Lake Ainslie
Lake Ainslie Development Association
Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia
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Winter Newsletter 2023/ 2024

12/16/2023

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Lake Ainslie Newsletter ~ Winter Events 2023/ 2024

Upcoming Winter Events:
Annual Community Christmas Concert
Sunday, December 17th at 7pm. Donations to the food bank are accepted in lieu of admission. All ages are welcome. There will be Christmas carols, recitations, tea and cookies, and maybe even a surprise visitor from the North Pole!

Painting Party
December 17th at 1pm at the Scotsville School of Crafts. Fee is $25.00 and this includes material. Led by Patti Davis. See more details in the Oran or on the School of Crafts Facebook page.

Christmas Eve Church Services in the local area
East Lake Ainslie Presbyterian Church - 3pm on Dec. 24th
St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, SW Margaree - 4pm on Dec. 24th

Pub Trivia Night
Friday, December 29th at 8pm. Ages 19+ $5.00 cover charge. No team necessary; join a table & see how your group does in this fun & relaxed team challenge. Lake Ainslie Volunteer Fire Hall.

New Years Eve Kitchen Party/ Pub at the Fire Hall
There will be a New Years Eve Kitchen Party / gathering at the fire hall on December 31st. The event will be hosted by the Fire Department and community members are asked to bring a snack or dish to share in the potluck if you are able. There will be food, music, dancing, and bar service. (Age 19+). Festivities start at 8pm. Bring some friends and ring in the New Year at the Fire Hall!

Skating Party
The Lake Ainslie Development Association is sponsoring a free community skate at the Inverness Arena. Saturday, January 20th, 2024 at 7pm. All ages are welcome. Please note: Helmets are mandatory for all skaters. This sponsorship is happening with the support of the Winter Active Grant from the Municipality. (*Note this date is different from the previous copy of the newsletter that went out on paper!) 

Snowmobile Rally
The Inverness Capers Snowmobile Rally will be held on February 24th at the Lake Ainslie Volunteer Fire Hall. Weather permitting. See local media for more details. Trail permits are required- get your SANS snowmobile trail permits and maps from members of the Inverness Capers Snowmobile Club and support the maintenance of winter grooming on the trails!

Thank you to the Lake Ainslie Volunteer Fire Department volunteers for hosting community events throughout the year.

Ongoing/ Recurring Events:
Winter Warmer /Coffee Club
Community coffee club is back, the first Friday in every month, from 9:30am to 11:30am. Come out to the fire hall to have a cup of tea or coffee and meet up with neighbours for a casual get together. If you are new to the area, drop by and meet some new people. This is a free event, everyone welcome. Dates: January 12th; February 2nd; March 1st; April 5th.

Quilting & crafting at the Scotsville School of Crafts
Wednesday afternoons will be open house for quilters to gather as well as knitters, crocheters and other fibre artists. Warm up this winter with fellow crafters at the School of Crafts! Everyone welcome. Also on Wednesday, coming soon there will be a yarn shop set up at the School. Watch the local newspaper to see the start of this event called Woolly Wednesday. Also - watch for some exciting new workshop offerings in the New Year!

Trivia Nights
Pub trivia nights will be held at the Fire Hall once a month- approximately the third Friday of every month. $5.00 admission. Hosted by quizmaster Laura, you are sure to have a few laughs as you test your knowledge! Tentative/ approximate dates: Jan. 19th; Feb. 16th; March 22; April 19th. Watch local media for confirmed dates.

Fitness Classes
Aerotone fitness class is ongoing until May. Mondays & Wednesdays, 9am to 10:30am, incorporating aerobics, toning, flexibility & balance training. Current cost is $23 for 8 sessions. New people are welcome to join. Led by Maggie Herbert at the Fire Hall. Note: If school is cancelled due to bad weather, the fitness class is also cancelled.

Fire Department Meetings & Rafflebox Lottery
Meetings of the Fire Department are the first Wednesday of every month at 8pm; new members are welcome to join. The Lake Ainslie Fire Department is part of a weekly Nova Scotia online lottery- called Rafflebox. Purchase your ticket for the weekly draw on Thursdays and choose Lake Ainslie from the dropdown menu to support your local department. To enter: https://www.rafflebox.ca/raffle/nsfd

LADA Meetings
The Lake Ainslie Development Association aims to contribute positively to the quality of life of all citizens of Lake Ainslie. What would you like to see happening in our area? More events for kids? For seniors? Seasonal actives? Live music events? Recreation? If you have any ideas you would like to bring forward, we would love to have you join! Next LADA meeting: Monday, Jan. 15th (Tentative - see local media to confirm.)
Merry Christmas ~ Nollaig Chridheil ~ Happy Solstice from the Lake Ainslie Development Association
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Newsletter ~ June 1, 2022 ~

6/1/2022

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Lake Ainslie Newsletter                 ~ Spring 2022 ~
 
Fire Department celebrates 50 years of serving the community!
The Lake Ainslie Volunteer Fire Department is celebrating 50 years of actively serving the community of Lake Ainslie- Upper Margaree in 2022.  The Annual Firemens’ Ceilidh Days will be held in person once again from the 6th- 9th of July 2022.  Mark your calendar for this important fundraising event and community celebration of 50 years of service!  Thank you to the past and present Firemen & women and Auxilliary members who have contributed so much to the community over the past 50 years!!  Mark your calendar for the Anniversary events (more details to follow in local media):
Firemens' Ceilidh Days 2022:
Wednesday, July 6th – Open House to celebrate 50th Anniversary – everyone welcome.
Thursday, July 7th –   Pub Night - Trivia
Friday, July 8th –        Movie night for kids
Saturday, July 9th –  Fun & games at the Fire Hall – BBQ, games of chance, games for Kids & Annual Beer Garden with live music (afternoon).
 
LADA meetings are open to all & seeking volunteers
The Lake Ainslie Development Association invites all residents of Lake Ainslie and surrounding areas to attend monthly meetings and get involved in planning for local initiatives.  Whether it’s putting on a Friday evening ceilidh, building and maintaining local trails, advocating for safer roads, or building a wharf in Scotsville, LADA is working to add to the quality of life in the community.  We would love for LADA meetings to be more of a community forum and a way to connect, share ideas and plans, or get together to catch up with neighbours.  This is an open invitation to come out and check out a meeting.  Meetings are usually only one hour in length per month, and the next meeting is Monday, June 13 at 7:30pm at the Fire Hall.
 
Multi- Family Yard Sale at the Fire Hall
There will be a multi-family yard sale at the Fire Hall on Saturday, June 4th from 9am to noon.  The indoor- outdoor sale will include gently used items, clothing, household goods, and crafts.  The Fire Department will also be distributing their rain barrels from their rain barrel sale on the same day.
 
“The beautiful spring came, and when nature resumes her loveliness, the human soul is apt to revive also.” – Harriet Ann Jacobs

Quilting for a good cause…
The Lake Ainslie Weavers and Craft Guild is inviting quilters or people who wish to learn to quilt to take part in a quilting bee in aid of Ukraine.  The Weavers Guild has set up a quilt at the Scotsville School of Crafts and plan to host a quilting bee each Saturday morning beginning Saturday, April 23rd, from 9am to 11am until the quilt is completed.  Once finished, the quilt will be donated to the group: Ukrainian Relief, Nova Scotia.  Anyone wishing to take part in the quilting bee is welcome to stop by and add some stitches. There is no registration required, just drop by any Saturday morning and add your stitches and your time to this worthwhile cause.  For more information on this project, please phone Verna at 258- 2278 or check the group’s Facebook page: @ScotsvilleSchoolOfCrafts
 
Some good news & dates to keep in mind:
  • June 1st is International Trails Day- why not check out one of the local trails?  You can walk, hike or bike part of the 50 kilometers of Trans Canada Trail that runs through the community.  
 
  • The Sunset Funeral Co-op will hold its Annual General Meeting at the Lake Ainslie Volunteer Fire Hall on Sunday, June 5th at 2pm, everyone is welcome to attend.  Tea & refreshments will be served.
 
  • Welcome to all newcomers to the community, we hope to see you at local events!  
 
  • Congratulations to new local businesses recently opened and/or opening in the area:
  • hDM Diesel Services Limited – Diesel mechanic services & retail - East Lake Ainslie
  • Bear Paw Cottages – 1792 West Lake Ainslie Rd. (formerly Nowen Family Cottages)
  • Kirkwood Estates – Retirement living community, East Lake Ainslie
  • Jed the Fishing Guide - Jed Woodill, West Lake Ainslie
  • Yellow Umbrella Crafts – 1617 West Lake Ainslie Road
Hope we didn’t miss anyone – best of luck to all new business endeavours!
 
If you wish to volunteer to help at any of the events listed above, please get in touch!
 
Contact Info:
Email: [email protected]       Website: www.lakeainslie.ca
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Newsletter ~ Winter 2020

12/21/2020

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Lake Ainslie Newsletter        ~ Winter 2020 ~
 
Community Skate December 30th at 3pm
LADA is sponsoring a community skate at the Inverness Arena on Wednesday, December 30th at 3pm.  Community members of all ages are invited to attend.  Nova Scotia Public Health Guidelines will be followed at this event – Masks and helmets are also required to be worn by all skaters (helmets must be worn by all - youth and adults).  Sorry we are not able to provide refreshments at this event; bring your own water bottle or warm drink in your thermos. This event is supported by the Municipal “Winter Active” Activity Fund. 
 
Community “Tea & Coffee Club” at the Fire Hall this Winter
A community meet up/ coffee club will be held once per month during the winter for neighbours to pop in and visit together safely.  The coffee club will be held on the second Friday of every month *except January (third Friday).  Coffee and tea will be provided- come and have a chat and catch up with neighbours and friends.  Coffee club will be held from 9am to 10:30am; drop in any time.  All ages/ everyone welcome.  Dates: January 15th, February 12th, March 12th & April 9th
 
All Public Health COVID regulations will be followed at the coffee club- please wear your mask and do not attend if you are experiencing any cold or flu like symptoms.   Thank you to the Fire Department and the Municipality of the County of Inverness “Winter Active” for support for the coffee club.  If there is another event scheduled to be held at the Fire Hall on the date, coffee club will be cancelled.  
 
