Rants &Raves

We discuss athletes, irresponsible drivers and fresh veggies

RAVE: For Eskasoni and the Nova Scotia 2018 Mi’kmaw Summer Games. Eskasoni has been bustling this week as host for this year’s Mi’kmaw Summer Games. About 2,000 athletes were expected to take part in 24 different sports and cultural events throughout the week. The Games’ mission statement reads: “To inspire youth and young adults to believe in themselves, achieve their dreams and unite with all indigenous communities to share and learn Mi’kmaw culture and traditions.” By all accounts the events have been achieving that goal. They’ve been well-attended and the competitors and spectators have been enjoying the experience. Even the weather has been very cooperative. Of course, Cape Breton has a reputation for hosting successful Games. This year marks the second time Eskasoni has hosted the Games since they were revived eight years ago. As a matter of fact, eight of the nine events, including this year’s Games, have been held in Unima’ki, the Mi’kmaw word for Cape Breton. All five island First Nations have hosted the Games that were held in Wagmatcook in 2017, Membertou in 2016, Potlotek in 2014 and Waycobah in 2013. Congratulations to all who are taking part.

RANT: For impaired driving. According to statistics provided by the Cape Breton Regional Police Service and the RCMP this week, the frequency of impaired driving is down in most areas of Cape Breton. On the surface, it sounds like good news. But, take a closer look and consider that the fact remains there are still lots of people out there who choose to get behind the wheel when they’re impaired. And what’s more, those who are caught are likely “a little fraction of the number of people driving impaired,” RCMP Constable Chad Morrison told the Post. There’s no excuse for such irresponsible behaviour. Driving impaired puts not only yourself and anyone in your vehicle at risk, but it also poses a real danger for other motorists, pedestrians and for the first responders who have to deal with your actions. We all have a responsibility to not only ensure that we don’t drive impaired, but that we don’t allow others to get away with it. If you see someone who you suspect is an impaired driver, don’t ever hesitate to phone 9-1-1.

RAVE: For a fresh idea. The Glace Bay Food Bank was in the news this week sharing the success they’ve had with their gardening program. Not only are they continuing to grow fresh produce in their community garden, but at least 20 families have started their own gardens and haven’t needed to pick up hampers this season. What’s more, many of those families with home gardens are also donating excess vegetables back to the food bank to help others. To read this story just days after the federal government announced what they are billing as a “poverty reduction strategy” makes this local endeavour even more powerful. While some local stakeholders told the Post they believe the feds are taking a step in the right direction, it’s clear some thoughtful folks in Glace Bay are making their own strides towards real progress in lowering poverty in our community.