Paul Portelli, a sculptor and gallery owner, has worked with several communities on becoming an ‘art-designated’ town. Along with Paul’s educational background in the arts and commerce, his years as an artist and business person and his work with the Warkworth Business Association team, in Warkworth, Ontario, helped to bring a fading community back to life but also illuminated the place as a recognized art destination, in Northumberland County.

Eric Stackhouse is Chief Librarian of the Pictou-Antigonish Regional Library. He has worked in libraries for over 40 years and has a strong passion for the role libraries can play in community development. Another passion is placemaking, having been involved for over 20 years now. Eric has received numerous awards, including the Norman Horrocks Award for Library Leadership and the CAPL Outstanding Public Library Service Award.

Born and raised in our coastal community, Michelle’s upbringing instilled in her an appreciation for Pictou’s rich heritage and strong community spirit. Over the past eighteen years she has worked for the Town of Pictou in several capacities, more recently as the Town’s Community Development Officer. In her current position, she is responsible for initiating and coordinating various projects, programs, and initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of life for residents, promoting economic development, and preserving the town’s cultural heritage. Michelle serves on various boards including Atlantic Canada Cruise Association representing the small ports of Atlantic Canada and promoting Pictou County as a cruise destination.