There are times when life has been downright cruel to Rebecca Lombardo. Her emotional, mental, and physical fortitude have been tested more than once. But there’s an innate quality in Lombardo that helps her weather storms, move mountains, and press on.

Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) will be waiving tuition for those who have spent time in foster care. The Post-Care Free Tuition Program will cover up to 100% of tuition and fees.

Nova Scotia’s forestry transition team has approved the first three projects to benefit from the province’s $50-million innovation fund, established after the closure of Northern Pulp. NSCC is receiving a one-year commitment of funding, for a potentially multi-year project of up to $2 million, to administer a new voucher program.

A one-stop shop for local handmade goods. Pictou County’s Handmade Boutique on Westville Road is currently home to 50 vendors. 

On Wednesday, Ray Ivany, former Acadia University president and chair of the economic commission that penned Now or Never: An Urgent Call to Nova Scotians that is also often referred to as the Ivany Report, was named as a member of the Order of Canada.

A new officer is on the beat in the Town of Amherst. Cameron Baker began patrolling the town as a part-time constable on Dec. 17. He is filling a vacancy created by the departure of Const. Destiny Merriam.