Category Archives: Antigonish

Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Canada

Mahoneys Beach

 

 

Mahoneys Beach is situated at the mouth of Antigonish Harbour along the Sunrise Trail, just 11 KM out of Antigonish on Route 337.

 

View on Route 337

View on Route 337
 Along the route are beautiful views of rolling farmland, dairy farms and some spectacular glimpses of the meandering Antigonish Harbour.
Mahoneys Beach

Mahoneys Beach

 

 Mahoneys Beach is a relaxing sand and beach stone sand bar that you can walk along at low tide. Explore the lagoons and sandbar, the tide pools, and beach grasses and flowers.

Heron Fishing in Tide Pool

 

 I was lucky to see herons skimming along the coastline, wading in the tidal pools and fishing.

Kayak at Mahoneys Beach on a calm day

 

 On a calm day people were enjoying kayaking along the coast line. The many coves and islets make it an interesting place to explore.

Mahoneys Beach Collage

Mahoneys Beach Collage

Things to take

  • Beach shoes for walking on rocks
  • Hat, sun glasses, sun screen, long sleeve shirt
  • Insect repellent
  • Water
  • Snack – or grab a sandwich or Salad from the Prissy Pig Café and Deli on your way out of town
  • Camera

Directions

  • Head out of Antigonish past the hospital towards Cape George on Hwy 337 , along the Sunrise Trail approximately 11 KM. Turn right.
  • Parking available. No lifeguards or beach services

Aerial View of Coastline and Antigonish Harbour

Mahoney’s Beach – Aerial View Google

Spring in Nova Scotia

It has been many years since I experienced spring in Nova Scotia. What an amazing season of the year.  Buds and blossoms appear and unfold into masses of flowers and leaves — all in an amazingly short time.   Even with cloudy days – it just seemed to take a few hours of sun to have things burst into color.

Each tree had its own shape of bud and unfurling leave patterns.  A joy to watch and almost a magical process since each type of tree seems to be on the same schedule.  Suddenly overnight an entire area burst into flower.

Leaf buds grew and the tiny leaves would appear and come out crisp and shiny in shades of green and reds.  The tiny leaves grow amazingly fast and within days the trees are sporting a lush green canopy.  What an amazing process to go from the sculptured bare branches to the many greens now carpeting the countryside.

The Horse Chestnut trees were particularly amazing.  The buds had a very sculptured look and each day you could watch them grow till they finally burst into the unfurling leaves and the pod with the flower.  The flowers grow to an amazing 10 or more inches long made from tiny white and pink flowers.

 

Along with the colors of course are the bird songs as the birds return from their wintering grounds and feast on the buds and bugs.   The rushing streams and rivers add to the sounds of spring and invite walks and to explore and enjoy being out in nature.

And of course the apple blossoms with their delicate shades of pinks, reds and whites.

See the new Facebook page for Out and About Nova Scotia

The videos on this page are posted on the Facebook page. Please let me know if you have any problem viewing them from that location.

New People’s Place Library

 

 

WOW –  by 5PM today “more than 5,000 people had come through the doors” of the new People’s Place Library in Antigonish according to Eric Stackhouse, Chief Librarian of Pictou – Antigonish Regional Library.  This new happening place on Main Street was buzzing with excitement as people had the opportunity to explore all the nooks and crannies of the building.

People of all ages from toddlers up to seniors all found something just made to order for them – in the children’s room toddlers were listening to a story and looking at the picture book, in another corner two children were putting on a puppet show for their younger sister, other children were admiring the large fish tank.

All over the building there is a variety of beautiful and colorful art work – pennants hanging from the ceiling, paintings displayed in the windows, a beautiful circular stained glass interior window, a huge fireplace with welcoming arm chairs and a carved sculpture mantle, a loom with a resident weaver who will be weaving on site over the next few months, a curving stone bench near the entrance way that reminds you of the sea, and a great mural above the reception desk.

People were lined up to get a library card, check out books and ask questions from the helpful staff.  The staff have been eagerly awaiting their chance to move into this new building which is a dream come true for many who have worked in cramped and difficult conditions for years.

