Farm Market Guidelines

A draft policy on guidelines for farm markets is lacking in clarity according to Region of Queens Mayor John Leefe . He says Council has expressed its concerns over the draft regulations. Leefe says the draft regulations unlike the current ones in effect only allow for two days a week for a public market. He says in some instances vendors who are permitted by the Department of Agriculture can access the public or farm market up to seven days a week. Leefe say the policy is quite confusing. Representatives from the Department of Agriculture met with Council last week and will incorporate some of the suggested changes in the new policy..

Acting CEO continues into New Year

Alice Leverman will continue as acting CEO of South Shore Health into the new year. Hospital Board Chair Roxie Smith says the Board hasn't had time to meet to discuss the process in moving forward. Former CEO Kevin (Mac-Na-mare-a) took a leave of absence in July to take on the acting deputy-ministers role at the request of Premier Darrell Dexter . He was permanently appointed to the position earlier this month.

Post Office Settlement

It's been ongoing for a couple of years but in a David against Goliath tppe of battle, Scott Sherman sued Canada Post for breaking a lease agreement. Sherman, the Boston based businessman purchased the former Lunenburg property in Old Town in 2003. The building on King Street housed the local post office since 1882. The Post Office moved to a Lincoln Street location and Sherman launched legal action against the Crown corporation for certain lease violations. He alleged Canada Post removed items, did damage to the premises while they occupied the space and that there were monetary damages incurred because of their actions. Sherman says a trial had been scheduled, but a settlement conference was held December 8th and the parties were able to hammer out an agreement. He wouldn't give an exact figure but says it was enough to purchase an automobile..maybe a Chevy or a Mazaratti. Sherman says in all his current commercial dealings he would never again rent to Canada Post. Genevieve Latour, Canada Post's Atlantic communications manager says she couldn't comment because the matter has not been completely resolved in the court system.

MICHELIN CLOSES DOWN DUE TO OIL SPILL

Specialists have been called to the LaHave river to investigate an oil spill that came from the Bridgewater Michelin plant last night.Crews are currently on site cleaning up the spill of bunker sea oil that is used to run the boilers at the plant.The spill was minor and isn't harmful but an investigation into the matter is currently ongoing and the plant will be shut down until further notice.

Seafood Producers Get Funding

Businesses in Lunenburg, Shelburne and Yarmouth Counties among those to receive provincial funding to help the seafood industry improve its competitiveness in the global marketplace. Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Sterling Belliveau announced today more than 310-thousand-dollars for seafood processors to diversify markets, improve productivity, and assess lobster fishing areas. The investment is part of 3.75-million-dollars in seafood Cedar Bay Grilling Company of Blandford, Seastar Seafoods of Clarks Harbour and Nova Scotia Fish Packers of Yarmouth will use the funding to enhance productivity and for market diversification and technology.

SOUTH SHORE HEALTH WELCOMES NEW FAMILY PHYSICIAN

A new physician is being welcomed to South Shore Health. Dr. Ryan Finnamore, a graduate from Dalhousie University's medical program in 2004 will be located at the Chester Family Practice where he has been providing part-time coverage since 2006.
Dr. Finnamore will be accepting new patients beginning in the New Year. Priority will be given to patients who do not have a family doctor or nurse practitioners and those who are travelling outside the area and want to transfer back to the local practice.

New I-phone app for CKBW

If you're on the receiving end of a new iPod Touch or iPhone this Christmas -- you will be able to take along CKBW where ever you go. Our parent company - Acadia Broadcasting - has just launched a new app that allows you to listen to our station on your new smart phone or iPod. And soon the leading edge technology will also allow you to see the name of the current song and artist as well as the previous ten songs. You can get the free app by going to our web site at www.ckbw.ca and clicking on the iPhone - iPod button.Blackberry users aren't being left out in the cold - a similar app for their phones is currently in the development stage

Save the CAT

The Region of Queens adding its collective voice to save the CAT. MLA Vicki Conrad, says she'll take the municipalities concerns back to the government. However, she says the cancellation of the ferry service between Yarmouth and Maine was not a total surprise. Conrad says in past meetings with Bay Ferries it's not new knowledge that the company had been struggling to stay viable. Conrad says the NDP will be looking at alternative transportation solutions to the ferry link. She says various stakeholders will be meeting with the Premier on Wednesday to discuss the matter. Bay Ferries announced last week the high speed ferry service isn't longer financially viable and is being dropped next spring putting 120 people out of work.

Community Christmas

The countdown is on but for many Christmas Day can be a lonely one. Recognizing that fact, two Lunenburg Town Councillors came up with a plan for a Community Christmas. The first one last year was a learning curve. Peter Zwicker says this year they've worked on a few changes. Along with a Christmas dinner, there's entertainment and transportation is being provided. Zwicker says there is limited seating at the Lunenburg Fire Hall for 150 but there are still tickets available at Fultons Drug Store . Meantime, the Town of Bridgewater is hosting its first Community Christmas this year. The event is set for one o'clock Christmas Day at the Bridgewater High School.

Overcrowding at South Shore ER

South Shore Health is dealing with overcrowding at its Emergency Department on a daily basis. Acting CEO Alice Leverman says it's a struggle. Some days there are people admitted and no beds. She says there have been stretchers in the hallways and people have waited for up to three days for a bed. Leverman says patient care has not been compromised as quality care is job one. Nursing staff and doctors are continually assessing patient needs, but she says there is a lot of frustration among staff and on the part of families and patients. She says they are looking for some relief with the opening of new long term care beds. 65 of those will be operated by Shannex in Bridgewater this May, while there are also beds opening in Lunenburg, New Germany and New Ross.

South Shore Health's Board Chair steps down

The Chair of South Shore Health's Board of Directors is stepping aside after nine years at the helm. Roxie Smith of Lunenburg has chaired the Board since the creation of the district health authorities in 2001. Her current term expired in September, however, she will remain in the potion until her successor is appointed by the Minister of Health. Smith announced her decision to the Board at the regular monthly meeting on December 18th. Smith says she will probably continue to serve in some health related capacity such as maybe on a task force.

11th day tip from RCMP

"On the Eleventh Day of Christmas Crime Prevention the RCMP told me..... learn about the RCMP Victim Services programs within your community.
Julia Rustad, Program Manager for RCMP Victim Services reminds citizens of the following tips for people after they have been the victim of a crime:
RCMP Victim Services in Nova Scotia is available to people who have experienced a crime such as break and enters, intimate partner violence, serious motor vehicle accidents and fraud.
The RCMP Victim Service Program is a police based program where victims of crime receive information, emotional support and referral from volunteers trained and working under the direction of the RCMP.
The volunteers receive referrals from police officers when there has been a crime committed or a tragedy occurs. RCMP volunteers have several resources in order to do their job, some of which are crime prevention tips, a list of community resources and safety plans for victims of intimate partner violence.

H1N1 Vaccinaion Clinic

Area residents will still have a couple of chances this month to get their H-1-N-1 vaccine. South Shore Public Health says residents can book an appointment today from 10am until 4, as well Tuesday December 22nd or Tuesday December 29th at the Bridgewater office in the Gateway Plaza. To book an appointment call 543-0850. To date it's estimated that more than half of the residents in the South Shore Health District have been vaccinated.

Roundabout adopted

Bridgewater Town Council has confirmed the acceptance of a proposed modern roundabout for the intersection of Aberdeen Road and North Street. It's been determined the roundabout is the way to go as a more efficient and effective as well as safer manner to configure the intersection. Additional land will have to be purchased to accommodate a second lane for left turns to North Street. Agreements are being prepared to purchase adjacent properties . The proposal for a roundabout was first discussed at a public meeting last January.

New Germany House Fire

A family in New Germany is homeless after a fire claimed their home. A mother, her adult son and five-year-old grandson were not home the time the fire broke out.The Canadian Red Cross says they're currently staying with extended family for now.Donations to help the family can be made through the red cross or by calling the New Germany Lions Club.

H1N1 Vaccination Clinic (Thursday, 17th)

Nova Scotia's chief public health officer says the second wave of the H-1-N-1 outbreak appears to be over. Although there are no new lab-confirmed cases or hospitalizations related to the virus, Dr. Robert Strang says there are still unofficial reports of the flu around the province. And with the possibility of a third wave in the new year, he continues to urge people to get vaccinated.There will be a vaccination clinic today from 3 until 7 at the public health offices in New Germany, Chester, Lunenburg and Liverpool. Appointments are necessary and can be made by calling 543-0850.

H1N1 Clinic

There will be an H1N1 Vaccination Clinic today from 1-6pm at the Nova Scotia Community College, in Bridgewater.
Adults & Students are reminded to bring their health card with them, no appointment is necessary.