Weekly Trail Walking Club
Do you want to be active this winter in the outdoors?  There will be a weekly meet up on the trail for a socially distanced & safe trail walk on the Lower Road in Scotsville, along the Margaree River.  Park on Lakeview Drive and walk with the group or walk on your own knowing others are nearby; there’s safety in (socially-distanced) numbers.  All ages welcome- the trail is flat and is suitable for strollers and sleds.   The walking club will meet at 1pm on Thursday afternoons, weather permitting.  The walking club will begin by meeting at 1pm on Thursday, December 31st

“Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful.”- Norman Vincent Peale
 
 
Municipal Ski & Snowshoe Rental Program
Skis, snowshoes and Nordic walking poles can be booked and rented through the Municipality- be sure to call ahead for a weekend booking and pick up skis in Inverness (above the Post Office) or Port Hood at the Municipal office.  Rental is $1.00 per day for some items; $5.00 for a week, and some are free for seniors.  Phone the Recreation Department at: 902-787-3508 for more information.

Santa spotted in the area?!
Sadly, the community Christmas concert had to be cancelled due to COVID, but Santa couldn’t resist making his annual visit to this area.  Santa made an appearance in the community on December 20th to check in with local girls and boys to see how they are doing this year.  Thanks to Patterson’s General Store & the LAVFD for providing treats, and to the Fire Department volunteers for helping Santa get around the community safely!
 
Cross Country Ski Workshop – January 2021
A workshop for cross country ski beginners and enthusiasts who wish to improve their technique will be held in early 2021.  The workshop will be led by Daniel Murray of North Highland Nordic & Provincial XC Ski team coach.  Date & Time of the workshop is still TBA; watch for more details to come.  Sponsored by the Municipality of Inverness “Winter Active” Fund.
 
COVID- Related Cancellations
Unfortunately, there have been many community events cancelled or unable to be held this year due to COVID.  The Christmas concert, the Christmas Eve church services at local churches, and the carol singing will not be held this year.  Despite these cancelled events, we know that neighbours will be checking in on neighbours to make sure everyone is doing okay.  We hope you have a quiet but cozy Christmas holiday, and hope to see a return to local community events in 2021.  The Municipality has set up a toll-free number to access resources & information during the pandemic: 1-877-258-5550
 
Events in 2021…
  • LADA has recently purchased a projector to use for events at the Fire Hall, and the goal is to host a storytelling night with the potential to show some old films or footage of past community events. 
  • Depending on the situation in 2021, we will hope to host the annual coasting party, weather and COVID- permitting. 
 
Do you have an idea for a safe, outdoor, socially- distanced event? 
If you would like to help lead a hike, snowshoe or cross-country ski meet-up, or wish to volunteer to help at any of the events listed above, please get in touch!
 
Contact Info:
Email: lakeainslienewsletter@ gmail.com                
Website: www.lakeainslie.ca
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LakeAinslieDevelopmentAssociation/
 
 
Merry Christmas * Happy Hanukkah * Happy Winter Solstice
Stay safe & Best Wishes for health & happiness in the New Year!
 
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Summer Newsletter 2020

7/30/2020

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Lake Ainslie Newsletter             Summer 2020, Pandemic Edition

Outdoor Bake Sale & BBQ – August 8th
The MacDonald House Museum staff will be hosting a bake sale and BBQ on Saturday, August 8th from 12 – 3pm.  There will be hamburgers and hot dogs on the BBQ and pop and water for purchase.  Stop by the bake sale to pick up a sweet treat & some homemade goodies for the weekend!  This event will be held outdoors (weather permitting) with social distancing measures in place.  Don’t forget your mask!

The MacDonald House Museum did not open to the public for tours this summer, but they were able to hire staff, and they are planning this one day event to help with their ongoing fundraising and maintenance efforts.  The site has had significant work done to the roof of the house, and more repairs are needed in the future.  Come and help ‘raise the roof’ at the MacDonald House Museum.  If you wish to contribute to the bake sale, please get in touch with the Administrator, Kim, by calling the Museum site (902) 258-3317, or via email: [email protected]
 
Donations to local groups are welcome at this time
Despite being closed due to the COVID – 19 shut down, local organizations have ongoing maintenance of their buildings and sites to consider.  Many groups have had to cancel their fundraising efforts and festivals for the season.  Local groups in the Lake Ainslie area are seeking donations from anyone wishing to help at this time with a financial contribution.  Some of the groups below have requested donations and some have not, but the list includes all non-profits at the Lake with charitable status.  A Canadian Charitable Tax Receipt will be issued for all donations received.  A donation to a local group is a nice way to recognize and celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or memorial gift.  Please see the contact information below for groups in the area:

MacDonald House Museum
c/o Lake Ainslie Historical Society
4120 Hwy 395
East Lake Ainslie, NS
B0E 3M0
Donations can also be made via E-transfer, to: [email protected]
 
Scotsville School of Crafts
c/o the Lake Ainslie Weavers and Craft Guild
2234 Strathlorne-Scotsville Road
Scotsville, Nova Scotia
B0E 3E0
 
Lake Ainslie Volunteer Fire Department
RR# 1 Whycocomagh, NS
B0E 3M0
 
Alexander Grant United Church
3571 Highway 395
Lake Ainslie, B0E 3M0
 
Lake Ainslie Presbyterian Church
Donate online: https://lapreschurch.com/
Or by mail: c/o Treasurer Clifford Collins,
R.R.#1, Whycocomagh, NS B0E 3M0                                                         

East Lake Ainslie Cemetery Fund
Donate online: https://lapreschurch.com/
or c/o Treasurer, Barrie Fraser
R.R.#1, Whycocomagh, NS B0E 3M0

 
Reopening of church services at Lake Ainslie:
East Lake Ainslie Presbyterian Church – August 23rd (time to be announced).
Alexander Grant United Church – TBD


Did you know you can order locally grown produce through the Pan Cape Breton Food Hub?
Check it out online: https://www.capebretonfoodhub.com/


Masks are mandatory to be worn in all indoor spaces in Nova Scotia as of July 31st, 2020.

Thank you to all the front line workers in our community who have contributed during this unprecedented time.

COVID-19 Anonymous Municipal Toll-Free Helpline (Inverness County) 1-877-258-5550

Congratulations to MacKinnon’s Campground on their 50th Anniversary!! 50 years of fun times, friendship & hospitality at the Lake! Congratulations to the Gillis family on this milestone!

Congratulations to Patterson’s General Store on their 45th Anniversary, celebrated on July 29th, 2020!!  Thanks to the Patterson family for being a great support to the community throughout the year- during blizzards, pandemics, celebrations & everyday!

“A good neighbour is a welcome blessing.”
Stay safe everyone!

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Winter Newsletter      2020

2/7/2020

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Lake Ainslie Newsletter                     Winter/ February 2020

Spaghetti Supper - Lake Ainslie Volunteer Fire Department Fundraiser
Saturday, February 15th, 2020
The annual spaghetti supper will be held on Saturday, February 15th from 4:30- 6pm at the Fire Hall.  Always a delicious meal to warm up a cold winter day. $15.00 adults and $5.00 for kids
The Fire Hall fundraising committee will also be selling tickets on a Cellophane Dinner, to be drawn February 20th.
 
All Ages Coasting/ Sledding Party – Heritage Day Weekend  
Sunday, February 16th, 2020
The always- popular coasting party will be held on Sunday, February 16th from 1- 3pm on the big hill behind the Fire Hall.  The hall will be open and hot chocolate and cookies will be served.  All ages are welcome to take part! Co-sponsored/ co-organized by the Lake Ainslie Volunteer Fire Department & the Lake Ainslie Development Association, with support from the Municipality’s “Winter Active” Fund.
 
Capers Snowmobile Club Rally – leaving from the Fire Hall in Scotsville
Saturday, February 22nd, 2020
Registration at the Fire Hall; watch the Inverness Oran for more details.
 
Senior Housing Committee Update
Unfortunately, the Lake Ainslie Senior Housing Committee has decided to suspend their work at this time.  Despite having some successful movement forward on many aspects of the project, the committee feels the need to take a break.  Despite a piece of land available and encouragement from many community members believing it is a worthwhile project, the committee does not feel it has the energy to push through some of the work needed at this moment.  Perhaps in the future the idea will be picked up again and the project can move forward.  What would be needed in the future to make the project happen?  The wish list includes: Local investment or funding partners; volunteers willing to join the committee when members wish to step away; someone with business or project management background to support the work of the committee. 
 
Health & Fitness at the Fire Hall on Monday & Wednesday mornings
Aero-Tone low impact aerobics and full body toning
Resistance bands are used- contact instructor for schedule & info.
Fee $23.00, plus materials for 8 classes, 9:00-10:30 AM.
All ages, men and women welcome. Dates are subject to change. I'd like to remind you of our snow policy; when the schools are closed, so are we. Please remember this is a scent free class. Thank you for your consideration!    Instructor: Maggie Herbert (258-3320)
 
Happy Heritage Day! Monday, February 17th, 2020:
Celebrated the third Monday in February, Nova Scotia Heritage Day is an annual reminder of our storied past and an opportunity to honour the remarkable people, places and events that have contributed to this province’s unique heritage.

This year’s Heritage Day Honouree: the community of Africville
Past Heritage Day Honourees:
2019 - Maud Lewis
2018 - Mona Louise Parsons
2017- Mi’kmaq Heritage
2016 - Joseph Howe
2015 - Viola Desmond
 
Spring Events at the Scotsville School of Crafts
Registration February 25th, 2020
Register at the Scotsville School of Crafts on February 25, 2020, 12:00- 2:00 pm; or by getting in touch with local community programmer:  Verna MacMillan, Phone: (902) 258-2278 E-mail vernamacm@ gmail.com
 
TUESDAYS:
SCRABBLE, starting March 2020, Everyone welcome! No fee, 7:00 pm. Organizer: Verna MacMillan
 
INTERNET & EMAIL FOR BEGINNERS, starting March 2020. Learn the basics- hints for browsing, how to find what you want, get your own email address, sending and receiving email, downloading, copying or printing information from the net, question and answer, and more. Fee $20, 4 weeks.  Instructor: Peggy Gillis, 2:00 – 3:30 PM 

WEDNESDAYS:
TILE RUMMY, STARTING MARCH 2020, a fun game, easy to learn (8 to adult), no fee, everyone welcome! 7:00 PM. Organizer: Verna MacMillan 

FRIDAYS:
EUCHRE, starting March 2020, a fun, fast card game, no fee, you can learn the game or play, everyone welcome! 7:00 pm. Organizer: Verna MacMillan 

SATURDAYS:
WEAVING 6- week weaving class. Weaving 9-1 on Saturdays, starting March 14th to April 18th (total of 6 Saturdays); Course fee: $75.00 + materialsWeaving course for beginners and anyone wishing to review, strengthen and refresh their
basic weaving theory and skills. This is the first of a two part course with the second part in
the fall. In this first part you will be making two sample projects on the loom.  This will be an
intensive course and there is a lot of material to cover, so bring your thinking cap, lunch if
you like and prepare to make something that will blow your mind! Your first sample loom will
be prepared for you so you will need to pre-register for this course no later than 1 week
before (the earlier the better).  Instructor: Eileen MacNeil
 
"Snow was falling, so much like stars filling the dark trees that one could easily imagine its reason for being was nothing more than prettiness.” ― Mary Oliver
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July Newsletter Update

6/26/2019

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July 2019 Newsletter 2.0 - a few more details about events happening in July!

