New Business Network Picks Up Support

Another South Shore municipal unit will join a new group striving to support small and local businesses. The Municipality of Shulburne will join the Regional Enterprise Network 2. The network also consists of the Region of Queens. The province is hoping to see six REN's formed in Nova Scotia. It's in response to the dissolution of Regional Development Authorities. The REN will consist of a business person from each municipal unit along with an elected official. All members will provide equal annual funding to support the network.

Weekend: 7 Provincial Parks Set To Open

It's the unofficial kick off to the camping season - and seven provincial parks are set to open for visitors. Some of the parks that will open beginning today, include Graves Island and Rissers Beach in Lunenburg County. Upgrades at Graves Island will give campers more water and electricity serviced sites and a new main office. Thomas Raddal in Queens County, Porters Lake in Halifax and Ellenwood Lake in Yarmouth County are each set to open as well. The remaining parks will welcome guests in June. Campers should remember dogs need to be on a leash and alcohol is not allowed in any park before June 2.

Bridgewater: Council Size To Be Reviewed

The public can soon have their say on the size of Bridgewater town council. Currently, there are six councillors and a mayor. However, a mandatory review is required this year by the province. The study is done every eight years by all Nova Scotia municipalities on the number of councillors in their area. The town will begin engaging the community in June and July with information presented through its newsletter, website and public meetings. Mayor David Walker says he's optimistic people will state their thoughts.



The last review completed by the town was in 2006. A decision needs to be made to the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board by December 31.

Chester: Sewer Rates Moving To Next Step

Chester will move ahead to a public hearing to get more input on sewer rates. The municipality agreed on an equivalent dwelling unit system that will see all users pay a basic rate of $522.89, with rates increasing based on usage. It was a unanimous decision by council members. Warden Allen Webber feels it's a fair way of doing things.



Five of the six existing sewer systems in the municipality are running a deficit. Webber says with this option, they will have to pay down the debt in a different way. A public meeting to discuss sewer rates will be held on June 4th at 7pm at Forest Heights Community School.

New Webcam Launches In Liverpool

Liverpool can now be seen by anyone across the world. A webcam has been installed at the Visitor Information Centre and went live on Wednesday. The webcam is one of several located in the Liverpool area and around the South Shore on Tancook Island, Chester, Mahone Bay and Lunenburg. Region of Queens Councillor Brian Fralic came up with the idea. He says it's a good opportunity for people to see what's happening in Liverpool.



The webcam points towards the Mersey River and Privateer Park. The Region of Queens approved the webcam in this year's budget for just over $3,000, and also pays a monthly operational fee. People can view the webcam here .

Mounties Gearing Up For Road Safety Week

Mounties are going to be out in full force patrolling highways heading into the long weekend. It's Road Safety Week - a country wide initiative aimed at making the roads in Canada the safest in the world. Constable Mark Skinner says they will focus on dangers such as impaired driving and distracted driving. He says it's best to use a headset or put your phone away while behind the wheel.



Road safety week runs through until Monday.

VIDEO: Governor General Visits Mahone Bay

Eleven people including nine from Lunenburg County have been recognized for their hard work and compassion in their community. Governor General David Johnston presented Caring Canadian awards during a ceremony in Mahone Bay on Wednesday. The award was first established in 1995 to recognize volunteers. One of the recipients, Jim Barkhouse of Chester, says it was a great surprise.



Other award winners are from New Ross, New Germany, Chester Basin and Tancook Island. The Smart and Caring Community Fund also received $125,000 to help mobilize residents, organizations and resources in Lunenburg County. The following people received the awards:

Leslie Gary Stewart - Stellarton
Joseph Vidito - Tancook Island
Gerri Allen - Chester
Alberta P. Baker - Chester
James Barkhouse - Chester
Hiram Carver - New Germany
Florence Joyce Hiltz - Chester Basin
Daniel Edward (Ted) Hobson - Mahone Bay
Robert Hutt - New Ross
Ken Power - Halifax
Sandra Zwicker - Chester Basin

Ferry Company Tweeks Fares To Attract More Customers

As ferry service between Yarmouth and Maine is about to resume after almost 5 years, the operator of the NovaStar has already tweeked fares. Children under 18 will now travel on the ferry at no charge which saves parents a considerable amount of money. NovaStar Cruises is also offering a 20 percent discount off ticket prices if you book early. The changes reflect the company's concern about possibly lower-than-expected passenger revenues in its first year. The Mayor of the Region of Queens, Christopher Clarke, says lower than expected ridership on the ferry should not be interpreted as a failed service.