Red Cross assists after South Shore Fire

A mother, her adult son and five-year-old grandson are temporarily homeless after a fire last night destroyed the house they rented in New Germany, Nova Scotia, about 25 kilometres northwest of Bridgewater.
They weren't home at the time so there were no injuries. The Canadian Red Cross says they're staying with extended family for now. One its volunteers will meet with them today to determine any emergency needs.
The cause of the fire, at 5249 Trunk 10, is under investigation.

8th Day of RCMP Christmas Tips

On the eighth day of Christmas the RCMP said to me…buckle up and ensure your seat belt is worn correctly.
S/Sgt. Dan McNaughton, RCMP Traffic Services says, "A properly worn seat belt is key to surviving a motor vehicle crash or collision.
Vehicle operators should also ensure that children are secured in the appropriate car or booster seat."
Before heading out on the road this holiday season, vehicle operators and passengers should note the following:
● It is mandatory that drivers in Nova Scotia wear a seat belt. If
you are caught driving without your seat belt on, you will get 2 points
(demerits) on your licence.
● Seat belts must be maintained in good working order and not
altered in anyway as this can reduce their effectiveness.
● Air bags do not take the place of a seat belt.
● Only one person to a seat belt.
● Young children must be in approved "child restraint system" car
seats suitable for their age, height, or weight.
● Wearing your seat belt properly will dramatically increase your
chance of surviving a motor vehicle collision.
● For every one per cent increase in seat belt usage, five lives
in Canada are saved (Source: Transport Canada).
The RCMP is committed to making Canadian roadways the safest in the world under the Road Safety Vision 2010 and is asking all road users to ensure they do their part to help keep Nova Scotia’s road and highways safe this holiday season.

Beware of Slippery Roads

Members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Halifax District are advising motorist that the highways and roads are becoming very slippery and black ice is forming as the temperature starts to drop.
RCMP would like to remind the public that winter driving conditions are upon us and drivers need to use caution when travelling on the roads and highways. Remember to reduce your speed to weather conditions, maintain a safe following distance, be on the look out for potential hazards. Slow down and take your time while traveling and get to your destination safely.

Man struck by car in Blockhouse

A 56 yr old male is in serious condition after being struck by a vehicle on Hwy 324 in Blockhouse yesterday afternoon.According to the investigation the man stepped out onto the road without looking both ways. The man when trasported to South Shorth Regional Hospital then onto the QE 2 in Halifax.The occupants of the car were transported to Fisherman's Hospital for shock sumptoms. The road conditions were wet pavement and fog at the time of the accident.

Visitor Information Kiosks Coming

Bridgewater Town Council has approved the site of the former VIC off Aberdeen Road and the Centennial Trail Parking Lot off Victoria Road as locations for the installation of two Visitor Information Kiosks. Thirteen of the kiosks will be located between Bridgewater and Peggy's Cove. Half the funding for the construction and installation of the kiosks is being provided through the province's Visitor Information Services Enhancement Program as a cost effective alternative to a staffed visitor information centre. Mayor Carroll Publicover says its a short term solution but he would like to see a partnership of neighbouring units to construct a regional tourist bureau that would be fully staffed.

Active Transportation

The Town of Bridgewater has received provincial funding to continue its efforts to become a leading active transportation friendly community. An action plan was approved last June and in recent months the Active Transportation Committee has developed a multi year public engagement action plan. Provincial funding of 25 thousand dollars has been approved for the three year initiative. As part of the funding arrangement, Town Council pre-approved funding for the next two fiscal years of 5 thousand in cash, and 5 thousand in-kind.

Campaign 911

A campaign to prevent impaired drivers from being on the roads was launched today. Campaign 911 encourages and empowers Nova Scotians to call 911 to report a suspected impaired driver. Bill Estabrooks, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal, joined Margaret Miller, president of MADD Canada, and law enforcement officials to launch the Campaign which was introduced by MADD Canada in 2007 and now has programs in nine provinces. Effective 911 programs increase impaired driving arrest rates by up to 50 per cent.

7th Day RCMP Tip

On the Seventh Day of Christmas Crime Prevention the RCMP Street Crime Unit said to me..... "When leaving your house empty, protect your valuables from a potential robbery."

Many of us take vacation during the holidays, leaving our homes unattended for an extended period of time. Before you leave consider the following . . .

● Can you look inside your window and see expensive items? Keep
valuables out of view and keep blinds and drapes closed when you’re not home. Don’t hang keys in the home where they are visible through windows.
● Keep valuable belongings (jewellery, papers, certificates, etc.)
out of sight. If possible, keep them in a safety deposit box away from home. Other valuables should be engraved with your name and phone number which will help police identify your property.
● Consider recording the serial number of valuable items and
taking photos of these items, note any identifiable markings.
● Arrange to have a trusted friend or family member check your
residence while you are away. Ask them to collect your mail and newspapers, clear snow from your doorway to make it appear someone is home.
● Consider Forming a Neighbourhood Watch group. Take note of any
suspicious people or vehicles in your neighbourhood.
● Consider an alarm, notification system or timers for lighting
and electronics.

Oxfam Protest

Oxfam Canada and Ecology Action Centre are hoping MP Gerald Keddy gets the message after they display a giant mock oil barrel at his office today to let him know they want him to tell the South Shore MP and his Conservative colleagues that it's time for an oil change.Group members and area residents plan to gather at Keddy's office on Aberdeen Road at one o'clock this afternoon to deliver the 15 foot oil barrel and sing a few modified "Climate Carols".The stunt is part of thousands of events planned in hundreds of countries as part of “The World Wants a Real Deal”campaign to urge world leaders to take bold and immediate steps to sign a binding climate deal in Copenhagen.

Campaign 911 launches today

The launch Campaign 911 will be launch today at 10am. Bill Estabrooks, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal, will join Margaret Miller, president of MADD Canada, and law enforcement officials to launch the Campaign 911 which encourages and empowers Nova Scotians to call 911 to report a suspected impaired driver.

New Apartment Complex Approved

A major housing development for the Town of Bridgewater is another step closer. Town Council approved a proposed development agreement to construct 5 three-story apartment buildings at Jubilee Road and Exhibition Drive. Mayor Carroll Publicover says the phased-in project will be a major development for the West side of the town. The proposal calls for 27 units in each of the five buildings with the first building to be constructed early next spring. The project will be phased in over a five year period.

Regional Transit Service

The Town of Bridgewater has agreed to continue its collaborative efforts towards developing a regional transit operation. Mayor Carroll Publicover says Council approved a motion to proceed with a detailed routing analysis, governance and costs, based on Model D over the next six months.Funding has been allocated through the Transit Rural Incentive Program with costs to be shared equitable between the partner units of Mahone Bay, Lunenburg, and the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg. The Joint Transit Committee has been asked to provide a progress update on implementation planning within the next six months.

Message for MP Keddy

They're hoping MP Gerald Keddy gets the message. Oxfam Canada and Ecology Action Centre will be using a giant mock oil barrel to tell the South Shore MP and his Conservative colleagues that it's time for an oil change. Group members and area residents will gather at Keddy's office on Aberdeen Road at one o'clock this afternoon to deliver the 15 foot oil barrel and sing a few modified "Climate Carols". The stunt is part of thousands of events planned in hundreds of countries as part of “The World Wants a Real Deal”campaign to urge world leaders to take bold and immediate steps to sign a binding climate deal in Copenhagen.

Woman hit in Rosebay

A 68 yr old lady is currently in serious condition after being hit by an on coming vehicle last night in the Rosebay area.Around 7 o'clock last night the woman was crossing the road when she was struck, she was then taken by ambulance to the South Shore Regional hospital and then air lifted to the Queen Elizabeth II .The investigation into the matter is currently ongoing but police say they have ruled out alcohol as not being a factor.

6th day of Christmas tip

On the Sixth Day of Christmas Crime Prevention the RCMP said to me, "When purchasing gifts on line make sure you protect your identity."

- Shop only from your home computer - it’s much safer than shopping at a terminal.
- Use different user ID and passwords for different accounts
- Go directly to a store’s website by manually typing its address into your web browser. Don’t click on links in an e-mail message even if you know who sent it.
- Verify secure connections. When shopping on-line, do not enter any financial information if you see a broken-key or open padlock symbol on your Internet browser. This means the transaction is not secure and could be intercepted by a third party. When the key is complete or the padlock is locked, your browser is indicating a secure transaction.
- Consider using a company acting as escrow (reliable third party), a credit card with a low credit limit or a single use payment card.
- Unlike secure order forms on a web site, e-mail messages are not private. Do not send confidential personal or financial information by e-mail.
- Avoid spam (unsolicited marketing e-mail) by being careful about disclosing your e-mail address both on and off-line.
- Monitor your bank and credit card and statements on-line. Electronic statements allow you to review your purchases and payments as they happen rather than waiting until the end of the month to review your paper statement.
- Immediately report any discrepancies to your bank or to the company that issued the credit card.

