Bridgewater Councillors take aim at local MLAs

Councillor Bill McInnis

Councillor David Mitchell

A pair of Bridgewater councillors are sounding off about local MLAs voting in favour of First Contract Arbitration. Bill 102 passed late last week in the Legislature with Lunenburg MLA Pam Birdsall and Lunenburg West MLA Gary Ramey supporting their government's decision. Bill McInnis had some advice for the two politicians.

"I think those two MLAs should seriously consider resigning for what they've done to our town, potentially what they have done to our town."

McInnis says it was a very serious decision and should not have been supported by the local MLAs. Meanwhile, Councillor David Mitchell also chimed in, saying it was a questionable decision.

"It's pretty clear that they weren't necessarily listening to the people and as MLAs, their job is to be the representatives of the people at the provincial level."

Mitchell says he's concerned because the decision could halt Michelin's investment into their provincial plants including the South Shore.

Local Author to give Lecture on Swissair 111 Crash

A Chester Basin author is bringing his theory about what may have brought down Swissair Flight 111 to Mahone Bay. Paul Palango, widely known for three books about the inner workings of the RCMP, will lead a lecture on the 1998 disaster this afternoon. The crash was attributed to a fire caused by faulty wiring in the attic of the plane but Palango suggests that terrorists were responsible for the crash and the fire on the plane wasn't accidental. Palango says his interest in the crash peaked a few years ago when he was contacted by the lead forensics investigator on the disaster. "I wasn't really that interested in the beginning because I thought it would be some kind of conspiracy theory but as I went through the documents and the scenarios involved it became clear to me and others who I shared this with that there was something else going on here," The lecture will take place at the Mahone Bay Centre at 2 PM.

Environmental concerns cause additional costs at Centre jail

The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg is shelling out an extra $8,000 after some environmental concerns were found at the Centre jail property. Strum Environmental found asbestos under floor tiles and needs to sample and analyze ash material discovered under one of the outbuildings. The company completed work on the asbestos issue for $2,833.96 plus HST and is asking for another $4,880 plus HST to sample and test the ash material. Strum Environmental's original contract was $21,413 and will increase to $29,125.96 as a result of the findings. A report from the Department of Engineering and Public Works says test results of the ash material will be received in the next 15 days.

Giant Tiger donates $2,500 to Bridgewater Interchurch Food Bank

Giant Tiger in Bridgewater has given a major donation to a local food bank. The store raised $2,500 for the Bridgewater Interchurch Food Bank last Tuesday. The store gave one dollar from each sale towards the food bank. Store Manager Shane Demmings says they sold a variety of items to help raise the money. He urges people to continue to donate to food banks in the area. A cheque presentation was held Tuesday at the Bridgewater Interchurch Food Bank.

Whynott's Settlement: Accident

A South Shore man is in good condition despite an unusual accident this morning in Whynott's Settlement. His vehicle skidded off an icy highway 325 just before daybreak and landed, partially-submerged, in a brook. Lunenburg RCMP officers found the back-window had been kicked out but the driver couldn't be found. Staff Sergeant Bruce Hill says they feared he might have been swept downstream. "Oak Hill and Dayspring Fire Department were on the scene and they had a boat - so as a precaution we had them search the river in case someone had been in the water or if there was any evidence. About 45 minutes later we found the gentleman had got out of the car and was at a friends residence,"  He was taken to South Shore Regional Hospital for treatment of minor injuries. This was one of several accidents on Queens and Lunenburg County roads this morning caused by black ice. No serious injuries were reported.

GAP final plan receives in principle approval

Generations Active Park has been given a preliminary go-ahead. Bridgewater town council approved the Ekistics Planning and Design final plan in principle during Monday night's meeting. Mayor Carroll Publicover says he's pleased that the plan will not only attract Bridgewater residents but other visitors from across the region. The park's plan includes a leash free dog space, a splash pad, over eight kilometres of trail and multi-use courts. The plan would cost the town approximately $3.1-million over 12 years. The Department of Parks and Recreation will study the Generations Active Park plan over the next month before the issue is expected to be back in front of council in January.