ACALA – the  Antigonish County Adult Learning Association, and Health Connections now have their new home here.  There are study carrels that are perfect for quiet study of for 2 or 3 people to work together.  A large meeting room with a folding door that opens out into the community kitchen, and a small meeting room setup with a multimedia system, whiteboard and work group tables will be perfect for smaller meetings.  There are several areas that are inviting to sit and read or chat or work on a project together.   Computer workstations are available – or you can bring your own computer for the WiFi free area.

Although the outside area is not fully complete you can walk between College Street and the Post Office and when this is fully paved the outside area will be inviting with its patios and  views of Brierly Brook.

Congratulations and thank you to everyone on the tremendous effort that went into the planning and implementation of this new community area on Main Street – the Antigonish Town and County Library – indeed The People’s Place.  It looks like it will become a hub of traffic and interest right in the centre of Antigonish and has opportunities for people of all ages.

Here are a few photos from the opening day – May 24, 2011

Articles

Library Has Room To Spare.  Halifax Chronicle Herald

Art Walk Antigonish

 

 

For a small town, Antigonish has a lot going on in the arts.  Enjoy a walk through town sampling exhibits and art.  The culture of creative people and the support and interest of the community makes this a “happening” place in the arts.

You can do this walk over a day – or spread out your visits.  Park your car and enjoy the spring weather and stroll.  This walk goes from the West end of Main Street (the Post Office end) ending at the East end where Main Street is getting a new bridge.   This walk on Main Street of less than 1 kilometer – plus one side trip to campus will impress you with the variety and creativity of the community.  The current exhibitions listed are for May, 2011.  Check the location websites or just drop in for changes.

ASAP Gallery Opening

ASAP Gallery Opening

ASAP:  All of Us Society for Art Presentation – A small new gallery space currently exhibiting paintings, photography and drawings from 5 art students of St FX – Kara Grant, Steve Scannell, Kevin MacIssac, Travis Myette, and TJ Ediger.  I enjoyed the recent gallery opening and getting to meet the next generation artists.  This place is at the back of the white building between the Post Office and Shoppers.   The summer hours are not posted yet – just see if the door is open and go down the stairs.  Kara Grant will be artist in residence till August.  The Studio, 319 Main St.

Cross the street to the Tall and Small

Tall and Small Cafe

Tall and Small Cafe

The Tall and Small Cafe – This popular café currently displays art from John Watt.  Grab a coffee or a delicious blueberry spritzer.   Hearty vegetarian sandwiches and home made soups are on daily specials.   Art exhibition in June by artists Vicki MacLean and Rudolph Hennninger.  342 Main St.

 

Almost next door

The Made In Nova Scotia Store

The Made In Nova Scotia Store Suzanne Craig Bio Prints

The Made in Nova Scotia Store – Selection of framed or matted photographs, photo gift cards and bio art prints.  All items in the store are from local artists and artisans.   www.themadeinnovacotiastore.com 324 Main Street

Cross the street

People’s Place Library – The opening is scheduled for May 24.  Art is an important and integral part of the new library complex.  Fourteen public art pieces will be permanently located in both the interior and exterior spaces of the new library. These include paintings, murals, textiles, sculptures, and more by local artists and artisans. In addition space for changing exhibits are featured in the foyer.  Artists and Artisans selected for the People’s Place Project 283 Main St. www.peoplesplace.ca See Article in The Casket on opening

On the corner of Main and College Street

Bergengren - Frieze by Fenn Martin

Bergengren - Frieze by Fenn Martin

Bergengren Credit Union –   Frieze by Fenn Martin “The Gift”  Read the story of the work which celebrates the journey of the Bergengren through 75 years.  257 Main St.

 

 

Just off Main Street  on College Street across from the old Town Hall

Alcove Restaurant

Alcove Restaurant - Julia Redgrave Exhibit

Alcove Restaurant – The current art exhibit is works by Julia Redgraves.  Enjoy an international quality lunch or dinner in a cozy atmosphere www.alcovebistro.ca 76 College Street

 

 

Continue on Main Street

Down to Earth Art Gallery and Fine Framing – Visit the gallery of J. Franklin Wright, A native of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia with beautiful marine paintings and limited edition prints.  Art by Maureen St. Clair, Alan Syliboy, April Burns, prints and photographs by local artists and photographers. http://www.downtoearth.ca 240 Main St.