Thinkwell Research survey results for NS

The results are in from a Thinkwell Research survey, and it appears that Nova Scotians are feeling less optimistic about the direction of the provincial economy than they were in earlier this fall.
According to the survey, less than one in three Nova Scotians believe that the Nova Scotia economy will get stronger over the next six months, down 9 points since September.
These results are consistent with national trends. According to the Conference Board of Canada, consumer confidence in Canada fell in October and November, after increasing steadily through the summer months and into September.

Truro rink gets funding

The Colchester Legion Stadium will be getting a makeover thanks to funding from the Atlantic Canada Opportunity Agency Recreational Infrastructure Canada program.
The Colchester Legion Stadium and the Town of Truro will benefit from more than 855,000 dollars in funding from the ACOA program.
The Honourable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway, said “This investment reflects the goals of our government’s Economic Action Plan by continuing to provide timely and targeted stimulus to communities across the country.”

Climate Change in Bridgewater.

Climate Change is the topic of a candlelight vigil which is going to be held tonight in Bridgewater outside of Gerald Keddy's office. A group of concerned individuals are hoping to send the message they support all efforts on an ambitious, fair and binding global agreement on climate change. Environment ministers from 192 countries are attending the UN climate conference in Copenhagen this weekend. Today they will be taking a close look at a draft agreement.

5th Christmas tip

It's the 5th day of chirstmas tips from the RCMP..todays tip says"Parties and gatherings can be great but don’t trust anyone with your drinks; not even your date."
The holiday season can be a stressful time for many people and the RCMP is are helping out with friendly reminders to make your holidays safe and fun.
For more information check out our website at CKBW.ca and click on the news link.

H1N1 Clinic

The week of Dec. 14-18 is the last for mass vaccination clinics. South Shore Health’s Public Health team are putting on a drop-in clinic, and three chances to make appointments for shots at a public health office.
“We encourage people who have been putting off getting the H1N1 vaccine to get out this coming week and get the shot,” said Communicable Disease Prevention and Control Manager Lori McCracken. “Consider the protection a vaccination provides as a holiday gift to yourself or a loved one.”

To make an appointment call: 543-0850

Clincs Wind Down

H1N1 Vaccination Clinics on the South Shore will begin winding down starting Monday. The week of December. 14-18 is the last for mass vaccination clinics. South Shore Health's Public Health team are putting on a drop-in clinic, and three chances to make appointments for shots at a public health office. Appointments must be booked through the Bridgewater Public Health Office at 543-0850. Remember to take along your health card and do not attend any clinics if you are ill.

Candlelight Vigil Planned

Local citizens will show their support for a climate change agreement by staging a candlelight vigil outside MP Gerald Keddy's office this weekend.A group of local concerned citizens from across the South Shore will light candles, sing songs, and send a message that the South Shore supports all efforts for an ambitious, fair, and binding global agreement on climate change at the Copenhagen negotiations. The vigil is set for Saturday, December 12th from 5:30 to 6:00pm at the Aberdeen Commercial Centre, 129 Aberdeen Road.

H1N1 clinic

A 3rd wave of the H1N1 could still be in the future and Nova Scotia's chief public health officer Dr. Robert Strang is encouraging people who have not yet been vaccinated to do so immedatiely. So far about 52 per cent of the province's population has been vaccinated.A Vaccination clinic will be held today at the Park View Education Center in Bridgewater from 4 until 6:30. Students & Adults are reminded to bring with them their health cards to the clinics.

Home fire in Lunenburg

A major fire broke out yesterday at a house in the town of Lunenburg.The house burst into flames around 2:30 yesterday afternoon and continued on until 7:30 last night. Firefighters were also fighing the elements of mother nature as snow and rain moved in. Fire departments from Dayspring, Blockhouse, Mahone Bay and Bridgewater were called for back-up to assist the Lunenburg Fire Department.

Bus' only traveling on paved roads

Due to weather conditions only students who live on paved roads in the South Shore Regional district will be picked up by buses.

Lunenburg Fire

Firefighters from at least five departments were still on the scene of a major house fire in the Town of Lunenburg at 7:30 Wednesday night. The blaze started around 2:30 in the afternoon and had fully engulfed the house at 201 York Street. Firefighters were also fighting the elements as a mix of snow and rain had moved into the area and winds with gusts to 100 kilometers were expected. Fire departments from Dayspring, Blockhouse, Mahone Bay and Bridgewater were called for back-up to assist the Lunenburg Fire Department.

Marine Park Stalled

The Municipality of Lunenburg has given permission to the United Communities Marine Park Society to spend up to 35 hundred of their budget allotment of 16 thousand for their proposed project. Phase one of the project has already been approved by Council in total but it could not be funded at the provincial level during this fiscal year. Despite that fact, due to the quality of the project and the support of the community, the volunteers persevere. Council felt the financial commitment associated with the request was relatively small, yet would make a worthy show of support to the United Communities Marine Park Society and their efforts in this project.

Yacht Club Grant

A recommendation to award the Lunenburg Yacht Club a grant of almost 175 thousand dollars from the Designated Community Fund has been approved by Lunenburg Municipal Council. At the request of the Yacht Club, Council created the Designated Community Project Fund Policy and it was adopted in April of this year. The money from donations is being used by the Yacht Club to purchase a neighbouring property to be used for future development of the club to increase its services.

Zoning Request Denied

A request to amend the Princess Inlet Land Use By-law has been denied by Lunenburg Municipal Council. Harley and Eileen Eisener requested the requirement for lot frontage to be reduced to allow for the subdivision of their property. A proposal was put forward to create an Ocean Shoreline Zone which would accommodate their request and allow other residents the same opportunity. However, it was made very clear at a public hearing the majority of the residents were opposed to the zoning change. Council unanimously refused the Eisener's request although the Area Advisory Committee can review the matter further.

Outdoor Wood Furnace Denied

A variance request to reduce the setback requirements to install an outdoor wood furnace in Riverport has been denied by Lunenburg Municipal Council. Area Councillor Don Zwicker says despite new technology they had to make their decision using the current land use bylaw. Zwicker says the applicant has other options such as electricity or oil. The applicant requested a reduction to the yard setbacks from 125 feet to 10 feet on one side. The applicant, Diego Medina can also ask the Area Advisory Committee to consider an amendment to the currentLand Use By-law.

Regional Transit Possible

Efforts are continuing towards developing a regional transit operation for Lunenburg County. Mayor Don Downe of the Municipality of Lunenburg says the partner units are assessing the associated costs.Downe says they'll be taking incremental steps in regards to knowing what the route mechanism will be, the cost and size of application to run. He says the idea of Transit is good from a number of fronts..such as environmental and access point of view.

Shoplifter Sentenced

A confrontation with police outside the Cookville Wal-Mart last December has resulted in a year on probation for a 19 year old. Luke Matthew Robar of Springfield pled guilty to resisting arrest and one count of shoplifting while two other charges of assaulting police and theft were withdrawn. The incident happened last December 17th when police responded to a complaint of shoplifting. Robar along with two other teens got into a fracas with the officers outside the store. The three officers sustained minor injuries in the scuffle.

South Shore Schools Pass Accreditation

Two more South Shore schools have been awarded accreditation under the provincial government's school improvement program.Liverpool Regional High School and Lunenburg Junior/Senior High School join New Ross Consolidated, Forest Heights , Dr. J.C. Wickwire Academy and Park View Education Centre in receiving provincial recognition for their work in setting higher standards, increasing student achievement and improving overall performance. Eight schools - including Dr. J.C. Wickwire - were selected to pilot the Nova Scotia Accreditation Program in 2002. Since then, the number of schools participating in the province-wide program has been gradually increased. It will be mandatory for all Nova Scotia schools in 2010.

Rural Mail Study Complete

The rural mailbox safety review for Bridgewater and surrounding areas is now complete. Canada Post says they have assessed all mailboxes in the local area and are now working with local residents on various mail delivery options. The Rural Mailbox Safety Review is being conducted as a result of health and safety complaints from rural mail drivers across the country. Common complaints from rural mail drivers include: volume of traffic, speed of traffic, width of the shoulders and limited sightlines. The rural mailbox safety review began in Bridgewater and surrounding areas in August 2009. Since the review began a total of 42 hundred rural mailboxes, on nine rural routes, have been assessed.

Tip # 3 - Don't drink & drive

Don't drink and drive is today's tip from the RCMP on the 3rd day of their 12 days of Christmas tips. One drink can reduce your ability to concentrate and react to things that happen suddenly while you are driving. In Nova Scotia, there have been 17 traffic fatalities where alcohol was a factor in the crash, 15 of those in RCMP service areas. This equates to 27% of all fatal crashes in RCMP jurisdictions involving alcohol.