Fryday Dorey running for provincial PC party presidency

The first name has been thrown into the hat to become the new president of the Nova Scotia PC party. The current executive vice-president, Janet Fryday Dorey, announced her decision to run late last week. Fryday Dorey says she believes in helping party leader Jamie Baillie form the next provincial government. She has served the party in many roles including manager for South Shore - St. Margaret's and Chester - St. Margaret's campaigns. Fryday Dorey is looking to replace current PC party president Robert Batherson, who recently said he's stepping down to spend more time with his family.

South West Health: Tick Update in Yarmouth Co

Those ticks collected from wooded areas in Gavelton in Yarmouth County carry the bacteria that causes Lyme disease. Officials at South West Health says there's no reason for alarm if people keep protection in mind when outdoors during the mild temperatures. Wearing light-colored, long sleeve shirts, pants and socks so the ticks show up, checking clothing and exposed skin after being outside and making sure grass is kept well trimmed are among suggestions. The Black-Legged tick has also been found recently in parts of Lunenburg County, Blue Rocks, Garden Lots, Heckman's Island and First Peninsula. The unusually mild weather this fall has been keeping ticks active. Usually they die-off in cold conditions.

Acadian Lines Hoping for an end to Lockout

A lockout of Acadian Lines bus drivers is at a standstill with Christmas only two weeks away. It's the busiest time of the year for the bus company as people are shipping packages and trying to get home for the holidays. The labour dispute isn't disrupting service within Nova Scotia but those hoping to get back home from either New Brunswick or PEI are out of luck. Company spokesperson Marc Varin says they are hoping for a resolution soon. "We realize this is a very bad time of year, not only for passengers but we also carry parcels and envelopes as part of our express service and that's also a busy part of our operation but right now unfortunately we're can't ship in those two provinces," Buses are still running in Nova Scotia because the company's employees are part of a different union. However, packages can only be shipped as far as Amherst.

Baillie Disappointed with First Contract decision

Nova Scotia PC Leader Jamie Baillie

The leader of Nova Scotia's PC party says South Shore MLAs have let their constituents down. Jamie Baillie says Gary Ramey, Pam Birdsall, Vicki Conrad and Denise Peterson-Rafuse decided not to listen to resident concerns after voting in favour of First Contract Arbitration. The bill passed by a 27-18 vote in the legislature late last week. Baillie says it's a bad decision because it could kill future investment in the province by local companies like Michelin, Sobeys and Clearwater. The NDP government believes the legislation will increase productivity by avoiding strikes or lockouts.

Man Charged with Child Luring

A Lower Northfield man has been arrested following an investigation into luring a child over the internet. The 30-year-old appeared in court Friday afternoon and was remanded in custody until December 14. The man has been charged with three counts each of luring a child, invitation of sexual touching and sexual interference. He's also been charged with two counts of trafficking a controlled substance and one count each of possession of a controlled substance and possession of a prohibited weapon.

Lumberjacks Heating up at Home

The captain led the way as the CIBC Wood Gundy Lumberjacks edged the Campbelton Tigers 5-4 last night in Bridgewater. Jake Bullen had three goals, plus an assist, as the Jacks won for the third time in four home starts. The clubs were tied at 3 entering the third period before Bullen potted a pair to clinch the victory. Tonight the Jacks head to Amherst to face the first place Ramblers before a date in Woodstock tomorrow against the league-leading Slammers.
 
Tonight in Bridgewater there's Major Midget hockey when the South Shore Canadian Tire Mustangs host the first place Halifax Titans. Gametime is 8 o'clock.