Lyghtesome Gallery

Lyghtesome Gallery – This gallery has been a mainstay of culture in Antigonish since 1975. Promoting  artists from Antigonish and across the Atlantic region.  The May feature is the “Retrospective”  exhibit of Julia Redgraves coinciding with the St. F.X. University Gallery exhibition.   The gallery has a fine selection of original paintings, sculpture, prints, cards and works of art. www.lyghtesome.ns.ca 166 Main St.

Continue to the East end of Main Street, pass Columbus Field, where the yearly Highland Games are held in July.  On the corner of St. Andrew’s Street.

Prissy Pig - Antigonish Photographers Exhibit

Prissy Pig - Antigonish Photographers Exhibit

Prissy Pig Café and Deli – Antigonish Photographers Exhibit till June 30. Photographs in wide variety of styles and themes on exhibit by:  Jeffrey Parker, Peter Jowett, Betty Cameron, Stan Mizgala, Danny Polson, Jennifer Polson, Anne Louise MacDonald, F.X MacDonald, Bernice MacDonald and Denise Davies.  Have lunch or a brunch from this great local food restaurant.  Antigonish Photographers Exhibit

Side trip to the St FX Campus.  Walk or drive up College Street from Main Street, turn right on St. Ninian’s Street and turn left up Notre Dame – just before the St. Ninian’s Cathedral.  Continue up over the top of the hill to the Bloomfield Centre the last building on your right. Student Union Building.

St FX Art Gallery - Julia Redgrave

St FX Art Gallery - Julia Redgrave

St FX Gallery – The current exhibit is by Julia Redgrave “Life at the Edge” – a series of eighteen large paintings moving through the seasons and each featuring a letter and theme of Life on the Edge. The colours and style are gripping and there is also on display smaller print reproductions.

Upcoming Art Events 2011

Antigonish Culture Alive newsletter – For artists and those interested in the arts this is a “must have” e-newsletter and quarterly print newsletter.  Whether you are local or visiting –  sign up to get the newsletter for a nominal fee to find out upcoming events to help you plan your calendar.  http://www.antigonishculturealive.ca/

X Ring Featured at Cameron’s Jewellery

 

 

Do You Have an X Ring?  Chances are you have been into Cameron’s Jewellery on Main Street, Antigonish.

Camerons_Jewellery_X_Feature

The "X" featured in Floor Inlay and Chandelier

Cameron’s on Main St. Antigonish has undergone a transformation and their new look is bright and inviting.  With the interior design of Andrew Murray of Antigonish the store has a new look that celebrates the traditions of the past but adds the sparkle and modern décor of the present.

The center piece that features its “X” connection is a large black marble “X” inlay in the center of the floor area with an inlay of “1922” when the store was first opened.   Above it is a chandelier with the “X” and crystal pendants.

The X Ring dates back to 1942.  Working with the engineering class of St. Francis Xavier University, Cameron’s Jewellery designed the present X-Rings, a gold ring featuring a black enamel X within a raised gold square, with the date of graduation flanking the X on its shoulders.

The wooden oak cabinets running along the wall are the original oak cabinets with

Cameron's 90 Year Old Oak Wood Cabinets

Cameron's 90 Year Old Oak Wood Cabinets

design that highlights the oak grain.  The cabinets are 90 years old and have been refurbished by CACL to bring out the beauty of the wood.

The large fireplace on the opposing wall gives a comfortable feel to the shopping experience and highlights art work on the feature wall.   According to Donna MacPherson, the store manager “We had incredible craftsmen for the stonework, woodwork, electrical and fittings” in making over the store look.  On our buying trip we looked for new items that were not currently available in Antigonish.

Cameron’s is a great place to shop for gifts, home decorating items, dishes and jewellery.  The tasteful selection of items and the welcoming staff make this a great Main Street destination.

