Aithisg Bhliadnhal|Annual Report 2014/15 · Animator/Farmer Sandy MacNeil Visitor Centre Clerks Sadie MacDonald, & Marlene MacDougall ... and acknowledgement is due for the hard work

Aithisg Bhliadnhal|Annual Report 2014/15

Comunn Baile Ghàidheal nan h-Albann Nuaidh | Nova Scotia Highland Village Society

Our Vision, Mission & Proclamation

The Nova Scotia Highland Village Society was incorporated on November 3, 1959, under the Societies Act of the Province of Nova Scotia, with the purpose of constructing and operating a replica pioneer village at Iona, as well as preserving and promoting Nova Scotia’s Highland Scottish Gaelic culture. In 1962, the Society held the first Highland Village Day Concert to raise money for the construction and operation of the Highland Village. Over the subsequent four decades the site took shape. In June of 2000, Baile nan Gàidheal | Highland Village* become a part of the Nova Scotia Museum Family. The Society operates the Village on behalf of the Province. The operation consists of a 43-acre museum and cultural complex including the Highland Village Living History Museum and Gaelic Folklife Centre, Roots Cape Breton Genealogy & Family History Centre, Highland Village Gift Shop, and an outdoor entertainment/theatre facility. The Society is a registered charity.

This vision of the Baile nan Gàidheal | Highland Village* is to be internationally acknowledged for advancing research, fostering appreciation, learning and sharing authentic Gaelic language and heritage while serving a vibrant Gaelic cultural community (i.e. a Gaelic institution).

The mission of the Baile nan Gàidheal | Highland Village*, a living history museum, is to research, collect, preserve and share the Gaelic heritage and culture of Nova Scotia inclusive of Gaelic folklife from settlement to present, including, but not limited to, language, cultural expressions, lifestyles, crafts, customs, and represent it accurately and vibrantly.

Proclamation between the Department of Tourism & Culture** of the Province of Nova Scotia and the Nova Scotia Highland Village Society Iona, Cape Breton Island on the occasion of an event to celebrate Baile nan Gàidheal | Highland Village* as a new member of the Nova Scotia Museum family:

Whereas, Nova Scotians believe the history, culture, language and traditions of the Scots-Gaelic people are a valuable and living part of the Nova Scotian story; and, these people have contributed greatly to the formation of our Nova Scotian identity; and,

Whereas, after due consultation, the people of Cape Breton and its heritage community have indicated their desire to see Cape Breton Island heritage further represented in the Department of Tourism & Culture** provincial museum system; and,

Whereas, the Board of Governors of the Nova Scotia Museum has recommended that Nova Scotia Highland Village become a part of the Nova Scotia Museum family and the Province of Nova Scotia has accepted this recommendation;

Therefore, we, the undersigned, duly pledge to continue to work toward the creation of an understanding of the story of the Scots-Gaelic people through our museum. We promise to continue to preserve and present the Gaelic language and culture for the benefit of all Nova Scotians and visitors. We agree to strive to inspire the people of our province to Know, value, and maintain this important part of Nova Scotia’s past, present and future: the culture, traditions, and language of the Scottish Gaels.

Signed this day at Iona, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia Saturday, June 17th, 2000

* Baile nan Gàidheal | Highland Village, formerly Highland Village Museum/An Clachan Gàidhealach, is a part of of the Nova Scotia Museum family, operated in partnership with the Nova Scotia Highland Village Society. The new name/branding was adopted in early 2015.

** Now the Department of Communities, Culture & Heritage.

Comunn Baile Ghàidheal nan h-Albann Nuaidh | Nova Scotia Highland Village Society 4119 Rathad 223, Rubha Eachainn, Alba Nuadh, B2C 1A3 | 4119 Highway 223, Iona, NS, B2C 1A3

(902) 725-2272 1-866-442-3542 www.highlandvillage.ca

http://www.highlandvillage.ca



NSHVS Board of Trustees 2014/15 Susan Cameron, Antigonish (President)

Catherine Ann Fuller, Baddeck (VP)

Betty Lord, Howie Centre (Treasurer)

Paul Wukitsch, Shunacadie (Secretary)

Eleanor Anderson, Sydney

John Hugh Edwards, Ross Ferry

Charlene Ellis, Little Narrows

Angie Farrell, Christmas Island

Dr. Michael Linkletter, Antigonish

Pam MacGillivray, Shunacadie

Hector (Frankie) MacNeil, Iona

Meaghan O’Handley, Grand Narrows

M.A. (Murdock) MacPherson, Creignish

Melissa Nicholson, Baddeck

Susan Samways, Sydney Mines

Daniel Chiasson (Legal Advisor Pro-Bono - Ex-officio)

NSHVS Staff 2014/15 Director Rodney Chaisson

Manager of Interpretation Jim Watson

Mgr. of Collections/Genealogy Pauline MacLean

Manager of Operations Neil J. MacNeil

Learning & Media Specialist Katherine MacLeod

Senior Animator/Costume Coord Debi MacNeil

Administrative Assistant Janet MacNeil

Marketing & Sales Coord. Max MacDonald

Animators Colleen Beaton, Pauline Campbell,

Marie Chehy, Catherine Gillis,

Emily MacDonald, Aileen MacLean,

Beth MacNeil, Jean MacNeil,

Kaye Anne MacNeil, Sharon MacNeil,

Matthew Moore, Colin Watson &

Phyllis Williams

Animator/Gaelic Language Mentor Mary Jane Lamond

Animator/Textile Consultant Vicki Quimby

Animator/Blacksmith Jamie Kennedy & Hoss MacKenzie

Animator/Farmer Sandy MacNeil

Visitor Centre Clerks Sadie MacDonald, & Marlene

MacDougall

Maintenance worker Tim MacNeil

Groundskeeper David MacKenzie

Custodian Patricia GaudleyHelper Jim Bryden

Luchd- Céilidh Shay MacMullin, Amber Buchanan,

Carmen MacArthur & Joanne MacIntyre

Farm Renewal Coordinator Emily Clegg (Term 2014)

Business Development Intern Katie MacDonald (Term 2014/15)

Students 2014 Marc Campbell, Courtney MacDonald,

Dryden MacNeil, Jamie MacNeil, Mary

Emma MacNeil

Committees & Volunteer Programmers Stòras na h-Òigridh/Treasurers Margie Beaton, Pam MacGillivrary,

of Youth Committee David MacLean, Susan MacLean,

Vince MacLean, Lisa MacNeil-Gallant &

Meaghan O’Handley

Volunteer Programers Quentin MacDonald & Mary Emma

MacNeil, HV Day Producers

Aithisg Bhliadhnal | Annual Report 2014-15 !3


Tapadh leibh-se gu mór The Nova Scotia Highland Village Society acknowledges the partnership and support of all there levels of government towards the operation of the Baile nan Gàidheal | Highland Village:

Province of Nova Scotia Baile nan Gàidheal | Highland Village is a part of the Nova Scotia Museum Family of Provincial Museums (Dept. of Communities, Culture & Heritage, Hon. Tony Ince, Minister) operated in partnership by the NS

Highland Village Society. The Society is grateful for the support, both financial and in-kind, provided by the department. The Society acknowledges the support from other Nova Scotia Government departments & agencies including: Internal Services (Hon. Labi Kousoulis, Minister); Gaelic Affairs (Hon. Randy Delorey, Minister); and Labour and Advanced Education (Hon. Kelly Regan, Minister).

