DOORS LEFT UNLOCKED FOR LOCAL THIEF

Bridgewater Town Police are warning residents to lockup.

Police say there were a number of thefts from vehicles on St. Phillips street, last Friday.

On Saturday night, four vehicles left unlocked in Hebbville, Wileville and Upper Branch had items stolen from inside.

Both Bridgewater Town Police and Lunenburg County RCMP are seeking information on these crimes.

QUEENS FUNDING DRIVE A SUCESS

The two million dollar fundraising drive for Queens Place Recreation Facility is well underway.

One third of the remaining facility cost has been accounted for in the first day of the campaign.

More than 785,800 dollars in donations were announced yesterday.

Former resident, Valerie Dyer, Dartmouth resident, Frances Inglis, Ulf and Barb Snarby, the Raddall family, Council members and numerous anonymous donors contributed to the healthy sum.

The facility, which plans on opening its doors in January, will contain an NHL size ice rink, an indoor walking track, a fitness centre, and a community room.

BEARS IN BRIDGEWATER

Bridgewater Town Police are advising citizens to watch out for wildlife.

A black bear and her cub were spotted in town, on Aberdeen Road yesterday afternoon.

Both animals had fled the area by the time police and Natural Resources officials responded to the call.

Deputy Chief John Collyer with Bridgewater Police says there are real concerns over safety when people and wild animals meet.

"If this is a bear and a cub, mom would obviously be very protective of the cub. And anytime that momma bear feels confronted, or feels that her cub is at risk, there could be risk to life and limb for anybody coming in contact," says Collier.

Collyer says citizens who see a bear near a residential area should contact Police or Natural Resources right away.

Police are also advising that compost piles and garbage heaps be kept under lock and key.

COURT TO ASESS EVIDENCE OF MURDER

A Nova Scotia man arrested in Lunenburg over the summer on a Canada wide warrant for murder has had dates set for his preliminary hearing.

Twenty year-old Robert Harris Lamb of Dartmouth faces a charge of second-degree murder in the death of Jonathan Beaton, who died after a brawl outside a house party in Antigonish on January. 1st.

Four days were set aside for his preliminary inquiry beginning January 4th.

The inquiry will determine if there is enough evidence for the case to go to trial.

ARREST IN EASTERN PASSAGE

Two young men are facing multiple charges after an arrest in Eastern Passage.

Halifax Regional Municipal RCMP responded to a call of a break and enter at a residence on Megan Drive in Lawrencetown yesterday morning.

A neighbour was able to give the RCMP member a description of the vehicle and license plate.

Later that day, an RCMP member on patrol in Eastern Passage spotted the suspect vehicle on Cowbay Road.

A sixteen-year-old and an eighteen-year-old were arrested and will appear in Bridgewater Court at a later date to face charges of Break and Enter and Possession of Stolen Property.

The RCMP are investigating the possibility that the suspects have committed multiple break and enters in the region.

LOBSTER BOAT CREW RESCUED NEAR LIVERPOOL

Three crewmen including the captain of a South Shore lobster vessel are safe, sound and dry after being rescued earlier this morning.

The lobster vessel ... Brute Force ... out of Baccarro ... was pushed on to rocks at Coffin Island near Liverpool by a heavy surf and efforts to refloat the vessel failed.

Around 5 o'clock this morning, with several fishing boats standing-by, a search and rescue helicopter lifted the three men off the vessel to a waiting Coast Guard ship.

The men have since been transported to port.

At last word, Brute Force was still stuck on the rocks.

FIRE INVESTIGATION ONGOING

In light of some new information, Lunenburg County RCMP are seeking the public's assistance with an ongoing investigation in Lower Branch.

An unidentified male was seen in the area of the South Shore Truck Centre on North King Street shortly before two semi tractor trucks were engulfed in flames.

The vehicles were destroyed by the suspicious fire on August 22nd, causing two-hundred thousand dollars in damage.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Lunenburg County RCMP or Crime Stoppers.

BRASS BELL STOLEN FROM CEMETERY

A Shelburne woman says thieves who stole an antique brass bell from Roseway Cemetery have desecrated her ancestors resting place.

The relic that dates back to 1912 was stolen sometime between last Wednesday and Saturday.

Nan Holden was shocked to discover it missing.

"Disbelief. Total disbelief that somebody would actually remove that bell from the cemetery. It's sort of like knocking over tombstones...It's very personal to all of us in this community and people far beyond this community who have history with the church and the bell," says Holden.

Holden says the bell would ring out to parishioners every Sunday from Rosewood United, until the church was decommissioned in 1993 and torn down.

Shelburne RCMP say the bell, weighing hundreds of pounds would be no small feat to steal.

Sea Cadets Experience Thrill

Sea Cadets from Chester and Barrington Passage are among a group experiencing the excitement and challenges of life at sea. The cadets are on board HMCS St. John’s as the ship returns to Halifax after several weeks at sea conducting a Lieutenant Governor’s Cruise and providing assistance to communities along the Newfoundland’s Burin Peninsula in the aftermath of Hurricane Igor. The cadets are fully integrated into the Ship’s Company while on board, performing duties such as look-out and helmsman, while also assisting with food preparation and serving, engineering, supply, administration, and damage control.
The South Shore cadets include 16 year old Petty Officer Second Class Faith Richardson, 16, 327 Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps, Barrington Passage, and 14 year old Master Seaman Chelsea Collicutt, , 351 Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps, Chester. Only about 120 sea cadets across Canada take part in the experience annually.