H1N1 Clinic cancelled due to weather

The Forest Heights Community School in Chester will NOT be holding the H1N1 Vaccination Clinic today that was suppose to be held from 4 until 6:30. Due to weather. However there will be a clinic tomorrow at the Park View Education Centre in Bridgewater that will go from 4 until 6:30. Students and adults are reminded to bring their health card to the clinics.
For more information you can visit our website at CKBW.ca and click on the Flu button.

Lunenburg Christmas Trees

Lunenburg Christmas Trees will be in the spot light today in Halifax. Premier Darrel Dexter, Lt. Gov. Mayann Francis and the Minister of Natural Resources will accept Christmas trees from the Lunenburg County Christmas tree Producers Association tomorrow at province house. The trees are presented each year to promote awareness of Nova Scotia's tree industry. The presentation begins at 2 at province house in Halifax.

Problem Gambling Grants

Nova Scotians in 8 communities that are effected be gambling will get a little help from the province. 8 problem gambling Organizations will be receiving a grant from the Nova Scotia Gaming Foundation. Over 133 thousand dollars will go out to the community programs to help develop and implement initiatives that address gambling related issues.

NS-House-Fire

A man and a woman in their 40s have been left homeless after a fire ravaged their home in the community of Lantz, between Halifax and Truro.
Red Cross volunteers are providing the couple with clothing, food, blankets, and personal-care items.
The couple is staying with relatives for the time being. Investigators are still looking into the cause of last night's blaze.

Stolen Tree Stands.

Lunenburg RCMP are asking your help in finding someone who stole 2 tree stands from a home off Highway 331 in Broad Cove. Anyone with information on the incident is asked to contact the Lunenburg County RCMP or Crime Stoppers.

H1-N1 clinics continuing this week on the South Shore.

H1-N1 clinics will be continuing this week on the South Shore, including several in High schools. Today a vaccination clinic is being held in Chester at the Oak Island Resort from one til six pm. Tomorrow the clinic will be held at the Liverpool High school in Liverpool. During school hours, clinics held at schools will only be available to students. Once school hours are up, then the public can receive their shots. There are clinics all week and if you would like to see a full list, you can visit our website ckbw.ca and click on the flu button.

Operation Scrooge.

Operation Scrooge is beginning this weekend in Halifax. If you have plans to go into the city shopping then make sure to lock your car doors. Halifax RCMP are starting their operation Scrooge this Saturday at several different shopping Centres. They will be patrolling and walking in parking lots checking for vehicles that are unlocked or have packages in plain sight. If they find one, they will leave a card on the windshield reminding them to keep doors locked so valuables don't go missing.

H1N1 vaccine at high school-based clinics.

Beginning next week South Shore Health will be offering H1N1 vaccine at high school-based clinics. Communicable Disease Prevention and Control Manager Lori McCracken said "During school hours vaccine will only be available to high school students". The clinics will open to public after school hours. Staff from Public Health Services will be immunizing students at Liverpool High coming up on Tuesday, Dec 8th, Forest Heights Community School on Dec 9th, and Park View on December 10th. People are reminded to bring their health card.
Approximately thirty thousand, three hundred people have been immunized in Lunenburg and Queens Counties. About 50% of the population. If you would like a full list of H1-N1 clinics you can go to our website ckbw.ca and click on the flu button.

Red Surge for Life Campaign.

RCMP in Nova Scotia have teamed up with Canadian Blood Services for a second year in a row to save lives this December. Employees and family members of the RCMP will be donating blood through the Red Surge for Life campaign. The RCMP in Nova Scotia and Canadian Blood services are hoping other Nova Scotians will take the time out and donate blood this holiday season.

Community Blooms.

The Town of Shelburne has been honoured as a Community in Bloom. The Tourism Industry Association of Nova Scotia honoured the 2009 program participants at an Awards Presentation during their annual Tourism Conference. Shelburne was the winner in the one thousand and one to 3 thousand population category. The awards are presented to recognize the ongoing commitment to beautification, environmental awareness, volunteer involvement and heritage conservation.

Police investigation into parked vehicle damage.

Bridgewater Police are investigating an incident of damage to a parked vehicle. Sometime between 4:20 and 5:00 pm on Tuesday, December 1st, a brown Kia Spectra was struck while parked at the Sobey's parking lot on Lahave Street. The vehicle sustained damage to the drivers side rear bumper. Police are also looking into a case of theft from a vehicle. A Tommy Hilfiger wallet was stolen from a vehicle parked outside Weagle's Baker on Victoria Road on November 24th. The wallet contained several credit cards, a small amount of cash and the owner's drivers licence.

Election results for Lunenburg Progressive Conservative Association.

Lunenburg Town Councillor Peter Zwicker has been elected the new President of the Lunenburg Progressive Conservative Association. Also elected to the executive were, Barbara Stevens, VP East; Audrey Vogel, Treasurer; Robert Cox, VP North; and Elmer Garber VP West. Zwicker says he would like to see a focus on the grass roots organization, building the membership numbers and engaging more youth in the local executive. The executive plan to meet in early 2010 and start the planning process. The elections took place at the Associations Annual General Meeting held on the weekend at the Barss Corner Community Hall. The guest speaker for the evening was the Honourable Senator John M Buchannan.

Christmas tree lighting in Boston.

A 38-year tradition of gratitude and holiday cheer continues todayas a 14-meter Christmas tree from Nova Scotia takes centre stage at the annual Tree Lighting ceremony in Boston. The tree is a gift to the City of Boston, recognizing the help provided in the aftermath of the Halifax Explosion on December 6th, 1917.
This year's tree is a white spruce from Floyd and Elaine Shatford of Fox Point, Lunenburg County. Shatford will be in Boston for the ceremony with his grandchildren. The ceremony will take place on the Boston Common at 8 p.m. our time and will be televised to an estimated viewing audience of 300 thousand.

New radio stations

The Acadia Broadcasting family is growing. The company has just received approval from the Canadian Radio Television and Telecommunications Commission to purchase two radio stations in Thunder Bay Ontario from Newcap Incorporated. The proposed purchase was first announced back in July of this year and with the Commission's approval the deal will be completed by the end of the month. Along with CKBW in Bridgewater, Acadia also has radio stations in Saint John and St Stephen, New Brunswick and three communities in northwestern Ontario.

Acadia Broadcasting Adds More Stations

From the business file -- the parent company of CKBW is growing again -- Saint John based Acadia Broadcasting has just received approval from the Canadian Radio - Television - and - Telecommunications Commission to purchase two radio stations in Thunder Bay from Newcap Incorporated.

The proposed purchase was first announced back in July of this year -- and -- with the regulatory approval -- the deal will be completed by the end of the month.

Acadia also has radio stations in Saint John and St Stephen in New Brunswick - and - three communities in northwestern Ontario.

The company will be launching a new FM country station here in Bridgewater in the new year.

Cumberland County man charged with aggravated assault.

Cumberland County RCMP charged a Cumberland County man with aggravated assault after a four month old infant was taken to hospital with serious injuries. Thomas Orland Wade Hunter was arrested Sunday and will appear in Amherst provincial Court today. The infant is still at the IWK being treated and is in stable condition.

Funding for the Chester Playhouse.

The Chester Theatre Council Society received good news today. The Chester Playhouse will be receiving funding for the new year.On behalf of James Moore, the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, Gerald Keddy announced today,the funding is for the Chester Playhouse's 2010 program of theatre productions, concerts, and other activities.

Vandalism in Bridgewater.

Bridgewater Police are investigating an incident of damage to a St. Phillips Street residence. Sometime overnight Saturday, November 28th, someone damaged an oil line, resulting in an oil spill. During that same period a window was also broken on a vehicle at the same residence. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Bridgewater Police Service.

Reminder to remove valuables from your vechile.

Here's another reminder to remove those valuables from your vehicle. Sometime during the overnight hours of Sunday, November 29th, a vehicle on Porter Crescent was broken into. A black kit bag was stolen with the contents worth between 6 and 7 hundred dollars. Also during the overnight hours of Sunday a shed was broken into at a residence on Pinehurst Avenue. Bridgewater Police are investigating both incidents.

Lunenburg County woman struck by a vechile while using a cross walk.

A sixty year old woman from Lunenburg County was allegedly struck by a vehicle yesterday while using a cross walk in front of the Shoppers Drug Mart at the Bridgewater Mall.
A sixteen year old female was driving the vehicle. The victim was taken by ambulance to South Shore Regional Hospital where she was treated and released.
Police are reminding the general public that during the holiday season motorists must be extra vigilant when driving through Mall parking lots and town streets due to the increased volume of Christmas shoppers.

