Nova Scotia Vacation Rentals Blog

Yarmouth airport to launch new air service to Portland on March 15

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 18:37:00 +0000

From the Yarmouth County Vanguard
The Yarmouth International Airport Corporation (YIAC) has announced it partnership with Twin Cities Air Service of Auburn, Maine, to offer regular air service between Yarmouth and Portland, Maine.

Beginning March 15, 2010, air travellers can take advantage of weekly non-stop flights between the two destinations.

The air service will offer scheduled flights each Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Round-trip flights start at $400 per person, plus taxes.

The company will be flying a seven-passenger Cessna 402C.

Travellers to Portland will have the opportunity to make many connections into larger U.S. centres, the company says.(You can visit their website at www.flycharter.com).

“Restoring regular air service to Portland is great news for Yarmouth, the region and the province, and demonstrates our commitment to making Yarmouth International Airport a viable air transportation hub in southwestern Nova Scotia,” said David Rankin, executive director, Yarmouth International Airport Corporation (YIAC).

“After a slight interruption in service, we’ve found an excellent partner in Twin Cities Air Service, who share our view of the economic feasibility of the Yarmouth to Portland air route.”

“As a fixed-based, full-service air carrier, the Yarmouth-to-Portland route fits perfectly with our business model,” adds Nate Humphrey, president of Twin Cities Air Service. “Having been a charter company for years, customers will enjoy the benefit of our flexibility in scheduling flights. Passengers will also enjoy the efficiencies and comforts of our modern aircraft. We’re thrilled to be working with YIAC, and are certain this partnership will create even more opportunities going forward.”

Humphrey says the company actually had bid on the air service to Portland at the same time Quebec-based Starlink had, but Starlink had been the successful bidder.

He feels one reason why they will succeed where Starlink didn't is because the aircraft Starlink was using wasn't the right one for the service.

The Portland International Jetport also welcomes announcement of this new service.

“Regular air service between Yarmouth and Portland will appeal to both business and leisure passengers and strengthens the already strong connection between Nova Scotia and Maine,” notes Paul Bradbury, director of the Portland International Jetport. “Both the Jetport and Yarmouth International offer excellent facilities, competitive fares and convenience for travellers on both sides of the border.”

For further information on the Yarmouth to Portland air service, including flight schedules and fares, visit www.yarmouthairport.ca.

The air service comes on the heels of a failed attempt at air service last year. Starlink Aviation was flying between Portland and Yarmouth and Halifax and Yarmouth. The company suspended its air service at the start of December after burning through a fund meant to help it stay in operation. The fund was supposed to last five years but only lasted nine months.

PC caucus members heading to Ottawa to try and save ferry service for 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 13:37:00 +0000

From the Yarmouth County Vanguard

Progressive Conservative caucus members are heading to Ottawa next week in what may be a last-ditch effort to ensure there is ferry service between Yarmouth and Maine during the 2010 tourist season.
Argyle MLA Chris d'Entremont says time is running out for the provincial government to provide Bay Ferries Ltd. with a subsidy that would allow the ferry to resume crossings between Yarmouth and Portland and Bar Harbour, Maine.
"The premier has stated that the decision to discontinue funding has been made and it is not going to be revisited," d'Entremont said Thursday. "We aretaking the initiative to work with the federal government to save hundreds of jobs and intervene before Nova Scotia loses millions of dollars in tourism revenue."
Cape Breton North MLA Cecil Clarke will lead the delegation and says the trip is a precursor to the opening of the 61st General Assembly in Nova Scotia on March 25. The MLAs are working with West Nova MP Greg Kerr to schedule meetings with available ministers on the future of the ferry.
The delegation will seek to find ways for the federal government to partner with the community, thus enabling the province to get the ferry service back.
"The Nova Scotia government is not only demonstrating a lack of leadership on this issue, it is unable to grasp the incredible financial loss to our province if this international link is discontinued," Clarke said. "Our goal is to urge our federal leaders to step in before it is too late."
Earlier this month, residents, retailers and community leaders from western Nova Scotia staged a protest at the Legislature. They asked the government to reconsider the decision, in light of the business the ferry service brings to the province each year.
When that failed to sway the premier, four municipalities and several businesses got together and raised about 50 per cent of the money needed to operate the ferry ruring the 2010 season.
The group has given Premier Dexter until Friday to respond to the offer, but d'Entremont said many of his Argyle constituents have given up hope.

"The premier has said nothing will change the decision, so the only thing we can do is make a formal plea to our federal ministers to act on behalf of Nova Scotians who will be devastated by this loss," d'Entremont said.

N.S. premier says no to latest proposal to save CAT high-speed ferry

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 13:37:00 +0000

From the Canadian Press

February 25, 2010 12:29 p.m.

HALIFAX, N.S. - The Nova Scotia government won't participate in a proposed deal to save high-speed ferry service to New England from the province's southwest coast.

Four municipalities in western Nova Scotia, with the backing of some businesses, say they're prepared to split the $6 million in subsidies needed to keep the CAT running this year.

But Premier Darrell Dexter says the province doesn't have the money and cabinet will not revisit the issue.

Members of the Conservative caucus are planning to travel to Ottawa next week to lobby the federal government for help.

Bay Ferries announced in December that it was going to end the service because the province was no longer willing to provide subsidies.

Local officials estimate the loss of the ferry will cost at least 500 tourism-related jobs.

News from ©The Canadian Press, 2010

Local rapper releases single to coincide with Olympics

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Fri, 29 Jan 2010 01:40:00 +0000

Taken from the January 28, 2010 Chronicle Herald online

A gold medal for timing

Local rapper releases single to coincide with Olympics
By JASON TEAKLE
Thu. Jan 28 - 4:53 AM

Classified, an Enfield rapper, shoots a video for his song, Oh Canada, from his 2009 album Self Explanatory in downtown Halifax earlier this month. (ANDREW VAUGHAN / CP)
In what appears to be a gold-plated marketing strategy, local rapper Classified released his new single Oh Canada just in time for the Olympics.
As athletes prepare to head to Vancouver, the single, which glorifies all things Canuck, is sure to be pumping through speakers near you.
"I told them we gotta get this video out before the Olympics," Classified, whose real name is Luke Boyd, recalled telling his production team.
"With the vibe of the Olympics, people are very proud to be from Canada."
Since the release of the song’s video on Jan. 17, a mere week after it was shot in downtown Halifax, sales of the song at the iTunes online music store have risen by 350 per cent, Classified said.
The iTunes Canada music store lists Oh Canada as the 37th most popular audio download from the site.
In Oh Canada, the Enfield rapper makes references to Canadians loving their beaver — not the kind on the nickel — and smoking marijuana because we consider it legal, while borrowing notes from the national anthem in the chorus.
The video even features Mr. Lahey, the character from the Trailer Park Boys television series played by John Dunsworth, swilling liquor right next to Classified while he raps in a crowd of fans dressed in red and white and flying the Maple Leaf everywhere, including a painted version on a pregnant woman’s belly.

