Nova Scotia Tourism Strategy Planning Session Scheduled for NSCC on February 3rd

Attention all tourism operators! This information has just arrived at my desk from Mary Tulle, CEO of Destination Cape Breton Association, and because of its important message, I want to pass it along to all those in our tourism industry. The date of the NS. Tourism Strategy Planning Session in Sydney is Friday, February 3rd from 10:30 - 12:30, and will be held at NSCC Marconi. It is very important to have a say in these sessions as Cape Breton is a major part of the tourism industry in Nova Scotia and we must make sure that our needs are not overlooked.


Nova Scotia Tourism Strategy Planning Session



Good afternoon

As many of you may be aware there is a new Special Operating Agency (SOA) being formed that will lead in the creation and implementation of a new tourism strategy for Nova Scotia. In order for the strategy to be properly and accurately developed, stakeholder input is critical. YOU are a stakeholder and your thoughts and opinions need to be heard.

Bluteau Devenney is working with the interim Strategy Committee to facilitate open house sessions province wide and on Friday, February 3 from 10:30 - 12:30, a session will be held at NSCC Marconi. I encourage you to attend in person but should that not be possible there are two additional options availabe to you to provide your feedback. The attached links take you to both an online survey and questionnaire.

Nova Scotia Tourism Strategic Plan Questionnaire
Nova Scotia Tourism Agency Strategic Planning Stakeholders Survey

The change in the structure of tourism for Nova Scotia, coupled with the opportunity for things to be done "in a new and improved way", are goals that we all strive to achieve. Providing input into how and what these changes can be, however, are opportunities that you can impact.

I genuinely thank you in advance for taking the time to come to the session in person, or for completing the survey and / or questionnaire.

Should you have any further questions please don't hesitate to contact me at 902 539 0300 or via email at anytime mary@dcba.ca.

I hope to see you on the 3rd.

Kind regards
Mary Tulle



As part of the development of a five year strategic plan for Nova Scotia tourism, our firm Bluteau DeVenney and Company has been retained by the Nova Scotia Tourism Agency to facilitate the strategic planning process. A key component of that process is the gathering of perspectives from those stakeholders in the sector – whether private industry, government, supporting associations, etc. The process will have three key components - the gathering of information, sifting and synthesizing of data, feedback for trends and themes, and the development of the plan and resulting action items required to achieve success in the future.

In addition to asking the current sector key questions, we are also gathering information from a number of sources including past stakeholder input and regional, national and international activity and research. Understanding what is working well, building on the sectors strengths and capturing opportunities that currently exist or which could be developed are important focus points as are the capabilities required to make these things happen and the challenges that are faced by the sector.

We will be facilitating focus group sessions in the locations below to provide an opportunity for tourism sector stakeholders (operators, training providers, associations, etc) to provide input and inform this process. Your perspective can help shape the new strategic plan and the direction of the tourism sector in Nova Scotia.

We ask that you please check your schedule and attend one of the sessions below. If you are unable to attend, we will be providing access to an online survey. The sessions are being conducted at the following Nova Scotia Community College campuses and we thank them for their support. The
sessions are scheduled for 2 hours. To ensure space and supports are adequate, we ask that you please RSVP to the following email by providing your name, company name and session you plan on attending - rsvp@bluteaudevenney.com.

Jan 31st NSCC Kingstec- Wolfville. 8:30am - 10:30am

Jan 31st NSCC Burridge- Yarmouth 2:00pm - 4:pm

Feb 1st NSCC Lunenburg- Bridgewater 10:00am - Noon

Feb 2nd NSCC Truro 9:00am - 11:00am

Feb 2nd NSCC Pictou 1:30pm- 3:30pm

Feb 3rd NSCC Marconi- Sydney 10:30am- 12:30

Feb 7th NSCC Halifax Campus 2:30pm- 4:30

We are looking forward to hearing your thoughts and our continued work with the NSTA and the individuals and associations that strive to make our tourism sector a vibrant and profitable economic driver of the Province.

Wayne Woodard

Tourism in Richmond County

The Saltscapes Travel Expo is quickly approaching for those operators who would like to promote their business. The Expo will take place in Halifax from April 27th to 29th and Destination Cape Breton will be there. After evaluating DCBA's presence at last year's show through surveys and by talking to previous participants to get their opinions, the association has decided to take a slightly different direction at this year's show. DCBA will be attending this year with a condensed presence, with the focus on selling Cape Breton as a vacation destination for this tourism season. The association will be booking a 20X30 foot space which will be manned with Destination Cape Breton staff and three Visitor Information Counselors and they would like to extend an invitation to any animators from other organizations to take part in the Cape Breton display at no charge.Travel costs would need to be covered by each individual attending.