Lobster Season is acknowledged.

Lobster's value and importance to Nova Scotia was acknowledged today (November 30th) as December was proclaimed the Month of the Lobster.
Fisheries and Aquaculture Minister Sterling Belliveau, read the proclamation on behalf of Premier Darrell Dexter at a breakfast with fishermen on Cape Sable Island before the season opened today. The minister says Nova Scotia lobster has tremendous value as a high-quality seafood that is appreciated around the world.
The proclamation states lobster is worth $400 million to the economy of Nova Scotia, the largest lobster supplying province in the country.

Lunenburg is working to keep its world heritage designation.

Officials in Lunenburg are putting the finishing touches on a heritage sustainability plan.
Mayor Laurence Mawhinney tells CKBW News the plan will include a review of the town's heritage bylaw.
Mawhinney says the heritage plan is now required to maintain the town's world heritage site designation.

Chester Council agrees to upgrade and expansion of the Oceanview Garden Center.

Chester council is giving the green light to a development agreement which will allow a controversial upgrade and expansion of the Oceanview Garden Center.
Warden Allen Webber tells CKBW News there were concerns raised by nearby property owners. But he thinks the agreement represents a compromise which eases those concerns while allowing the upgrade and expansion to proceed.

H1-N1 shots in Nova Scotia Schools.

Looks like students will no longer have to go far to get thier H1-N1 Flu shots. Some high school students will be able to get thier shots on campus starting next week.
The Capital Health District Authority is launching an in-school vaccination pilot program.
They hope to hold clinics at 17 high schools in the coming weeks, mostly within the Halifax Regional School Board.

Atlantic Canada Christmas tree growers are asking for Help.

Christmas tree growers in Atlantic Canada are asking for help. They say they need federal help if their industry is to remain viable.
They're seeking more than three million dollars to help with research and technology.
Matthew Wright of the Christmas Tree Council of Nova Scotia says most of the money would be used to help improve the quality of the trees.
The industry is worth 30 million dollars in Nova Scotia and more than 100 million in the Atlantic region.

New Judge Being Sworn In

A swearing in ceremony is set for noon time today for Bridgewater's newest judge.
Richard MacKinnon will be sworn in during a ceremony at the Port Hawkesbury courthouse where he's been serving as senior Crown Counsel.

Chester Council Approves Breastfeeding Policy

Mothers who are breastfeeding should feel more welcome in the municipality of the district of Chester.
Warden Allen Webber tells CKBW News council has approved a breastfeeding friendly policy to support breastfeeding by employees and visitors at municipal properties.
Webber says it should make it easier for breastfeeding mothers to access municipal services while maintaining a level of dignity.

Lunenburg's Finances On Track

Despite a large capital works program this year -- Lunenburg mayor Laurence Mawhinney says the town's finances are pretty much on track.
Mawhinney tells CKBW News it's been a busy construction season with a number of projects well underway on budget and on time.
But Mawhinney says the work on the Tannery Road probably won't get started until spring -- the town is spending about 17-million on infrastructure projects this year -- and -- that combined with the 4-million dollar operating budget is the largest budget in the town's history.

Flu Impact Easing In Schools

Student attendance is back at normal levels in schools in the South Shore region -- a spokesman for the South Shore Regional School Board tells us absentee rates for students and teachers due to the H-1-N-1 flu were reaching high levels a few weeks ago.
But -- he says the rate has settled back into normal territory in the past two weeks.
Flu assessment clinics at the South Shore Regional Hospital and the Yarmouth Hospital have closed after a significant decline in the number of people using the facilities.

Oak Island Group's Fate To Be Decided Next Month

Some controversy brewing over the direction of The Oak Island Tourism Society.
A meeting on December 7th will consider a motion to dissolve the society.
Danny Hennigar, vice-chair of the group, tells CKBW the group no longer believes it can attain its goals of an interpretive centre, regular tours of the island, and a museum.
Hennigar says the group can't raise the needed funds.
Others in the community think the plan is viable.
Charles Barkhouse tried to join the group a year ago and he thinks the goals can be attained.
The group meets at Oak Island Inn at 2 pm on Monday, December 7th. If the group is dissolved, its assets will be transferred to the Chester Heritage Society.

Payzant Re-elected School Board Chair

There's a familiar face at the head of the boardroom table at the South Shore School Board.
Elliott Payzant has been re-elected the chair of the board while Herb Seymour will serve as vice-chair.
The board has also paid tribute to Park View music teacher Scott Leonard who was recently awarded the national "Music Counts" award.
The award is presented to music teahers making outstanding contributions to music and education.

Operation Christmas Roadside Checks Launched

Battle Against Drunk Driving Gets A Boost Today

There will be some fanfare in town this morning -- Operation Christmas is being launched during a news conference at the Days Inn.
It's the province wide police checkpoint effort to reduce impaired driving over the holidays.
Representatives from the Road Safety Advisory Committee and police forces will be attending -- so will CKBW News and we will have details later this morning.

Kids Getting A Chance Thanks To Shelburne Council

Thirty unprivileged children will have the chance of a life-time with a new "Kids Fair Play fund committee".
This was one of the topics discussed at the Municipality of Shelburne Councils meeting.
The committee will provide financial support to thirty children allowing them to enjoy recreational and cultural events; the council has also formalized the Municipal Installment Billing policy for municipal tax collection and a steering committee has been formed for the Sandy Point Sewage Treatment Plant Project.

Postal Employees Denied Exemption

Canada Post employees in Lunenburg will have to continue to carry some extra change with them to feed the meter.
Council has turned down a request to exempt the employees from having to pay for parking.
The workers sometimes have to park on the street in the morning because transport trucks delivering the mail block access to the employee parking lot.
Mayor Laurence Mawhinney tells us council felt it would be setting a precedent which would lead to a rash of similar requests.

Cemetery Continues To Struggle

The mayor of Bridgewater says the Brookside Cemetery continues to struggle financially.
Mayor Carroll Publicover tells CKBW News the Cemetery Commission has been trying to reach the breakeven point -- but -- it continues to rely on subsidies from the town.
The mayor says the Cemetery Commission is facing another expense -- the pond in the cemetery needs to be dredged to clean it up -- that will require approvals from the Fisheries and Environment departments.

South Shore Flu Assessment Closing

Another flu assessment clinic is closing -- this time the one at the South Shore Regional will be closing at four this afternoon.
The Health Authority says the number of patients has been in a steady decline over the past week.
The clinic at the Yarmouth Hospital closed earlier this week as its numbers also dropped.
Meantime -- flu shot clinics are still being held throughout the region.

Highway Environment Assessment Open For Public Comment

The Environmental Assessment report is now complete for the proposed four lane highway connecting Highways 103 and 102.
The report is now in the hands of the Environment Minister and is open for public comment.
The new highway is designed to bypass the Halifax area and relieve congestion on the Hammonds Plains Road. The report is available by clicking here.

Copies of the Environmental Assessment Report may also be examined at the following locations:
Tantallon Public Library, 3646 Hammonds Plains Road, Upper Tantallon, NS Keshen Goodman Public Library, 330 Lacewood Drive, Halifax, NS Clean Nova Scotia, 126 Portland Street, Dartmouth, NS Ecology Action Centre, 2705 Fern Lane, Halifax, NS Nova Scotia Environment, Central Regional Office, 1595 Bedford Highway, Suite 224, Bedford, NS Nova Scotia Environment, 5th Floor Library, 5151 Terminal Road, Halifax, NS

Charities Granted Tax Exemption

It was a close vote -- but -- Bridgewater town council has approved a bylaw giving named registered charities a property tax exemption.
Mayor Carroll Publicover tells CKBW news there were some concerns about whether to have the exemption effective in the next budget year or make it retroactive to this year.
But -- in the end -- Council voted 4-3 in favour of making the exemption retroactive to this year.

More Flu Related Deaths Reported

The province has recorded two more Swine Flu related deaths -- the victims were a man and woman in their forties with underlying medical conditions.
The man died in the Pictou County area while the woman died in the Capital District Health Authority area -- bringing the total of number of flu related deaths to five.
Meantime -- the Flu Assessment Clinic at the Yarmouth Hospital has closed effective today -- officials say there's been a drop in the number of people showing up with flu related symptoms.
The Flu Assessment Clinic at the South Shore Regional Hospital remains open Monday through Friday between one and four in the afternoon.

Flu Clinic Closing

The latest round of the Swine Flu appears to be on the wane -- and -- the latest sign is the closure of the Flu Assessment Clinic at the Yarmouth Hospital effective tomorrow.
Officials say the there has been a drop in the number of people showing up with flu symptoms -- but -- it will re-open if that situation changes.
Meanwhile -- the Flu Assessment Clinic at the South Shore Regional Hospital remains open Monday through Friday between one and four in the afternoon.