Despite Balmy Temps Normal Ski Season Expected

Ski operators in Nova Scotia aren't panicking over the spring-like temperatures we've been experiencing. Temperatures have been balmy with highs reaching 16 degrees in recent days in the South Shore. Andy MacLean of Ski Martock says he' s confident the hill will still have a good season. Officials at Martock are hoping to open before Christmas again this year but MacLean says they'll need temperatures to dip below freezing for a few days in a row. He says some snow wouldn't hurt either.

"Car Shopping": Not just a Holiday Crime for Bridgewater Police

Bridgewater's police chief is stressing the need for residents shopping or browsing downtown stores to lock their vehicles. A number of cases have been reported in the past few weeks where items - including cash - have been taken from unlocked vehicles. John Collyer says police deal with these issues all the time and the holiday rush is no different.  He advising residents to lock their doors, take valuables inside and keep important items out of sight. Collyer says the street word for the crime is called "car shopping". Cash has been taken from unlocked vehicles at least twice in recent days. Other items targeted include Ipod's, camera's and cell phones.

Conrad: Fires back at Liberals and Tories over Bowater Package

The MLA for Queens took a shot at the Liberals and Conservatives this week for their stance on the NDP's plan for Bowater Mersey. New Democrat Vicki Conrad says their opposition to the $50 million dollar deal won't be forgotten by the people of the South Shore. Conrad made the comments after Liberal MLA Manning MacDonald called the pulp and paper industry a "dinosaur industry" during question period. Hundreds of families in Queens, Lunenburg, Shelburne, Digby, Annapolis and Halifax depend on the mill for their livelihood. The life-line from the NDP earlier this month assures the mill will remain in operation for at least five years.

Chester Warden: Big Decision Looms on Wild Rose Park

Councillors in Chester are set to debate the future of Wild Rose Park in Western Shore later this month. The Municipality of the District of Chester is faced with a decision on whether or not to engage itself in keeping the park fully accessible for public use. Large parts of the park are located on Crown Land while other areas are privately owned and divided into 12 separate parcels of land. Warden Allen Webber says council has been keeping an eye on the situation for more than a year and now have to decide whether or not to inject in the situation. "I've been here for 30 years, and never, have we ever, expropriated anybody's property and for good reason - it's a very extreme measure. However, extreme circumstances sometimes call for extreme action. It's an available tool for us, whether we use it or not remains to be seen, but let me be clear - we'll negotiate with land owners on a case by case basis to acquire their interests. Should we go down that path"  Webber is urging the residents of Chester and the surrounding area to attend a meeting on the mater on December 22nd. The meeting will begin at 8:45AM. Information packages are available at the Municipal office in Chester.

Phone Scams around the South Shore

Shelburne RCMP are looking into a telephone scam involving computers. Numerous residents have been getting calls regarding this scam for weeks. Mounties says those behind it claim to be a computer consultant who require access to the persons computer because it was attacked by a virus. From there, the fraudsters proceed to erase the victims hard drive but police says it's unclear if any personal information is obtained. In another case, residents are being offered a service keeps personal computers or laptops secure from viruses at a cost of $120 per year.  Mounties says the consultant told people they were based out of New York and were of East Indian decent. The RCMP is reminding the public not to give out any personal information over the phone and to report any suspicious calls to your local police or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre Phonebusters at 1-888-495-8501 or http://www.phonebusters.com/

Power Outages across South Shore

Thousands of South Shore residents are without power at this time due to the high winds. About 400 households and businesses in Queens County lost power between 9-10 Thursday morning. Close to 2,000 residents in Shelburne County are also without electricity. Around 1,000 homes in Lunenburg County have lost their power as well. Nova Scotia Power says service should be restored to those areas no later than 3:15 this afternoon. The NSCC campus in Shelburne has been closed for the day after losing its power. The Tancook Ferry is out of service until further notice Thursday because of extreme high winds and waves.