The ferry begins daily service on Thursday, leaving Portland at 10pm and arriving in Yarmouth at 8 o'clock the following morning.

Bridgewater: Apartment Building Requested For King Street Property

It could be a new opportunity for people to live in the heart of Bridgewater. Milestone Properties has applied to the town to develop a three-story multi-unit apartment complex at 356 and 388 King Street. The town has endorsed the idea and has set up a public meeting to talk about request on May 28. Mayor David Walker says the new property would benefit the town.



The properties are currently owned by Nauss Brothers Holdings Ltd.  The proposal states that there would be 18 two-bedroom apartments, each with window and balcony views of the LaHave River. Milestone Properties is also proposing 28 parking spaces. Construction could begin as early as this year if the request is approved.

Has Little Advertising Harmed Ferry's Success In Year-One?

A veteran tourism operator in Lunenburg is worried about a lack of advertising, promoting the return of ferry service between Yarmouth and Maine. In business for nearly 20 years, Basil Oickle operates "Trot In Time" horse and buggy rides in Old Town Lunenburg. He says despite the provincial government trumpetting the return of the ferry, there's been little spent on advertising, here and in New England.



Oickle says its going to take some time for word to spread. He believes eventually though South Shore busineses and many others across the province will see renewed growth resulting from the return of the ferry service.

Municipality Of Lunenburg Approves 2014-15 Budget

The Municipality of Lunenburg will not borrow to pay for capital projects for the fourth year in a row. Council members voted unanimously to approve this year's budget. It includes an operating budget of $29.4-million and a capital budget over $3.5-million. Mayor Don Downe says he's proud of not having to borrow money.



The municipality's residential tax rate remains at $0.81 cents while the commercial tax rate stays at $1.95. However, sewer rates have dropped. In Cookville, New Germany and Conquerall Bank, it's down to $0.75 cents from $0.84. It also dropped in Hebbville from $0.49.9 cents to $0.45.

Chester Group Selected To Test Segways

A Chester group is one of three chosen to test segways on streets and sidewalks. The Nova Scotia government approved applications from Chester Marine Services Ltd., as well as groups in the HRM and Truro. The owner of Chester Marine Services Ltd., Wynand Baerken, says they operate tours in Western Shore for people interested in using the vehicles. He says they take safety seriously.



There are strict rules under the pilot program. Segways can not operate on roads with a speed limit higher than 60 kilometres per hour, or travel faster than 20 kilometres per hour. The Department of Transportation says other groups can still apply to participate in the pilot period, which ends in January, 2016. They will then evaluate results and determine whether amendments will be made to the Motor Vehicle Act to permanently allow segway use in the province.

Royal Tour: Public Events Planned In Halifax

Residents of the South Shore hoping to get a chance to rub shoulders with members of The Royals Family may get a chance during a number of public events in Halifax. The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall will be in the city over the Victoria Day long weekend. Prince Charles, Governor General David Johnston and Premier Stephen McNeil will each give remarks on Monday starting at 10am in Grand Parade. There will be a 21-gun-salute, a guard of honour from the Canadian Armed Forces, an aboriginal blessing, a band and a choir performance. Those planning to attend should arrive early because of street closures. It is common courtesy to bow or curtsy when meeting members of the Royal Family, and refer to them as "Your Royal Highness" initially, and "Sir/Ma'am" as the conversation continues. The tour also includes stops in Pictou County, PEI and Manitoba.

Itinerary for event at Grand Parade:

The official party and The Prince of Wales will give remarks, then the couple will lay a wreath at the cenotaph and sign guest books before a walkabout. This will be the only time His Royal Highness will give remarks during his stay in the province.

The Royal Couple will tour the Halifax and Region Military Family Resource Centre, which will be open to military families only. They will meet with groups that provide support to military families, participate in a Victoria Day Military Family Festival, watch a youth ball hockey game, and take part in a coin presentation and plaque unveiling.

