Mawhinney: Town of Lunenburg Looking for Fixed Power Costs

The town of Lunenburg's mayor says the entire province is feeling the same pain when discussing power rates. The cost of electricity went up across the province on January 1st and Laurence Mawhinney explains its something everyone has to deal with. The town is able to offer residents a lower cost for power because it buys electricity in bulk from Nova Scotia Power and operates its own utility. However, Mawhinney says that doesn't mean the town isn't searching for lower costs from alternate energy suppliers. "What we said in our strategic plan is that we wanted to get a new source of energy that was greener and more efficient and was more in line with fixed costs - I do believe we are moving in that direction and I'm optimistic in the not too distant future, we'll be able to put the plank down for the public," The town is one of five municipal units in the province who operate their own utility. Mahone Bay, Riverport, Berwick and Antigonish are the others. The town of Canso also operates it's own utility but is in the midst of amalgamating with the Municipality of Guysborough.

BREAKING: Councillor Mitchell to seek nomination for PC Party

David Mitchell

A Bridgewater Councillor is looking to make the switch from municipal to provincial politics. David Mitchell has announced his intent to seek nomination for the Progressive Conservative party in the Lunenburg West riding. Mitchell has spent seven years as a town councillor and says he's ready to take his style of politics to the next level.

"I love municipal politics but the issues that we face in the town are not unique to the town, they're province-wide and I believe that the hard work and common sense approach I use on council, I could use to serve more people at a provincial level."

Mitchell says the decision to run came after lengthy talks with his wife and three children. He says he's a 'tell it like it is' kind of guy who works hard and gets things done. Mitchell says the timing is right to take on the NDP government.

"The last two-and-a-half years I think we've gone backwards, whether it's increasing the HST or cancelling the ferry or simply throwing money at problems without looking for lasting solutions. The Tories will be the party I think that helps Nova Scotia get itself out of the hole its been dug into."

Mitchell says he's a firm believer in the initiatives Leader Jamie Baillie is introducing to the party. But, he says he still plans on re-offering for Bridgewater council in the fall in case his venture into provincial politics doesn't go as planned. A date for a nomination meeting has yet to be selected.

VIDEO: More Bike Lanes coming to Bridgewater

Bike enthusiasts are getting a bit more room on some Bridgewater roads. Town council voted 6-1 in favour of installing shared bike lanes on North Park Street, York Street and Alexandra Avenue. The project is expected to cost the town $33,170, which is gas tax eligible. The Lunenburg County Community Health Board, Michelin and the province's Department of Health and Wellness have each contributed funding towards the project, totalling $6,200. The director of planning with the town of Bridgewater, Eric Shaw, says they are proposing the new shared bike lanes be three kilometres long on North Park, York and Alexandra. Roughly 1.5 kilometres of shared bike lanes were implemented on Glen Allan Drive in 2010. The new shared bike lanes are expected to take effect around June or July.

Lumberjacks quiet on trade deadline day

The CIBC Wood Gundy Lumberjacks were quiet as the MHL's trade deadline passed at 10pm Tuesday night. The club didn't budge on moving day but took several calls inquiring about Captain Jake Bullen. Head Coach Terry Rhindress says Bullen is staying put.

"He made the decision that he'd like to stay and finish his year out here and, you know, I took some phone calls on Jake today (Tuesday), but it was just nothing worth wild to move the young man against his request."

Rhindress wouldn't say what teams were after Bullen, but did mention they were Bent Division squads. It was a relatively quiet trade deadline day as only 10 trades were reported to the MHL website as of 10pm Tuesday night. Rhindress says he's not surprised by the lack of movement.

"If you look at our side, our division, it's pretty tight, right. So, not a lot of teams are going to give anything up or they're all looking but nobody wants to give a whole lot up because we're pretty stockpiled on this side, right."

Only eight points separates the top five teams in the Bent Division. The Lumberjacks get back on the ice Thursday night at 7pm in Bridgewater against the Metro Marauders. If you can't make it to the game, you can tune into Nick Yorston and Eric Whynot, beginning at 6:50pm at www.lumberjackslive.ca .

MODL selects Cobequid Trail Consulting to build Osprey Village Connection

Cobequid Trail Consulting has been selected to design and build the Osprey Village Trail Connection. The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg awarded the contract to the group after recommendations from its review committee. A member of the committee, Trudy Payne, says it was a unanimous decision to choose Cobequid Trail Consulting.