Government of Canada The Society appreciates the support of the Government of Canada through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and Service Canada.

Municipality of Victoria County The Society thanks the Municipality of Victoria County for its support through the Recreation & Tourism Dept. and Paul MacNeil, Councillor District 1.

Project Partners Other project partners include: NSCAD University, St. Francis Xavier University, Cape Breton University, Celtic Heart of North America Cooperative, Eskasoni First Nation, Sgoil Mhic Fhraing a’ Chaolais/Rankin School of the Narrows, Celtic Colours, Destination Cape Breton, Iona Heights Inn, Cabot Trail Motel, Silver Dart Lodge, Castle Moffett, and Cape Breton B&Bs.

Our Affiliations The Society is a member of the National Trust of Scotland, CLI Gàidhlig, Gaelic Society of Inverness (Scotland), Association of Nova Scotia Museums (ANSM), Canadian Museums Assoc. (CMA), Heritage Cape Breton Connection Cooperative, Council of Nova Scotia Archives (CNSA), Genealogical Assoc. of Nova Scotia (GANS), Cape Breton Genealogy & Historical Society, Interpretation Canada, Assoc. of Living Historical Farms and Agricultural Museums (ALHFAM), Tourism Industry Assoc. of Nova Scotia (TIANS), Baddeck & Area Business Tourism Assoc. (BABTA), Sydney & Area Chamber of Commerce, the Strait Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Cape Breton Partnership.



President’s Report - Susan Cameron Fàilte Oiribh Uile, ‘s taing airson tighinn. Welcome to the 2014-2015 Annual

General Meeting of the Nova Scotia Highland Village Society. Thank you all

for attending. It is important to the organization to have its members en-

gaged in our work.

As a sign of respect and acknowledgment, the following individuals whom

had connections with our organization and have since passed away, will be

named: Malcolm “Maxie” Dan Angus MacNeil - well known Gaelic singer,

former board member and longtime volunteer of the Highland Village; Ker-

rie MacKenzie, daughter of retired Gift Shop staffer Gerry MacNeil; Sadie

Mae MacInnis, grandmother of Administrative Assistant Janet MacNeil;

Frances “Rory Sis” MacDonald, well known fiddler, and grandfather of Ani-

mator Emily MacDonald; Mildred MacNeil, sister of Animator Pauline

Campbell; Florence MacNeil, wife of NSHVS Past President Walter MacNeil;

Nancy Linkletter, mother of board member Michael Linkletter; James Mac-

Queen, father of retiring board member Eleanor Anderson; and Rose Mac-

Neil, mother of NSHVS Past President Bruce MacNeil.

While I was reflecting on my time on the Board of this institution, I realized I

had arrived just prior to the 50th anniversary which celebrated and acknowl-

edged the dedication and spirit that built “the hill”. Now, as we continue

on to the next 50 years we are anticipating renewed growth and direction.

The rebranding of the Village to become Baile nan Gàidheal | Highland Vil-

lage, including its visual representation makes a nice symbolic start to the

next phase in the Museum’s history. The ongoing planning for expansion of

the facility to support new and continuing program directions bodes well for

the future. The tag line chosen “Made of Stories” acknowledges the essence

of the culture of the people it represents and continues to serve in many

ways.

Progress was made on the governance front with revisions to the By-laws

being presented tonight, as well as revisions to the committee structure,

reflecting input received during the past Governance Workshops.

Budget issues are always a concern, but good management has ensured

that we continue to operate within the allocated amounts and leverage ad-

ditional resources whenever possible. A fundraising venture, Chase the Ace

was supported by the Board, and acknowledgement is due for the hard

work that entailed by many on the Board. Special mention of Betty Lord,

organizer extraordinaire, is appropriate here.

The Stòras na h-Òigridh | Treasures of Youth Scholarships Endowment is well

established now with the Community Foundation of Nova Scotia. In 2014,

Jessie Helen MacNeil, Mabou was presented with the first $1,000 scholar-

ship under the program. In 2015, the income from our endowment will en-

able us to award two $1,000 scholarships, which will be announced in the

prior to Highland Village Day.


The staff continues to enhance the reputation of the Museum by presenting

at Conferences and attending professional development events. The tradi-

tion of garnering awards has continued as well with several awards earned

again this year including Destination Cape Breton’s 2015 product develop-

ment award. For the second year in a row, we have also received Trip Advi-

sor’s Certificate of Excellence. Giving back to the community also continues

with our community partners, through the Annual Appreciation Dinner event

for the Cape Breton Cancer Centre.

The specialized website, An Drochaid Eadarainn continues to be used and

the Steering Committee is active in overseeing its continued evolution. Our

social media presence is keeping pace, and is becoming more and more

important as print resources dwindle in influence.

There are three Board retirements to mention, myself, Eleanor Anderson and

Susan Samways. We are presenting new members tonight and I hope I am

not premature in welcoming them here, before the Nominating Committee

has an opportunity to present the slate - Vince MacLean, Damian MacInnis

and Quentin MacDonald.

As I turn over the reins to our incoming and extremely competent, President,

M.A. MacPherson, I wish to heartily thank the people I have worked with

over the past two years, as President, as well as all the past Board members,

with whom I served, prior to that, for all their cooperation and diligence.

I would now like to turn the meeting over to our director, Rodney Chaisson,

who will present his report for the year 2014-2015.

Respectfully submitted,

Susan Cameron, President

June 18, 2015


Top to bottom: (1) Jessie He-

len MacNeil receives the inau-

gural Stòras na h-Òigridh |

Treasures of Youth Scholarship;

(2) Emily Macdonald (left) and

Emily Clegg tend to a garden;

and (3) a scene from our popu-

lar Oidhche nam Bòcan / Hal-

loween program.

Director’s Report - Rodney Chaisson I am very pleased to present this annual report of the 2014/15 operations of

the Nova Scotia Highland Village Society to its membership and

stakeholders.