The rapper said he wrote the song as a result of travelling outside the country and seeing different perceptions of Canada.
"We’re Canadians and we’re proud of where we’re from, so let it be known," he said.
He said he wrote the beat for Oh Canada about two years ago, then messed around with lyrics and decided he was on to something good.
Classified said Canadian musicians don’t think people take them seriously.
"It’s tough to be a Canadian musician," he said. "Most of us don’t make a lot of money."
Ed McHugh, who teaches marketing at Mount Saint Vincent and Dalhousie universities, said the decision to make Oh Canada a single just prior to the Olympics was a smart one.
"It’s brilliant from a business standpoint," said Mr. McHugh. "I can’t think of a better time for him to release the song."
Mr. McHugh said Classified’s level of success in reaping the financial benefits of a patriotic song during Olympic fever will depend on how well Canada does initially in Vancouver.
"A lot of the success of his song will come down to how well the teams do in the early going, and with that, television coverage will pick it up, people will get on board and then things like this can grow," he said.
Mr. McHugh said Canadians will be drawn to their own artists during the Olympics, though he isn’t positive the rapper will have quite the same audience as the Games.
"I’m not sure that the target audience for hip hop is the same audience that will follow the Olympics that closely, so there is the possibility of a miss here," he said.
"I don’t know if younger people, who would be more inclined to gravitate toward this song, will actually be watching the Olympics as much as the older generation."
Radio host R$ $mooth, also known as Ryan Somers, at 101.3 the Bounce in Halifax, said the target audience for the song doesn’t matter, only that it’s Canadian. Mr. Somers, who knows Classified personally, said the rapper’s timing of the song’s release as a single was intentional.
"The way the video worked out with the Olympics, that was definitely timed," said the radio host. "It’s a go-to song for those who may not be familiar with Canada. It introduces them to the stereotypes and pokes a lot of fun at them, and it shows Canadians have a lot of fun with who they are."

( jteakle@herald.ca)

2010 Olympic Torch Relay In Nova Scotia

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0000

As of November 1, 2009 here is the list of 2010 Olympic Torch Relay stops in Nova Scotia November 16, 2009
North Sydney
Sydney Mines
Membertou
Glace Bay
Dominion
Scotch Town
New Waterford
Sydney
Baddeck
Wagmatcook
Whycocomagh
Waycobah
Mabou
Port Hood
Judique
Port Hawkesbury - Evening Community Celebration

November 17, 2009
Tracadie
Pap'tnkek
Antigonish
New Glasgow
Trenton
Stellarton
Bible Hill
Truro - Evening Community Celebration

November 18, 2009
Millbrook
Stewiack
Shubenacadie
Elmsdale
Enfield
Waverly
North Preston
Cherry Brook
Cole Harbour
Dartmouth
Beechville
Halifax - Evening Community Celebration

November 19, 2009
Abbapolis Royal
Bear River
Yarmouth

November 20, 2009
Sackville
Windsor
Falmouth
Grand Pre'
Wolfville
New Minas
Kentville
Kingston
CFB Greenwood
Middleton
New Germany
Bridgewater
Lunenburg - Evening Community Celebration

November 21, 2009
Amherst

Line-up announced for 2009 Celtic Colours International Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 01:16:00 +0000

Celtic Colours International Festival organizers are pleased to release their line-up for 2009 today and excited about this year’s focus on the ties to and influence of Irish music and culture.
The festival kicks off with Island to Island: The Cape Breton-Ireland Musical Bridge, in Port Hawkesbury on October 9. It’s a concert that goes to the root of it all, says Artistic Director Joella Foulds. “In 1993, a group of Cape Breton musicians were invited to Ireland to put on a Cape Breton festival in Cork. Now, we have invited the Irish here to share their cultural traditions in this concert and throughout the nine days of the Festival.”

Twenty-four artists from Ireland will be participating in the Festival this year which runs from October 9-17. Their presence will contribute to an exploration of tradition and culture and how that is maintained through generations and in communities. People might not recognize the names of some of the Irish artists, but they are the people who are carrying on the tradition.

“We want our audience to experience the real thing,” Foulds explains, “just as they would with our Cape Breton artists. These Irish artists represent the best of the various traditions including Donegal fiddling, the Irish harp, uillean piping, Irish Gaelic and sean nos (meaning “old style”) singing, accordion, sean nos dancing, and story telling.”

“In 1993, a group of Cape Breton musicians were invited to Ireland to put on a Cape Breton festival in Cork. Now, we have invited the Irish here to share their cultural traditions in this concert and throughout the nine days of the Festival.”

- Joella Foulds (Artistic Director, Celtic Colours International Festival)

Some of the visiting artists Celtic Colours fans may recognize from Ireland are harper Laoise Kelly from the popular group Bumblebees, Maireád Ní Mhaonaigh of Altan, and of course, Liam ó Maonlaí who was a big hit last year. Returning from Scotland this year is the fiddle harp duo Chris Stout and Catriona McKay; fiddler Sarah McFadyen from Harem Scarem and the Unusual Suspects; Mairi Campbell who performed with the Cast in 1997; and Gaelic singer Brian Ó hEadhra.
Canadian artists returning to the Festival this year include Le Vent du Nord from Quebec, fiddler Sierra Noble from Manitoba, and Jim Payne & Fergus O’Byrne from Newfoundland while Abby Newton and Kim Robertson will be traveling from the US.

This year, there will be concerts paying tribute to influential Cape Breton fiddlers Sandy MacIntyre, Angus Chisholm and Jerry Holland. There are also a couple of very special shows in the works. One is Suite Silver Dart, featuring Symphony Nova Scotia, which will premiere Friday at the Savoy with an encore performance on Saturday afternoon at Strathspey Place. Another is a show called The Fiddle Tree, October 12 in Sydney Mines at St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, a new venue this year. This show will put luthier Otis Tomas’s work, both his instruments and his music, on display in a way not to be missed. And also fitting into the category of not be missed shows is Traveling Tunes, a show that takes advantage of the expertise of this year’s Artists in Residence Paul Cranford from Cape Breton and Máire O'Keeffe from Ireland. They will be discussing tunes and how they make their way around the world in a show that includes some of Cape Breton’s foremost composers and carriers of the tunes. As usual there will be a number of shows featuring Gaelic song, piping, fiddling and traditional dance as well as the Acadien roots of Cape Breton’s music.

For those who want to experience the festival more deeply, there is once again an extensive program of hundreds of Cultural Opportunities available in communities all around the Island.

For the full schedule and lineup of artists visit www.celtic-colours.com. Tickets will go on sale July 6 at 9am ADT. They can be purchased online through our website or by phoning our Box Office at 567-3000 locally or 1-888-355-7744 (toll free in North America).

