Thursday, November 15, 2012

Annual General Meeting - Nov. 19 @ 7pm at the Club

The Maskwa Aquatic Club Annual General Meeting will take place November 19th, 2012, 7pm at the Clubhouse; 
members are invited and encouraged to attend our AGM! 

The Maskwa Board of Directors is a great volunteer opportunity for interested members. At present our most pressing needs are someone to serve as Paddling Director, someone to serve as Swimming Director and someone to serve as Board Secretary. Also, Maskwa needs those willing to serve on various Board committees. If you're interested, please contact Ian Scott atcommodore@maskwa.ca. Best regards, Ian Scott Commodore

Thursday, August 23, 2012

Recipe from Parent Afternoon Social Tea

We have one week left our Maskwa and our Monday Parent Afternoon Tea. I would like to say a huge thank you oncea gain to Debbie Grantham for coordinating this weekly social for parents and

 

Reeses Squares

 
½ cup peanut butter

½ cup butter

1 cup icing sugar

1 cup graham cracker crumbs

 
Melt together peanut butter and butter, mix in icing sugar and crumbs. Press into 8X8 pan.

 
Melt together:

½ bag semi-sweet chocolate chips (350g bag)

¼ cup peanut butter

 
Spread on top, place in fridge until hard.

Friday, August 3, 2012

Gearing up to Celebrate Mark de Jonge's Olympic races

We are gearing up to celebrate next week's races for our Olympic athlete Mark de Jonge and the excitement at the club is amazing! We're celebrating on Friday with a "bring your own early bird breakfast" for 5am to watch Mark's 1st race and his semi-finals are 7am. 
Mark de Jonge posing with future Maskwa olympic hopefuls!

All day on Friday, Aug 10th it's Fun Olympic Day at Maskwa - and lunch is on us. A slice of pizza and a drink. Lot's of paddling, swimming games, tug of war and of course the candy toss!

Then on Saturday, it's going to be the Breakfast of Champions at 5am as we watch Mark go to the finals. Special thanks to McDonald's for providing breakfast for us fans!

There's been a lot happening at the club. A number of Maskwa boats qualified at Nationals so Nationals coming up August 22-25 at Lake Banook is going to be lots of fun.

Today is Friday's BBQ day and that reminds me. One of the things I love about working at Maskwa is the chance to get to know my employees, the children and the parents at the club. I wanted to say a special shout out to our Canteen Supervisor Kailey DeMone, who volunteered her time last week with Sackville's Books for Hoops fundraiser which raises funds for mental health. The BBQ Kailey helped to organize raised over $200 in a few short hours - way to go Kailey!!

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Thanks to all the Maskwa volunteers for helping make a great regatta weekend

Michelle Pugh Toole with her daughter Rileigh volunteered for
hours in the Maskwa canteen on Sunday to help out. Thanks so much gals! 
A glimpse of the crowd of people here at Maskwa for regatta weekend.
On behalf of the Board and indeed all Maskwavites, I would like to thank you all for your tremendous support this past weekend at our two regattas whether you were donating time and/or food. We received nothing but praise from the Division officials and all visiting clubs about our facilities, the logistics, the food and most importantly, the quality (and quantity!) of volunteers that made things run so smoothly. It is a real tribute to the excellence of our club and a direct result of having members like all of you!


Maskwa boys finishing war canoe on Sunday
We raised approximately $4000 this past weekend between the Canteen ($1600), the BBQ ($1500), and the fundraising for the Boat Fund ($850). Quite an accomplishment and something we can all be proud of.

Do you think we could fit another kayak somewhere?
Thanks again!

Mike Haley, Volunteer Coordinator
Maskwa Aquatic Club
835.7861 (o)  | 499.5425 (c)
maskwa1@landmark.ca

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

Mark de Jone Photo Celebration



In honor of our Olympic Athlete we've created a special photo blog of Mark de Jonge. The children enjoyed getting autographs from Mark at the special Chronicle Herald send off at the club.

Monday, July 16, 2012

Great Atom Regatta

(l-r) Annie Savoie, Talia Field, Enya Hickey
and Mia Giles getting ready for their races
Hey Maskwa people!

Jesse Scott here, I’m the one of the Atom coaches
this year and I just wanted to take this opportunity to express how much fun I had at this last regatta and how amazingly our Atoms did.
We got everyone in tons of races and the whole lot of them seemed exhausted and happy at the end, and isn’t that really the goal? On top of that, Maskwa had an incredible showing points-wise at the regatta.
Whether it’s coming 1st in Mixed War Canoe or our many ribbons in other single and team events, Maskwa made a huge splash at Sackawa! We even won the coveted “Most Points per Paddler” award and were runners up in the “Most Points Overall” category. So all in all an awesome weekend and I’m looking forward to another one at the end of the summer with Atom Champs!

Also I want to give a shout out to LA Dempster and Peter Giles who were both a gigantic help at the regatta, LA with getting kids on the water and to their races (and even finding a couple boats for us) and to Peter for basically loading the trailer for the coaches. Thanks so much guys! I’d also like to give a very special thank you to my new Assistant Coach, Brandon Pace, for his help at the regatta. I can’t pay you, but it was a great help to have you there! I'd also like to say a big thank you to all parents and helpers at the races, you make my job and the jobs of my fellow coaches much easier with all your efforts.

- Atom Coach Jesse Scott

Tuesday, July 10, 2012

Weeks of Fun Ahead at Maskwa

Look at our new Peewee paddlers get in the K-4
Well week one was great and week two is off to an even better start. The weather goddess has been smiling on us.

Canteen and Pre-order Meals:

A reminder that all Quiznos Sub and Pizza Pizza orders can be picked up from the Canteen – payment is required in full and all orders need to be in by Tuesday of each week.

Canteen specials include Tuesday Mac & Cheese day for $3.50 and Friday is our BBQ day.

When not our water the coaches play basketball and
games with the children
A number of parents asked me about summer babysitters.

Mollie MacLean, 14 is a Maskwa member. She’s looking to babysit this summer. Her number is 453-1964. She’s a grade 10 student at Halifax West High School and has her babysitting course. She can also be reached by email at rilla.macleod@ns.sympatico.ca.

This weekend is the Atom regatta – please check the regatta schedule under our paddling program for detailed information on more upcoming regattas.

Two Regattas at Maskwa:

We are seeking volunteers for Maskwa’s two regattas on Saturday, July 21 and Sunday, July 22. We are looking for volunteers to help with parking from 8am-12pm and 12pm-3pm, Canteen volunteers from 9am-3pm, BBQ volunteers from 11am-2pm and parents willing to make vegetable salads and cold salads or desserts to help feed our 25 judges and safety boat volunteers.

