Four Nova Scotian communities will be awarded this year’s Lieutenant Governor’s Community Spirit Award in recognition for exemplary civic and community spirit.
This winter, Nova Scotians were asked to share stories of community engagement and extraordinary service. The four communities being recognized in 2016 are:
— New Ross, Lunenburg Co.
— Gabarus, Cape Breton Regional Municipality
— New Glasgow
— Upper Hammonds Plains, Halifax Regional Municipality
“I am pleased to hear of the four communities that are being recognized for their outstanding spirit and I am sure that selecting the winners from all of the exceptional entries was not an easy task,” said Lt.-Gov. J.J. Grant. “I extend my sincere congratulations and I look forward to visiting each winning community over the course of the summer to present the award.”
Celebrating the 200th anniversary of New Ross this year, Debbie Reeves’ application included stories of celebrating heritage, cultural learning and awareness, strong citizen involvement and pride.
“The 200th anniversary celebration is a time to recognize the effort of the volunteer groups and the success of New Ross,” said Ms. Reeves. “The spirit of the community outshines our reputation as a hidden gem, and it’s time to share the spirit and reveal the gem.”
Florence Nygaard applied on behalf of Friends of Gabarus in partnership with several community organizations. The application told stories of a small seaside community with a lot of heart committed to preserving and sharing their 300-year history.
“In Gabarus we get things done,” said Ms. Nygaard. “People of all ages, heritage and cultures work together for our active fishing village, and we have done it for 300 years.”
The application from the Town of New Glasgow highlighted the community’s wealth of activities and celebrations, a strong focus on fostering diversity and community development.
“This prestigious award is a great testament to the community pride, talents, engagement and hard work of the people of New Glasgow,” said New Glasgow Mayor Barrie MacMillan. “We are proud to have a town that has vibrant arts, music, sports and heritage while also a strong commitment towards healthy and active living, protecting the environment, supporting local and welcoming newcomers.”
Gina Jones-Wilson, of the Upper Hammonds Plains Community Development Association, submitted an application that told of an African-Nova Scotian community rich in history, tradition and cultural heritage, whose greatest strength is working together.
“As a community of approximately 300 residents we have in the past and present made major contributions impacting not only our community but others within the municipality, province, national and global communities,” said Ms. Jones-Wilson. “These contributions are what make us proud to be residents of this small community.”
Communities will be honoured at upcoming celebrations. Lt.-Gov. Grant will attend the festivities to present an original piece of Nova Scotian Crystal etched with a representation of each community’s story.
For more information visit http://communityspiritaward.ca .
Source: Release