"Probably the two major factors was they had a lot of experience and they fit within the 'level of effort' that was put in the request for proposal."

The multi-use trail is expected to be constructed between the rail-trail along the LaHave River to the Osprey Village site in Cookville. Cobequid Trail Consulting is expected to begin work immediately after receiving the budgeted $65,000 for the project.

No Charges Following Fatal Accident in Waterloo

No charges will be laid following a fatal accident in Lunenburg County last week. RCMP attribute the accident to poor road conditions and speed was not a factor in the crash involving a car and a snow plow. A 29 year-old Chelsea woman was killed in the collision while a 31 year-old male was taken hospital. The crash occurred last Thursday on Highway 210 in Waterloo.

Kinsmen Outdoor Rinks waiting on weather: Councillor Mitchell

A pair of outdoor rinks are waiting on the weather before they can be used. Councillor David Mitchell says workers spent last Saturday constructing the rinks.

"Two outdoor rinks were assembled by about 15-16 men from about 8:30am to just after 12pm and they had both up and ready to go, we just need cold weather so we can flood them."

Two ice surfaces have been built at the Kinsmen ball field; one to accomodate ice hockey and the other for family skating. Mitchell is hopeful the rinks will both have ice by next week.

Former Bridgewater Town Manager passes away at 69

Charles Sinclair "Chuck" Shannon

A former town manager of Bridgewater has passed away. Charles Sinclair "Chuck" Shannon died at age 69 at South Shore Regional Hospital last Thursday. Mayor Carroll Publicover says he had a chance to work with Shannon while in Bridgewater.

"He was a very fine gentleman, very fine gentleman. Very capable. And he had been a CAO in Kings County at one time and then came to us from there and performed admirably in his position and I was pleased to have known him."

He is survived by his wife of 43 years, Loretta ; daughters, Dr. Charlene Shannon and Carletta Shannon. Arrangements have been entrusted to Sweeny’s Funeral Home in Bridgewater. Online condolences may be made at www.sweenysfuneralhome.com

Bridgewater's Prest wins juvenile under-18 curling championship

A Bridgewater curling team will represent Nova Scotia after winning the boys final at the juvenile under-18 championships in New Glasgow. Daniel Prest defeated Chester's Daniel Jessome 11-4 in Monday afternoon's championship game. Prest's squad scored five in the sixth end to close out the match. Elsewhere, Chester's Mary Fay fell 4-3 to Lakeshore's Hayley McCabe in the girls final. The winners now head to the Under-18 Atlantic Championship also in New Glasgow on Easter weekend.

VIDEO: Ottawa Supports those with Disability

The federal government is helping people with disabilities in Bridgewater find jobs. South Shore-St. Margaret's MP Gerald Keddy announced over $144,000 in funding that is expected to help 25 people with disabilities develop skills and experience to find work in Lunenburg and Queens Counties. The chairperson of Employment Solutions Society's board of directors, Dawn Huskins-Townsend, says the money is a big help.

"It is our bread and butter to be able to access federal dollars for our clients to be able to continue to support the local community and as I spoke about, the rural community in particular, to find viable job opportunities within the local community for persons with disabilities is critical."

Keddy says the money is an important step for persons with disabilities.

"By supporting this project, our government is helping Canadians with disabilities maximize their potential and independence."

Executive Director Margaret Matthews says people who apply will go through a process and if approved, money would be doled out on an as needed basis. The federal funding is being provided through the Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities.



South Shore-St. Margaret's MP Gerald Keddy looks on as the chairperson for Employment Solutions Society's board of directors , Dawn Huskins-Townsend, speaks about the government's funding for people with disabilities. 

 

Municipality of Barrington reviewing council size

A public hearing is scheduled for Tuesday afternoon to discuss polling districts in the Municipality of Barrington. The Municipality has applied to the province's Utility and Review Board to reduce the number of districts and councillors from seven to five. The application also looks at amending the polling boundaries. The meeting will be held Tuesday at 1pm at municipal council chambers in Barrington.