Clearcutting Ban in Doubt

A ban on clearcutting may be canned by the province because of the cost of administering and enforcing a permit program. The Municipality of Chester has sent a letter to the Minister on behalf of small woodlot owners. Warden Alan Webber says following a presentation by the Ecology Action Centre, Council was asked to support an outright ban on clearcutting.Webber says in a general sense, at a high level Council agrees with the Centre's position, but are somewhat concerned with what
that means on the ground and how far Council goes in its support. He says there will be further dialogue before Council concludes it's final position.
The province is looking at alternate methods that will allow for the monitoring of clearcutting along with phased-in reduction targets.

OPERATION IMPACT

** Cst. Sara MacDonald viewing the vehicle registration and insurance of Tanya Burkholder.

Beginning Friday and over the holiday weekend, OPERATION IMPACT , a national campaign to make Canada's roads the safest in the world will be in full swing. The focus will be on behaviours that put drivers, passengers and other road users most at risk: impaired driving, seat belt use, and all aspects related to aggressive driving. All enforcement agencies across the country have been invited to participate. The Bridgewater Police Service,in support of Operation Impact,will be conducting Road Safety Checks throughout the long weekend.

Recreation Use Grant

Even though they're appreciative, they would like more money. The Town of Lunenburg has received a grant of 19 thousnd dollars from the Municipality of Lunenburg. The money is to offset the municipality's residents' use of the town's facilities, particularly the Lunenburg Arena. Deputy-Mayor Jamie Myra says there should be a fairer cost sharing arrangement and has called for a meeting with the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg. Meantime, Council has asked staff to research and report on other funding models in place elsewhere.

HUNTING FOR OAK ISLAND TREASURE

One treasure hunter says he's finding new clues of what lies beneath Oak Island.

Dan Blankenship and his team have received a treasure trove licence from the Nova Scotia Government allowing them to search the island until the new year.

But Blankenship is keeping mum about what they've found so far in their hunt for the centuries old cache.

"We keep finding evidence of different things, which were not about to divulge. But the big thing is that we haven't yet come up with anything we can put into the bank. It's all been expenditures. Nothing coming in, " says Blankenship.

Blankenship says a new business partnership has allowed his forty-five-year search to continue.

A magazine article, on the perils of the island and it's elusive treasure, inspired Blankenship to move from Miami and pursue his own hunt.

ALLEGED ASSAULTS IN MAHONE BAY

Two youths are facing multiple charges after an altercation in Mahone Bay this weekend.

A thirteen year old Cookville youth faces a charge of 'Assault Causing Bodily Harm' after he allegedly assaulted a younger boy on Orchard Street on Saturday night.

Later that night, a 16 year old Baker's Settlement boy was arrested and is facing charges of 'Assault Causing Bodily Harm' and 'Obstructing a Police Officer'.

Lunenburg County Police say the victims in each case were different but the crimes stemmed from the same crowd of roudy teens.

Both young men were released and will appear in Youth Court later this month.

POLICE ADVISE LOCALS, 'LOCK UP'

Lunenburg County RCMP are advising locals to keep their cars under lock and key after a string of thefts from vehicles.

On Saturday, four vehicles left unlocked in Hebbville, Wileville and Upper Branch had items stolen from inside.

Others in the area reported having their vehicles rummaged through, when left unlocked and unattended.

Constable Rob James says the incidents have alot in common and likely involve the same suspect or group of suspects.

The investigation is ongoing.

New Cardiac Monitors for South Shore Health

South Shore Health has received confirmation of funding for replacement cardiac monitors. The Department of Health has agreed to fund 75 percent, about 542 thousand dollars towards the purchase of 45 new cardiac monitors for the District.
The Health Services Foundation of the South Shore has agreed to provide 142 thousand to cover the remaining costs for the machines that will be replaced at South Shore Regional and Fishermen’s Memorial Hospitals. A request has also been made to the Queens General Hospital Foundation to fund the remaining costs for the montiors for the hospital in Liverpool.

Vital Signs Report Launched Tuesday

Lunenburg County Vital Signs report will be launched tomorrow, (Tuesday October 5th) at 7 p.m. at St. Mark’s Place in Middle LaHave. Residents will find out how well their community is doing on a number of measures of quality. The purpose of Lunenburg County’s Vital Signs is to provide a snapshot of the quality of life in the County. It also provides a framework to identify community trends, and explore opportunities for action. Issues surrounding housing, employment, crime rates, education, health and wellness, recreation and sense of belonging in the community are some of the areas covered. A similar study was conducted last year for the town of Wolfville.

Cleantech Tour

Innovative Nova Scotia Cleantech Projects will be showcased during a tour by Environment Minister Sterling Belliveau. The Minister will tour clean technology projects at municipalities, community organizations and businesses on the south shore today,Monday, October 4th and Tuesday, October 5th. The tour will begin at the Barrington Municipal Arena this afternoon beginning at 1:30 p.m. Other locations include Bridgewater, Lunenburg,Shelburne, and the District of Chester.

Lunenburg to get New Pumper Truck

The Town of Lunenburg is pumping in some cash to purchase a new pumper truck for the fire department. Cost of the 350 thousand dollar stock pumper truck will be cost shared 50/50 by the Town and Districts 1 & 2 Fire Commission. The Town's share will have to be borrowed. The fire department only has one pumper and if more than one fire call comes in is unable to respond. The Town has been calling out Mahone Bay Fire Department as required and to act as standby when necessary.

Chester Streetscape Study

A good turnout for the final public meeting on the Highway 3 Streetscape Project for Chester. Warden Alan Webber says about 75 to 80 people attended the session September 22nd at the Chester Legion. He says the consultant's draft report was well received as a good starting point but there were some very specific concerns that were raised. Webber says they're at the stage now where the consultants will go back, redraft based on the public comments, take it back to the Committee in its final draft form for recommendations. Webber says he anticipates with some modifications, it will be recommended to Council to move forward with the proposal on the streetscape study.
The idea behind the streetscape project is to shift the perceptions of the area from a highway thorough the community to an extension of the Village.

