. Twenty-five years ago, a group of families
with young children with special needs began meeting monthly to discuss their children’s present and future. At the top of their priorities were community inclusion and education. From these discussions, some members were inspired to create a Creative Arts program, a
THE POWER OF SETTING GOALS Grapevine Publishing
As a new year begins, many people start thinking about what they want to achieve. Whether it’s doing better in school, learning a new skill, or becoming more active, setting goals can help turn dreams into reality. Goals are like a map—they guide us toward where we want to go and help us stay focused along the way.
Instead of saying, “I want to be better at math,” set a clear goal like, “I will practice math for 20 minutes every day.” 2. Make Them Measurable A measurable goal helps you track your progress. For example, if your goal is to read more, decide how many books you want to read in a month.
Why Are Goals Important? 1. Clarity and Focus When you set a goal, you know exactly what you want to achieve. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by everything you could do, having a goal helps you focus on what matters most. For example, if you want to save money, setting a goal to save $10 each week makes it easier to see how to start.
3. Set Deadlines Deadlines create urgency and keep you accountable. Break big goals into smaller steps with deadlines for each step.
2. Motivation Goals give you something to look forward to. They keep you excited and determined, especially when challenges come up. Each small step you take toward your goal builds confidence and keeps you going.
5. Write Them Down Putting your goals on paper makes them feel more real. You can review them regularly to remind yourself of what you’re working toward.
3. Improved Time Management When you set a goal, you learn to plan your time better. You might have to say no to distractions and prioritize tasks that move you closer to your goal. This is a valuable skill that helps in all areas of life. 4. Personal Growth Working toward a goal often teaches you new things, whether it’s patience, problem-solving, or a new skill. Even if you don’t reach your goal right away, the journey itself helps you grow and learn. How to Set Effective Goals 1. Be Specific
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4. Stay Realistic Dream big, but also make sure your goals are achievable. Start with smaller goals and build up as you gain confidence.
Celebrate Your Success Don’t forget to celebrate when you reach a goal! Whether it’s finishing a project, winning a game, or learning a new skill, recognizing your hard work feels amazing and inspires you to keep going. Setting goals isn’t just for adults—it’s something everyone can benefit from. So, take some time to think about what you want to achieve this year. Write it down, make a plan, and start working toward it. Who knows? By the end of the year, you might surprise yourself with how much you’ve accomplished!
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”I learned not only about people with special needs but also about myself. I discovered new ways to communicate and connect.” These connections extend beyond the program, enriching the broader community when participants and volunteers encounter each other at events, on the street, or at gatherings.
is seen and valued, is a powerful model for inclusion. It creates safer, healthier communities where everyone is recognized as a valued member. Now, governments are catching up, recognizing the importance of building community capacity. The Alexander Society for Inclusive Arts remains at the forefront, offering programs that foster integration through the arts. Throughout 2025, follow The Grapevine as we explore the Alexander Society’s programs and their impact on inclusive community building. Visit the society’s website to learn more and see these initiatives in action: [www.alexandersociety.org](http://www.alexandersociety. org). Together, we can create stronger, more inclusive communities—one circle at a time.
❧ Photos contributed by Kimberly Smith
The group dynamic of a circle, where everyone
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