Price Wars: South Shore & Area Lobster Fishermen's Association

A new association consisting of South Shore and area fishermen is picking up steam and looking for support. The group - consisting of approximately 150 fishermen - formed earlier this month in a bid to get better prices for lobster. Retired fisherman James Mood is leading the charge for new association. Mood says the group will hold meetings this week in Yarmouth and Shelburne. He says the meetings are open to everyone and is encouraging area residents to rally behind the new association. Mood says beginning midnight on Tuesday, fishermen will hold their catch until they get at least $5.50 per pound of lobster. The association has yet to officially select a name.

CKBW/HANK FM Poll: Results

More than half the residents along the South Shore are not very confident about their personal finances as we start 2012. Our latest CKBW/Hank FM poll, asked the question: Are you confident about your finances? Fifty-four percent of respondents are saying "Not at all" while 24 percent said they ARE confident. Twenty-two percent say they are slightly confident with their finances. Canadian Taxpayers Federation Atlantic President Kevin Lacey says there's no surprise in those numbers. "Not surprised at all, particularly in the South Shore, where your seeing places like Bowater lose jobs, employment is down year after year, so its getting worse before its getting better," A total of 79 people voted in our on-line survey over the weekend.

New Deputy Chief of Bridgewater Police Service

A long time member of the Bridgewater Police Service has been promoted. Scott Freener has been appointed Deputy Chief of the local police service. Feener began his policing career with the Toronto Police Service where he served 5 years in Patrol and Traffic. He's been serving the Bridgewater community since in 1993 and in his new role, Freener will be officer in charge of operations. The Bridgewater Board of Police Commissioners and Chief John Collyer announced the appointment over the weekend.

Mustangs Taken Down at Kiwanis

The South Shore Canadian Tire Mustangs have been eliminated from play in Gatineau, Quebec. The local major midget club lost 5-2 to the Toronto Titans in a penalty-filled game last night in the Kiwanis International hockey tournament. A total of 19 penalties were called. Jamie McIntyre and Alex Mann scored for the Mustangs while Cole Skinner stopped 29 shots in the loss.

Busy Night for South Shore Firefighters

A pair of fires last night on different ends of the South Shore. The first one was a house fire in Shelburne County around 9PM.  Barrington Firefighters were first to respond to the blaze on Villagedale road. Island & Barrington Passage, Port Clyde and Port Latour Fire Departments also responded to the scene to assist. EHS was also dispatched to standby at the scene. It's not known at this time if there were any injuries Meanwhile, a chimney fire broke out at a home on Highway 3 in Chester around 10:40PM.  Fire crews responded to the scene and took care of the blaze with little problem.

Walker steps down as 'Jacks Govenor

The Governor of the CIBC Wood Gundy Lumberjacks has stepped down. David Walker decided to leave the position and vacate his seat on the team's board of directors to focus more on municipal politics. He says he expects to be busy over the next year as he makes a run at the mayors seat. Walker says he also stepped down to dispel any notions that his role with Bridgewater council meant the Lumberjacks received whatever they wanted. He says he expects owner Ken Petrie to fill the position for the remainder of the year. Municipal and School Board elections will he held in Nova Scotia in October.

Woodstock Slam Lumberjacks

A spirited fight by the CIBC Wood Gundy Lumberjacks but not enough to take down the Woodstock Slammers. A three goal first period was enough to give the visiting team a 5-2 win over the Jacks last night. Head Coach Terry Rhindress says a couple turnovers in their own zone was the difference on the scoreboard. Michael Crawley and Nick Gouthro scored for the Jacks while Billy Clarke made 23 saves in the loss. The Jacks will try and halt their seven game losing skid tonight when they head to Amherst to play the Ramblers.

Province/Bowater Mersey Reach $23.7 M Land Deal

The Nova Scotia Government has reached an agreement to buy just over 10,000 hectares of land from Bowater Mersey. The $23.7 million dollar land deal involves various parcels of land from five counties in western Nova Scotia The largest parcel is 5,665 hectares and located is in Annapolis County. Almost 5,500 acres from Queens and 230 from Lunenburg County was also purchased by the province. The land includes forests, old-growth timber stands, ocean and lake frontage, wetlands and some land of cultural significance to the Mi'kmaq. The purchase is part of the government's $50 million bailout package for Bowater's Brooklyn-based paper mill.

