As the crisp autumn air rolls in, families across Nova Scotia are settling into their fall routines. Fall is a magical time – a fresh start with new school years, the beauty of changing leaves, and the comfort of cozy sweaters.
As we move through fall, it’s also important to pause and reflect on National Truth and Reconciliation Day on September 30th. This day provides an opportunity to honour the lost children and survivors of residential schools, as well as their families and communities. There are many events and activities happening across HRM that you can attend to learn and participate in acts of Truth and Reconciliation. I encourage everyone to take the time to engage in these important discussions and to explore ways we can contribute to the ongoing process of reconciliation in our community. For more details about events, please check out this link for information.
It’s also a season full of exciting events, and here in Dartmouth South, we have plenty to look forward to. I’m especially excited for the Nocturne Festival, an annual event that transforms both Halifax and Dartmouth into an immersive art experience. Every year, I look forward to seeing the incredible installations and performances, especially those on the Dartmouth side. One of this year’s highlights is the Dartmouth Geese on Vacation by Eastern Front Theatre. On October 19th, these geese will be waddling around Alderney Landing, ready for a staycation adventure. This is just one example of the many fantastic installations happening right here in our community.
If spooky thrills are more your style, don’t miss the Bluenose Ghosts Festival at Alderney Landing. This month-long celebration features everything from a haunted house to an escape room and crypt ride simulators, with tickets available on-site.
Looking for something family-friendly on the no-school day, October 25th? Head to the Annual Kids Pumpkin Hunt at the Dartmouth Heritage Museum’s Evergreen House. Kids can enjoy a free pumpkin hunt, Halloween crafts, and treats from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM – costumes welcome!
This fall also brings the launch of Nova Scotia’s new school lunch program, providing nutritious meals with options for allergies and exciting cultural options like Mi’kmaw, Acadian, Lebanese, and Indian dishes. The lunches are pay-what-you-can. The plan is for every student to participate, and parents can contribute nothing, something, or the full $6.50 per meal. In a time when costs are rising, it's important to know that paying nothing is okay if that’s what works best for your family. As a rule of thumb it can be helpful to estimate what your expenses are for lunches now, how much of a strain that is on your budget and plan accordingly.
For families in the HRCE, ordering opens on October 18th, and for some CSAP schools, as early as October 4th. You can order meals online at NSLunch.ca, where you can select up to 10 school days of meals at a time. Orders open every Friday at noon and close the following Wednesday at noon.
If you need help navigating the system, my office is here to assist you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out. This program is designed to give families a break, so take advantage of it this fall!
Thank you for your continued support and engagement. As always, I’m here to represent your needs in the legislature. If you have any questions, concerns, or thoughts, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I look forward to hearing from you, and I wish you all a wonderful fall season!
As always, if you need assistance, please reach out to my office at 902-406-2301 or claudiachendermla@gmail.com.
Have a wonderful weekend,
Claudia