Tour of Public Gardens:

The Prince of Wales will tour the Public Gardens at 12:30 p.m., where he will learn about the history of the gardens and its role in the city, and the restoration of the Jubilee Fountain. He will attend a bandstand concert, and meet members of the Dahlia Society and other groups. His Royal Highness will plant a tree beside an oak tree planted by His Royal Highness's grandfather King George VI in 1939. A set of coins honouring the 75th anniversary of the 1939 Royal Tour will be presented to His Royal Highness by the Royal Canadian Mint.

Tour of Northbrook Community Centre:

The Duchess of Cornwall will tour Northbrook Community Centre at 12:35 p.m., where she will have a private meeting with a family who has benefited from Alice Housing programs and tour the centre. Her Royal Highness will proceed outside to a community barbecue and do a walkabout during Family Fun Day celebrations.

Tour of Halifax Seaport Farmers Market:

A visit to the Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market and the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 will be the last stop of the day in Halifax. The Prince of Wales will tour the market at 1:15 p.m. and will meet with vendors, a youth farmer and young entrepreneurs. He will be joined by the Duchess of Cornwall for performances by local musical artists, and meet with urban farming groups, including Hope Blooms, before proceeding to the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 to join in a tea with war brides and Second World War veterans.


The following streets near Grand Parade will be closed from 7 a.m. until noon, Monday, May 19:

 

-- Barrington and Argyle, between Duke and Prince streets

 

-- Carmichael, from Grafton to Argyle streets

 

-- George, from Granville to Barrington streets.

 

Lunenburg MLA: Governor General Visit "Exciting"

The MLA for Lunenburg is pleased to see Canada's Governor General coming to Mahone Bay. David Johnston will be along the South Shore Wednesday afternoon. He will attend the launch of the Smart and Caring Community Fund of Lunenburg County at the Mahone Bay Centre. Suzanne Lohnes-Croft says she looks forward to the visit.



The governor general is also expected to present several Caring Canadian Awards to local residents. Johnston is also expected to visit Gold River and Bonny Lea Farm just outside Chester before visiting Halifax on Thursday.

Yarmouth Mayor Christens New Ferry

The Mayor of Yarmouth has attended a ship christening ceremony in Boston. Pam Mood and other dignitaries were on board the new Yarmouth-Maine ferry Nova Star for the noon time christening. The mayor cracked the traditional bottle of champagne on the side of the newly built 530 foot vessel which will begin regular daily crossings between Portland and Yarmouth on Thursday. Mayor Mood says she will be aboard the ferry for its inaugural trip. The mayor says she's excited to be a part of history and is spreading the word in Massachusetts that Nova Scotia and her town in particular are great places to visit.

Ferry Schedule Should Be Adjusted: PC Leader Baillie

There are fears the daily arrival time in Yarmouth for the new ferry may hamper efforts to increase tourism and business along the South Shore. The province's PC Opposition Leader Jamie Baillie says it will be arriving too early, before businesses are open.



Baillie suggests a 9 or 10am arrival time might make a difference in people staying in the area to visit and shop. The Nova Star begins service on Thursday, arriving in Yarmouth from Portland, Maine daily at 8am with passengers and vehicles.

MODL: New Strategic Plan Puts Strong Focus On Agriculture

A new strategic action plan hopes to grow the agriculture and food products sector in the Municipality of Lunenburg. The five-year-plan for 2014-19 was introduced recently. It points to goals for agriculture like doing a better job of connecting resources with potential owners, investors or producers.  The municipality also wants to develop a marketing plan. Economic Development officer, Dave Waters, says the timing makes sense to focus more on agriculture.



Waters says there will be a lot of focus spent on promoting the Haskap berry and local wineries. The plan also looks to tourism and promoting arts and culture as a key direction in the future. The municipality will endorse or deny the plan at their meeting on Tuesday.

New Crown Attorney In Bridgewater

There's a new crown attorney on the South Shore. A native of Sydney, John Todd Martin has been appointed to work out of the Bridgewater office. He graduated in 2008 from St. F.X. and from the University of New Brunswick Law School in 2012. Martin had been working with Sampson McDougall Barristers and Solicitors in Sydney. Last year, he was appointed as Crown attorney in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Events Lunenburg County Taking Shape

A number of business and industry leaders feel there needs to be a part-time person in place to help bring major events to the area. The idea is listed in the terms of reference for Events Lunenburg County. The group involved in today's discussion agreed that a part-time person focusing on attracting events would be a better option than a group of volunteers. Andrew Tanner feels they made progress with the discussion.