Highland Village August Event Line-Up

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 13:00:00 +0000

Tourism, Culture and Heritage

Nova Scotians and visitors from around the world can experience Gaelic culture at various events happening in August at Highland Village Museum in Iona, Victoria Co. The outdoor living history museum offers a unique opportunity to explore period buildings along with a breathtaking view of the Bras d'Or Lakes.

Highland Village is kicking-off the month, with the annual Highland Village Day concert, Aug. 1. The outdoor concert features fiddlers, step-dancers, pipers, highland dancers and local musicians, including the Boisdale Trio and special guests J.P. Cormier and Hilda Chiasson Cormier. The concert will be from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is $10 per person with children under 12 admitted free. In the case of rain, the concert will take place indoors.

The Làithean Sona/Happy Days program will continue every Wednesday in August from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Children ages eight to 12 are provided costumes to live for a day in the life of Gaels with traditional chores, crafts, games, language, and songs. The cost is $30 per child. Reservations are required.

Na Deugairean/Living History for Youth is a program offered to teens ages 13-17. Young people will participate in various activities of young Gaels. Na Deugairean is offered Aug. 6, and Aug. 20, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $30 per person. Prepaid reservations are required.

Every Friday in August, children are invited to take part in Spòrs, a morning of interactive games that focus on many aspects of Gaelic heritage. The games help children learn basic Gaelic vocabulary and phrases. Spòrs is for children ages five-10, and takes place from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Admission is free.

On Aug. 11, Highland Village will be hosting Musique Royale Concert featuring Ensemble Polaris. It will be an evening of innovative tunes from Scandinavia and the Baltic countries. The name, Not Much Worse Than a Troll, the title of their second album. Polaris concerts feature haunting ballads, rollicking dance tunes, tender lullabies, and nonsense songs that appeal to music lovers of all ages. The concert starts at 7 p.m. Admission is $20 for adults and $5 for students. Tickets are available at the door, or in the Highland Village Gift Shop.

The second Candlelight Tour of the summer will be on Aug. 12. It will be an intimate evening featuring a storytelling tour of the living history museum. The tour will take place under a Cape Breton sunset overlooking the Bras d'Or Lakes. The tour runs from 7-9 p.m. Admission is $12 for adults, $5 for students, and $28 for a family. Prepaid reservations are required.

Finishing-off the month is the delicious Codfish Supper, Aug. 22. Guests can satisfy their taste buds with a feed of salt cod, potatoes and all the trimmings of a traditional Cape Breton salt cod supper. There will also be hot dogs available upon request. The supper is from 3-6 p.m. in the Tuning Room. Admission is $15 for adults, $8 for a children's plate, and $2 for a hot dog. Admission includes a tour of the village.

The Highland Village Museum and gift shop are open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. For information or to register for any of the events call 902-725-2272, or e-mail highlandvillage@gov.ns.ca .

Media Contacts: Jim Watson
Highland Village Museum
902-725-2272
E-mail: watsonjb@gov.ns.ca

Shannon MacIver
Highland Village Museum
902-725-2272
E-mail: highlandvillage@gov.ns.ca

Highland Village Presents Gaelic Awareness Month Céilidh

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 10:45:00 +0000

Tourism, Culture and Heritage

Highland Village Museum in Iona, Victoria Co., will celebrate the first day of Gaelic Awareness Month on Friday, May 1, with an afternoon Stòras a' Bhaile immersion céilidh. Storas a' Bhaile means the village treasure, alluding to community-based Gaelic culture.

The céilidh will be held in the in the reception centre boardroom from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. and includes Gaelic singing, storytelling, music and dancing in the Nova Scotia tradition.

Highland Village Storas a' Bhaile events are in response to the province's growing number of Gaelic learners seeking opportunities to socialize and enjoy their culture through the Gaelic language. Storas a' Bhaile immersions can encompass a wide variety of everyday activities ranging from preparation of traditional food to lessons in step-dancing.

Sessions focus on aspects of Gaelic culture in Nova Scotia and are intended to provide an easygoing and natural atmosphere for speaking Gaelic. This is is the first in a series of Storas a' Bhaile events that will be held at Highland Village. A three day Storas a' Bhaile folklife school will be held during the last three days of July, leading up to the Highland Village Day concert on Aug. 1.

There is no admission charge. For more information on Highland Village events, call 902-725-2272 or e-mail highlandvillage@gov.ns.ca.

Media Contact: Rodney Chaisson
Highland Village Museum
902-725-2272
E-mail: chaissrs@gov.ns.ca

Maritime Museum Unveils Recently Acquired Titanic Artifacts

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 10:45:00 +0000

Tourism, Culture and Heritage

On Wednesday, April 15, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic will commemorate the 97th anniversary of the sinking of RMS Titanic by unveiling a display of recently acquired artifacts connected to the tragedy.

Acquired in October, the artifacts are valuable additions to the museum's permanent Titanic exhibit, which tells the story of Halifax's connection to the ill-fated vessel. The acquisition was possible with the support of the Nova Scotia Museum Endowment Fund, administered by the Nova Scotia Museum board of governors.

"These artifacts are notable for two reasons," said museum manager Kim Reinhardt. "First, because of their association with Titanic and secondly, because they are representative of Halifax's Titanic connection. Their addition further enhances the museum's significant Titanic collection, which is the largest collection of its kind in Canada."

The objects to be introduced include a mortuary bag, a wreckwood rosette, a photograph and cap badge.

The mortuary bag was sewn aboard the Halifax cable ship Mackay-Bennett and was used to safeguard the personal effects of Body No. 41, 33-year-old Edmund Stone, a first-class bedroom steward from Southhampton who was buried at sea.

The core of the system of body recovery and identification, mortuary bags were made aboard ship as bodies were found, and they proved very effective in keeping victims' personal effects together, both on the ship and in the morgue.

The system was so successful, that during the Halifax Explosion the coroner followed the Titanic example and made identical bags for the personal effects of explosion victims.

The wreckwood rosette was made by William Parker, a Nova Scotian carpenter aboard the Halifax cable ship Minia who participated in the recovery of Titanic victims. Like many sailors, Mr. Parker collected pieces of floating Titanic debris to keep as mementos of the historic disaster.

Parker crafted the decorative rosette out of eight pieces of the mahogany balustrade from the ship's grand staircase. Titanic wreckwood is the specialty of the Maritime Museum's Titanic exhibit and many other pieces in that collection were also made by Mr. Parker, such as a cribbage board he crafted from Titanic oak.

The photograph and cap badge that will be included in the display also belonged to Mr. Parker. The signed photograph is of Mr. Parker, dressed in the cable company uniform he wore aboard the Minia. The cap badge was part of a different cable ship uniform he most likely wore aboard another vessel during 45-year career at sea.

Already in possession of Mr. Parker's sea chest and the tools he used to craft his wreckwood pieces, the museum was eager to obtain the photograph and cap badge, as both objects illustrate this regular Nova Scotian who played a role in Titanic's history.