Fairview Inn set to be demolished; Police say no charges will be laid

**Pictures taken of the Fairview Inn Wednesday December 7**

A Conquerall Mills company begins work Thursday morning on tearing down one of the oldest Inns in NovaScotia. C & T Construction is expected to have two excavators on site of the Fairview Inn on Queen Street. The company's owner, Craig Fancy, says they've already removed most of the metal from inside the building. He says it's just a matter of time before the building is demolished and the site is clear.

"Once we get it on the ground, I think it will go pretty quick. We have to get the trucks to haul it away to Chester, so it does take time."

The building's ruins will be taken to the Kaizer Meadow Landfill in the Municipality of Chester. Fancy is asking residents to remain away from the Fairview Inn site while its being demolished because of safety concerns. Meanwhile, Bridgewater Police Chief John Collyer says no charges will be laid after fire destroyed the Inn June 4. Collyer said in a release Wednesday that the fire marshal has concluded he cannot determine the exact cause of the fire.

Mayor unaware of Tethering issue in Municipality

The mayor of the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg says he's not aware of a tethering issue with dogs in the area. The Nova Scotia SPCA is pressuring municipalities to protect pets from being tied up outside too long. Downe says he would like the SPCA to make a presentation to council on the issue. He says the municipality's current bylaw deals with dangerous dogs, dogs at large and dogs that constantly bark. The SPCA is claiming municipal bylaws don't do enough to protect the pets. They are asking for chains to be at least five metres long and away from trees and bushes to prevent dogs from getting tangled.

Decent Catch - Low Prices

Analysts, government and industry officials are calling this ... one of the best lobster fishing seasons in years. However, one of the ironies is ... while catches are as good, if not better than last year, market prices are lower. Provincial Fisheries Minister Sterling Belliveau says there's concern. Lobster is selling for about 3 dollars and 25 cents a pound. Some fishermen have resorted to selling their catches roadside where they can easily get a couple of dollars more per pound. The season opened a week ago and ends next May.

Chapter Ends at Sagor's Bookstore

Its been a fixture of the downtown commercial landscape of Bridgewater for decades. Now though, after 40 years, Sagor's Bookstore is closing. Owners Ron Topp and Susan Goodwin say times have changed, hi-technology is taking over and sales are dwindling for book sellers in general. Topp says after 4 decades, life is going to be very different for the two of them. "It's a big part of our social life actually and that's going to be quite a chance. It's going to be a relief in some ways to get out of the pressures of the business but yes, going to be a big change. We hope to keep in touch with people of course," Topp says inventory will be sold-off over the coming couple of weeks. Sagor's is Bridgewater's first bookstore and its the oldest one in the Maritimes.

Ski Martock: Helmet Law Makes Sense

The operator of a Windsor-based ski hill says mandatory helmet use for skiers and snowboarders makes sense. Andy MacLean has been overseeing operations at Ski Martock for more than 25 years says he's not surprised by the move. MacLean expects a smooth transition for many ski enthusiasts who visit Martock. He says around 90 % of guests who visit the ski hill already wear helmets on the slopes and that's tops in Canada. "We always been big promoters and big advocates of helmet use here at Martock. So, I think people know the law and it's top of mind right now that's for sure. I think between the three resorts in the province, we'll make it a smooth transition," Under the legislation, inspectors would be hired to enforce the law, which could result in a stiff $250 fine for each offense. The government says it intends to have the legislation in effect next November if passed.

Vote For Glo

Voting is underway for a Lunenburg County woman trying to win $250,000 for her 'Lucious Lemon Pudding.' Glo McNeill has become a popular fixture in the South Shore region after winning the first episode of the Food Network's TV show 'Recipe to Riches'. Now, the 82-year-old is looking for your help to make her the grande prize winner. McNeill says she's looking for people to cast their vote at http://www.recipetoriches.ca/ . Voting starts at 1:01 Wednesday morning and ends at 12:59am on Friday December 9. She says people can vote once a day, for three days. The voting results will be released during the final episode of 'Recipe to Riches', to be aired December 14 at 10pm on the Food Network.