If willing to volunteer please email our Volunteer Coordinator – Mike Haley at mhaley@landmark.ca

We will also be looking for parents to donate pop, water, chips, snack food etc. Stay tuned for an email from each paddling division.


Gordon MacLeod Memorial Fund:

One of Gord’s last wishes was to see a large grassy area created which would provide more play space for the children at Maskwa. We are seeking donations for this fund which is estimated to be about $6,000. We are working on getting a mock-up of the area we are proposing to create so please stay tuned. This area will be located behind the

Friday, June 8, 2012

23 Days until Maskwa Opens


My daughter woke me up this morning by saying, "Mom  23 days until Maskwa days." Wow! My first thought was at 6am it's way too early to process that and my second was how cute it is she's so excited. I should preference my daughter is seven, turning eight this year, so she'll be a first year Atom paddler. She's very excited about paddling as an Atom as her three brothers all paddled. So, as I'm cooking up an egg bagel for my oldest who insisted he needs protein for his two tests this morning and packing up their lunches for school, my mind was still reeling with the realization that really in three weeks Maskwa opens.

I drove into the sunny parking lot. Briefly chatted with a friend of mine who was getting ready to walk her dog and who this year is joining the club with her youngest starting as an Atom paddler and I thought, one - I'm so lucky to work here and two, my children are so lucky to have this outdoor summer facility.

Summer is short in NS but when you're at Maskwa your children are out all day. When I tell people my children paddle from 9:30am-2:30pm with a 30-minute lunch break I often get asked if that's to much. For my children it's not. I can't seem to get them to leave even around 5:30pm.


Maskwa is our cottage. When not paddling my children are swimming in the private lifeguarded beach area, playing basketball, making sandcastles, or going for hikes with friends. What more could I want for a summer for them? They're active, outdoors and with friends. A perfect summer recipe.

I had to take these pictures of the calm waters this morning. I know in a few short weeks our empty docks won't be empty and I can't wait.

Mark your calendars for a FREE for all Maskwa Day - this is your chance to get your neighbour to come down to see the club and try paddling!

FREE for all - Maskwa Aquatic Club Fun Day, Saturday, June 23 3pm-7pm. No membership required and there’s something for all ages. Try paddling on Kearney Lake in a war canoe, dragon boat, kayak or kiddie kayak for young children (5-7 years). Join us for a swim & FREE BBQ courtesy of M&M Meats.  www.maskwa.ca



 

Monday, June 4, 2012

Maskwa's Mark de Jonge receives Ricoh Award

June 3, 2012 - 4:12am              By MONTY MOSHER Sports Reporter

Alta Gymnast Ellie Black and paddler Mark de Jonge, both of Halifax, took top honours Saturday at the 16th annual Ricoh Sports Awards, which recognize the best in Nova Scotia amateur athletics.

Black and de Jonge are both contenders for the 2012 Olympics in London. The 16-year-old Black will compete for her spot on Canada’s gymnastics team later this month in Gatineau, Que., while de Jonge, who is coming back strong from a broken finger in April, will get his chance at the final Canadian trials in Montreal.

Black was in against track star Jenna Martin and sailor Danielle Dube. Dube has been nominated to the Olympic team and Martin is a good bet to be in London.

“I was surprised,” Black said in an interview following the ceremony in Halifax. “It was amazing.”
Paddlers Mariah Godin of Dartmouth and Emily Riddle of Porters Lake are the team of the year.

Hockey player Alexis Crossley of Cole Harbour is the female team athlete of the year and paddler Connor Taras of Waverley the male team athlete of the year.

Waverley’s Czom Latorovski (paddling) is the top coach. Warren Nethercote of Boutiliers Point is the top official for his work in sailing and the Truro Lions athletics program won for top association.

Sport Makes a Difference Awards went to New Minas judo athlete Jessica Hale and the Millbrook Warriors lacrosse program. Middleton’s Al Peppard, who is originally from Truro, took the Sport Nova Scotia Chair Award.

Black missed the first half of the 2011 season after surgery for a dislocated and broken toe. She came back late in the year, but dislocated her elbow and fractured her thumb at a competition in France.She battled back again to finish first on vault, third on beam and ninth all around at the Elite Canada competition in February. She followed that up in March at the Gymnix International where she finished second all around, first on vault, second on beam and fourth on floor.

“If the first injury had not healed properly then I might not have been able to do gym any more,” she said. “Coming back from that and having to deal with another injury was really hard, but to push through and have people supporting me through that and to come this far, even that is just such a great accomplishment.”

The Citadel High student has continued her burst toward London with four gold medals in April in international competitions in Brazil and Croatia.

“So far this year has been amazing,” said Black. “Every opportunity has just been the best thing that has happened so far.”

The 28-year-old Mark de Jonge, a civil engineer, came back to sprint kayaking in 2011 after a short absence and was racing toward London when a training accident left him sidelined for a series of recent World Cup events.

He was sixth at the world championships in Hungary in the K-1 200 last year, qualifying Canada for the Olympics in the event. He followed up with a bronze medal last summer at the Olympic test event in London. At a World Cup regatta in Duisburg, Germany, he finished third in the K-1 200 and second in the K-1 4x200m relay.

Godin and Riddle combined to win the C-2 500 at the inaugural world junior women’s canoe championships in Germany. Crossley was the lone Nova Scotian on Canada’s gold-medal team at the IIHF under-18 world women’s championships in the Czech Republic and also won national gold at Shattuck-St. Mary’s prep school in Minnesota.

Taras earned a silver medal at the Pan American Games as a member of Canada's K-4 1,000 team.
Latorovski has been coaching for 34 years and has helped numerous paddlers to the top of the sport.

Nethercote is a 30-year sailing official who also won the award in 2004-05. The highlight of his year was being selected as a member of the international jury for the 2011 Etchells world championships in San Diego.

The Truro Lions, led by coach Paul Millman, broke provincial records last summer. In July, the Lions became the only Athletics Nova Scotia club to have two athletes on a national team when Kayla Gallagher and Peter Millman earned spots on Canada’s World Youth Games team.

Also congratulations to Maskwa's congratulations Alexa Irvin who was nominated in the top women's
category.

Friday, June 1, 2012

13 Paddlers from Maskwa Competing Atlantic Team Trials


You know it's paddling season when the coaches start to load the boat trailers with the kayaks! This weekend Maskwa Aquatic Club has 13 paddlers competing in the Atlantic Team Trials on Lake Banook. Let's cheer them on: Nathan Haley, Nathan MacKinnon, Jacob Steele, Nelson Field, Matthew Beaver, Matt Clahane, David Webster, Matt Coutts, Keelan Earle, Leah Jessop, Nicole Jessop, Katie Jerrett, and Ciara Jerrett. Look for the Maskwa boats on the lake in Darmouth this weekend.

