EverWind Fuels Hosts Public Sessions and Looks Ahead

Mark Stewart, Director of Engagement for EverWind Fuels, recently spoke with Civic Journalist Jake Boudrot about the company’s latest round of public information sessions, including one in mid-June in Guysborough.

Stewart explained that the meetings were organized to share updates and gather public feedback, and he reported strong attendance and thoughtful questions from the community.

Another session was held on June 25 at the Friends United facility in Kempt Road, where EverWind met with municipal officials and residents to provide updates on their Point Tupper project.

The company is also awaiting the arrival of new tugboats for its operations in the Strait of Canso, with a public event planned later this summer to mark the milestone. Stewart confirmed that the project remains on schedule, with several key decisions expected soon.

Concerns Over Canada Summer Jobs Grant Rejections

A number of local organizations were denied funding under the Canada Summer Jobs (CSJ) program for 2025. MP Jaime Battiste, who now represents Cape Breton-Canso-Antigonish, responded via email with some context.

Battiste explained that funding decisions were made using the electoral boundaries in place before the 2025 federal election. As such, the majority of rejected applications within the current riding were reviewed by the previous MP for the now-defunct Cape Breton-Canso district.

He noted that most approved applications in Sydney-Glace Bay, part of his former riding, were handled during his term as MP for Sydney-Victoria.

Battiste expressed hope that additional funding might become available for organizations that were initially denied. However, he emphasized that if new funds are released, final decisions will be made by the relevant federal department, not individual MPs.

Requests for comment from Sydney-Glace Bay MP Mike Kelloway, the former MP for Cape Breton-Canso, went unanswered.

Mila Roy, spokesperson for Employment and Social Development Canada, said applications for CSJ 2025 were accepted between November 19 and December 19, 2024. Applicants were notified beginning in April 2025, with updates continuing throughout the summer.

Roy explained that if approved, employers cannot fill their intended jobs, those funds may be reallocated to eligible organizations not initially selected. Employers will be notified in writing if approved for such funding.

She also emphasized that CSJ 2025 was a new application cycle, not a renewal process. The program’s objectives include providing quality work experience for youth and supporting access to the labour market, especially for youth facing barriers.

The CSJ program includes an MP Review Phase — in this case, held March 4–14 — during which Members of Parliament could review eligible projects and offer feedback before the federal election.

Roy stressed the importance of closely following the Applicant Guide, especially in demonstrating how proposed jobs meet national or local priorities.

Wildfire Preparedness Across Eastern Nova Scotia

Scott Tingley, Manager of Forest Protection with the Department of Natural Resources, spoke about a wildfire last month near Framboise in eastern Richmond County. The fire was briefly out of control, but cooler, damp weather helped crews extinguish it quickly.

Tingley praised the rapid response but acknowledged that dry, windy weather could have worsened the situation. He explained the difference between wildfires and forest fires, noting that due to hot, dry conditions, the fire index is currently elevated across Nova Scotia.

He also warned that downed trees from past hurricanes pose a significant risk as fuel for fires. His department remains on alert and is coordinating closely with municipalities and volunteer fire departments. Tingley also outlined public steps for wildfire preparedness and evacuation planning.

Funding Announced for Seniors’ Health Initiatives

The provincial government recently announced support for 41 community projects aimed at helping seniors live healthier, more active lives.

Among local recipients:

• The Dr. Kingston Memorial Community Health Centre was awarded $10,000 for a project titled Bridging Gaps in Senior Care and Volunteer Engagement. The initiative will explore unmet needs such as transportation and respite care, and identify volunteer models to enhance senior well-being and inclusion.

• Potlotek First Nation also received $10,000 for the Richmond Kisiku Centre Elder Support Project, which will offer cultural workshops, mental health support, and social activities. Workshops will include quilt-making, ribbon skirts, peak hats, and drum-making to help preserve Mi’kmaq traditions and strengthen intergenerational bonds.

New Five-Year Health Plan Unveiled by Eastern Zone CHBs

On June 21 at the Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre, Nova Scotia Health’s Eastern Zone Community Health Boards (CHBs) launched their 2025–2029 Community Health Plan.

Aron Ashton, Manager of Public Engagement and CHB Support, said the plan was informed by community feedback collected from more than 1,000 participants via local sessions, comment cards, and an online survey.

Among the top concerns: housing, food security, and income — all significant social determinants of health. Theresa MacInnis, chair of the Eastern Zone CHBs, emphasized the importance of addressing both medical and non-medical factors influencing community wellness.

Ashton explained that the plan also acts as an advocacy tool for Nova Scotia Health, the IWK, and relevant government departments. It aims to guide collaborative efforts to address shared health priorities and promote wellness through community partnerships and funding programs like the CHB Wellness Fund.

Ashton acknowledged the challenge of uniting Nova Scotia’s 35 CHBs under a single plan but called it a major step forward. He said priorities may evolve, but the plan provides a roadmap for addressing community needs over the next five years.

Literacy in Action: An Adult Learner’s Perspective

To close out the coverage, Telile Station Manager Becky Bourinot spoke with adult learner Rohan David, who shared his experience upgrading his education through the Richmond County Literacy Network. David’s journey highlights the ongoing importance of adult education and lifelong learning in rural communities.