Firemen’s Ceilidh Days! July 2nd to July 6th, 2019
 
Saturday, June 29th:
Pancake Breakfast at MacKinnon’s Campground; 9am to 11am
Pancakes, ham, coffee; Adults $8.00, Children $4.00
Sponsored by the Lake Ainslie Weavers & Craft Guild.

Happy Canada Day!

Tuesday, July 2nd:
Family Magic Show with Mister J – 7:00pm

Wednesday, July 3rd:
Merchandise Bingo at 7:30pm - win some great prizes!

Thursday, July 4th:
  • Children’s Gaelic Playgroup 10am to noon; For parents & toddlers/
          babies; Age 5 and under.
  • “I Made It Market” – Craft & Baking Market at the Scotsville School of
        Crafts; Admission $2.00
  •  Adult Pub Night featuring Live Music by “Final Cut” at the Fire Hall ;
        8pm to Midnight, Admission $10.00; Fun & entertaining music!

Friday, July 5th:     
Roast Beef Supper at the Fire Hall; 4:30 – 6pm Admission $15.00 includes tea/ dessert/

Saturday, July 6th:
  • Parade Day!!  Parade begins at Noon in downtown Scotsville with lots of great events to follow at the Fire Hall: BBQ, Games of chance, Bake sale, Children’s games, Bouncy Castles, Cake Walk & Merchandise Bingo.
  • Beer Garden is from 4:00- 8:00pm; Admission $10.00
  • Live Music featuring “Beech Hill”.  Ages 19+
 
2019 is the 40th Anniversary of the MacDonald House Museum!
Watch local media for special anniversary events & stop by for a visit.
Congratulations to the Lake Ainslie Historical Society!
 
Thank you for supporting your local volunteer Fire Department!

New volunteers are always welcome to join local community organizations!
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Spring/ Summer 2019 Newsletter

6/3/2019

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LADA Spring Newsletter June & July 2019

June:
Monday, June 3rd – Regular Monthly Meeting of LADA, 7:30pm, Scotsville Fire Hall Everyone welcome.

Wednesday, June 5th – Regular Monthly Meeting, Fire Department, 8pm, Fire Hall

Friday, June 7th – Scotsville Session, live music featuring Lisa Cameron & Vern MacDougall. All ages welcome! Last Scotsville Session of the season!

Saturday, June 8th – Annual Cod Fish Supper, East Lake Ainslie Presbyterian Church, Held at the Lake Ainslie Volunteer Fire Hall from 4:30- 6pm.

Monday, June 10th – Fundraising Committee of the Lake Ainslie Vol. Fire Department. Meeting at the Fire Hall. Meeting re: Ceilidh Days planning, etc…

2019 is the 40th Anniversary of the MacDonald House Museum!
Watch local media for special anniversary events & stop by for a visit. Congratulations to the Lake Ainslie Historical Society!


July: Firemen’s Ceilidh Days! July 3rd to July 6th, 2019

Wednesday, July 3rd -Merchandise Bingo; win some great prizes!
Thursday, July 4th - Pub Night featuring Live Music by “Final Cut”.
Friday, July 5th - Roast Beef Supper at the Fire Hall
Saturday, July 6th - Parade Day & Beer Garden featuring live music by “Beech Hill”. Also features the BBQ, games of chance, bake sale, children’s games & bingo. 
All proceeds go toward the Lake Ainslie Volunteer Fire Department. 

“The deep roots never doubt spring will come.” ― Marty Rubin

New volunteers are always welcome to join local community organizations! 
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Fall & Winter Newsletter 2018

11/18/2018

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Lake Ainslie Newsletter Fall/ Winter 2018

Friday Evening Ceilidhs will continue in the winter
This summer the Fire Department launched a series of ceilidhs for six weeks throughout July and August as a fundraising event. The ceilidhs featured live music, were open to all ages, and had a licensed bar. The ceilidhs were well attended and the music was fantastic! Thanks to all of the local businesses who helped to sponsor the ceilidhs. The Fire Department will continue to host a ceilidh once a month during the winter and this event will be open to all ages. Check the schedule on the next page for details, and watch the Inverness Oran for event listings!

Senior Housing Committee seeks volunteers
The senior housing committee has recently received a generous offer of land in the Lake Ainslie area and is seeking volunteers to make this idea a reality.  If you wish to help this project move forward, please attend the next meeting on Monday, November 19th at 7pm at the Fire Hall. LADA wishes to thank everyone who completed the Housing Needs survey, results show that there seems to be agreement that senior housing is needed and would be a positive benefit to the community.

Christmas events are in full swing!
Christmas events are in full swing in the area, beginning with the tree lighting ceremony at the Fire Hall on Friday, November 23rd, and a Craft Tea & Sale at the Scotsville School of Crafts on December 9th.  See the list on the next page for a full schedule of events and details to keep you busy throughout the winter months!!

Seeking ideas & input for health and wellness events
There are sometimes small grants available for health and wellness events in the area, including winter activities through the WinterFest Grant sponsored by the Municipality.  If you have an idea for a health and wellness event you would like to see happen in the area, please get in touch. You can contact LADA through the Facebook page or email: lakeainslienewsletter @ gmail.com or bring your idea to a monthly meeting.

New Fire Truck on its way!
The Lake Ainslie Volunteer Fire Department has been busy fundraising for a new fire truck and it’s almost ready to be delivered!  There will be an open house for the community to check out the truck on December 7th at 6pm. Thanks to all the volunteers who work tirelessly on Fire Department and Fundraising Committee events!

Fitness at the Fire Hall
Aerotone fitness classes are ongoing from September until May, Monday and Wednesdays 9am -10:30am, incorporating aerobics, toning, flexibility and balance training. Current cost is $23 for 8 sessions. New people are welcome to join by registering with Maggie Herbert at 258-3320.


Paper copies of this newsletter are available at Patterson's General Store in Scotsville! (Thanks, Pattersons!)
You can also find this newsletter on our website: www.lakeainslie.ca and we link to the newsletter on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/LakeAinslieDevelopmentAssociation/
Please share with anyone who might be interested!


Lake Ainslie Winter Events
November 19th - Regular Monthly meeting of LADA at 7pm at the Fire Hall (LADA meetings generally occur on the 3rd Monday of the month)
December 5th - Regular monthly meeting of the Fire Department – first Wednesday of every month at 8pm;
November 23rd     Christmas Tree Lighting at the Fire Hall at 7pm.  All ages are welcome and encouraged to attend!  Donations to the Food Bank are welcome and encouraged at this event, and/or something to share for tea. Tea & hot chocolate will be served.
December 7th       New Fire Truck Arrives at the Fire Hall! Open House at 6pm
December 9th       Christmas Tea & Sale at the Scotsville School of Crafts 1- 4pm; Phone to book a table. Admission $5.00, children free. Admission includes tea. Sponsored by the Lake Ainslie Weavers and Craft Guild.
December 23rd     Annual Community Christmas Concert at the Fire Hall, HO, HO, HO!!  Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend.  Tea will be served.

December 31st      New Years Eve Dance 9pm -1am with live music by Beech Hill

February 1st          Friday night Ceilidh with live music at the Fire Hall
February 9th         Spaghetti Supper 4:30-6pm at the Fire Hall

February 23rd      Inverness Capers Snowmobile Rally at the Fire Hall
February or March WinterFest & Coasting Party - date TBA; watch the Oran for details

March 1st             Friday night Ceilidh with live music at the Fire Hall

Summer 2019      Ceilidh Days 2019 will be held July 2nd - 6th…!!

“My old grandmother always used to say, summer friends will melt away like summer snows, but winter friends are friends forever.” - George RR Martin  
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Spring Newsletter 2018

5/5/2018

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LAKE AINSLIE COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER    Spring 2018

SPRING EVENTS AT THE LAKE:
MÌOS NAN GÀIDHEAL / GAELIC NS MONTH - MILLING FROLIC - MAY 17
As part of the Gaelic Nova Scotia Month, there will be a Milling Frolic held at the Fire Hall in Scotsville, from 7- 9pm on May 17th. Tea will be served and everyone is welcome, whether you plan to join in the singing or sit back and listen.
 
LEARN TO SPIN - SATURDAY MAY 26TH & JUNE 2ND, 2018
12:00pm to 3pm.  Scotsville School of Crafts
At this workshop you will learn about sheep and other fibre animals and their fleece.  You will learn about preparing fleece including washing and carding; learn to use the drop spindle and on the second day, use the spinning wheel for spinning and plying.  Instructor: Judy Lincoln, Cost: $45.00 plus materials. To register, contact Sandra Gillis at: [email protected]

FISHING DERBY - JUNE 2ND, 2018
The 24th Annual Donald MacKinnon Memorial Fishing Derby hosted by MacKinnon’s Campground.  Derby will be held in conjunction with the 2018 Department of Fisheries Sportfishing Weekend. No fishing license required for participants.  Register at Camper's Store- MacKinnon’s Campground. Adults: $5 Under 18: Free. Prizes for the winners, limit on how many fish you can catch.   Lobster boil at 6pm - price for lobster TBD. For more details, check with the Campground or the online event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/1465563920216360/

BIRD WALK - JUNE 3RD, 2018
Saturday, June 3rd, Rain or Shine!  12:00pm. Birding with Barrie Fraser.   Meet at the Kirkwood Studio and Gallery, (4310 Route 395, East Lake Ainslie). We will have an opportunity to take in some fantastic artwork and antiques while we watch nesting Cliff & Barn Swallows and hopefully a Bobolink or two, before moving on to do some lakeshore and forest birding.  This trip may involve some light hiking, so wear comfortable shoes and be sure to bring your binoculars if you have them. Participants are invited for tea and light snacks after the trip at the home of Verna MacMillan and Albert Smith.  WELCOME! Contact phone number: 258-2364

NEW FRIDAY EVENING CEILIDHS THIS SUMMER!
The Fire Department Fundraising Committee will be hosting a weekly Friday evening ceilidh from 7-9pm beginning on July 20th. This will be a traditional ceilidh with live music, it will be a licensed event but is also open to all ages.  Tea will be served and the bar will be open. Live local talent will provide the music and this will be a great way for people to get together with neighbours and family to enjoy some live music and catch up.  Watch for information on how to sponsor a ceilidh to support the Fire Department fundraising efforts this summer.