The Maritime Museum of the Atlantic is located at 1675 Lower Water St., Halifax.

Media Contact: Jasmine Marshall
Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
902-424-6447
E-mail: marshajd@gov.ns.ca

Visitors Invited to Experience Nova Scotia in 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 10:30:00 +0000

Tourism, Culture and Heritage

Travellers near and far are invited to discover their favourite Nova Scotian experience as the province launches its 2009 tourism marketing campaign.

The campaign focuses on key markets nationally, regionally and internationally.

"Our 2009 marketing plan was developed with input from industry and targets markets that offer the greatest potential to attract visitors to Nova Scotia," said Tourism, Culture and Heritage Minister Bill Dooks. "The plan includes increased activity in markets like Western Canada and the UK, and a stronger regional campaign to address the trend of people travelling closer to home."

The national portion of the campaign began this week with the launch of five 30-second TV ads that showcase the scenic beauty, culture and people of Nova Scotia. The ads are running nationally on speciality channels such as Discovery, HGTV, Bravo!, and Food Network. The national portion of the campaign will also include magazine ads, full-colour newspaper ads and online marketing.

"This campaign portrays authentic Nova Scotians and experiences," said John Somers, executive director of tourism, Department of Tourism, Culture and Heritage. "Nova Scotia's scenic beauty, rich heritage and vibrant culture create memorable experiences for visitors and this campaign entices everyone to experience it for themselves."

The Department of Tourism, Culture and Heritage has also developed a regional marketing campaign to entice Atlantic Canadians to experience a vacation close to home. The regional campaign includes 15-second TV ads, 10-second closed captioning ads, and newspaper and online advertising. The regional campaign will begin the week of April 27.

The province will expand its online marketing strategy by using social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. These sites allow for direct communication with visitors to promote the province and learn more about their travel habits. Additionally, visitors can share their Nova Scotian experiences with the rest of the world.

Along with traditional advertising, the province will host promotional events in key Canadian markets, and attend consumer shows and special events in Toronto, Ottawa, Calgary and the Saltscapes Expo in Halifax.

The 2009 tourism marketing plan includes enhancements to Provincial Visitor Information Centres. The centres will have new brand images, literature racks, and digital screens to promote local attractions and encourage longer visits. New features have been added to novascotia.com, including Google maps and live online chat with visitor services staff.

For more information on the province's tourism marketing campaign or to view some of the ads visit www.novascotia.com.

Media Contact: Dave Denny
Tourism, Culture and Heritage
223-4403
E-mail: dennydp@gov.ns.ca

NovaScotia.com Launches New Nova Scotia Map Tool

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 00:30:00 +0000

The Province of Nova Scotia has once again turned to Google Earth to help visitors locate attractions and accommodations in Nova Scotia.

Planning a Nova Scotia vacation just became even easier with the launch of a new Nova Scotia map tool on novascotia.com.

Through an imbedded Google Maps application, visitors to the site can now pinpoint the exact location of participating accommodations, Nova Scotia attractions, festivals and events, sites of outdoor activities and tour operators around this maritime province.

The new feature will help visitors to plan a trip to Nova Scotia by offering driving directions from anywhere in North America. Now visitors can plan itineraries based on the places they would like to visit, and the routes they’d like to take in getting there. It will offer vacation planners another tool to find Nova Scotia hotels, resorts and other accommodations within proximity to attractions and events.

The maps will also allow travellers to view an enlarged satellite image of destinations, giving them the ability to recognize specific landmarks or zoom out for a broader view. Place markers may include additional information on a destination, such as contact information. As well, the printer-friendly version of the map and directions will assist visitors while on the road and navigating to their destination within Nova Scotia.

For the province’s tourism operators, the new Google Maps application will help direct visitors to their businesses when searching for Nova Scotia vacation ideas, accommodations, attractions and more in specific areas.

For more information about planning a vacation, or to use the new Nova Scotia map feature, visit www.novascotia.com.

About the Nova Scotia Department of Tourism, Culture and Heritage:
Nova Scotia Tourism, Culture and Heritage is responsible for promotion of this maritime province on Canada's Atlantic Coast, using interactive tools and online education to assist visitors in learning about the province and planning Nova Scotia vacations, including colourful videos and eye-catching photos.

For more information, including interviews, please contact:
Randy Brooks
Tourism, Culture and Heritage
Phone: 902-424-4171
E-mail: rbrooks@gov.ns.ca

White Point Beach Resort

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 12:15:00 +0000

White Point Beach Resort, located on the South Shore, offers Just For Women Weekends - rest, relax, rejuvenate and have fun! Tempt your taste buds with "Off the Vine" wine or cocktail samplings. Get pampered with a massage and facial in the Ocean Spa. Enjoy a three-course dinner overlooking the sea. Unwind in front of the fire with a good book and a specialty coffee. Take a care-free stroll along the beach ... the weekend is just for you and the gals - you can do it all or do nothing!
Discover the Northumberland Shore with the warmest waters north of the Carolina’s. Explore the earliest examples of social behaviour on earth at the new Joggins Fossil Centre! Overnight in an original train car at the Train Station Inn in Tatamagouche. Take the gals and find unique organic treats at the Tatamagouche Creamery Farmer’s Market or indulge and sink your teeth into delicious maple treats at Sugar Moon Farm. Refresh with local blueberries - Nova Scotia is the leading processor of wild blueberries in the world and second leading producer, and gals know that blueberries have higher levels of anti-oxidants than any other fruit or vegetable making it extremely healthy and popular internationally… and they taste great too!
One Life Surf School is Eastern Canada's first women's surf school offering instruction for both groups and individuals. Inspired by the ocean, One Life Surf School has been spearheaded by a collective of women who love surfing. Services include environmental workshops, surf camps, apparel, professional development, leadership training, and self-care such as massage therapy, yoga, and reiki therapy. The sky is the limit! One Life Surf School is about unity, empowerment, education, respect, laughter, salty hair, sand between your toes, happiness, creativity, and so much more!
Nova Scotia is a golf haven for women - beginners and experts alike! Choose from over 60 golf courses throughout the province, where classic designs and contemporary layouts combine championship depth, diversity and pure golfing pleasure … for the ladies! Several courses are now offering women’s only tournaments, weekends and lessons, all accompanied by high quality accommodations and spectacular dining options!
The Annapolis Valley area is rich in agriculture … so no great surprise that it is a fabulous destination for experiencing a ‘taste of Nova Scotia’ with your girlfriends … from the slow food movement at The Port in Port Williams to the sensational temptations at The Tempest Restaurant to picking your own lobster to dine on at the Hall’s Harbour Lobster Pound to handpicking the tastiest Honeycrisp apple at Stirling Fruit Farms … the options are endless! Add to that a wine and chocolate tasting at Gaspereau Vineyard or Stutz Hard Apple Cider & Foxhill Cheese on the pergola at Domain de Grand Pre …. our 8 wineries have garnered international acclaim for their efforts and passion!