2014 Operational Highlights

The Highland Village remains focused on being a centre of excellence for

the transmission and experiential presentation of Gaelic Nova Scotia culture

and heritage. We strive to provide quality visitor experiences and leadership

in promoting linguistic and cultural renewal in our community. This work has

been recognised by our local cultural, heritage and tourism communities,

and by the international Gaelic community.

Throughout the 2014 visitor season, the Highland Village continued to

advance and evolve its interpretive programming, especially in terms of first

person (role playing) animation. We believe that this form of interpretation is

a much more effective way to tell our story, and provide insight into our

ancestors and the Gaelic way of life. First person also better enables visitors

to make emotional connections to our story, thus receiving a more rewarding

experience.

First person has been very well received by visitors who have provided

overwhelmingly positive feedback. Staff have noticed increased

engagement with visitors. We are well on our way to being a best practices

attraction in experiential interpretation and storytelling for a minority

language-based culture. We had the opportunity to showcase our

interpretive capacity at the Stone Soup Symposium, a province-wide two

day mini conference on theatre in museums, here at the Village in May.

This past spring our work has been recognized by Destination Cape Breton

and the travel review site TripAdvisor. DCB presented us with their 2015

Product Development Award, recognizing our work with first person

animation and experiential programming. This is our third DCB award in 4

years. In 2013, we were presented with their Visitor Servicing Award. In

2012, the Celtic Heart marketing partnership (of which we are a founding

partner) received the Marketing Award. Also, for the second year in a row

Trip Advisor has given us their Certificate of Excellence, which is based

solely on ratings and reviews from visitors.

We also continued to grow our innovative outreach to the Gaelic learners’

community through our annual Stòras a’ Bhaile program and the evolving An

Drochaid Eadarainn website which enables transmission of Gaelic culture


Our awards from Destination Cape Breton (left) and Trip Advisor.

Animators Phyllis Williams (left) and Catherine Gillis demonstrate

Highland Village 1st person at the Stone Soup Symposium.

through an on-line virtual céilidh. These initiatives allow us to make tangible

contributions to our cultural community.

Visitation this year was a bit of a mixed bag. Our overall site usage was

down slightly from 2013 (-0.8%). That included a 102.7% increase in school

programming, a 11.9% increase in rentals, a 2.4% decrease in off the road

(FIT) visitors, and a 2.4% decrease in cruise ship visitation. We saw further

increases in visits by Cape Bretoners and a slight increase in those from

mainland Nova Scotia. As these two categories have seen declines over the

past few years, we are hopeful that improved visitor engagement and a

more focused marketing message will see further increases in these

categories in the coming years. It is also important to note that in spite of

overall decrease in site usage, we did see a slight increase in earned income

as well as regain some market share from the cruise ships in 2014.

Volunteer engagement remains strong. In 2013, we saw a 106% increase in

our volunteer hours over 2012. This year we increased our volunteer

engagement by a further 4.4% to total of 1,997 volunteer hours. The vast

majority of those volunteer hours were for special events, in particular the

Oidhche nam Bòcan/Night of the Spooks Halloween program. Students

from Rankin School of the Narrows have been especially helpful with our

programs and events.

Engagement through social media, especially Facebook continued to grow

throughout 2014. We currently have 2,391 likes on Facebook and 1,161

followers on Twitter. Our posts are frequently shared by the Nova Scotia

Museum, Celtic Heart partnership, Destination Cape Breton, and The

Chronicle Herald. We have also opened an Instagram account and have

started a WordPress blog.


Top to bottom; (1) Highland Village staff and volunteers learn the traditional

Mi’kmaq game waltes from our friends at Eskasoni Cultural Journeys; (2)

Our contribution to the Scottish Diaspora Tapestry project thanks to Pauline

MacLean and Emily MacDonald; (3) Na Cleasaichean demonstrate a milling

frolic with our Làithean Sona living history children.

Highland Village 3.0

This organization has achieved much in the past year. Looking back to 1959,

the journey has been an incredible one. It is a story of pride in our culture,

perseverance of our people, and quest to continually grow and improve our

contribution to our community and our province.

In the next year, the Highland Village is embarking on an exciting new phase

in its history. We refer to it as Highland Village 3.0. Here is a quick recap of

the journey that has taken us to this stage:

• Embryonic Stage (1938-1959) - Angus L. MacDonald & the United

Empire Exhibition in Glasgow, Scotland; 1950’s presentation to Cabinet

from the NS Association of Scottish Societies; regional competition to

be the home of a “Highland Village”; determined group in Central

Cape Breton makes the case for Hector’s Point, focusing on the cultural

assets of the area; and a steadfast group of volunteers focused on

bringing the dream to reality.

• Highland Village 1.0 (1959-1999) - Incorporation of the Nova Scotia

Highland Village Society; perseverance of the community to build, grow

and operate the Highland Village as a community cultural, social and

economic asset; Highland Village Day Concert; outreach programming;

site renewal; quest to maintain and enhance museum standards; and

evolution of a community museum.

• Highland Village 2.0 (2000-2014) - A Part of the Nova Scotia Museum,

Provincial Museum Status; strategic planning; renewed linguistic and

cultural focus; 1st person animation; program growth; community

outreach and capacity building; Malagawatch Church; governance

renewal; branding & marketing; on-line exhibits/assets; and

partnerships.

So what is Highland Village 3.0? It is our path to 2020 and beyond. The goal

of Highland Village 3.0 is to be the premier venue for experiential

presentation and transmission of Nova Scotia Gaelic language, culture &

folklife.

How do we get there? We get there by addressing the five core areas that

speak to the long term sustainability of the operation: rebranding;

programming; site development; human resource; and earned income:

(I) Rebranding - introduce a new logo and rebrand the Village as a place that is “Made of Stories.”

This season we are introducing new branding for the Highland Village, which

was approved by the NSHVS Board of Trustees, the Nova Scotia Museum

and Communications Nova Scotia this past spring. The new branding,

designed by the Vibe Creative Group in Sydney, aims to provide a modern

look to our brand, with a focus on the oral traditions and intangible cultural

heritage of our Gaelic ancestors, and positions the Highland Village as a

place that is “made of stories.” Thus, the a’s in Gàidheal are stylized

quotation marks. The logo is also designed to relay the message that the

Highland Village is telling a Nova Scotia Gaelic story. As a result, the Gaelic

name for the site has changed from An Clachan Gàidhealach to Baile nan

Gàidheal, which literally translates to the Village of the Gaels. (Please note

that the branding change is for the Highland Village Museum only. We will


continue to use the Society crest where appropriate to represent the Nova

Scotia Highland Village Society.)

There are four versions of the new logo. The primary version will be used in

most applications. The long and rectangular versions will be used for

applications where the primary version is not practical, e.g. banners, or items

with height limitations. A fourth version has been developed specifically for

signage, to ensure that the English is legible for passing motorists. The

implementation of the new branding will be on-going throughout the

season. Our new branding certainly sets the stage for Highland Village 3.0

and the many exciting things that are to come over the next five years.