WELCOME SUMMER!  SUMMER EVENTS AT THE LAKE:

LAKE AINSLIE VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT CEILIDH DAYS
The Annual Firemen’s Ceilidh Days are happening in early July once again.  The following events are happening throughout the week.
Get your float ready and hope to see you at Fire Hall!
Wednesday, July 4th:  Merchandise Bingo - great prizes to be won!
Thursday, July 5th:      Adult Pub Night with live music by Darrell Keigan
Friday, July 6th:           Roast Beef Dinner & Dessert
Saturday, July 7th:       Parade Day, BBQ, Bake Sale, Children's Games, Games of    
                                    Chance, lots of fun for everyone!
COMMITTEES AND ORGANIZATIONS NEED YOU
 Looking for a way to add to your community with commitment of only an hour or two per month?  Fire Department Membership or the Fundraising Committee; LADA has the Senior Housing Committee and the Trail Committee, and is looking for people to join a Signage committee to create signage for the Trans Canada Trail. If you are interested in helping to create signage for the Trans Canada Trail, about history and ecology of the area, please get in touch with Coralie Cameron, or attend the next LADA Meeting on May 8th.  

SENIOR HOUSING COMMITTEE
This small but mighty committee continues to work toward the idea of senior housing in the Lake Ainslie area.  This winter the committee has started to gather estimates for the project expenses to understand the viability and feasibility of the project.  The committee is always seeking new members, whether you plan to access the senior housing or not! Please watch for a community survey about senior housing needs, coming soon!
“There is a cleansing from winter darkness the moment we sink our fingers into spring’s fresh earth.” -Toni Sorenson
MEETINGS AND EVENTS:
May 7th -     Fire Hall Fundraising Committee, 8pm @ the Fire Hall
May 8th -     LADA Meeting and committees - Senior housing & Signage committee
May 17th -    Milling Frolic at the Fire Hall, 7 to 9pm, tea will be served, all welcome!
May 26th -     Learn to Spin Workshop at Noon at the School of Crafts
May, TBA -     LADA Annual General Meeting
June 2nd -     Fishing Derby
June 3rd -     Birding Event at the Kirkwood Art Gallery at Noon
June 6th -     Lake Ainslie Fire Department - regular monthly meeting, 8pm
July 4- 7th -  Lake Ainslie Firemen's Ceilidh Days!

Check us out on Facebook @LakeAinslieDevelopmentAssociation
Please share this newsletter with anyone who might be interested!   

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Newsletter - Fall & Winter 2017

11/25/2017

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PictureLeft to right: Vince Jessome, Hugh Cameron, Mike Gillis, Derek MacKinnon, David MacLean, Ryan MacDougall, Bruce MacDonald, Kenzie MacPhail, Donald Kennedy, Johnny MacKinnon, Michael Gillis, Wesley MacLean, Colin Ogden, Dale Gillis, Hugh Don MacLean, Ian MacDougall and Marvin Delaney. Photo by David Gillis.
Lake Ainslie Newsletter
Fall & Winter 2017             (Volume 17)            www.lakeainslie.ca

Winter is on its way…  (we think!)

Some upcoming community events you won’t want to miss:

Nov. 26th -  Christmas Tree Lighting at the Fire Hall at 7pm Fun for all ages, tea will be served!  Food Bank donations accepted.         
Dress warm & get ready to kick of the holiday season with some carols.
Dec. 17th -  Annual Community Christmas Concert at the Fire Hall, tea served.
Dec. 24th/ 25th -  Christmas Services, everyone welcome.  Service times TBA.
Alexander Grant Memorial United Church & East Lake Ainslie Presbyterian Church.
Dec. 31st -  New Years Eve Dance with live band - “Beech Hill”  9pm -1am (Ages 19+)
Get your tickets early!  $25.00 each.  Lake Ainslie Volunteer Fire Hall, Scotsville.

Don’t forget to watch social media and the Inverness Oran for other scheduled winter events, including a storytelling session, and the ever popular WinterFest coasting party!

Please let us know if you wish to contribute to the newsletter or to propose an event:  lakeainslienewsletter @ gmail.com or connect with us on our Facebook page:  Lake Ainslie Development Association 


LADA News & Updates
The LADA Senior Housing Committee continues to meet regularly to discuss the details and plans for building a senior housing complex in the community. The committee will soon be applying for SEED funding to move the project to the next steps.  Thank you to those who have volunteered their time to this worthwhile endeavour thus far.  If you have questions or are interested in getting involved in this project, be sure to get in touch!


“Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around.” ― Leo Buscaglia


Fire Department Photo Shoot
Lake Ainslie Volunteer Fire Department recently had group photos taken, and don’t they look snazzy with the autumn leaves in the background?  This year marks the 47th Anniversary of the Volunteer Fire Department!  Thanks to all of the dedicated volunteers!
​

​​Community groups are always open to new members & volunteers for events and committees. Thanks to all community volunteers!  

Have a safe and happy holiday season!
Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah &
Best Wishes for a Healthy & Happy 2018!



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Lake Ainslie Newsletter    (Vol. 16)        Spring & Summer 2017

6/15/2017

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LAKE AINSLIE NEWSLETTER (VOL. 16)     Spring & Summer 2017
Firemen’s Ceilidh Days, July 4th – 8th
Firemen’s Ceilidh Days are in the works once again and will be held July 4th – 8th this year.  The schedule for the week is:
·   All ages Magic Show on Tuesday, July 4th
·   Merchandise Bingo on Wednesday, July 5th
·   Pub Night with Lynn Chisholm & friends on Thursday, July 6th
·   Roast Beef Dinner on Friday, July 7th
·   Parade Day Saturday, July 8th - Games of chance, BBQ, bake sale, kids games, cake walk, BINGO.
·   Beer Garden on Saturday afternoon with live music by Beech Hill, July 8th
Check out the Inverness Oran and posters for more details and entertainment listings.


Yard Sale/ Flea Market, Scotsville Fire Hall
There will be a flea market/ yard sale at the Fire Hall in Scotsville on Saturday, June 17th starting at 9:30am.  Tables are available, call to book: Donna MacLean or Joan Cameron.
 
LADA Housing Project Presentation
LADA held its Annual General Meeting on Monday, May 29th at the Fire Hall.  The main project LADA was involved in during 2016 was the trail building project.  One of the main priorities going forward is continuing to work on the senior housing committee.  The senior housing committee has been making progress on the plans to create senior housing in the community.  
An important community update meeting will be held in early July.  LADA will share the progress on the senior housing project and seek input and involvement.  All interested community members are encouraged to attend and become involved in ongoing LADA projects.  The meeting will be held in early to mid July.  Watch for more details in the weeks to come.


The Lake Ainslie Newsletter is updated 4 times per year.
Please share the newsletter with anyone who might be interested.  

​
“This world of ours... must avoid becoming a community of dreadful fear and hate, and be, instead, a proud confederation of mutual trust and respect.” - Dwight D. Eisenhower
 


Trail Committee seeks volunteers
The trail committee continues to work to make local trails accessible to the community.  The committee will hold a meeting in June for anyone interested in helping with some upcoming ‘hands on’ projects relating to the trail.  The work to be done includes: physical work on the trails, limbing trees and adding signage, working on developing a map of the trails, naming parts of the trail, and deciding where to place rest stops and benches.  There is currently some ongoing work around the MacDonald House Museum to complete walking trails near the MacDonald House site.  

If you are interested in getting involved in the ongoing support and maintenance of the trails, please attend the committee meeting on Tuesday, June 20th at 7:30pm at the Fire Hall for more details.  All ages and abilities welcome.
 
Lake Ainslie Website & Newsletter
The Lake Ainslie website averages over 20 new views per week.  If you have any suggestions for the website, please send feedback via the submission form or via the Lake Ainslie newsletter email (see below).  Photos, additions to the map, small businesses wishing to be added, and so on are welcome & encouraged.
 
Meetings and events:
Saturday, June 17th    Yard Sale/ Flea Market, Lake Ainslie Volunteer Fire Hall
Tuesday, June 20th     Trail Committee meeting, Fire Hall @ 7:30pm
Firemen's Meeting       First Wednesday of every month, Fire Hall @ 8pm
July 4th to July 8th       Firemen’s Ceilidh Days events!!
Early to mid- July         Senior Housing Update to the community
First week of August     LA Presbyterian Church Annual Roast Beef Supper
 
New members are always welcome to join local volunteer organizations!
If you wish to be on the mailing list for the Lake Ainslie Newsletter
please sign up on the lakeainslie. ca website,
or send an e-mail to lakeainslienewsletter @ gmail.com

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Winter Newsletter 2017          (Volume 15)

2/9/2017

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LAKE AINSLIE NEWSLETTER  (VOL. 15) WINTER 2017 
 
Winter Fest Coasting Party & Pub Night
The popular coasting party will be held on Saturday, February 18th on the hill behind the Fire Hall.  Kids of all ages are invited to make the trek up the big hill for some of the best coasting the winter has to offer.  There will be snacks, juice and hot chocolate in the fire hall during and after the coasting party.  There will also be a movie for the kids shown after the busy day of coasting (after 3pm).   Adults can come out to socialize in the evening for a pub night featuring Pub Trivia and an Open Mic/ Kitchen Party- anyone wishing to sing, tell a story or play an instrument is invited to do so. 

Any member of the community wishing to contribute a plate of cookies or cheese & crackers to the coasting party is invited to do so & thank you in advance for your contribution!

