SSRSB Votes to Not Censure Karen Reinhardt

Karen Reinhardt

11 alleged breaches in the South Shore Regional School Board's code of ethics wasn't enough to deter members to censure one of their own. Karen Reinhardt survived a 7-4 vote from her colleagues, after the board couldn't reach the required two-thirds majority needed to oust her. The Board needed eight votes to remove Reinhardt, receiving seven with member Jill Francis not present. Reinhardt says its back to business as usual.

"Well, I feel, actually relieved, of course. I don't know if I can say I feel vindicated because the vote was very close, but I'm pleased that the process is behind us and that I'm going to be able to serve the students."

Reinhardt says she was upset over the allegations, calling them unfounded and unsubstantiated. Board Chair Elliott Payzant says Reinhardt has been quiet to him over the allegations.

"She has never responded, saying that any of them were not true, so if she said tonight that they were untrue, it's the first I've heard and I have discussed all of them with her and she had not refuted any of them prior to this evening."

Both Reinhardt and Payzant say they hope the Board can move on from this issue and continue working together. Education Minister Ramona Jennex is still waiting on a report from Deloitte Inc., to make her decision on the board's actions during the March 30 school review process.

NS Gov: $6.5 M Help Purchase Land for Protection

The Nova Scotia Government has earmarked $6.5 million dollars to purchase land so it can be protected. Community Services Minister Denise Peterson-Rafuse made the announcement in Chester this morning and says the funds will be available in the new fiscal year. It's only the second time in Nova Scotia's history that government is releasing some details of its capital plan in advance of the spring budget. Peterson-Rafuse talked to reporters about the significance of that move.  "This is about communities identifying the areas they want to preserve, it's not about what the government wants. In order to be able to do a good job in anything that you do in life - you have to have a plan and that's what we're trying to do,".  The province has a legislated goal to legally protect 12 percent of its land by 2015. Consultations on what land to protect is already underway and the public is invited to comment until February 12. The land that will be selected for protection is based on ecological and environmental importance.  For more information on the province's goal and protected areas in Nova Scotia, visit http://gov.ns.ca/nse/12percent/

Lumberjacks Acquire Langille from Dieppe

The CIBC Wood Gundy Lumberjacks have added another defenseman to their roster. The Jacks acquired 18-year-old Craig Langille from the Dieppe Commandos, in exchange for an 8th round pick in 2013 and future considerations. Head Coach and General Manager Terry Rhindress says its a good pickup for his club.

"He's a first year kid out of Midget 'AAA' , but at a frame of 6'3 and 210 pounds, he doesn't move too bad. He's a physical guy. His presence alone should settle things down in the defensive zone and kind of make some guys play a little bigger because he is a big kid."

Langille played 16 games with Dieppe this season, registering no points and 14 penalty minutes. He's expected to be in the lineup for the Lumberjacks this Thursday night against Metro.

Bluenose II Launches Online Store

Bluenose II Lapel Pin/Courtesy Wayne Walters

There's a new online store dedicated to selling Bluenose II swag. Nova Scotia firm Blue Cow Creative Design and Production Ltd. was awarded the contract to build the store. The Director of Operations with Bluenose II, Captain Wayne Walters, says the store will accomodate people, both on the South Shore and away from the area.

"We had a lot of inquiries from people around the world who couldn't come to Lunenburg and see the work going on, so we thought we would get the online store going so people could buy something that would remind them of the project because they can see it online through the webcams as it is now."

Walters says items including books, model kits and photographs are available for purchase at the online store. For a look at what the online store has to offer, head to http://www.bluenose2store.ca/ .

Hunters Helping the Hungry

 Once again this year hunters are helping the hungry.  For the sixth year in a row, hunters are giving to food banks across the province.   They donate deer and moose meat to the Hunters Helping the Hungry program, which distributes it to Feed Nova Scotia  foodbanks.   Natural Resources Minister Charlie Parker says the province is proud to work with Feed Nova Scotia and others to help make life better for Nova Scotia families.   Hunters have donated 3,553 kilograms of meat to Feed Nova Scotia over the past five years.
         To donate deer or moose meat, hunters may take carcasses to one of 18 participating, registered meat cutters in the province and indicate the amount of meat they want to donate. Feed Nova Scotia then distributes the meat to 150 member food banks provincewide. For more information on this program and other ways Feed Nova Scotia is helping hungry families, visit http://www.feednovascotia.ca/ .