Town Moves To Control Adult Entertainment

Bridgewater council wants to have tighter controls on where adult entertainment venues set up shop in the town.
Mayor Carroll Publicover says the town doesn't have any legal right to ban the clubs -- but -- he tells CKBW News town staff will look at a couple of zoning options by either setting up an exclusive zone for the operations or tightening up existing zoning to make sure they can't locate in - or - near residential areas.
The town started looking into the situation after learning Bridgewater was being considered as one of a number of potential location for an adult entertainment club.

New Regional Chief Crown Attorney Appointed

There will be a new chief Crown Prosecutor serving our region at the end of January.
Ingrid Brodie will take over from Craig Harding who is retiring.
Brodie is a life long resident of the Annapolis Valley and has been involved in a number of projects including the Safer Communities and Neighborhoods Act as well as input into the creation and operation of the Sex Offender Registry.
She'll be responsible for regional offices along the South Shore - the southwestern region - and - the Annapolis Valley.

Nasty Weather Coming Our Way

It may be just a month until Christmas Eve -- but -- our spring like weather is continuing with a twist of dampness today.
A rainfall warning has been issued for our area with rain at times heavy tonight into tomorrow morning -- a total of up to60-mm's of rain is expected before the system passes tomorrow.
The rain will be combined with fog and a strong wind making for tricky driving conditions later today and tonight.

Crib Recall

(CP) It's the biggest baby-crib recall in Canadian and U-S history.
Nearly a million drop-side cribs are being recalled in this country and 1.2-million stateside, following reports that four babies have died and dozens have been injured.
The drop-side cribs are made by Stork Craft Manufacturing of B-C, and feature a side that moves up and down to allow parents to lift kids from the cribs more easily.
There's been no comment yet from Health Canada.
But the U-S Consumer Product Safety Commission says the main problem is that the drop-side can become detached, leaving a space where a baby can become trapped and suffocate.
The cribs were made between 1993 and last month.
A free repair kit is available from Stork Craft that will convert the dropside to a fixed side - the toll free number is 1-877-274-0277.

Old Tire Deal Inked

Halifax based C&D Recycling is the successful bidder to begin a recycling program for old car tires.
The Resource Recovery Fund Board announced the deal today calling it a made in Nova Scotia solution for used tires.
The company will turn the old tires into a material used for lightweight fill - insulation against frost - backfill - and - drainage layers for roads and landfills.
The contract will run five years with the option for renewal.

N-S Can't Afford Not To Develop Kids Program

The Executive Director of the Nova Scotia Council for Early Childhood Development says we can't afford to be without an early childhood development program.
Theresa Griffin tells CKBW News a provincial strategy would pay dividends in the long term through lower crime rates and the number of special needs kids.
The Council has called on the Dexter government to develop an early childhood development strategy covering children from birth to six years of age -- it says that strategy could include things like full day learning for 4-and-5 year olds and summer programs for school aged kids.

Flu Clinics For All

There are a number of Swine Flu shot clinics scheduled this week with the vaccine now available to all residents.
There's a clinic today in Liverpool at the Best Western running from one until six while a clinic is scheduled at the Freeport Legion today between 2 and 6.
Officials are cautioning there may be line ups - and - reminding you to bring your health card.
Meantime -- all South Shore Health facilities are now open to regular visiting -- but -- you're being asked to stay away if you have any flu symptoms.

Jenkins Wins School Board Nod

There's a new face on the South Shore Regional School Board -- Dr John Jenkins of Lunenburg has been elected the member for District 7.
Jenkins won Saturday's by-election defeating rival Craig Buffet by a 99-vote margin -- the results won't be official until tomorrow after the Returning Officer confirms the tally.
The seat became vacant when former vice-chair Karen Kinley resigned in August after accepting a provincial government job in Halifax.

Jenkins Wins School Board Nod

There's a new face on the South Shore Regional School Board -- Dr John Jenkins of Lunenburg has been elected the member for District 7.
Jenkins won Saturday's by-election defeating rival Craig Buffet by a 99-vote margin -- the results won't be official until tomorrow after the Returning Officer confirms the tally.
The seat became vacant when former vice-chair Karen Kinley resigned in August after accepting a provincial government job in Halifax.

Lunenburg Doctor new School Board Member

Dr. John Jenkins of Lunenburg is the newly elected South Shore Regional School Board member for District 7. Jenkins won the by-election on Saturday with 233 votes to 134 for Craig Buffett. There were a total of 368 ballots cast, with two ballots rejected. Voter turnout was 6.8 percent. The result won't be official until Tuesday when the Returning Officer collects the ballot boxes and confirms there were no mistakes at the polling stations. The seat became vacant when former Vice-Chair Karen Kinley resigned from the Board August 31st after accepting a job with the provincial government's legislative council office in Halifax.

Flu Shots Now Available To All Nova Scotians

Provincial health officials are opening up the Swine Flu vaccinations to all Nova Scotians.
Chief Public Health Officer - Dr Robert Strang - says he's anticipating a steady supply of the vaccine in the coming weeks.
But public health officials are also cautioning some clinics may run out of vaccine due to initial heavy demand at those clinics.

Olympic Torch Arrives This Evening

It's a big night for the South Shore area -- we get a chance to get up close to the Olympic Torch as it makes its way across the country heading to Vancouver for the Winter Games.
The torch is scheduled to arrive in New Germany just before 5 this afternoon then it will make its way to Bridgewater and is due to begin its journey through town around 5:20 on North Street -- it will then travel down Aberdeen to the New Bridge turning left onto King Street where it will make its way to the Old Bridge across to LaHave Street and down the street ending at 5:54pm when it will then make its journey to Lunenburg where a two hour event is planned in front of the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic.
It leaves tomorrow for P-E-I.

Calls For Early Childhood Strategy

The Nova Scotia Council for Early Childhood Development is calling on the provincial government to create an early childhood development strategy.
The call comes as the council marks National Child's Day and the 20th anniversary of the Convention on the Rights of the Child.
The council says Nova Scotia should follow recent recommendations in Ontario which call for full day learning programs for 4-and-5 year olds - and - enhanced parental leave among other things.

Real Estate Market Cools Slightly

The real estate market has cooled a bit along the South Shore.
The Nova Scotia Realtors Association reports sales off by six percent between August and October compared to the same period a year ago.
But the Association reports the average price in our area is up just over two percent and now stands at just under 170-thousand dollars.
The Yarmouth area saw a 50-percent increase in sales between August and October this year compared to 2008 -- but -- the average price there has dropped five percent to just over 115-thousand dollars.

Black Ice Conditions Reported

The temperature may feel warm as you head out this morning - but - don't be fooled.
There is a lot of black ice on bridges - overpasses - and - now some roads mainly in the northern part of the county with a couple of accidents reported already.
Transportation Department crews are out with salt and sand -- but -- they're advising caution.

Man Hit With Big Fine For Illegal Cigarettes And Pot

A Mount Pleasant man has been hit with ove 22-thousand dollars in fines for possessing illegal cigarettes.
54-year old Ronald Nelson Veinot was also charged with possession of marijuana.
Police swooped down on his home last March and seized over 140 bags of smokes and dried marijuana bud.
He claimed the pot was for his own use and he was storing the cigarettes for a friend.

Flu Still Taking A Toll Across The Province

The H-1-N-1 flu continues to take a toll on Nova Scotians. Public Health reports there were 51-people admitted to hospital between November 8th and 14th.
Health officials also say the number of people reporting to emergency rooms with flu like symptoms remains high but has actually dropped slightly from earlier in the fall.
The province has also recorded it's third H-1-N-1 related death in the Capital District Health Authority -- the woman was over 65.

Another Flu Death Reported

The Public Health Agency of Canada says another Nova Scotian has died as a result of complications from the H-1-N-1 flu virus.
The death occurred between last Thursday and yesterday according to a posting on the agency's web site.
It would be the third flu rated death in the province -- the provincial Chief Medical Officer of Health is expected to release more details this afternoon.

Tourism Holding Its Own

Despite the sluggish economy earlier this year -- tourism numbers are up one percent between January and September compared to the same period a year ago.
The provincial tourism department says that translates into 1.6-million visitors during the period.
The number of people driving to our province is up eight percent while the number of air travellers coming to visit dropped 13-percent compared to last year.

Flu Assessment Clinic Hours Changing

The regional health authority is changing the hours of operation for the Flu Assessment Center at the South Shore Regional Hospital.
Beginning on Monday -- the center will be open between one and 4 through next Friday.
The authority says fewer people have been visiting the center over the past week -- and -- reducing the hours of operation will free up staff to resume other services that have been relocated or deferred.
The health authority says it will continue to monitor the situation and make changes in services as required.