Bridgewater council becoming Electronically Advanced

Bridgewater council is moving to a more technical way of doing business. Council recently discussed options of online voting during 2012 elections and issuing laptops for councillors to cut down on paper costs. Mayor Carroll Publicover says it should improve the way council works. Publicover says he expects council will move to e-voting and e-council around the October 2012 elections. He says the new initiative is covered in the 2010-11 and 2011-12 budgets.

MLA Parker introduces bill to enact Pulp and Paper Mill Agreement

Charlie Parker

Legislation was introduced Wednesday implementing a provincial investment in jobs, land purchases and innovation at the Bowater Mersey Pulp and Paper Mill near Liverpool. Natural Resources Minister Charlie Parker says the bill is a strong statement of the province's commitment to support good jobs, strong rural communities and a sustainable pulp and paper industry that is an integral part of the provincial economy. The Bowater Mersey Investment Act will give legal authority to enact a multi-year agreement, outlined by Premier Darrell Dexter on December 2nd, that includes a capital investment, land acquisition and worker skills training. Highlights of the agreement include:


- $25 million in capital improvements to help reduce electricity consumption and also produce additional renewable energy.
- $23.7 million to buy 25,000 acres of company-owned land, some of which could be used towards the province's goal of 12 per cent protected lands by 2015.
- $1.5 million for skills training through the Productivity Investment Program.

Long Standing Bridgewater Business has New Ownership

A familiar Bridgewater business is changing hands. Gow's Home Hardware has been in the Gow family for several generations. Now, its been purchased by a long-time employee of the firm. New owner Amanda Fancy is a Lunenburg County native and she says the values and community-spirit of Gow's that's traditional with the company will continue. There will be no company name-change and the now-former owner Peter Gow will remain on staff. The change takes effect January 1st.

Vigil marks need to end Violence Against Women

The South Shore Labour Council is recognizing the need to stop violence against women. The group is holding a candlelight vigil Tuesday night at the Masonic Hall at 216 North Street in Bridgewater. A delegate for the council, Melissa Dorey, says the event helps create awareness about the issue. She says there are lots of places along the South Shore that can help including Harbour House. The event gets underway at 7pm Tuesday night and is expected to include a few guest speakers and prayer.

Bill 102: Grits & Tories Make Final Pitch

Opposition Leaders in Nova Scotia are pushing South Shore MLA's to break party ranks and vote against a controversial labour law. The NDP government is set to introduce a first contract arbitration bill that would allow for a third party arbitrator to decide the terms of employment in a newly unionized workplace. Liberal Leader Stephen McNeil is hoping to see amendments to Bill 102 so unions and management have more time to negotiate before the arbitration process. "What we're asking them to do is move away from the Manitoba model which is the most offensive - it's the one that Michelin, Sobeys and Clearwater have all express major concerns about - we're asking government to move closer to the Ontario model or quite frankly the model that the federal government uses which means you have to prove someone is bargaining in bad faith before going to arbitration," Meanwhile, Conservative Leader Jamie Bailie is calling on South Shore MLA's Gary Ramey and Pam Birdsall to oppose the bill. Ballie admits its a long-shot but is hoping to get support of five members from the NDP to vote against the legislation. The bill could come up for a vote as early as Thursday.

Big Brothers Big Sisters looking for Board Members

South Shore Big Brothers Big Sisters is looking for board members. The non-profit group for Lunenburg and Queens Counties is searching for energetic people with drive and interest in promoting youth. The president of South Shore Big Brothers Big Sisters, John Collyer, says its a rewarding experience.

"Anybody who has been involved in mentoring youth would understand that it is a very rewarding activity and it brings so much to the quality of life for these young people."

Collyer says people interested would have to participate in a screening process with a criminal records check and search of the child abuse registry. He urges everyone to get involved by contacting South Shore Big Brothers Big Sisters at 543-4435.