Additionally, DCBA is offering tourism operators a chance to promote their package or experience through promotional postcards which will be produced as a handout at the Expo. Packages or experiences must meet the criteria set by the association. Besides having your experience or product listed on the promotional postcard, the information will also be displayed on cbisland.com. The fee to take part in this promotion is $100.00 and if interested in taking part in this offer you should contact DCBA as soon as possible; space is limited. To take part in this promotional venture or to find out more on the criteria for your experience or package, please contact Caroline at caroline@dcba.ca or call 1-902-539-4593. The Saltscapes Travel Expo which takes place at Exihabition Park in Halifax is an excellent promotional opportunity to showcase what Cape Breton has to offer to the Atlantic Canada Market.

Richmond tourism operators and businesses from the St. Peter's area, as well as the Tourism and Economic Development Department for the Municipality, took the opportunity this past holiday season to promote the Village of St. Peter's with the Festive Moments Segments which aired 10 times a day for 18 days on both The Eagle and The Giant Radio stations out of Sydney. This marketing program highlighted the businesses in the Village of St. Peter's as a must visit area on the island. This was an exceptional opportunity to promote what the area has to offer to potentional visitors.

Richmond County's Winter Festival will be hosting some great outdoor events. One of these will be the Coastal Riders ATV Winter Festival Rally in L'Ardoise on Saturday, February 4th. The activities will include Winterfest Breakfast from 7-10am at the L'Ardoise Men's Club. Registration which is open to everyone, will take place at the L'Ardoise Community Centre from 8-9:45am. Registration fee: $20.00 for 3 tickets per Bike and any additional passenger who wants to pay the registration fee will also receive 3 tickets to be eligible for the prize draws which will take place at 5pm. The Rally will begin at 10am sharp, beginning at the L'Ardoise Community Centre and ending at the L'Ardoise Community Centre. There will be a Fish Cake & Bean Supper from:4-6:30pm with a social with taped music to take place from 4pm until 6:30pm. For information on the following events: Breakfast-Nils Adamsson 587-2778, Rally-Carolyn Cook 587-2422-please note the number 587-2263 listed in the Reflections of Richmond Winter Edition was a mistake. And Supper - Lillie Spray 587-2077.

Geocaching Event To Be Held at Fortress Of Louisbourg

Information has just arrived at my desk from Laurel Martell from the Fortress of Louisbourg, on a geocaching and showshoeing event that will be taking place at the Fortress on February 19th. If you enjoy geocaching and showshoes , this event will be perfect for you.

Cache Us If You Can—On Snowshoes!

Sunday, 19 February 2012 - 10 a.m.
Join us for our second annual geocaching event at the Fortress of
Louisbourg National Historic Site as we celebrate Heritage Day.
An introduction to geocaching and snowshoeing will be available for
beginners.
Registration will take place at 10 a.m. in the McLennan Centre (formerly
the Museum). Coffee and tea will be available.Entrance fees: Adult: $7.50, Senior:$6.05, Youth: $3.65, Family/Group $18.10
This event is hosted by the Atlantic Canada Geocaching Association,
Fortress Louisbourg Association and Parks Canada.

For more information, please visit the Atlantic Canada Geocaching
Association Web site or call 902-733-3552.



Trouvez-les, si vous en êtes capable—en raquettes!
Le dimanche 19 février 2012 - 10 h
Joignez-vous à nous lors de notre 2e événement annuel de géocachette au
lieu historique national de la Forteresse-de-Louisbourg et célébrez avec
nous la Fête du patrimoine!
Une introduction à la géocachette et à la raquette sera disponible pour les
débutants.
Inscription à 10 h au centre McLennan (autrefois le musée). Café et thé
offerts.
Cet événement vous est présenté grâce à Atlantic Canada Geocaching
Association, l’Association de la Forteresse-de-Louisbourg et Parcs Canada.

Pour plus de renseignements, visitez le site Web Atlantic Canada Geocaching
Association (en anglais seulement) ou téléphonez au 902-733-3552.

Laurel Martell
Professional Development Facilitator | Animatrice-formatrice en
perfectionnement professionel
Parks Canada | Parc Canada
259 Park Service Road, Louisbourg NS B1C 2L2 | 259 chemin Park Service,
Louisbourg N-É B1C 2L2
Tel | Tél: 902 733-3552
Fax | Télécopieur: 902 733-3543
laurel.martell@pc.gc.ca
Government of Canada/Gouvernement de Canada

100 years, Come Celebrate! | 100 ans, Soyez de la fête!

Highland Dancing Starts Up For Winter Program in Richmond County

The holiday break is over and it is great to have the Winter classes for Highland Dancing start up again. This is an excellent program for children interested in learning the Celtic tradition of highland dancing, it will run for 7 weeks starting January 25th. The program is ran through the Department of Recreation for the County of Richmond County, and is held at the St. Peter's Fire Hall on Wednesday afternoons.It will run from 3:30-4:30pm for children ages 5-6 years and from 4:30 - 5:30pm for children 7 years and up. The Course fee is $55.00 and the instructor is Micayla Matthews of Scottish Dance Teacher's Alliance. If you are interested in having a child begin classes call the Richmond County Municipal Office at 226-2400 and ask to speak to the staff of the Recreation Department and they will be happy to give you the registration information.

