ADEDA News

Local Focus
Our first stop this week is right here in the hallowed, if albeit abbreviated, halls of ADEDA HQ.

There’s a new seasonal member of our team and I’d like to take the chance to welcome him. He’s a talented, inquisitive and energetic summer student, and he’s going to be working especially with businesses to raise the profile of the “buy local” movement, as it applies to the broader goods and services sector of our region. Welcome to Annapolis Digby Brandon Greer!

Brandon’s role in the “buy local” development area appears to be increasingly timely and significant. Just ask Tim Halliday, who operates Driftwood Greenhouse in Gulliver’s Cove. His Digby Neck greenhouse is expanding its facilities and capacity for producing English cucumbers to meet the growing “buy local” demand. “This is the first major expansion for our business since 2004 and the new facility will allow us to double our production,” he says.

And if you’re thinking that developing a personal “buy local” strategy might be too onerous, or that your participation just won’t make a difference, well, think again. The inventive members of the Paradise Women’s Institute’s reported that their April Meeting was all about buying local, a thoughtful session getting caught up on where our food comes from, what the real ‘cost’ of food is and sharing what they were all doing to sustain local industry. They came up with a novel concept that we can all consider to begin our journey down the path to better upporting our community producers.

Come to think of it, maybe you should start right in this weekend with your newly energized “buy local” resolve by remembering to visit the area’s farm markets. This is the time of year when they are relocating and reopening all across Annapolis Digby. For example, the Bridgetown market begins on Tuesday, May 17th from 2-6pm beside Endless Shores Books. The fabled Annapolis Royal Farmers and Traders Market returns to its seasonal location at the Town Centre on St George Street this Saturday from its winter home at the Historic Gardens (yes, Virginia, it’s open year round as Annapolis Royal Mayor Phil Roberts so promptly and properly reminded me after a posting of a couple of weeks ago), and on Sunday the Bear River Farmers’ and Artists Market re-opens on the waterfront from 1-4 PM. They’re all around us – check your local community web sites for more information.

And, by the way, continuing on the theme of local eco-innovation, congratulations to the team from Digby Regional High School for their stellar Silver performance at the recent provincial Envirothon competition.

Tidal Teamwork Touted
One of the great memories from youthful Sunday evenings spent staring at the black and white flickering of the “Ed Sullivan Show” was the occasional appearance of one James Francis “Jimmy” Durante. I just loved the guy. And while many are familiar with his signature sign off of “Good Night Mrs. Calabash, wherever you are”; I chortled more at his frequent observation that “Everybody wants ta get inta the act.” OK, maybe I wasn’t a normal kid. Nonetheless, and in a very positive way, I was reminded of that line as things continued to get more and more active in the area of tidal energy development in the Bay of Fundy. At a recent session in Digby hosted by ADEDA, developers of a tidal power project in Maine were urging consideration of a regional approach with those developers creating similar small scale projects in this area. It’s a good point and there definitely was continued activity to report on that topic as ongoing small scale tidal energy testing plans were being made for the areas of Long and Brier Islands on Digby Neck.

Celebratory Summer Planned
I’m as guilty as anyone about sometimes taking for granted the historic sites that dot Annapolis Digby, figuring I’ve already seen what’s to be seen. That of course would be a mistake any time, because there’s always something new on display. And it’s especially true this year. In 2011, Parks Canada is celebrating its 100th birthday as the world’s first national parks service and yesterday, May 15, Parks Canada’s Fort Anne and Port-Royal National historic sites opened for a particularly exciting season with new exhibits, cultural programming, and with a long list of celebratory birthday events being planned.

Communicating Change
Most writers, me included, take a deliberately solitary approach to our craft, not wanting to share our editorial space. But in this case there’s an exceptional inclusion that’s important for all of us. We’re making changes to our communications strategies here at ADEDA, and our interim Managing Director Dan Harvey wanted to use the newsletter, among other venues, to directly outline what’s happening in this area. Here’s Dan’s message:

“As any not-for-profit group can attest, making the call on judicious use of limited financial resources can be an enormous challenge.
It’s no different here at ADEDA- in the course of preparing our work plan for this year, we carefully scrutinized how we are applying the funding we are given: what items are essential, what are discretionary, costs and benefits, and so on. All of these questions were asked objectively, in the light of the deliverables in our current Business Plan.

Our data on your usage of our weekly newsletter indicates your needs and expectations with respect this communication vehicle are less. One of the things Peter and I concluded when we analyzed the data that there were a lot more Daily Newsletters, Blogs, and Social Media sites, in addition to our strong weekly media coverage, than when the newsletter started 3 years ago.

Feedback from the public has been that they want and need to hear from their Regional Development Authority regularly, but that face-to-face contact is preferred. We agree with that whole-heartedly- you can’t beat the personal touch! To that end, we’ve built into our plan a series of formal connections with town/municipal councils, boards of trade and other business organizations, as well as economic sector groups throughout the year. We see that as the best way to update you on progress, and receive public feedback.

Having said that, we recognize not everyone will be able to access these meetings. So two things will take place: 1. Our Website will be undergoing a re-vamp: we will present more information, in line with our Business Plan themes. 2. The newsletter will remain, but in a monthly format.

The content will remain Local: successful and inspiring people and businesses from our community; major announcements and trends in economic development; profiles of leaders in our region; promotion of important upcoming events taking place in our region; information on new programs that business owners can access by working with our agency or government; profiles on ADEDA board members, and much more
In short, we want the Monthly newsletter to be interesting, informative, and useful to you. We want to share the good news that takes place, and for our readers to feel up-to-date on what your economic development agency is doing on your behalf.

Our weekly newsletters will continue until May 30th, with the next one after that being June 27th, the start of the monthly schedule.

Kind Regards,
Dan Harvey
(902) 638-4009
dharvey@annapolisdigby.com

Till next week;

Peter

Peter MacLellan
Annapolis Digby EDA
86 Atlantic Avenue
PO Box 271
Cornwallis, Nova Scotia
Canada B0S 1H0

Tel: (902) 638-3490
Fax: (902) 638-8106
E: communications@annapolisdigby.com

ADEDA News

Outward Looking
Most often in these weekly newsletters the focus is on what’s happening in and around our area. That’s not because we’re by nature introspective – it’s just that we’ve got lots going on here. But we’re also proud of what we can share with the wider world and the close relationships we have with the global community. One way this gets done is through trade shows and international expositions. It’s a valuable marketing strategy, and one in which ADEDA has specifically participated as appropriate. They build understanding, foster relationships – and most important – they bring in business.

And speaking of international relationships and ties shared by many of our local communities, Annapolis Royal just completed a special gift in honour of the 300th anniversary of its sister city – Annapolis, Maryland. A heritage tapestry, stitched by Moira MacDonald of Lawrencetown, will now hang in the Maryland State legislature.

Energetic Ideas
Our area is seeking to secure an intra-provincial tie as well these days. Digby Mayor Ben Cleveland is hoping the provincial government will actively support the Digby area’s new initiative to attract tidal energy companies to utilize its strategically located port facilities. The Town and Municipality are “spending our own money to show we are the port of choice when industry looks for a repair and maintenance base”, the Mayor said, adding, “We’re waiting for the province to take a stand because this will ramp up quickly”.

While tidal forces and wind power remain the cutting edge renewable energy initiatives here in Annapolis Digby these days, there’s another biofuel option being pondered these days that also holds potential for this region. It’s algae. Yes, what many of us dismiss as pond scum, is as common around these parts as, well, seaweed. And according to a keynote speaker at the recent Renewable Energy Conference it can be an ideal renewable energy resource since it consumes CO2 and can be grown in freshwater or salt water.

Publishing in Paradise
Books are big here. We have a long literary legacy of internationally renowned authors, and we have been delighted to regularly report the continuing accomplishments of our local writers, illustrators and publishers. So the fact that the community of Paradise will host a repeat of last year’s popular “Word in the Hall” event should come as no surprise. The daylong event for publishers, writers, printers, booksellers and readers will offer displays, question and answer sessions, book signings and networking opportunities for the bookish bunch – in whose company, I hasten to add, I proudly include myself.

Plotting the Tourist Map
Tourism is a key component of the ADEDA strategic plan. And, what with our recent national and international award winning public gardens, country inns, eco-adventure opportunities, and historic sites positioning Annapolis Digby as a signature travel destination, thoughtful planning is more than smart – it’s vital. So it’s definitely important news when we learn that the Strategic Tourism plan for Southwest Nova Scotia is set to be released to industry stakeholders at the upcoming Tourism Summit scheduled for May 17 at the Digby Pines Golf Resort and Spa. The Plan was commissioned by Destination Southwest Nova Scotia (DSWNS) and will be part of its annual general meeting.

Sweet Tweets
If by now, like me you've determined that social networks and online communities are an important – and inevitable - component in your overall marketing strategy, then consider taking in the Social Media marketing workshop at the Annapolis Basin Conference Centre (ABCC) this week. Don’t know if there’s any space left but if you’re interested you’d be wise to check. Social media takes creativity, planning and consistent monitoring. Your online presence and social media are quickly becoming your most valuable marketing tools - but only if they’re done right.adeda

Just wondering, but maybe - just maybe – my invitation to the royal wedding was “tweeted” to me, and that’s how I missed it. There’s got to be a reason. I do have a morning suit after all, and the salad bowl gift set was all wrapped.

Oh well, I’ve always liked Harry better anyway.

