In episode 18 of *The Record*, Nova Scotia Lieutenant Governor Arthur J. LeBlanc spoke with Civic Journalist Jake Boudrot during a recent visit to Isle Madame, where he conferred the 2024 Lieutenant Governor’s Community Spirit Award.

LeBlanc shared his deep connection to Isle Madame, reflecting on his upbringing in West Arichat. After being educated locally, he attended St. Francis Xavier University, where he earned a Bachelor of Commerce degree, followed by studying law at Dalhousie University. 

He then recounted his career, running a law firm in the Strait region before being appointed a Provincial Court Judge in 1998. LeBlanc expressed how meaningful it was for him to return to Isle Madame and how proud he was to honour his hometown with the prestigious Community Spirit Award.

On August 31, LeBlanc presented the award at the D’Escousse Civic Improvement Society Hall. The award, which celebrates the power, strength, and diversity of vibrant communities across Nova Scotia, is given annually by the Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism, and Heritage. Isle Madame was one of four communities selected to receive this honour.

The event organizers noted that Isle Madame’s nomination highlighted its strong community spirit, characterized by a fierce work ethic, collaboration on large projects, and high levels of participation in local initiatives. These qualities made Isle Madame a deserving recipient of the award.

Richmond County’s Volunteer of the Year, Ronnie LeBlanc, accepted the award on behalf of the residents of Isle Madame. 

“Our local businesses survive because of volunteers bringing events to our island: ATV runs, Acadian festivals, motorbike rallies, yacht club festivals, Celtic Colours concerts, baseball events, and many more,” LeBlanc said. “Communities working together, cultures working together, everyone helping each other. Isle Madame is such a great place to live, raise a family, do business, and visit. We are so lucky to live here! Thank you to all the volunteers who give their time to help each other. I was humbled to accept the Lieutenant Governor’s Community Spirit Award on behalf of all volunteers on Isle Madame.”

The event was emceed by community volunteer and retired educator David Forgeron. Guest speakers included Richmond MLA Trevor Boudreau, representing the Department of Communities, Culture, Tourism, and Heritage, and Rochelle Heudes, President of La Picasse, Centre Communautaire Culturel.