Events Lunenburg County will hold another meeting this month for further talks on the issue. Almost a dozen people signed up to be part of a committee going forward. They're expected to start looking for a part-time employee in the near future.

Improvements Coming To Nova Scotia Palliative Care

Palliative Care in the province is being improved with a million dollars being pumped into the system. Health Minister Leo Glavine says it will promote a more combined approach to end-of-life care, involving health professionals, community groups and patients themselves. A co-ordinator will be appointed to handle it and the minister also says ....



Glavine says the improvements reflect the increasing number of Nova Scotians prefering to spend their final days at home with family and friends, rather than in a hospital setting.

Exhibition Expects $7,000 Loss Due To Cancelled Festival

The manager of the South Shore Exhibition is holding out hope that a decision between the town of Bridgewater and South Shore in Motion can find a resolution. The festival cancelled their event this year after losing 40 per cent of their trucks and sponsors following the town's decision not to endorse a big rig hill climb. However, Christine Sarty feels the loss of South Shore in Motion will be a huge economic loss. She says the two sides need to try and meet in the middle.



Sarty estimates the Exhibition will lose roughly $7,000 with the departure of South Shore in Motion from their grounds in August. She says they will lose money on things like the grounds rental and canteen sales.

New RCMP District Commander In Queens

There is a new person in charge of the RCMP in Queens County. Staff Sgt. Paul MacDougall has taken over as the new district commander, replacing Corporal Victor Whalen who was filling in on an interim basis. MacDougall comes to Queens following five years at RCMP headquarters in the Halifax-area. He says he's looking forward to the challenge and getting his feet wet in the new role.



MacDougall points to ongoing concerns regarding break and enters in rural parts of the county as things the Mounties are focusing on. He says they're also trying to crack down on the number of impaired or distracted drivers.

Older Moms Want To Stay In Own Homes

On this Mothers Day, it seems many aging moms would prefer to stay at home, live independently, cook meals, clean and do gardening work. Those thoughts result from a new national survey of mothers who are approaching retirement. Jackie Hickey of Bayshore Healthcare in Toronto says many moms could care less about pricey flowers, gifts or restaurant meals.



Hickey suggests the best Mothers Day gift for older moms on their special day is to take the whole family to her place, roll up the sleaves, help her cook dinner and dig in the garden beside her. About a thousand aging Canadian mothers were questioned for the survey.

Yarmouth Ready To Welcome First Ferry Passengers

Final touches are being made in Yarmouth to the town's downtown area as the May 15th startup date for the ferry service to Maine approaches. Mayor Pam Mood says with federal and provincial financial help and the work of townsfolk, the town is ready to showcase itself once again.



The NovaStar arrives in Yarmouth from Portland, Maine with its first passengers and vehicles at 8 o'clock Thursday morning.

Health Care Reform & Labour Designation Doesn't Mix Well With Labour Federation

Nova Scotia's Federation of Labour is calling upon the McNeil government to back off on its efforts to settle union issues surrounding health care reform. President Rick Clarke accuses the government of creating chaos in the system. He says unions have created a plan for health care workers to remain with their current union.
However, Clarke says the government seems intent on imposing its own plan.



Clarke is urging the government to allow unions to represent their members without interference and spend more time and energy instead on fixing problems in the health care system.

Former South Shore MLA Helping Bridgetown Through Dissolution

A former cabinet minister and South Shore MLA will lead a town in the Annapolis Valley through dissolution. Council in Bridgetown voted in March to drop its town status and join the Municipality of Annapolis County. A declining population and loss of jobs were cited as reasons for the move. Allister Surette has been appointed to transition Bridgetown through the process. Surette was the MLA for Argyle from 1993 to 1998 and served a Minister of Human Resources. He is now the president of Sainte-Anne's University. Municipal Affairs Minister and Lunenburg West MLA Mark Furey made the appointment official earlier today. The dissolution process is expected to be complete by April 1, 2015.