Contribute Your Thoughts

CALL FOR ECONOMIC SECTOR REPRESENTATIVES
Board of Directors, Annapolis Digby Economic Development Agency

The newly-formed Board of Directors of the Annapolis Digby Economic Development Agency is seeking qualified representatives from the local community to serve on its Board of Directors in a voting capacity. We are looking for 6 citizen volunteers who would advise the Board and Agency Staff on the following sectors:


FORESTRY
FISHERIES
AGRICULTURE
TOURISM
RETAIL & SERVICES
EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES

If you are eager to contribute to economic development in our region as part of a forward-thinking Board of Directors, we’d love to hear from you. You are invited to attend Industry Focus Group sessions in which you can share your views on your sector(s) of interest:


WEDNESDAY, April 13th - 6pm - EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES
TUESDAY, April 19th - 6pm -TOURISM
WEDNESDAY, April 20th - 6pm - AGRICULTURE
TUESDAY, April 26th - 6pm - FISHERIES
WEDNESDAY, April 27th - 6pm - FORESTRY
TUESDAY, May 3rd - 6pm - RETAIL & SERVICES

MEETING LOCATION: ADEDA Board Room, 86 Atlantic Avenue, Cornwallis

Everyone is welcome to attend these sessions. Those that so choose may submit their qualifications to the Board, through Dan Harvey, Acting Managing Director. If you have any questions, or wish to RSVP, please call Dan Harvey at 902.526.4479 or email at dharvey@annapolisdigby.com. Thank You!

Annapolis Digby EDA
86 Atlantic Avenue
PO Box 271
Cornwallis, Nova Scotia
Canada B0S 1H0

Tel: (902) 638-3490
Fax: (902) 638-8106
E: msmith@annapolisdigby.com

We invite you to visit us anytime at www.annapolisdigby.com.

ADEDA News

Transportation Tidings
Transportation by land, sea and air were all in the news the past week. This is, of course, all good stuff since our transportation infrastructure is a key component of our economic development strategies. There was more news about planned improvements for service at the Digby Annapolis Regional Airport. ADEDA has been working with the Municipality of the District of Digby and its airport working committee on this project with promising results. Digby Municipality Warden Linda Gregory said that plans to supply jet fuel in addition to aviation gas for aircraft, and the installation of an automated weather observation service, were expected to make the airport - Nova Scotia’s highest by the way - an even busier destination.

Meanwhile, consideration was also being given to an expanded bus service into downtown Digby. Discussions were beginning with Kings Transit to establish a series of stops in the downtown area, and maybe even extend the service to the interprovincial ferry terminal. Digby Mayor Ben Cleveland said that he had long wanted to see a route through the downtown.

And speaking of the interprovincial ferry service (gosh how I love the chance for a good editorial segue), the Saint John Telegraph Journal carried a story about a Florida entrepreneur, who summers in Maine, and his proposal to establish a year-round ferry service between Maine and New Brunswick. He also claims that a regular Bay of Fundy service between Eastport, Maine and Digby could make good sense as well.

Another Tidal Energy Announcement
Staying on the Bay of Fundy (another sneaky segue) the major business news last week in our province was the announcement that Nova Scotia's bid to become a North American leader in the development, supply and support of tidal energy projects took another step forward. It focused on the declaration that an international consortium will test one of the world's largest tidal turbines in the Bay's aggressive marine environment.

Atlantis Resources Corporation, a world-leading tidal technology and project development company, was one of five respondents to a request for proposal issued by the province last fall for a fourth berth-holder to participate in its Fundy Ocean Research Center for Energy (FORCE) project. Nova Scotia’s Premier Darrell Dexter said" We are working to harness some of the most powerful tides in the world to produce safe, clean, renewable energy for Nova Scotia and through that process develop the expertise, experience and infrastructure to be a resource for tidal energy projects across North America." The company will work in partnership with Lockheed Martin and Irving Shipbuilding.

The Business Briefcase
It’s undeniably tough being a university student these days, with ever rising tuition fees and the scramble to find job related learning opportunities. That’s why it was heartening to note that the provincial government will be doubling the number of co-op education positions it currently funds. The new program is called the strategic co-operative education incentive (It’s a semantic mouthful admittedly – but who cares as long as it’s helping) and combines two existing, separate programs for both the non-profit and private sectors. If your organization is inclined to take on a student for a term placement there’s no better time than now, especially for community organizations and small businesses.

And since the case can be made for small businesses as the real backbone of the economy in our area, there’s a great chance for that business constituency to develop essential skills to maximize the performance efficiency and profitability of their operations. An innovative program is being offered by Saint Mary’s University’s Business Development Centre and workshops begin this month.

Well Deserved Recognition
When friends and family descend to visit with me, especially in the summer, there’s one destination that always seems to be on their agenda. It’s the iconic Flight of Fancy in Bear River, and they always return to rave about both the artisanal offerings and the service. So it came as no surprise – but welcome news nonetheless – that artist Rob Buckland-Nicks, and his enterprise, was honoured recently at the Atlantic Canada Craft Awards of Excellence for Outstanding Retailer. The 14th annual awards were presented in conjunction with the Atlantic Crafts Trade Show (ACTS).

No More “Neige” Saying
OK, I‘ve decided to seriously try and come to grips with the seeming relentlessly falling snow as I stare vacantly out my window. It’s hard for me, but I’ve been somewhat inspired by those in our community who celebrate the season and all it offers. Especially those eager fresh faces I see on television who are gathering for the next couple of weeks in our province to participate in our national Winter Games competition. And I honestly have to salute the enthusiasm of the folks in Middleton who hosted the highly successful provincial Mens’ and Womens’ Masters Curling Championships recently. Not to forget that the Canadian Senior Mens’ and Womens’ curling championships will soon be in our area as well. The Digby Area Recreation Commission and the Digby Curling Club are co-hosting the championships that will see 24 teams competing—with 11 provincial teams and one territorial team in each category, from March 19-26. Organizers are still looking for a few more volunteers. Moving from curling to cuisine (my last segue du jour), you don’t have to be part of the “hurry hard” set to find a reason to visit the Bridgetown Curling Club (333 Granville St.) this weekend, where on Saturday the 19th, cold lobster from Nautical Fisheries, potato salad and cold slaw from King’s Processing and dessert from Graves ValuFoods will be available. You can eat in at the renovated curling club or get takeout. Delivery is available from Bridgetown and area to Annapolis Royal and area. All proceeds will go towards the new geothermal ice plant. Doors open at 6pm and it’s $15 per ticket. For tickets contact Karson Lewis at 532-8537. Oh my, lobster even in winter – maybe there’s hope for me yet.




Till next week;

Peter

Peter MacLellan
Annapolis Digby EDA
86 Atlantic Avenue
PO Box 271
Cornwallis, Nova Scotia
Canada B0S 1H0

Tel: (902) 638-3490
Fax: (902) 638-8106
E: communications@annapolisdigby.com

ADEDA News

Ferry Follow Up
There was active and positive follow up to the recent announcement the federal government would make an additional three year commitment to providing investment funding for the Digby to Saint John ferry service across the Bay of Fundy.

West Nova Member of Parliament Greg Kerr meet first with area business and government leaders to further outline the decision by the federal government to extend the funding. Kerr urged the communities affected by the service to be open to new ideas and to look at all options for the future of this service as well as other investment opportunities.

Immediately after that public meeting our MP met with the Bay of Fundy Transportation Coalition to further specify the context and future implications of the announcement.

That meeting was organized by the Annapolis Digby Economic Development Agency (ADEDA) at the behest of the Coalition.

Among many topics Kerr discussed the issue of governance, stressed the need to look at different models, and to make the business case for the ferry going forward, adding that economic development was key to this.

He particularly credited the Coalition planning group for their past efforts and for being prepared to immediately start strategically thinking about how the ferry service should be sustained in the future.

Our Global Positioning As A World Leader
A recent feature story in the Saint John Telegraph Journal outlined how use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) was radically changing forest management. The article described GIS as merging “statistical analysis and data base technology into a set of tools that allow the user to interpret and understand data in a visual format”.

It immediately brought to top of mind (at least to the top of my mind) the fact that right here in Annapolis Digby we have a post secondary institution that is increasingly being recognized as a world leader in this technology.

As part of the Nova Scotia Community College’s Annapolis Valley Campus, the Centre of Geographic Sciences (COGS) provides basic and advanced training in a variety of Geomatics technologies. Check it out at www.cogs.ns.ca., particularly its One-year Advanced Diploma Program Geographic Information Systems for Business Formerly the College of Geographic Sciences located in Lawrencetown, COGS has become one of the largest technical trainers of students in the geomatics field in Canada. Training technicians and technologists in the fields of surveying, mapping, land-use planning and related computer programming has earned the campus an international reputation.

The Lawrencetown site also houses post-degree Geomatics programs in marine geomatics, remote sensing, geographic information systems (GIS), and business geographics. Two COGS programs, Applied Geomatics Research and Geomatics Programming, are delivered in Middleton.

All in all it’s a world class learning centre located in our very proud community.

Tom and the Turbines
Any day now I half expect to see one of my boyhood literary idols, Tom Swift, Jr. touring about Annapolis Digby in his ‘Triphibian Atomcar’. Always interested in ways the frontiers of science could be advanced, Tom would be happy here. He would certainly have hopped on the bus and joined the many folks who were able to tour the wind turbines at NSP’s Wind Farm Open House. The impressive facility overlooking the Bay is proudly being described by the operators as “on track and probably ahead of schedule”. Using his amazing “Diving Seacopter “ Tom could also be right in on the action taking place these days exploring the Fundy’s tidal turbine energy potential. Especially in a little over a year when French energy giant Alstom plans to install and commercialize its industrial scale Beluga 9 tidal energy turbine in the Bay. Ah yes, Tom, Frank and Joe Hardy, Nancy Drew, the Rover Boys - and even you too (two) Bobbsey Twins –where are you now? Anyway, thank you good folks at the Stratemeyer Syndicate for a wonderful childhood!

Arts Kudos
First, congrats to Deb Kuzyk and Ray Mackie of Annapolis Royal’s Lucky Rabbit Pottery who were recognized in Air Canada’s enRoute magazine in a piece entitled Five Great Canadian Artisans. Well deserved recognition for one of my favourite studios. And a heartfelt seasonal thank you to Annapolis Digby’s prolific playwright Hal Theriault for his creative adaptation and staging of Dickens' A Christmas Carol, and the popular performance by the Digby Area Theatre Society team.