content from Nova Scotia Tourism, www.novascotia.com

Family Fun in Nova Scotia

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 12:30:00 +0000

As Nova Scotia’s premiere fun destination, Upper Clements Park delivers thrilling rides, amazing wildlife and delightful family entertainment all in an enjoyable outdoor atmosphere. Nestled in a beautiful Annapolis Valley forest in Nova Scotia, you can soar through the treetops on our exciting wooden rollercoaster or create your own big splash by plunging down our own big flume-ride. Crash and bump in our bumper boats or whirl down a huge waterslide. It’s all here! The Parks also includes a Theme Park, a Wildlife & Picnic Park.
At Ross Farm Museum you will learn about what life was like on a Nova Scotian farm between 100 and 175 years ago, Ross Farm is typical of the many small farms that existed throughout Nova Scotia when the province was still being settled. See heritage animals up-close such as Canadian horses, oxen and Berkshire pigs. Or take part in workshops including nature walks, woodworking, blacksmithing and candle making.
Marvel at the Bay of Fundy and witness the highest tides of the world - on top of them by Tidal Bore Rafting. From on top of 200metre high cliffs watch the tide rise over 16 metres. Discover the rare phenomenon created when competing currents collide It’s a one-of-a-kind adventure vacation experience to ride a tidal bore. The cresting waves become your personal roller coaster.
Check out the Whale Watching Interpretative Centre in Pleasant Bay … then hop on board one of several whale watching operators in the area and check out the whales in the bay up close and personal!
Run wild with the wildlife at the Oaklawn Farm Zoo. A fun adventure for all ages, Oaklawn Farm Zoo boasts the largest display of Big Cats and Primates in Eastern Canada, and much more. Home and birthplace of Rutledge, the Worlds Largest Lion, Oaklawns 50-acre zoo offers a relaxing atmosphere in a country like setting. Oaklawn Farm Zoo features a
large variety of endangered and threatened species of exotic, native and domestic breeds of animals.
Tag a lobster on an educational, research-based experience with Lobsterman Tours. Discover first hand, the salty history of charming Lunenburg, Nova Scotia (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) by experiencing the life of a Lobster Fisherman! This is an entertaining and educational experience and an absolute must if you are visiting Nova Scotia!
Your tour takes you to the fishing grounds for the hauling of the lobster traps! Along the way you'll learn about lobsters and lobster fishing from the professional crew. The tour is a 'hands-on educational science' with an onboard marine biologist and a touch tank featuring lobsters, crabs, and other marine creatures.
From cultural fetes to music festivals, Nova Scotia vacations with a festive edge abound. Tour our maritime province, taking in authentic Nova Scotia cuisine, dancing to Celtic folk music, exploring your Nova Scotia genealogy or delighting in a parade check out the highlights below of Nova Scotia Signature Events you won’t want to miss!
• October is Pumpkin Fest in the Annapolis Valley - a month of food, fun and family events to celebrate our harvest season. Join us for Pumpkin fun, Pumpkin food, Pumpkin art and fresh Valley Pumpkins! Visit our website for to discover the many events and tastes along the Pumpkin path. Drive to the Valley and become part of the Giant Fun!
• Bring your sand bucket and imagination to the Clam Harbour Beach Sandcastle & Sculpture Contest.
• Dino Daze - Celebrate this 'Dino' namic Day in Parrsboro by making dino goo, dino pins and rock crafts and by looking at real dinosaur bones and dino droppings! Join us for a lunch of t-rex fingers, dinocake and swamp water!
• The Nova Scotia Provincial Exhibition features something for everyone. Professional music artists, motorsports, harness racing and local entertainers are featured along with traditional agricultural displays and competitions.
We also host the largest midway in Nova Scotia. Bring your family and friends for a full day of agricultural education, great food and lots of family entertainment.
• In Jeddore Oyster Pond, the Pirate Festival begins September 19th with an "International Talk Like A Pirate Day" dinner and continues all day Saturday with "Pirates on Parade" street parade, Pirate boat sail-by, musket and cannon fire competitions, pirate sea and land battles and games for young and old buccaneers.

content from Nova Scotia Tourism, www.novascotia.com

Yarmouth Airport to Get Scheduled Air Service in February

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Wed, 14 Jan 2009 03:57:00 +0000

Looks like Yarmouth will be getting some regular scheduled air service starting in February. This is some great news to this area of the province.

Launch event planned at airport Tuesday to introduce public to new air service
By Tina Comeau

THE VANGUARD

The public is being invited to the Yarmouth airport on Tuesday, Jan. 20 to learn more about the new scheduled air service that will be starting up next month.

Starting in February the Quebec-based company Starlink Aviation is going to be offering air service that will be based in Yarmouth and flying to and from Portland and Halifax. The intention is to offer two daily flights Monday through Friday.

A flight schedule has been worked out. An 18-seater Jetstream 31 turboprop aircraft will depart daily from Yarmouth at 7:30 a.m. and arrive in Halifax at 8:14 a.m. It will depart Halifax at 8:40 a.m. and arrived back in Yarmouth at 9:30 a.m.

The first trip to Portland leaves from Yarmouth at 9:50 a.m., arriving an hour and eight minutes later at its Maine destination. The return flight arrives back in Yarmouth at 12:43 p.m.

The second trip of the day to Halifax will leave at 1:10 p.m. and arrive at 1:54 p.m. The aircraft leaves Halifax on its return trip to Yarmouth at 4:45 p.m., arriving at 5:35 p.m. It flies back to Portland at 6:05 p.m.

The return flight from Portland arrives in Yarmouth a couple of minutes before 9 p.m.

One-way tickets prices – which are in Canadian dollars and exclusive of taxes – are $159 between Yarmouth and Halifax. The fare is $249 for trips between Portland and Halifax. The cost to fly between Yarmouth and Portland is $199.

Tuesday’s roll out of the service at the airport gets underway with a 9:30 a.m. press conference involving dignitaries and company officials. Glen Lynch, CEO of Starlink Aviation, will be in attendance.

In the afternoon – following a lunch with the hotel and hospitality community – a session is planned for local business people.

Part of Tuesday’s launch includes a session open to the public from 10 a.m. to noon, when people are invited to come to the airport and gather information about the new service.

“They’ll get to talk with people, pick up information and data, flight schedules, chat with the airline, learn how to book flights,” says Jeff Munroe, development director for the Yarmouth airport.

A similar launch event was held in Portland on Monday, Jan. 12 and another is planned in Halifax on Jan. 21.

“We’re already getting piles and piles of people calling us and calling the airline about how to book,” Monroe says. “It’s been amazing. We’ve got the fishermen contacting us about wanting to go to the Boston seafood show. We’ve got people wanted to do fam (tourism familiarization) tours. We’ve got people wanting to book out of Portland to go to Florida. It’s just been crazy, but it’s been crazy good.”