NS: Teenager, 14, Charged With Impaired Driving

A 14 year old has been charged with impaired driving after a crash in Antigonish County. The teenager was caught after he put the car in a ditch on Highway 245 in Clydesdale. Mounties say the boy was not injured and was the only person in the vehicle. He's facing charges of impaired driving and taking a vehicle without consent. Mounties are still gathering details on the matter. The teen will appear in youth court in July.

The Legacy of Westray

Today is the anniversary of the Westray mine disaster in Pictou County. On May 9th, 1992, 26 coal miners died in the worst mining incident in the country since Springhill in 1958. Years later with the passing of Bill C-45 - known as the Westray Bill - in 2004, Canada has some of the strongest health and safety laws in the world. However, Nova Scotia Federation of Labour President Rick Clarke says they're not used enough nor fully embraced.



Clarke says its time to send a strong message to employers that the health and safety of their workers is their top priority. To date, there has not been a single prosecution under the legislation.

Baillie Calls For Marketing Bowater Land Wood

Nearly two years since the Bowater Mersey paper mill in Nova Scotia's Queens County closed, there is still no word on what will become of all the forest land aquired by the province. With the US housing market on the comeback and the demand for cut lumber rising, Nova Scotia's Progressive Conservative Opposition Leader Jamie Baillie is urging the government to aggressively market the wood.



Baillie says everyone accepts the decline of the world newsprint market but he says there's no excuse to pursuing markets for other wood products such as lumber. He says it would boost the economy of the area and create jobs.

Day To Remember Canadian Veterans Of Afghanistan

Today is a National Day of Honor, recognizing Canadian Forces men and women who served in Afghanistan. On the South Shore, Legion branches and the 14 Construction Engineering Squadron will hold a service this afternoon at the cenotaph at Veterans Memorial Park in Bridgewater. Captain Norm Clancy of the Engineers says its important to recognize the service and sacrifices of Canadians in Afghanistan, even though it was a small war compared to others in the past.



Today's service in Bridgewater begins at 1:45pm. It'll be held at the same time as the National service in Ottawa.

International & Aboriginal Students To Benefit From Universities Projects

A series of new projects will launch at Nova Scotia universities designed to attract international and aboriginal students. Education Minister Kelly Regan has announced $5 million in funding for nine different projects that will help recruit and support new students. The money will also help create an easier application process for students through an online application portal and electronic transcript system. Cape Breton, Saint Mary's and Acadia will study ways to create a Nova Scotia-China learning campus to offer local academic programs in China. Meanwhile, Kings College will pilot a new approach gear toward students from the United Stated. The money for the projects is funneled through the Excellence and Innovation Fund.

Fishermen's ER Closed Most Of The Weekend

The emergency department at the hospital in Lunenburg will be closed for most of the weekend. The ER will not be staffed beginning tonight at 7:30pm. South Shore Health says it's due to the unavailability of a doctor. It will reopen on Sunday morning at 7:30am. Residents that live near the hospital and need urgent medical attention should dial 9-1-1 or go to the South Shore Regional Hospital in Bridgewater.

Gas Prices Substantially Lower

As predicted, gas prices are lower this morning at South Shore pumps and even lower than expected. Regular self serve is down 5 cents to $1.38.1 per litre. High test is down the same to $1.47.1. Diesel has fallen by 2.5 cents a litre and is selling at many locations for $1.35.1.

Softball: Season Kicks Off Tonight

The summer softball season in Lunenburg County kicks off tonight. The popular co-ed league gets underway tonight in Dayspring. The "BMI Freaks" will be looking to defend their title in the mixed league. The women's league will begin Monday. Eight teams make up the league which is set to enter its third season. Last season, the Pitch Slappers won the league championship over the Lady Alers. The men's season begins on Tuesday. There are seven teams in the league this year. The Apple Auto Glass Impact will be looking to defend their title after winning the league in October last season over the Assassins. The opening of the season was delayed because of poor weather.