HIT AND RUN

Bridgewater Police are investigating after a hit and run on the corner of Queen and Dominion Streets.

Police say the driver fled the scene of an accident on Thursday afternoon.

The vehicle is described as a rusted, off-white Honda or Pontiac Grand Am with visible damage to the exterior.

Anyone with information on the crime is asked to contact Bridgewater Town Police or Crime Stoppers.

FEED THE METER

Those of you who park in downtown Bridgewater will soon have to feed the meter a little more if a bylaw passes second reading.

Town council has some new regulations in the works that will see parking meter fees and fines increase by at least double their current amount.

Metered parking will double to 50 cents per hour.

Violations will start at fifteen dollars, increasing to 25 if left unpaid for more than a week.

Mayor Carroll Publiclover says the changes could see parking revenues increase by over a third.

SOUTH SHORE HOUSING MARKET 'UNPREDICTABLE'

More properties are being listed on the South Shore real estate market as the cost of owning a home in Canada continues to increase.

And one local real estate agent is noticing some fluctuations in the housing market.

Exit Realty agent, Gary Mailman says increased taxation by municipalities and decreased lending by local banks is making for some concerned customers.

"Buyers are, this year especially, have been very cautious when making a purchase. They really are doing their homework which is good. They're very careful not to overpay, " says Mailman.

Mailman says he had a rough start to the year but his business has picked up.

According to the Nova Scotia Association of Realtors, both South Shore home listings and prices are up about 5 percent from last year while sales in our region are up 10 percent from 2009.

Mailman says you would need a crystal ball to predict how the market will fare in the future.

NEW MOTION HAS COUNCIL CELEBRATING

Are you celebrating your golden years, or your silver, gold or platinum wedding anniversary?

Well, it's guaranteed you'll be getting at least one letter of recognition in the mail this year.

Bridgewater Town Council has passed a motion that will see the town commemorating birthdays of town residents who are ninety years old or older, every year.

Additionally, couples will be recognized for twenty five years of marriage and every five years thereafter.

Councillors say they brought in the motion to ensure all major milestones are remembered.

Drug Seizure

Another seizure of drugs in Lunenburg County. RCMP with the assistance of the South Shore Integrated Crime Unit searched a residence in the New Canada area on Thursday September 30th. Police seized a small amount of marijuana, a small amount of cocaine, a 22 calibre rifle and ammunition. A male was arrested and will appear in Bridgewater Provincial Court next week.

Public Tours of Oak Island

If you've never seen it up close and personal but have harboured a long standing desire to visit Oak Island, you will get your chance this weekend. The Friends of Oak Island Society is holding another weekend of tours of the famous Island. Society spokesman Charles Barkhouse says Oak Island and the legend of Captain Kidd's buried treasure is known world-wide but the locals are somewhat lacking in THEIR knowledge about it. He says it's under appreciated by Nova Scotians in general. Barkhouse they want to bring more awareness about the island and they have the cooperation of the owners as far as opening it up to the public to let people see what the story is all about. The Society hosted an earlier weekend tour in July and Barkhouse says there was an overwhelming response. This weekend's tours will be at 10am, 2 and 5pm Saturday and Sunday.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! HAPPY ANNIVERSARY! FROM BRIDGEWATER TOWN COUNCIL

Are you frustrated with family members who forget your birthday?

Sick of reminding your spouse of the date of your anniversary?

Well, the Town of Bridgewater won't forget.

A new policy by town council will commemorate certain birthdays and special occasions.

Town residents, ninety years and up, can expect a letter in the mail.

Also...couples married for twenty-five years will be recognized on their silver anniversary and every five years thereafter.

Councillors say they brought in the motion to ensure everyone's milestones are remembered.

DRUG BUST IN KEMPT YIELDS POT PLANTS AND CHARGES

A 47-year-old man faces drug charges after police seized 285 marijuana plants and nine pounds of processed marijuana earlier this week.

Members of the South Shore Integrated Crime Enforcement Unit along with Queens District RCMP and Bridgewater Police executed a search warrant at a residence on New Grafton Road in Kempt.

The man faces charges of illegal production of marijuana and possessing marijuana for the purpose of trafficking.

No court date has been set yet.

The investigation continues.

HEBBVILLE SENIOR BUSTED FOR ALLEDGEDLY SELLING ILLEGAL SMOKES

A police search of a residence in Hebbville has resulted in the seizure of thousands of illegal cigarettes and charges laid against a 65 year old man.

The South Shore Integrated Street Crime Enforcement Unit with the assistance of Lunenburg County RCMP and Bridgewater Police executed a search warrant at a residence on Highway 3 in Hebbville.

Police seized 6-thousand illegal cigarettes.

The suspect faces charges under the Federal Excise Act and the Provincial Revenue Act when he appears in Bridgewater Provincial Court on December 1st.

SHELBURNE COUNTY ACCIDENT INJURES NORTHWEST HARBOUR MAN

The driver of a small pickup truck has been injured in a two vehicle crash on highway 103 in Clyde River.

Shelburne RCMP say the pickup was pulling out of the Ultramar service station and was T-boned by an on-coming small milk-delivery vehicle.

The driver of the pickup, a 36 year old man from Northwest Harbour, was sent to Roseway Hospital with undetermined injuries, thought to be NON-life threatening.

The driver of the delivery vehicle wasn't hurt.

Shelburne RCMP Sgt. Barry MacLellan says there may have been two contributing factors that caused the crash ... thick fog at the time of the crash and a transport truck parked in front of the service station that obstructed the view of the driver of the pickup.