SSRSB to Debate Censuring Reinhardt

South Shore Regional School Board members are about to debate censuring one of their colleagues. Karen Reinhardt breached 11 sections of the Board's code of ethics. Board members voted 6-4 last Wednesday, in favour of deferring a decision until Monday night. Reinhardt is expected to be at the meeting, which begins at 7pm at the School Board office.

No Band-Aid Fixes For Bowater - Dexter

Premier Darrell Dexter says the province is in discussion with Bowater Mersey on a potential assistance package. However, officials are facing a January 1st deadline to come up with a savings package that Resolute Forest Products will have to accept in order to keep the mill open. Dexter spoke about the potential deal during a closed door meeting with almost all of the South Shore's mayors and wardens in Liverpool last week.  He told reporters before the meeting that the province doesn't want a band-aid solution for the mill. "We want to look for technologies that will be more energy efficient which of course yields a benefit over the long term. These are the kinds of things we want to look for, we want to make sure the plant isn't just sustainable for a year - but over the longer term,". The Region of Queens Municipality extended an olive branch to the company last week as well, council approved a 10 year-deal that will lower taxes for the mill by $135,000 annually. The Board of Directors at Resolute will ultimately decide the future of the mill in December.

Local Sports Scene - Jacks edge Mariners

A former Mariner haunted his old team last night as the visiting CIBC Wood Gundy Lumberjacks edged Yarmouth 2-1. Shawn Boudreau, who was traded to Bridgewater a week ago, had a goal and an assist for Jacks. Michael Crawley potted the winner midway thorugh the third while Billy Clarke turned aside 32 shots. The South Shore Canadian Tire Mustangs have been knocked out of the Monctonian Major Midget Hockey Tournament. After going unbeaten during round robin play the Stangs fell 5-0 to Dartmouth in last night's  wild card playoff game. It'll be Sir John A. MacDonald against Yarmouth in the championship game at the Glen Murray Highschool Hockey Tournament. In last night's semis Sir John A topped Parkview 5-3 while Yarmouth blanked Bridgewater 5-0. Today's final faces off at 1:30 at the Bridgewater Arena. The Bridgewater Senior Girl Vikings are Western Region Highschool Volleyball champs. Playing on their home court the Vikes advanced to the Provincials with a straight sets win over Middleton. Bridgewater goes for a fifth straight title in two weeks.

Antique Pocket Waches & Cash Taken From Liverpool Home

Approximately 10 antique gold watches and some cash has been taken from a home in Liverpool. RCMP are investigating a break in at a home on Main Street in the community. Police say the items were stolen on Thursday night between 5 PM and 9:30 PM. Anyone with information on the crime is encouraged to phone the Liverpool RCMP or Crime Stoppers.

South Shore Hockey Scene - Glen Murray, Monctonian & Junior A

The Barrington Barons and Sir John A. MacDonald Flames lead the way at the annual Glen Murray Highschool Hockey Tournament in Bridgewater. Both clubs are 2-0. Highlights from Friday's action included the Barons 8-2 win over Digby and Parkview's 5-0 victory over the Bridgewater Vikings. That contest was forfeited in the third period when the Vikings ran out of players. Action kicked of this morning at 8:30 with Bridgewater facing Digby. Four more round robin contests follow. The semi finals are slated for 7 & 8:30 this evening. Meanwhile, the South Shore Canadian Tire Mustangs go for their third straight win this afternoon at the Monctonian Major Midget Hockey Tournament. The Stangs wrap up round robin action against the St. John's Privateers at 12:30. A win or a tie will clinch a playoff spot for the locals. The CIBC Wood Gundy Lumberjacks are on the road tonight as they face the Mariners in Yarmouth. The Junior A Jacks have lost two straight while the Mariners are coming off a 2-1 overtime win against Amherst. Gametime is 7:30 at the Mariner Centre.

Lock Your Vehicles

Lunenburg County RCMP advising residents to lock their vehicles, even in their own driveways. There's been a recent rash of thefts from vehicles in the Pine Grove area with at least 10 complaints. Staff-Sgt. Bruce Hill says all of the vehicles that had items removed from them were not locked at the time of the theft. Hill says at night, vehicles should be parked close to the house, and if possible, keep an outside light on and remove all valuables

Hit & Run at Gows in Bridgewater

Bridgewater police are hoping to find out who's responsible for a hit and run in the parking lot at Gows Home Hardware this week. The incident occurred on Tuesday afternoon sometime around 2 or 3 o'clock. Police say a black dodge was left with a large dent on the truck's box. The person responsible left the scene before exchanging information with the owner of the truck. Anyone who may have seen this incident is asked to call the local Bridgewater detachment or Crime Stoppers.