Breaking: Shut Down at Bowater Mersey Extended

A shutdown at Bowater Mersey's Paper Mill in Brooklyn has been extended another week. The paper making machines at the mill have been off since Christmas and employees were expected to resume work on Monday. However, Bowater's CEO Brad Pelley says the company has decided to extend their downtime another week because of poor market conditions in Europe. Pelley says operations at the mill will now resume on January 16th. "Selling paper in Europe right now is not a particularly attractive place to sell. Producer who have traditionally sold a lot of volume in Europe are now looking to other markets. There is also over supply issues in both Asia and Latin America as well...those are markets we traditionally serve and prices are being depressed as a result," The company understands the economic uncertainty in Europe won't improve in a week. However, he says by pulling some volume out of the market it may increase the demand for paper products.

RCMP identify Waterloo crash victim

The name of the victim of Thursday's accident on highway 210 in Waterloo has been released by Lunenburg County RCMP. 29-year-old Naomi Rosemary Steele of Chelsea died late Thursday morning when the car she was driving collided with a snowplow. The crash happened during a snowstorm that had created slippery driving conditions. A 31-year-old male passenger in the car was sent to South Shore Regional Hospital with non life threatening injuries. The driver of the plow wasn't hurt.

UARB approves power rate hike for Lunenburg utility

Residents of Lunenburg will be paying more for their power. The utility and review board has approved a rate hike but not as much as most Nova Scotians. The increase of slightly less than 10 per cent for customers of the Lunenburg electric utility is retroactive to the start of the year. Staff have not worked out exactly what the price of electricity will be for the local utility's clients. Customers paid 14 per cent less than Nova Scotia Power clients did prior to the rate hike. Lunenburg buys its power from Nova Scotia Power.

South Shore Lobster Fishers to Fight for Higher Prices

Approximately 150 fishermen along the South Shore are prepared to enter into a battle for higher lobster prices. The fishermen have rallied to form a new association that will give them better representation when dealing with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans. The group met on Wednesday in Barrington for the first time to chart a future path. The new association, that has yet to select an official name, doesn't want to sell any lobsters for less than $5.50 a pound. The new pricing will take effect by midnight next Tuesday, when fishermen will hold their catch until they get what they are demanding. Mood says the unnamed association has to work through a regulatory process to be formally recognized by DFO. Lobster is currently selling for about $5.00 per pound.

Chester Pulls Plug on proposed Wind Energy Project in St. Croix

Chester Council has decided to pull out of a proposed wind energy project in St. Croix. Minas Basin Pulp and Paper have been looking for partners to try and move the proposed $16 million dollar project and had reached out to the municipality for support. Council had been mulling over investing four to five-million dollars into the project. However, during their meeting on Thursday, council determined the return on their investment wouldn't be worth getting involved in the project. Warden Allen Webber says there were too many unknowns surrounding the project. He says the project could still move forward but without the municipality.

South Shore hockey book to be launched

A new book is out describing the history of hockey on the South Shore. 'A History of Hockey on the South Shore and The Guys of the South Shore 1962-63 / 1963-64 Two Nova Scotia Championships' is the books title. It also reflects on hockey teams that played on the South Shore including the Chester Ravens, Lunenburg Victorias and Falcons, Bridgewater Hawks and Liverpool Rovers. Author Kie MacIsaac says the book also talks about the history of local rinks.

"The two rinks that had artificial ice surfaces were Lunenburg and Bridgewater and in the early 1920s, hockey was played in the outdoor arenas in Chester and Liverpool. So, it captures a lot of that information."

MacIsaac says the book focuses on a time period between 1889-1965. The book will be launched at Friday night's hockey game between the Lumberjacks and Woodstock starting at 7pm. MacIsaac will be on-hand to sell and sign the book at a cost of $19.95.

Shelburne monument damaged by vandals

Photo Courtesy of Lisa Crowell/Facebook

A monument in memory of a former Shelburne student has been damaged by vandals. Shelburne RCMP say they are looking for information after a marble stone monument at Hillcrest Academy Elementary School was smashed. The memorial is for Sara Ann Crowell, who died of injuries from an all-terrain vehicle crash 10 years ago. She passed away the day before her 10th birthday. Police say they believe the damage was done between December 16 and December 30. Anyone with information should contact Shelburne RCMP.