(II) Programming - continue to grow folklife representations, visitor experiences & Gaelic outreach.

Since joining the Nova Scotia Museum in 2000, most of our efforts have

been focused on strengthening our interpretive and outreach programs and

offerings. These efforts will continue to grow and evolve in the years to

come. In 2015, we are introducing new experiential and value added

programs for visitors and groups. Highlights from these new offerings

include: Animator for a Day, where visitors can dress in costume, assume a

character, and immerse themselves in our story; a two hour living history

experience for adults and families; a revamped Spòrs program for children;

cultural experiences with a storytelling tour and milling frolic for group tours

including select cruise ship tours; a 1-2 hour children’s program specifically

for cruise ship clientele; and Highland Skills days, a series of workshops

focused on Gaelic folklife skills. In addition to these new programs, we are

also shooting for a new orientation video this coming summer, as well as

beginning to implement the recommendations from last year’s farm

programming plan.

(III) Site Development - develop and implement vision for the physical capacity and appearance of the site.

The current physical Highland Village site does not meet the current or

future capacity needs of the Highland Village operation. Support facilities for

visitor services, retail, administration, collections management, and

maintenance remain inadequate. The aesthetics of the Highland Village

entry area continue to provide a poor first impression for the Highland

Village visitor. In our last strategic planning process, the need for a site

development strategy was identified.

We are pleased to report that a draft strategy has been developed and

adopted by the NSHVS Board of Trustees, and endorsed by the Nova Scotia

Museum and the Building Services team, Department of Internal Services.

The result is a $2.6 million strategy featuring tactics that support five key

goals: (1) update the gateway aesthetics of the site; (2) resolve visitor

welcome, orientation and administration space issues; (3) enhance the

interpretive capacity of the site; (4) address other support service and


building improvements; and (5) improve the representation and presentation

of natural and agricultural vegetation.

We are currently working with the support of Nova Scotia Museum staff to

begin to shape the site development strategy into a project ready to

implement. Over the summer and early fall, we will be working with

consultants to conceptualise and price components of the strategy, as well

as to develop a business plan that supports the implementation of the

strategy. The board has also begun to work with a fundraising consultant,

with support from ACOA, to help shape a capital campaign. It is also

important to note that we have had positive feedback on potential funding

from various levels of government.

We will have much more to share with our members and other stakeholders

this fall, through a proposed stakeholder consultation session.

(IV) Human Resources - develop succession strategies for staff and board to sustain and grow the operation.

The Highland Village is very fortunate to have a team of capable and

committed employees. However, the current demographics of our staff will

provide us with some short, and more significantly, long term challenges in

sustaining the operation. While we have taken some short term steps

through mentoring and the addition of Na Cleasaichean team, we do need

to look at some longer term strategies to ensure we have the cultural,

linguistic, interpretive, and organizational capacity to sustain the operation.

We will be working to develop a strategy for our human resources in the

2015/16 off-season.

(V) Earned Income - develop strategies to grow earned income through existing and new revenue sources.

While feedback from our visitors has never been better, we are increasingly

challenged to maintain and grow our visitation and earned income base.

That challenge largely comes from the demographic changes happening on

Cape Breton Island, as well as a soft tourism industry.

While there are new opportunities for partnerships developing in our

community and around the Island, broadening and expanding our earned

income base is a challenge. We will need to look innovatively at new

revenue sources as well as maximizing our existing ones.

Operational Goals

Interpretation and Programming - To provide experiential and interactive programs to demonstrate Gaelic folklife in Nova Scotia.

Overall, our 2014 daily animation and interpretive program was very suc-

cessful. First person animation continued to evolve resulting in more effec-

tive storytelling and increased engagement with visitors. A wide variety of

demonstration activities were present throughout the season.

Highlights from 2014 include: completion of Suas As An Talamh/From the

Ground Up - a farm program plan developed by Emily Clegg, with funding

from Support4Culture; expansion of cultural presence and mentoring with

Na Cleasaichean; expansion of cultural presentations (millings and céilidhs);

expansion of food interpretation with improved food safety compliance;

continued material cultural research; significant uptake of Làithean Sona,

children’s living history program; introduction of day time storytelling tours;

re-introduction of Sgadan ’s Buntata in-class cultural experience; significant

increase in school visits to the Highland Village; piloting a new object-based

learning program for the Grade 5 curriculum with the Nova Scotia Museum;


and continuing to evolve interpretive events such as Oidhche nam Bòcan,

Pioneer Day, Carding Mill Day, Donald Og Day, Celtic Colours programs,

and more.

While we have made considerable progress with interpretation and

programming, there is still much work to do including: continued growth of

first person capacity through research, training and character building,

enhanced hands-on opportunities for all age groups, improved orientation,

improved farm interpretation, incorporation of natural history themes, and

value added experiences.

The expectations of a museum visitor have changed significantly over the

past two decades. Today’s visitor is seeking encounters that allow for

meaningful social interactions, which they use to create memorable

experiences, while connecting emotionally to the information being

presented to them. Continuing research, including visitor feedback and best

practices, will continue to play an important role in ensuring that our

programs and interpretation remain relevant and engaging for visitors.

Gaelic Community Capacity Building & Outreach - To be a leader in Gaelic language and cultural development in Nova Scotia.

The Village is a recognised leader for Gaelic language and cultural devel-

opment in Nova Scotia. Since joining the Nova Scotia Museum in 2000, we

have led, or been part of, a number of initiatives to help advance Gaelic in

our province. Highlights from the past year include: successful four day

Stòras a’ Bhaile Gaelic Folk life school offered in August; Caidreabh na Tì

monthly tea and socials during the off-season; continued support for An

Drochaid Eadarainn (The Bridge Between Us) interactive web portal; expan-

sion of cultural presence and mentoring with Na Cleasaichean; hosting a

living history experience for Na Gaisgich Òga (The Little Heros) participants;

revision of our Gaelic (language and cultural) policy; and participation in the

Gaelic leaders group with Comhairle na Gàidhlig.

We are recognised within Nova Scotia and in Scotland for our community

outreach and development work around Gaelic language and culture. We

will continue to initiate and participate in activities that advance the capacity

of the Nova Scotia Gaelic community.

Research - To sponsor high quality research to support programs and material representation, as well as a publications program.

In order to ensure authenticity in programming and material presentation of

the site, as well as staying abreast of best practices in interpretation, we con-

tinue to place much emphasis on research. 2014 priorities included research

to authenticate material presentation for other eras on site and support for

the site development strategy, a plan for revitalisation of the farm program,

and on-going research to support Gaelic language and cultural content on

site and in programming. In addition, we also continue to publish An Rubha,

the Highland Village Gaelic Folklife Magazine. An Rubha contains many arti-

cles related to Gaelic language, Gaelic arts and material culture.