Mustangs Improve to 2-0 in Moncton

The South Shore Canadian Tire Mustangs moved to 2-0 at the 'Monctonian' tournament in New Brunswick. Josh Shatford scored and added three assists in the Mustangs 5-2 win over Charlottetown Friday morning. Shaun MacEachern had a goal and an assist for the second straight game. The Mustangs take on the St. John's Privateers at 12:30 Saturday afternoon in their final round-robin game.

Park View, Bridgewater Square Off in Glen Murray Hockey Tournament

Park View Boys 2011 Hockey Team

Another chapter in the Bridgewater-Park View rivalry hits the ice Friday night. The two local high school teams square off in the Glen Murray Hockey tournament. Park View Assistant Coach Mark Seamone says it promises to be an exciting game.

"Bridgewater and Park View has always been a big rivalry. We're hoping fans will come out and support both local teams, and like I said, it should be a good game with the rivalries that have gone on in the past."

The two teams face-off at 7pm, directly following the tournaments opening ceremony at 6:50.

Bridgewater Justice Centre Receiving Security Upgrades

Justice Minister Ross Landry

Bridgewater's Justice Centre is getting security upgrades. The province announced the local Centre is one of 10 courthouses Nova Scotia-wide to receive funding to make the building safer. The Centre is getting new closed-circuit cameras and an upgraded alarm system. The communications advisor for the Department of Justice, Dan Harrison, says the upgrades will improve building security.

"We don't believe safety or security at the courthouse is compromised right now, we think our courts are very safe. But, we see areas that we think we can do better and improve."

The province is investing $2-million into the 10 courthouses, but Harrison couldn't confirm how much money Bridgewater would receive. The upgrades at the Justice Centre won't begin until roughly Spring 2012.

Closure This Weekend at the ED in Lunenburg

The emergency department at the Fisherman's Memorial Hospital in Lunenburg will be temporarily closed this weekend. There won't be a doctor available beginning at 2 o'clock on Sunday until 7:30 Monday morning. Anyone requiring immediate medical assistance during this time is asked to phone 9-1-1 or visit the South Shore Regional Hospital in Bridgewater.

Dexter: Province Will Support Those Who Lose Their Jobs @ Bowater

Mayors and wardens representing almost all of the South Shore's municipal units participated in a closed door meeting with Premier Darrell Dexter Thursday night. No word on what specific items were on the agenda last night but discussions centred around the future of the mill and how the province may be able to help.  Dexter told reporters the province will be there to support those 110 workers who will lose their job. “I was very clear with them. If some of them, for example, need retraining, if they need training or support through that transition period, its going to be available to them,”  Dexter says he stands behind the decision unionized members at the mill made this week in what he called an industry under an extraordinary amount of stress. The Premier travelled to the Bowater Mersey Paper Mill in Brooklyn yesterday in a show of support for the workers and local management.

Police Break Up Outboard Motor Theft Ring

Lunenburg County police have charged six people in relation to an outboard motor theft ring. Police say over 30 boat motors were seized from vessels in Lunenburg County between July and the first week of November. Investigators believe the boat motors were sold by contacting buyers through the internet. Computers, laptops, and cell phones believed to be used in the commission of the offences were seized by police.  The matter remains under investigation. Police are hopeful further investigation may result in the recovery of some of the stolen motors. Six people ranging in age from 17 to 44 are facing a total of 59 charges. They have all been released on conditions and are scheduled to appear in Bridgewater Provincial court on January 25, 2012. The four men , one woman, and a 17 year old boy were arrested on November 15th.