Mustangs improve to 1-1 in Gatineau

The South Shore Canadian Tire Mustangs have a notch in the win column at the Kiwanis hockey tournament in Gatineau. Shaun MacEachern scored once and added two assists as the Mustangs earned a 4-1 win Thursday afternoon over Rockland CIHA of Ontario. Josh Shatford, Brandon Challoner and Morgan Messenger also scored while Corey Peterson stopped 22 shots in the win. MacEachern was named the player of the game for the Mustangs. The major midget club gets back on the ice against the Toronto Titans Friday afternoon. For all tournament action, head to http://www.midgetkiwanis.com/en-ca/ .

BREAKING NEWS: Fatal Collision on Highway 210 - UPDATED

A Chelsea woman has died after a collision involving a vehicle and a snow plow. The crash occurred on Highway 210 near Waterloo around 11:30AM. Mounties say the 29 year-old female driver lost control of the vehicle and slid into the path of the oncoming plow.  A 31 year-old male passenger was transported to South Shore Regional Hospital in Bridgewater with undetermined injuries.  Police say roads were slick at the time of the collision due to heavy snowfall and sub zero temperatures. The woman's name or age has not been released. Numerous accidents have been reported along the South Shore today and Mounties are asking motorists to slow down.

Serious Accident on Highway 210 - UPDATED

Emergencies responders are responding to a serious accident on Highway 210. RCMP, EHS and local fire departments from Newcombville and Bridgewater are on the scene. Mounites have told CKBW/HANK FM News they are closing down a portion of the highway near the Waterloo Road. The conditions at the accident scene aren't known at this time. Some snow flurries and freezing temperatures have made for tricky driving conditions this morning. RCMP are advising motorists to slow down until conditions improve. Vehicles have also been seen off the road along Highway 103 near Mahone Bay. No word on the seriousness of those particular incidents.

Flurries Make Driving Tricky in South Shore

A few flurries and sub zero temperatures have made for slick road conditions today in the South Shore. Motorists are being advised to drive with caution until conditions improve. Police report icy and slick roads. There have been reports of some vehicles in the ditch along Highway 103 around Mahone Bay. No word on the severity of those incidents. Mounties are encouraging motorists to slow down.

Mustangs drop opener in Gatineau

The South Shore Canadian Tire Mustangs dropped their opening game at the Kiwanis Midget tournament in Gatineau, Quebec. The Moncton Flyers scored twice in the 3rd period on route to a 3-1 over the South Shore club. Connor Hirtle scored the lone goal for the Mustangs while Jamie Blair had the only assist. Cole Skinner stopped 21 shots and received player of the game honours in the loss. The Mustangs next game will be against Rockland CIHA of Ontario Thursday afternoon at 12:15 eastern time. Follow all the action online at http://www.midgetkiwanis.com/en-ca/ .

Beer and Food Baron Strikes in Windsor

 A hungry, beer guzzling thief has struck near Windsor. RCMP say someone broke into a home in Walton on New Year's Eve but they weren't looking for expensive flat screens, laptops or Ipad's. The thieves were just looking to raid the fridge. Police say all that was stolen was some food and beer while everything else in the home was left untouched. RCMP are looking for information on the crime but its doubtful the goods can be recovered.

Bridgewater Deputy Mayor reaffirms desire to be next Mayor

Deputy Mayor David Walker

A long-time Bridgewater council member is reiterating his desire to be the town's next mayor. Municipal elections are still 10 months away, but David Walker has once again stated his intent to run for the position. He says the timing is right.

"After 20 years and the last seven basically as the Deputy Mayor, if there was a time to offer for mayor, it is now. I think all the cards are lined up and it's the appropriate time to make a decision and I say yeah, I would love the opportunity to serve as the mayor."

Walker has served under three mayors; Tom Bird, Ernie Bolivar and Carroll Publicover. He says the three men have helped prepare him to lead the town.

"All three brought a passion and a love for the community and a desire to improve the community. I've learned from each of them, different things but that's one thing that they all have passed on, to whomever the next mayor is."

Walker says he began thinking about the mayoral decision after current mayor Carroll Publicover announced this would be his final term. He says it's still early but if his health remains the same, he intends to run for mayor of Bridgewater in October's municipal elections.

Liberal Health Critic blasts Dexter Gov't over ER closures

Liberal health critic and MLA for Kings-West is blasting the Dexter government after about a dozen Emergency Rooms in Nova Scotia were hit with closures over the Christmas-New Years period. The closures were a result of too few staff and Leo Glavine says its a disgrace. "We have physician and ER specialists from Nova Scotia that go to Ontario for two 24-hour shifts and we can't keep our own emergency rooms open? There is something dreadfully wrong with that picture," He wants the government to throw in the towel, admit its mistakes and target ways of improving the system. Glavine suggests a provincial database be established to match available doctors with the needs of ERs with vacancies. Glavine calls it a province wide crisis in the rural ER's. He says its only a matter of time before there's a fatality resulting from a patient not getting proper care.