The only thing missing from Tuesday’s event will be the aircraft itself. The plane that will be based in Yarmouth is still being readied for its relocation here.

As for a start-up date of the air service, that has yet to be finalized. The company behind the service is still in the process of getting final Transport Canada approvals, which, could be in place by the end of the week.

There are also invited exhibitors that will be participating at Tuesday’s event, these include: Portland Jetport, Halifax Stanfield Airport, Portland Chamber of Commerce, Portland Convention and Visitors Bureau, Portland Downtown District, Mermaid Transportation, Concord Trailways, Maine Tourism Association, White Mountain Attractions, Bay Ferries, Destination Halifax, Nova Scotia Tourism and Nova Scotia Business Inc.

“FREE” Things To Do In Nova Scotia

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 12:00:00 +0000

1 Watch the tidal bore come in and experience the highest tides in the world
2 Comb our beaches for sanddollars, clam shells, periwinkles and more!
3 Pick your own apples … Cortlands, MacIntosh, Honeycrisp, Jonagold …
4 Climb the rocks at Peggy’s Cove to the only post office in Canada operating in a lighthouse!
5 Join in a family square dance in Glencoe Mills!
6 Provincial parks throughout the province offer free access to hiking trails, picnic sites and beaches.
7 Access lighthouses like Cape d’Or near Advocate Harbour, Cape Forchu in Yarmouth or Peggy’s Cove
with the only post office in a lighthouse!

content from Nova Scotia Tourism, www.novascotia.com

Nova Scotia International Air Show NSIAS 2009

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 21:00:00 +0000

New year, new location...
The 2009 Nova Scotia Internationl Air Show is on the move. Over the last few years the show has had its share of complications when it has been held at the Stanfield International Airport ( YHZ ). The decision has been made to try relocating the show to see if things work out better in Yarmouth.

The Nova Scotia International Air Show is on the move. After a very challenging year that saw hurricanes steal most of the Show from the fans, NSIAS is relocating for 2009 to a venue that offers more opportunity to display the very best event possible with less risk.

The Yarmouth Airport will host the Show on September 12 and 13 in 2009. With its history of successful Shows in the 80's and 90's and after a very good event last September, NSIAS has decided to make Yarmouth its home for this year. The venue allows freedom of air space that is not possible in the busy skies over Halifax Stanfield International Airport. It also has ample parking on-site and a community infrastructure in accommodations, services and volunteers that will lend itself to a very successful event.

The full line-up of our major Canadian Show will attend in September, including the CF Snowbirds, CF SkyHawks and CF-18 Demo. United States participation has been approved and we anticipate the return of the USAF A-10 Thunderbolt II and for the first time, the USN F/A-18F Super Hornet. We are very excited that our popular Canadian Army "Camp Canada" will be on the ground with its interactive displays. We have hit a home run with our civilian line-up for this year as well. The enormously popular Flash Fire Jet Truck will return - and they are not coming alone - teamed with two world-class aerobatic performers, the jet truck completes "Team Chaos", a four-performance tour-de-force that features a final act that will leave the crowd stunned and amazed.

We are extremely excited to present some important heritage aircraft to help celebrate the Canadian Centennial of Flight. The "Hawk One" project will bring its F-86 Sabre, in Golden Hawks markings to the Show for a thrilling solo demonstration and combined heritage flight. NSIAS will also be the final stop on the "Back to Baddeck" cross-country tour of several vintage aircraft being organized by the Canadian Aeronautical Preservation Association (CAPA).

Old Fashioned Christmas Returns to Sherbrooke

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:35:00 +0000

It's Christmas time again and Nova Scotia's Heritage attractions are once again offering something to help you get in the spirit.

Tourism, Culture and Heritage
November 13, 2008 12:48 PM

Old Fashioned Christmas will return to Sherbrooke in December thanks to support from the St. Mary's Lions Club, Nova Scotia Power and community volunteers.

There will be a craft sale on Saturday, Nov. 22, a dinner theatre on Saturday, Nov. 29, a variety concert on Sunday, Nov. 30 and an adult dance featuring George Brothers and Ol Blue on Saturday, Dec. 6.

Although Sherbrooke Village is unable to offer its traditional weekend of activities because it will be closed for power-line upgrades, a number of related events hosted by the two organizations at the St. Mary's Lions Hall will help maintain the spirit of Christmas. Maritimes and Northeast Pipeline is returning as a sponsor.

Sherbrooke Village aims to offer a bigger and more eco-friendly Old Fashioned Christmas in the future.

"Our community partners have long been supporters of Old Fashioned Christmas, and we're grateful for their extra support to make some events possible this year," said Lynne Hayne, manager development and promotions for Sherbrooke Village. "With their help, our community will come together again to celebrate the joys of the season, from skating and hot chocolate to Santa and Christmas lights."

The Christmas tree lighting will take place as usual at Maple Manor on Friday, Dec. 5. Participants traditionally parade through Sherbrooke Village after the lighting. This year, they will parade to the St. Mary's Recplex which will be decorated with lights that normally light up the village. There will be a family skate, refreshments, a visit from Santa and fireworks.

Donations of money and non-perishable food will be collected for the St. Mary's Food Bank at the tree lighting and the Recplex.

Conserve Nova Scotia, Nova Scotia Power and the St. Mary's Lions Club will collect old incandescent holiday lights. Participants can exchange two sets of old lights for one set of energy-efficient LED lights. Quantities are limited and will be provided on a first come first served basis.

Media Contact: Lynn Hayne
Sherbrooke Village
1-888-743-7845
E-mail: haynelm@gov.ns.ca

Premier Signs Memorandum to Help Build More Trails

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 23:00:00 +0000

The Premier of Nova Scotia has committed to helping complete the Trans Canada Trail network in Nova Scotia.

Health Promotion and Protection
October 21, 2008 4:04 PM

Walking throughout Nova Scotia on the Trans Canada Trail just got easier.

Premier Rodney MacDonald, Trans Canada Trail National chair Valerie Pringle, Trans Canada Trail president and CEO Deborah Apps and Terry Norman, president of the Nova Scotia Trails Federation, today, Oct. 21, signed a memorandum of understanding to expand the trail system in Nova Scotia to make it the province most connected by trails.

The memorandum of understanding establishes a working relationship to complete the trail in Nova Scotia. It also encourages community support and assists community volunteers in the development of trails.

Trans Canada Trail National has also agreed to continue its national trail construction funding program, conduct national fundraising programs and support the planning and building of pavilions at visible locations in the province.

"The Trans Canada Trail is a wonderful showcase for the natural beauty of our great country," said Premier MacDonald. "The trail will also provide Nova Scotians with more opportunities for physical activities like, walking, running and biking."

"Trans Canada Trail is currently developing the world's longest recreational trail, connecting hundreds of Canadian communities said Ms. Pringle. "The trail, when completed, will run from the Atlantic to the Pacific to the Arctic oceans, through every province and territory, linking more than 33 million Canadians.