Giant Tiger Donating Dollars to Food Bank

A Bridgewater business is doing their part to stock up a local food bank. Giant Tiger is donating one dollar from every transaction Tuesday to the Bridgewater Interchurch Food Bank. The manager of Giant Tiger, Shane Demmings, says the purchase can be anything from a chocolate bar to clothing. Demmings says the food bank is in desperate need to fill their shelves, especially during the holiday season. He hopes the store can raise at least $2,000 for the food bank.

Shelburne Medical Clinic: $236,000 for Upgrades

A primary health care clinic adjacent to Roseway Hospital in Shelburne has received a boost from the province. The Shelburne Medical Clinic will receive $236,000 in provincial funding for upgrades. Environment minister Sterling Belliveau, in making the announcement this morning in Shelburne on behalf of the health minister, says a key part of the area's health care system will now be modernized. The upgraded clinic will have improved space for health care teams to work together to provide care to patients and will help recruit and keep doctors. Community partners such as the Municipality of Shelburne and the Roseway Hospital Foundation are providing just over half of the project's total cost. The project will be getting underway in a few weeks.

South Shore Woman Safe Following 9-1-1 Call

A 59-year-old South Shore woman who got lost in the woods of Lunenburg County on the weekend has been found safe and sound by searchers. The woman went for a walk on a trail Sunday afternoon, but became disoriented as darkness fell. As the temperature dropped, the woman used her cellphone to call 9-1-1. Police and Lunenburg Ground Search and Rescue were dispatched to the trail near Aldersville. The woman was found more than two kilometres from where she began her hike.

Mahone Bay eatery hopes for Liquor License

A popular restaurant in Mahone Bay is hoping a decision from the province's utility and review board falls in their favor. Zwicker's Inlet Restaurant and Cafe has been operating without a liquor license since July mainly because of a dispute with the eatery's former owner's.  The matter has been before the URB for three months because the restaurant's previous operators have yet to sign over the license. Manager Neven Luck says if the ruling doesn't go their way - he'll be forced to make some tough decisions. "We are struggling and it's not a fun situation heading into the holiday season without having a liquor license, so we're trying to compensate by offering reduced prices to bring them in and remind them that we are here...we do hope the URB will cancel the present license that's in place for this premises and once that happens our license will be approved," Luck says the restaurant employs around 14 people and has been operating in the same location since 1989.  The Utility and Review Board has scheduled a show cause hearing on the matter for December 12th.

CKBW/HANK FM Listeners Plan to Support Local this Holiday Season

It looks like this Christmas season will be a promising one for local businesses in the South Shore. More than 88 percent of CKBW/HANK FM listeners say they will support local merchants while shopping for the holidays. In total, 149 of those who voted on our web site say they have already or plan on buying local. This week's question asks listeners if they support the Nova Scotia government's $50 million dollar bailout package for Bowater Mersey. Our poll is located toward the bottom of our Home page.

Baril named new President and CEO of Composites Atlantic

Composites Atlantic has a new president and CEO. Claude Baril has been involved with the company since 1989 and has spent the last 12 years managing the Composites Atlantics development center in Mirabel, Quebec. Baril was given the interim position in August after replacing Maurice Guitton. He says he wants to continue developing the company as a leader in aeronautic, defense and space markets.

Resolute: NS Gov' Support is Final Piece of Complex Puzzle

A spokesperson for Resolute Forest Products says a five-year $50 million dollar support package from the province is enough to keep the paper mill in Brooklyn running. Pierre Choquette confirmed the deal was the final piece of a complex puzzle to help the company reduce costs at the Bowater Mersey paper mill. Choquette says half of the money will allow the company conduct a complete overhaul at the mill to upgrade machinery and make the plant more energy efficient. "It's about being more competitive and to do that we need to better our equipment, invest in upgraded equipment and it will help us remain competitive and lower our costs," Coquette says the company will also explore exporting its newsprint to growing markets like Latin American. The package announced Friday in Liverpool includes the province spending more than 23-million dollars to buy more than 10-thousand hectares of woodland from the company. The land purchase will be complete by March 31st.

