Community Post - ECRL - Mobile Hot Spot

ECRL is now loaning WiFi HotSpots. These mobile devices provide free unlimited internet access to the borrower. HotSpots can be borrowed by ECRL users 18 years and older and have a loan period of 4 weeks. To borrow a WiFi HotSpot, place a hold on the item in our online catalogue or call your local library branch (find contact information here) and library staff will be happy to place the request for you.
The device will only work where there is Bell Mobility coverage in Canada. There needs to be Bell cellular reception in order for the device to operate. This also means that they will not work outside of Canada. Any roaming services are blocked. 
Please note that if devices are not returned, the connection will be shut off and the borrower will be charged a replacement fee.
This exciting new loan program is in collaboration with @NS Community Technology.
To learn more click the link below: 
https://ecrl.ca/news/wifi-hotspots-now-available-to-borrow/

@NS Partners with Nova Scotia Libraries to Relaunch Hotspot Lending Program

@NS and its partners are pleased to announce the relaunch of a program that allows library patrons in several parts of the province to borrow and use mobile wireless hotspots at their homes.
The initial pilot project, launched in 2023, was put on hold after one year while a new data provider was found. We are very pleased to announce we have an agreement with Nova Scotia-based company D3 Tech, and hotspots are available at libraries to borrow for a set period.
“While the data isn’t unlimited, we’re confident the 40+ GBs available monthly will be sufficient for most needs. The hotspots will work anywhere in Nova Scotia where a cellular signal is available. Up to 20 Wi-Fi capable devices can be connected simultaneously, including laptops, tablets, smartphones, eReaders, and more,” said Tim Tucker, Executive Director of @NS.
These hotspots, which are all JEXtream RG2100N and offer 5G/LTE connectivity with blazing-fast speeds, can be borrowed from libraries throughout the province outside of the HRM, where similar programs already exist. This includes facilities operated by the Annapolis Valley Regional Library, Colchester-East Hants Public Library, Cape Breton Regional Library, Cumberland Public Library, Eastern Counties Regional Library, Pictou-Antigonish Regional Library, South Shore Public Library, and Western Counties Regional Library.
“In all, a total of 115 devices will be distributed to lending points throughout Nova Scotia, providing an option to many who cannot access the internet due to geographical and/or financial constraints. A digital divide still exists in this province, and we hope this helps bridge the gap,” said Tucker.
More information on borrowing a hotspot can be accessed by contacting your local library branch. This project is made possible through federal and provincial grants.

Community Post: Culture Club Sherbrooke

Culture Club Sherbrooke Presents: “Heidi Holloway”
Friday June 6th from 7:00pm to 9:00pm
Location: 17 Main Street, Sherbrooke, Nova Scotia, B0J 3C0
Phone: 902-318-1699
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Website: www.cultureclubsherbrooke.com 
Admission free – Donations welcome!
Heidi Holloway, born and raised in the Maritime Provinces of Canada, grew up with Nova Scotia’s rugged coastline as her playground and the wilds of nature as her playmate. These experiences along with her nature-bound spirit deeply influence her art.
Heidi Holloway is an artist through inspiration, self-teaching, and mentorship. Specializing in painting while exploring sculpting and craving. Heidi is best recognized for her vivid and detailed portrayals of birds. Throughout her life experiences and artistic journey, she has found profound inspiration in the bird kingdom.
This show will be an exhibition of the completed artworks from the Port Bickerton Lighthouse Association Artist Residency Program and Heidi's well-known bird series. Percentage of Proceeds going to Port Bickerton Lighthouse Association.

COTW - June 4th, 2025

NOTICE

MEETING:               St Mary’s Municipal Council

                                  Committee of the Whole

DATE:                       Wednesday, June 4^th, 2025

TIME:                       6:00pm

PLACE:                     St. Mary’s Municipality

                                  Council Chambers, Sherbrooke, NS

1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Additions to the Agenda
4. Approval of the Agenda
5. Approval of Minutes: COTW held May 21^st, 2025
6. Business Arising from Minutes
7. Correspondence: N/A

8. Presentation: Trevor MacIsaac, Principal of St. Mary’s ECA
9. Other Matters of Business: N/A
10. In-Camera: Contract Negotiations

Adjournment

Community Post: Whale Sanctuary Project: Ocean Day

Community Post: The Whale Sanctuary Project

Ocean Day!

Saturday May 31 at 6:00pm at the Whale Sanctuary Visitor Centre, 8186 Hwy 7, Sherbrooke NS
Special Guest Speaker Jeff Foster, Animal Rehab and Transfer Coordinator

Sunday June 1 at 1:00pm - 4:00pm at the Whale Sanctuary Visitor Centre, 8186 Hwy 7, Sherbrooke NS

These events are a free community event and co-hosted by the Whale Sanctuary Project and the Municipality of the District of St. Mary's.

Housing Press Release

The Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s has entered into an agreement to purchase property in Sherbrooke to advance their goal of increasing housing availability. This property is located at the intersection of Highway 7 and Sonora Road.
“We are excited to have obtained this property,” stated Warden James Fuller. “We anticipate adding six to eight housing units with an eye towards affordability and accessibility.”
The property, location of the former House of Jade restaurant, offers easy access to shops and restaurants located in Sherbrooke.
“As part of this project, the municipality will be seeking developers who will share our vision of providing housing units that are custom designed for seniors, singles, and young families,” Fuller continued.
The municipality will soon be issuing an RFP (Request for proposals) to engage developers who are interested in constructing new housing units on the property. The Municipality urges developers who may be interested to watch for our RFP and the incentives the municipality will have to offer.
The municipality is actively working to enhance our appeal to housing developers with the help of ZZAP Architecture and Planning of Dartmouth. ZZAP, who the municipality has worked closely with in developing a concept for a larger project on Old Road Hill in Sherbrooke, is an expert in housing development and has extensive experience in understand the needs of housing developers.
“As the municipality has recently been granted over $62,000 in funding earmarked to support development of non-profit housing via direct contributions to eligible developers, our focus will be to provide much needed housing in this underserved market.” Fuller added. The funding was made available through Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s Housing Accelerator Fund.  
To view the Municipality of the District of St. Mary's Housing Press Release click the link below:
  pdf MODSM Housing Press Release (192 KB)

St. Mary’s Tourism Website

Your Backyard Just Got Bigger!
The Municipality is excited to launch our brand new St. Mary’s Tourism Website! Whether you're planning your next adventure or looking for a hidden gem right here at home, we've got everything you need to explore the best of our beautiful municipality.
-Where to stay
-Where to eat
-Things to do
-How to get here
Visit www.saintmarysnovascotia.ca or scan the QR code to start exploring today!