Here is an update that I received from Jennifer Landry, Instructor of Highland Dance in St. Peter's. She also has given some information on the Celtic workshops being held on March 16th and 17th in Westmount.



Hi Everyone!


Reminder that dancing begins next Wednesday with Micayla Matthews!

Also, see below for Celtic workshops coming up March 16-17 in Westmount if you are interested! There is a facebook page for info on this: http://www.facebook.com/events/285389228184674/ The facebook page shows the format for the days. Pass it on to anyone who may be interested.

Thanks
Jennifer
Highland Dance Instructor
St. Peter's




CELTIC WORKSHOPS

Dates: Friday, March 16th & Saturday, March 17th
Location: 95 Sunnydale Drive, Westmount

AM Sessions: 9:00-12:30 (BEGINNER LEVEL)
PM Sessions 1:00-4:30 (INTERMEDIATE LEVEL)

This 2-Day workshop will offer students a ‘taste’ of Celtic Culture

***Beginners are welcome***

We would love for you to come and try this out~!

*Students Ages 5 to 20 years

Courses Offered:

Bagpipes

Pipe Band Drumming

Highland Dance

Step Dance

Fiddle

*Gaelic Song*

*All students will learn a fun Gaelic Song to end their morning or afternoon sessions*

Registration: ONLINE

workshop.macarthurdance.com

Student Fee: $100.00

*EARLY Registration Before February 15th = $10.00 off ($90.00 total)

Fees Include:

*2-Day Workshop = 3 choices per day, plus 1 Gaelic Song Class

(Total = 8 classes over the 2 days)

*Snacks

*Family Ceilidh

*Instructor Intro Performance Daily

This is an affordable and fun way to have your child spend their March Break, while learning and getting a taste of the Celtic Culture of Nova Scotia. If this is successful, there will be classes continued in workshop formats for interested students.

For more information, contact: kelly@macarthurdance.com

Tourism in Richmond County

It is promising to see Cape Breton continue to create attention about all the island has to offer. This time the focus is drawn to our islands surfing location Point Michaud Beach, located on the Fleur de Lis Trail. Michelle Richards, professional surfer and Surf Instructor for the Richmond County Recreational Department’s Summer Surf Program at Point Michaud, as well as the organizer for the Point Michaud Surf Classic & Expo, won 1st place and $300 from surf-forecast.com in their Regional Surf Competition. In this competition, worldwide submissions describing local surf break were received and reviewed. Finally they selected Richards' description about Point Michaud Beach. Runner ups in the competition were: Jack Heckerman - Japan (Okinawa) , Oliver Treetz - Taiwan (North Coast), Giovanni Mancuso - Brazil (Rio Grande Do Sul), Chip Bissell - Mexico (Baja Sur), Salvador Jimenez de la Nuez - Spain (Gran Canaria). The new surf region pages will be available soon on Surf Report, Surf Forecast, www.surf-forecast.com. This promotion of our area's surfing is sure to draw surfers from around our country and beyond to our area to try our surf for themselves.

This was definitely the great period for Point Michaud Surfing to draw attention to our area. This information came to me from Richards’ Facebook page Surf Point Michaud which is very popular with surfers across Canada and the US. Richards posted: "Surf's Up at Point Michaud", by Daniel Bonner. The article can be found on page 8 of Sport Nova Scotia's quarterly newsletter. The Sport Quarterly, highlights issues in our sport community, local sport participants and organizers who are worthy of recognition, and programs that are working to improve Nova Scotia's sport system." http://www.sportnovascotia.ca/Portals/0/docs/pubs/sportq/December_2011.pdf.

On the entertainment scene: On Saturday January 21st, there will be a Pub & Trivia Night at The Tara Lynne Community Centre in River Bourgeois starting at 8pm. The Richmond County Winter Festival will begin January 23rd and run until February 26th. Some of the events include Farm Tales Reading Circles, this is a 12 week program will begin mid-January and is sponsored by the Richmond Literacy Network for more information contact Sarah Nettleton at 226-0383. On Sunday, January 22nd from 1:30pm until 3:30pm Storytelling at the Park will take place at the Lennox Passage Provincial Park in Martinique for information contact Marg Herdman at 226-2440. Center La Picasse in Petit de Grat will host a kids dance for ages 12 and under from 6:30pm until 8:30pm and a Teen dance from 9pm until 11pm on January 25th. For more information contact Dora at 226-0149. A Soup Luncheon will take place at the Fourchu Community Hall on January 28 from 11am until 1pm. Until next week, have fun exploring Richmond.

Wildfire Pottery and Books Open Fridays from 1-5pm For The Winter Months

Attention, good news for all those who enjoy an afternoon of reading. This information has just arrived at my desk and I know you will find it of interest. If you enjoy sitting in front of the fireplace and reading a great book while sipping a cup of coffee as much as I do, then this may be of interest to you.

