Summer 2025: Stronger Together - Community Connections
- MLA Twila Grosse
- Aug 1
- 8 min read
Updated: Aug 5
Newsletter from Preston MLA, Twila Grosse
Lake Echo, Mineville, East Preston, North Preston, Ross Road, Cherry Brook, Lake Loon, Humber Park, Montague Gold Mines, Westphal, Sunset Acres and parts of Dartmouth.
Newsletter Highlight
August 1st is Emacipation Day
Aug 1 – Emancipation Day Celebration
Join us at the Halifax Waterfront at 11:00 AM for a powerful and joyful Emancipation Day event honoring freedom, resilience, and Black history.
Table of Contents:
From the MLA’s Desk
Message from MLA Twila Grosse
Introducing My Inaugural Newsletter
Dear Constituents,
I’m thrilled to bring you the very first edition of my newsletter—a new way for us to stay connected, informed, and inspired. As your MLA, I’m committed to being open, accessible, and engaged with the people I serve, and this platform is another step toward that promise.
Since taking office, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside passionate voices in the legislature to advance policies that prioritize mental wellness, economic growth, and inclusive education. Locally, I’ve met with community groups, attended community celebrations, and participated in town hall discussions to ensure your voices are guiding our progress.
At the heart of this newsletter is my deep commitment to community. Together, we’ve already achieved so much—and I know the path ahead holds even greater promise. My door remains open, and I will continue advocating for solutions that reflect the values we share.
To begin this journey, I leave you with one of my favorite reflections:
“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill
Thank you for allowing me to serve—you make this work meaningful.
Warm regards,
Twila Grosse
Member of the Legislative Assembly, Preston
A Few Highlights from MLA Twila Grosse
As summer unfolds across our beautiful Preston riding, I’m filled with pride in our resilient and caring community. Every handshake, story shared, and local success reminds me why I chose public service—to help us build a brighter, more connected future together. Thank you for the trust you place in me every day.
Rooted In Community, United In Purpose
My commitment to our community isn’t just professional—it’s deeply personal. Whether it’s attending church socials, mentoring young leaders, or collaborating with local non-profits, I strive to amplify every voice and stand firmly with every neighbour. We grow stronger, together. We thrive.
Reflection
"When we are rooted in community, our actions blossom in the service of others."
Tour of the Dartmouth General Hospital (DGH)
During this tour, the team highlighted the new innovations and enhancements to patient care.
Thank you to members of the DGH Foundation team for such a captivating tour.:
Stephen Harding (President and CEO),
Jenna Joyce (Vice President, Philanthropy),
Carolyn Marshall (Campaign Director) and,
Aaliyah Arab-Smith (Community Partnership Officer).
I am excited for the future of the DGH as it continues to chart the course for transformative and innovative care for its patients and community.
Housing Equity Takes Root: A Historic Launch for African Nova Scotians
In May, the African Nova Scotian community gathered at the Black Cultural Centre in Cherry Brook to celebrate something monumental—the official launch of the African Nova Scotian Housing Strategy.
This community-led initiative isn’t just a plan—it’s a movement. Designed by and for African Nova Scotians, the strategy plants seeds for long-term housing equity through four empowering pillars:
🔹 Community Bank – Fueling homegrown housing projects
🔹 Land Trust – Preserving and protecting community-owned land
🔹 Housing Hub – Connecting residents to tools and support
🔹 Development Toolkit – Guiding visionary builds
It was more than a policy unveiling—it was a celebration of belonging. The room pulsed with vision, resilience, and collective pride. I was honoured to stand shoulder to shoulder with leaders and neighbours, inspired by what we’re building—together.
interMission 2025 - Better Together
At interMission 2025 hosted by Atlantic Baptist Women at Crandall University, I had the privilege of sharing on the theme “Better Together.” In an age defined by isolation and division, our gathering was a testament to the enduring strength of unity.
