Imagine Our Schools ( IOS ) is a long-range planning process focused on engaging the public in a constructive conversation about the future of our schools. HRSB wants Innovative ideas from schools, the communities they serve, and the broader public as they determine how best to meet the future educational needs of our students. HRSB is asking the public to get involved, to take the time to look at the complex set of issues surrounding school facilities and the delivery of educational programs, and to have a voice in this critically important issue. In the 2007-08 school year, the first phase of IOS, involving five Metro Families of Schools, was completed which included Cole Harbour District and Auburn Drive High Schools. The remaining 10 families of schools are being considered during the 2008-09 school year. These families of schools include: Duncan MacMillan High School, Eastern Shore District High School, and Musquodoboit Rural High School. To learn more about the second and third phases of Community Consultations for IOS; call 464-2000 ext. 2277 or go to: www.hrsb.ns.ca/content/id/994.html , or you can e-mail them at imagine@hrsb.ns.ca

Tues., May 12th O’Connell Drive School.

Seniors should check out the NS Property Tax Rebate Program for some possible property tax relief. That Provincial program will provide each qualifying recipient with a 50% rebate of the property taxes paid to a maximum of $400. For more information; please call 1-877-296-9338 or 424-4500 or go on-line for an application form: www.gov.ns.ca/snsmr/rebates/programs/FPTR/application.pdf . Application deadline is December 31st. Please complete an application form and return it to Property Tax Rebate for Seniors Program, Box 283, Halifax CRO, B3J 2N7 or to your nearest Access-Nova Scotia Service Center at the Portland Street Superstore Shopping Mall.

Pre-screen applications are now available for community-based events within HRM to apply for a 2009 Festival & Event Grant. Preference will be given to events that are free to the public, are run by not-for-profit organizations, and have a broad appeal. Application deadline is January 31st. A form can be mailed or get it on-line: www.halifax.ca/events/documents/GrantPrescreenApplication.pdf . For further details, contact HRM Community Development - Attention: Civic Event Grant Process; Alderney Gate, 2nd Floor, P.O. Box 1749 Halifax, N.S. B3J 3A5. Phone: 490-2700 or Fax: 490-5950 or E-mail: CivicEventsGrants@halifax.ca . It is strongly recommended to complete and submit your pre-screen application as soon as possible. This way HRM can process it and confirm whether or not you may qualify for funding.

PEACE & GOODWILL TO ALL