A Community Salute
And we at ADEDA want to join with our entire community this week to “salute” Community Program Officer Rodena Renaud of the Annapolis RCMP for her recognition with The RCMP Foundation’s Golden Spur Award for Outstanding Commitment to Community. At the recent ceremony in Toronto the award citation stated in part, “Her focus on youth at risk, offering support and activities to set them on the right path, are but one of the areas of her focus”. A hearty “well done’”, and thank you, from all of us.

ADEDA News

Ferry Funding
There was finally some good news last week with regard to the continuance of ferry service between Digby and Saint John, New Brunswick.

The Government of Canada announced an investment funding program that would support specific ferry services in Atlantic Canada for a three year period to March 31, 2014.
Among the services to receive that support was our vital Fundy service.

The decision by the federal government was welcomed by the Bay of Fundy Transportation Coalition’s Chair Jim Thurber who said “This is a very encouraging decision that will allow us the time we need to make the business case, garner the support and pursue our ultimate goals of a longer term commitment and the new vessel this service needs”.

The Coalition is comprised of businesses and organizations representing fisheries, trucking, tourism, economic development, local government, boards of trade and environmental stewardship located in southwest Nova Scotia, and has been pushing hard for a long term commitment for the ferry service.

The Annapolis Digby Economic Development Agency (ADEDA) has been the coordinating organization for the Coalition since its inception and ADEDA Managing Director Mike Gushue expressed his appreciation for the government’s decision, saying “This shows what can be achieved when everyone in the community works diligently and responsibly towards a common purpose”. He also cited the strong support given at all levels by the area’s Member of Parliament, Greg Kerr. Commendably, Kerr moved quickly to meet with business and public representatives – and then with the Coalition – over the weekend to provide further background on the announcement and discuss the community’s “go forward” strategy. (And a “shout out” of appreciation to Bay Ferries’ Mike Adams for helping to make the facilities at the ferry terminal available and so pleasant for the meeting).

The Coalition has particularly emphasized the importance of the Digby to Saint John service to our region’s $600 million annual seafood industry.

Across the Bay the federal funding decision was also being hailed by supporters in Saint John, led by Mayor Ivan Court who has maintained that “The ferry system is part of the transportation system of Canada” and adding “it should be considered in the road system, the bridge system whatever else”.

Switched On
In his 1963 classic “Blowin’ In The Wind” iconic folkie Bob Dylan ambiguously suggests the answers to some of life’s key issues might be obviously in front of our respective noses, or as ephemeral as the wind.

Well, there’s nothing ambiguous about the effects of the breezes blowing through Nova Scotia Power’s Digby Neck wind farm. It’s now open with 10 of the 20 turbines in operation. I had a chance to tour the facility last week with NSP’s genial and very knowledgeable Project Manager, Sean Brennan, and was honestly impressed with the scope of the project – and the environmental as well as operational foresight that went into its planning. NSP also hosted a public open house at the site over the weekend to allow the community to see firsthand what’s taking place.

Riding The Renewable Energy Wave
The opening of that 30 megawatt wind farm on Digby Neck was just part of the renewable energy news that continues to focus on our area and the Fundy region in general. The provincial Energy Department has announced that it had received five responses to a call for expression of interest looking for a fourth tidal power developer in the Bay of Fundy. The bids came from companies in Canada, the United States and the UK.

The Sports Page
And, hey, we’re not all transportation analysts or renewable energy wonks around here. We like our recreational opportunities as well. And a national near miss and a national sure thing highlighted Annapolis Digby doings from the world of sports this past week. In their new book “Lawrencetown is ‘Our Hockeyville’”, veteran authors Dave and Paulette Whitman document the charming story of how a long shot community from the Annapolis Valley came “this close” to earning the title of Canada’s “Hockeyville” for this year. If there’s a wonderful holiday read to be had – it’s here – and by the way the Whitman’s will be at the Lawrencetown fire hall this weekend, December 11th, to sign copies of the book. Meanwhile at the other end of our coverage area, the folks in Digby are getting ready to host the event that didn’t get away. In a few months teams from across Canada will be “hurrying hard” to the Digby Curling Club for the national mens and womens senior championships. The event is already causing excitement within the local curling communities – and with sports buffs in general. But volunteers are still needed to help make it the success we all want. There’s more information available and a number to call if you want to be part of this national bonspiel.

Ah Shucks!
I know I’ve mentioned on numerous occasions my admiration for the hard work ethic exhibited daily by my doughty small band of coworkers here at ADEDA. However, if they have a failing perhaps it’s their intrinsic modesty in the performance of their tasks – something not shared, of course, by “moi”. That’s why I think it’s great when their work gets recognized by the local business community.

Playing with a Full House
They may have to consider replacing the winter storm doors with revolving doors at the ADEDA office on December 16th when we host two major workshops at our facilities. There’re two wonderful opportunities to develop your business communications acumen for artists and crafters at the ACTS workshop; and hone yourself in the craft of business writing at the business writing basics workshop. Hmmmm…probably should consider enrolling in that one myself.

Till next week;

Peter

Peter MacLellan
Annapolis Digby EDA
86 Atlantic Avenue
PO Box 271
Cornwallis, Nova Scotia
Canada B0S 1H0

Tel: (902) 638-3490
Fax: (902) 638-8106
E: communications@annapolisdigby.com

We invite you to visit us anytime at www.annapolisdigby

ADEDA News

From Peter at ADEDA

All In The Fundy Family
ADEDA’s Managing Director Mike Gushue was in Saint John last week to speak to a gathering of the mayors from the major municipalities in Atlantic Canada. Over 20 mayors listened as Mike made the case for the continuance and upgrading of the vital ferry service between Digby and Saint John. Not content to just get in front of this key audience, Mike spent the earlier part of the day meeting with senior port officials, talking to local and regional government leaders and doing a CBC TV interview.

And he had support from the top in the “Loyalist City”.

Saint John Mayor Ivan Court related how “on the very first day I was elected, I welcomed an early morning call, on my cell phone, from a guy named Mike Gushue who wanted to talk about the Digby to Saint John ferry. Since that time it has been a pleasure to work with Mike and to be part of the Transportation Coalition that is ensuring the future of this important service. Through this association I feel the bond between our two regions is stronger than ever and why my office is open to my good friends in Annapolis and Digby. The future is bright for both our communities as we build on the resources of the Bay of Fundy”.

Mayor Court went on record as well with the major print media to strongly call for a new funding formula for the ferry service.

Senior Surfers
Like so many people my age I often feel that I’ve free fallen into cyberspace like Alice into the rabbit hole. I’ve had some horrible experiences with computers – I don’t know what I’m doing a lot of the time, had some incredibly embarrassing encounters, and blindly try new stuff. But I’m usually awed and entranced by the outcomes. It’s sort of like reliving my first dating experiences. And like Alice I’m ultimately more fascinated than frightened by my journey. Doors open daily on whole new worlds of knowledge and communication that I would never have imagined. So I was reassured to learn that this intrepid willingness to venture into new technology in my advancing years is a trait shared by the residents of Digby’s Tideview Terrace, whose residential community will create the opportunity to be the first long term care facility in Nova Scotia to venture into the cyber world.

Resuscitation Prognosis For Wellness Centre
Active efforts are still very much underway to restore the vital community health and recreation services that had been provided by the former Lifeplex facility in Annapolis County. The popular community healthy living facility was forced to close recently as its fiscal requirements and program offerings were placed under reassessment. A positive development in the chances for its reopening was evident in the willingness of the Council of the Municipality of Digby to consider a request for major funding support. The facility is being presented with a new business plan and receiving strong endorsement from area adherents such as ABCC General Manager Marc Phillips who in his presentation underlined the importance the facility plays in the marketing strategy of that international conference and training centre.

This Week’s Tip of the Hat
Can’t sign off on this week’s updates without a congratulatory “shout out” to two folks in Annapolis Digby who received the honoured recognition of their peers. Congratulations to filmmaker, writer and photographer Tim Wilson of Bear River who received a prestigious national media award for his film “Griefwalker”, a feature documentary for the National Film Board.

And also to Jim MacAlpine, the Acting Warden for the Municipality of Digby who was elected as Vice President of the Union of Nova Scotia Municipalities at their meeting in Sydney. It continues to be obvious that, whatever the field – the leaders can be found right here.


From ADEDA

ADEDA News

Hello Kathleen,

An “Easy” Diversion
They say that the face of the person who can solve your problems is usually the one looking back at you.

Now metaphorically I know that’s supposed to refer to your image in a mirror. But it can occasionally be the face across the shop floor. At least that was the case with the invention and introduction of the aptly named “Easy Sorter”’.

As mentioned in last week’s newsletter this innovative recycling tool won this year’s Mobious Environmental award for small business from the RRFB Nova Scotia. In his remarks at a breakfast celebrating Small Business Week, recently Sissiboo Farm Supplies’ General Manager Randall Amero particularly thanked ADEDA – and our Economic Development Officer Dan Harvey – for our help and encouragement in developing this product. Now it’s attracting interest worldwide and at the same time stabilizing the employment picture at the progressive Weymouth company.

And, under the “now it can be told” category Amero in an interview with the Digby Courier credited in detail how company employee Sidney McCullough came up with the idea.

Field of Vision
Staying with the theme of lauding local folks in business who continually show acute vision and imagination, let’s talk about the new Brooklyn Street Market project just outside of Middleton. Owner Kim Connell owned a prime piece of pasture along Highway 101 for years, and never stopped thinking about how it could be put to more productive use. Well recently he opened the Market location – it’s a celebration of one entrepreneur’s vision, employs 15 people and provides an essential service for regional travellers.