I spoke about the power of collective transformation—how communities thrive when they rally around purpose and compassion. When churches become food banks, prayer groups become movements, and kindness becomes a force for change, we witness something amazing. Whether in our places of work, worship, or service, progress is forged through shared steps. No one should walk alone. Because we are, indeed, Better Together.
Community News Roundup
Community News & Highlights
Legacy in Action: Preston Gala (June 14th) Honors Youth Leadership and Community Spirit
On a vibrant evening filled with pride, purpose, and unity, the 3rd Preston Area Gala offered more than just celebration—it delivered a powerful message under the theme: Legacy – Empowering the Next Generation.
Held in the spirit of community and progress, the Gala was a space where legacy wasn’t just spoken about—it was embodied by the six outstanding youth recognized for their leadership and impact: Keonte Beals, Jayrell Diggs, Alondrea Johnston, Tiara Mulder, Na-Vaijah Slawter, and Revello Smith. These young change-makers are already shaping their communities—through advocacy, business innovation, creative expression, and the everyday courage of showing up for one another.
“In a time when we often ask youth to step up, these six show us they already have,” remarked one attendee. “They’re building the future now.”
The evening also featured compelling contributions from speaker Russell Brooks, who delivered an inspiring keynote, and spoken word artist Leah A. Finley, whose performance echoed the theme of legacy with grace and depth. Gratitude flowed to the Preston Area Housing Fund, whose commitment made the evening possible, and to the many hands and hearts who created a night to remember.
The Gala’s takeaway was clear: recognition is only one piece of the puzzle—real empowerment requires open doors. It calls for continued investment, opportunities, and belief in our youth.
Lake Echo Shines Bright for Canada’s 158th Birthday
On July 1st, under a brilliant canopy of sunshine and waving maple leaf flags, the Lake Echo community came together to mark Canada’s 158th birthday with an unforgettable celebration of unity, pride, and joy.
A heartfelt thank-you goes to the Lake Echo Lions and Lioness Clubs, whose dedication and hard work transformed the day into one brimming with Canadian spirit. Thanks to their leadership, neighbours, friends, and families united in a shared love for the country we call home.
At noon, voices rose as one in the singing of O Canada, echoing through the crowd in a moving display of national unity. It was followed by a joyful cake cutting ceremony, where smiles were shared, memories were made, and Canada’s birthday was officially—and deliciously—celebrated.
Throughout the festivities, one sentiment rang loud and clear: “Canada is the best country in the world.” Whether spoken in quiet conversations or shouted with enthusiasm, it captured the heart of the celebration and the deep pride felt by all.
117 Preston/Westphal Army Cadets Celebrate 29th Annual Review
June 4th marked the 117 Preston/Westphal Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corps’ 29th Annual Ceremonial Review.
The Reviewing Officer, Mr. Ken Fells—a dedicated former Cadet Instructor and commander—helped mark the occasion with distinction.
Led by Captain Joseph Mesh, CD, this peer-led program offers youth aged 12–18 from Dartmouth, Westphal, Preston, and Lake Echo a chance to grow through fitness, discipline, leadership, and teamwork.
Congratulations to the cadets on a successful review—well done!
Celebrating the Class of 2025: Woodlawn and Auburn High Schools
On June 27th, two remarkable venues came alive with joy, pride, and the echo of applause as 271 Woodlawn High and 273 Auburn High graduates crossed the stage. Graduation isn’t just a ceremony—it’s a punctuation mark at the end of an unforgettable chapter. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, bittersweet nostalgia, and the promise of what’s to come.
Each name called was more than an acknowledgment of academic achievement—it was a tribute to every late night, every hurdle overcome, and every step of personal growth. Families beamed, friends cheered, and when caps soared skyward, it wasn’t just tradition—it was a collective exhale of hope and possibility.