The following individuals have been charged:

- Alan George James, aged 44, of Mader's Cove, Lunenburg County
(18 counts of Theft )

- Denise Marie Bond, aged 38, of Chester Grant, Lunenburg County
(17 counts of Theft )

- Michael Amos James, aged 19, of Mader's Cover, Lunenburg County
(3 counts of Theft )

- Scott Reeves, aged 24, Mader's Cove, Lunenburg County
(12 counts of Theft)

- Jesse Albert Hamm, aged 21, Blockhouse, Lunenburg County
(7 counts of Theft)

- A 17-year old male, Lunenburg County
(2 counts of Theft)

High Liner Foods Reaches Agreement to Acquire Icelandic Group's U.S. and Asian Operations

High Liner Foods of Lunenburg has struck a deal to purchase Icelandic Groups U.S. and Asian processing plants. The transaction is valued at roughly 230.6 million dollars U.S. High Liner's Executive VP and Chief Financial Officer, Kelly Nelson says the Icelandic stakeholders were worried about a couple of things..one, their worldwide brand of the parent company of the assets, which is Icelandic Seafood. Nelson says High Liner was able to come up with very creative ways of licensing the brands for a long period of time as well as developing a distribution agreement to make sure that the Icelandic harvesters continue to get access to the U.S. market.  The acquisition includes Icelandic USA's processing plant in Newport News, Virginia, as well as subsidiaries that operate a processing plant in China and procure product from other Asian countries. High Liner is acquiring several brands in connection with the acquisition and has agreed to a seven-year royalty-free licensing agreement with Icelandic Group for the use of the Icelandic Seafood™ brand in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The transaction is expected to be completed later this year or during the first quarter of 2012.

Mustangs off to New Brunswick for Monctonian Tourney

The South Shore Canadian Tire Mustangs are in New Brunswick for the annual 'Monctonian' tournament. The local major midget club opens up their round-robin Thursday night against the Miramichi Rivermen. Head Coach Tim Boyce says it's key to open the tournament with a win.

"It's kind of tough, you know, we've never seen the team play. Obviously, you approach every game the same, you want to worry about what you're doing on the ice and not what the other team is doing. The first game of any tournament is always the most important, you want to get off to a good start."

Boyce says he expects the tournament to be a good test for his club. The Mustangs take on Miramichi at 5:30 Thursday evening in Moncton. They also play Charlottetown and St. John's during their round robin.

Glen Murray Hockey Tournament hits the ice

Park View Panthers 2011 Boys Hockey Team

One of the top high school hockey tournaments along the South Shore gets underway Thursday night. The 9th annual Glen Murray tournament kicks off Thursday evening with two games including the Park View Panthers hosting the Sir John A MacDonald Flames. Panthers Assistant Coach Mark Seamone says the Flames won't be taken lightly. He says he believes his team has a great chance to defend their title. The Flames and Panthers open the tournament at 6pm, followed by the Bridgewater Vikings taking on the Liverpool Warriors at 7:45. All games are held at the Bridgewater Memorial Arena.

Province Invests $750,000 into Fisheries Museum Design Study




Lunenburg West MLA Gary Ramey, left, with Lunenburg MLA Pam Birdsall

 










The province is spending $750,000 on a design study for the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic. Lunenburg MLA Pam Birdsall made the announcement at the Museum Thursday morning. She says the study will provide options to address future maintenance needs for the Museum. Meanwhile, the mayor of Lunenburg calls the funding announcement for the Museum a "positive" for the town. Laurence Mawhinney says it's an important step for the building's future.

"These buildings wear out, they weren't built to last forever and ever and there's a lot of use to this building, a lot of weight in this building and it does need to be properly engineered and designed so that it's going to be stable and stabilized for the next 40 to 50 years."

Mawhinney says the Museum is a major attraction on the South Shore and applauds the government for their support. The money is coming out of the capital plan for 2012-13, meaning the study won't begin until sometime after the beginning of the fiscal year next spring.

Resolute Forest Products: "It's an Important Development"

The VP of Communications for Resolute Forest Products - formerly Abitibi Bowater - called last night's vote by union members to accept concessions from the company at Bowater Mersey an important development. However, Seth Kursmen gave no assurances it will be enough to keep the mill in Brooklyn in operation. In an interview with CKBW/HANK FM News, Kursmen says the companies January 1st deadline to come up with a new management/labour plan to make the plant financially viable remains in effect. "We cannot have a mill continue to be in a losing position. There are multiple pieces that need to come together in order to correct the situation. You know, our timeline remains and we all need to stay focused on the goal," Kursmen says the company will continue to work with government and other stakeholders to address the various challenges the mill is facing. He wouldn't say when negotiations on a new collective agreement will begin.