Past as Prologue
Ironically enough, an innovative vision of community can just as easily come from a look backward as a look forward. Kudos to the provincial government’s Department of Tourism, Culture and Heritage for two major announcements made last week – and which impact directly on Annapolis Digby, The Department firstly announced that it intended to honour an important piece of Nova Scotia history by designating a section of Belleisle Marsh as a protected provincial site. The Marsh is located northeast of Annapolis Royal and the designated section contains significant archeological artifacts dating to the earliest French settlement in this area. And Minister Percy Paris and his departmental staff are to be congratulated as well for their announcement that Nova Scotia will be hosting the African Diaspora Heritage Trail Conference next year. Previously the conference had been hosted in venues in the Caribbean and Africa. Given the active and lasting contribution that our African-Canadian community has made to our communal heritage, the hosting of the Conference will undoubtedly involve participation from our community.

Out with Ghosties – Up with Spirits
Well I hope that you had a safe and colourful Hallowe’en last night – and were generous and gushing with praise for the young “trick or treaters” who popped by. But, hey, the season for macabre musings need not be over. I’ve been a frequent visitor to Latin America and a huge devotee of its cultural history. So I’m well aware that today begins the celebration of “dia de la muertos” or “day of the dead”. It’s a particularly big day in Mexico where you can join in events ranging to participation in a family graveyard vigil to chomping down chocolate skulls. If you want to get a literary feel for the “dia”, my recommendation this week is Malcolm Lowry’s classic Under the Volcano. You’ll get the idea of the holiday but – and trust me on this – you won’t feel like having a drink for a while. And just in case you want to get one more shiver Canadian style, have a look at the spooky happenings being reported at Digby’s historic Holdsworth House. (My wife is a direct descendant of the house’s builder and first occupant, James Addington Holdsworth – which I’ve got to admit sort of has me thinking…).

On the other hand there’s a great opportunity to enliven your inner spirits this week. I recommend you check out the Mountain and the Valley Harvest Dinner. It’s an evening to celebrate local food and literature. The menu looks superb – and writer Christy Ann Conlin will read selections from Ernest Buckler’s The Mountain and the Valley as well as from her own bestselling novel Heave. Looks like a great evening – and the just break you’ll want from Lowry.

Till next week;

Peter

Peter MacLellan
Annapolis Digby EDA

ADEDA News

Grape Expectations
One of my many guilty pleasures is a venerable BBC sitcom called “The Last of the Summer Wine”, which due to my age and appreciation of British humour, has become a weekly favourite. Alas, BBC has pulled the plug this year on the irascible West Yorkshire seniors. So no more “summer wine”.

However, here in Annapolis Digby we’re celebrating the “first of the autumn wines” (now you know where I was going with that lead). Annapolis Highlands Vineyards in Bear River East introduced its new, and much awaited, “Highland Sass” last week. It’s been a great year for wineries in Nova Scotia, and especially for Annapolis Highlands. Just last week they added three more prestigious medals to their already growing list of national awards, with a gold and two silvers bestowed at the recent 2010 Atlantic Canadian Wine Competition. We ‘re proud to add that this is yet another successful business with which ADEDA has had the privilege to work over the past year – congratulations Brendan and Karen!

And Maybe with a Good Book or Old Movie...
If, on these fall evenings, you’ve a mind to relax with a glass of wine you could combine it with a read of Granville Centre author Joyce Grant Smith’s second book “Animal Talk”. It’s a charming collection of true animal stories that some early readers have compared to the James Herriot series (here we are back on BBC and in Yorkshire again). Copies are for sale at a number of locations. If old films are your thing, check out the 51,000 feet of archival film recently posted by the Nova Scotia Archives. This fascinating footage includes some spellbinding movie coverage set here in Annapolis Digby and trust me – it’s a must visit site. And if these suggestions aren’t enough, then remember that October is Library Card Month, and the Western Counties Regional Library is offering a wide range of programs, book sales and special displays.

Power Up Your Business. Invest. Innovate. Grow.
And to end as we began – with a focus on small business learning initiatives I wanted to let you know ASAP that small business owners and entrepreneurs in Digby and Annapolis Counties are invited to a “no charge Business Breakfast” designed to celebrate Small Business Week. The first will be on Thursday, October 21st, from 7:45 – 9:00 am at the Capitol Pub, 333 Main Street in Middleton ; and the second on Friday, October 22nd from 7:45 – 9:00 am at the Coastal Inn, 111 Warwick Street in Digby.

You can hear the success stories of those who have invested in growth; learn how your Regional Development Authority and CBDC’s can help you start or grow a business; and discover the potential Geographic Information Systems (GIS) holds for our economy and your business!

For more information or to make plans to attend contact ADEDA’s Dan Harvey at (902)526-4479 or dharvey@annapolisdigby.com.

P.S. You are subscribed to the mailing list using the following name: << Test First Name >> << Test Last Name >>. If this is incorrect or incomplete, please visit the "Update your profile" link at the bottom of this e-mail and make the necessary adjustments. Thanks



Till next week;

Peter

Peter MacLellan
Annapolis Digby EDA
86 Atlantic Avenue
PO Box 271
Cornwallis, Nova Scotia
Canada B0S 1H0

Tel: (902) 638-3490
Fax: (902) 638-8106
E: communications@annapolisdigby.com

ADEDA News

Tidal Power Already Fuelling Economic Potential
Recent reports in this newsletter - and throughout the mainstream media - of growing international interest in the tidal power potential of the Bay of Fundy are rapidly energizing economic conjecture in Annapolis Digby. And ADEDA has already been very actively working with the Town and Municipality of Digby to secure our geographical and workplace advantages in preparation for prospective business opportunities. ADEDA’s Managing Director said recently in a media interview that Digby was on the cusp of dramatic economic change and needed positioning and assistance quickly to take advantage of that latent potential.

ADEDA has already prepared a position paper that looks at, among other things, the expansion of our existing marine facilities to accommodate the projected capacity needed for the huge cranes and large buildings that would be required.

Meanwhile the local business community also heard plans for a more immediate marine related enterprise when the Digby and Area Board of Trade was briefed by Cooke Aquaculture of its plans for this area including further development of fish farms for salmon and processing facilities. The speakers outlined how currently their similar operations in other provinces are reaping benefits such as increased employment levels, new business development and service sector expansion.

Catch of the Week
However, in an innovative twist to our traditional fishery, it was equally wonderful to note that Atlantic Canada’s first Community Supported Fishery (CSF) was taking another step forward after a successful summer launch. The Off The Hook Cooperative, comprised of five bottom hook and line fishermen from Digby Neck and Islands, in partnership with the Ecology Action Centre, will begin weekly delivery of fresh, sustainably harvested haddock, hake and pollock to subscribing customers this week. The Annapolis Digby area already proudly and actively supports proponents of Community Sustainable Agriculture (CSA) and it’s great to see that another element of the sustainable community food movement is being made available as well.

Nature’s Playground
Meanwhile, back on “terra firma” an innovative new concept has been introduced in Bridgetown’s very popular Jubilee Park. An idea just a few months ago, local residents have marshalled volunteer labour and locally donated equipment and materials to create a “natural playground” that is proving extremely popular with young and old alike.

Keeping in Touch
If like many people you use social media to stay in touch with your regular sources of information and news, ADEDA is travelling with you. Our new communications feature is “Share ADEDA”, and you can access us using social media elements such as Face book, Twitter and YouTube. Just click on to our web site at www.annapolisdigby.com and slide over to the “Share ADEDA” box and click on your preferred icon.

Peter
ADEDA

ADEDA News

Farm Focus
The farmers in our region are all saying it’s been a good season. And one of the interesting aspects of our agriculture industry is the varied approaches and methods that can be found here. One of the newer approaches is “biodynamic” farming and a young couple, who operate the newly formed Bear River Agricultural Co-operative in Waldec, Annapolis County, are happy to show how this innovative new concept works.

You can visit with Tilo and Saskia Kolass at their farm this weekend as part of the provincial Open Farm Day program. As a matter of fact there are a number of opportunities to see our inventive agricultural entrepreneurs at work on September 19. In addition to Bear River Farm, the Wild Rose Farm’s organic operation in Gilbert’s Cove; the Pinehill Deer and Raspberries Farm in Brighton; the Annapolis Highland Vineyards and Winery in Bear River East ; and the den Haan Enterprises facilities in Lawrencetown will all be open that day to show visitors around. You can get more information by visiting the Open farm web site at www.gov.ns.ca/agri/agaware/openfarmday.shtml. Take the occasion to see how healthy and imaginative food options are increasingly being made available to us.

Savour the Flavour
And after you’ve taken up the invitations to view the local farm processes, get ready to taste the results. There are a number of ways to treat your gastronomic cravings at this time of year. Of course there are always our abundant farmers’ markets offering everything possible. But you can participate as well. A couple of great ways are to attend the upcoming Fall for Bear River festival, and to plan a culinary tour of Annapolis Digby by checking out the sensational seasonal entrees that’ll be available as part of Tastes of the Annapolis Valley Festival.

We truly live in an area of the world that’s blessed with abundance, especially at this time of year. And we have the opportunity to actually “follow the food” from the field to the table. Take these opportunities to satisfy your curiosity as well as your taste buds.

News From Under and Over the Bay
Over 100 people turned out in Westport to listen to 10 speakers as part of an information session to review Fundy Tidal Inc.’s plans to test a small scale tidal energy turbine in the area. The purpose of the exercise will be to test the concept on a small scale. The next step for Fundy Tidal is to finalize permits and regulatory matters along with funding before proceeding with a test of the actual equipment in the fall or spring of next year. ADEDA Development Officer Terry Thibodeau attended the session and said he thought the results were very positive. Partners for the project include Dalhousie and Acadia universities, Alberta based New Energy Corporation, Clare Machine Works, Bear River Plastics and Innovative Fisheries Products Ltd. Meanwhile, tidal energy proponents of a much bigger scale were also eyeing the potential of the Fundy. A U.K. company that is about to commission one of the world’s largest marine energy turbines off the coast of Scotland has targeted the Bay of Fundy for future projects.

These developments were part of the message given by ADEDA Managing Director Mike Gushue last week when he had the opportunity to brief the federal Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, the Hon. Keith Ashfield, during his visit to Digby. The briefing took place at the Digby ferry terminal and Gushue particularly stressed the importance of the Fundy ferry service and Digby’s port infrastructure improvements to prepare for looming development opportunities.