In addition to our research to support interpretation and development, we

continue to offer contracted genealogical research. Unfortunately, there was

a significant reduction in research requests. In the 2014 calendar year, there

were 41 requests, down from 68 in 2013.

We have made significant progress in 2014 towards storage of our digitized

audio/video and archival materials through new server space provided by

the Province’s CIO (Chief Information Office). Unfortunately, a long term

solution for our genealogical data is still up in the air.


Human Resources and Governance - To develop and support the human resources necessary to achieve the vision.

Highland Village is very fortunate to have a skilled and dedicated staff. To

ensure that staff are able to meet our operational needs, including interpre-

tation (linguistic and heritage skills, content knowledge and interpretive

methodologies), legislative compliance and organisational capacity, the

Highland Village continues to invest in relevant training and professional

development opportunities. 2014 activities included: Canadian Museums

Association annual conference; Association of Nova Scotia Museums annual

conference; construction safety; craft development, etc. Animation devel-

opment sessions also took place in the spring of 2014 with mentoring

throughout the summer.

Our most immediate human resource challenge is the demographics of our

workforce. As of the fall of 2014, 45% of our staff was 60 years of age or

older (including 75% of our management positions and 35% of our front line

positions), unchanged from 2013. The average age of our permanent staff

was 53 (does not include contract, or project staff) as of December 2014

(ages range from 22 to 75). This is a decrease from a average of 58 last year.

We did see a number of staff changes in the spring 2014, due to staff re-

tirements. This resulted in some new more youthful staff (under 40 staff in-

crease from 14% to 18%), along with some lost heritage skills and knowl-

edge. In the next several years, we will see a significant number of retire-

ments. Couple these current challenges with demographic changes

throughout Cape Breton Island, and we could be looking at significant skills

gaps in our operational requirements.

With mentoring and the addition of Na Cleasaichean, we have provided

some short term relief to our HR challenge. However, we require strategies

to address this issue for the long term. Subsequent to the completion of our

site development strategy, we will embark on the development of a human

resource strategy for the organisation.

From April to December 2014, volunteers contributed 1,997 hours to the

Highland Village, a 4.4% increase over the same period in 2013, which was

up 106% over 2012. This incredible volunteer commitment was recognised

at our annual Volunteer party in April at the Iona Legion as well as through

Victoria County’s annual volunteer program. This year’s volunteer awards

were presented to Elizabeth MacNeil of Jamesville and Zac MacKinnon of

Christmas Island (youth award).

The 2014 Nova Scotia Highland Village Society Award of Merit recipient was

Hector MacNeil of Castle Bay and Sydney River. Hector was recognised for

his work in supporting Gaelic in Nova Scotia.

Provincial Infrastructure - To develop and maintain the physical in-frastructure including grounds, buildings, farm, artifacts and equipment in accordance with standards and NSM policies.

The management of our current physical infrastructure continues to adhere

to accepted standards for artifacts, archival materials and heritage buildings,

and in accordance with the requirements of the Province of Nova Scotia.

Highland Village staff have positive working relationships with staff from the

Nova Scotia Museum and Nova Scotia Department of Internal Services

(Building Services division) regarding the management of these assets.

In addition to the on site work from by our maintenance team, guided by

our maintenance planning tool, Building Services (ISD) is in the midst of a

couple of projects. The most significant project includes repairs to the front

facade of the church, resulting from a December 2013 wind storm and water

damage. The project also involves improving structural support to the

steeple and the addition of a second door with wheelchair ramp. They have


also contracted the installation of new siding and roofing shingles on the

lower washroom building. This summer a tender will be called for the re-

placement of walls and roof of our 20 year old log cabin. A previously ap-

proved project to upgrade the exterior of the canteen, including new foun-

dation, has been deferred until next year.

In addition to the projects mentioned above, we will receive $20,000 in

funding in the 2015/16 fiscal from Building Services towards other mainte-

nance projects that will be undertaken by our staff this coming summer.

Marketing & Building Awareness - To effectively market the Highland Village as a destination for experiencing Gaelic folklife and as an in-ternational centre for Gaelic culture and heritage.

The marketing objectives for 2014 were: increase the number of Cape Bre-

ton visitors by 10%; increase the number of Nova Scotia visitors by 5%; halt

the decline of visitors from other “individual” sources; and enrol 100 people

in the Village’s new Ambassadors program. The results from the past two

years are as follows:

The focus for 2015 is to continue the media mix that creates visibility for the

Highland Village in Cape Breton but also to increase road traffic to the High-

land Village by creating more awareness of the Highland Village to travellers

on route to Cape Breton through mainland Nova Scotia. The central mes-

sage will invite visitors to, “Put Yourself in Our Gaelic Story”. The marketing

objectives for 2015 are to increase the number of Cape Breton & NS visitors

by 5% maintain the numbers from the other source areas.

The Highland Village is one of the founding and signature partners in the

“Celtic Heart of North America” marketing cooperative, the goal of which is

to promote and enhance Cape Breton Island’s Gaelic/Celtic tourism product.

Celtic Heart is entering its 6th year of operation. In the fall of 2014, Celtic

Heart was a finalist for the Tourism Industry Association of Canada’s Cultural

Tourism Award.

Other marketing partnerships include: Colaisde na Ghàidhlig | The Gaelic

College, Celtic Colours International Festival Society, Eskasoni Cultural

Journeys, Cape Breton Blacksmiths Association; as well as several accom-

modation providers.

We are very excited about the potential for increased visitor traffic through

Central Cape Breton in 2015 as a result of developments next door at the

newly named Iona Heights Inn, Jill’s Chocolates & Cafe, Frolic and Folk Pub

& Grill and the Little Dipper. As well, businesses and groups in Central Cape

Breton have come together under the Discover Us banner to promote the

area. All of this, with the new Goat Island attraction in Eskasoni sees some

critical mass developing in our area.

Source 2012 2013 2014 Goal/annum

Actual 2013

Actual 2014

CBI 4,280 6,171 6,200 10% 44% 0.5%

NS 1,472 1,515 1,565 5% 3% 3.3%

Canada 3,038 3,119 2,944 0%+ 3% -6%

US* 2,665 2,319 2,397 0%+ -13% 3.4%

International 753 732 782 0%+ -3% 6.8%

Ambassador

Passn/a 0 0 100 0 0


Community Partnerships and Outreach: To cooperate with other local community groups to support community economic and cultural development

We are involved in many other groups to advance initiatives in our local

community, in the wider Gaelic cultural community, and in the provincial

tourism and heritage sectors. Our most significant partnerships at this point

include: the Celtic Heart marketing partnership, M7 collective, and An

Drochaid Eadarainn working group (St. FX, NSCAD, Office of Gaelic Affairs,

and Victoria County). Staff also participate in committees with the

Association of Nova Scotia Museums, Heritage Cape Breton Connection,

Comairle na Gàidhlig, Destination Cape Breton, and the Cape Breton

Partnership Prosperity Framwork.