Municipality of Queens Extend Olive Branch to Bowater Paper Mill

The Region of Queens Municipality has given the green light on a 10 year tax freeze for Bowater Mersey. The municipality voted on the deal this morning at a special meeting, which means a savings of approximately $135,000 annually at the mill. The motion passed unanimously. Mayor John Leefe says the municipality is simply trying to do its part to try and keep the mill open. Meanwhile, the Municipality of Lunenburg is expected to follow suit this week. They're set to sit down with Bowater executives later this afternoon. On Wednesday night union locals 141 and 259 voted to accept contract concessions, meaning 110 workers will be out of a job. The vote was 104-97 in favour of accepting concessions. Negotiations on a new collective bargaining agreement are expected to begin in the near future. Meanwhile, Premier Darrell Dexter will be in Liverpool at 3pm today to address the current situation at the Mill. CKBW/HANK FM News will have more on this developing story.

Razor-Thin Vote To Accept Concessions @ Bowater Mersey Mill in Brooklyn

Unionized workers at Bowater Mersey have narrowly voted to accept contract concessions that include cutting 80 full-time and 30 casual positions in an effort to save the paper mill. Members of CEP Local 141 and 259 voted 51.7 per cent in favour of accepting the concessions during a secret ballot Wednesday night. Union President Courtney Wentzell was clearly dejected as he delivered the news to a handful of his co-workers at the union hall in Brooklyn.  Meanwhile, Brian Godfrey has worked at the mill for over 30 years and says the result, if anything, means there's some hope. No word on when negotiations between the company and union will commence. Wentzell didn't take any questions from reporters or reveal how many of the union's 228 members voted.

BREAKING NEWS: Unionized Workers at Bowater Mersey Accept Contract Concessions by Slimmest of Margins

Members of CEP Union Local 141 and 259 at Bowater Mersey have narrowly voted to accept a proposal from Resolute Forest Products - formally Abitibi Bowater - which includes massive job cuts. In total, 51.7 percent of those who cast a ballot, voted in favor of negotiating a new collective bargaining agreement with the company. It means 110 employees at the mill are going to lose their job. That includes 80 full time and 30 casual positions. The reduction in the workforce represents almost half of the union's membership and will leave 128 employees left to operate the mill. Union President Courtney Wentzell was clearly dejected as he delivered the news to a handful of his co-workers at the union hall in Brooklyn on Wednesday night. No word on when negotiations between the company and union will commence. Wentzell didn't reveal how many of the union's 228 members voted.

Voting on Company Proposal Underway in Brooklyn

Unionized members at Bowater Mersey are voting on a critical proposal that could wipe out nearly half their membership. Resolute Forest Products - formally Abitibi Bowater - is looking to cut 80 full time and 30 casual positions at the mill in an effort to reduce costs. Union President Courtney Wentzell says the company is looking for concessions in almost every area of their collective agreement. He says even if workers accept the proposal - there's no guarantee it will save the mill. More than 200 members with CEP Local 141 have been dropping by the union hall in Brooklyn to cast their ballot. Voting began early this morning and will take place until 8 PM. The company is threatening to close the mill if they can't find a way to cut costs. CKBW/HANK FM News will have more on this story later tonight.

Park View Boys Host Home Openers

Park View boys open their basketball season Wednesday night on two fronts. The JV team hosts Forest Heights at 5:30 before the Division one squad welcomes their cross town rivals from Bridgewater to play at 7:30. Division one Head Coach Eric Whynot says its a great game to start their season.

"It's that town rivalry that's been around for many years and you always wanna get off, any game you play, you want to play to win and it's more so important because all your friends and your family for both schools are in the gym and you want to start on the right foot."

Both games will be played in the Park View gym and are open to the public. Park View's Division one girls game, originally scheduled for Wednesday night, has been cancelled.

Collyer Moves Into New Role - Police Chief

There's a new Chief of Police serving the Town of Bridgewater. Veteran officer John Collyer was recently promoted from within the local detachment and officially sworn in during a ceremony Monday night in council chambers. Collyer says he's looking forward to his new role and serving residents of Bridgewater. Collyer is originally from Dartmouth and moved to the area in 1990.  He takes over for Brent Crowhurst who has accepted a job with the Criminal Intelligence Service of Nova Scotia.