Not for Sale: CIBC Wood Gundy Lumberjacks

The owner of the CIBC Wood Gundy Lumberjacks has shot down rumours the junior club might be up for sale. In an exclusive interview, Ken Petrie told our newsroom he doesn't have any plans to put the Jacks on the market now or in the future. The club is struggling this season and sit in the basement of the Bent Division, but Petrie says the club is young and heading in the right direction. "We've gone through the tough times. We're very much looking forward to moving into a new facility (Lunenburg County Lifestyle Center) building a team this year that will be very competitive in the years ahead...so no...absolutely not...our hockey team is not for sale," Attendance for home games has been somewhat inconsistent this season and Petrie is hoping fans will continue to support the team for the remainder of the season. The Lumberjacks will hit the ice at the new Queen's Emera Place facility next month. Petrie says the club looks forward to playing in Liverpool and introducing the team to some new fans.

New Canadian Forces action figures in Bridgewater

Photo Courtesy of Heroes Force

It's hard to believe the idea hasn't been thought of yet. But, a Truro man is one of three people behind new action figures dawning Canadian military colours. Graphic Artist John Alan Sperry designed the figures in Air Force, Army and Navy clothing. He says it was important to make figures depicting Canada's military.

"It's almost recognition for their efforts. You know, it's just a small action figure but people are actually attaching themselves and seeing this as some significance and some appreciation and notice of people's effort of their family members."

Canadian military member Shannon Thibodeau of Meteghan started the project. Sperry says 6,000 action figures were made and they've been a hit so far across the country.

"We're getting emails all across Canada already, I guess people are just jumping on this thing and really appreciating it and I think that's part of it. There's a Canadian flag actually on the left arm of the figure and I think there's a lot of pride involved."

Sperry says they've sold about half of the action figures so far, with one dollar going to the Soldier on Fund for military personnel and families of injured members. The action figures sell for around $10 and can be found locally at Miller Optical in the Eastside Plaza, Bridgewater.

Bearcats down Lumberjacks

Another game against Truro, another loss for the CIBC Wood Gundy Lumberjacks. The Bearcats scored twice in the first and added two in the third in a 5-2 win. Head Coach Terry Rhindress says a sluggish first period hurt his club.

"After we got the first period in, I thought we competed hard, stayed strong, made it 3-2 late in the game, made a couple mistakes and you know, it ended up 5-2 but overall, I thought after the first period we played hard."

Brennan Saulnier and Nick Guthro scored for the Jacks while Billy Clarke stopped 36 shots in the loss. Truro has won all five of its games against the Jacks this season, outscoring them 36-9. The Lumberjacks will try and halt their six-game losing streak Friday night when they host the Woodstock Slammers.

B & E in Western Shore

It wasn't the best end to the year for a home owner in Western Shore. A home in the area was targeted in a break and enter that ocurred on Friday morning just before the New Year's long weekend. Mounties say various electronics, some musical instraments and a quantity of coins were stolen. Police are hoping someone comes forward with some tips to help with the investigation.

White Point unveils Construction Webcam

White Point Construction Camera at 12:51pm January 3, 2012

A tourist hot spot in Liverpool is giving you a chance to watch them rebuild their historic main lodge. White Point has unveiled a construction webcam that was requested by the public after a devastating fire November 12. The marketing and product development manager at White Point, Donna Hatt, says they didn't anticipate the webcam being available so quickly.

"We were nervous in going live at first with the construction camera purely because people had been grieving the loss of the main lodge and the memories and so many of the pieces and artifacts that were inside, and to show the site completely cleared was quite an emotional time for many people."

Hatt says the webcam will provide a day-to-day view of the construction process over the next 10 months.
The webcam went live December 31. You can visit the construction webcam at www.novascotiawebcams.com/south-shore/white-point-construction.html .