Mustangs down CB West - Back in Action this Afternoon

In Nova Scotia Major Midget Hockey League action last night the South Shore Canadian Tire Mustangs built up a 5-2 lead and then hung on to edge the Cape Breton West Islanders 6-5. Shawn MacEachern led the Stangs with two goals and two assists. The clubs meet again today at noon in Port Hood.
 
Meanwhile, the CIBC Wood Gundy Lumberjacks hit the road today as they tangle with the Metro Marauders in Dartmouth. Gametime is 1 o'clock at the Sportsplex.

Legion to host Christmas Daddies Fundraiser in Liverpool

The Liverpool Royal Canadian Legion is doing their part for Christmas Daddies this weekend. Branch 38 is hosting a fundraiser Sunday with a number of musical acts, an auction, as well as 50/50 draws and raffle prizes. The Legion's president, Larry Weagle, says they're doing their part to make a difference. The Christmas Daddies fundraiser will be held from 1-5pm Sunday at the Liverpool Legion. Join Jonathan Crouse as this afternoon's MC for the fundraiser.

District of Lunenburg: Longhorn Spruce Beetle on Agenda

The longhorn spruce beetle found in the Lunenburg area recently has caught the attention of the Municipality. CAO Tammy Wilson says its a new issue for the Municipality and they haven't held any discussions. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has written a notice prohibiting movement of any spruce logs, bark or wood chips off grounds in the Sawpit Wharf or Garden Lot areas without permit. The Municipality is expected to discuss the beetle during its next council meeting December 13.

Annual Food Bank Challenge

It's paramedics versus police versus RCMP in the third annual food bank challenge. The three emergency services are challenging each other and you to donate non-perishable food items... to see who can fill their vehicles with the most food. Bridgewater Police Chief John Collyer says the need to donate has never been greater. The Food Bank Challenge goes from 1-5pm Saturday at the Bridgewater Atlantic Superstore. All proceeds go towards the Bridgewater Interchurch Food Bank.

Lumberjacks pick up "W" in Wild Affair with Capitals

In the most exciting Junior A game in Bridgewater this season the CIBC Wood Gundy Lumberjacks edged the Summerside Western Capitals 7-6 in a shootout last night. Jake Bullen had two third period goals for the Jacks who battled back from a 4-2 deficit. Brad Donaldson added a goal and two assists while Luke Ramey potted the shootout winner. The Jacks return to action tomorrow afternoon in Dartmouth when they face the Metro Marauders.

Resolute/Government Negotiate $50 Million Deal - Saves Mill

The Nova Scotia government has reached a deal with Resolute Forest Products to keep its Bowater Mersey paper mill operating. The five-year package amounts to $50 million dollars in total. Premier Darrell Dexter says $25 million of the deal will be a forgivable loan to Resolute. Dexter says that money is intended to make the mill more efficient and become more innovative. "In the end, I believe that in the newsprint industry, it's going to be the lowest cost mills that are going to be the ones that survive and once the newsprint industry reaches an equilibrium those companies will make money...but you have to get there first," He says the province will also spend $23.75 million to buy about 10,000 hectares of woodland from the company. Meanwhile, Resolute's Canadian Spokesperson Pierre Choquette called it good news for the South Shore and the industry. "You look at the way the industry has been affected by the economy over the past couple of years and you look at the demand going down as well. So it's no secret that the most competitive, low cost mills will be the ones that survive," The agreement includes $1.5 million for workforce training through the Productivity Investment Program, the province's plan for economic growth. The investment allows employees to upgrade their skills between 2012 and 2014, as a result of capital improvements to the mill. 