"It will showcase Canada at its best and trails in Nova Scotia will make up an important part of it."

"The signing of the memorandum of understanding is a milestone that shows the province understands the importance of trails and trail building for the communities and people of Nova Scotia," said Ms. Apps.

The province will establish an intergovernmental committee of representatives from departments that are responsible for building trails. The committee will work closely with the Nova Scotia Trails Federation to investigate ways to support the sustainable management of the Trans Canada Trail in Nova Scotia.

"Nova Scotia Trails appreciates the strong financial and public policy support that we have received from the government of Nova Scotia over the past 12 years," said Mr. Norman. "We are also thankful for the financial, administrative and moral support that we have received from Trans Canada Trail National.

"The memorandum of understanding we are signing is tangible evidence of the strength of our partnership."

Media Contact: Glenn Friel
Health Promotion and Protection
902-424-5323
Cell: 902-456-7416
E-mail: Glenn.Friel@gov.ns.ca

New Nature Reserves for Nova Scotia

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 15:30:00 +0000

The province of Nova Scotia has added five new locations to its list of protected spaces.
This is a great move for the environment and ecotourism ensuring that the province will continue to have great spaces protected for generations to come.

Environment
October 16, 2008 12:19 PM

Five new nature reserves in Nova Scotia will protect old-growth forests, wetlands, rare species' habitats, and ecosystems.

Once formally designated, the areas will provide the province's highest level of environmental protection to lands purchased by the government from the former Bowater Mersey Paper Company in 2007.

"The province committed to protecting those ecologically significant lands acquired from Bowater, and we are following through on that commitment," said Environment Minister Mark Parent.

There are already 16 nature reserves in Nova Scotia. They protect relatively small, important ecological sites and support scientific research and education.

The five new reserves will help protect 594 hectares (1,468 acres) and will be designated under the Special Places Protection Act. They will be in four counties and will be places for researchers and nature enthusiasts to explore, study and cherish forever.

Long Lake Nature Reserve in Lunenburg County will be 261 hectares (about 645 acres). It will protect mature spruce, pine and shade-tolerant hardwood forest growing on land enclosing Long Lake, in an area of the province with very little protected land. It is being designated with the cooperation of Tripple Uranium Resources, a mineral exploration company which has volunteered to give up its mineral claims in the area being protected.

Sixth and Coades Lakes Nature Reserve in Queens County will be 129 hectares (about 318 acres). Mature and old-growth hemlock forests grow along the shores of Sixth and Coades Lakes. The area has been recognized since the early 1970s as an International Biological Program site.

Also in Queens County, Eighteen Mile Brook Nature Reserve will be 66 hectares (about 163 acres). The area will protect a portion of a large wetland system which supports a vulnerable plant species called Long's Bulrush. Due to the plant's limited numbers, it is included on a national list of species of special concern.

West Branch Medway River Nature Reserve in Annapolis County will be 79 hectares (about 195 acres). It will protect old-growth hemlock forest and a rich wetland on the shores of the river.

Martin Brook Nature Reserve in Shelburne County will be 60 hectares (about 147 acres). It is a small area of older pine and spruce forest.

The Department of Environment worked closely with the Department of Natural Resources to establish the protected areas.
Protecting the environment is one of government's priorities. Work is well underway on additional designations of new protected areas on the lands acquired from Bowater.

The nature reserve designations show continued progress on government's commitment in the Environmental Goals and Sustainable Prosperity Act to protect 12 per cent of Nova Scotia's land base by 2015.

Media Contact: Bruce Nunn
Department of Environment
902-424-6427
Cell: 902-476-6454
E-mail: nunnbx@gov.ns.ca

Free Joel Plaskett Emergency Concert in Bridgewater Nova Scotia

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 01:00:00 +0000

It's time for another free D250 concert featuring a great local artist, Joel Plaskett Emergency and others.
The concert will be held on October 23 at Shipyards Landing in Bridgewater, Nova Scotia. This event is free to the general public and will include a BBQ rain or shine. You can give a big thanks to the sponsors of this event, your local MLAs.
Michael G. Baker - Lunenburg
Carolyn Bolivar-Getson - Lunenburg West
Vicki Conrad - Queens
Judy Streatch - Chester - St. Margaret's

See below for a map to Shipyards Landing in Bridgewater.

View Larger Map

Highland Village Celebrates a Gaelic Halloween

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 01:40:00 +0000

Looking for something to do to get you in the mood for Halloween? Why not visit Highland Village for their Gaelic Halloween.

Tourism, Culture and Heritage
October 16, 2008 3:32 PM

The Great Night of Ghosts will soon chill the air at Highland Village Museum in Iona.

The museum is presenting Oidhche Shamhna or a Gaelic Halloween over three evenings, Thursday, Oct. 23, Friday, Oct. 24, and Saturday, Oct. 25 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. The village will observe the customs and stories of Halloween with a series of special activities titled Oidhche Mhór nam Bòcan or The Great Night of Ghosts.

Known in English as All Souls Eve, or Halloween, in ancient times people speaking Celtic languages marked winter's beginning and the time of darkness, with Oidhche Shamhna, a night when spirits walk in the world of mortals. Gaels in Cape Breton have kept this night of seasonal change alive with customs brought to the island from the Scottish Highlands and Islands two centuries ago.

For three nights, the Highland Village site and its buildings will become the haunt of Halloween visitors and strange happenings as a torchlight tour takes guests to the black house, log cabin, 1820s centre chimney house, the Malagawatch Church, 1865 centre hallway house, country store and 1900s farmhouse. Each historic building offers a re-enactment from Cape Breton's Gaelic tradition that will thrill and chill with eerie incidents.

The walk will end with storytelling and a céilidh in the Village Tuning Room with traditional fuarag, which is oatmeal, cream and sugar, on-hand to taste. Eating fuarag on Halloween night is an ancient practice and well-known throughout Gaelic Nova Scotia. Light refreshments and oatcakes will also be served.

The conclusion of Oidhche Mhór nam Bòcan will give guests an opportunity to tell their own stories, along with special storytellers, in a friendly Halloween atmosphere. Fiddle music and Gaelic songs will round out the evening.

Admission for adults is ten dollars and five dollars for students. A twenty dollar rate for three or more family members is also available. For a memorable Halloween occasion, make Highland Village your gruesome destination.

The Oidhche Mhór nam Bòcan tour can only accommodate a limited number of people. Please pre-register to ensure your place by calling Highland Village at 902-725-2272 in advance.