Wildfire Pottery and Books Open Fridays from 1-5,‏

Hi and Happy New Year!


I'll be opening up the bookstore and pottery shop Friday afternoons again for the winter starting this Friday, January 20th from 1-5.
There are lots of new titles on the shelves, cappuccinos and good coffee (by donation) and a nice big warm fireplace in the book room.

The parking area will be partly sanded, but it might be a good idea to bring your grippers as it tends to get icy in spots.

Look forward to seeing you and if you are looking for any titles in particular just give me a call,

Cheers,
Sarah

Wildfire Pottery and Books
Open Fridays from 1-5,

44556 Cabot Trail
H: 929-2391
Shop: 929-2315
www.zibbet.com/wildfirepottery
www.zibbet.com/theartfulbadger

Change of Time For The Free Afternoon of Games at Centre La Picasse

This notice has just come to my attention and so I am passing it along to all my followers who may be planning to attend. The Correct time for the childrens events will be 6 to 7:30pm on February 8th at Centre La Picasse in Petit de Grat.


NOTE: changement d'heure / Change of time‏

Il y aura une après-midi de jeux gratuit pour les enfants de 12 ans et moins au Centre La Picasse, mercredi le 8 février de 18h à 19h30. Il va avoir des prix à gagner, venez avoir du fun. There will be a FREE afternoon of games for children 12 and under at La Picasse, Wednesday February 8th from 6 to 7:30 pm, there will also be prizes to win so come have fun.

-------------------------------------

Dora Samson-Boudreau

Assistante à la programmation

La Picasse, centre communautaire culturel

3435 Route 206 C. P. 70 Petit de Grat

Isle Madame, Nouvelle-Écosse B0E 2L0

Tél: 902-226-0149 Téléc: 902-226-0549

www.lapicasse.ca

Coastal Riders ATV Club Winter Festival Rally

Winter Festival ATV Events in Richmond County includes ATV Rally in L'Ardoise. What a great way to get out in the fresh air and view the great scenery in Richmond, while having lots of fun with friends. Come join in the fun during Richmond County's Winter Festival.

Coastal Riders ATV Club Winter Festival Rally

Date: Saturday February 4th.

Winterfest Breakfast 7-10am at the L'Ardoise Men's Club - cost $7.00

Place: L'Ardoise Community Centre

Registration: 8-9:45am Open to Everyone

Registration fee: $20.00 for 3 tickets per Bike and any additional passenger who wants to pay the registration fee will also receive 3 tickets to be eligible for the prize draws.
Ticket draws will be made at 5pm.

Rally Start Time: 10am sharp beginning at the L'Ardoise Community Centre and ending at the L'Ardoise Community Centre.

Fish Cake & Bean Supper (Sponsored by L'Ardoise Seniors Jolly Club):4-6:30pm

Social with taped music will take place starting at 4pm until 6:30pm

For information on the following events:

Breakfast-Nils Adamsson 587-2778

Rally-Carolyn Cook 587-2422-please note the number 587-2263 listed in the Reflections of Richmond Winter Edition was a mistake, Correct number is 587-2422.

Supper- Lillie Spray 587-2077

If you need accommodation for this event:

Check accommodations 10 Minutes away from L'Ardoise

The Bras d'Or Lakes Inn in St. Peter's 535-2200

MacDonald Country Inn in St. Peter's-535-2997

2nd Annual Isle Madame ATV Riders Winter Festival Rally

Attention all ATV Riders, the 2nd Annual Winter Festival Rally Poker Run will be taking place in Isle Madame on February 11th. If you enjoy this exciting outdoor activity, you will definitely not want to miss this run. Great prizes, great food and lots of fun! The information on the Poker Run Event is listed below.

The 2nd Annual Isle Madame ATV Riders Winter Festival Rally

Date: February 11th, 2012

Registration time : 9:30am - 11am at the Rocky Bay Hall in Rocky Bay

Fee: 25$ per poker hand/meal

Meal: Spaghetti Supper

1st Prize: trip for 2 to Dominican Republic

2nd Prize: $300

3rd Prize: $200

4th Prize : $100

* Lots of door prizes to be given away! There will be hot dogs and drinks for sale on the trail. All riders must wear proper riding gear and follow all OHV rules.

Accomadations available at:L'Auberge Acadienne: 226-2200

Vina Motel: 226-2662

Contact Tony Pierce @ 226-9601 for more information

MORE DETAILS TO FOLLOW--

Doug MacPhee and Mario Colosimo Perform at The St. Ann's Bay United Church

Looking for something to do on a Friday evening. Finding the dark nights long and you would like to get out with some of your friends for some great music. I have just the event to fill your needs. On January 20th, the St. Ann’s Bay United Church will present the excellent entertainment of Doug MacPhee and Mario Colosimo.

A Dinner and Musical Evening with Doug MacPhee and Mario Colosimo.
St. Ann's Bay United Church presents two of Cape Breton's foremost entertainers.