It's Definitely McHappy Day

It certainly going to be a McHappy Day for some young children on the South Shore in need of a mentor. Nearly $3,200 was raised yesterday through proceeds donated by McDonalds in Bridgewater to Big Brothers Big Sisters. It was the most raised for the organization on McHappy Day. A dollar from hot beverages and select menu items went directly to BBBS. The money helps fund mentoring programs and after school support for youth in the area. Over the years the partnership has helped raise more than $13,000 for Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Canada's Governor General Coming To Mahone Bay

The town of Mahone Bay is getting a special visitor next week. The Governor General of Canada, David Johnston, will help officially launch the Smart and Caring Community Fund. It's administered by the Lunenburg County Community Fund and is expected to support initiatives focused on improving quality of life in the region. Johnston will also present several Governor General Caring Canadian Awards to local residents. The event will be held during the afternoon of May 14 at the Mahone Bay Centre.

Chester: Municipality Supports Debate Over Oak Island Bill

The spring session of the Nova Scotia Legislature may have ended late last week but that won't stop a local MLA from trying to protect artifacts on Oak Island. NDP member for Chester-St. Margaret's Denise Peterson-Rafuse tabled a bill in the house. However, it will have to be revived when the house resumes in the fall. She says current legislation isn't strong enough and doesn't provide restrictions to have an archaeologist on the island while treasure hunters search for the hidden loot.



Meanwhile, Chester will do what they can to help their area MLA get the legislation debated. The municipality has agreed to send a letter asking the Nova Scotia government to push Bill 68 through the Legislature to debate. Warden Allen Webber says it's important for them to show support.



Peterson-Rafuse says they have received hundreds of emails from Norway, Sweden and England supporting the bill.

RCMP Make Pot Bust In Hebbville

A Lunenburg County man with some past trouble with the law is facing more charges after police did a routine check up at a home in Hebbville. RCMP say they went to check on a 31 year-old man yesterday afternoon. However, they were allowed into the home. That's when Mounties came back with a search warrant and found some pot plants. He was arrested along with another 38 year old man. The 31 year-old was taken to Burnside Correction Centre for not following his court conditions.  The other man was released and will appear in Bridgewater Court at a later date.

Full Review Of Education System Underway

Residents of the South Shore can help shape the education system. The first major review of education in 25 years is underway in Nova Scotia. A six-person panel has been formed to gather input from teachers, students, parents, education groups and community members. The panel is being led by former Lieutenant Governor and teacher Myra Freeman. The review was originally intended to focus on curriculum, but it will examine all aspects of the public school system. A discussion guide is available online to help get the conversation started and includes a series of questions to help gather input You can submit input by emailing educationreview@gov.ns.ca  or by phoning 844-424-3777. You can also tweet @NSEdReview. The deadline for submissions is June 13.

Mail:

Minister's Panel on Education
c/o Department of Education and Early Childhood Development
P.O. Box 578 Halifax, N.S.,
B3J 2S9

Getson Rated Second Round Pick For Upcoming QMJHL Draft

A Bridgewater hockey player is rated as a second-round pick for the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League's draft by the Central Scouting Service. Sixteen-year-old Keith Getson is ranked 35th overall for the upcoming draft on May 31st in Sherbrooke, Quebec. However, things could change on draft day and Getson could move up or down. He says he just wants to be drafted.



Getson is coming off a terrific year with the Charlie's Pizza South Shore Mustangs, notching 28 points in 29 regular season games and was named to the league's rookie all-star team. Four Nova Scotians are rated to be drafted in the first round.

A Famous South Shore Son Being Honored

Tomorrow (May 9th) will be the 100th anniversary of the birth of country music legend Hank Snow. The Liverpool area is preparing to celebrate the centennial of its most famous son and thousands of Snow fans are expected to attend. Hank Snow museum administrator Kelly Inglis says there is one event many Snow fans are truely looking forward to. Its tomorrow's unveiling of a new Canada Post stamp commemorating the life of the famous singer.



In addition to the stamp, there will also be the unveiling of a life-size Hank Snow statue near the museum.
There is also the release of a Snow biography by South Shore author Vernon Oikle, a new Hank Snow CD release, the opening of the new Hank Snow Community Park, a country music show at the Astor Theatre featuring headliner Larry Gatlin and a lot of other events. The centennial celebrations run through Sunday.

Gold Star For South Shore Bus Drivers/Staff

It's more recognition for bus drivers and staff within the South Shore Regional School Board's transportation department. They received the Gold Award for exceptional performance at the Nova Scotia Pupil Transportation Conference. The South Shore board scored a remarkable 197 out of 200 possible points in a number of safety and performance related areas. Superintendent Geoff Cainen says he's thrilled for their staff and drivers in achieving such a high standard of excellence. It's the sixth year in a row the board has picked up the Gold Award. The transportation department manages 87 buses, over 330 routes and employs 100 drivers.