Mounties Charge South Shore Woman with Fraud

A Lunenburg County woman is facing numerous fraud charges totalling more than $80,000 dollars following a month long investigation. Forty-seven year-old Sandra Skinner is facing five counts of fraud over $5000 and is set to make her first appearance in Bridgewater on January 18th. Police launched the probe following a complaint from the province's Department of Health and Wellness in September. During the investigation, Mounties discovered that Harbour View Haven Nursing Home submitted claims requesting reimbursement for capital projects. In each instance, the work was either not completed, the goods not purchased or the goods not approved. Harbour View Haven is located in Lunenburg and has been serving the community since the 70's.

Crucial Union Meeting in Liverpool Tonight

Unionized workers at Bowater Mersey's Brooklyn paper mill have a lot to consider before voting tonight (Wednesday) on a company proposal to keep the operation going. Members of CEP Local 141 packed a hall on Monday night to hear details of what union officials are calling a ``take it or leave it'' proposal. The mill's owners want to trim 80 full-time and 30 casual positions from the workforce to reduce costs. Union president Courtney Wentzell says the concessions being demanded are too much. He says even if the membership accepts the latest proposal, there's no guarantee the mill will remain open.

SSRSB Tables Motion to Censure Karen Reinhardt

The South Shore Regional School Board has decided to table a motion to remove one of its board members from their position. Karen Reinhardt breached 11 sections of the board's code of ethics but will get a chance to state her case when members hold another meeting next Monday. The board passed a motion to table the censure motion by a 6-4 margin, with Reinhardt and board member Clifford MacLeod not present. School Board Chair Elliott Payzant says he believes board members want to make a decision with Reinhardt available. Reinhardt is overseas but was expected back November 10. She was unable to make the meeting after missing flights in Ghana and Frankfurt. The School Board will hold another meeting at 7pm Monday November 21.

Bridgewater Councillor Praises GAP Draft Plan

David Mitchell

The draft plan for Generations Active Park is getting a lot of praise from a member of Bridgewater town council. David Mitchell says Ekistics Planning and Design has put together a solid plan, that appeases to all residents and stakeholders. He says the plan took him by surprise.

"It surpassed my expectations. You know, I had in my head the way I thought that the dog park should look or splash pad should look and I'm not a designer and I'm sure everyone had their pre-conceived notions of what it would look like. It just blew me out of the water. It is stunning."

Mitchell says the $2.4-million dollar project would be phased-in over the next 10 years if the final plan is approved. The final version is expected to be presented to Bridgewater town council December 12. People can still have their say on the plan by visiting http://www.bridgewater.ca/.

Police Seek Driver

Bridgewater Police are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a male driver who approached a teenaged female earlier this week. The incident is alleged to have happened around 11:30 Monday morning (November 14th) in the area of Dominion Street.  The man is described as in his mid-40's with a slight build. He was wearing a baseball cap with a white top and a blue brim, and a white t-shirt. The man was driving a blue teal coloured Chevrolet truck with no license plate and asked the girl to get in his vehicle. When she decliend, the man left the area.

'Canada Day on the LaHave' Holds Annual General Meeting

Treasurer David Walker

It may be early, but Canada Day will be on the minds of many Tuesday night in Bridgewater. The 'Canada Day on the LaHave' committee is holding its annual general meeting. The meeting will focus on electing new officers and deliver the annual financial report. But Treasurer David Walker says, the meeting will also talk about improving future Canada Day's in Bridgewater. The public meeting gets underway at 7pm Tuesday night at Bridgewater High School.

SSRSB Hold Censure Meeting

The South Shore Regional School Board is holding a special meeting Tuesday night, to vote on a motion to censure a member or members of the board. The Board will raise a motion on the matter, followed by an in-camera debate and a public vote. No details have been released on why a member or members could be censured. The South Shore Regional School Board has never censured a member. The meeting will be held at 7pm Tuesday night at the School Board office.

End of the Line for "The Village at Glen Allan Project"

The Town of Bridgewater has nixed a development agreement with a local developer for a proposed condo project. Council voted unanimously to cancel their development agreement with Bridgewater based Jo-Lo development and "The Village at Glen Allan Project" at their regular meeting on Monday. The parcel of land on Roundhouse Drive has been a hot button issue around the council table over the past year with a number of councillors expressing their frustrations on Monday. Mayor Carroll Publicover told reporters last night he's relieved by the decision and adds the land now reverts back to more of a predictable development pattern. Councillor David Mitchell says they had no other option but to discharge the agreement following numerous extensions and second chances. Jo-Lo development has indicated they are still interested in building single family housing on the property.