The evening of music will take place in the tea room at St. Ann’s Bay United Church located at 46715 Cabot Trail, Indian Brook, Cape Breton. Doors open at 5:30 pm.

A delicious hot roast beef dinner will be served at 6 pm. Performance starts at 7:00 pm. Admission: Dinner and Entertainment. $25.00.Seating is limited. Please call 929-2212 to reserve your place by Wed. Jan. 18 2011. Book your tickets now, many have already been reserved,so don't wait reserve your tickets now and then just pay at the door the day of the dinner and show.

Entertainers:
Doug MacPhee comes from a family steeped in the traditional music of Cape Breton Island. He has performed with all the great fiddlers of Cape Breton over the years and has toured extensively throughout Canada, the United States, Scotland, and Europe. Doug was invested as a Member of the Order of Canada in 2008.

Mario Colosimo has been providing piano accompaniment to island musicians for over 30years. Although classically trained in piano, he plays every style of music from Celtic to Swing. He has lent his piano, guitar and vocal talents to many local bands and artists. Mario operates a music studio in Dominion where he teaches guitar, fiddle, piano and piano accompaniment. He has been sharing his passion for music with his students for over 25 years.

Information For All Those Wanting To Promote Their Tourism Business At Saltscapes This Year

Attention all tourism operators on Cape Breton Island, this information has come to my desk from the desk of Destination Cape Breton Association. With Saltscapes quickly approaching it is important to make decisions on where you want to market your business for the upcoming season. This information from DCBA may be just what you were waiting for and so I want to pass it along to my followers as quickly as possible.


Saltscapes East Coast Expo 2012

In October 2012, Destination Cape Breton Association (DCBA) engaged in discussion with Saltscapes participants who had previously attended the expo as a Cape Breton consortium. The outcome of these discussions and the survey results completed post the 2011 Expo, indicated that Cape Breton Island will be taking a different direction this year. DCBA will be attending the 2012 this year’s show with a condensed presence and a clear focus on selling Cape Breton as a vacation destination for this tourism season. We will be booking space under DCBA and would like to offer choice placement for anyone attending the show to be located next to the Cape Breton Island booth spaces. For anyone attending this year’s Expo and are interested in having a space next to DCBA, please let us know prior to January 20th and we will confirm your space preference with Saltscapes Expo organizers. DCBA space is 20 X 30.

DCBA will have staff and three visitor information counselors in the booth and would like to extend an invitation to any animators from other organizations to take part in the Cape Breton display at no charge. Travel costs would need to be covered by each individual.

Additionally, DCBA is offering industry a chance to promote your package and or experience through post cards that will be produced as a handout at the Expo. The packages and/or experience must meet the criteria listed below. These will also be listed on cbisland.com. The fee to take part in this promotion is $100.00 and space is limited. Anyone wanting to take part please contact Caroline at caroline@dcba.ca or 1-902-539-4593

Thank you


Packaging Details Required
•Package title
•25-word description
•1 small (stamp size)photo or logo
•The dates during which this package is availablemust be stated
•There must be one point of purchase for the guest to book all components of the package
•The cancellation and refund policy must be included
•the package description must explicitly state what is included in the package (i.e. # of days/nights, # of meals, # of tickets/admissions, etc.)
•What is not included in package(such as taxes and gratuities)
•Package price must be included

Experience Details Required

•Experience title
•Be well themed – 25-word description (what makes this experience unique?) connecting to one or more of the tourism core experiences culture, history, seacoast, urban, and food and wine) and with a title to reflect the theme;
•Engage the visitor through hands-on activities which allow them to become an active participant in the activity, not just an observer, and provides the visitor with exclusive or behind-the-scenes access to something;
•Engage as many of the five senses as possible;
•Where possible, integrate local food and other elements which can add to the WOW of the experience.
•Be purchasable - visitors must be able to purchase the experience for a set price;
•Be available a minimum of 4 weeks throughout the year.

Winter Classes At The Gaelic College In Cape Breton

Leasanan A' Gheamhraidh (Winter Classes)A'Cholaisde Ghàidhlig will be offering a 10-week session of Winter Classes for adults and children.

Lessons will begin on Thursday evening, January 19th and run through until March 22nd, 2012. Price is $120 for a 10 week Registration ($12/lesson). Children must be 7 years of age to register. We encourage pre-registration for the 10 weeks. Course information is as follows:

Time:6:30PM
Beginner Fiddle (must bring your own fiddle)

Beginner StepDancing (no clickers please)

Beginner Guitar (must bring your own guitar)

Gaidhlig aig Baile (GAB Immersion methodology / All levels)

Time:7:15PM

Intermediate Fiddle

Intermediate StepDancing

Intermediate Guitar

Oran Gàidhlig (Gaelic Song)

Instructors:Gaelic: Emily MacKinnon

Fiddle: Boyd MacNeil and Dawn Beaton

Step-Dancing: Lisa MacNeil and Margie Beaton

Guitar: Paul MacDonald

Winter Gaelic Weekend

February 24 - 26, 2012

A Weekend of GAB Immersion Instruction■All With A "Winter" Theme

■All Levels Of Instruction
■Song Workshops
■Traditional Winter Supper
■Gaelic House-Ceilidh
■Guest Speaker
■Story-Telling Session With English Translation
■Participants can choose to live in for the weekend or attend as a day student. Students traveling from a distance can also arrange to stay over Friday evening. Additional fees will apply.