Senior Housing Committee continues to work toward their goal
The Senior Housing Committee of LADA is continuing their work on the goal of creating a senior housing facility in the Lake Ainslie/ Scotsville area.  The group has been researching building options, funding opportunities and options for land.  If you wish to see this project through to fruition, or if you wish to express interest in renting a unit in the future, please contact a member of the committee, or contact: lakeainslienewsletter @gmail.com   The committee will meet this Monday, Feb. 13th at 11am at the Fire Hall.

Solar Coop Information Session
ACE Co-op of Antigonish will hold an information session at the Fire Hall in Scotsville on Thursday, Feb. 23rd at 7pm.  This is the information session that was cancelled due to weather in December.  By making your purchase through the Antigonish Community Energy Coop, you can save on your solar system. ACE will set up homeowners with a free solar assessment to determine the cost and benefit of switching your home to a solar system.  ACE is currently offering their SECOND group- buy for solar installment.  ACE has helped homeowners in our local area (Margaree, Skye Glen, etc…) to successfully install solar panels through their first solar group- buy in 2016.  For more information please check out:  www.acecoop.ca or look for Antigonish Community Energy Coop on Facebook.
 
“What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness.” - John Steinbeck

Events & Meeting Schedule…
​Who said anything about hibernating?!? 

February:
Monday, Feb. 13th:           Senior Housing Committee meeting at the Fire Hall at 11am
Mon. Feb. 13th & Wed. Feb. 15th:    Registration for Winter Classes at the Scotsville School of Crafts- check the Inverness Oran for details on courses & registration.  There are workshops and adult personal interest classes beginning in March.

Saturday, Feb. 18th:         Winter Fest Coasting Party!  Evening pub night/ kitchen party
Thursday, Feb. 23rd:        ACE Solar Coop Information Session @ 7pm, Fire Hall
Saturday, Feb 25th:          Inverness Capers Snowmobile Rally @ Fire Hall

March:
Wednesday, March 1st:   Fire Department Regular Monthly Meeting (8pm)
Monday, March 6th:         Fire Department Fundraising Committee Meeting 
Monday, March 13th:       Regular monthly meeting of LADA, 7pm @ the Fire Hall.
March (date TBA):           SAERC Swimming sponsored by the Fire Dept. (March Break)

April:
Monday, April 3rd:           Fire Department Fundraising Committee Meeting 
Wednesday, April 5th:     Fire Department Regular Monthly Meeting (8pm)
Tuesday, April 11th:        Cribbage Tournament (Fire Hall)
 
The first edition of the Lake Ainslie Newsletter was printed in
Winter 2013… the newsletter is celebrating its 5th Birthday!  
Thank you for reading and subscribing! Please send
suggestions, ideas or events to:  lakeainslienewsletter @ gmail.com
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Autumn Newsletter 2016

10/11/2016

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LAKE AINSLIE NEWSLETTER (VOL. 14)      Fall 2016
 

LADA update… projects continue
LADA has a number of large projects underway, including the senior housing committee & trail committee.  The senior housing committee is seeking new active members to see this project through to fruition. The trail committee has accomplished many amazing things this summer, including building and upgrading trail and building many new bridges along the route, a huge feat for a small group!  A great way to support the trail committee is to go out and experience the trails for yourself.  Watch for events and workshops and please let us know if you would like to become involved in adding signage, benches and rest stops to the new trail network in the future.  If you are on Facebook you can watch for updates on the Lake Ainslie Development Association page.
 
Health & Fitness at the Fire Hall – Mondays and Wednesdays        
9:00am to 10:30am
Aero-tone low impact aerobics and full body toning is held at Lake Ainslie Fire Hall.  Resistance bands are used, ongoing through spring and fall on Mondays & Wednesdays; contact instructor Maggie Herbert for schedule & info (258-3320). Please contact the instructor if you wish to drop in to the class. Fee $23/8 classes + materials.  All ages, men and women welcome.  Dates are subject to change. Snow policy: when the schools are closed, so are we.  This is a scent free class.
 
Fall workshops and games nights at the Scotsville School of Crafts
There are a number of courses and workshops being held at the School of Crafts this fall and winter.  The list of fall events and registration information is available in the Inverness Oran and the Partici-Paper.   Some of the workshops and events being held include:  Scrabble nights, Tile Rummy, and Euchre, drop in to play or learn to play these fun games.  Also, there is a course on using the Internet and Email for Beginners, and Intermediate Weaving “Back to Basics”– beginners are also welcome to learn during this weaving workshop held on Saturday mornings for 8 weeks.
 

Community meetings and events:
Fire Department Meeting      First Wednesday of every month @ 8pm, Fire Hall
Lakeside Impressions           October 10th- 15th (see full schedule on page 2)
Hot & Hearty Lunch               October 12th at noon - Scotsville School of Crafts
LADA Meetings                    Upcoming October/ November meeting dates T.B.A., watch                                               the Inverness Oran, Patterson’s Store and/or our 
                                              Facebook page for details.
 
New members are always welcome to join local volunteer organizations!
 
The Lake Ainslie Newsletter is updated 4 times per year. 
Please share the newsletter with anyone who might be interested.  
If you wish to be on the mailing list for the Lake Ainslie Newsletter
please sign up on the lakeainslie.ca website,
or send an e-mail to lakeainslienewsletter @ gmail. com
 


Lakeside Impressions 2016 -
MONDAY to SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10th to 15th  
Art & Craft Exhibit – Lakeside Impressions, daily from 1:00 – 3:00pm
This is a unique showcase of local arts and crafts for sale or for your viewing pleasure.
 
One- day workshops and programs offered during Lakeside Impressions:
 
Monday, October 10, 2016     
WEAVING DEMONSTRATION   1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Weaving is acknowledged as one of the oldest surviving crafts in the world.  The art of hand weaving is alive and thriving in Cape Breton.  Each year new students come to learn this ancient craft. Come and try your hand at throwing a shuttle. No Fee. Donations accepted.
 
Tuesday, October 11, 2016   
HANDS ON SPINNING DEMONSTRATION     1:00 pm - 3:00pm
At the Scotsville School of Crafts, spinning is yet another ancient craft which is alive and well. Join us there to watch a spinner at work, and, if you'd like to try your hand(s) at it, you are very welcome!  No Fee.  Donations accepted.
 
Wednesday, October 12, 2016     
“CELTIC WALK”         10 am - 12 noon
In 1939, Smeorach nan Cnoc 'S Nan Gleann was published in Glasgow Scotland, containing the works of eleven Gaelic Bards from Saint Joseph's Parish, South-West Margaree, Cape Breton Island. Join Gaelic cultural enthusiasts and singers Geoffrey May and Rebecca-Lynne MacDonald-May for a stroll along the Sou'west Margaree, a member of the Canadian Heritage Rivers System, while sharing some of the songs from Smeorach.  Please gather at Scotsville School of Crafts at 9:45 am.
 
A HOT & HEARTY LUNCH (made from fresh locally grown ingredients)    
12:00 noon to 2pm
Menu: Hearty Homemade Soup and Biscuits with home baked Apple Crumble with ice cream, tea or coffee. Fee: $10.
 
WEAVING DEMONSTRATION      1:00 pm - 3:00 pm       (see explanation above)
 
Thursday, October 13, 2016    
GAELIC SONG AND STORIES      1:00 pm - 3:00 pm
The Highlanders celebrated their culture, not in huge buildings or sculptures, but in their songs.  In these songs, the stories, the history and the people of the highlands come alive.  Fee: $10.
 
Friday, October 14, 2015   
WATERCOLOUR PAINTING “EN PLEIN-AIR”       1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Painting outdoors (weather permitting) with step-by-step instruction. Instructor: Barrie Fraser. Materials included. Fee $25.
 
SHETLAND LACE (with Jenny Beaton)   12:30 pm - 4:00 pm
An introduction to the fine lace knitting that originated in Shetland, Scotland.  Jennifer Beaton will teach us techniques that we can use to create a sample we can take home. Knitting experience is necessary. Fee: $40 – includes all materials.
 
Saturday, October 15, 2015
“CELTIC WALK”   1:30 – 3:30pm  (See explanation above, meet at 1:15pm)   
 

“Autumn carries more gold in its pocket than all the other seasons.”
                                                                         - Jim Bishop
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Newsletter Spring & Summer 2016   (Vol. 13)

5/15/2016

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LAKE AINSLIE NEWSLETTER      (VOL. 13)     Spring & Summer 2016
 
Storytelling & Song Ceilidh May 21st at the Lake Ainslie Fire Hall
There will be a ceilidh and storytelling session held at the Lake Ainslie Firehall on Saturday, May 21st at 6:30pm.   Hugh Don MacLean’s stories of characters and occurrences from the early days of Lakeview Drive have been collected and published as a book.  Hugh Don will share some stories and the collection of stories will be available for purchase. Other entertainers include Sandra Gillis, Dale Gillis, Carmen MacArthur and more.   Tea will be served, everyone welcome.   Donations at the door will go to the Lake Ainslie Volunteer Fire Department.  May is Gaelic Awareness Month.
 
LADA Annual General Meeting
LADA has a number of large projects underway and committees will report on their work at the AGM to be held at the Fire Hall on Monday, May 30th, 2016 at 7pm.  The trail committee has been very busy throughout the winner planning and working behind the scenes to be ready for trail building this spring.  The housing committee has visited samples of senior housing in other rural communities and is now moving forward by seeking a piece of land in the Lake Ainslie area.  The committee has released a statement in the local media seeking a piece of land for the project.  (See the press release on page 2 of this newsletter.)  At the meeting there will also be discussion of the Trout Brook Picnic Park Beach.  All interested community members are encouraged to attend and become involved in ongoing LADA projects.
 
Annual Cod Fish Dinner, East Lake Ainslie Presbyterian Church
The tentative date for the Annual Cod Fish Dinner is June 4th- watch the local paper and church bulletins for more information.  Always a delicious and popular event!
 
Firemen’s Ceilidh Days, July 5th – 9th 
Firemen’s Ceilidh Days are in the works once again and will be held July 5th – 9th this year.  
You will note a few changes in the schedule from previous years.  The schedule for the week is:
  • All ages Magic Show on Tuesday, July 5th
  • Merchandise Bingo on Wednesday, July 6th
  • Pub Night with Lynn Chisholm & friends on Thursday, July 7th
  • Maragan & Ham Dinner on Friday, July 8th
  • Parade Day Saturday - Games of chance, BBQ, bake sale, kids games, cake walk, etc…
  • Beer Garden on Saturday afternoon with live music, July 9th
Check out the Inverness Oran and posters for specific times and entertainment listings.
 