Decision Day Looms for Workers at Bowater Mersey

Members of CEP Union Local 141 at Bowater Mersey packed a union hall in Liverpool Monday night to hear the devastating details of what's being billed as a "take it or leave it" proposal. Abitibi Bowater wants to trim 80 full time and 30 casual positions from the workforce at the mill in order to reduce costs. In an interview with CKBW/HANK FM News this morning, Union President Courtney Wentzell slammed their employer and called the concessions "huge" and simply "too much". Even if the membership accepts the latest proposal - Wentzell says there's no guarantee the mill will remain open. "Most of us agreed last night after much discussion that the four and half years that Abitibi's been here and merged...taken over the Bowater company basically...they've done more damage to our community, to our membership, to our mill then Bowater ever did in 80 years it was here," He says the proposed cuts would be felt province wide and create a ripple effect in the industry. The membership will vote on the proposal at a meeting tomorrow night (Wednesday) in Liverpool.

Fire at White Point Deemed Not Suspicious

The fire at White Point has been deemed not suspicious. The Fire Marshall's office and Queens County RCMP say they came to that conclusion after examining the remains of the popular resort. They also say the blaze started in the basement of the main lodge. The cause of the fire is still being investigated.

Queens MLA Reacts to White Point Fire

The MLA for Queens County says the loss of the White Point Beach Resort is devastating to the area. Vicki Conrad says the community is experiencing a run of bad luck with issues including the potential closure of the Bowater Mersey mill in Brooklyn. Conrad says she's very sad and feels a total sense of loss for the community. She says between 100-200 people work at the resort, depending on the time of year. The resort is due to undergo renovations in January. Conrad says she's optimistic, the lodge will be rebuilt better than ever.

Western Hurricanes Move Into First Place in NSBHL

The BMO Western Hurricanes have vaulted into first place in the Nova Scotia Major Bantam Hockey League. The South Shore club defeated the Truro Bearcats 5-2 Saturday night and scored a 4-0 victory over Newbridge Academy Sunday afternoon to move into top spot. The Hurricanes have now won eight straight games and lead the league with a 12-2 record.

Bridgewater Police Looking for Home Invasion Suspects

Bridgewater Police are looking for suspects involved in a Remembrance Day home invasion. Police say two masked men entered a home on Aberdeen Road sometime around 6:40pm November 11. A struggle happened between the suspects and the resident before the two men fled on foot. The victim was taken to South Shore Regional Hospital to get checked out and released. Anyone with information is asked to contact Bridgewater Police.

White Point Beach Resort GM Overwhelmed by Community Support

The General Manager of White Point Beach Resort says he's energized by an outpouring of community support following this weekend's devastating fire. The fire began in the basement of the popular Liverpool resort and spread quickly, ultimately consuming the main portion of the lodge. Danny Morton says he knew White Point was a special visiting place but not to the degree he's witnessed over the past few days. "I think about a situation on Sunday morning right after the fire where we still had a number of guests staying at the hotel, we were hosting a breakfast for those still staying at the resort and instead of having less food at the end of the breakfast, I think there was more. People in the community were stopping by with baked goods for people they didn't even know," Three investigators remain at the site as they try to determine how the fire began. Morton says it will be hard to pin-point the fire's exact cause but foul play isn't suspected.

Province Offers Support & Encouragement to Staff of White Point Lodge

Economic and Rural Development and Tourism Minister Percy Paris offered support and encouragement to the staff of White Point Lodge and the surrounding community today,
(Monday, Nov. 14). The main lodge was destroyed by fire over the weekend. Paris applauded the management and staff of the resort, fire departments and volunteer firefighters and community members saying their efforts reflect the feelings people have for the lodge. He says it's an important piece of the tourism industry to the southwestern region of Nova Scotia.  Paris spoke with management and staff after touring the site with owner Robert Risley, general manager Danny Morton and MLA Vicki Conrad. He says he's encouraged by the optimism to rebuild and move on from what is a devastating loss.