Browse the slide show using the arrow keys and click on the “Caption” button on the right to view the captions.

[slideshow]

In the early evening the lighting on the displays adds a sparkle to Main Street.  Be sure to stop in for a visit to see this new gem on Main Street.

Antigonish Photographers Exhibit

 

 

Antigonish Photographers Exhibit

Antigonish Photographers Exhibit

Antigonish has always been known for its thriving art community.  Now photographers in Antigonish have formed a group called “Antigonish Photographers Exhibit (APx)” which will have their first exhibition beginning April 16 at the Prissy Pig Café and Deli.

The formation of the group is the brainchild of Jeff Parker, owner of Lyghtesome Gallery.  According to Jeff  “Over the years the gallery (Lyghtesome) has been called upon to exhibit photography.  I am a photographer myself and  I am often approached by photographers to exhibit their work.  But we don’t show much photography in our gallery and many photographers have been disappointed. “

“When a request was presented to us by the management of the Prissy Pig to assist them in establishing an exhibition schedule, ‘local photographers’ is what first came to mind.   The Café and Deli has excellent gallery space and according to the General Manager of the Prissy Pig,  “We want to support and promote the local arts scene, local photographers and musicians. “

Jeffrey explained   “I put together a list of photographers that I knew of and then expanded that with the help of Steven Jewkes of the Photo Shop at the Antigonish 5 to $1 and called a meeting to plan a group photo exhibition.    In our initial meeting we decided that we would put up a group show.  Each of us has our own styles and interests and it will be very interesting to see the range in a show of this type.  We haven’t set out any specific themes and the individual works will be selected by the photographers themselves.   This first show will feature 10 photographers and the works will be on sale. “

The Antigonish Photographers Exhibit (APx) will hold its first exhibition opening with a reception on April 16th at the Prissy Pig Café and Deli.  The opening reception will be 7PM to 9PM and refreshments will be served.  We hope that everyone will stop in to view the exhibit and chat with the photographers.   Everyone is welcome.

Photographs will be on exhibit by – Jeffrey Parker, Peter Jowett, Betty Cameron, Stan Mizgala, Danny Polson, Jennifer Polson, Anne Louise MacDonald, F.X MacDonald, Bernice MacDonald and Denise Davies.   The group members are excited at the opportunity and have been appreciating the synergies in the group. Our hopes are that the group will expand and perhaps offer presentation and information nights to assist in technical training and upgrading in this continually changing field. To enjoy and learn from each others expert knowledge is one of our emerging interests in continuing the pursuit and recognition of photography as our contemporary art form.

We would like to thank our sponsors who have supported the group – Jeffrey Parker of Lyghtesome Gallery, Steven Jewkes of Antigonish 5 Cents-$1.00, and Danny Polson of Polson Design Studio and to The Prissy Pig Café’ and Deli for providing the exhibition space and facilities.

A few photos from the APx photographers.  Click on the Arrow key to view the photos.  Click on the “Captions” on the right side to view the photographer name and photo title.

[slideshow]


APx Premier Exhibition and Sale

Group of 10 Prominent Antigonish Photographers
At the Prissy Pig 20 St. Andrews St. (corner of Main St) Antigonish
April 16 – June 30th, 2011
Reception April 16th 7-9 p.m..
Refreshments will be served, All are Welcome

  • Download poster –

  • APx Poster

    APx Poster

 

 

 

 

The Prissy Pig Café and Deli

 

 

For a tasty meal in attractive surroundings and enjoy local produce – head to the Prissy Pig Café and Deli on St. Andrew’s Street  at the corner of Main Street, Antigonish.

The Prissy Pig Cafe' and Deli

The Prissy Pig Cafe' and Deli

According to the General Manager, “The restaurant has evolved over the past eight months in response to the market.    The Prissy Pig was started and is owned by a number of local farmers in the area who are shareholders.   We attempt to use local products in a 100 mile radius from Antigonish.  We believe in sustainable development and the importance of using and supporting local producers. “

“Breakfast is a popular meal here for a healthy start to the day and a great value.