The Lake Ainslie Newsletter is updated 4 times per year. 
Please share the newsletter with anyone who might be interested.  
 
Meetings and events:
Monday, May 30th            LADA Annual General Meeting – all are welcome to attend, 7pm
Saturday, June 4th           Annual Cod Fish Dinner, East Lake Ainslie Presbyterian Church
Firemen's Meeting           Wednesday, June 1st @ 8pm, Fire Hall
 
New members are always welcome to join local volunteer organizations!
 
 
PRESS RELEASE: Lake Ainslie housing group seeks land for senior housing complex.
 
The Lake Ainslie Housing Committee has prioritized the search for a suitable property for the creation of a community senior housing complex in the Lake Ainslie area.  During a well attended meeting late last summer, community members identified a strong need and interest to move forward with the creation of senior housing. Since that time the committee has surveyed the community to look at specific needs and visited two examples of housing in nearby rural areas.
 
The group is currently seeking a donation of land that will assist the group to move forward with this project in a timely manner.  We are seeking a minimum 10 acres, potentially 20 to 30 acres. The area we have identified as suitable includes East Lake Ainslie from the Trout River area to Scotsville, North Lake, or Kenloch.  This area has been selected as being the closest to amenities, population, and a more heavily travelled area.
 
All inquiries will be kept confidential.  Any discussion would include the housing committee covering the cost of the legal fees of land transfer and/or the group is looking into a tax benefit for donors.  
 
The Lake Ainslie Housing Committee sees this as an opportunity for a family or individual to make a significant and long lasting contribution to their community.  
 
If you have any questions or wish to discuss a potential donation of land, please phone or e-mail the following contact persons:  LADA Chairperson: [email protected], or Maggie Herbert: [email protected] or, phone Doug & Val MacEachern 902-756-3423 or Joan Cameron 902-258-2546. 
 
Anyone interested in seeing senior housing created at Lake Ainslie is welcome and encouraged to become involved in this committee.
 
“It is always a blessing to learn the wisdom from elderly people.”
                                                                                                            ― Lailah Gifty Akit
 
If you wish to be on the mailing list for the Lake Ainslie Newsletter
please sign up on the lakeainslie.ca website,
or send an e-mail to [email protected]
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Winter Newsletter 2016

2/13/2016

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LAKE AINSLIE NEWSLETTER  (VOL. 12)        Winter, 2016
 
WinterFest Coasting Party & Snowshoe hike February 13th!
WinterFest events have been scheduled for Saturday, February 13th.  There will be a sledding/ coasting party for all ages, at 1pm, sledding on the hill behind the Fire Hall.  Juice, hot chocolate and snacks will be provided in the Fire Hall during and after the coasting party from 1pm to 3pm.  There will be a snowshoe hike at 3pm, meet at the fire hall also.  Please bring your own snowshoes.  Everyone is welcome! Hope to see you there!
 
Trail Committee update
The trail committee recently received a cheque for $65,000.00 from Trans Canada Trails (TCT) to continue Phase 2 of the trail project in the Lake Ainslie area.  This money was applied for by the LADA trail committee as part of the 51km trail building project connecting the Kenloch area to Whycocomagh trail network. This money will go toward engineering services and building and replacing bridges along the route.  The goal is to complete the TCT by Canada’s anniversary year in 2017.  If you wish to get involved or help out with the committee in any way, please speak to Mike Gillis or Coralie Cameron.
 
Snowmobile Clubs fundraising for new Trail Groomer
The local snowmobile clubs are fundraising for a new trail groomer.  There is a committed group of volunteers who maintain and run the groomers at all hours to keep the trails open and accessible for trail users.  The current groomers are old and in need of constant repair.  Snowmobilers, cross country skiers, hikers and snowshoe-ers benefit from a large network of groomed trails in the area.  If you wish to make a donation to the purchase of the new trail groomer, please contact Inverness Capers Snowmobile Club.
 
Scotsville School of Crafts hosting winter programs
Registration will be held in February for Inverness County Recreation workshops and classes.  Once again the Scotsville School of Crafts will host various classes such as Intermediate Weaving, Internet and E-mail for beginners, as well as social events such as Scrabble and Euchre nights.  Please see the Partici-Paper and Inverness Oran for more details.  Registration dates are February 15th and 17th.
 
 
“What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter
to give it sweetness?”  - John Steinbeck
                                         
 
LADA Update
The Lake Ainslie Development Association continues to carry out research about the potential of building senior housing in the Lake Ainslie area.  If anyone wishes to get involved in this worthwhile project, or discuss potential land that can be used for the project, please get in touch!  LADA is researching funding options and looking into becoming a group with charitable status for tax and donation purposes. 
 
Getting fit at the Fire Hall
"Aerotone" fitness classes are ongoing 9:00 to 10:30 am.  Low-impact aerobic exercise plus resistance/strength, flexibility and balance training.  Suitable for women and men of all ages.  First session is free; $20 + $3 tax for 8 sessions.  Call Maggie 258-3320 for schedule and program details.  (Note that drop-ins are discouraged due to insurance considerations.)
 
The Lake Ainslie Newsletter is updated 4 times per year. 
Please share the newsletter with anyone who might be interested.  
If you wish to be on the mailing list please sign up on the lakeainslie.ca website,
or send an e-mail to [email protected]
The LADA is on Facebook, look for the Lake Ainslie Development Association
 
 
Save the date, don’t hibernate!! 
Saturday, February 13th      Coasting party 1pm & Snowshoe hike at 3pm, all ages welcome!
Monday, February 15th        3-4pm Registration for Country Recreation events, Scotsville School of Crafts
& Wednesday, Feb. 17th      6-7pm Registration for Country Recreation events, Scotsville School of Crafts
Saturday, February 27th      Inverness Capers Club Snowmobile Rally, leaving from the Fire Hall
Saturday, March 12th          John MacMaster Memorial Snowmobile Run leaving from the Fire Hall
 
Meetings:
Firemen's Regular Monthly Meetings:     March 2nd @ 8pm
Fundraising Committee Meetings:           March 7th @ 7pm
LADA Meeting (Housing & Trails)            Mon. Feb. 22nd @ 7pm Fire Hall
 
 
“I wonder if the snow loves the trees and fields, that it kisses them so gently?
And then it covers them up snug, you know, with a white quilt; and perhaps it says
“Go to sleep, darlings, till the summer comes again.” – Lewis Carroll
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October 12th, 2015

10/12/2015

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LAKE AINSLIE NEWSLETTER  (VOL. 11)           Fall, 2015
 
Lakeside Impressions is on now!
Each year during Celtic Colours, the crafters and artists of the Lake Ainslie Weavers and Craft Guild organize demonstrations and activities for visitors and local people alike.  This year there will be a full week of events beginning on October 12th.  Please see page 2 of this newsletter (below) for the full list of events for Lakeside Impressions and be sure to check out this one of a kind, hands-on event.
 
Fall programming at Scotsville School of Crafts
Registration is now open for fall courses at the Scotsville School of Crafts. Events and courses include weekly Euchre night, Scrabble game nights, low impact aerobics, beginner Internet and E-mail classes, and Intermediate/ Beginner weaving with Eileen MacNeil.  Programmer for registration is Verna MacMillan. All courses are supported by the Municipality of the County of Inverness; watch for full details of registration dates in the Partici-Paper. 
 
Senior Housing Committee work continues
Members of the senior housing committee continue to work as a committee of LADA to move the idea of creating senior housing at the Lake to reality.  The direction the group is taking is exploring options for “non-profit housing.”  In September, the group travelled to Cheticamp to visit a senior housing complex built by that community and the committee was very impressed with what they saw.  The committee also distributed a survey to members of the Lake Ainslie area and if you wish to complete a survey to show your interest in senior housing, please contact Joan Cameron or Maggie Herbert.  If you wish to get involved, or if you have land you would like to offer to this project, please contact a member of the committee.  The next steps will be to consider land, funding options and the size of the housing unit that can be sustained at the Lake.   The committee meets at the regular monthly meetings of LADA.
 
Fire Prevention Month
This is fire prevention month, the Lake Ainslie Volunteer Fire Department held their annual open house and distributed smoke detector and educational information to keep homes and families safe. Don’t forget to replace the batteries in your smoke detector, have a plan for escaping a fire, and prepare your wood stove and chimney for the upcoming winter season.  Thanks to the Volunteer Fire Department for their ongoing work in the community. 
 
“I trust in nature for the stable laws of beauty and utility.
             Spring shall plant and autumn garner to the end of time.”
                                                                             ~ Robert Browning
 
The Lake Ainslie Newsletter is updated 4 times per year. 
Please share the newsletter with anyone who might be interested.  
If you wish to be on the mailing list please sign up on the lakeainslie.ca website,
or send an e-mail to [email protected]
Please send your events to be included to: [email protected]


“Lakeside Impressions” at the Scotsville School of Crafts!
 
MONDAY – SATURDAY, OCTOBER 12 – 17
1:00 – 3:00 pm: Art & Craft Exhibit – Lakeside Impressions
This is a unique showcase of local arts and crafts for sale or for your viewing pleasure.
 
1:00 pm – 3:00 pm: Quilting Bee
Starting with the hand pieced Quilt Top called “Grandmothers Fan”, the Batting for lining and the Backing, this Quilt will be wound on Quilting frame on Monday afternoon, ready for quilting. Come and watch! Then we would like to have experienced quilters to show the newbies the stitching. Everyone welcome to try their hand. Leaders: Bea Tilsley Cunningham and Christine Hayes: No fee.
 
Monday, October 12, 2015
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm WEAVING DEMONSTRATION
Weaving is acknowledged as one of the oldest surviving crafts in the world. The art of hand weaving is alive and thriving in Cape Breton. Each year new students come to learn this ancient craft. Come and try your hand at throwing a shuttle. No Fee. Donations accepted.
 
Tuesday, October 13, 2015
12:30 pm - 4:00 pm: SHETLAND LACE (with Jenny Beaton.)
An introduction to the fine lace knitting that originated in Shetland Scotland. Jennifer Beaton will teach us techniques that we can use to create a sample we can take home. Knitting experience is necessary. Fee: $40 – includes all materials.
 