MacLellan says charges may be laid against the tractor trailer driver.

Traffic was re-routed around the accident scene for about an hour.

The investigation continues.

Interrnational Epilepsy Conference at White Point

An international conference dealing with epilepsy wraps up today at White Point Beach Resort in Queens County. The two day conference focused on advanced neuro-imaging techniques in new onset epilepsy. The conference features a number of clinical scenarios,group discussions and interactive learning. Delegates are attending from Canada, The U.S., Brazil, Germany and the United Kingdom.

Riverfront Celebration

There's a kick off tomorrow to celebrate the riverfront development. Work has been underway on the revitalization since 2004. Improvement efforts include interpretative panels along the banks of the LaHave River, a major renovation to King Street Court, a riverfront park in the downtown core and a fountain in the river between the two bridges. The celebration is free and will run from 9:30 am to 2 pm including an official opening at 10 a.m.

EVENT SCHEDULE

8am King Street (Empire – Dominion) closed to vehicles
8am- 9:30 Celebration set up
9:00 am Cheer Intensity Demo (King Street Court)

MAIN STAGE KING STREET COURT
9:30 – 9:55 Fireman’s Band

10:00 OFFICIAL OPENING:

Piper Ron Leblanc, Town Crier, Ozzie Stiles,
ACOA – Government of Canada – MP Gerald Keddy,
NS Department of Health Promotion & Protection,
MLA Gary Ramey
Mayor Carroll Publicover (Mr Maughan)
Darren Lipsett, BDA Chair
Barb Thompson, Interpretive Panels

10:15 – 10:45 Bridgewater Firemen’s Band
10:45 – 10:55 Cheer Intensity
10:55 – 11:40 South Shore Ukulele Concert Group
11:40 – 11:55 Kipper’s Gymnastics demonstration
11:55 – 1:00 Twist of Fate
1:00 – 1:15 Kick Boxing demonstration
1:00 – 2:00 Naming the Twins

KING STREET & KING STREET COURT GAZEBO
Farmer’s Market ,Face painting,Clown on Stilts,Buskers
Food Vendors,Wine Tasting,
Demonstrations (kick-boxing, skateboarding, gymnastics)
Prizes,Intrepretive panels

Possible Use for Fox Point School

The Municipality of Chester has received a request for the use of the old Fox Point school. Warden Alan Webber says Council had determined that when the daycare moved out, the school would be put on the market to try to recover some of their money Webber says Council now has two requests to consider.. both from community based organizations.GPIAtlantic, founded in 1997 is an independent, non-profit research and education organization. It is committed to the development of the Genuine Progress Index, a new measure of sustainability, well being and quality of life. The group will return with a more formal presentation to Council next week.

Octoberfest Funding

An annual fall event at the Forties Community Centre getting a cash infusion from the federal government. MP Gerald Keddy announced a grant of 25 hundred dollars to support the annual Octoberfest. The funding is provided through the Building Communities through Arts and Heritage program. Phillip Broome, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Forties Community Centre says the funding will assist in the celebration of German Heritage of Lunenburg County. Oktoberfest takes place from October 11th to 24th, at the Forties Community Centre in New Ross.

Needs a Lift

A request has been submitted to the Department of Health for funding for upgrades to the existing elevators and for the addition of a third elevator at South Shore Regional Hospital. Both elevators were down and out of service on August 23rd.
C-E-O Alice Leverman says the elevators are original to the hospital when it was constructed 22 years ago. She says they are proposing the project be done in two phases. Phase 1 would be the construction of the third elevator which would cost approximately 1.7 million, while Phase 2 would be the upgrades to the existing elevators at an estimated cost of 350 thousand.

Sea Cadets/Information & Registration

Lunenburg Sea Cadets will be holding an information presentation and registration next week. Interested individuals are asked to meet at the Lunenburg Corps headquarters building at 93 Victoria Road, next to the bowling alley at 7 p.m. on October 6th. Sea Cadets open to those aged 13 to 18 offers a program that included leadership and citizenship training, development of public speaking skills, physical fitness, sailing, seamanship,marksmanship, music and biathlon.

School Mischief

They're calling it an act of mischief rather than vandalism. Queens County RCMP are investigating an incident at the Milton Centennial School. Sometime overnight on Tuesday, September 28th, a piece of playground equipment was broken . A leg was also broken off an ornamental cement bench. Anyone having information regarding the incident is asked to contact the Queens RCMP Detachment or CRIMESTOPPERS.

VP Health Services Appointed

Janet Simm has been appointed to the position of V-P Health Services at South Shore Health. Simm is currently Director of Policy, Planning and Decision Support with health Association, Nova Scotia. She has extensive knowledge of health system issues and experience in acute care and community health settings and has developed strategic partnerships at both the provincial and national level. Her appointment takes effect October 18th.

Dial-for-Dining

It's not like being in a five star hotel, but South Shore Health patients will be able to Dial for Dining next month. Food and Nutrition Services are in the process of implementing a room service model for patient meal service. The program will improve quality and client satisfaction my offering patients more choice and flexibility. C-E-O Alice Leverman says Dial for Dining allows patients to eat what they want , when they want, which will greatly reduce food waste. Patients will be able to order during selected hours from a standard menu. The service which will start at South Shore Regional Hospital October 16th, will also be expanded to Fishermen's Memorial in Lunenburg and Queens General in Liverpool.

Land Conservation

An official partnership agreement to conserve land in Mahone Bay will be formally signed Thursday, September 30th. John MacDonell, Minister of Natural Resources, will sign an agreement with the Mahone Islands Conservation Association to acquire and protect more land in Mahone Bay. The signing will take place at 3 p.m. at the Mahone Bay government wharf.