Prissy Pig Daily Menu Specials

Prissy Pig Daily Menu Specials

Lunch and brunch is also busy with different menu items featured daily depending on the chef and local produce.   We always have vegetarian selections and if you don’t see a vegan option ask the chef to produce something fresh.”   On Sunday we often have live music from a local musician.

I really enjoyed the “Pulled Pork” sandwich – a very generous serving with delicious and tender meat.  The

Prissy Pig Deli

Prissy Pig Deli

apple cider glazed meatballs were a delicious evening selection.   The paté from the deli was a great treat.   The chef, Mary Gillis leads the staff in preparation of new recipes for sandwiches, wraps, soups, pasta bar, hickory ribs and luscious desserts.   The home-cooked meals are tasty and there is an attractive selection from the salad and pasta bar.

The décor is bright and cheery with windows on three sides and bright designs on the walls which feature an art gallery with rotating exhibitions planned.

Enjoying a coffee with friends

Enjoying a coffee with friends

The plush leather chairs and coffee tables in the corners give a relaxed and welcoming place to sit with your friends for a cup of coffee or a snack.  Several of the diners remarked that they come in often and enjoy meeting friends in the friendly atmosphere.

Comfortable homey setting

Comfortable homey setting

The management is concerned with being environmentally conscious and in fair trade. The Prissy Pig Café & Deli serves “Just Us” Coffee and organic teas. Management is constantly looking for ways to lessen environmental impact, from being energy efficient, to using packaging and containers that have a lesser impact on the environment.

Future plans include landscaping, improvements to the façade, opening for dinner (evenings) and a license for beer and wine.

Local suppliers of baked goods, deserts, farm produce and other local products are encouraged to contact management for possible collaboration.  Local musicians and artists are also welcome.

Prissy Pig Cafe' and Deli

Prissy Pig Cafe' and Deli

The Prissy Pig caters to events and parties.  They supply everything including pickup and delivery for catered events to make your life easy.   Or you can host your business party or meeting on location in their lounge style setting.

The deli / retail area features Tony’s meats with a delicious selection of sausages, pate’, ham  and sliced meats; local cheese from Knoydart Farms; Haveracres Maple Syrup and Lo Dolce Terra Honey.

For a tasty meal in attractive surroundings and to support local farmers – head to the Prissy Pig on Main Street Antigonish.  This is a great new addition in town.  Be sure to drop in.   Students with ID get a discount.   20 St. Andrews Street, Antingonish, NS B2G 2H1.  Hours Monday to Saturday 7AM to 7 PM. Sunday 7AM to 4PM.

Check out their Facebook Group for daily specials:  http://www.facebook.com/#!/group.php?gid=128315050521433

I Love the Library

I must confess that I actually AM a librarian by profession but it has been many years since I have worked in a library or had much to do with libraries in the past 15 years or so.

Pictou Antigonish Regional Library - Online

Pictou Antigonish Regional Library - Online

Now I am newly in love with libraries having registered and got my library card at the Antigonish Regional Library.  I am just thrilled with the range of materials even though the current library has a very tiny collection of books.  The selection is well thought out and given the restricted space has some wonderful finds.

Since it is part of the Nova Scotia system – you have access to a much largerpool of books that are brought in on request from other libraries in the province.  Now also you can go online and browse, renew your books and look for reviews and descriptions and do searches.

You can even borrow magazines – which will saveyou a PILE of money instead

Pictou Antigonish Regional Library Features

Pictou Antigonish Regional Library Features

of purchasing them.   Crafters, nature lovers, news hounds, cooks and teens will all find something to interest them.  Login using your library card and browse through online magazine articles using specific search terms.  This is a terrific resource when researching a topic or looking for more information on your area of interest.

Antigonish Town Hall Main Street

The Library is behind the Antigonish Town Hall Main Street

The current Antigonish Library is a tiny 2 room location just behind the Old Town Hall.  In a couple of months they will be moving into the new “People’s Place” on Main Street which will house not only the library but also community rooms, meeting places, art exhibits and much more.  Everyone is looking forward to the new location and facilities.  The community has been very supportive in the “Adopt a Book” for the new collection with over 1000 items being purchased for the new library location.