With all the activity designed to harness the underwater power potential of the Bay, the presentation to the ACOA Minister also offered an interesting observation when it was mentioned that companies working on both sides of the Bay often fly between their operational sites, with the flying time between Saint John and Digby reported to be about 15 minutes. That’s the kind of increasing activity that bound to give further impetus to the efforts to establish and grow a new aviation club at Digby Annapolis Regional Airport.

Celebrate Ciderfest
What with all the chatter about farm visits and local produce in this week’s newsletter I sure wasn’t going to forget about one of the longest standing fall celebrations in our area taking place this week. The 27th annual “Ciderfest” will be happening in Bridgetown from September 16-19. So plan to drop by in between your farm excursions to participate in the many activities being offered. I’m a big fan of cider – sometimes beginning and ending my day with a glass or two (different types of course). Oh no –why is The Wurzels “I Am a Cider Drinker” worming through my head at this moment. OMG – now it’s “I’ve Got a Brand New Harvester”. I love those guys but it’s obviously time to sign off for this week!

Till next week;

Peter

Peter MacLellan
Annapolis Digby EDA
86 Atlantic Avenue
PO Box 271
Cornwallis, Nova Scotia
Canada B0S 1H0

Tel: (902) 638-3490
Fax: (902) 638-8106
E: communications@annapolisdigby.com

We invite you to visit us anytime at www.annapolisdigby.com.

ADEDA News

Boatloads of Activity
Hard to believe we’re now into September and Fall is fast approaching. It’s been a busy summer for many of our tourism operators and one of the strongest indicators of that increased activity has been the dramatically expanded traffic over the past few months on the Princess of Acadia. The “Princess”, as she is fondly referred to around here, is the hardworking vessel that transports vehicles and passengers across the Bay of Fundy between the port of Saint John, New Brunswick and our port of Digby - Nova Scotia’s foremost Fundy seaport.

There’s been a 25 % increase in passenger traffic over this past season and the operating company, Bay Ferries, has announced that the Princess of Acadia service will accordingly add three extra weekly crossings to handle the demand.

While it’s great to see the service experiencing such success, it’s also led a number of business and community groups who have been advocating for an improved and expanded service to renew their efforts to secure long term commitments. The call is for a new vessel to replace the aging “Princess” and a commitment from all levels of government to pledge support.

The importance of the Fundy ferry service and port infrastructure improvements for Digby were among the points made by ADEDA’s Managing Director Mike Gushue in his presentation to federal Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Gail Shea last week. The Minister, who was accompanied by our Member of Parliament for West Nova, Greg Kerr, met with a number of community groups during her busy visit to the area.

Tapping New Energy Options
As they have all summer, new energy options seemed to be a big focus of local business interest. On the large stage, Canada’s outgoing Consul for New England said in an interview that the Premiers of Atlantic Canada continue to work hard to explore ways to access the growing American energy demand. He said that while the opportunities were varied and positive, much work still needed to be done.

From the macro to the more micro scale, a local company was hard at work making a case for a unique new renewable energy option. West Nova Agro Commodities of Lawrencetown has been presenting a business model for what might qualify as the ultimate ‘green” energy alternative. Their proposal calls for the use of grass as a viable fuel source.

Not every regional energy option was receiving local support however. The NoRigs 3 Coalition has called on the Nova Scotia government to impose a permanent ban on offshore exploration for oil and gas on Georges Bank. The Coalition is comprised of fishermen, fishing groups, environmentalists and Aboriginal groups and pointed to recent environmental disasters around the globe from offshore drilling as reason for perpetual prudence off our coast. The provincial government recently extended the current ban on Georges Bank exploration to 2015.

Organic Renewal
Just last week the federal government announced an assistance program to help our province’s organic farmers and producers. An indication that such support was warranted was rightfully evidenced in the announced revival of a 110 year old enterprise located here in Annapolis Digby. A team of local entrepreneurs has revitalized the century old Tupperville Fruit Company thanks to the fast growing interest in the local food movement. As an interesting aside, at least to me, Tupperville Fruit was originally part of the United Fruit Company. As an occasional traveller to Latin America, and especially since I’m currently reading the biography of one of my favourite authors, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, I come across frequent references to the economic power of the UFC. But didn’t know that its influence extended even into our area. Shame on me.

Planning For Business Succession
While the Tupperville Fruit Company story shows one way that our local enterprises get to live on, business longevity is more often today the result of deliberate planning and structured succession considerations. ADEDA is well aware of that need and is acting accordingly on behalf of local establishments. If that’s a subject that concerns you or your business, there’s a program of interest coming up shortly. More than 40 percent of business owners plan to leave their businesses in the next five years.

To help businesses considering this step the Annapolis Digby Economic Development Agency (ADEDA) in partnership with Acadia University’s Centre for Social and Business Entrepreneurship will be presenting “Beyond Your Business: Step-by-Step Succession Planning” later this month. This event is also supported by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA).

The seminar will be held at the ADEDA facilities, 86 Atlantic Avenue in Cornwallis Park, on Friday, September 24 from 9 AM to 3 PM.

There will be a panel of guest speakers who will offer an informative and insightful look at business succession planning. The program will include three webinars, a half day wrap up session and a “Succession Planning Tool Kit”. The fee is $79+HST and includes lunch.

For more information visit www.acsbe.com, or call Helen Abel at 902-585-1655; or helen.abel@acadiau.ca.

Seasonal Swing
As I mentioned earlier, the wonderful summer we have experienced in Annapolis Digby is coming to an end, but, hey, that’s no reason to be glum. Autumn is perhaps the most wondrous season of all here in our area. So celebrate its impending arrival. A great way to begin this weekend is to attend the “Swing Into Autumn” event in Annapolis Royal. The event will feature the Annapolis Big Band and be held on the grounds of Hillsdale House Inn on Sunday, September 12 from 2 – 4 PM. It’s a fundraiser in support of the Mersey Tobeatic Research Institute and the “Species at Risk in Nova Scotia Program”. I’m a big supporter of the Program – and have the licence plate to prove it by the way. Bring your picnic basket, a blanket and non-alcoholic refreshments. (Not to worry though there will be a sangria and beer cash bar). And perhaps even more comforting is the fact that I will NOT be one of the costumed “at risk” animals.

Admission will be a “donation” with proceeds going to the Species at Risk Program.

Till next week;

Peter

Peter MacLellan
Annapolis Digby EDA
86 Atlantic Avenue
PO Box 271
Cornwallis, Nova Scotia
Canada B0S 1H0

Tel: (902) 638-3490
Fax: (902) 638-8106
E: communications@annapolisdigby.com

ADEDA News

Testing The Tides
Fundy Tidal, Inc. of Westport has already announced plans to drop a test turbine in the waters off Digby County this fall to measure the potential for renewable energy from the tides, with hopes to begin commercial operation within three years. The turbine testing will be done in Grand Passage, which separates Long Island and Brier Island along Digby Neck. To bring everyone in the community, as well as interested alternative energy parties from all areas, up-to-date on their plans, Fundy Tidal along with scientists and government officials will be hosting an information session in Westport this Tuesday. It’s certainly a timely initiative, and receiving regional support. This fact was underlined in a recent media interview with the President of the Atlantica Centre for Energy who called for more regional cooperation, and cited tidal power as part of our region’s “unique (energy) diversity in a relatively small footprint”.

A Boost for Boatbuilders
In addition to new ventures underwater, there was good news for those industries in our area which traditionally ride the waves in our marine environment. The federal and provincial governments recently announced funding for a program to help the Nova Scotia Boatbuilders Association promote and market their products around the world. A spokesperson for one of this area’s leading shipyards, A.F. Theriault and Son Ltd., described the initiative as a significant one in “keeping this important part of our coastal livelihood alive, and greatly appreciated.”

Look up – Look Waaaaaay Up!
Ah, yes, one of the famous welcoming lines from the much loved CBC television children’s show The Friendly Giant. Well, the show’s now long gone – and that’s to be much lamented – but ”Friendly's” opening admonition can still hold true here if you’re visiting nearby Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site. The Park, in partnership with the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada recently officially celebrated the designation of “Keji” as Nova Scotia’s first Dark Sky Preserve, committed to protect and preserve the night sky for visitors by applying strict lighting guidelines to reduce light pollution. By the way, there is absolutely no basis to the scurrilous suggestion by some that the much loved TV show met its demise because (my favourite character) Rusty the Rooster always appeared “half in the bag”. (Hey, just a little pun for those of us who knew and loved this wonderful series!).

An Oscar For Smiths Cove
Speaking of children’s entertainment, my home hamlet of Smiths Cove is the setting for a wonderful new children’s book set in that lovely seaside community. Oscar the herring gull is the mischievous hero of a book penned by “Cove” native Roberta Heembrock, who now lives in Calgary. It’s a warm tale of childhood summers on the Basin. And by the way, the human heroine of the story, Grammie Sara – in reality the author’s Aunt Mary Lou - is a friend of mine and one of the most respected and beloved members of our community. From this brief description I bet many of you already know who she is.

This Sporting Life
As I mentioned in my opening, summer may be on its slow slide into autumn, but for sports fans such as me, things are just heating up. Sure, the Canadian, US and college football seasons are swinging into play. But that most venerable, contemplative and analytical of pastimes – yes, I mean baseball - is heading into its home stretch. It’s far and away my favourite sport. I played it passionately as a kid, moving through my youth from third base, to shortstop to second base as my respective competitive leagues strengthened but my throwing arm didn’t. I have faithfully followed my beloved Saint Louis Cardinals for more than a half century and check their overnight results first thing every morning. But I also have to confess that like a lot of folks in Atlantic Canada, I grew up with my ear strained to a sometimes faint radio signal from Boston’s Fenway Park and followed the Red Sox on those long ago summer evenings. But there’s no doubt that the leading BoSox fan in all of our region was a young boy growing up in Freeport, on Long Island. Jim Prime’s new home is today a shine to the fabled Boston franchise and his loyalty has been rewarded. He has just been named as acting lieutenant-governor of Red Sox Nation by the Boston organization. Hard to say why Jim persevered with the Sox while I cemented such loyalty to the Cards, maybe because there was better radio reception on Digby Neck than in Cape Breton. Truth be told – it was the uniforms.