POLICE INVESTIGATE PEPPER SPRAY ASSAULT

Bridgewater Town Police are investigating an unusual assault.

Saturday at midnight, police found a seventeen-year-old boy dousing himself with water on the corner of Queen and Dominion Street,

According to the Bridgewater resident he had been attacked near Bridgewater high by another male wielding pepper spray.

Deputy Chief John Collier says emergency response took special measures to help the young man recover.

"(The victim) was then transported to the South Shore Regional Hospital by police for treatment and it was this individual who was later assisted by the Bridgewater Fire Department. Apparently he needed a great deal of decontamination," says Collier.

Collier says the suspect could face charges of assault or assault with a weapon.

Police continue their investigation.

THREE MEN ARRESTED, STOLEN GOODS RECOVERED

Three people have been arrested after a break-in and theft last night at a seasonal residence in Woodstock.

The male suspects, ages 22, 33 and 42 were apprehended by Lunenburg County RCMP not long after the incident on Dory Mills Road and stolen goods were recovered from a vehicle.

The suspects were released and will appear in Bridgewater court at a later date.

The investigation continues.

ROAD CLOSURE

The road may be closed but King Street is still open for business.

Starting tomorrow the intersection of Dufferin Street and King Streets including a portion of King Street will closed to through traffic.

Bridgewater Town Engineer, Harland Wyand says the construction of a new storm surge should not impede shoppers.

" We just want to clarify that there should not be an impact. Anyone in the travelling public should feel free to come in to King Street and park in South parkade or along King Street during the construction period, "says Wyand.

Wyand says pedestrian walk-ways will also be accessible.

It will take workers at least two weeks to construct a new storm surge underneath the roadway.

Hospital Overcrowding

Hospital overcrowding continues to be a challenge for South Shore Health. C-E-O Alice Leverman says additional long term care beds will be opening later this fall, 18 in Lunenburg and 12 in New Germany. Leverman says hospital overcrowding causes a lot of concern and frustration for patients and families. They may experience delays in admission, long wait times or transfers to other hospitals for care and surgeries may also be cancelled. She says it also creates a stressful working environment for staff.
A new director of Access and Flow has been put in place . Efforts are also continuing to enhance access to primary care and community based supports that help seniors and others remain independent, healthy and safe in their communities and improve patient flow through the system.

South Shore Health AGM

South Shore Health's annual meeting is set for 6 o'clock tonight at the new Best Western Hotel. Both Community Health Boards will be among 17 displays showcasing their work to improve the held of the community. C-E-O Alice Leverman says there will also be displays by a number of the Health Authority's program areas. At 7 o'clock there will be a video featuring true life stories from individuals impacted by South Shore Health's services followed by a panel discussion. The business portion of the Annual General Meeting will follow at 8 p.m.

TWO BUILDINGS DESTOYED BY FIRE

Barrington RCMP are investigating after two suspicious fires took place this weekend.

RCMP responded to a call at a fish plant at Bull's Head Wharf in Stoney Island. They arrived in the early morning hours of Saturday to discover that the large building and the fish products contained inside were completely destroyed by fire.

The second fire occurred Sunday evening. RCMP arrived to find a storage building on Kennedy Street in Clarke's Harbour also completely incinerated by fire.

Island and Barrington Fire Department were assisted at both scenes by several other detachments and a Fire Marshall investigator.

Barrington RCMP are seeking help from the public in their investigation.

Anyone with information regarding these crimes are asked to contact Barrington Detachment or Crime Stoppers.

WOMAN ATTACKED BY ANOTHER IN LUNENBURG

RCMP in Lunenburg are looking for a woman believed to have been involved in a fight with another woman last evening on Lincoln Street in the town.

A 28 year old woman was assaulted after the two had words.

The alledged assailant was apparently accompanied by three other females and a male prior to the assault.

The group was seen running down Falkland Street following the attack.

The victim was treated for a head injury at South Shore Regional Hospital and later released.

RCMP are investigating and searching for the assailant described as about 22 years of age with long, dark hair.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Lunenburg County RCMP or Crime Stoppers.

WOMAN INJURED IN LUNENBURG STREET ASSAULT

RCMP in Lunenburg are looking for a woman believed to have been involved in a fight with another woman last evening on Lincoln Street in the town.

A 28 year old woman was assaulted after the two had words.

The alledged assailant was apparently accompanied by three other females and a male prior to the assault.

The group was seen running down Falkland Street following the attack.

The victim was treated for a head injury at South Shore Regional Hospital and later released.

RCMP are investigating and searching for the assailant described as about 22 years of age with long, dark hair.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Lunenburg County RCMP or Crime Stoppers.

Poppies Tax Exemption

Seems it was all a misunderstanding. The Municipality of Lunenburg was asked for a letter of support regarding a request to the Prime Minister to exempt Legions from paying the 5 percent GST on the purchases of red lapel poppies. The initial request came from St. Catharine's City Council. However, further clarification was sought and Mayor Don Downe says it was determined that there is no sales (HST/GST) charged by Dominion Command to Provincial Commands and Branches. There is HST charged on the manufacturing of Poppies but this is paid by Dominion Command at the time of purchase. Further, poppies are not sold, monies received are donations which are then deposited in the Poppy Trust Funds for the benefit of veterans and their families across Canada.

Service Capacity/Operational Review for MODL

Ramp Up Consulting of Halifax, the winning proposal to conduct a Service Capacity/Operational Review for the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg. Council budgeted 35 thousand dollars for the review in the 2010.11 operating budget and has received 10 thousand in funding from the province for completion of the project. Seven proposals were submitted and based on the evaluation criteria, Ramp Up Consulting although not the lowest price, scored the highest. Council awarded the proposal at a cost of 43 thousand 300 dollars. Three councillors and the C-A-O will work with the consultant. A preliminary report is expected by December.