March Break Fun Camp (General Info)MARCH 9, 10, 11, 12, 2012

The Gaelic College in St. Ann's will be conducting its’ March Break Workshop beginning Friday, March 9th.. Registration is Friday evening and classes will run on Saturday, Sunday and Monday. For more information visit www.gaeliccollege.edu or email: education@gaeliccollege.edu or phone (902) 295-3411 ext. 222

Index

To quickly navigate our March Break Workshop page, please go to the website and click on the links.

Disciplines, Levels & Instructors

Discipline

Levels

Instructor(s)

Fiddle

F1,F2,F3,F4,F5

Shelly Campbell, Dave MacIsaac

Gaelic Song

All levels

Joanne Rankin MacIntyre, Bernard Cameron

Step/Square-Dancing

S2,S3,S5

Melanie Craig MacDonald

Cape Breton Piano

P5,P4,P3

Susan MacLean

Cape Breton Piping

BP3,BP4,BP5

Kenneth MacKenzie, Paul K. MacNeil

Guitar Accompaniment

G4,G3

Dave MacIsaac

GAB 1/GAB 2

See Guidelines

Joanne Rankin MacIntyre, Bernard Cameron

Highland Dance

H5, H4, H3, H2, H1

Kelly MacArthur

Gaelic Drama

See Guidelines

Joanne Rankin MacIntyre, Bernard Cameron


Tracey MacNeil

Director of Education & Programming
A'Cholaisde Ghàidhlig / The Gaelic College
P.O. Box 80, Englishtown, NS
B0C 1H0
1(902) 295-3411 ext. 222

View of Richmond

Cape Breton continues to create attention about all this great island has to offer. This time the focus is drawn to our excellent surfing location Point Michaud, located on the Fleur de Lis Trail in Richmond County. Michelle Richards, professional surfer and Surf Instructor for the Richmond County Recreational Department’s Summer Surf Program at Point Michaud, as well as the organizer for the Point Michaud Surf Classic & Expo, won 1st place and $300 from surf-forecast.com in their Regional Surf Competition. In this competition, worldwide submissions describing local surf break were received and reviewed. Finally they selected Richards about Point Michaud Beach. Runner ups in the competition were: Jack Heckerman - Japan (Okinawa) , Oliver Treetz - Taiwan (North Coast), Giovanni Mancuso - Brazil (Rio Grande Do Sul), Chip Bissell - Mexico (Baja Sur), Salvador Jimenez de la Nuez - Spain (Gran Canaria). The new surf region pages will be available soon on Surf Report, Surf Forecast, www.surf-forecast.com.

Still more excellent promotion for Point Michaud Surfing. This information came to me from Richards’ Facebook page Surf Point Michaud which is very popular with surfers across the country. Richards posted: "Surf's Up at Point Michaud", by Daniel Bonner. Found on page 8 of Sport Nova Scotia's quarterly newsletter. The Sport Quarterly, highlights issues in our sport community, local sport participants and organizers who are worthy of recognition, and programs that are working to improve Nova Scotia's sport system." http://www.sportnovascotia.ca/Portals/0/docs/pubs/sportq/December_2011.pdf.

On the entertainment scene: there will be a Variety Concert at The Lakeside Community Centre in Sampsonville on January 15th, at 2pm. Also on the 15th there will be a merchandise bingo held at the Fourchu Hall starting at 2pm. On Saturday January 21st, there will be a Pub & Trivia Night at The Tara Lynne Community Centre in River Bourgeois starting at 8pm.

Tourism In Richmond County

With the holiday season behind us, we now look towards the new year and all it has to offer in Richmond County. There is a lot to do around the area. There will be a Variety Concert at the Lakeside Community Centre in Hall starting at 2pm. On January 21st. There will be a Pub & Trivia Night held at the Tara Lynne Community Centre in River Bourgeois starting at 8pm. With the cooler weather arriving, it is a perfect time to get out and do a little hiking around the area; take advantage of the St. Peter's Old Railroad Bed Trail running along the bay or enjoy a beautiful walk on the trails in Battery Provincial Park. It is also wonderful experience to take in the beauty of the scenery as you walk along the shorelines at the Grand Greve, Point Michaud or Pondville Beaches.

The Richmond County Literacy Network has been chosen as one of the monthly entries for the Bluenose Cash for Your Cause. Their website at www.bluenose-insurance.ns.ca is now ready to accept votes. The organization with the highest number of votes at the end of the month will receive $1000.00. This is a great way to show our support for the literacy network in Richmond County, so log on and give them your vote. You can vote once per day ... so vote often! Please encourage your friends to vote as well; reach out to them on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube or all your other on-line communities. LITERACY MATTERS, so lets do our part to assist this worthy cause.

