Every week I will highlight individuals, groups and businesses who are stepping up and leading the way in the COVID- 19 era. This week, I had the opportunity to present certificates to residents in our community who have made a difference in Dartmouth East not only throughout COVID- 19, but for many years.
These certificates are from the Member's Statements I delivered in the Nova Scotia House of Assembly, honoring their contributions to our community.
Pat Riley was a music instructor at Long & McQuaid on Main St. and has been a community leader and coach for many years. He developed the Summer Rock camp that allows youth from across HRM to develop skills and play music together. Some of his successful students include Joel Plaskett and Matt Mays. I want to thank Pat Riley for being such a great role model for aspiring musicians and for being such a great community leader.
Amy Spurway is a local author originally from Cape Breton. She is involved in local theater in Dartmouth, but she is also the author of Crow. Her book was recently shortlisted for the Stephen Medel for humor and she placed as the runner up! Congratulations Amy! Her book has been described as 'Sharp Cape Breton humor, big twists, big drama and big personality.' Sounds like some of my colleagues in the House of Assembly! 'Crow' is a fantastic choice if you're looking for a pandemic read.
Phil Power is a Halifax Regional Police Officer and TaeKwonDo Master at Grasshoppers Martial Arts. Phil is a strong community advocate and leader, building positive relationships between police and communities. In 2017, Phil took the initiative to start a scholarship program to give ten children the opportunity to study martial arts free of cost at Grasshoppers. Phil most recently placed a giant billboard in the Waverley Rd. thanking all frontline workers during the pandemic. I want to thank Phil and all our Police Officers throughout NS who serve and protect.
Patricia Tenwolde was a teacher at Ian Forsyth Elementary for many years. I know we all recognize the impact a passionate and committed teacher can have on our students and communities. They often lay a foundation for a love of learning. A great teacher allows their students to feel safe and take risks. Pat Tenwolde is that teacher. Now retired, Dartmouth East has not forgotten the impact of her teaching on our young community.
This is just a small sample of folks making a difference in our community of Dartmouth East. It is my intention to highlight their stories every week on my blog. If you have suggestions on who I should highlight I can be contacted at [email protected].
Stay Strong. Stay safe. Stay positive.
Tim