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Mayor or marrier? (Sorry.)
Later today, 25 same-sex couples will renew their vows under the officiating of Mayor Mike Savage. It’s all to commemorate the 10th anniversary of Canada’s Civil Marriage Act and the legalization of same-sex marriages. Events kick off at Grand Parade at noon, with music by the Maritime Brass Quintet, and refreshments by cupcakes.
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Locking dogs in cars is still hot, hot, hot! There have been only 50 incidents reported of dogs locked in hot cars this summer, which is down considerably from the 425 total incidents last summer. So unless the city really ramps up its dog-locking efforts, it would seem increased awareness and Mic Mac Mall’s pet patrol program are working. Owners who leave a dog in a car can face fines just over $400 and be talked about on social media for weeks.
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What’s the worst tree in Halifax? Easily it’s the Norway maple. Exactly why the city is battling against this invasive species has been nicely outlined in this film noir-inspired video from our good friends at PLANifax. Don’t be a sap, branch out and watch it.
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Halifax’s outgoing-poet laureate and powerful community voice El Jones is leaving Nova Scotia this summer to take a job in Iowa. Jones, who’s been a leading figure in Halifax for many issues ranging from black culture and feminism, to prison reform poverty reduction. Jones tells CBC she’d love to stay in Nova Scotia, but simply can’t find permanent work. Reporter Catharine Tunney frames the story within the province’s gaping unemployment rate, but Jones’ departure may hit the social activism community the most. Regardless, everyone at The Coast wishes her safe travels and the best success.
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Calling Dr. Drone—the local drone retail and repair centre will be donating an $1,800 drone this afternoon to Dalhousie’s SuperNOVA educational summer camp. It’s a big time for drones, though John Liddard (co-owner of drone company Flitelab) says it may be time for Halifax to look at stricter regulations on who can fly what, where. The “cowboy drones” with their “four Cuisinart blades” can prove a danger to the public should they fall from the sky or gain sentience.
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Dalhousie University is launching an indigenous studies program this fall. Coordinator Diana Lewis says the new program is “so timely and it’s so needed.” Topics will include historical and contemporary First Nations issues, as well as lectures on murdered and missing indigenous women and the Idle No More movement. The minor program will be open to Dal students, as well as those from Saint Mary’s University and NSCAD. More info from Metro’s Stephanie Taylor here.
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You like walking? You like drinking? Great! Get your step count up this weekend by making your own craft beer walking tour of the city. We’ve rounded up five great spots to grab a local wobbly pop, feel free to add Long Lake—or your pal Mike’s back deck—to the mix.
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In our continued efforts to make sure that you enjoy the hell out of all things summer, we dug deep into an incredibly important local issue this week—strawberry shortcake. Melissa Buote got the goods from Manual Co.’s Emma Adamski on how to master the seasonal pile of berries and cream. Turns out, it all comes down to the biscuit, and Manual was kind enough to share its recipe.
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Gavin Gardiner of The Wooden Sky took some time out of his busy touring schedule to chat with The Coast about tour life, Halifax Pop Explosion and his future plans.
You can catch The Wooden Sky tonight at The Carleton.
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Also appealing to the musically inclined, but more so those who want to dance themselves into puddles of sweat, is tonight's Homotown—a night of soul, funk and motown tunes courtesy of DJs Simon Thibault and Regalia. It's five bucks, it's at The Company House and its calling your name.
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It’s Friday, baby!