There are two partnerships, I want to elaborate on: First, the Stòras na h-

Òigridh | Treasures of Youth Scholarship Endowment. Thanks to the diligent

work of the Committee, the initial fundraising goal of $35,000 for the first

campaign was exceeded. The fund currently stands at $43,000 and is being

managed in partnership with the Community Foundation of Nova Scotia.

The first disbursement of $1,000 was made last summer to Jessie Helen

MacNeil. Based on investments, the committee will have $2,000 to award

this summer.

The other important community partnership of note, is the annual Central

Cape Breton Appreciation Dinner for the Cape Breton Cancer Centre. The

11th annual dinner took place on May 23rd raising a record $5,900 for the

Patient Care fund at the Centre. Since 2005, the dinner has contributed over

$45,000 to the fund. Our partners include Branch 124, Grandona Legion, St.

Columba CWL, and Paul MacNeil, Councillor District 1, Municipality of Vic-

toria County.

Visitation & Participation

As noted in the introduction of this report, our 2014 visitor season closed

with overall site usage down by 0.8% over the same period in 2013. This

decrease was the result of slight decreases in off the road (FIT) traffic (-2.4%)

and cruise ship passengers (-2.4%) as well as a a significant decrease in other

(-25%). This was in spite of a 102.7% increase in school program

participation and a 11.9% increase in rentals.

Overall site usage to December 31, 2014 was 18,521, down 2.4% (142

visitors) from 2013. It was down 10.8% (2,241 people) from our 10 year

average of 20,762.

Highland Village continues to be one of the more popular destinations for

shore excursions. In the past few years, we have consistently captured be-

tween 6 and 7% of the passengers arriving in Sydney. In 2013, we slipped

slightly to 5%. In 2014, we saw our market share increase to 6%.

Mode 2014 2013 Difference %‘age

FIT 10,011 10,253 -242 -2%

Schools 1,569 774 795 103%

Cruise 4,660 4,773 -113 -2%

Rentals 432 386 46 12%

Other 1,849 2,477 -628 -25%

Total 18,521 18,663 -142 -1%


Attendance Comparisons - Cape Breton Parks Canada Sites

The following chart graph provides a ten year comparison of our visitation

against the two large Parks Canada sites on Cape Breton Island - Alexander

Graham Bell National Historic Site and the Fortress of Louisbourg National

Historic Site (in thousands):

* In 000‘s. Source for Parks Canada statistics: Nova Scotia Tourism Agency.

In 2004, there were around 90,000 visitors to the Bell Museum and 102,000

to the Fortress. Those numbers dropped to 66,000 and 76,000 respectively

in 2012. Largely the result of special events and promotions, 2013 saw both

the Fortress of Louisbourg and AG Bell end a decade long period of de-

clines in attendance experiencing increases 8% for AG Bell and 37% for

Fortress of Louisbourg. In 2014, attendance was down at AG Bell by 4% and

the Fortress by 31%. At Highland Village our attendance over the past

decade has been relatively steady. It peaked in 2003 with almost 24,000

visitors. With the exception of 2003, Highland Village attendance has varied

between 19,500 to 22,500 per annum since 2000. Highland Village visitation

was off 10.5% in 2014 from our ten year average.

Attendance Comparisons - Nova Scotia Museum sites (to Oct. 31/14)

This chart shows 2014 attendance at the largest 9 Nova Scotia Museum sites

as well as the total attendance to all 27 Nova Scotia Museum sites. It was

certainly a mixed bag in attendance this year. The Acadian Village’s increase

Year Actual To Sydney Actual to HV HV Share

2014 82,599 4,660 6%

2013 99,372 4,773 5%

2012 86,658 5,700 7%

2011 67,590 4,318 6%

HV AGB L’bourg

NSM 2014 2013 Difference %‘age

Acadian Village 16,587 13,898 2,689 19%

Fisheries Museum 77,509 56,948 20,561 36%

Fundy Geological 13,498 20,867 -7,369 -35%

Highland Village 18,386 18,484 -98 -1%

Maritime Museum 134,794 144,098 -9,304 -6%

Museum of Industry 11,836 15,369 -3,533 -23%

Natural History 41,707 46,572 -4,865 -10%

Ross Farm 20,072 21,358 -1,286 -6%

Sherbrooke Village 21,022 15,719 5,303 34%

All 27 NSM Sites 419,611 414,659 4,952 1%


came largely from the resumed Yarmouth ferry service. Fisheries Museum re-

opened parts of its site after construction as well as saw some increase from

the ferry service. The factors for the apparent increase in Sherbrooke visita-

tion are not clear at this point. All of the other major sites experienced de-

clines in visitation. From April 1 to October 31, 2014 Highland Village was

the 6th most visited site of the 27 Nova Scotia Museum sites.

Acknowledgements

‣ Tapadh leibh-se gu mór - The Nova Scotia Highland Village Society

gratefully acknowledges the support of many individuals, organisations

and governments for their unwavering support of the Highland Village

and its work. Acknowledgements of our funding and project partners

can be found on page 4 of this report.

‣ Retiring Board Members - A special thank you to retiring Highland

Village Board members: Susan Cameron of Antigonish, who has also

served as President for the past two years (trustee since 2009); Eleanor

Anderson, Sydney (trustee since 2013) and Susan Samways (trustee

since 2012). We thank each and everyone of them for their contributions

to the work of the board and the success of the organisation.

‣ Farm Program Partners - Special thanks to those friends of the Village

who provide animals and other contributions to our farm interpretation

program: Dell Corbett, Grand Mira (“Mira Jean” clydesdale horse); Kelly and Jim Booth, Gillis Point (highland cattle); Trueman and Laurinda

Matheson (soay sheep); the late Billy Higgins, Christmas Island (heritage

potato seeds); and John Philip Rankin, Mabou (horse training).

‣ Donations - Elizabeth Cameron, Inverness; Alexandra Ellis, Little

Narrows; Peggy Gillis, East Bay; Robert S. Latimer, Truro; John J.