The Annapolis Digby area is full of sports buffs and sporting towns. At the other end of our region from Freeport – in the town of Bridgetown - an active group within the newly formed Bridgetown Area Sports Hall of Fame is now planning to enshrine its first series of nominees. With over a century of local, national and international heroes in its remarkable sports annals they shouldn’t have any trouble developing a long list of candidates.

Material Culture, Agriculture and Cafe Culture
The diversity of offerings that characterize our area is available again this week. If you’re interested in historic homes and beautiful gardens, you can take in the Five Century House Tour in Annapolis Royal. Our area’s farming focus, along with horse shows, ox pulls and great home cooking will be on display this week at the Digby County Exhibition. And if you’re looking for a weekend stop with a more francophone flavour, drop by the newly opened Acadian Centre at the Universite Sainte-Anne in Church Point. You can learn about Acadian history, visit the art gallery and boutique, and taste the assortment of homemade goodies in the charming cafe. Try and get them all in if you can.

Till next week;

Peter

Peter MacLellan
Annapolis Digby EDA
86 Atlantic Avenue
PO Box 271
Cornwallis, Nova Scotia
Canada B0S 1H0

Tel: (902) 638-3490
Fax: (902) 638-8106
E: communications@annapolisdigby.com

ADEDA News

From Peter

It’s a wonderful time of the year to be a “foodie” here in Annapolis Digby, with burgeoning crops filling our fields, and the roadside stands and local farmers’ markets bursting with fresh produce. For the past week or so I’ve been gulping down more fresh local berries and vegetables that a foraging brown bear. We make a habit at “Chez MacLellan” of visiting the markets and subscribe to a local Community Sustainable Agriculture initiative, so I can pursue a healthy indulgence without fear of stepping on the scale.

Outstanding in their Fields
Another tune that dances through my fertile, if often unfocused, mind at this time of the year is Murray McLauchlan’s “The Farmer’s Song”, a lyrical tribute and heartfelt thank you to those hard working folks who make sure we have this gift of plenty. Last week a report out of Halifax suggested that the amount of local food being purchased by consumers had declined over a ten year period. But the good news was that this trend seemed to be reversing markedly due to determined local marketing and more access. One of the initiatives introduced by the Nova Scotia Federation of Agriculture was its “Meet Your Farmer” campaign, which featured a local farm family from Lawrencetown.

Savour the Flavour
You can “cultivate” your own summer countryside experience this month in a number of ways, whether you live in Annapolis Digby or make the smart decision to come and visit with us. There are always the excellent agricultural exhibitions for the counties of Annapolis (August 16-21) and Digby (August 25-28) of course. And you can share the home grown taste of our region at a zesty upcoming event in Annapolis Royal later this month. If you want to also indulge your creative juices in support of our agricultural endeavours Annapolis Highland Vineyards, an award winning local winery, has announced a contest looking for submissions for their 2010 vintage label designs.

A “Cornucopia” of August Offerings
Whatever gets you moving around Annapolis Digby this month – and wherever you find yourself in our area – there’s equal abundance in things to see and do. Annapolis Royal has an ambitious program of events celebrating the 300th anniversary of the renaming of the town; and at the other end of the Annapolis Basin the town of Digby has an equally impressive array of activities, beginning of course with this week’s annual Scallop Days festival. And to experience a special cultural treat, don’t forget that our neighbours in Clare are hosting the Festival Acadien de Clare, the oldest Acadian festival in the world, which continues until August 15. Keep checking the Upcoming Events section of our web site for information on these and other offerings.

Crafting A Framework For Success
While August is undeniably a great time to kick back and enjoy our region’s fresh foods, fine wines, and fun events, a talented team in our local workforce is celebrating in a slightly different way, with a business success story. Lewis Mouldings of Weymouth is anticipating a banner year for its global woodworking enterprise. The Digby County manufacturer of finger-pointed pine mouldings has announced solid sales projections and the accompanying financial support of the province’s economic development agency.

Sharing Our Blessings
It is indeed a good time to celebrate the good fortune and good times that come with living where we do. But it’s also rewarding to know that folks in our area can take a moment to remember that there are other parts of this world that don’t share in our abundance of resources and opportunities. Over the weekend Annapolis County supporters of a school in Thailand held a “Gigantic Bake and Yard Sale” as part of their ongoing campaign to support young Burmese refugee children. The project was started by a Canadian journalist originally from Middleton, and let’s hopes that this event, and all future endeavours, will see their goals met.

“Fore” Warned
With all the activities going on this week, I’ll be close to home celebrating the Digby Scallop Days festival. Especially the street parade on Saturday, where I hope to share the event with the first of my two grandsons born over the past year. But before that, I’ll be participating in the Tartan Classic golf tournament , a charity event for the Digby Area Learning Association, and where all the participants are encouraged to wear kilts (and yes I will) or at least some regalia of Scottish correlation. Now even after all these years I remain the ultimate “duffer” so if you see me – stand clear. No matter where - because I can spend so much time in the woods that I risk the moniker of the “Smiths Cove Sasquatch” (better than the” Yarmouth Yeti” one supposes). And after all that activity, golf, parades, etc., there’s the prospect of a feed of those delicious, world famous, Digby scallops. Join me – figuratively speaking – and Bon Appétit!

Till next week;
Peter

Peter MacLellan
Annapolis Digby EDA
86 Atlantic Avenue
PO Box 271
Cornwallis, Nova Scotia
Canada B0S 1H0

Tel: (902) 638-3490
Fax: (902) 638-8106
E: communications@annapolisdigby.com

ADEDA News

Peter MacLellan

One of the things you get to do on these occasions is to check out how other communities welcome visitors and make the travel experience more interesting and inviting. There's a whole new breed of traveller these days who want more than just a pretty place to visit with static exhibits and basic services. Like them I wanted the journey to be an "experience", one where I felt welcome and engaged.

That's why it was interesting to note the past week the ways that our businesses and tourism industry planners in Annapolis Digby were getting ahead of that experiential travel curve in putting out the regional welcome mat for visitors.

Come On In!
When highly regarded international tourism consultant Roger Brooks came to our area to study and propose ways to improve our services, one of the recommendations was to create more inviting streetscapes and facilities appearance by local businesses. The study and subsequent report was facilitated by ADEDA, and follow-up sessions have been held with businesses in both Annapolis Royal and Digby to discuss ways to act on the recommendations. In Annapolis Royal ADEDA coordinated a business makeover contest to illustrate how good looks can mean good business. And there was also ample evidence in Digby that the message was being well understood and received as well.

Back to the Future
And that experiential tourism option will get no better illustration than when history comes alive in ways that you can see, feel, smell and maybe even touch in Annapolis Royal very shortly. The 84th Regiment of Foot, 2nd Battalion, Royal Highland Emigrants are coming to Fort Anne National Historic Park very shortly. This is a living history re-enactment of a military encampment during the American Revolution, and it will be at Fort Anne on July 30th. It's a great chance for local families as well as visitors to experience directly the every day feel of an 18th century military encampment - and it'll be anything but static. And speaking of experiential tourism, folks in Annapolis Royal; also got to inhale the aroma of both fine wines and lovely roses recently at a Historic Gardens event. If you missed that chance, fear not - and stay tuned - there's a similar opportunity in the offing.

Old Friends Seek New Opportunities
A strong relationship that goes back a couple of centuries doesn't mean that it can't look to an even more exciting future. The Premier of the Province of Nova Scotia and the Governor of the State of Maine underlined that fact - as well as a new document - when they signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on renewable oceans energy development. Nova Scotia and Maine have always had a strong relationship in many areas ranging from businesses connections to longstanding family ties. This new MOU recognizes the tremendous opportunities now before both jurisdictions in the emerging fields of tidal energy and wind power, as well as new technology development.

Shared Interests Bridge the Gulf
As if to pave the way for the recent MOU signing between the governments of Nova Scotia and Maine, a group of local students and adults joined with their peers from the United States recently to discuss the present and future health of the Gulf of Maine and its international watershed. The occasion was the 10th anniversary of the Gulf of Maine Institute, held at the Annapolis Basin Conference Centre in Cornwallis Park, and shared environmental projects were at the top of the agenda.

Busier Than Ever
The Bay of Fundy is still very much in play in other areas these days. While political leaders signed development research agreements, and environmentalists young and old from both sides of the border worked to preserve its natural features, the Bay's transportation workhorse was busier than ever. The Princess of Acadia, the ferry that traverses the waters of the Fundy between Digby and Saint John, New Brunswick, has been having a hard working summer. And the fact that the "Acadia" has been so busy this year has our community leaders pointing out that this certainly underlines the growing and essential business case for this marine service, and expressing the hope that plans for improvements in equipment and capacity are in the near future.

Cyclists get the Green Light
While a traditional sea ferry service was getting busier than ever, a newly rediscovered form of land based transit just got a new boost. Bicycle riders in our area got, excuse the expression but I couldn't resist, a "leg up" recently. Cyclists in the towns of Annapolis Royal and Bridgetown will benefit from a newly announced provincial program to develop infrastructure aimed at active and more sustainable transportation.

Happy Trails
As I mentioned at the outset, I've been travelling for family reasons. No one told me to "take a hike". But if they did I'd probably head for the Delap's Cove Wilderness Trail this week. It's the 25th anniversary this year for the Bohaker Falls at the Trail and there are a several special events to mark it, with the first one is on the 21st. And there's another on August 15 if you can't make that. But you can go anytime - it's a terrific outdoor experience. I first discovered this gem 12 years ago when we took our new puppy for a walk. He escaped, still dragging his leash through the woods and thus causing great concern. We found him shortly, happy but thirsty. He probably won't be making it with us this year, he's older and minds the heat. Sadly I'm the same way in both aspects - but I know what I'd be missing. So maybe we'll see you on the Trail.