New Year's Baby: Healthy Girl Born in Bridgewater

A Bridgewater couple is ringing in the New Year with a little bundle of joy. Melissa and Steve Bishop are the proud parents of the South Shore's first new born of 2012. Lucy Maria Bishop was born at 9:09AM on New Year's Day at the South Shore Regional Hospital in Bridgewater. Lucy weighed-in at six pounds, twelve ounces. Her father, Steve, says they have a very healthy little girl and adds mom is doing just fine and resting at home.

Dexter: On Track to Eliminate Deficit

Nova Scotia is on track for better economic times within a year or two. That prediction from premier Darrell Dexter as he talked about the economy during a year-end interview with CKBW/Hank FM News. The premier says his government will work this year to make the province more economically competitive despite dismal uncertainty elsewhere. "Every economic forecast says that we are on track to lead Atlantic Canada and likely to lead some parts of the rest of the country in terms of economic growth and that will be the first time that's happened in 20 years," The premier says any help for the middle class will have to wait until the province balances its books on a projected 365 million dollar deficit. The premier tells us the government is still on track for 2014.

McNeil: Premier Should Check Facts

Liberal leader Stephen McNeil disagrees with the premier's "better times are ahead" forecast. In his year-end interview with CKBW/HANK FM, McNeil says Darrell Dexter should check the facts. "We have some of the highest taxes in the country, high power rates and the list goes on - it's going to make it more difficult to maintain employment and we're haring that in practically ever community we go through in Nova Scotia. I mean we lost 6,600 jobs last year and the trend looks like it's going to continue," McNeil reiterates his call for reducing taxes and power costs to make the province more competitive.

Ballie: Focus on Health Care/Education

A way has to be found to heal the ailing health care system, according to Conservative leader Jamie Baillie. In a CKBW/Hank FM News interview, Baillie says one task that should be undertaken in this new year is to look at cutting ballooning bureaucratic budgets and putting that money into better things."Do we really need in a province of 900,000 a health system that has ten district health authorities, ten CEO's, 72 vice presidents, 152 executives directors and so on...maybe there is a better way to manage health care to get some of that cost out of the bureaucracy and reinvest in front line care and even reduce our deficit," On another issue of 2011, Baillie says firing the entire South Shore Regional School Board was a drastic measure taken by the education minister to solve what appears to have been a chronic problem. He says it should have been left up to the electorate to decide when the next municipal election rolled around.

Ramey Talks First Contract Legislation and Michelin Bill

The NDP MLA for Lunenburg West is setting the record straight on his decision to support first contract legislation in Nova Scotia. Both the Tories and Grits opposed the labour bill and hyped up the legislation as a bad move that would hurt future investment in the province. However, Gary Ramey says he believes it's a case where Nova Scotians were mainly misinformed or didn't even read the legislation. "First of all, I got very few calls, four or five emails and two or three letters on the issue. On a daily basis I probably get fifteen to twenty calls about roads, ditches, bushes - that sort of thing and I got a number of calls from people who supported it," Ramey says another reason behind his government's decision to bring forward the bill is to ensure Nova Scotia's $25 billion dollar Shipbuilding Contract goes smoothly. "What we didn't want to happen is if there ever were a glitch along the way we didn't want to be in the position where we were introducing this legislation when there was already a problem. It's still not any easier to get a union started, you still have to have a union vote and go through the entire process," Ramey says first contract legislation won't impact the status of non-unionized companies such as Michelin because of Nova Scotia's long standing law referred to as the "Michelin Bill".

On Tap: Bridgewater's LCLC Project and Amalgamation

A majority of Bridgewater councillors say the loss of the Fairview Inn was the town's biggest story in 2011. However, some members have a different opinion. Mayor Carroll Publicover believes the biggest story was the beginning of a 10-year study of potential joint services and amalgamation between Mahone Bay, Bridgewater and the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg. He says the study could impose some change in Lunenburg County. "I think its long overdue that we in an objective manner and a subjective manner look at the benefits of doing business together and possibly being one-government down the road," Meanwhile, Deputy Mayor David Walker feels the Lunenburg County Lifestyle Centre was a big achievement for 2011. "Bringing that to fruition, bringing us closer with the municipality in partnering in that and delivering something that the community identified as a real need is one of the highlights for me, I've been around here long enough to know that we have a lot of studies about a multi-purpose so that's a big one for me," Construction of the LCLC is expected to begin in March.