Antigonish Library

Antigonish Library

I recently attended an evening meeting that reviewed different eBook readers and a demonstration of how to download eBooks and Audio Books from the library to your reader or computer.  There is a growing collection of materials online available for this popular new format.

The library caters to different interest groups and has activities for seniors, teens, young children, business and naturalists.  Check out the online site for details.

Having recently downsized into a smaller apartment but loving to read the library is a great way to read and browse books without having to wonder where to store them.

If you live in or near Antigonish be sure to drop in – otherwise check in your own area to visit your local library.   Libraries have continued to grow in the services they offer to the community. And the price is right !

For the traveler the library can be a great place to check out local information, what’s happening in the area, and to access the Internet while you are traveling.

Treasure Trove of Local Artisans

Walk in to this tiny shop on Main Street of Antigonish and you are in the midst of a treasure trove of locally made items that engage all your senses.

The Made in Nova Scotia Store is not your normal tourist shop.  Everything here is hand made by known crafts men and women, artisans, cooks and artists.

Maple Products, Jams and Jellies

Maple Products, Jams and Jellies

Taste the jams and jellies with the flavors of Nova Scotia.  Enjoy the colors and feel of locally grown wool, hand knitted and woven shawls, mitts and sweaters.  Explore the exotic hand crafted candles and soaps with scents of lavender, pine, and unscented if that is your preference.  Marvel at the jewelry designed with local stones and beach glass with intricate designs in silver.   The choices go on and on – Mi’kmaq porcupine quill ear rings, leather moccasins; framed photos and gift cards; hand made quilts, beach stone lamps, wooden frames made from old barn wood.  Every corner has unique and local items.   You can find body products, blue berries, carved wooden salad servers made from Bird’s Eye Maple and even enjoy home made baked goods or buy free range eggs.

Anna DeCoste, the owner of The Made in Nova Scotia Store says “I had

Anna DaCoste, owner The Made in Nova Scotia Store

Anna DaCoste, owner The Made in Nova Scotia Store

been doing crafts for years and really just wanted a place to display my own things.  I have a lot of contacts with arts people in the area and the idea just snowballed in a very short time to setup the shop”.

Visitors to the shop are primarily tourists and visitors to Antigonish who are looking for gifts or mementos.  They comment that they are so pleased to find a store where they can buy everything local and to easily find such a variety in one location. Everything is made locally and you can learn about the person who made it. There are author bio cards and Anna knows the artisans personally and can give details about who they are and their backgrounds.  This is so different from the regular “tourist shop” where items might come from China.   Everything is made locally by a known artisan.   Local people come in to browse and bring in their visitors as a convenient location to find a wide variety of gifts.

[slideshow]

The Made in Nova Scotia Store is located on the ground floor of a handsome clapboard house that was built in 1857 by Alexander MacDonald, “Sandy the Carpenter” and was originally owned by Master Mariner and Ship Owner, Captain Dan MacDonald who lived here with his household of 13 people.  It is one of the charming buildings on Main Street that gives an old world charm to the town.

The store is a boon to the artisans of the Antigonish and surrounding areas.  This one-stop outlet gives crafts people a wonderful place to display their works all year round.

Winter shot of The Made in Nova Scotia Store

Winter shot of The Made in Nova Scotia Store

How to find it: The Made in Nova Scotia Store, 324 Main St. Antigonish NS, Canada (across from Shoppers Drug Mart).  Browse the website for products and shipping information. 

 

 

Links for more information

  • www.themadeinnovascotiastore.com
  • Click to read more about the HISTORY of the building
  • Nova Scotia – Book by David Orkin. Nova Scotia tells visitors where to eat the best smoked fish, find the most stunning beaches and pick the plumpest wild blueberries. Delving deeper than any other guide, it reveals the best of the province both on and off the beaten track.

Article and photos (c) Denise Davies.  For information on republishing please fill contact davies@eckova.com .