Till next week;

Peter

Peter MacLellan
Annapolis Digby EDA
86 Atlantic Avenue
PO Box 271
Cornwallis, Nova Scotia
Canada B0S 1H0

Tel: (902) 638-3490
Fax: (902) 638-8106
E: communications@annapolisdigby.com

We invite you to visit us anytime at www.annapolisdigby.com.

ADEDA News

Last Thursday evening the ADEDA Chair, Warden Peter Newton, hosted our Annual General Meeting with fiscal reports, remarks from special guests and highlight presentations by the agency’s Managing Director and staff. The Garden Room at the Digby Pines was filled to capacity. The turnout was an encouraging indicator of the interest in the work we’re doing, and the comments a show of encouragement for our efforts. The successes of the past year, and the opportunities - as well as the challenges – facing the upcoming term were outlined and discussed.

On Friday we were busy hosting a public Renewable Energy Briefing in partnership with the Nova Scotia department of Energy; and we were delighted with the number of participants and the range of interests that were represented. Today is Digby Port Day, which we have been organizing and promoting on behalf of the Digby Harbour Port Association. It’s a new initiative designed to focus on the future opportunities for the Port of Digby, described by many maritime analysts as “Nova Scotia’s face on the Fundy”. The historical as well as the present significance of the Port of Digby was well considered recently in a piece by local newspaper columnist Kristy Herron.

Membertou Re-enactment a Moving Experience
Messages of peace and harmony between peoples permeated a dramatic re-enactment next to the Habitation in Port Royal, home to the first French settlers on these shores. The event began the much anticipated celebrations associated with Membertou 400. Almost 500 people representing the Mi’kmaq, French and English attended the event, the first of five days of celebrations marking the great chief’s life.

Keeping a Light
With the loss of the much loved, if short-lived, windmill in Bear River reported recently, it’s great to be able to report that community restoration efforts have succeeded in maintaining and preserving a landmark structure in another of our scenic locales. An appreciative and admiring group of “Hamptonians”, and particularly the Hampton Lighthouse and Historical Society, gathered to watch as a newly renovated lamp room was gently lowered atop the 30 metre structure.

Youth Will be Served – And in Turn So Will Our Community
News abounded from one end of Annapolis Digby to the other this past week as the achievements of our area’s young achievers took to the fore in their reported accomplishments. While the preservation of our heritage landmark structures and celebrations honouring generations past are certainly much deserving of note (hey, that’s why they’re in the newsletter this week), we are wise to remember that the look of our future is on the faces of our next generation.

Collectively there was no better illustration of that fact that the many awards and accomplishments recognized recently at the Valley campus of the Nova Scotia Community College as 205 graduates were honoured. The NSCC Valley Campus continues to be an invaluable educational and training resource for our community, and we should also recognize the educators and administrators who continue to produce scholars of excellence.

An exceptional individual academic achievement was recognized by the Province of Nova Scotia when a local high school student was recently honoured as one of the select winners of the Premier’s Power of Positive Change Award. Congratulations to Grade 11 Bridgetown regional High School student Carsten MacLean. At ADEDA we like to think that the power of positive change is what we should be about – thanks Carsten for showing us the way to get it done.

Moving out of the classroom, we see another local student achieving on the athletic field. Digby’s Anne Balser, a student at the University of Victoria, recently won the women’s individual championship at the Canadian University College golf competition. To follow it off she immediately jetted off to Spain where she finished among the top dozen contestants at the World University games. I play the same home course as Anne but perhaps not so well.

Getting HIP to Health
And so with all these super achieving young people in our area, it’s important that their physical and personal health needs don’t miss a beat – even over the summer months. So it’s good to know that a number of student oriented Health Information Places (HIP) will be open across the Annapolis Digby region during the next couple of months.

Well, I’m off today to the Digby Port Day event, try and join us if you’re in the area and get this newsletter in time. By the way, inspired by Ms. Balser, I took to the links this past weekend. Regret to inform you I will not be going to Spain as a result.

Till next week;

Peter

Peter MacLellan
Annapolis Digby EDA

ADEDA News

Hello Kathleen,

We’ve written a lot lately about the natural wonders of the Bay of Fundy which defines the coastline of Annapolis Digby, and with whale watchers, rock hounds, beachcombers and sea kayakers among the many visitors who are visiting our shores at this time, the Bay’s commercial potential is also getting plenty of recognition.

A columnist in one local newspaper quoted a local entrepreneur as describing the area as a budding “Fundy Riviera”, and while that may raise some sceptical eyebrows there’s no doubt there’s a lot to of potential for new and non traditional business interests here.

Renewed Enthusiasm on the Wharf
Digby is undeniably Nova Scotia’s preeminent marine portal to the Bay of Fundy. As global awareness of the Bay and its potential increases, the Port of Digby is presented with myriad opportunities to take advantage. That’s why it was wonderful to see the improvements in both infrastructure and operating policies that the Digby Harbour Port Association has made over a short time to the town’s main wharf. And it’s something that will be studied as well as celebrated next week on June 28 during the inaugural Digby Port Day seminar.

Two If By Sea
One of the most recent manifestations of the emerging potential of our port facilities and adjacent regional attractions was the visit last year of the cruise ship Balmoral, the first of what is hoped to be regular cruise stopovers here. The one day call in and local tours delivered 1200 visitors and an estimated $100,000 injection into the local economy. But we should remember that there’s a regular daily opportunity to cruise the Bay on the ferry “Princess of Acadia” travelling between Digby and Saint John. That fact was highlighted in a promotion by Destination South West Nova Scotia and Bay Ferries when they hosted two groups of travel agents and media personnel last week to showcase the local cruise opportunities.

Dusting Off the Welcome Mat
Sensing the optimism as well as the opportunity that could rest just over the horizon, local business groups met in Digby and Annapolis Royal last week to review and discuss a recent consultant’s report that suggested ways we could make our facilities more welcoming and visitors more inclined to stay and shop.

Peeking Outside the Box
Seeklng to support those new opportunities that we in Annapolis Digby sense are coming our way, Team Southwest, a task force of federal, provincial and local government officials, along with regional business leaders, was hosted at our ADEDA facilities recently. The Team has been formed to deal with existing challenges as well as identify new economic development opportunities and build a supporting work plan.

Environmental Innovation
And if we needed to be shown that there were already new ideas aplenty in our area, there was no better illustration than the news last week that Sissaboo Farm Supplies was honoured at the 12th Annual Mobius Environmental Awards as a winner in the best Small Business of the Year category by the province’s Resource Recovery Fund Board. RRFB Nova Scotia singled out the Weymouth firm for the introduction of its innovative “Easy Sorter” system. Ideas for environmental innovation will be entertained further this week as ADEDA, in partnership with the Government of Nova Scotia, hosts a community Renewable Energy Planning seminar this week, on June 25, at 10AM in Cornwallis Park.

Busy Week Ahead
If you’re proud of our rich heritage, and who isn’t around here, then be there as our history comes to life at Port-Royal National Historic Site on Thursday, June 24, with a re-enactment of the baptism of Grand Chief Henri Membertou. More than a dozen local actors will step back to 1610 and portray the characters of Membertou, his family and the early French settlers the Mi'kmaq befriended and protected. The re-enactment will begin around noon following a celebratory mass presided over by Archbishop Martin Currie, with Apostolic Nuncio, Pedro Quintana, Bishop Brian Dunn of the diocese of Antigonish, and other Catholic bishops. Mi'kmaw artisans will demonstrate traditional crafts from four Wigwams and a light lunch, featuring Mi'kmaw recipes, will be served. For more information on the Grand Chief Membertou 400 celebrations visit www.Membertou400.com. For information about Port-Royal National Historic Site of Canada, visit www.parkscanada.gc.ca/portroyal.

Taking place later on the 24th will be our Annapolis Digby Economic Development Agency (ADEDA) Annual General Meeting at the Digby Pines from 5 – 7 PM.

Since I’m a bit of a brass band buff, (and since the daily dose of World Cup games should be over by that time), I may try and take in the Chester Brass Band concert at St. Luke’s Anglican Church at 7 p.m. on Saturday, June 26 as part of Annapolis Royal’s 300th Anniversary Music Series. The concert program promises classical works, marches, spirituals, popular melodies, and original works arranged specifically for brass bands; tickets are $10 and are available in advance from Town Hall or Westside Studio and at the church door at the time of the concert.

Ending this week on a laudatory note, and as someone who strongly believes we have some of the finest health care professionals in Canada in our community, well deserved congratulations are due to Middleton’s Doctor Jane Brooks who was recently installed as President of Doctors Nova Scotia.

And to all my health care providers I assure you I was moderate in all things on Father’s Day…seriously…I promise…no, really…

Till next week;

Peter

Peter MacLellan
Annapolis Digby EDA
86 Atlantic Avenue
PO Box 271
Cornwallis, Nova Scotia
Canada B0S 1H0

Tel: (902) 638-3490
Fax: (902) 638-8106

ADEDA News

A Local Scoop
And speaking of community media coverage, congratulations are deserved this week for the Annapolis County Spectator, one of the community newspapers that serve Annapolis Digby so well. The Spectator was recently named top newspaper in its class by the Atlantic Community Newspapers Association at their awards ceremonies in Halifax. Those of us familiar with the diligent work, long hours and insightful weekly coverage provided by our local journalists aren’t surprised by this recognition. But, nonetheless, a well deserved “tip of the hat” (the one with the little “press” tag in the hatband) to the Spectator team for their excellent work.

Faithful Foundations
Also in progress while I was in Halifax was the national Synod of the Anglican Church of Canada, held in Nova Scotia this year in part to mark the 300th anniversary of its presence in our province, beginning right here.