Friday, May 25, 2012

Maskwa's Athlete Jillian Steele Receives Prestigious Award

Last night one of Maskwa Aquatic Club’s long-time members, Jillian Steele received a prestigious award by the Zonta Club of Halifax. Every year the Zonta Club of Halifax awards a student in grade 12 a scholarship to recognize women’s leadership in public policy, government, schools and community volunteer organizations. I had the distinct pleasure of attending this event and was thrilled to see Jillian Steele receive this $1,000 award at the local level.  Jillian’s application has been forwarded to the district level where she’ll have the chance to receive a further $1,000 and if successful at the district level she will be considered for the international award of $3,000.

Jillian, a Sacred Heart School of Halifax grade 12 student has a long list of volunteer work in her resume. I would like to highlight a few. She is a dancer and singer and performs with Maritime Dance Performance Group, as a community volunteer she works in the warehouse of her local food bank each week, a cantor at her church and sings mass weekly. In 2009 she was recognized by HRM with a Citizenship Award. As an international development worker, Jillian traveled to rural Kenya with Free the Children where she helped build a school for young children. Jillian described this trip as a “life-changing experience.” She now describes her ultimate goal as becoming a doctor and ``opening a medical clinic in a rural community in Kenya where there is limited access to health care.” In her school Jillian was the Secretary of the Student Council in Grade 11, and this year she is both the Grade 12 Representative on the Student Council and the Head of the Prom Committee. As an athlete, Jillian is a member of the school’s soccer team and a competitive kayaker at Maskwa Aquatic Club. Last year in the National Paddling Competition in Ontario, Jillian received a medal for the K4 (kayaking) event. She attended the 2008 and the 2009 International Children’s Games in San Francisco, and in Athens, Greece. The goal of these games is to promote peace and friendship through sports to the world’s youth.
To quote from one of the judges, “She is a future leader and a young woman who will truly make a difference.”  Congratulations Jillian, we at Maskwa are very proud of you!


Wednesday, May 23, 2012

HRM Meeting - Future of Blue Mountain Birch Cove Lakes

We have just learned that HRM Staff and Chebucto Community Council will be hosting a Public Meeting on the future of Blue Mountain Birch Cove Lakes Regional Park at St Peters Church Hall, Dakin Drive and Kearney Lake Rd at the Bedford Highway. Come early (6:30 PM) to look at some new maps.

Halifax North West Trails has been involved since the early discussions about the proposed Regional Park and is excited to share that progress is being made.  HRM Staff and the Protected Areas Branch of NS Environment have been discussing a Grand Vision for the Regional Park and will be making a presentation at 7:00 PM followed by Q&A.  Next steps will be crafted over the next few months. Please come out and support this event.  We need strong (overwhelming) public support to convince HRM Regional Council that we are ready to move ahead to make the Regional Park a reality!!

See you on May 31st and bring your friends and neighbours so they can learn about this future park, destined to be the largest near-urban Wilderness Park in Canada!

This link with 3 Draft maps and more details was posted on May 22 by HRM. http://www.halifax.ca/RealPropertyPlanning/bluemountainbirchcovelakes.html
The scope of the proposed park and process to achieve its creation will be the focus of the meeting. We hope that the meeting will be informative and hope to see you there.
Please feel free to forward this information on to others.

Bob McDonald, Chair
Halifax North West Trails
www.HalifaxNorthWestTrails.ca

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Registration up and running on-line and news from Clayton Park MLA

Hi everyone:
Registration is up and running on the Maskwa home page or through the Registration links. Please click on the member option to register for basic Maskwa membership, paddling, swimming. To register for non-programs like Associate Membership (this is designed for one person at one address for after hour use and weekend only use at the club), day camp, kiddie kayak for non-members click on the non-member link. Any questions don't hesitate to call me at 443-0178 ext: 221.

I'm in the office most days from 9am-2pm. I'm back in tonight from 6pm-7:30pm.

In this blog I'm listing some of the news from Clayton-Park, MLA Diana Whalen

Greetings!
Spring is in the air and there are a lot of events coming up in our area. I hope you will find this e-newsletter interesting and please feel free to share it with your friends and contacts. 

Welcoming new Canadians at Rockingham School in May.

I have attended two wonderful Canadian Citizenship Ceremonies this month - one at Rockingham School and the other at the Canadian Games Centre. Both were very emotional for for all who participated. At Rockingham School each new Canadian was presented with a book of student poems and essays about being Canadian! 

The Legislature has just wrapped up. Power rate increases and education cuts at the Primary to Grade 12 level dominated our discussions. At my office I have a petition against the proposed power rate increases and I welcome you to drop by and sign it.  The online version of this petition has over 30,000 signatures to date!

If you know of an event you would like to have included in upcoming e-newsletters, please let my office know at 443-8318. 

I look forward to seeing you in the community!



Hike to Susies Lake with MLA Diana Whalen
The planned expansion of Bayers Lake Business Park is bringing the Blue Mountain Birch Cove Lakes Wilderness back into the news. The expansion will lead to a proper parking lot and trail to Susies Lake but land that is currently forest will soon be part  of the shopping district.
Join MLA, Diana Whalen, on June 14th for an evening hike into the wilderness behind Bayers Lake and see the area for yourself. Susies Lake itself is truly beautiful! 

Susies Lake

The hike will be lead by members of the Halifax North West Trails Association. Please plan to join us and bring your family and friends. This is a great way to see part of the wilderness area, on our doorstep, that was protected by the province in 2009.
Date: Thursday June 14, 2012
Time: Meet at 6:30 p.m .
Where: Parking lot located on Susies Lake Crescent (off Chain Lake Drive - beside the Burger King)
Wear good footwear as this is a forest trail.  The walk will take about an hour and a half. I hope to see you there!


Important Public Meeting on the future of Blue Mountain Birch Cove Lakes
What: Public Meeting hosted by HRM Staff and the Chebucto Community Council to discuss the future of the BMBCL wilderness area.
Where: St. Peter's Church Hall (Kearney Lake Rd at the Bedford Highway)
When: Thursday, May 31st at 6:30 p.m.
It's  important to have a strong showing of support at the meeting to  illustrate that our community cares about this wilderness area and wants  to keep it in tact. I hope you, your friends and your neighbours can  join me.

Diversity Photography Contest
The FUSION Halifax Immigration & Diversity Action Team has launched a Diversity Photo Contest, with the theme "Express Yourself. Do It, Do.," open now until June 1, 2012. They want to know what diversity in HRM looks like through your eyes, and multicultural Clayton Park is a wonderful example of diversity in Halifax!

The top prize is $500, and the contest is open to residents of HRM. People of all ages and with all levels of photography skills are encouraged to participate.

