A deep love for Shubie Park has local businessman Rodney Habib planning one of the biggest celebrations ever held in the park.
On Dec. 10 from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. the first annual tree lighting event will be held in front of the Fairbanks Center.
But this tree lighting will not only be held for families, but is also promoting itself as a feel good event for pets and the park itself.
"There have been incidents within the park that have not been good," said Habib. "But in talking with the community I have found out how much people do love Shubie Park. This is an opportunity to create a very positive tradition."
Hosted by Habib's business Planet Paws, Coun. Darren Fisher, MLA Andrew Younger and park director Allan Billard, this tree lighting will be the
only one of its kind in metro, because dogs and other fur friends are being especially invited to watch the tree lighting too.
Habib wants families to bring their pets.
At the tree lighting, dogs will be able to enjoy Shubie Snacks, the dog cookies Habib sells from Plant Paws. Proceeds from the sale of these
treats go to the upkeep and preservation of Shubie Park.
Also at the event, three 11 year-old-girl, owners of a company called "Love N Leashes" will be selling dog bandanas and leashes for
the Bide Awhile Animal Shelter.
Tim Horton's will be providing free hot chocolate, choirs from Ian Forsyth, Michael Wallace and Admiral Westphal Schools will be entertaining the crowd and the First Port Wallace Venturer Company will be supervising the fire pit where they will be roasting marshmallows.
Habib would like people to bring donations to the food bank and said the
SPCA will be there as well with their adoptable pets.
Planet Paws has been busy over the past few months adding their special touch to Shubie Park. They have helped to build a doggie gazebo, three benches and all the mapboards in the park.
The family have also contributed to local schools. He estimates they have given close to $300,000 in total to local causes over the past 10 years.
Bernie Hart of the Shubenacadie Canal Commission said each new event in the park brings a new audience.
"This is a very important 150th anniversary for Shubie Park, recreating the event on the water of the first complete voyage of a vessel from the harbour to Maitland on the Bay of Fundy," said Hart. "So we appreciate the publicity."
Younger said many people have different reasons to enjoy the park.
"And so many people take a special ownership of the park," he said. "This is the very first year this event has occurred so everyone involved, including me, is trying to help in any way we can to make this a success."
Younger said he will be a part of setting up and getting the lights up on the tree.
Councillor Darren Fisher will also be involved in the tree lighting.
"The love people have for Shubie is unbelievable," he said. "This is going to be a great annual event and all will be welcome."
