It’s not just another Wordpress blog. Ignite the Spirit, the newly launched blog and website for the Central Nova Scotia Civic Centre Project, brings awareness and progress updates on the build of this highly anticipated facility. The centre is expected to house a 3,200-seat event venue, an NHL-sized ice pad, three-lane walking and jogging track, pool, fitness and wellness centre, rock climbing and more. The aim of the new blog is to communicate with the Truro community, whether it be an upcoming event, recognition of the projects’ partners or conveying ways people can get involved. The facility isn’t due to open until Fall 2012, but instead of leaving everyone in the dark on its development, we have opened the door to ongoing discussions through the blog and the use of social media.

Creating a Facebook fan page was the next obvious step. Not only are fan pages a great way to gather support and get people talking, but also a gratifying response to a previously popular Facebook group called “BUILD TRURO A CIVIC CENTRE.” The demand has been addressed in the land of social media. The page has quickly gained popularity, drawing more than 50 fans within just two days of being published. The fan page will be frequently updated to publicize fundraising events, construction photos, community meetings and more. A Twitter feed is also in the cards to further inform and engage the community, which will soon be accessible on the website.

The overall mission we are trying to achieve of having a great online presence is: more buzz, more support, more progress. I think all of Truro can agree to that!

Jessica Clarke is a lifer — born and raised in Halifax. After attaining her web development diploma from NSCC, she gained valuable experience working in the online gaming industry and for a web design agency. Working as a designer for three years, Jessica has come to specialize in interactive design. Jessica is always researching the latest trends in web design, blogging and social media and enjoys honing her ever-growing skill set. In her free time, Jessica participates in graphic design competitions, dabbles in interior design, keeps up to date with celebrity blogs and works on her poker face.