Review 2011: Tough First Half for Lumberjacks

It was a tough 2011 for the CIBC Wood Gundy Lumberjacks. The local junior club is in the midst of a troubling season, winning only 11 of their first 35 games. Head Coach Terry Rhindress says his club has been bothered by the injury bug. "We've had a lot of concussion related injuries, it bothers me a little bit that we haven't been able to put a full solid line-up on the ice game after game for the fans," Rhindress says his club has experienced some growing pains, which has left them in last place in the Bent Division. "Yeah, we are in last place but when you look at some of the games we lost, a lot of them were heartbreakers. We out played a lot of teams but just didn't get the bounces," The Jacks will need to post some early wins in 2012 to give themselves a shot at the playoffs. Their first game of the new year will be Tuesday, January 3rd at home against Truro.

Curling: AMJ Championship Heating Up in Windsor

A playoff spot is on the line this morning at the AMJ Campbell Provincial Junior Curling championships in Windsor when defending champ Lindsay Doucet of Chester faces Mayflower's Emily Dwyer in the "B" Division final. Dwyer is unbeaten while Doucet's only loss came against Dwyer yesterday. Four other teams are still alive including Chester's Mary Fay. Action kicked off this morning at 9 o'clock. On the guys side four teams are still in the hunt with Colten Steele of Dartmouth and Stuart Thompson of Mayflower leading the way with 4-1 records. Thomas Raddall of Bridgewater was eliminated last evening following a 10-6 to Robert Mayhew. Winners will advance to the Canadian championships in Napanee, Ontario next month

Review 2011: Fire @ White Point Beach Resort

It was a year marred by tragedy for White Point. In a year-end interview with the General Manager of the Liverpool-based resort, Danny Morton tells us the November 12 fire abruptly halted a good business season. He reflects on the day fire broke out in the main lodge. "It really was one of those periods where you're just thinking moment to moment and you can only do what you can do in the moment...but if there was a point where you had down time, that's when the emotion would throw you for a loop but you'd have to shake it on and look forward," The fire eventually destroyed the lodge, temporarily putting around 100 employees out of work. Morton says the community support has been overpowering. "It was unexpected to the degree that it has happened. For my whole staff and myself, we're all just very grateful for the role that we are playing in the community," A design team has been announced with plans to have a new main lodge built by the fall.

Bowater Mersey Top Story for MLA

Queens County has certainly had its share of ups and downs for 2011. From the death and murder trial of Laura Lee Robertson to the opening of Queens Place, the region was the centre of attention for the South Shore this year. Queens MLA Vicki Conrad spoke to CKBW/HANK FM News in a year-end interview. She says Bowater was the region's top story this year."I think the impact had Bowater shut it doors would have been felt throughout the South Shore, I mean we're talking about 2,000 direct or indirect jobs," Other highlights for Conrad include the tragic fire at White Point that destroyed the Liverpool-based resorts historic lodge. Conrad was also pleased the NDP government moved ahead with First Contract Arbitration during the fall session of the legislature.

Curling: Dartmouth Rink Secures Top Seed at AMJ

Dartmouth's Colton Steele has grabbed the first playoff spot at the AMJ Campbell Junior Curling Championships in Windsor.  Steele topped Drew MacCormack of the host club 8-3 in today's "A" division qualifier.  Meantime, Thomas Raddall of Bridgewater dropped to 2-2 after an 11-3 setback against Stuart Thompson of Mayflower. Raddall faces elimination in tonight's 8 o'clock draw. In the junior women's division Lindsay Doucette and Micayla Dorey of Chester are both 2-1 while clubmate Mary Faye is in a must-win situation at 0-2.

Review 2011: Chester has a busy December

It was a hectic finish to 2011 for residents and council in Chester. A long standing land dispute within Wild Rose Park in Western Shore was resolved through expropriation just days before Christmas. The same day, council announced it would enter into a lease-purchase agreement with a private company to rebuild the beloved wharf within the park. During a year end interview, Warden Allen Webber admits they were big decisions to cap off a busy year. "Council has set the table, I guess is one way of describing it because we have these two big decisions - Wild Rose Park and the Western Shore Wharf - we've also received approval for $5.5 million wind energy project. Although those are big decision in this particular fiscal period, the real work starts next year and the year after,"  Webber also assured residents they won't see any tax spikes specific to the Wild Rose Park situation. Expropriating the land is expected to cost hundreds of thousands of dollars.