Nova Scotia Tree Lighting in Boston

Communications Nova Scotia

December 3, 2015 2:06 PM

The Nova Scotia Tree for Boston will light up Boston Common tonight, Dec. 3, in front of about 30,000 people, including proud donors of the tree, the MacEacherns of Lorne, Pictou Co.

“We are honoured to be able to donate our tree as a gift for the people of Boston on behalf of all Nova Scotians,” said Andrea MacEachern. “We can’t believe our tree will take centre stage at this special celebration.”

The gift of a tree is a thank you to the people of Boston for the support and aid Boston provided after the Halifax Explosion on Dec. 6, in 1917.

“We have a strong relationship with Boston, one that we respect and want to foster,” said Premier Stephen McNeil. “We will never forget the kindness Bostonians showed us in a time of need and that’s why we are happy to continue this tradition.”

Last year, the mayor of Boston declared the day of the tree lighting, Nova Scotia Day. Today, that special proclamation was marked again, with the raising of the Nova Scotia flag at Boston City Hall.

“Boston’s ties to Nova Scotia emphasize the spirit of caring and giving that is celebrated worldwide during the holiday season,” said Martin J. Walsh, mayor of Boston. “The annual gift of this beloved tree symbolizes all that is good in people and our city’s long-lasting bond with Nova Scotia.”

Premier McNeil will host Boston business leaders, high school guidance counsellors, travel media and U.S. government partners at a pre-tree lighting reception at the Omni Parker House Hotel. Guests will then be led by a park ranger through the streets of Boston to the official tree lighting program.

The tree lighting program called Holiday Lights, will take place at 8 p.m. (7 p.m. in Boston) and will be televised to an estimated audience of 300,000 on WCVB Boston Channel 5, an ABC affiliate available in Atlantic Canada on cable.

Dave Gunning will be the musical guest representing Nova Scotia on the broadcast.

“I’m proud to have this opportunity to represent my home province of Nova Scotia,” said Mr. Gunning. “The boys and I are looking forward to spending a couple of nights in beautiful, historic Boston.”

Nova Scotians are encouraged to follow the ceremonies from home on social media at www.facebook.com/treeforboston or on Twitter @TreeforBoston. Nova Scotians can also watch the broadcast live via a WCVB webcast by visiting www.wcvb.com .

New Graduates, Younger Workers Wanted in the Public Service

Premier’s Office

November 13, 2015 1:26 PM

Government is committed to recruiting the next generation of workers into the Nova Scotia Public Service.

“Getting that first job is instrumental in keeping young, talented people in Nova Scotia,” said Premier Stephen McNeil. “We want young Nova Scotians and their families to know there are good job opportunities for them here at home.”

A new program, Experience Through Opportunity, announced today, Nov. 13, begins by filling 70 public service positions with new graduates and younger workers. Jobs will be advertised across the province next week.

“We need to give young workers an opportunity to build a career in Nova Scotia. I encourage all employers to make an effort to hire more young people – their enthusiasm, energy, and innovation will enrich every workplace and greatly benefit this province.”

The jobs will be posted on Career Beacon, www.careerbeacon.com, and at makeithere.novascotia.ca. The positions vary, from youth worker and library technician, to engineer and correctional officer.

For each of the next five years government will recruit younger workers for five per cent of new government hires.

“I know first-hand how difficult it can be to find a job when you’re starting your career. As a business owner, I’ve made it a priority to attract and retain young workers, and give recent graduates opportunities,” said Saeed El-Darahali, president and CEO of SimplyCast. “I am very pleased to see that the provincial government is taking steps to keep more of our young workers in Nova Scotia.”

Additionally, more co-op opportunities for university and high school students will be announced in early 2016.

“Growing up in Cape Breton, it was always important for me to spend my life close to home. Close to my family,” said Ashley Hosier, a junior engineer with the Department of Environment. “I was thrilled to find work in Nova Scotia and in my field. I would encourage other young people to consider the public service. It may mean a chance to stay in Nova Scotia, a chance to make Nova Scotia your home, or make it your home again.”

In the past two years, more than 1,000 people age 35 and under started a career with the provincial government.

For more information on the programs in place to support young workers visit makeithere.novascotia.ca. Make It Here connects Nova Scotians with government programs for education and training, and entering the workforce. It also connects employers with supports to hire or train new grads and young Nova Scotians.

2015 Scholarship for Dartmouth High Grad

In 2014 we established the scholarship to provide help to a graduating student from Dartmouth High. The choice is left to the school with few restrictions, with need being our overarching criteria.

Joanne will be on hand to make the award to this years recipient at graduation.

Between the Bridges

An innovative program to assist children in Dartmouth achieve the best possible outcomes. This may be the most important initiative aimed at improving the future of our kids in a generation.

Read more about Between the Bridges on joanne’s website click here

The Mary Kelly Scholarship 2015

The Dartmouth North Liberal Association will be presenting a scholarship to a student at Dartmouth High School again this year. A visible sign of our commitment to the youth in our community. The scholarship is named for Mary Kelly, one of our longest serving volunteers and a retired teacher in Dartmouth.

Joanne hopes to be on hand to make the presentation and see all the students move on to the next phase of their life’s journey.

Shannon Park School

At an emergency board meeting on April 15, 2015 HRSB approved the purchase of the land in which Shannon Park school resides.

This amazing event has been worked quietly on by Gin Yee, Minister Karen Casey, Minister Tony Ince and Minister Joanne Bernard for months.

Excellent news for the students, staff and parents of Shannon Park Elementary School

Sad news about Allan Rowe

Nova Scotia lost a wonderful man today. Many of us lost a funny, loyal, kind, brilliant, honest, compassionate friend. Rest well my friend … Joanne Bernard MLA

PREMIER’S OFFICE–Statement from the Premier on the Passing of Allan Rowe

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On behalf of all Nova Scotians I want to express my profound sympathies to the family of Dartmouth South MLA Allan Rowe.

Sadly, Allan passed away early today, March 16.

Allan will always be remembered for his deep commitment to community and his incredible capacity for hard work. His career path led him from the drilling rig Ocean Ranger to a long stint as a well-known radio and television broadcaster and eventually to the Legislative Assembly in 2013. He served as government caucus whip and was respected and admired by all of our members and staff.

Allan’s family has asked me to pass on their sincere appreciation to the dedicated staff at Dartmouth General Hospital and the Halifax Infirmary for their support and to thank all those who have sent their sympathies and prayers over the last three weeks.

At this very difficult time, Allan’s family has asked for privacy as they mark his passing.

Register for the 2015 Liberal AGM

The 2015 Nova Scotia Liberal Party AGM takes place May 1 to May 3, 2015.

Dartmouth North has been a strong supporter of the policy process which culminates at the AGM – along with all the fun and networking.

We invite you go join us at the Membertou Trade and Convention Centre.

Registration is now available online.

A tax receipt will be issued for the full cost of registration!!

To Register please visit http://weblink.donorperfect.com/AGM_2015