Trucking Services for LRCRC

Maughan's Construction of Bridgewater has been awarded a two year contract to supply on-site trucking services for the Lunenburg Regional Community Recycling Centre. Four bids were received but two were rejected because they were incomplete. Lunenburg Municipal Council awarded Maughan's the tender for 44 thousand 827 dollars, 53 hundred under budget.

SCHOOL TRIPS SCALED BACK

Students on the South Shore now have a quota on their field trips.

The South Shore Regional School Board has limited the number of bus trips per day.

Only eight extra-curricular treks will be provided by Transportation Services.

Organizers will also have to give a full weeks notice and trips will be granted on a first come first served basis.

School Board member, Gary Mailman says the new rules could be problematic for sports teams who can't give full notice or for students in rural districts who rely heavily on provided transportation.

STUDENT GRAY ZONES IN QUESTION

The South Shore Regional School Board is attempting to streamline it's bus routes.

The board is seeking feedback from parents and guardians on some proposed plans to limit which school a student may attend.

Superintendent Nancy Pynch-Worthylake says no changes will be made before thorough consultation.

"Once the board hears from the public, the board will make a decision; will they continue to offer busing to more than one school or will they make a decision that student in a certain geographic would go to particular school? ," says Pynch-Worthylake.

Pynch-Worthylake says saving money on transportation will help direct increased funding at educational programs for children.

School Board representative,Trish Smith says districts where students have the option to attend a number of schools are in question under the proposed changes.

Smith says all options provided in the prospsed plans allow students to be grandfathered at their current school.

For more information on the month-end meetings visit ssrsb.ca

Missing Motor

The Mounties are on the look-out for a missing boat motor. The theft occurred during the overnight hours of September 23rd, The Honda, four-stroke 15 horse power outboard motor, silver in colour was taken from 396 Old Kettle Road in Mill Village. The motor had been chained to a boat was was stored on the property.
Anyone having information regarding the incident is asked to contact the Liverpool RCMP or CRIMESTOPPERS.

Drug Charges

A Bridgewater man is facing charges following the seizure of a quantity of prescription medication at a residence on Henley Drive . The 41 year old is charged with possession for the purpose of trafficking and will appear in court for plea November 24th. Meantime a 34 year Maitland resident will appear in court the same day on charges of illegal production of Marihuana and possessing marihuana for the purpose of trafficking . A quantity of processed marijuana was seized during a search of a residence on Highway 325 in Maitland.

Truck Tips Over

A bit of a scare but no series injuries when a garbage truck flipped in the ditch in Newburne yesterday. Apparently the driver of the truck pulled over to the side of a narrow dirt road to let another vehicle pass by. The shoulder of the road gave way beneath the truck and it tipped over. An RCMP spokesman says it was a pretty minor incident with less than a thousand dollars damage.

Stunting Charges

A second "stunting" charge has been laid within four days by the Integrated Impaired Driving Enforcement Unit based out of Chester.. The charges are the result of drivers travelling at speeds in excess of 50 km/h over the posted speed limit of 100 km/h. In one case, the speed exceeded the posted limit by 80 kilometres per hour. Two males ages 19 and 20 were issued immediate 7 day licence suspensions, fines of 24 hundred dollars and had their vehicles seized for 7 days. The incidents took place at Exits 8 and 9 on the 103 Highway.

Share the Warmth

It's only Fall but the cold weather will be on us before you know it. Atlantic Fabric's in Oakhill is presenting its ninth annual "Share the Warmth" next Monday and Tuesday, September 27th and 28th from 9am till 9pm at the Bridgewater Fire Hall. Atlantic Fabrics is donating quilt batting, thread and backing for quilts and customers are being asked to donate their scrap fabrics for the quilt tops. People are also being asked to volunteer some time to make up the quilts which will be distributed to the areas shelters for bedding.
In the past six years, volunteers have collectively made over 28 hundred quilts which are now being enjoyed at over 14 shelters and organizations across the province.

Solar Energy for Town Hall

It came down to quality. Bridgewater Town Council has approved a tender for the supply and installation of of a solar thermal energy system at Town Hall. Scotian Renewables was awarded the contract for 102 thousand 721 dollars, over budget by 22 thousand dollars. Mayor Carroll Publicover says despite the overrun, it was the best way to go. The company achieved a better all-round design with higher quality components, a stronger offering of customer service, and better and more qualified corporate experience. Funding for the project is coming from the Federal Gas Tax. The Town can expect to achieve a simple payback of its solar costs in about 6 to 8 years.

Business Excellence Awards

Eighteen businesses in Lunenburg and Queens have been selected as finalists from more than 100 nominations received for the Lunenburg Queens Business Excellence Awards.The category winners will be announced at the gala Awards Dinner being held this year at Atlantica Hotel & Marina Oak Island on October 4th, 2010. As well as the honour of being deemed leader in their category, the finalists will be vying for a beautiful plaque crafted by Amos Pewter of Mahone Bay. The Nominations are:

ENTREPRENEURIAL AWARD:
Helping Nature Heal, TecBox, and The Nodding Group
EXPORT ACHIEVEMENT AWARD:
MacIntyre-Purcell Publishing Ltd., HEKA Electronics Inc., and LP East River (Canexel)
HOSPITALITY AWARD:
Fleur de Sel Restaurant, Bridgewater Comfort Inn, and White Point
LARGE BUSINESS AWARD:
High Liner Foods Inc., J.M. Reynolds Pharmacy, and Julien’s Pastry Shop Ltd.
NEW BUSINESS AWARD:
School House Gluten-Free Gourmet, Able Engineering Services Inc., and Apple Berry Farm Market
SMALL BUSINESS AWARD:
Windhorse Farm, Meisner & Zwicker Construction Ltd., and Safe Home Security

The guest speaker at this years awards ceremony is Aileen Reid, Founder and CEO, A.P. Reid Insurance Stores Limited.