St.Peter`s and area tourism operators and businesses along with the Richmond County Municipality’s Economic Development Department took the opportunity to promote the village of St. Peter`s through a cooperative promotional program which was offer to the village by The Eagle Radio Station’s Promotions Department from Sydney. The Festive Moments segements which ran 10 times a day on both the Eagle and Giant FM radio stations over the holidays. The beautifully detailed segments drew quite a bit of attention from the listening audience about the village of St. Peter’s. The segments which ran for 18 days are sure to be a great promotional opportunity to inform the public about what can be found in our area for shopping, restaurants and attractions not only over the holidays but year round. There are talks of doing a similar promotion for the area in the Spring of 2012. Until next week, have enjoy this beautiful area we live in.

Point Michaud Draws Positive Attention.

I am ecstatic with all the great publicity Cape Breton continues to create about all this great island has to offer. This time the focus is drawn to our excellent surfing location Point Michaud, located on the Fleur de Lis Trail in Richmond County.
The following information has just arrived at my desk from Michelle Richards, professional surfer and Surf Instructor for the Richmond County Recreational Departments Summer Surf Program at Point Michaud, as well as the organizer for the Point Michaud Surf Classic & Expo. Michelle informed me that she entered the competition which drew entries world wide describing the local surf break. Michelle is an excellent promoter for Richmond County as a surfing destination and also has a very popular facebook site, SurfPointMichaud, which keeps surfers up on current surf happenings. Although the official announcement about the win has not yet been released to the media, I couldn't wait to share this news with my followers.
This is what Michelle had to say:

"Wow!! Won 1st place and $300 from surf-forecast.com in their Regional Surf Competition. World wide submissions describing your local surf break were received and reviewed. Finally they narrowed it down to mine about Point Michaud Beach, Cape Breton Island. Here are the runner ups: Jack Heckerman - Japan (Okinawa) , Oliver Treetz - Taiwan (North Coast), Giovanni Mancuso - Brazil (Rio Grande Do Sul), Chip Bissell - Mexico (Baja Sur), Salvador Jimenez de la Nuez - Spain (Gran Canaria)"

The new surf region pages will be available soon.
Surf Report, Surf Forecast, Surfing
www.surf-forecast.com

Still more excellent promotion for Point Michaud Surfing. This information came to me from Michelle's facebook page and I couldn't be more please with the news.

"Surf's Up At Point Michaud", by Daniel Bonner. Found on page 8 of Sport Nova Scotia's quarterly newsletter. The Sport Quarterly, highlights issues in our sport community, local sport participants and organizers who are worthy of recognition, and programs that are working to improve Nova Scotia's sport system."

http://www.sportnovascotia.ca/Portals/0/docs/pubs/sportq/December_2011.pdf
www.sportnovascotia.ca

USA Today Names Cabot Shore's Wilderness Resort As One of The Top 3 Hotels in Nova Scotia

I would like to extend my congratulations to the Cabot Shore's Wilderness Resort in Indian Brook, located on the Cabot Trail, on being named as one of the Top Three Hotels in Nova Scotia along with The Prince George Hotel located in Nova Scotia's Capital Halifax and The Pictou Lodge located on The Northcumberland Shore and being the only one named in Cape Breton, by USA Today. Sara Rankin, Marketing Coordinator for the Cabot Shore's Resort contacted me with the great news and I want to pass this information along to all my followers.

Ms Rankin states "We recently received some exciting news from USA Today who had selected us as one of the top 3 Hotels in Nova Scotia and we also were the only Hotel selected in Cape Breton. The Chronicle Herald picked up our story yesterday and we have also have been interviewed by local radio stations".

This is what USA Today had to say about Cabot Shores:

"Cabot Shores, on the island of Cape Breton, is a unique and romantic option for visitors. It received four out of five stars on TripAdvisor.com. Situated on 55 acres, Cabot Shores offers ocean views from its lodge, private chalets and farmhouse. The hotel, which prides itself on eco-tourism, is a place to go for bird-watching, kayaking and canoeing, or simply for peace and quiet. It is also very to close to the famed Buddhist Gampo Abbey. The lodge, which has six bedrooms, offers a queen or double bed, private bath and television. The chalets, which can sleep two to eight people, provide a private way to enjoy the Nova Scotia wilderness. Cabot Shores 30 Buchanan Dr. Englishtown, Nova Scotia B0C1H0 902-929-2584 cabotshores.com"

To read what the Chronicle Herald had to say in it article go to this site:
http://thechronicleherald.ca/business/48430-top-three-ranking-takes-cabot-shores-resort-surprise

It is so exciting to continue to see Cape Breton entrepreneurs receive well deserved recognition for their hard work and continued dedication.

