Jean Laroche
@nsnewsh0und
Retired after almost 40 years chasing news. Equal parts passionate, despondent about politics today and the state of our democracy. Like Bruce Cockburn, I believe you've "got to kick at the darkness 'til it bleeds daylight."
Rather than write one, which I have on good authority is a ton of work, I plan to be a “living book”. @plaineagle.bsky.social and I will be two of about a dozen people you can “borrow” for a conversation. Should be fun, maybe a bit scary. #halifaxpubliclibrary #livingbooks
Start of the weekend sucked. But this chance encounter with @joshjohnsoncomedy.bsky.social helped raise spirits. He was also Canadian level nice.
Nine Locks, you’ve done it again. Best cream ale ever! You magnificent bastards!
Need some relief from, and hope for the times we’re living? Go see Neptune Theatre’s Rent. The most powerful and moving tribute to the power of love I’ve ever seen. The cast is is spectacular. The production is marvellous. Congrats to the whole Neptune team for this timely tour-de-force.
Saddened to hear that former Digby MLA Harold Jr Theriault has died. During my 30 years at Province House, he was one of the most genuine, caring and honest politicians I ever met. He also had an endless storehouse of stories, bad jokes and witty asides. Condolences to all those who loved junior.
Saddened by the sudden death of Michael Haynes. He was a hiking God in Nova Scotia and his books guided me and my family on so many adventures. Your advocacy and love of the woods will live on, Mike. Two favourites. If you don’t already have a copy, I’d recommend getting them.
With all due respect to Barkhouse, this is a bad decision, a terrible look for the legislature and sets a dangerous precedent. Things were a lot worse in 1994 when angry Cape Breton construction workers stormed the legislature and prevented the Savage government from tabling a budget.
Being able to buttonhole a politician is an effective way to enact change. I saw it myself in September 2024 when two women stopped Tim Houston on his way out of the chamber. That brief exchange had Houston reverse course on declaring intimate partner violence an epidemic.
Over the years security at Province House has been beefed up considerably. There are security cameras throughout the building and outside the legislature. The place even has its own police force now. This is clearly an attempt to shield government members from being questioned or criticized.
The Speaker of the NS House of Assembly Danielle Barkhouse is restricting access to the second floor of Province House "to make sure that we have a safe environment for all MLAs". The new rule comes just a day after cabinet minister Twila Grosse was questioned by a group of unhappy constituents.
Premier Tim Houston calls yesterday's protest by Nova Scotia's arts community a "Raise your taxes" rally "organized by the NDP". From the man who says he listens. Doesn't seem to have heard much yesterday.
Pissing off the arts and culture community always spurs the creative protest juices.
Another reason to be skeptical of AI. Ill continue to champion access to information from the sidelines but this is my image on someone else’s job.
Bluebird day at Ski Martock. Taking advantage of the calm before the storm. @ryansnoddon.bsky.social
Mahone Bay is Nova Scotia’s Hallmark Christmas town this time of year. Someone needs to write a love story with the Barn as a central locale.
Back in my winter happy place - Martock. Opening before the holidays is a Christmas miracle.
Here in Dartmouth some of us are nervited (nervously excited) about tomorrow’s start to the 2025-26 Martock ski season! Come play in the snow this winter! Sure beats grumbling about the snow and cold.
Hub Grub in Truro has the best burgers and fries in NS! If you haven’t tried it yet, you should. Your tummy will thank you. That is all.
@clairecameron.bsky.social “Devoured” your book this weekend after the conversation we had in Halifax on Friday afternoon. Great read! I’ll be sending a copy to my brother in Quebec who is also wrestling with cancer. Loved your final thoughts on living and love.
Former reporters (except Jennifer Henderson who’s still at it) gather at Province House to help celebrate the storied career of CP reporter Keith Doucette. It’s his last legislative sitting. Retirement awaits at the end of the month. Welcome to the club mon ami.
Humbled to be awarded a lifetime achievement award from @rtdna.bsky.social Glad to share the spotlight with my former CBC colleagues showing off the haul from CBC in NB, PEI and NS.
I'll be moderating a panel on aging and ageism on October 6th at the Halifax Central Library. I hope you can join me and a very knowledgeable group of women. Here are the details.
Film-maker Reid Davenport has delivered an important and thought provoking examination of Canada’s medical assistance in dying law. Must view for anyone seeking or in public office, as well as anyone who develops policy.
Cape Breton celebrity sighting at the Atlantic International Film Festival. Star struck!
Just saw this wonderful film at the Atlantic film fest. Well written, superbly acted piece of cinema with a lot to say about love and the power of writing. Highly recommend it.
Happy 34th Anniversaire to this lovely human. Travel companion, hiking buddy and amazing partner in crime. I can’t imagine anyone putting up with me as long as you have.
Not so much breathtaking but I’m partial to small town elevators and the love this towns and villages have for them. This one is in a Saskatchewan town of 120.