For more information, please visit their website, and to submit your photo, email it to diversityphotocontest@fusionhalifax.ca.

Neighbourhood Clean Ups
On June 8th and 9th, Clean Nova Scotia will be coordinating the largest single cleanup in Nova Scotia - 'Clean Across Nova Scotia' is part of a larger movement which aims to tackle issues of litter and illegal dumping through an unprecedented global action known as "Let's do it!: World Cleanup 2012". The goal worldwide is to engage 300 million participants in 100 countries worldwide by September 2012, and Clean Nova Scotia is aiming for 25,000 participants across NS. Let's make Clayton Park a part of that!

For more information and to register a clean up in our area, please visit their website or contact my office.


Public Meeting on Prescription Drug Abuse
On May 26th a public meeting on prescription drug abuse in adolescents held from 1-3 p.m. at the Bedford Lion's Den, Lebrun Centre (36 Holland Avenue, Bedford). This is a very important issue as deaths relating to prescription drug abuse in young people is an increasing problem all across Nova Scotia.
Topics:Hear how prescription drug abuse has affected the lives of others
Talk about how this problem has affected your life
Discuss what action needs to be taken to prevent more unnecessary deaths
Learn how you can protect your children
Help shine a light on this critical issue
Speakers will include parents and siblings who lost loved ones to the dangerous combination of prescription pills and alcohol. 

North West Trails Association Kiosk at Canada Games Centre

The North West Trails Association is excited to announce the unveiling of a new kiosk in front of the Canada Games Centre. The kiosk will feature maps of trails in the area and will help our community get out and experience the beautiful trails we're lucky to have in the area.
To celebrate this accomplishment, the Trails Association will host a special "Kiosk Unveiling" at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 2nd. There will be refreshments followed by a short walk around the Mainland Common to show new improvements made to the Mainland Common Loop Trail. The group will be back to the kiosk site by noon.
For more information on the Trails Association and their summer hikes, beginning in June, please visit www.halifaxnorthwesttrails.ca.

Upcoming Community Events
African BBQ Fundraiser and Soccer Skills Competition
Join the African Diaspora Association of Nova Scotia, Soccafrique and Soccachique on Monday, May 21st (Victoria Day) at the Rockingham Community Centre (199 Bedford Highway) from 4-8 p.m. for a fundraising BBQ and soccer skills competition. Plates are $10. Try grilled tilapia, grilled chicken, veggie samosas, rice, stew and salad. For more information, call 404-3670 or email settlementservices@adamns.ca. All are welcome!

Rockingham School Spring FairÉcole Rockingham School will host their annual spring fun fair on Saturday, May 26th from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at 31 Tremont Drive. There will be games, a bouncy castle and a yard sale - all are welcome!

"Let's Talk #105" With Geoff ReganJoin Halifax West MP Geoff Regan for an open discussion at Rockingham United Church Hall (12 Flamingo Drive) on Saturday, May 26th. Open discussion from 10-11 a.m. followed by individual appointments from 11-12 p.m. Contact Geoff's office at 426-2217 or  geoff@geoffregan.ca for more information.

Mosaic Ministries Free Community DinnerMosaic Ministries is hosting a dinner of corned beef and cabbage, as well as coffee and tea, at the Fairview Salvation Army (50 Gesner Drive) on Saturday, May 26th at noon. All welcome!

Contact Information
Phone: 902-443-8318
Email: whalendc@gov.ns.ca
Website: www.dianawhalen.com

Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Dragon Boat Information

Hello Maskwa Members,


My name is Chris Haley. For those of you who do not know me I am a coach at Maskwa Aquatic Club as well as the Dragon Boat Program manager. I’m emailing you in regards to the up-coming 2012 dragon boat season right around the corner.

This program will provide paddlers of all levels the opportunity to participate in a fun activity that incorporates physical fitness in a social gathering type atmosphere. Paddlers young or old, members or non-members,  competitive or recreational are all welcome to enjoy this Maskwa Dragon Boat program.
 
The program will run from late May to late September, commencing on Wednesday May 30th  at 7pm. We are planning now to run 2 sessions a week (Wednesdays 7-8pm and Sundays 10-11 am). We are charging $8 per individual session, $60 for 10-session punch cards, or $125 for a full program membership.
 
This is our second year of the program, and we are hoping to see more members out on the water this season! Dragon Boating is an excellent way to stay in shape, meet some new people, and have fun! If you are interested in participating in this program it would be greatly appreciated if you could reply to this email expressing your interest.

If you have any questions in regards to the program do not hesitate to contact me at maskwadragonboat@landmark.ca or 835-3592.

Thanks and see you on the water!

Chris Haley, Manager
Maskwa Dragon Boat




Monday, May 7, 2012

Thank you Volunteers




Special thanks to the hard working volunteers who came to the club on Saturday to help lend a hand getting the grounds ready. Thanks to Ian, Karen and Jesse Scott, John Moore, Stephen MacMurray - huge thanks for getting the basketball net fixed, Jody Pace, Brian Jessop, and Mary and Nico Negulic. If I'm missing anyone, I do apologize.
Reminder this Saturday, May 12 from 9am-2pm Maskwa is hosting an Open House. Drop down to the club to register for 2012 summer programs. Coffee provided by Starbucks.

Monday, April 30, 2012

Tropical Twist & Shout Auction and Dance - this coming Sat night

Hi everyone:
Maskwa's new website is up at www.maskwa.ca (click refresh or the old site will still come up). Also our registration will be on-line next week and the great news is you can pay in installments and on-line.

I'm send this out as a reminder - great fundraiser for great cause. I've booked it and can't wait to get out for a change.

Tropical Twist & Shout- Auction and Dance - May 5, 2012
Q104’s Bob Powers will host the first-annual Tropical Twist & Shout -Auction and Dance Playground Fun-raiser . It’s a fun night-out with a tropical twist: Enjoy an entertaining evening complete with raffle, light appetizers, impressive silent auction, and live auction with auctioneer. Then dance into the sunset with DJ Bruce Johnson. Prizes include a family getaway to Atlantica Hotel and Marina Oak Island, a trip for two to Florida and much, much more! All proceeds from the event go to the Grosvenor-Wentworth Park School playground improvement project. Purchase your tickets or get more information by calling 401-6787, e-mailing egwps.playground@gmail.com or at the door. We’ll see you there!
Location: BMO Centre, Bedford
When: Saturday, May 5, 2012. Doors open at 7pm.

Monday, April 16, 2012

Tropical Twist & Shout Auction and Dance in support of Grosvenor-Wentworth Park Elementary

Hi everyone:
Grosvenor-Wentworth Park Elementary has organized this fun fundraiser to help raise much needed money for their new playground. It's a great night out, lots of prizes, silent auction and chance to win a trip to Florida. Really what more could you ask for!