Great Winter Courses At Cape Breton Craft & Design

Looking for something to do over the winter months? Check out this great list of programs at the Centre for Crafts & Designs in Sydney. This information has just come to my attention and I want to pass it along.



Winter Courses and Workshops

Winter courses and workshops at Cape Breton Centre for Craft and Design are scheduled to begin the week of January 30. Registration for members is now open and continues until January 6. General registration for non members begins January 9. Registration for programs continues until January 27. However, space is limited so students are urged to sign up early. Watch the Centre’s website for the complete program or contact the Centre to receive a copy. Phone 902.539.7491 ext 111 or email tammy@capebretoncraft.com.

How 2 Tuesdays

How 2 Tuesdays continues this month with Janet Dawson, weaver and owner of The Bobbin Tree. Janet will be in our main gallery on Tuesday, January 10th from 12:15 – 12:45 giving a demonstration on her loom. Come on into the Centre next week and take a craft break with Janet. For more information on How 2 Tuesdays, contact Tim at 539.7491 ext 116

Make Art Part of YOUR New Year's Resolution

I resolve to expand my horizons. Was that your New Year's resolution? Make good by enrolling in one of more than 85 courses offered through NSCAD's School of Extended Studies this winter.


Calls for Entry

Art Market - Art & Craft Sale
Calgary Telus Convention Centre
Now in its 26th year, this juried Art Market will be held November 15-18, and is currently accepting applications for participation. Booth assignment will take place on April 1, so it is highly recommended to apply early. Please visit their website for application forms and further information.

Avondale Art Fair
DEADLINE: March 15
Newport Landing Waterfront Park
Avondale, NS
For more information regarding this open air fair, to be held on June 16, please visit their website.

WinSport Canada
DEADLINE: January 25
The Canadian Winter Sport Institute is seeking expressions of interest from qualified artists who are passionate about exploring the link between sport and art in a new, high performance sport venue, to create two site specific works of art. For the complete call, including budget and site plans, please visit the WinSport website.

Kids and Teen Dance in Petit de Grat

The holidays are behind us but there is still fun to be had. If you received some brand new shoes for Christmas and would like to try them out on the dance floor, I have an event that you will definitely want to attend. This information has just come to my desk from La Picasse, check it out!

Danse d’enfants et jeunes mercredi le 25 janvier 2012 pour les 12 ans et moins de 6h30 à 8h30 & les jeunes de 13 à 18 ans de 9h à 11h à La Picasse. Le coût est 5$. Musique enregistré avec lumières ainsi que les services de cantine disponible. NB : Les sacs à dos & les sacoches sont INTERDIT. Les manteaux seront affiché sur les supports dans le couloir donc La Picasse n’est pas responsable pour les items perdus.

DANCE for Kids and Teens, Wednesday January 25th 2012. Kids under 12 dance is from 6:30 to 8:30 pm and the teen dance 13 to 18 years old is from 9 to 11 pm. Price is $5 each. Music by a DJ and canteen services will be available. NB: Back packs and purses are NOT ALLOWED. Jackets will be put on hangers in the hallway therefore La Picasse IS NOT responsible for any lost items.
----------------------------

Dora Samson-Boudreau

Assistante à la programmation

La Picasse, centre communautaire culturel

3435 Route 206 C. P. 70 Petit de Grat

Isle Madame, Nouvelle-Écosse B0E 2L0

Tél: 902-226-0149 Téléc: 902-226-0549

www.lapicasse.ca

Richmond Literacy Asks For Your Vote

This information has just come to my desk from Millie Hatt, Network Coordinator of the Richmond Literacy Network in Richmond County and they need our help. It only takes a few minutes to place your vote and it would be helping a very important organization in our County. In a day and age where funding is hard to get, lets do our part and for the literacy Network to win $1000.00 to help with their programs.


The Richmond County Literacy Network has been chosen as one of the monthly entries for the Bluenose Cash for Your Cause. Their website at www.bluenose-insurance.ns.ca is now ready to accept votes. The organization with the highest number of votes at the end of the month will receive $1000.00. We encouarge you to support the cause of literacy in Richmond County by logging on and giving us your vote. You can vote once per day ... so vote often! Please encourage your friends to vote as well; reach out to them on Facebook, Twitter, You Tube or all your other on-line communities. LITERACY MATTERS
Thanking everyone in advance for your support and vote!
Millie

Millie Hatt
Network Coordinator
Richmond County Literacy Network
708 Veterans Memorial Drive, P.O. Box 69
Arichat,NS B0E 1A0

Attention All Festival Organizers

If your Community Festival Committee has not yet updated its information on the Nova Scotia Tourism website, I would advise you to do it as soon as possible. This is a free advertisement opportunity for your festival and it is one of the most checked websites by visitors coming to the area. Your festival's information should have been updated on this site in order to have been included in this years Doers and Dreamers Festivals and Events Guide. Here is the website to go to register your event.
http://www.gov.ns.ca/econ/tourism/festivals-events/