To the graduates: your journey is just beginning. Dream boldly, persevere fiercely, and remember, “Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.” — Norman Vincent Peale
Congratulations, Class of 2025. Now go write your story
North Preston Celebration 2025: Rooted in Legacy, Rising in Unity
From July 18–20, North Preston came alive in a beautiful celebration of legacy, faith, and unity.
From the laughter of children on Kids Fun Day to the soul-stirring gospel concert featuring Grammy Award winning - Donnie McClurkin; the weekend radiated joy and togetherness. The 18th Annual North Preston Day (Saturday) organized by Women With a Vision brought the community together with a hearty breakfast, a vibrant parade, music, games, barbecue, and dazzling fireworks. Sunday’s church service and Pastor Jivaro Smith’s induction marked a profound spiritual renewal.
This year’s celebration was more than an event—it was a living, breathing testament to the strength and soul of North Preston. Rooted in the power of legacy
and lifted by the force of unity, this community continues to rise—with love, purpose, and pride leading the way.
Your Voice Matters
Community Pulse - Fun & Important Polls
What should be our government's top priority for 2025?
Roads & Transportation
Youth Programs & Education
Affordable Housing
Another important issue (please email us with your view!)
What would you like to see more of in the next issue of this newsletter?
Community News
Highlights from MLA Grosse
Upcoming Events in the Community
Fun Summer Question: What is your favourite Nova Scotia summertime treat?
Moon Mist Ice Cream
Strawberry Shortcake
Blueberry Grunt
Apple Crisp
Mark Your Calendar!
Upcoming events in the area
August is Full of Community Spirit!
Aug 1 – Emancipation Day Celebration
Join us at the Halifax Waterfront at 11:00 AM for a powerful and joyful Emancipation Day event honoring freedom, resilience, and Black history.
Aug 5 – Civic Holiday
Celebrate the long weekend with good food and great company!
Open House Barbecue hosted by MLA Twila Grosse
Black Culture Centre | 1:00–3:00 PM
Aug 9 – BLM 5K Walk/Run
Lace up for justice and wellness!
Start time: 9:00 AM
A timed 5K walk/run supporting Black Lives Matter—come move with purpose.
Aug 15–17 – African United Baptist Association of Nova Scotia
Celebrate 172 years of faith and fellowship at the Annual Sessions hosted by East Preston United Baptist Church. Expect inspiring speakers, music, and community connection.
Every Friday in August – Orenda Canoe Club Regatta
Join the fun at the Orenda Canoe Club’s internal regatta!
Fridays | 1:00–4:00 PM
Open to all—no experience needed. Come paddle, cheer, or just enjoy the vibe!
Just For Fun!
Community games and puzzles
Find the following words in this word search:
(Please print out the word search!)
COMMUNITY CENTRE
NORTH PRESTON
EAST PRESTON
CHERRY BROOK
LEGISLATURE
MINEVILLE DARTMOUTH
LAKE ECHO
MONTAGUE
WESTPHAL
ELECTION
LAKE LOON
GATEWAY
ORENDA
MI'KMAQ
MLA
Connect With MLA Grosse
Reach Out Anytime
Serving Preston with Heart & Purpose
“My commitment is to listen, to serve, and to stand with the people of Preston. Together, we build stronger communities—one conversation, one connection at a time.”
— Twila Grosse, MLA for Preston
Constituency Office
MLA Twila Grosse
Constituency of Preston
18 Wilfred Jackson Way, Suite #210
Dartmouth, Nova Scotia
B2Z 1A8
Office Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM
Contact Information
Email: mlatwilagrosse@gmail.com
Phone: 902-377-3299
Fax: 902-377-3307
Stay Connected Online
Website: twilagrosse.ca
Facebook: www.facebookcom/mlatwilagrosse
Invite MLA Twila Grosse to Your Event
Planning a community celebration, school function, or local initiative? MLA Grosse welcomes invitations to connect with constituents and support local events. Reach out anytime to extend an invitation!
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