Tropical Twist & Shout Auction and Dance,
Saturday, May 5th, 7pm, at the BMO Centre

We have put together an 'auction to remember' with loads of fun items including weekend getaways, camps for kids, fine dining, golf packages and more, a DJ and dance will follow. The evening will be hosted by Q104's Bob Powers and all proceeds support a great cause-a much needed new playground for our school and community at Grosvenor-Wentworth Park Elementary.

Please feel free to pass on the invite to anyone you know who enjoys a good auction or dance! Tickets are $20 and available at the school or from Amy McEvoy at egwps.playground@gmail.com or call me at 446-2528.

Thank you for your support!

Saturday, April 14, 2012

2 Racing Kayaks for sale at Maskwa

Hi everyone:
Our new website will be up by next week and our new on-line registration will be up by the end of April.

Here are two racking kayaks for sale at the club:

Item: Kayakpro Aurum K-1 size M
Description: Orange and white, 3 years used, still in good condition. Good fast, first boat.
Cost: $1100 (includes boat cover)
Contact: ciarajerrett@eastlink.ca
457-3266

Item: Hody-Sport K-1 size M
Description: All carbon boat, really good construction. Good first boat.
Cost: $1200
Contact: Blair Jerrett bjerrett@eastlink.ca
457-3266

Wednesday, March 28, 2012

Maskwa Fundraiser/Update on Camps/Get together to honor Gordon MacLeod

Get together to Honor the Passing of Gordon MacLeod:
We have all lost a dear friend with the death of Gordon MacLeod. Gordon was a life long volunteer at the Club and worked tirelessly to better the Club experience for all. It's been difficult for all of us so we thought it would be good to informally gather and share our thoughts and stories about Gord.
With this in mind, we've reserved the Pub Room of Winston's Pub & Eatery in Clayton Park as a gathering point this coming Friday March 30th from 6 pm to 9 pm.Formerly the old Copper Penny, Winston's is located at 278 Lacewood Drive in the strip-mall next to the Shopper's Drug Mart.
Maskwa has a great fundraiser coming up:
It’s a Flamenco Latin Night with live dance performance, dancing and door prizes.
When: Saturday, April 21
Where: MicMac A.A.C – 192 Prince Albert Rd., Dartmouth
Time: Doors open at 8pm Dance Performance 8:30-9:15pm – then dance the night away with DJ
Music 9:30-midnight!
Latin vibe entertainment with DJ Junior and DJ eski.
Price $20/per ticket
For every ticket sold Maskwa earns $10.
Call Renee Field, Club Manager, Maskwa Aquatic Club at 443-0178 ext: 221 or email manager.maskwa@gmail.com to order tickets.
Some basic information on our Maskwa Adventure Recreational Day Camps:
Hours: 8:30am-4:30pm
Price: $195/per child/per week
Maximum: 30 children with 2 day camp instructors/per week
Ages: 8-11 years
Activities: Mix of on-water and off-water activities.
Children will be on-water in small boats (k-1,k-2 or k-4) from 9:30-11am and then back on water in the larger boats like the dragon boat or war canoes (team events) from 1pm-2:30pm.
Each week will be a themed week: super hero/adventure/hawaiian etc. The children will be doing hiking/crafts/and other sport activities like swimming and volleyball throughout the week.
Please do check back toward the end of April for detailed registration which will be on-line and this year payment can be made on-line. Our camps tend to fill up quickly.

Monday, March 26, 2012

Maskwa update

A big special thank you 'shout out' goes to John Moore and his friend who spent the weekend filling in the very large pot holes. What a huge difference to drive along the road to the club without feeling like I'm about to ruin all my shocks! Thanks so much.
I'm getting a lot of inquiries about registration.
1. Registration will be on-line this year. That will include payment options on line also and we're hoping to have that up by the end of April.
2. Maskwa Open House will take place on Sat., May 12 from 9am-2pm at the club. This will be your chance if you haven't registered to pop down to the club to register in person - on-line using one of our computer assistant people-pay if you're not paying on-line and purchase any new paddling gear like lifebelts/singlets/buns.
3. The High Performance paddlers doing spring training have hit the waters. A reminder if your child in participating in the HP program to pass in your Cold Water forms to coach Jordan Coyle. They are reminded to dress appropriately for the weather and come prepared to run every day. And to show off our group on water - check out the pic. This is the earlist ever they have hit the water on Kearney Lake. The picture was taken on March 22 - last week when the temp rose.

Monday, March 19, 2012

Hi everyone:
Below is an update for our local Councillor Debbie Hum about upcoming events, issues in our area.


My District 16 newsletter is undergoing final draft changes and further updates. It should be ready to be sent out to residents in April. So much is happening in our community and is ever-changing. If you would like to individually subscribe to my electronic email updates please contact me humd@halifax.ca or my assistant Melody at campbem@halifax.ca. If you do not want to receive them, please also let either of us know. I'm on Facebook and post regularly on news and events happening in HRM and our community. Also I'm posting updates on HRM website - councillors' page.

For those residents who were away this month, including school March break, it's back to regular work week for many, school and sport activity routines. But the lovely weather expected this week gives us reason to celebrate, embrace spring and all that is good in our community! Cheers, /Debbie

WHAT'S HAPPENING?! 1) NS Commission Seeks Public Input on Provincial Electoral Boundaries novascotia.ca NOTE: HRM residents - 1st round of public consultation The public consultation session was held Sat. Mar 17th, 1 - 3 p.m. @ Quality Inn, Parkland Drive. This was the 1st round of community consultations. I attended Saturday's public session, and heard a number of presenters from the greater community speak to the Commission panel members on provincial electoral boundaries. The Commission also announced another Halifax public consultation session is to be held April 12, but location and time to be confirmed. For more information please go to the link provided below: http://www.gov.ns.ca/news/details.asp?id=20120301005

2) Metro Transit strike - It's over! A 5 year contract has been accepted and ratified by ATU and HRM Regional Council. We understand it's been a difficult 6 weeks for many residents. For that I apologize. As March break comes to an end Metro Transit buses incl Access A Buses, and ferries have resumed full service. For information on contract agreement details, answers to your questions and concerns can be found by going to HRM website: http://www.halifax.ca/metrotransit/strikeinformation.html#topPlease also feel free to contact me with your questions and comments.