MacEachern, Sydney; Ann K. MacIntosh, River Denys; Gwen MacKenzie,

New Glasgow; Anne MacNeil, Ottawa Brook; David Newlands,

Dartmouth; Jim St.Clair, Mull River (in Honour of Rod C. MacNeil’s 90th

Birthday); Kent & Debi Walker, Big Ridge

‣ Stòras na h-Òigridh/ Treasures of Youth Donations - Jills Franklin &

Jills Chocolates, Iona; Jack & Aileen MacKillop, Baddeck; Martia

MacLean, Sydney; Deidre MacNeil, Vienna, VA; Lawrence & Anne

Newstman, Halifax; George Seto, Dartmouth; Carol Urquhart,

Whycocomagh, Alex Weinberger

‣ Artefacts & Archival Donations - Frank Cash, John Gwynne, Edith

Jaeger, Murrena Kennedy, Harry Lent, Charles MacDonald, Murrena

MacIntyre, Gwendolyn MacKenzie, Basil MacLean, Carol MacNeil, and

Jim St.Clair.

‣ Deaths - Sympathies to the families of friends of the Highland Village or

supporters of Gaelic in Nova Scotia over the past year including:

Malcolm “Maxie” Dan Angus MacNeil - well known Gaelic singer,

former board member and long time volunteer of the Highland Village;

Kerrie MacKenzie, daughter of retired Gift Shop staffer Gerry MacNeil;

Sadie Mae MacInnis, grandmother of Administrative Assistant Janet

MacNeil; Frances “Rory Sis” MacDonald, well known fiddle, and


Hector MacNeil (centre) re-

ceives the 2014 Nova Scotia

Highland Village Society

Award of Merit from Trustees

Paul Wukitsch and Betty

Lord.

grandfather of Animator Emily MacDonald; Mildred MacNeil, sister of

Animator Pauline Campbell; Florence MacNeil, wife of NSHVS Past

President Walter MacNeil; Nancy Linkletter, mother of board member

Michael Linkletter; James MacQueen, father of retiring board member

Eleanor Anderson; Rose MacNeil, mother of NSHVS Past President

Bruce MacNeil; and Billy Higgins, who has donated a number of

heritage potato seeds.

Wrap Up

The Highland Village has great strengths in its programming, its people, its

site, and its relationships and partnerships. We have made much progress

towards our vision as a result of our strengths. In the years to come our goal

is to maintain and grow our successes by taking advantage of the

opportunities that are in front of us to enhance and expand our offerings

and experiences, better connect our story, and the wisdom and richness of

that story, to contemporary life, and build new mutually beneficial

partnerships.

While there is a lot of work ahead of us, our path to 2020 is paved with

many exciting possibilities. Building upon the legacy handed down to us by

our ancestors, Baile nan Gàidheal | Highland Village will achieve its goal to

be the premier venue for experiential presentation and transmission of Nova

Scotia Gaelic language, culture & folklife

In closing, I wish to thank the board and staff of the Highland Village for all

of their contributions to the successes of the Society. We certainly could not

have made the progress we have without their dedication and commitment.

Respectfully submitted by

Rodney Chaisson Director

June 24, 2014


Top to bottom; (1) Animator Catherine Gillis sharing a story with a visitor in

the blackhouse; (2) Iona Gaelic singers performing for our Annual Highland

Village Day Concert, including Maxie MacNeil (centre) who passed away

this past winter; and (3) centre chimney “MacDonald” house

and the Malagawatch Church

Financial Report - Betty Lord, Treasurer Attached to this report are the Statement of Revenue & Expenditures for the

General Account of the Society and the Schedule of Operating and

Administrative Expenditures for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2015. The

complete statements, as prepared by our auditors Grant Thornton, are

available on our website or by request.

Highlights from this year’s statements include:

‣ The March 31, 2015 fiscal year ended with a slight surplus of $1,174.

The carry over deficit of $913 from March 31, 2014 resulted in an

accumulated surplus at March 31, 2015 of $261.

‣ Overall revenues (including gross retail sales) were up 1% ($3,251) over

budget at year end and 3% ($24,239) more than actuals at March 31,

2014, largely due to an increase in our core funding from the Nova

Scotia Museum.

‣ The operating grant for 2014/15 from the Province of Nova Scotia,

through the Nova Scotia Museum, saw a 3.76% increase to $738,296

from $711,575 (not including $9,000 in special funding) in 2013/14. Our

grant in 2012/13 was $754,586.

‣ Overall earned income (including gross retail sales) was up 2% ($3,251)

from budget. March 31, 2015 actuals were also up 4% ($6,518) from the

previous year. Increases included admission revenue, retail sales,

interest and programming fees. Declines included fundraising concerts

and miscellaneous revenues.

‣ The Society received $16,787 from student funding programs in 2014,

including contributions from the former NS Department of Economic

and Rural Development and Tourism ($10,770), NS Department of

Community Services ($2,912) and Service Canada ($3,105).

‣ Overall operational expenditures (including retail expenditures) for this

fiscal were up 4% ($36,740) from the previous fiscal, and up 1% ($1,645)

from budget.

‣ Project funding included: (1) $35,000 from NS Community, Culture &

Heritage’s Support4Culture program towards the development of a

farm programming and interpretive plan; (2) $5,000 from the Office of

Gaelic Affairs towards the Stóras a’ Bhaile Gaelic Folklife School; (3)

$5,000 from the Office of Gaelic Affairs towards An Drochaid Eadarainn

moderation & strategic planning; (4) $4,000 in support from Enterprise

Cape Breton Corporation towards festival and event costs; and (5) $500

from Victoria County Recreation and Tourism for music presentation.

‣ At March 31, reserve funds are as follows: $189,484 for replacement

reserve, $20,571 for strategic planning and $23,591 for employee sick

days.

‣ The Society is currently in a good cash flow position. As of March 31,

the Society had assets of $274,630 which included restricted funds

($233,646), gift shop inventory ($19,162), prepaids ($5,081), cash

($12,377) and receivables ($4,364). Liabilities of $40,723 included

deferred revenues ($14,167) as well as payables and accruals ($26,556).

The Society’s net assets at March 31, 2015 were $233,907.


Finance Committee

Betty Lord, Treasurer (Chair)

June 18, 2015


Nominating Committee Report

The Nominating Committee of the Nova Scotia Highland Village Society is

pleased to present its report to the membership of the Society. Serving on

the committee this year has been Betty Lord, Pam MacGillivray, and Paul

Wukitsch

In accordance with the By-Laws of the Nova Scotia Highland Village Society

dated June 3, 2009 (clauses 23 through 34), the Nominating Committee

presents the following three individuals to the membership for election to

serve on the Society’s Board of Trustees: Quentin MacDonald of Washabuck,

Damian MacInnis of Port Hood, and Vince MacLean of Northside East Bay.