Media Contact: Rodney Chaisson
Highland Village Museum
902-725-2272
E-mail: chaissrs@gov.ns.ca

Celtic Colours International Festival 2008 - October 10-18, 2008

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 17:00:00 +0000

Since 1997 the Celtic Colours International Festival has attracted countless thousands of visitors to Cape Breton Island Nova Scotia to hear some of the finest music from all over the Celtic world. This year will be no different with 46 shows planned for venues all over Cape Breton Island. The festival will have artists from all over Canada, the U.S., Scotland, Ireland, Wales, Denmark, France, Spain and Cuba. Spanning 9 days over 260 events will take place in communities all over the island. These events range from educational workshops and discussions to community dances and meals to visual art exhibitions.
Full festival details can be seen on the festival web site. www.celtic-colours.com. The 2008 Celtic Colours International Festival will run from October 10-18.

Pomegranate Phone - Nova Scotia Marketing At It's Best

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 23:00:00 +0000

I was simply amazed when I first came across the Pomegranate Phone. This all-in-one device has everything you expect from a new smart phone and more. It has a built in projector, GPS, global voice translator and more. I have to get one.

But seriously this is one of the best examples of viral marketing I have ever seen. The province of Nova Scotia has done a really good job on this Pomegranate Phone project. According to Stacey Jones-Oxner, Nova Scotia Come to Life spokeswoman “We want to get business people and others looking at us as a place to invest, work, live and do business.”

Have a look at this...

http://www.pomegranatephone.com/

You will want one too!

Free Concert To Feature Hedley

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Fri, 12 Sep 2008 00:00:00 +0000

The Province of Nova Scotia has announced a free public concert to be held in Halifax's Grand Parade on Saturday September 27, 2008. For more details see the province's press release below.

Plans Announced for Highlight Celebrations
Democracy 250
September 10, 2008 12:09 PM
A fabulous showcase of musical talent for a free public concert, an 18th century costume ball and a national youth symposium involving 100 young Canadians were among the events Democracy 250 highlighted today, Sept. 10, in the countdown to Oct. 2.

Nikki Balch, Z103.5 morning host and D250 youth ambassador, kicked of a news conference at the World Trade and Convention Centre by announcing Hedley will be the headline act at D250's Rockin in the Free World concert. The concert will be held from 2 p.m. to 11:30 p.m., Sat. Sept. 27 in Halifax's Grand Parade. Other performers include ill Scarlett, Chad Hatcher, Blueberry Grunt, Samantha Robichaud, Lone Cloud and D250 youth ambassadors Jordan Croucher, Stephanie Hardy and Dwight d'Eon.

Ms. Balch said, "Hedley is one of the most popular rock bands in the country. They are a multiple-platinum selling, multiple-Juno nominated and a multi-Much Music Video Award recipient. Their new song, Old School, is at the top of the charts. Throw in a long list of other talented performers and the fact that the concert is free, and you know Grande Parade is going to be rocking."

Democracy 250 co-chair Russell MacLellan also announced a national youth symposium on youth engagement at Dalhousie University. The symposium will kick off D250's five-stop university Roller Coaster Tour from Sept. 20 to 24, with performers ill Scarlett, JSB, The Tom Fun Orchestra and Alert the Medic.

"A key objective of Democracy 250 is to reach youth with the message about the importance of getting involved in their communities and voting," said Mr. MacLellan. "The Rockin in the Free World concert, the National Youth Symposium and the university concert tour enable us to reach our target audience, to bring them into the celebrations and to encourage them to vote in coming elections."

Plans were also released for celebrations Thursday, Oct. 2, the date Canada's first parliamentary assembly met in Halifax 250 years ago.

Events planned include a traditional Mi'kmaq smudging ceremony, a special ceremonial session of the legislature, a salute and musical tribute to veterans, a Roots of Democracy art display at the Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, a sail past along Halifax Harbour led by the Bluenose II, an 18th century costume ball and a fireworks display.

Nova Scotians will also be encouraged to visit Province House to sign a giant thank you card that will be sent to Canada's military serving overseas as a show of support.

Democracy 250 co-chair John Hamm said proceeds from ticket sales for the ball will go to support the Mi'kmaq Maliseet Youth Council.

"The Mi'kmaq are the fastest growing population in our province," said Dr. Hamm. "This is a small but important gesture. Democracy 250 hopes it will acknowledge history has not always been kind to the Mi'kmaq. It is a way of showing Democracy 250 supports greater inclusiveness and greater opportunity for a segment of our population that continues to face many struggles."

For more information on these and other events, visit www.democracy250.ca or www.D250.ca .

Media Contact: Moira MacLeod
Democracy 250
902-424-1122
E-mail: macleoml@gov.ns.ca

Nova Scotia Travel Guide

noreply@blogger.com (Sean) — Thu, 17 Jul 2008 00:00:00 +0000

By Mansi Aggarwal

The international tourists might not know it but Nova Scotia is the fast up coming destination for the avid travelers. Located in the main land of Canada, it offers never-ending expanses of greenery and lots of water inlets to make it the ultimate fishing ground. Since 1604 when John Cabot found it out it has been a teeming ground for fresh water fishing. This fits well the Canadian social culture. During the 17th century the Scottish and the French businessmen traded here in fur. The Scottish influence is evident from the name it self which means ‘New Scotland’.

The tradition of the place is highly influenced by the sea and the place is studded with museums and galleries singing the lore of the seafaring individuals form the land. The feeling one gets there is nostalgic and it takes one back into the annals of ancient mariner lifestyles. The ton of beaches in the place and the scenic beauty is good enough to attract people from all around the world. The place has taken due advantage of its proximity to the sea. The surfers have actually set up, in the place, the host for the major surfing events of the world. The life saving competitions is also held along its coast lines and that has made the place a lot more popular then other coastal destinations.

As a mark of respect to the discoverer of the place, the longest travel around Nova Scotia is called the ‘Cabot trail’. The approximately 180 mile long tour of the city covers many parts and is a trip worth taking. The natural structures and the golf courses en route the trip are a pleasure watching. An amazing fact about the place is that it is because of this place that the telephone technology has developed. The place is the home land of Graham Bell. He invented the telephone.

The capital city of Halifax is the witness of the people dead in the Titanic Disaster in 1912. The bodies were brought to Halifax and the place has numerous cemeteries resting the victims of the disaster. Apart from having the historical account of almost half-a-century the city is a growing hub of modernization and an upcoming destination for development. With the advancement of Canada the place is getting much required attention.

One of the most fascinating things to see in Nova Scotia is the lighthouses around the place. Standing as the custodians of rich marine history, they stand tall to help the lone ships that loose their path in the confusing seas. The light houses provide an extraordinary sight and most tourists are attracted by them. To keep them in good shape an organisation to maintain them has also been formed. A customized tour is also designed to take the tourists to all the major lighthouses. The tour is almost along the coast line and offers much thrill to the visitors.

The cultural influence of the French and the Scottish is evident around the place. A delicate balance between the two existed for a long time and keeping in view the rich heritage and the growth prospects it is no more there. Thus Nova Scotia is truly an out of the world experience to the tourists.

Mansi aggarwal writes about Nova Scotia travel. Learn more at http://www.novascotiatouring.com