3) * WED. MARCH 21 HRM PUBLIC INFORMATION MEETING - CASE 17002 Rockingham South development proposal (former radio transmitter lands) This is a rezoning and development agreement processPIM to be held Wednesday March 21, 7 p.m. St. Benedicts Church hall 45 Radcliffe Dr. HRM Notices have been distributed to property owners within a wide notification area in District 16 and District 10, as well as apartment units in closer proximity to the radio transmitter lands. If you didn't receive an official PIM notice, and interested in finding out more information on the development proposal, and perhaps attending the PIM, please log on to HRM website: http://www.halifax.ca/planning/Case17002Details.html

4) HRM REGIONAL PLAN 5 year REVIEW & PUBLIC CONSULTATIONS NOW UNDERWAY. For more information and full list of dates & locations of upcoming public consultation check out HRM website: http://halifax.ca/planhrm/RP5.htmlRP+5 Public Consultation MeetingsPhase I Public consultation is vital to the Regional Plan 5 Year Review as it will shape recommendations to Council. The consultations will focus on what has changed and how key policies need to address current challenges and future opportunities. Each meeting will begin with a 30 minute Open House, followed by a presentation and community discussion. All are welcome!March 19, 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm St. Margaret's Centre - Rooms 1 & 2, 12 Westwood Blvd, Upper TantallonMarch 21, 6:30 - 9:00 pm Atlantica Hotel - Guild Hall, 1980 Robie Street, Halifax*March 26, 6:30 - 9:00 pm Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU)- Rosaria Student Centre, 166 Bedford Highway, Halifax*Online live-streaming available; details to be provided closer to event. Join us for one of the these events, or connect with us on Twitter @PlanHRM, or facebook.com/PlanHRM, to engage in conversation on the future of HRM.

5) CASE 17082 - Bedford South/Wentworth Estates Emscote lands NOTICE OF UPCOMING PUBLIC HEARING Chebucto Community Council Mon. Apr 2nd, 7 p.m. Keshen Goodman Library RequestApplication by Emscote Limited to enter into a development agreement to permit a mixed use residential subdivision at Neighbourhood F and the Mixed Use Business Campus of Wentworth/Bedford South in Halifax. Please see links below for additional information on Case 17082 planning application http://www.halifax.ca/planning/Case17082Details.html and link to HRM staff report to Chebucto Community Council March 5th. http://www.halifax.ca/Commcoun/ccc/documents/120305ccc1011.pdf

6) NOTICE TO RESIDENTS SISTERS OF CHARITY (MOTHERHOUSE) LANDS SOUTHWEST PROPERTIES INVITES RESIDENTS TO ATTEND AN UPCOMING Community Information Session /Open House(See attached PDF letter to residents) HOSTED BY SOUTHWEST PROPERTIES DATE: Wednesday April 11TIME: 2-4 p.m. and 6-8 p.m. WHERE: St Benedict's Church hall 45 Radcliffe DrAll welcome! For information, questions or comments please contact: motherhouse@Southwest.ca Note: THERE HAS BEEN NO APPLICATION MADE TO HRM ON THE FUTURE DEVELOPMENT OF THE SISTERS OF CHARITY LANDS. April 11th PIM /OPEN HOUSE is NOT an HRM hosted or sponsored Public Information Meeting.

7) Mainland Halifax North - Bedford Corridor Transportation and Waste Water Servicing Strategy Report (514 Kb) Presentation (858 Kb) http://www.halifax.ca/council/agendasc/documents/120228ca1021.pdf http://www.halifax.ca/council/agendasc/documents/120228ca1021pres.pdf Due to the ongoing and future development that is currently underway or expected in areas of Bedford and Birch Cove/Rockingham, HRM staff and Regional Council recently endorsed that a servicing strategy be initiated for the Bedford - Mainland Halifax North Corridor toestimate transportation and wastewater services upgrades needed to service future growthwith associated costs and suggested means of finance; and2. Further public consultation on all development proposals referenced in the January 12,2012staff report which require plan amendments, be deferred until the servicing study has beencompleted. (see links above for details pertaining to this planning initiative. NOTE: the former radio transmitter lands proposal and planning process is proceeding through public consultation and staff review for reasons noted in the staff report.

8) HRM District Boundaries - Effective October municipal and school board election, HRM is reduced from 23 districts to 16. There are significant district boundary changes for our area in addition to school board district boundary changes. For more information please log on HRM's website and link to: http://www.halifax.ca/BoundaryReview/index.html HRM Municipal and School Board election - to be held October 20, 2012. For more information please go to HRM website www.halifax.ca link to: http://halifax.ca/election/index.html



Warm regards, /Debbie Councillor Debbie HumDistrict 16 Rockingham - WentworthPO Box 1749Halifax, NS B3J 3A5 490-6807 (Work Phone) 476-7212 (Cell Phone)490-4050 (Council Office)490-4122 (Fax)To get on the distribution list for the District 16 e-mail newsletter or email updates, send email to campbem@halifax.ca with the words Newsletter List in the subject line. Addresses will not be shared; they will be used for this purpose only.

Friday, March 9, 2012

Hats off to Mark de Jonge


There are a number of things I’d like to share on the blog this morning.

1. First hats off to our own Mark de Jonge for winning the men’s 200m in Portugal. Mark is 27 years old and has one more race to qualify for the Olympics in London, England this coming summer. Here's a link to a (not very high quality) video of the race: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m_uf47XRIyc . I think we must have a celebratory event at Maskwa once Mark gets back to celebrate and show him our support.

2. Locally the MLA boundaries are up for review and our MLA Kelly Regan and MLA Diana Whalen for Clayton-Park sent me the following as a FYI. Brief information is below.

After each census, the province selects a commission and gives it terms of reference. Boundaries often change because of population changes, and the areas you live and work in are two of the fastest growing areas in the province. Halifax - Clayton Park and Bedford - Birch Cove are the two fastest growing ridings, and we have the largest number of electors - almost 5,000 above the maximum the province is aiming for.
Both Diana and I recognize our ridings are going to change a lot. I wanted to bring this issue to your attention because I thought your neighbourhood association might have some opinions on what parts of the riding should be together - what we call "a community of interest." You can make a presentation to the Commission (all the HRM dates are during
March Break) or you can send them an email submission. You can find the information about the hearings at http://www.gov.ns.ca/news/details.asp?id=20120301005. You can find more information on the commission (including how to make a submission) at http://nselectoralboundaries.ca/ . They'll bring back their interim report on May 31st. If you don't like it, you can object then. If you do like it, you should say so -- because changes in other ridings unhappy with their new boundaries could change ours.

3. I’m attempting to plan a Spring Craft Market at Maskwa which will coincide with a
local residential yard sale. If you would like to book a table they are $50 + tax. We are currently looking at the date around mid-May at the club. Date will be determined asap.

4. Open House – Mark your calendars for the Maskwa Open House on Saturday, May 12 starting
9am-2pm at the club.
5. Maskwa is looking to rent out its kitchen. For more details email Renee Field, Club Manager at manager.maskwa@gmail.com.