Sugar & Spice

Just like a scene from a storybook, there will be over 100 decorated gingerbread men running around the village of Chester. From November 19th until Christmas Chester will once again be filled with Gingerbread houses. It's the annual Gingerbread House Competition and this year gingerbread men will complement the houses on display at various merchants and businesses throughout the Village. Festivities start with the presentation of The Gingerbread Man; The Story of “John Dough” at the Chester Playhouse, noon on Saturday, November 19th. The Grande Finale will be a Family Christmas Party hosted by St. Stephen's Church in the Parish Hall, on Sunday, December 18th, 2-4 pm, at which time the awards for the Gingerbread House Competition will be presented.  Other activities during the Festival will be a Gingerbread Bonspiel November 19th, a Tree Lighting Ceremony November 25th, children's Gingerbread House workshop December 4th and a candle or ornament-making workshop on November 20th. From November 24th through to the 27th, from 10 until 5 pm each day, there will be a Victorian Christmas Craft Sale hosted by the Heritage Society at the newly restored Lordly House.
     For additional information on Chester's Gingerbread Festival please visit the Chester Art Centre's website http://www.chesterartcentre.ca/

Shellfish Harvesting Ban Imposed

A harvesting ban on shellfish in several communities along the South Shore will remain in effect for the remainder of the week. The ban is precautionary because heavy rains on Remembrance Day may have raised bacterial levels in the water. Chief of regulations for the Maritimes region, Rick Young, says waters within three kilometres of the shoreline in Lunenburg, Queens and Digby counties are closed. Officials from Environment Canada and the Food Inspection Agency will conduct tests later this week to ensure the products are safe to eat. Young says officials from DFO have posted signage in areas where the ban applies. The biggest concern is with mussel, clam and oyster harvesting. Scallops can still be harvested.

High Liner Foods Negotiating with Icelandic Group

High Liner Foods is still in talks to complete a deal to secure Icelandic Group's assets but where those negotiations are headed is anyone's guess. High Liner was the successful bidder in a global auction last month to acquire Icelandic's US and Chinese processing and marketing assets. The company has been in exclusive talks with Icelandic ever since. The potential deal would make the Lunenburg based company the continent's biggest marketer of frozen value-added seafood products. However during a conference call last week, High Liner President and CEO Henry Demone gave no assurances that a deal would be finalized any time soon. Should High Liner succeed with the acquisition, it would double its U.S. business. The company had sales last year of $585 million with about half of that total from the United States. Canada's largest seafood processor has its head office in Lunenburg and is a major producer of shrimp, salmon and cod. It employs more than 1,000 people.

Abitibi Bowater Wants to Cut 80 Jobs at Brooklyn Paper Mill

The President of CEP Union Local 141 at Bowater Mersey says 80 jobs are on the line if the membership decides to move forward with the latest proposal from their employer at the Brooklyn Paper Mill. Courtney Wentzell says the latest offer from Abitibi Bowater was presented during a meeting last week in Montreal.  Wentzell called the concessions "huge" and says he will present the entire proposal to the membership at a meeting this evening in Liverpool. "The meeting will happen tonight at 6PM at the union hall, so we're going to present the latest offer and see what the membership want to do with it," The company has set a deadline of January 1st to come up with a management/labour plan to make the plant financially viable. The mill currently employs close to 300 people.

Investigation into White Point Beach Resort Underway

The RCMP and Fire Marshall's Office are beginning an investigation into Saturday's fire at the White Point Beach Resort. The blaze at the popular resort over the Remembrance Day long weekend destroyed the main building. Close to 100 emergency personnel worked the fire for more than 6 hours on Saturday. Sergeant Jeff Wells with the Queens RCMP told our newsroom no injuries are reported. He says officials will be working to determine the fires exact cause this week. The lodge is home to over 100 employees and was due to close in January for renovations.

More Concessions Needed From Union @ Bowater Mersey

Significant job cuts are on the table following a meeting between union officials at Bowater Mersey and their parent company Abitibi Bowater. The two side met last week in Montreal. Union President Courtney Wentzell says the membership is faced with numerous concessions including a reduction in staff. The company also wants to lower the cost of labour from $97 a tonne of paper to $80. Wentzell stated last week that the union has already made big sacrifices. Just over 170 workers have already taken a 22 per cent wage cut in the last two years to help the mill stay competitive. Other concessions are in the works. Queens and Lunenburg are considering lowering municipal taxes for Bowater facilities in each county. Premier Darrell Dexter is expected to continue dialogue with representatives from the mill, union leaders and lumber producers to figure out what can be done to keep the mill open.