With the election of these individuals, the composition of the Board of

Trustees, including its officers, is as follows:

‣ Angie Farrell, Christmas Island (Exp. 2016/19)

‣ Catherine Ann Fuller, Baddeck (Exp. 2016/19) - Vice President

‣ Elizabeth (Betty) Lord, Howie Centre (Exp. 2016/19) -

Treasurer

‣ Charlene Ellis, Little Narrows (Exp. 2017)

‣ Pam MacGillivray, Shunacadie (Exp. 2017)

‣ Hector (Frankie) MacNeil, Iona (Exp. 2017)

‣ Paul Wukitsch, Shunacadie (Exp. 2017) - Secretary

‣ John Hugh Edwards, Ross Ferry (Exp. 2017/20)

‣ Dr. Michael Linkletter, Antigonish (Exp. 2017/20)

‣ Murdock A. MacPherson, Creignish (Exp. 2017/20) - President

‣ Melissa Nicholson, Baddeck (Exp. 2017/20)

‣ Meaghan O’Handley, Grand Narrows (Exp. 2017/20)

‣ Quentin MacDonald, Washabuck (Exp. 2018/21)

‣ Damian MacInnis, Port Hood (Exp. 2018/21)

‣ Vince MacLean, Northside East Bay (Exp. 2018/21)

In addition to the above names, Dan Chiasson of Baddeck has agreed to

continue in his capacity as the Society’s pro-bono legal counsel.

The committee thanks retiring board members Susan Cameron, Eleanor

Anderson & Susan Samways for their contributions to the work of the Board

and support of the Society.


The Nominating Committee

Betty Lord, Pam MacGillivray, and Paul Wukitsch

June 18, 2015

Board of Trustee Bios

Dan Chiasson is a lawyer who serves as the Society’s pro-bono legal counsel (ex-officio). Dan is very involved in community organisations. He lives in Baddeck with his wife Nancy.

John Hugh Edwards was born and raised in Sydney Mines and has lived in Ross Ferry for the past thirty years, minus periods of exile in the United Kingdom and Ottawa. In 2002, John Hugh facilitated a province wide series of meetings on the future of Gaelic in Nova Scotia. A report on the consultation was released by the NS Department of Tourism and Culture in December 2002.


Charlene Ellis is from Little Narrows, the mother of 3 and has been teaching at Rankin School of the Narrows for the past 27 years.

Angie Farrell is a fluent Gaelic speaker from Christmas Island and retired public school teacher.

Catherine Ann Fuller lives in Baddeck and is a community development specialist. Catherine Ann is an avid sailor and aspiring mandolin player and is very proud of her children!

Dr. Michael Linkletter originally hails from the Summerside area of PEI. He received his PhD from Harvard University and has taught in the Celtic Studies Department at StFX since 2001.

Betty Lord, Howie Center, is a traditional Gaelic singer and a student of Gaelic language and culture. She has organized numerous Gaelic cultural events including language workshops, lectures, concerts, as well as fundraising events. She is a founding member of Feis a’ Bhaile Bhig, in Pictou County. Betty is retired from Sobeys.

Quentin MacDonald was born, raised & presently living in the neighbouring community of Washabuck. His father Ronald was a fluent native Gaelic speaker and his mother Joan is a traditional step-dancer who performed at the first Highland Village Day Concert. Quentin has been a volunteer at the Village since the mid-1980s and the Highland Village Day concert producer since 2000. He has a great interest in promoting the culture and history of our Scottish Gaelic ancestors.

Pam MacGillivray, was born and raised in Glace Bay, attended Mt. St. Vincent University (BA), St.F.X. (BEd), and San Diego State (Masters Ed Admin.). She worked in education in Alberta for over thirty years, served as Board Chairman of Keyano College and on the Senate of the Univ. of Alberta. She is retired and living in Shunacadie.

Damian MacInnis is the Executive Director for the Strait Area Chamber of Commerce whose jurisdiction spreads vastly through the majority of Cape Breton Island and Northern Nova Scotia. He is the Chair of the Prosperity Framework’s Workforce Development Committee and also sits on the Entrepreneurship and Oceans Sector Committee’s. He started his own kayak rental, sales and tours business and moved on

to work in Canada’s Arctic as the Community Economic Development Officer for Rankin Inlet, Nunavut. and then the VP, Business Development for M&T Enterprises Ltd.. He now works part time as a consultant for the Rankin Inlet Harbour Corporation as their Vice President. He resides in Port Hood, Cape Breton with his wife Brenna and spends his time off coaching baseball and basketball, and refereeing hockey.

Vince MacLean is a former mayor for the City of Sydney, Leader of the Official Opposition for the Province of Nova Scotia, and Minister of various NS departments. Vince has sat on the boards of many important institutions and community organizations including the Sydney Airport Authority, Marine Atlantic, ACOA, Old Sydney Society, Cape Breton Regional Economic Development Authority, Nova Scotia Cancer Society and others. Vince is son of the late well known fiddler Joe MacNeil of Washabuck. Joe’s collection of fiddle manuscripts is housed at the Highland Village. Vince lives in Northside East Bay with his wife Natalie.

Hector (Frankie) MacNeil of Iona was born here, schooled here and worked for CN Rail 6 or so yrs. He then went off to work for Air Canada at Toronto airport for 31 years retiring in 2001. He returned to Cape Breton with his wife Josie, leaving daughter & son to fend for themselves. He is here until “someone plants me.”

M.A. (Murdock Andrew) MacPherson is a retired educator and administrator who has worked in public, military and private school as well as St. Francis Xavier University. He currently instructs in the University of New Brunswick’s Masters of Education program. He lives in Creignish with his wife Sandra. They have two adult children, and a brand new granddaughter.

Melissa Nicholson was born and raised in Big Baddeck. Growing up, history and culture was an important part of the lessons she learned at her grandfathers' knees. She has a BA in Celtic Culture from Cape Breton University, which featured a one year immersion at Sabhal Mòr Ostaig. She is currently enrolled in the B.Ed. program at St. FX University and works as a guide at the Alexander Graham Bell Museum.

Meaghan O’Handley grew up in Boisdale. She teaches Gaelic and music at Rankin School of the Narrows. She has been involved with Gaelic language and culture for many years. She lives in Grand Narrows with her husband Ian MacNeil.

Paul Wukitsch is a retired social worker, and a well known fiddler with the Boisdale

Trio. He lives in Shunacadie with his wife Jane and their three children.



Comunn Baile Ghàidheal nan h-Albann Nuaidh | Nova Scotia Highland Village Society 4119 Rathad 223, Rubha Eachainn, Alba Nuadh, B2C 1A3 | 4119 Highway 223, Iona, NS, B2C 1A3

(902) 725-2272 1-866-442-3542 www.highlandvillage.ca



Documents

Aithisg Bhliadnhal|Annual Report 2014/15 · Animator/Farmer Sandy MacNeil Visitor Centre Clerks Sadie MacDonald, & Marlene MacDougall ... and acknowledgement is due for the hard work