Monday, February 13, 2012

Great Maskwa Auction & Seeking Caterer

What a great Maskwa Auction on Saturday at Brewsters in Bedford. I judged over 50 people showed up to help support the fundraising initiatives for the high performance paddlers heading off to Florida for spring training. Over $5,700 was raised for the families attempting to raise money for their athletes. This would not be possible without the generous support of the Maskwa community at large, including the local HRM councillors who showed up to enjoy the afternoon with us. And, a huge thanks to all the parents, councillors, MLAs and businesses/organizations for their generous donation of supplies and goods for the auction.

This is a warning that with the freezing rain the driveway coming into the club is very icy and bumpy and the walkway around the deck into the gym is also icy. Please drive slow and walk carefully.

Today, I finally finished filling out the on-line application for federal summer jobs. This gets me excited because I love the thought of being able to hire youth and it gets my mind thinking of the upcoming summer. I’m officially counting the months now.

I wanted to also mention that Maskwa is in the process of securing a Caterer for the 2012 season. An ad was placed in The Chronicle-Herald on Saturday and it’s also listed on Kijji. I’ve included the specs below in case member of the Maskwa community might know of someone best suited for our club. Thanks everyone.

Maskwa Seeks Caterer
Located just off picturesque Kearney Lake in Halifax, Maskwa Aquatic Club is a paddling and swimming club which has over 800 members using the facility from July1st to the end of August. During the off-season from September to June the facility is used daily for Crossfit training and nightly for Judo. Maskwa is currently looking to secure a full-time caterer wishing to use the kitchen on a yearly basis who would also manage the summer canteen at the club.

Specs:
425 sq.feet
Convection oven
Industrial dishwasher
Upright freezer + smaller freezer
Ice machine
Cash register
Rental price includes (heat/power/water/cleaning of shared common areas/snow removal/dumpster fees)

Must have:
1 million liability insurance
Experience working in catering business and willingness to grow business clientele for off season at the club

Rental: $1,200/monthly + HST

Interested please contact Renee Field, Club Manager, Maskwa Aquatic Club at 902-443-0178 ext: 221 or email: manager.maskwa@gmail.com for more details.

Friday, February 3, 2012

Our Biggest Ever Auction Fundraiser!

Saturday, February 11 4-7pm - Brewster's Bar & Grill

Join all your summer Maskwa friends for an evening of fun, food and amazing deals! Warm up our chilly winter at this reunion at: Brewster's Bar & Grill, 961 Bedford Highway (in the Sobeys Plaza).

Viewing at 3:30pm
$5 Admission for auction - Children FREE


All proceeds in support of the Maskwa High Performance Paddling Team Florida Training Camp.

Amazing deals on a giant range of items, including:
- A Sidney Crosby Autographed Penguins Jersey
- Goodlife membership & personal trainer session
- Spa certificates
- Halifax Rainmen tickets, museum passes, This Hour Has 22 Minutes package
- Brand-name clothing & much more

Monday, January 30, 2012

Young Maskwa Paddler, Jakob Conrad Raises Money for The Gambia



Hi everyone:


I wanted to share this story about one of Maskwa's own paddlers.


Jakob Conrad is 10 years old and already thinking about ways that he can make a difference. For the second year in a row, Jakob’s Twoonies from Toubabs fundraising campaign will help fund lifesaving education and health initiatives in The Gambia. The campaign sells original

Valentine’s Day cards and all proceeds are donated to Nova Scotia-Gambia Association. “I learned that people there [in The Gambia, West Africa], have so little, but are so happy. And here we have so much, but always want more.” says Jakob, a Halifax native.

Twoonies For Toubabs started last year, when Jakob expressed his interest to visit the small West African country. His mother, Cathy Conrad, Acting Executive Director for NSGA at the time, knew that Jakob would come away from the experience with an enriched perspective on life. Twoonies from Toubabs was Jakob’s way of giving back.

‘Toubab” is a Gambian term for foreigners, and Jakob coined the name by himself. He started his campaign by selling Valentine’s Day cards and raised almost $3000.00 for the NSGA in 2011.


Jakob’s passion to raise money for health and education in The Gambia continues this year. Twoonies from Toubabs features six new Valentine’s Day cards at a cost of $2 each or 6 for $10. His goal is to raise $2000.00. Minuteman Press Halifax has generously donated the printing cost for all Valentine’s cards for the second year in row.


“The NSGA sincerely appreciates Jakob’s generosity. This money has gone such a long way to enhancing the education of so many youth across the country. I am so impressed that someone so young has such a big heart.” says Muhammed Ngallan, Executive Director of NSGA.


To hear Jakob talking about his first experience in The Gambia last year, along with photos from his trip, go to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OYdU1qUT2T0.Visit the 2012 Twoonies for





Monday, January 9, 2012

Register Today For Marathon Skating at Hfx Oval

Marathon Skating International, the Halifax Regional Speed Skating Club, and the Halifax Regional Municipality are pleased to announce the return of the “Skate the Common” Marathon on February 18-19, 2012 at the Emera Oval on the Halifax Common. More 5K and 10K options, a 25K, and new this year, a triathlon and sledge racing!

The speed skating competition will be sanctioned by Speed Skate Nova Scotia, and the triathlon by Triathlon Nova Scotia. The 25K event will be included in the Marathon Skating International Points Series, with points accumulated by skaters counting towards their season standing for purposes of the Pierre Gagné Trophy.

Chip timing provided by MSI Sports Timing for the events on the oval.
Featured Events:
5K Big Ice Icebreaker Race 1 – skaters under 20
5K Big Ice Icebreaker Race 2 – skaters 20 and over
This event was so popular last year that we’ve had to divide it into two races. Registration will be capped at 60 skaters for each race. This introductory level event will appeal to skaters of all ages, with any type of skates. If you’ve been skating at the public skates at your local arena, you can do this distance – 12½ laps of the oval.

10K Hockey / Speed Skate Challenge Race 1 – skaters under 20
10K Hockey / Speed Skate Challenge Race 2 – skaters 20 and over
Hockey, ringette, figure and recreational skaters – are you known for your skating skills? Do you think you can go the distance? Take on the speed skaters in this 10 kilometre event – 25 laps of the oval! This event has also been divided into two races, with registration capped at 60 skaters for each race.

25K Big Ice Challenge
For the really serious skater, this one has 62½ laps of the oval, and is
a good test of your endurance and skating skills. Registration will be
capped at 70 skaters.

Tri-the-Oval Winter Triathlon
New this year! Individual or team triathlon – 5K Skate, 6K Bike, 4.2K Run on the Emera Oval and the Halifax Common. Details are available at this link. Registration will be capped at 80 participants.