The first Anglican worship in Nova Scotia was a three-hour-long, Oct. 10, 1710, Thanksgiving service in Port Royal, celebrated by clergy of what was then known as the Church of England. The Church will hold a service at St. Luke’s Annapolis Royal, on that actual anniversary date. It will use the same liturgy as the original 1710 service. More information will be posted on our web site and in a future newsletter.

And the occasion serves to remind us of the many superb examples of church architecture, representing many denominations, which dot our region. It’s just another example of the incredibly rich history of structural design that “blesses” our communities.

Membertou 400 Coming Up
An even longer standing ceremony of faithful observance is scheduled for next week with the marking of the 400th anniversary of the baptism of Grand Chief Henri Membertou. Local ceremonies will be held at Port Royal National Historic Park on June24. Among the guests coming to Nova Scotia to mark this occasion is Archbishop Pedro Quintana, Apostolic Nuncio to Canada.

Building Our Marine Research Capacity
Following on last week’s focus on international Oceans Day and the importance of oceans management to our region, there was great news from Universite Sainte-Anne last week. The university officially opened its new marine research centre, adding to an already impressive marine learning agenda. The centre is designed to further assist local marine and aquaculture industries face new challenges and pursue new opportunities.

In a related side story, there was intriguing news from just down the road from the Université Sainte-Anne about a local company receiving a major award to assist with the development of a programmable bait saver for lobster traps. Good to see both our academic and private sector communities moving forward with new initiatives.

Port Day Coming Ashore
The heightened emphasis on local marine research adds to the impetus for a successful launch of the upcoming Digby Port Day. The first of what is planned to be an annual look at the growing potential of the Port of Digby is scheduled for June 28 at the Digby Heritage Centre, from 10 AM to 2 PM. Speakers and presenters will include Reg Hazelton, Digby Harbor Port Authority Chairman; Terri McCulloch, Manager of the Bay of Fundy Tourism Partnership; Dan Bartlett, Vice President of Bay Ferries; John Woods, Vice President (Energy Development) Minas Basin Pulp and Power; Digby Mayor Ben Cleveland and Jim Thurber, Warden of the Municipality of the District of Digby.

Special keynote speaker will be Greg Kerr, Member of Parliament for West Nova.

And there’ll be a special guest appearance by Bay of Fundy Tourism’s popular new “Whale Car”. For more information contact me at communications@annapolisdigby.com, and for plans to participate contact Terry Thibodeau at tthibodeau@annapolisdigby.com.

A “Relay” Great Show
On a note close to my heart, it was wonderful to see the contribution to cancer research raised by the enthusiastic and dedicated participants at this year’s Digby Relay for Life. Congratulations to all – especially the organizers – for raising awareness as well as making an astounding financial contribution.

While I have to admire the commitment of the Digby walkers, my focus of physical activity this week, aside from the regular market visits and acting as a reluctant gardening assistant, will be digital. By that I mean my fingers on frenetic channel changing. Yes, the Stanley Cup is over (Way to go ‘Hawks – what did I tell you!) – but let’s bring on the World Cup. My head says Argentina – but my heart’s with Mexico, even after the tie with South Africa (I just love to watch those Latin American teams – and the fans!). Ole! Ole! Amigos…

Till next week;

Peter

Peter MacLellan
Annapolis Digby EDA
86 Atlantic Avenue
PO Box 271
Cornwallis, Nova Scotia
Canada B0S 1H0

Tel: (902) 638-3490
Fax: (902) 638-8106
E: communications@annapolisdigby.com

We invite you to visit us anytime at www

Digby Port Day
The town of Digby in particular, and the Fundy and Basin areas in general, will be looking at the economic, social and environmental aspects of our marine resources. On Monday, June 28, the Digby Harbour Port Authority, supported by ADEDA, will be hosting a seminar called Digby Port Day: Our Port – Our Future. From 10 AM until 2 PM the seminar will feature noted speakers and panellists addressing our port facility and our immediate marine environment. The special luncheon speaker will be our Member of Parliament for West Nova, Greg Kerr. Keep checking our web site, and future editions of the newsletter, for more details outlining location, topics and speaker profiles. For immediate information, or to make plans to attend, contact ADEDA’s Terry Thibodeau at tthibodeau@annapolisdigby.com, or me at communications@annapolisdigby.com. If you’re involved in marine activities, use the port of Digby, our just concerned about these issues – mark the date on your calendar.

When you have a seacoast as spectacular as ours, the subject of oceans management is a constant cause for discussion and concern. And that’s top of mind this week as we celebrate international Oceans Day on June 8.

Oceans Day was formally declared during the 1992 international “Earth Summit” in Rio de Janiero, spearheaded by the Canadian delegation which wanted the future of our oceans to be considered as part of the meeting agenda. It’s particularly special to me since I was part of the Canadian NGO which facilitated that declaration. When the NGO mission leader and I were discussing (and, OK, there may have been a Brazilian beverage or two involved) which day would be appropriate for our declaration, we learned that June 8 was the date of her birthday and my wedding anniversary. So –hey – there was obvious karma at work. Accordingly a decision was made. True story.

In the intervening 18 years the celebrations have spread worldwide. You can check out global events by visiting The Ocean Project at http://theoceanproject.org/wod/.

Tourism
When acclaimed tourism consultant Roger Brooks visited our region last year, he stressed the need for improved business signage and additional storefront beautification as the most effective way to draw shoppers inside. Once inside, visitors are likely to buy more, leaving their dollars in our communities. Brooks has proven over and over again that a small investment in beautification and signage can pay for itself many times over, and quickly!

Every business person should do what they do best, and partner for the rest. Those of us who are not design/decoration experts can partner with those who are. All will benefit. That’s why we are calling this initiative “Business to Business to Prosperity”, or “B2B2$”.

If you want to learn about local businesses that can help you make your business grow, there’s help on the horizon. If you have a business in Digby County, reserve Wednesday, June 16 at the Digby Pines at 6:30pm on your calendar. If you have a business in Annapolis County, make that Tuesday, June 15 at the Annapolis Royal Legion, same time.

Come learn about Roger Brooks’ recommendations for our communities and what it can mean for your business. You will also meet with local businesses that can help you put these improvements in place – it’s all about driving business to your business! Contact Joy O’Neill, Economic Development Officer, for additional information. She can be reached at 638-8139 or via email at: joneill@annapolisdigby.com

Last week our region’s own Digby Pines Resort was the venue for the Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia’s (TIANS) Annual General Meeting. TIANS is the voice of advocacy for the tourism sector, working with industry and government on national issues, transportation policy, the environment, human resources and financial advocacy. A power point presentation outlining TIANS’ major issues and achievements is available online. Rob McCloskey, Director General of Tourism Atlantic clarified the relationship between ACOA and Tourism. Chip Madera, a powerful motivational presenter, spoke about using trying times to re-tool and bring about radical change. Get motivated by Chip’s insights at The Artful Blogger! If you’re wondering what is the real economic impact of that local festival or event? Check out details of the new TIEM analytical model, which will be available by year end. Check out The Artful Blogger for some more comments on TIEM.

Waves of the Future
When we maintain that the future of our oceans resources is a front and centre concern in this region, we only need to consider the award winning science project designed by a talented local high school student. She won national honours for her work studying the future of wave energy. It’s great to be reminded that our young students are so eager and able to address the challenges that shape the destiny of places like Annapolis Digby.

The Bay on the Hill
While Oceans Day has been established to focus international attention on the plight and the future of our oceans, particularly among our world’s political and government leaders, it was good to learn that some of our own politicians had already been placing it on the national agenda. Last month. The Bay of Fundy’s growing world prominence was the subject of discussion within the venerable halls of our House of Commons, thanks to the enthusiastic efforts of our local Members of Parliament. You might say they were ahead of the tide.

“Claws” for Notice
And, forgive me, but I couldn’t let any journal discussing our ocean’s abundance omit an interesting yarn about a giant crustacean recently fetched from the deeps off our coast recently. We all know that the finest lobster in world is harvested right here in south western Nova Scotia. It’s a fishery that is well conducted, and well managed, and can produce the biggest as well as the best. Think of the number of lobster sandwiches here.


In the Market For Attention
The natural wonders of our seacoast, and its succulent seafood, are just a couple of reasons why Annapolis Digby is fast becoming one of the world’s top tourism destinations for global travellers. Those of us lucky enough to live here are becoming accustomed to the multinational roster of visitors who are drawn here – many of whom then chose to return and live with us. And to accelerate that development the Province of Nova Scotia just recently unveiled a new “Explore Our Shores” campaign to attract even more visitors to our region. If you want a sneak visual preview you can go to our web site or visit. Officials with the Department of Tourism, Culture and Heritage have been working with staff from the Destination South West Nova Scotia Association to develop this well-timed campaign.

Ongoing Success Leads to New “Zip” For Park
And our local recreation and tourism operators are sure doing their part to underline and consolidate the efforts of the provincial marketing campaign. Already a success story in terms of both management and results, the management of Upper Clements Park recently provided more details of its proposed 250 acre Adventure Park. Opening this summer will be two new aerial Zip lines. And that’s just the beginning of an exciting new facility that will act in concert with the existing theme park. Many more features are planned over the next 18 months.


And our own ADEDA staff has been doing their bit to boost visits to the area. At recent tourism trade shows our booths and presentations were popular destinations.

So this week, especially when you’re watching the depressing news from the Gulf of Mexico, give a thought to how we can be better stewards of our oceans. Organize a beach sweep, get to Oceans Day activities wherever you can and support our local oceans preservation organizations. And I’d better remember the other reason for that date, or I’ll be in deep something – and it won’t be the “briny deep”!

Till next week;

Peter

Peter MacLellan
Annapolis Digby EDA
86 Atlantic Avenue
PO Box 271
Cornwallis, Nova Scotia
Canada B0S 1H0

Tel: (902) 638-3490
Fax: (902) 638-8106
E: communications@annapolisdigby.com