Wednesday, October 14, 2015
10 am - 12 noon: “CELTIC WALK”
In 1939, Smeorach nan Cnoc 'S Nan Gleann was published in Glasgow Scotland, containing the works of eleven Gaelic Bards from Saint Joseph's Parish, South-West Margaree, Cape Breton Island. (We will walk along a lightly used gravel road, with a level grade) At the end of the walk Geoffrey will pass his hat. Please gather at Scotsville School of Crafts at 9:45 am.
 
12:00 noon: A HOT & HEARTY LUNCH (made from fresh locally grown ingredients.)
Menu: Hearty Homemade Soup and Biscuits with home baked Apple Crumble, tea or coffee. Fee: $10.
 
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm: SQUARE DANCING LESSONS (with fiddler.)
Learn a few steps from Alice Freeman and then put them to practice in a local traditional Cape Breton square dance. Fee: $20.
 
Thursday, October 15, 2015
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm: GAELIC SONG AND STORIES
The Highlanders celebrated their culture, not in huge buildings or sculptures, but in their songs. In these songs, the stories, the history and the people of the highlands come alive. Fee: $10.
 
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm: CIRCULAR SOCK KNITTING MACHINE DEMONSTRATION (by Eileen MacNeil): Most people these days have never heard of a Circular Sock Machine. These hand-cranked machines have a long history. They are also called CSM’s (Circular Sock Machines) because they knit a circular tube. No Fee, Donations accepted.
 
Friday, October 16, 2015
1:00 pm - 3:00 pm: HANDS ON SPINNING DEMONSTRATION
At the Scotsville School of Crafts, spinning is yet another ancient craft which is alive and well. Join us there to watch a spinner at work, and, if you'd like to try your hand(s) at it, you are very welcome! No Fee. Donations accepted.
 
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm: WATERCOLOUR PAINTING “EN PLEIN-AIR”
Painting outdoors (weather permitting) with step by step instruction. Instructor: Barrie Fraser. Materials included. Fee $25.
 
Saturday, October 17, 2015
12:00 pm - 4:00 pm: “CRAFT DINNER”
Come join us at the Scotsville School of Crafts for our monthly craft potluck! Drop in and bring your knitting, spinning, embroidery, crochet, lace making, weaving, painting, jewelry making - whatever you are working on. Join the guild to use the equipment at the school. Members free; donations from non-members are much appreciated.
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Lake Ainslie Newsletter (Volume 10) Spring/ Summer 2015

6/7/2015

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LAKE AINSLIE NEWSLETTER (VOL. 10) Spring & Summer 2015

Firemen’s Ceilidh Days July 7th – 11th  
Firemen’s Ceilidh Days will be in full swing during the week of July 7th – 11th.   The schedule for the week is:
·      Adult square dance on Tuesday night
·      Merchandise Bingo on Wednesday
·      Pub Night on Thursday
·      Maragan Dinner on Friday and
·      The popular Parade Day and games of chance and bake sale on Saturday.  
Check out the Inverness Oran for specific times and entertainment listings.

 
Walking on the trail – “meet up” on Thursday mornings
There will be a “meet up” scheduled to walk on the trail below Lakeview Drive, one morning a week – every Thursday morning at 8:30am for the month of June and into July.   The trail is lovely but some people prefer not to walk on the trail alone due to the potential of meeting up with a wild animal.  The trail is very level and smooth and safe for walking, biking or pushing a stroller.  Go at your own pace and know there are others nearby, or walk with the group.

Senior housing committee is looking into potential projects
The recently formed housing committee of LADA travelled to the community of St. Andrews, just outside Antigonish, in early May to view a senior housing complex that was built by that community and to speak to committee members about their process.  The visit was very informative & inspiring, with the St. Andrews committee members sharing valuable tips and information.  Members of the Lake Ainslie group toured the building, viewed one of the apartments and common areas and found it very exciting to see what the community was able to accomplish.  Watch for more details, information and future community meetings at the Lake as the group carries this idea forward. 

 
“Thoughts come clearly while one walks.” ~Thomas Mann

After dinner sit awhile, after supper walk a mile. ~English Proverb

“But in every walk with Nature one receives far more than he seeks.”
~John Muir, July 1877


Square dances return to Tuesday nights at the Fire Hall
The Lake Ainslie Volunteer Fire Department will host six adult square dances this summer on Tuesday evenings at the Fire Hall.  Watch for the schedule to be published and weekly updates in the Inverness Oran for details about the weekly fiddlers.  The dances are a good chance to hear some great music and chat with friends who are “home from away,” while supporting the Fire Department.   


The Lake Ainslie Newsletter is updated 4 times per year. 
Please share the newsletter with anyone who might be interested.  
If you wish to be on the mailing list please sign up on the lakeainslie.ca website,
or send an e-mail to [email protected]


Mark your calendar! 
Saturday, June 13th     Annual Cod Fish Dinner, East Lake Ainslie Presbyterian Church
Tuesday, July 7th         Adult Square Dance
Wednesday, July 8th    Merchandise BINGO
Thursday, July 9th        Pub Night
Friday, July 10th           Maragan & Ham Supper
Saturday, July 11th      Parade Day, BBQ, games of chance, bake sale, Bingo, etc…!
 
Meetings:
Firemen's Meeting                                        Wednesday, June 3rd @ 8pm, Fire Hall
Lake Ainslie Development Association        Monday, June 8th @ 7:00pm, Fire Hall
Lake Ainslie Trail Committee                       June, (date T.B.A.), 8pm at the Fire Hall

New members are always welcome to join local volunteer organizations!

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Lake Ainslie Newsletter     (Volume 9)                 Winter 2015

2/1/2015

 
Lake Ainslie Newsletter            (Volume 9)                     Winter 2015
LADA - seeking individuals & input for senior housing committee
LADA is moving forward on the topic of senior housing in the community.  In two surveys of the community over the past ten years, the need for senior housing was identified as a priority.  In order to move plans forward, LADA will strike a committee to examine the options for senior housing.  If you wish to lend your ideas or explore this important topic, please considering joining the committee.  Any individual, whether you will need senior housing in 5 years or 50 years, is encouraged to get involved.  The committee will officially be formed at the February 9th meeting of LADA and any interested persons wishing to put their name forward are encouraged to get in touch with Coralie Cameron or another member of the executive, if you can’t attend the meeting. 

Country Western Valentine Pub Night/ Dance on February 14th!
Get your boots & hats ready to kick up your heels at the Country Western Barn Dance at the Fire Hall on Valentine’s Day!  The Fire Department is hosting a pub night/dance and the music is by Lynn Chisholm & Band.  Dressing up in your country and western clothing is encouraged and it’s sure to be a good time!  Admission is $10 ages 19 +.   Watch the Oran for final details.

WinterFest on February 14th
WinterFest / WinterActive events have been scheduled for Saturday, February 14th.  There will be a sledding/ coasting party for all ages, at 1pm, meeting at the Firehall and sledding on the hill behind the Hall.  Juice, hot chocolate and cookies will be provided in the Fire Hall during and after the coasting party.  At 3pm there will be a cross-country ski/ snowshoe event on the trail/ Lower Road on Lakeview Drive.  Meet at 2:45pm, skis and snowshoes will be provided from the Municipality for anyone who does not have skis or snowshoes.  Storm date will be Saturday, Feb. 21st.   WinterFest is supported by the Winter Active grant from the Municipality.

LADA Executive update
At the January 12th meeting of LADA, the executive welcomed Amy MacDonald to the position of Treasurer.  Greg Nearing stepped down as treasurer and was thanked for his many, many years of service and contribution to LADA.  Thank you to Greg & Amy for sharing your time and your skills!  As of the June 2014 meeting, most positions on the executive have changed and the current executive of LADA consists of: Coralie Cameron, Chair; Rebecca Parkins, Vice Chair; Amy MacDonald, Treasurer; and Bill McCarthy, Secretary.  Anyone wishing to get involved in LADA is encouraged to do so.


Winter, a lingering season, is a time to gather golden moments, embark upon a sentimental journey, and enjoy every idle hour.-     John Boswell

 
“Craft Dinner” at the Scotsville School of Crafts
Saturday, February 14th the Scotsville School of Crafts will hold their monthly “Craft Dinner.”  This is a day where crafters bring a project they are working on and bring some food for the potluck lunch.   Everyone is welcome to join fellow crafters - Bring your knitting! Quilting! Embroidery! Crochet! Weaving!  Your half-finished projects! Or any other high- fibre activity!  (Painting, jewellery- making, and all other creative pursuits are welcome too!)  The craft dinner gathering is from 10 to 2 pm (drop in and say hi, or stay all day). Bring your own lunch or a meal to share.  A casual and fun day of crafting to break up the long winter days.

Trail Committee update
The trail committee recently received a grant of $29,000 from Trans Canada Trails (TCT) that they applied for in the fall.  This money is to complete a new section of trail leaving the railbed and connecting to Kenloch. This is just the first stage in the trail committee’s ambitious project to complete a 51 kilometer section of trail from Kenloch to McNaughton Mountain Road & the Whycocomagh network of trails.  The trail will be part of the Canada wide trail network, and the goal is to complete the TCT by Canada’s anniversary year in 2017.  If you wish to get involved or help out with the committee, please speak to Mike Gillis or David MacLean.

Getting fit at the Fire Hall
"Aerotone" fitness classes are ongoing Monday and Wednesday 9:00 to 10:30 thru early May. Low-impact aerobic exercise plus resistance/strength, flexibility and balance training, suitable for women and men of all ages.  First session is free; $20 + $3 tax for 8 sessions.  Call Maggie 258-3320 for schedule and program details.  (Note that drop-ins are discouraged due to insurance considerations.)