Black Legged Tick Confirmed in Gavelton, Yarmouth Co.

The black legged tick has been confirmed to be present in the Gavelton area of Yarmouth County. South West Health spokesperson Barb Johnson says recent tests confirm the bugs are there. The ticks can carry the bacteria that causes Lyme disease and are normally found in grassy, shrubby and wooded areas. Johnson says letters will be going out this week for those who live in the Gavelton area reminding residents of the tick's presence. She suggests those who are working in potentially populated areas to conduct a thorough tick check when they get home - she's says one sign of exposure is a bulls-eye rash around the bite. Tick activity is normally reduced with the first permanent snowfall or when air temperatures are consistently below 4 degrees.

Dexter en route to Liverpool with news for Bowater Mersey

A big announcement coming today from Premier Darrell Dexter. It could help keep the Bowater Mersey paper mill running. A spokeswoman for Dexter has confirmed the government has worked out a multi-million dollar support package. Mill owners Resolute Forest Products have told the premier they will close the plant without help from the government, concessions from the union and reduced electricity costs. The President of CEP Union Local 141 Courtney Wentzell says he'll need to know the details of the deal before he can endorse it while officials from Resolute have declined comment. CKBW/HANK FM will have more on this announcement later this afternoon.

BREAKING: Multi-Million Dollar Support Package for Bowater Mersey

It's a huge development that may help keep the Bowater Mersey paper mill in production. The government of Nova Scotia has worked out a multi million-dollar support package for the Brooklyn based mill. A spokeswoman from the premier's office confirmed the agreement late Thursday afternoon. Premier Darrell Dexter will give details about the deal Friday afternoon during an announcement in Liverpool. Mill owners Resolute Forest Products told Dexter they would close the plant without help from the government, concessions from the union and reduced electricity costs. President of CEP Union Local 141 Courtney Wentzell says he'll need to know the details of the deal before he can endorse it. The union at the mill recently voted to cut 110 full- and part-time jobs in an effort to reduce labour costs and help save the operation. On Tuesday, the province's Utility and Review Board ruled that the mill would receive a three-year discount on its electricity costs. The Region of Queens Municipality has also approved a 15 per cent property tax reduction for the mill worth about $135,000 per year. Officials for Resolute did not return messages seeking comment. CKBW/HANK FM News will have more on this story tomorrow afternoon and full reaction.

Lumberjacks, Crushers meet in Pictou

The CIBC Wood Gundy Lumberjacks head to Pictou Thursday night to battle the Weeks Crushers. The Jacks have dropped two in a row and are looking to bounce back from an 8-1 loss to Truro Saturday night. Head Coach Terry Rhindress says the team has to focus on what they do well.

"The key for us is to get a good start and play 60 minutes again. We know we can play with them, we have to get pucks deep, get pucks to the net, you know, we have to cycle the puck low. When we play our low game and cycle the puck, you know, that's our bread and butter, that's where we succeed."

Rhindress says his club needs to stay composed in their own zone and play better positionally. The Lumberjacks and Crushers face off at 7:30 in Pictou.

Mustangs face off against Dartmouth

The South Shore Canadian Tire Mustangs bring a modest two-game winning streak into Dartmouth Thursday night against the Taylor Flooring Major Midgets. Dartmouth leads the Mustangs by one point in a sea-saw battle for second place in the Major Midget standings. Head Coach Tim Boyce says it will be a tough test on the road.

"Solid goaltending. Obviously the kid in nets, Jack Flinn, has been on a real roll this year. We are going to have to get some traffic in front of him, get some dirty goals. The other thing we're going to have to do is look to take away the middle of the ice, slow things down in the neutral zone because they are a very good skating club."

Boyce says he expects his team will struggle with their usual fast-paced forecheck because of the larger ice surface in Dartmouth. The two teams square off at 6:30 Thursday night at the Dartmouth Sportsplex.