Home Heating Assistance Applications Available

Applications are now being accepted for the provincial heating assistance program.
The program is aimed at Nova Scotians with a combined family income of under 42-thousand dollars a year or single people earning less than 27-thousand dollars.
Those eligible can get up to 200-dollars if they heat their homes with oil - electricity - wood - propane - wood pellets - natural gas - or - coal -- that's 250-dollars less than last year.
More than 54-thousand applications have been mailed out to people who received a rebate last year.

School Support Strike Vote Underway

The new year could bring a strike by unionized school support staff across the province.
The 37-hundred members of the Canadian Union of Public Employees are currently conducting a strike vote with results tallied on the 27th of this month.
The bus drivers - janitors - teacher's aides - and - other support staff have been without a contract since March of 2007.
The union is looking for the same 2.9-percent salary increase granted recently to public school and community college teachers.

Seniors Grants Now Available

Seniors across the province will now have access to a 220-thousand dollar provincial program to help with aging projects.
The Positive Aging Fund will offer grants of up to 10-thousand dollars to non-profit groups to help with their projects.
More information can be found here.

Panthers Nearing End Of Overseas Journey

The Parkview Panthers are in the final stages of a trip to the Republic of Slovenia -- coach Eric Dolliver says the 14-boys on the exchange trip are gaining a wealth of education and history.
Dolliver says the Republic is a hotbed for basketball and the boys have been meeting with some of their experts as well as taking part in a hoop tournament where they finished fourth of out six teams.
They head for home on Saturday.

Liverpool Receiving A Connection To John Lennon

It's the only municipality in Canada invited to take part this year -- Liverpool is capitalizing on its relations with Liverpool - England and is receiving the commemorative White Feather Candle from the John Lennon White Feather Foundation.
Spokesperson Phaedra Charlton-Huskins tells us the candle will be lit during the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony on the 27th -- but -- it won't be just a public official lighting the candle -- it will be the winner of an essay contest for the kids.
She says a picture will be taken during the ceremony and sent to the Foundation in England where it will be featured with other photos of similar ceremonies around the world.
The foundation was started by Julian Lennon in honor of his father to promote environmental and humanitarian issues

Food Challenge Underway

The challenge has been issued -- and -- the Bridgewater Interchurch Food Bank will be the ultimate winner.
The Bridgewater Police Service and South Shore paramedics are trying to fill their vehicles with the most food items.
The police are taking donations to stuff their van at the police station on Exhibition Drive while the paramedics are trying to fill an ambulance at their North Street base.
A special food drive is also planned for next month at the Superstor parking lot.

Lock Your Vehicle!

With Christmas shopping beginning to ramp up -- Barrington R-C-M-P are issuing a reminder.
The Mounties are asking you to remember to remove valuables and loose change from your vehicles -- and -- make sure they're locked.
The R-C-M-P have been dealing with a rash of reports of things being removed from vehicles -- in most cases -- they were left unlocked.

Tree Gift Begins Journey To Boston

Our annual gift to the people of Boston is on its way -- the 15-meter white spruce was cut down yesterday on the Fox Point property of Floyd and Elaine Shatford.
The Christmas tree will be set up on the Boston Common with a tree lighting ceremony set for December 3rd.
The province sends a tree each year as a thank you to the people of the New England city for their help in the wake of the Halifax explosion.

Speed And Lack Of Seat Belt Singled Out In Fatal Crash

The lack of a seatbelt is being singled out as contributing to the death of a Lunenburg County man Friday night.
R-C-M-P say the 39-year old man died of injuries suffered in the single vehicle crash on Highway 332 in First South.
So far - no name has been released.

Nova Scotia Stands To Lose More Residents

A new report is predicting Nova Scotia will lose 100-thousand workers by 2046.
The study by the Atlantic Institute for Market Studies also shows we have been successful in getting more people into the workforce - especially women.
On the other side of the coin -- the report also points out something which is no real secret -- more of us are moving into the older demographics.
And the report points out that's going to have a significant impact on the region's ability to generate output and income as well as virtually all other aspects of the economy.

Annual Tree Cutting Set For This Morning

A tree cutting ceremony is planned for this morning to mark Nova Scotia's annual Christmas gift to Boston.
This year's selected tree is a white spruce from Fox Point that belongs to Floyd Shatford, the Deputy-Warden of Chester.
Every year since 1971 the province has sent a Christmas tree to the people of Boston in appreciation for their help during the aftermath of the Halifax Explosion.
Students from Aspotogan Elementary and Shatford Memorial schools will be taking part in the tree cutting ceremony.
The event which is also open to the public takes place at 10 o'clock this morning, at Highway 329, Fox Point Shore Road, house number 823.

Group Wants Money To Recruit Doctors

A community group in Chester is looking for 58-thousand dollars from the municipal council.
The group wants to use the money to help recruit new doctors to the area by expanding the Health Resource Center at Shoreham Village.
Council is looking at the request to see if it can find the money in its budget -- the group has also proposed an interest free loan from the municipality as an alternative to the direct cash grant.

More Flu Clinics To Start The Week

Flu shots clinics continue here in the region for those in the priority groups - the latest is set for today in Yarmouth at the Lions Club between 2 and 6 -- and -- there is also one here in Bridgewater at the Holy Trinity Anglican Church Hall between 1 and 6 today.
Tomorrow -- one is scheduled in Lunenburg at the Community Center between one and 6 while the Weymouth Legion will be the scene of a clinic between one and six as well.

Minister Hears Chester Concerns

She didn't have precise answers on issues raised -- but -- Chester Warden Allen Webber says a meeting with Community Services Minister Denise Peterson - Rafuse has opened up a line of communications.
The Chester - St Margaret's M-L-A met with the council recently -- and -- Webber says she now has a better understanding of the local concerns of council.

Money For Lobster Marketing

A boost for the Nova Scotia Fish Packers Association in its bid to develop new markets for lobster.
The federal government is offering up over 70-thousand dollars to help the Association open up new markets in China.
The Association is targeting a number of Chinese cities.

Tipping Fee Exemption Sought

The Chester Village Commission is asking Municipal Council for an exemption in tipping fees relating to the Lido Pool renovations.
Warden Allen Webber says in previous cases of such requests, the amount was deducted from grants received by the organizations.
The Village Commission wants the exemption to the tip fee for the debris from the demolition in an effort to reduce the overall costs of the renovation.

Community Christmas Event Planning Well Underway

It's still more than a month away but planning is in the works for the first ever Bridgewater Community Christmas.
The volunteer run event aims to bring people together from all walks to share joy, company and food on Christmas Day.
The Bridgewater Community Christmas is planned for one o'clock Christmas Day at the Bridgewater High School.
Tickets are available free of charge at the door or in advance and transportation will be available.

Court Vacancy Filled

A vacancy on the bench here in Bridgewater is finally being filled -- Richard MacKinnon of Troy has been appointed a provincial judge.
He's been a senior Crown counsel with the Public Prosecution branch in Port Hawksbury -- his appointment takes effect immediately.

Seniors Complex Water Fix Costly

A seniors complex in Chester is asking the municipal council for help with a 71-thousand dollar fix for water problems.
The Shoreham Village complex is down to one well and it's trucking in water daily at a cost of 16-thousand dollars a month.
Warden Allen Webber says the municipality budget doesn't include money to help with the fix -- and -- he's not clear it's a municipal responsibility.
But council will review the situation and possible solutions to help with the problem -- meantime -- the Health Department has agreed to pay 45-thousand dollars to cover the nursing home's share of the cost.

Chester Council Supports Traffic Review

Chester council has approved a request for a traffic study -- that request coming from the R-C-M-P advisory committee.
The committee wants the study to review vehicle counts and parking issues along Duke Street between Main and Tremont Streets.
The request for the study will now be sent to the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure renewal.

Lunenburg Company Holding Its Own

The recession doesn't appear to be hurting Lunenburg's High Liner Foods -- third quarter financial results show lower sales volume -- but -- for the year to date sales are up just over 9-percent while net income has improved 35-percent compared to the same period last year.

Autopsy Being Performed In Sudden Death Case

They don't suspect foul play -- Lunenburg County RCMP are working on a case involving a sudden death at a Lower Branch home yesterday.
They were called to the home around 1:30 yesterday afternoon and found the body of a 71-year old man.
An autopsy will be carried out today.

Flu Continues To Grip Province

The H-1-N-1 flu continues to take hold across the province -- the latest stats show there were 37-people hospitalized last week as a result of the flu.
Since the flu season began in September -- there have been 502-confirmed cases of the Swine Flu with a total of 73-people admitted to hospital -- and -- one H-1-N-1 related death.
Still with the flu -- a reminder there is a flu shot clinic scheduled for today at the Best Western in Liverpool between 2 and 6 -- tomorrow -- a clinic is scheduled at the Park View Education Center here in Bridgewater -- it will run between 10 and 2 -- both are for those people in the priority groups only.