BIDDING FOR MUSIC

The Region of Queens Municipality is funding a bidding war.

Council awarded ten thousand dollars to a group trying to bring Nova Scotia Music to the Region of Queens in 2011.

Mayor John Leefe says there is no guarantee, but hopes their contribution will land them the winning bid.

"We anticipate that this will be a good investment at a low tourism time of the year, to encourage people to come and stay in Queens and enjoy all the wonderful things that are here, including wonderful music, " says Leefe.

The municipality will find out if they won the bidding war during this year's Music Week which gets underway in Yarmouth on November 4th.

CAP SYSTEM 'UNFAIR', MAYOR LEEFE

The Region of Queens Municipality Mayor says the Provincial CAP system is hurting the people its supposed to protect.

John Leefe says many of his constituents don't realize how harmful the taxation system is to the value of their homes and their savings in the bank.

"The people who capping was supposed to assist most is people on low incomes, which almost always is people who live in modest housing. Modest housing does not increase in value as much as rapidly as more upscale housing, yet it's upscale housing that tends to be capped," says Leefe.

Leefe says homeowners who want to maintain a cap on their homes are also reluctant to sell, and that's stunting the real estate market.

The municipality is recommending the CAP system be phased out and replaced with a series of low income exemptions and deferral programs.

The province says the system was introduced in 1995 to protect Nova Scotians from dramatic increases in market values.

OPERATION IMPACT

Lunenburg County RCMP will be undertaking a traffic initiative from October 8th to the 11th. Called OPERATION IMPACT, the enforcement-driven initiative is designed to increase public compliance with safe driving measures and ultimately, to save lives. Part of the activities will involve targeted enforcement in the areas of impaired driving. The other part is an education campaign to address the importance of safe driver behaviour. The Mounties also want to raise the public's awareness of Road Safety Vision 2012- to make Canada's roads the safest in the world.

Supporting the Arts

The province is seeking advice and opinions from the arts and culture sector on government's role in supporting and fostering artistic and cultural activity. Public meeting are scheduled for a number of communities including the Town of Liverpool on Wednesday Ocober 6th from 7 to 9:30pm at the Lions Hall on Gorham Street. Percy Paris, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Heritage says with the consultation, government is taking the first step toward keeping its commitment to address governance and funding for the arts and culture sector. A summary report will be made public after the consultation process.
Information regarding the online, mail and fax surveys is available at www.gov.ns.ca/tch/culture-consultation.asp .

Anterless Deer Stamps Available

Hunters are getting another shot at for antlerless deer stamps. The Department of Natural Resources has announced that 688 antlerless deer stamps are still available for deer management zone 103, which includes Lunenburg County,Halifax and parts of Hants, Queens, Kings and Annapolis counties.
The remaining stamps will be available on a first-come,
first-serve basis starting at 7 a.m.,today Wednesday, September 22nd. Applicants are reminded that antlerless deer stamps are not transferrable or refundable and you may apply only once.
To apply for one of the zone 103 stamps applicants must:
-- be a resident of Nova Scotia
-- be eligible to hold a 2010 deer hunting licence
-- be 16 years of age or over
-- hold a Nova Scotia Wildlife Resources Card
-- not already hold a 2010 antlerless deer stamp in any deer management zone
-- not have suspended hunting privileges

Applications will be accepted by phone at 1-900-565-3337 or at www.gov.ns.ca/natr/draws/deerdraw/ for $7.25 plus HST. Calls cannot be made from cellphones.

ROCKY ROAD FOR THE REGION OF QUEENS

The Mayor of the Region of Queens says the municipality should not be paving the way for the province.

John Leefe says the municipality should not have to pay the Department of Transportation for maintenance of J-class roads in the region.

"They're are not municipally owned roads, yet the province is requiring the municipality to take property taxes for maintenance and service. Really, we shouldn't have to pay anything towards them...but we are required and we have no choice, " says Leefe.

Leefe says the the municipality is being discriminated-against.

He says they pay more than 250 thousand dollars in annual maintenance when regions, like Clare, pay nothing.

Leefe says the same bureaucrats who created the payment mandate in 1995 are still in power today.

PURCHASES APPROVED, REGION OF QUEENS MUNICIPALITY

Region of Queens Municipal council has approved a 14 thousand dollar budget for new computers and a server system for their offices.

Mayor John Leefe says the current system is seven years old and is long overdue for the garbage heap.

The purchase will be funded from the Computer Equipment Reserve.

Meanwhile, council has also approved the purchase of a 2010 Chevrolet Canyon four-wheel drive truck.

The extended cab pickup truck will replace the Bylaw Enforcement Department truck that was recently damaged in an accident.

STAND-OFF ON ITALY CROSS ROAD

A Lunenburg County man is facing charges after an armed standoff with police.

Lunenburg County RCMP responded to a complaint last night of a combative, intoxicated man at an address on Italy Cross Road.

Police say they were immediately engaged in standoff with a male suspect who was brandishing a knife.

After a few minutes, the subject was subdued and taken into custody.

He will appear in Bridgewater Court later today to face charges of 'Breach of Probation' and 'Possession of a Weapon Dangerous to the Public Peace'.

Anyone with more information on this incident is asked to contact Lunenburg County RCMP or Crime Stoppers.

HIDE-AND-GO THIEF

Many children slip under the bed to hide from ghosts and goblins but one local robber decided to use the same ploy to hide from police.

