Summary:

The federal electoral district of Sackville—Preston—Chezzetcook is located in the province of Nova Scotia in Canada. It covers a geographically diverse area that includes suburbs, rural communities, and oceanfront villages. This area is home to a vibrant and diverse community that is steeped in history and culture. The district has its fair share of economic challenges but has a strong and growing economy, thanks to its thriving industries.

Population centres:

The district of Sackville—Preston—Chezzetcook is made up of several population centres, each with its unique characteristics. Some of the significant cities and towns in the area include:

• Sackville: The largest community in the district, Sackville is a growing suburban area with several commercial and retail centers. It is known for its lively community events, including the Sackville Business Association's annual Christmas parade.

• Preston: An historically African-Nova Scotian community, Preston is a tight-knit town that prides itself on its cultural roots. Its vibrant art and music scene is a reflection of the community's cultural diversity.

• Porters Lake: An oceanfront village, Porters Lake is a popular destination for summer tourists. Its pristine beaches and opportunities for recreational boating make it a hub for water-based activities.

Issues and events:

In recent years, the district of Sackville—Preston—Chezzetcook has seen several key events and issues come to the forefront of the local news, including:

• Flooding in 2019: In October of 2019, Hurricane Dorian hit Nova Scotia, resulting in severe flooding in several areas of the district. Local organizations, including the Halifax Regional Municipality, stepped up to assist affected residents with recovery efforts.

• The COVID-19 pandemic: The pandemic has had a significant impact on the district's economy and social fabric. Local businesses have had to adapt to changing health guidelines, and events have been canceled or postponed to prevent the spread of the virus.

Economy:

The district of Sackville—Preston—Chezzetcook is home to several industries and major employers, including:

• The fishing industry: The district's location on the Atlantic coast makes it a hub for the commercial fishing industry. The area's seafood, particularly lobster, is in high demand both locally and internationally.

• The retail sector: The growth of suburban areas such as Sackville has led to the expansion of the district's retail sector. Local malls and shopping centers provide residents with convenient access to retail goods and services.

• The hospitality industry: The district's oceanfront villages, such as Porters Lake, attract tourists during the summer months. The local hospitality industry provides accommodations and services to visitors and is a significant contributor to the area's economy.

Important landmarks:

The district of Sackville—Preston—Chezzetcook is home to several important landmarks and attractions, including:

• Lawlor Island Provincial Park: Located close to the town of Chezzetcook, Lawlor Island Provincial Park is a popular spot for outdoor recreation, including hiking and kayaking.

• Ross Road Schoolhouse: A historic schoolhouse from the 1800s, the Ross Road Schoolhouse serves as a museum for the area's history and culture.

• Shearwater Aviation Museum: Located in Shearwater, the Shearwater Aviation Museum is home to several historic aircraft, including a replica of the Silver Dart, the first aircraft flown in Canada.

Arts and culture:

The district of Sackville—Preston—Chezzetcook has a rich history and vibrant arts scene. Some of the notable cultural events and institutions in the area include:

• The Maritime Fiddle Festival: A celebration of traditional fiddle music, the Maritime Fiddle Festival takes place annually in the community of Preston.

• The Sackville Snow Days: An annual winter festival, Snow Days features a range of outdoor activities, including ice skating, snowshoeing, and a snowman-building competition.

• The Black Cultural Centre for Nova Scotia: Located in Cherry Brook, the Black Cultural Centre is a museum and cultural hub dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history and culture of African Nova Scotians.

Electoral issues:

During the 2021 federal election, some of the key economic and social issues that arose in the district of Sackville—Preston—Chezzetcook included:

• Economic development: Many residents in the area are calling for increased economic development initiatives to create more jobs and stimulate growth in the district.

• Infrastructure: Some residents are pushing for increased funding to upgrade and maintain the district's aging infrastructure, including roads and bridges.

Community organizations:

The district of Sackville—Preston—Chezzetcook is home to several active community organizations, including:

• The Preston Area Community Advancement Society: A non-profit organization dedicated to promoting economic development and community building in the area of Preston.

• The Sackville Business Association: An organization that promotes and supports local businesses and economic development in the area of Sackville.

• The Porters Lake Community Centre: A community center that hosts a variety of events and activities for residents of all ages.

Multicultural groups:

The district of Sackville—Preston—Chezzetcook has a diverse population, and several multicultural groups play an essential role in promoting cultural diversity and understanding, including:

• The African Nova Scotian Affairs Integration Office: A government organization that provides support and services to African Nova Scotians in the district and throughout the province.

• The Multicultural Association of Nova Scotia: An organization that promotes and celebrates cultural diversity across the province of Nova Scotia. They offer resources and programs to support newcomers to the area.

In summary, the district of Sackville—Preston—Chezzetcook is a diverse and dynamic community that is home to several industries, historical landmarks, and cultural institutions. While the area faces some economic and social challenges, it has a thriving arts and culture scene and many active community organizations seeking to promote growth and development in the region.