3K Top Blade Sledge Race
New this year! For the sledge hockey players out there, come and
show your speed and endurance on the Big Ice. Registration will be
capped at 60 participants

Schedule
Friday, February 17, 2012
5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Practice time on the oval
Saturday, February 18, 2012
8:00 AM – 8:45 AM

Check-in and assignment of timing chips for 5K Big Ice Icebreaker – Race 1
Warm up time on the oval
9:00 AM – 10:00 AM 5K Big Ice Icebreaker – Race 1
9:30 AM – 10:15 AM Check-in and assignment of timing chips for 5K Big Ice Icebreaker – Race 2
10:00 AM Medal ceremony for 5K Big Ice Icebreaker – Race 1
10:30 AM – 11:30 AM 5K Big Ice Icebreaker – Race 2
11:30 AM
Medal ceremony for 5K Big Ice Icebreaker – Race 2
1:00 PM – 1:45 PM
Check-in and assignment of timing chips for 25K Big Ice Challenge
Warm up time on the oval
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
25K Big Ice Challenge
4:00 PM
Medal ceremony for 25K Big Ice Challenge
Sunday, February 19, 2011
7:30 AM – 8:30 AM
Race kit pick up and assignment of timing chips for Tri-the-Oval Winter Triathlon
8:00 AM – 8:30 AM
Warm up time on the oval
8:30 AM
Race briefing
9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
Tri-the-Oval Winter Triathlon
10:00 AM – 10:45 AM
Check-in and assignment of timing chips for 10K Hockey / Speed Skate Challenge Race 1 – skaters under 20
10:30 AM
Awarding of prizes for Tri-the-Oval Winter Triathlon
11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
10K Hockey / Speed Skate Challenge Race 1 – skaters under 20
12:00 PM – 12:45 PM
Check-in and assignment of timing chips for 10K Hockey / Speed Skate Challenge Race 2 – skaters 20 and over
12:30 PM
Medal ceremony for 10K Hockey / Speed Skate Challenge Race 1 – skaters under 20
1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
10K Hockey / Speed Skate Challenge Race 2 – skaters 20 and over
2:00 PM – 2:45 PM
Check-in and assignment of timing chips for 3K Top Blade Sledge Race
2:30 PM
Medal ceremony for 10K Hockey / Speed Skate Challenge Race 2 – skaters 20 and over
3:00 PM – 4:00 PM
3K Top Blade Sledge Race
4:00 PM
Medal ceremony for 3K Top Blade Sledge Race

Registration & Contact Info:
For information on the skating events, please contact Sheila McGinn.
For information on the triathlon, please contact Marie-Claude Grégoire.
For information on the sledge races, contact Francis Durand

Registration is available though the following links: http://www.atlanticchip.ca/events/details.php?show=869

5K, 10K, and 25K skating races and 3K sledge race
Tri-the-Oval Winter Triathlon
Fees:
5K Big Ice Icebreaker
$20
10K Hockey / Speed Skate Challenge
$20
25K Big Ice Challenge
$30
Tri-the-Oval Winter Triathlon
$25 individual / $50 team before Dec 31st
$35 individual / $70 team after December 31st
$40 individual / $80 team on race day
3K Top Blade Sledge Race
$15
Racing Rules - Marathon races: Slowest skaters will skate on the inside track of the oval, with all passing done on the outside. Helmets are required for skaters 12 and under, and are recommended for all skaters.

Triathlon:
SKATE: Helmets are mandatory. Helmets must be approved for multi-impacts and without ventilation holes (to protect from blades). Ski/snowboard helmet or hockey helmet are perfect. Bike helmets won't be accepted (we have a few extra helmets for those who don't have one). All types of skates accepted (figure skating, hockey, and speed skating). Slower skaters will skate on the inside of the Oval, faster skaters on the outside (marathon speed skating rule).
BIKE: Bike helmet mandatory (everyone will have to change helmets, as each protects in a different way). Mountain bikes only (no cyclocross bikes). Drafting allowed, passing on the left only, studded tires allowed. Bike tires have to be larger than 40 mm or 1.5 inch.
RUN: Studded/yaktrax-like, trail & regular running shoes allowed (but not track shoes), no snowshoes, no barefoot running, but 5-fingers accepted.

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Area Close to Maskwa Up for Development

Cresco Holdings Limited is seeking approval of a development agreement pertaining to Sub Area 9 of the Bedford West Master Plan Area; a component of the Bedford West Secondary Planning Strategy (SPS). In 2006, Regional Council selected the Bedford West area to be one of the main urban growth areas in the Municipality for the next 25 years. The lands, illustrated on Map 1, encompass 38.4 acres (15.54 hectares) to the west of Highway 102, northeast of Kearney Lake Road and south and southeast of the new Highway 102 interchange at Larry Uteck Boulevard.

The development proposal integrates parks and open space with multi-unit dwellings as well as general commercial land uses. The proposed development agreement (Attachment A) reflects this mix of uses and includes terms pertaining to environmental protection, land development, parks and open space, the provision of municipal services and phasing. Further, the agreement is subject to capital cost contribution charges by the developer to the Municipality for transportation improvements and in the future, to Halifax Water for sewer and water improvements.

The joint public hearing will be held by North West Community Council and Chebucto Community Council on Monday, Jan 9, 2012 at 7pm at Keshen Goodman Library, 330 Lacewood Drive, Halifax. All oral and written submissions will be considered at that time.

A copy of the staff report may be obtained by calling Planning Services at 869-4260. You can also view the report on line athttp://www.halifax.ca/Commcoun/ccc/documents/111205ccc1011.pdf

Proposal

A mixture of multiple unit dwellings, general commercial, parkland and other open space uses are proposed. Plans illustrating key elements of the project such as municipal services, park dedications, trails and development phasing are found in Schedules B to Q of the development agreement (Attachment A).

The development is comprised of two key components: a general commercial area and two medium to high density residential areas:

General Commercial

Approximately 17.8 acres (7.2 ha) of the development is intended for general commercial purposes and will house a mix of highway and general commercial land uses. This is intended to house land uses that are more car oriented than in other commercial areas of Bedford West. Commercial land uses are permitted to a height of 50 ft (15.24m) and a maximum lot coverage of fifty percent.

Residential

The remaining lands which can be developed , which cover approximately 12.48 acres (5.05 ha), are intended to accommodate medium to high density residential development. The concept submitted is proposing approximately 324 dwelling units in three buildings. One building is proposed at six storeys, while the other two are proposed at twelve storeys.

Parkland and Open Space

Approximately 2.67 acres (1.08 ha) of the site is reserved specifically for parkland and another 5.7 acres (2.3 ha) is set aside as a conservation area. In addition to the land dedication, the developer is proposing the construction of a trail of approximately 728 feet (222 metres) in length to form a future connection to Sub Area 10 from the General Commercial area of Sub area.