New Transportation Plan For Chester

Chester is moving to develop what it's calling an active transportation plan -- coordinator Gordon Tate says he will be working to design a network of bikeways - trails - and - sidewalks.
The plan is part of the active living strategy developed by Chester - Mahone Bay - and - the Department of Health Promotion and Protection.
The active living strategy and the transportation plan are scheduled to be implemented over a three year period.

Fox Point Tree Headed For Boston

A Fox Point white spruce will be heading to Boston this year as our gift to Beantown for help in the aftermath of the Halifax explosion.
The 15-meter tree is on land in Lunenburg County owned by Floyd and Elainse Shatford.
A tree cutting ceremony is planned for Monday.

Crash Claims One

A 31-year old man is dead after a single vehicle crash on Highway 1 in Middle Sackville last night.
The Mounties say it appears the man lost control on a curve and rolled into the ditch.
Police say it appears the driver wasn't wearing a seat belt at the time of the mishap -- so far no name has been release.

New Center Closer To Reality

The Chair of the Lunenburg County Lifestyle Society says a big step has been taken in the process to move forward with the LCLC.
Paul Belliveau says the joint councils of Bridgewater and Municipality of Lunenburg have approved the first phase of the architect services.
Belliveau says the price tag will have to be revised from the 31.5 million and they need a more current number.
Both councils also approved a contract for accounting services and the setting up of a municipal corporation.

New Deputy Mayor Named

Martin Bell has been elected the new deputy-mayor of the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg.
Bell who was first elected to Council in 2000 takes over the post from Don Zwicker who could not reoffer because of a new policy implemented by Council.
Bell says the new one year term allows the Councillors to rotate the position.

New Name For Road To New Francophone School

A seven year old student who attends Ecole de la Rive-Sud the winner of a contest by the Municipality of Lunenburg to name the road leading to the new French school.
Mayor Don Downe says the entry by Abbey Rafuse was selected by Council and it is Chemin Petit Evangeline Court.
The road named by Abbey will be applied to the portion of road off Champlain Drive in Cookville where the new French school is being constructed.

Lunenburg Claims Top Prize

The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg being recognized for having one of the top 50 Canadian web designs.
Partnering with Headspace Design of Halifax, the Municipality engaged in an intense branding exercise and the implementation of a web design and development approach.
Mayor Don Downe says, the new site will be a show piece for the region.
The new tourism website features a birdhouse as the new branding symbol and the shortened name of Lunenburg Region.

Large Turnouts For Remembrance Day Services

Bridgewater among a number of communities around the region reporting a solid turnout for Remembrance Day services yesterday.
Prince Charles took part in the service at the National War Memorial in Ottawa -- he urged Canadians to recognize the "enormous debt of gratitude" owed the men and women fighting in Afghanistan.

More Flu Shot Clinics Planned

A number of H-1-N-1 vaccine clinics will take place over the next three days to accommodate new target groups announced by the province. South Shore Health has clinics planned for this afternoon from 2 to 6 p.m. at the New Ross Consolidated School, Friday at the Best Western Hotel in Liverpool from 2 to 6 p.m. and Saturday in Bridgewater at Park View Education Centre from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m.

The new groups now eligible to receive the H1N1 vaccination are :
** people under 65 with chronic medical conditions;
** people living with, or providing care in the home for infants less than six months of age,
** people living with those at high-risk who cannot be immunized and those who are immunocompromised and may not respond to vaccine; AND
** people who work in residential-care facilities, community-based option and small-option homes, group homes and developmental residences.

Survey Says: Safe

Most Nova Scotians are satisfied with the provincial highways system, according to the 2008 Highway Customer Satisfaction Survey. The survey says 76 per cent of Nova Scotians feel safe driving and 65 per cent feel safe walking in their communities. Overall satisfaction with the highway system remains relatively consistent at 61 per cent. Cellphone use while driving was the top issue among respondents, followed closely by speeding and distracted drivers. This fiscal year, the department has dedicated More than 530 million dollars to highway spending, an almost 87-million-dollars more than last year. The 2008 Overall Highlights Report is available on the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal website at www.gov.ns.ca/tran/publications/ . The 2009 survey has begun.

Toddler Improving

RCMP from Queens tell CKBW the young boy run over in Bang's Falls is improving and is on his way to recovery. Staff Sergeant Bruno Deveau says the three year old is scheduled to leave the Intensive Care Unit at the IWK later today. The child was hit by a car in the driveway of his home around 3:30 Monday afternoon. His mother was driving the vehicle at the time. He was rushed to hospital in Bridgewater by paramedics. The provincial air ambulance then flew him to Halifax. Deveau says the investigation is ongoing and police are still waiting to speak to the boy's mother about what happened.

Former Premier Speaks

It's a special guest speaker for a special meeting. This will be the first Annual General Meeting in a long for members of the Lunenburg Progressive Conservative Association where there is not a sitting MLA from the riding. The Association says it's membership is working hard, taking on challenges with a renewed optimism in the rebuilding process. Their A-G-M is being held at the Barss Corner Community Centre on Saturday November 28, 2009. And the guest speaker is the Honourable Senator John Buchanan, QC. John Buchanan served as Premier of Nova Scotia from 1978 to 1990 and member of the Senate from 1990 to 2006.

Torch Run Money

The Town of Lunenburg is receiving $15,000 as they host celebrations during the Olympic Torch Relay’s visit. MP Gerald Keddy announced the funding support for the Town yesterday. Keddy says "When the Torch comes to Lunenburg, the Olympic spirit will touch each and every one of us." The Torch will visit the Town of Lunenburg on Friday, November 20th for an evening community celebration on the Lunenburg waterfront (Fisheries Museum Parking Lot). Celebrations are from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm with a fireworks display wrapping up the evening.

Toddler Injured

Few details and no update yet. Police say a three-year-old Queens county boy was taken to hospital with head injuries after he was hit by a vehicle driven by his mother. The accident happened yesterday afternoon in a private driveway in Bangs Falls while the woman was backing up. RCMP Staff Sgt. Bruno Deveau says the boy was conscious after the accident. But Deveau did not have details on the boy's condition. He says an investigation of the mishap continues. The boy was reportedly airlifted to hospital in Halifax.

Heath Fund Audit

An investigation is being conducted into accounting irregularities within the shared financial services of South Shore Health, Annapolis Valley Health, and South West Health. The matter was reported to the Kentville Town Police Department and an investigation is ongoing. Criminal Charges are possible. The three Health Authorities are also together conducting their own forensic audit.As a result of its own internal investigation, an employee based at Annapolis Valley Health has been dismissed for cause. The full extent of the circumstances won't be known until the police investigation and audit are complete.The three Health Authorities are cooperating fully with the police investigation.

Greenfield Fire

A Greenfield man is being treated in hospital for non-life threatening burns according to the fire chief in the community. Harry Nelson tells CKBW he and the Deputy Fire Marshal went through the house on Highway 210 this morning. They figure the cause of the fire was electrical. Crews from Greenfield Volunteer Fire were paged out just after four this morning to the house at 4939 Highway 210. Chief Nelson says they got help fighting the fire from Liverpool and North Queens crews. He says the man had been renovating the property and was staying there by himself. The man was apparently woken up by a loud noise this morning before smoke started filling the house. He went to a neighbour's to call 9-1-1. The interior is badly damaged by fire and smoke but the chief says the building is still standing. It's not known if it is insured.

No Shooting

Queens RCMP say an incident Friday night reported as a shooting in Charleston turned out to be an accident involving a man on an ATV. Staff Sergeant Bruno Deveau tells CKBW it started with a 9-1-1 call that ended abruptly around 5:15 Friday. Another call came in minutes later suggesting there had been a man had been shot and the shooter was in the woods. RCMP and Paramedics responded to a cabin in the Riversdale area where they found a 51-year old man with head injuries. He was taken to hospital in Bridgewater claiming he was shot at while riding his all terrain vehicle. In the meantime, a perimeter was set up in the area by Natural Resources and RCMP. It was not long after the doctor called police the man had NOT been shot. S/Sgt Deveau says it appears the man drove over an object that came up and hit the man in the back of the head. The Charleston man has since been treated and released from hospital.

Sudden Death

RCMP in Lunenburg county are calling it a sudden death but say no foul play is suspected. Staff Sergeant Mark Furey says their members were called to a home in Barrs Corner just after midnight Saturday. Paramedics were already on scene when officers arrived. The crews had already started working on the 48 year old woman but she was pronounced deceased about 15 minutes later. An autopsy is being conducted today. Again, police do not suspect foul play.