The Lake Ainslie Newsletter is updated 4 times per year. 
Please share the newsletter with anyone who might be interested.  
If you wish to be on the mailing list please sign up on the lakeainslie.ca website,
or send an e-mail to [email protected]
The LADA is on Facebook, look for the Lake Ainslie Development Association

 
Save the date, don’t hibernate!!
Saturday, February 14th   “Craft Dinner” at the School of Crafts, 10am -2pm
Saturday, February 14th    Coasting party at the FireHall, 1pm – all ages welcome! 
                                           Snowshoeing & Skiing at 3pm, Lower Road, Lakeview Drive
Saturday, February 14th    Valentine’s Day Country Western Pub/ Dance at the Fire Hall 
Monday, February  16th     Heritage Day - Viola Desmond Day Holiday
Saturday, February 21st     Capers Club Snowmobile Rally, leaving from the Fire Hall 

Meetings:
Firemen's Regular Monthly Meetings:     Wed. Feb. 4th & Wed. March 4th @ 8pm
Fundraising Committee Meetings:           Mon. Feb. 2nd & Mon. March 2nd @ 7pm
Lake Ainslie Development Association:   Mon. Feb. 9th @ 7:00pm at the Fire Hall

Lake Ainslie Newsletter           (Vol. 7)              Fall 2014

9/25/2014

 
LAKE AINSLIE NEWSLETTER     (VOL. 7)          Fall 2014

Strait Area Transit is making stops at Lake Ainslie
The Strait Area Transit bus is now travelling through East Lake Ainslie on their daily route.  The bus costs just $5.00 and there are different route choices as the bus travels through the communities of Inverness- Port Hawkesbury –Whycocomagh.
The bus stops at Patterson’s Store at 9:35am and goes to the Inverness Hospital and Manor.
The bus also picks up at Patterson’s at 7:56am to go to Port Hawkesbury via Whycocomagh.  And the bus will take you from Port Hawkesbury, through Inverness, arriving at Patterson’s at 5:42pm daily, as it travels on to Whycocomagh and Port Hawkesbury.  You can pick up a pamphlet listing all stops or check them out online www.facebook.com/StraitAreaTransit


"Soup & Sharing" event on Monday
September is Local Food month.  LADA will host a “Soup & Sharing” event on Monday, September 29th at 6pm at the Fire Hall in Scotsville.  Guest speaker will be Georgia MacNeil, of the Ecology Action Center who will talk about the importance of supporting local food producers. 
Feel free to bring soup to share, or tips, ideas and questions about how to save the harvest from your garden.  Rolls and tea will be provided by LADA.  You do not have to provide soup in order to attend- come and sample soup provided and pick up a new recipe. Learn some ideas for harvesting and saving your fresh produce and share what works for you!


Fire Prevention Week
The Lake Ainslie Volunteer Fire Department will host their annual Open House for Fire Prevention week on October 8th at 7pm.  Everyone is welcome to stop by the Fire Hall to learn about fire safety & prevention tips. 

The Fire Department also plans to have a dance with live music in mid November... watch the Inverness Oran for details.


There is now a Little Free Library at the Lake!
The Historical Society has created a Little Free Library at the Lake, have you seen it? 
The Little Free Library is located at the driveway of Nature Lost & Found Art Gallery, near Tannahill Hall.  The Little Free Library is a worldwide network that works on the principle of “take a book, leave a book.”   To see where the free libraries are worldwide, check the website: www.littlefreelibrary.org

      “Autumn, the year’s last, loveliest smile.”
                                                                                  -William Cullen Bryant

LADA update
LADA volunteers put up the newly purchased "Welcome to Lake Ainslie" signage at the three entrances to the Lake.  Thanks to the volunteers for helping out on the sign project, and also to Central Supplies for donating material to erect the signs.  LADA is looking at doing a viewscape project to open up views of the Lake, and also supporting Gaelic classes in the area.


Milling Frolic was a success
A milling frolic was at the fire hall in August and it was very well attended and a fun social event.  Over 50 people came out to take part or just listen to the singing and chat with friends and neighbours. Tea and food was provided and many people asked the organizer, Carmen MacArthur, when the next milling frolic would be held.  Watch for details on future events.


Fall Classes – Municipal Recreation Department
Fall classes are beginning soon, registration has been held at the Scotsville School of Crafts. One-day workshops can still be registered for if space allows.  Check the Partici-paper for details.


Trail Committee
The Trail Committee met on Tuesday, September 23rd.  The group has a lot of work to do to prepare the trails for winter snowmobile season.


Don’t fall behind… save the date!
Monday, Sept. 29th -    Soup & Sharing “Local Food” evening at the Fire Hall
Wednesday, Oct. 1st -  Firemen’s Regular Monthly Meeting
Monday, Oct. 6th -        Lake Ainslie Fire Department fundraising committee meeting
Wednesday, Oct. 8th -  Fire Prevention Week Open House at the Fire Hall
Wednesday, Oct. 8th -  Meeting of Presbytery Pastoral Charge at East Lake
                                       Presbyterian Church
Saturday, Oct. 11th -    Annual Fall Fair at the South West Margaree Parish Hall;
                                       bake sale, games, flea market
Monday, Oct. 13th -      LADA Meeting, Fire Hall, 7:30pm

The Lake Ainslie Newsletter is updated 4 times per year. 
Please share the newsletter with anyone who might be interested. 
If you wish to be on the mailing list please sign up on the lakeainslie.ca website,
or send an e-mail to [email protected]
Please send your events to be included to: [email protected]

Please check the community calendar on the lakeainslie.ca website for ongoing event updates.

            Happy Thanksgiving & Happy Hallowe’en!
Sunday, November 2nd – Daylight Savings Time Ends

Lake Ainslie Newsletter    (Vol. 6)     Spring, 2014

6/3/2014

 
LAKE AINSLIE NEWSLETTER   (VOL. 6)         Spring, 2014

Firemen’s Ceilidh Days are fast approaching …
Firemen’s Ceilidh Days are once again being held on the first week of July, from the 1st to the 5th.  The week will start off with a square dance on Tuesday night, Merchandise BINGO on Wednesday, Pub Night on Thursday, Maragan & Ham Supper on Friday and the popular Parade and games of chance, BBQ & bake sale on Saturday.  Check out the next page and the Oran for the full schedule of events… including a possible ball tournament happening on Monday as part of Ceilidh Days!

The 20th Annual Donald MacKinnon Fishing Derby
The Derby will be held Saturday, June 7th at MacKinnon’s Campground.  It is NS Sport Fishing Weekend, no license required.  For information on the Derby, call MacKinnon’s Campground.

Yoga at the Fire Hall in the month of June
Dannsair Fitness will offer yoga classes each Tuesday night from 6:30 to 7:30pm, starting the spring session on Tuesday, June 3rd.  This session will only last for the month of June and yoga will not be offered at the Hall during the summer.  $10.00 to drop in for the yoga session.  

Trails are taking shape…
The trail committee was very busy in the fall, the Lower Road below Lakeview Drive was trimmed and ditched and there was a portion of trail fixed up between the bridge at Patterson’s and the bridge on Lakeview Drive – this makes for a lovely walk!   Some sections of trail will have benches added and interpretive signage about the community.  Anyone wishing to help upgrade the trails and/or contribute to information on signage is encouraged to do so.  The committee plans to apply for Trans Canada Trail funding and continue the trail toward Whycocomagh, creating walking trails connecting to the MacDonald House Museum.  Saturday, June 7th is International Trails Day.  The community of Whycocomagh will hold a grand opening of their walking trail on June 7th.  Watch for upcoming trail events in the Scotsville area, including a community gathering to check out the recent trail work completed. 

LADA Meeting
The next LADA meeting is scheduled for Monday, June 9th at 7:30pm at the Fire Hall.  The former Chair of LADA has stepped down so the meeting will include time to elect new Executive members.  Any concerns or ideas about the Lake Ainslie area can be brought to this meeting for discussion.  New members are needed for the Board Executive.  If you have an interest in any new or ongoing projects, please come out and offer your time and opinion to the LADA Board.

“I love spring anywhere, but if I could choose I would always greet it in a garden.”
                                                                                                ― Ruth Stout

“The greatest fine art of the future will be the making of a comfortable living from a small piece of land.”   ― Abraham Lincoln

Comedy Debut during Ceilidh Days!
“MOO’nlighting Productions” will debut a new set of comedy and skits with hilarious characters on Thursday, July 3rd during Firemen’s Ceilidh Days’ Annual Adult Pub Night. The hilarious comedy of Diane Mouland & Cindy O’Neill is sure to be a crowd pleaser!

Summer Square Dances
The square dance schedule for the Fire Hall has been pared down this year due to small crowds at the dances in previous years.  The time of the dances has been changed so they will begin at 9pm instead of 10pm, hoping to attract a few more people who appreciate the early start time.  Come out and enjoy some great live music and a ceilidh with your neighbours and friends. 

Milling Frolic being scheduled for this summer
Milling Frolics were common activities in the Lake Ainslie area at one time.  Carmen MacArthur, a local Gaelic teacher is hoping to bring back this tradition, by having singers come together to carry on this fun gathering tradition.  Watch for a milling frolic to be scheduled in the area in the next few months. 

MacDonald House Museum
The MacDonald House Museum has advertised for 2 summer student positions.  Watch for ongoing summer programming at the Museum during the months of July and August.

The Lake Ainslie Newsletter is updated 4 times per year. 
Please share the newsletter with anyone who might be interested.  
If you wish to be on the mailing list please sign up on the lakeainslie.ca website,
or send an e-mail to [email protected]
Please send your events to be included to: [email protected]

A few things to look forward to…
Saturday, June 7th                 20th Annual Donald MacKinnon Memorial Fishing Derby,
                                                MacKinnon’s Campground
Saturday, June 14th               Annual Cod Fish Dinner, East Lake Ainslie Presbyterian Church
Tuesday, July 1st                    Adult Square Dance, 9:00pm
Wednesday, July 2nd            Merchandise BINGO
Thursday, July 3rd                 Pub Night with “MOO’nlighting Productions” (age 19+)
Friday, July 4th                       Maragan & Ham Supper
Saturday, July 5th                  Parade Day, BBQ, games, check the Oran for more details
                                               Beer Garden, 4pm – 8pm with live music by “No Filter” (age 19+)

Upcoming Meetings:
Lake Ainslie Trail Committee                       Tuesday, June 3rd @ 7:45pm, Fire Hall
Firemen's Monthly Meeting                         Wednesday, June 4th @ 8pm, Fire Hall
Lake Ainslie Development Association        Monday, June 9th @ 7:30pm, Fire Hall
Fire Hall clean up evening                           Wednesday, June 18th
Presbytery of Cape Breton Meeting             Tuesday, June 24th @ 7:30pm, East Lake Presbyterian
                                                                     Church, all are welcome

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