Shelburne RCMP responded to a call of a break and enter on Woodlawn Drive on Saturday night.

While at the scene, police received a second report of a break and enter down the road.

Police say they eventually found the seventeen-year-old hiding under the bed.

The accused Shelburne resident appeared in Yarmouth Provincial Court on Monday to face two charges of break and enter and one charge of breaching probation.

Hydrant Fees

The Municipality of Luneburg has accepted a cost-sharing proposal from the Northfield Fire Department regarding funding of the hydrant fee. The fire department was asked to cost-share the maintenance fees for hydrants along MacCulloch (Ma-CULL-ah) Road and within the Exit 12/Osprey Village Development. The department has agreed to pay two thousand dollars in 2010 and 11. The hydrant fees will increase to three thousand dollars for 2012 and 13 and five thousand dollars for 2014. Fire Chief John McKay says the fire department will re-evaluate its support at the end of 2014 unless expenses increase to the point the department cannot afford the payments. Should that happen, the department will hold discussions with council to either alter or stop the payments.

Bridgewater Bails on Bus System

Bridgewater is backing out of being part of a joint-transit system proposal for the next two years. Along with Bridgewater,the towns of Mahone Bay and Lunenburg, and the Municipality of Lunenburg were exploring the implementation of a a hybrid Lunenburg County model, integrating fixed route services with on-demand services . Studies show start-up costs for a municipally owned and operated service could total more than 555 thousand dollars to be cost-shared between the partner units. Allocated TRIPP funding for an analysis and action plan will be put into a reserve fund.

Temporary Traffic Lights for Haven Drive

Trying to get on North Street from Eisenhaur Place or Lahave Heights will get a little easier in the near future. Town Council has awarded the tenders for temporary traffic lights at Haven Drive. Solar Signals Inc. of Ontario has been awarded almost 19 thousand dollars for the supply of the majority of the components. The one exception, a separate tender for 22 hundred dollars to Tacel Ltd. of Ontario for the pedestrian push buttons. That company's push buttons are more rugged and vandal resistant than all the other manufacturers. The target date to have the lights operational is November 1st.

Cemetery Commission to be Dissolved

Bridgewater Town Council is in the process of undertaking the dissolution of the Brookside Cemetery Commission. Deputy-Mayor David Walker who also chairs the Cemetery Commission says it was discussed for a private operation to come in, however, the cemetery will be run and operated by Town staff. The Commission itself recommended to Council to begin the dissolution process conditional on the development of a mechanism to assure community input and involvement. The Commission manages the Brookside Cemetery which is owned and operated by the Town. The management function of the Commission allows its members to make "Binding" agreements for the perpetual care and maintenance in good order, or for any designated time of any lot, grave, tomb, monument or enclosure in the Cemetery. The Cemetery Commission for the Town of Bridgewater has managed Brookside Cemetery since 1930.

Bridgewater Listed by WCB

It's a list the Town of Bridgewater doesn't want to be on. The Worker's Compensation Board has named the town on its list of employers with bad safety records. The list is 16 percent longer this year. WCB reports that 92 employers will receive a surcharge in 2011, up from 79 this year. An employer’s claims costs must be at least three times their industry average for at least four consecutive years to be surcharged. Surcharges are cumulative and can add an additional 20 per cent to a firm’s base rate each year. Before they are surcharged, employers receive two warnings – one in each of the preceding two years.
Mayor Carroll Publicover says the CAO is looking into the matter and will report on the impact on the town in terms of dollars, and how to get off the list. Publicover says he doesn't have the specifics, but they're probably public works kind of accidents that made the list and the police force could even come into play.

LIFE RAFT AND WRECKAGE RE-IGNITE SEARCH

Search Boats are back out on the water today after a life raft capsule and life ring were found.

Both items, marked with "RLJ" were found yesterday evening by two fishing vessels headed to sea.

Police say the life raft capsule appeared to be intact and it is believed the raft is still inside.

The fishing vessel "RLJ" was last heard from on September 10th. At the time she was six nautical miles from St. Martins, New Brunswick.

RCMP from Digby Detachment and RCMP Patrol Vessel "Preventor" continue to search the waters of the Bay of Fundy today.

The initial search effort was called off on September 14th.

THIRD PARTY WILL CONDUCT CENSUS

The village of Chester is planning on distributing a census.

The voluntary questionnaire will be used to gather information regarding residents and business owners within the village limits.

Iris Tolliver with the Chester commission says council came up with the idea when planning for Lido pool.

"When they were going to do their renovations with the Lido pool. The question came up, 'how many people who use the pool live within the village boundaries?' The information was no where to be available and the idea gained momentum from that," says Tolliver.

Tolliver says both council members and Chester citizens questioned the merit, privacy and accountability of a commission-made report.

That's when council decided to bring in a third party.

Tolliver says the party has not been selected and the cost of the project is still undetermined.

PARK PLAN PROCESS SLOW, SAYS MAYOR

Mahone Bay Town Council is getting the cold shoulder.

Town council has seen a slow response to their proposal to turn the waterfront into a designated park.

Mayor Joseph Feeny says he has yet receive word from the three churches and the proprietor of the Teazer gift shop has said they're not interested.

Feeny says some people who use the area bring with them loud music, noisy cars, foul language and drinking. But not everyone uses the space the same way.

"The problem for the RCMP officer is, if he tells me to leave because I'm being noisy. He has to tell you to leave, regardless of whether your being noisy or not because that's the way it is. Everyone has to be treated the same," says Feeny.

Feeny says erecting signs with closure times for the area would help give police some control.

If plans for Edgewater Park are approved the area would be closed to the public from 11 pm to 5 am, every night.