A Drop In Gasoline Prices Expected Tonight At South Shore Pumps

Look for South Shore gas prices to drop some tomorrow morning (Friday). In New Brunswick this morning, prices there are lower. The price of self serve regular dropped overnight by about 4 cents a litre. Diesel has also been lowered by around 2.5 cents a litre. If similar decreases happen here overnight tonight, the price of regular self serve may drop to about $1.38 per litre.

Bridgewater Mayor: No Intent To See South Shore In Motion Cancelled

The mayor of Bridgewater says it's extremely frustrating and unfortunate to hear South Shore in Motion has been cancelled this year. The group decided to scrap the entire event Tuesday night. A deadline was imposed by South Shore in Motion on Monday night for the town to make a decision on their proposed big rig hill climb event. The town's insurer indicated there was too many risks and wouldn't financially cover the event. David Walker says it was never their intention to see it fold.



Walker feels there needs to be a clearly identified process that could have helped South Shore in Motion this year. Meanwhile, a digital image has surfaced mocking the town as the "Senior Citizen Capital of the World Where quiet-time will soon be everyday." Walker says people have their opinion but he's pleased with the work the town has done to be recognized as senior-friendly and the best community in Atlantic Canada to raise a young family. He hopes to sit down with the festival's chairperson in the next week to work out issues and talk about the future. Interviews with South Shore in Motion chairperson Darren Wentzell and Mayor David Walker can be heard on this weekend's South Shore Sunday Morning program from 8am-9am on HANK-FM and 9am-10am on CKBW.

Below is the digital image circulating on Facebook.

Famed Author Mowat Dies

Famed Canadian writer Farley Mowat has died. He was a native of  Belleville, Ontario. Mowat was best-known for works like Owls in the Family, The Dog Who Wouldn’t Be, and Never Cry Wolf. His career spanned 50 years and he received numerous awards, including the Governor General’s Award for literature, the Order of Canada and a number of honorary university degrees. Mowat was 92 years old.

NSCC: Tuition Costs Rising In 2014/15

Tuition is on the rise for those planning to attend a Nova Scotia Community College in the fall. Most programs will see a three percent increase. It means about $90 more for a majority of students - with annual tuition sitting at just over $3,000. VP of Academic Services Rosalind Penfound says they know any increase is concerning to students.



There are 13 NSCC's in the province - including Bridgewater, Dartmouth, Kentville and Yarmouth.


Tuition for 2014-15

Full-Time Core - $3,040

Advanced Diplomas - $4,650

Academic and Career Connections - $1,255

International Students - $9,800

Chester: Sewer Rates Back At Council May 15

The future of sewer rates in Chester will be back at the table later this month. The municipality was proposing to amend its sewer by-law and create a universal rate based on property assessment. However, a large number of residents opposed the idea based on unfair rate changes. Warden Allen Webber feels council is doing what it can to keep residents happy.



Council directed staff to look at a modified equivalent dwelling unit system, with a user fee for larger groups. Staff are expected to report their findings back to council on May 15.

No Charges Laid Against South Shore Police Officer

No charges will be laid against a South Shore police officer after allegations of domestic violence. On April 15th (2014), a woman lodged a complaint about her husband, an RCMP officer at the Bridgewater detachment. The province's Serious Incident Response Team launched an investigation. After weighing all the evidence including statements by both sides, SIRT has determined the officer in question did not use unreasonable force to protect his personal property from being damaged. SIRT is responsible for investigating all serious incidents involving police in Nova Scotia.

Update: Woman Fined After Car Strikes Pedestrian

A 37-year-old woman has been fined after an incident Tuesday on Old Bridge Street in Bridgewater. Police Chief John Collyer says the woman must pay a fine of $291.45 as a first time offender for operating a motor vehicle without a valid license. The woman was driving when she struck a 57-year-old female in a wheelchair who was trying to cross the street. However, Collyer says witnesses indicate the woman in the wheelchair did not press the crosswalk lights. She was taken to hospital for treatment of minor injuries. Police are still investigating the matter.