Lumberjacks' Losing Streak Ends With Big Win

The long losing streak is over. The CIBC Wood Gundy Lumberjacks doubled the Metro Shipbuilders 6-3 last night and in doing so, ended their 14-game losing streak. Co-captain Jacob Conrad had a huge game with three goals and two assists. Luc Ramey also posted five points including a goal and four assists while Shawn Boudreau had four points. The win gives the Lumberjacks a seven point lead over Metro in the battle for the final Eastlink Division playoff spot. The win came on the same day that Terry Rhindress stepped aside as coach and GM of the club.

Walker: Collaborative Clinic 'Good News' For Area

The addition of a collaborative health-care clinic to Bridgewater is music to the mayor's ears. David Walker says he's glad the province has decided to invest up to $300,000 for an area clinic. He says there's a sense of relief that comes with the announcement because the town has worked towards establishing a clinic over the last few years. Walker says the Bridgewater Development Association deserves credit for their effort.



The clinic is expected to house up to seven doctors. The clinic could be open as early as this summer.

Lunenburg: Essential Funds For Academy & Arena

The Town of Lunenburg will receive just over $30,000 for repairs to Lunenburg Academy. The money will help cover the cost of much needed repair work at the historic landmark and was part of several funding announcements made by South Shore-St. Margaret's MP Gerald Keddy on Tuesday. The local Member of Parliament also delivered nearly $17,000 to help replace the Lunenburg Arena's refrigeration condenser. The Lunenburg Board of Trade Society will see more than $170,000 in joint funding to help develop smart phone apps for a waterfront virtual tour of the town and a public WiFi zone. Keddy also delivered $150,000 in funding today for four projects in the Bridgewater area. Details on those announcements can be found: Bridgewater Projects Receive Funds

BREAKING: Rhindress Resigns As Lumberjacks Coach

Caught in the middle of a 13-game losing skid, Terry Rhindress has resigned as head coach and general manager of the CIBC Wood Gundy Lumberjacks. Rhindress resigned from his duties because of personal and family obligations. The 42-year-old says he misses his wife and nine-year-old daughter in New Brunswick and plans to take some time away from the game. Rhindress guided the team to a 21-63-1-2 through his two years behind the bench. He says a decision was made after a meeting with owner Ken Petrie this morning.



Rhindress says he wants to thank the community for their support and encouragement. Petrie confirmed with CKBW/HANK-FM that Don Dodman and Doug Petrie will remain as coaches for the rest of the season.

Conquerall Bank Church Loses Heritage Designation

The Redeemer Lutheran Church in Conquerall Bank is losing its heritage designation. MODL council voted unanimously to de-register the property following a public hearing Tuesday morning. A member of the Northfield and District parish asked council to approve the motion so they could take the proper steps to try and sell it. Mayor Don Downe says it isn't easy to lose a heritage property.



The Municipality of Lunenburg didn't receive any submissions against de-registering the property. The church has been a fixture in the community since 1863.

Health: Differences Between Norovirus & E.coli

Public health officials urge Nova Scotians to be aware of  the differences between E.coli and similar illnesses. Deputy Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Frank Atherton says norovirus infection or vomiting is common this time of year.  The most common symptoms of norovirus infection are sudden onset nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and stomach cramps. Sometimes there is a low-grade fever, chills, headache, muscle aches and fatigue. Dr. Atherton says that noroviruses have a quick onset and  people usually start to feel better within 12 to 24 hours. Confirmed cases of norovirus have been reported on the South Shore. However, there are no cases of the E. coli 0157 virus in this region. Anyone vomiting or having diarrhea longer than 72 hours, or experiencing bloody diarrhea, should call 811 or see their family doctor.



To avoid spreading norovirus:

-- wash hands often, especially after using the bathroom or changing diapers and before eating or preparing food

-- thoroughly clean floors, counters, and bathrooms. Pay extra attention to surfaces that are often touched

-- do not share glasses or dishes

-- use separate towels for sick family members.

Four Infrastructure Projects Secure Federal Funds

South-Shore St- Margaret's MP Gerald Keddy has announced just over $150,000 in support of four infrastructure projects in Lunenburg County. The biggest chunk, $51,000 will go to the Bridgewater Marina Association for upgrades to Mariner's Landing along with the marina itself. Meanwhile, HB Studio's Sports Centre will receive $48,000 for renovation work and the Saw Pit Wharf Park in Garden Lots will see $26,000 for improvements to the wharf area. In a joint funding arrangement, the Bay to Bay Trail Association will also receive more than $40,000 for upgrades to the trail between Mahone Bay and Lunenbueg. Ottawa will pitch in $26,000 while the provincial government will contribute $17,000 for upgrades to the trail system.

Rhindress Returns After World Under-17 Coaching Stint

The head coach for the CIBC Wood Gundy Lumberjacks calls it a great experience to be a part of. Terry Rhindress is back in Bridgewater after spending the last week as an assistant coach for team Atlantic at the World Under-17 Hockey Challenge in Quebec. The Atlantic squad finished eighth out of 10 teams. Rhindress says it was tough competition.




Rhindress returns to the Lumberjacks bench Tuesday night when they take on the Metro Shipbuilders in Halifax.

UPDATED: Bridgewater Assured Collaborative Clinic

The Nova Scotia government is prepared to invest hundreds of thousands into a new collaborative health-care clinic in Bridgewater. Premier Darrell Dexter made the announcement this afternoon at the South Shore Regional Hospital. The CEO of South Shore Health says the funding commitment will allow the health authority to move forward with rigorous recruitment initiative to bring doctors to the area. Peter Vaughan says they will seek five to seven new doctors to help staff the facility.



Vaughan says the clinic will open in the summer allowing the health authority to attract new graduates of medical programs. The location of the clinic and exact financial commitment from the province is still being worked out.

South Shore Health Re-Opens Wing Of Regional Hospital

A section of the South Shore Regional Hospital has re-opened to visitors. The health authority restricted visitation on the medical and surgical unit last week because of a stomach virus circulating among patients and staff. Lab tests have confirmed the illness as Norovirus, a common cause of gastroenteritis. Norovirus illness usually begins suddenly and can last up to three days. South Shore Health is reminding the public that regular and thorough hand washing can help prevent the spread of the illness.

Hearing To Determine Church's Heritage Status

A public hearing to determine the status of a church in Conquerall Bank will be held Tuesday. The Redeemer Lutheran Church was built in 1863 and has been a heritage property in the Municipality of Lunenburg since 1999. But now, the property owner wants to de-register it as a heritage property because its no longer being used as a house of worship on a regular basis and is in need of repairs. The owner is also trying to de-register the building in hopes of selling it. The hearing will be held at 11am at the Municipality of Lunenburg building on Aberdeen Road.

Health Foundation Preps For Annual Radiothon

Valentine's Day is just over a month away. That means the Health Services Foundation of the South Shore is preparing for its annual "Gift For The Heart" Radiothon. Bernadette Jordan of the Foundation says this year, its hoped funds will be raised to buy at least two new ventilators.



The radiothon airs all day on Thursday, February 14th, live on CKBW and HANK-FM from South Shore Regional Hospital.

Open Letter To Premier From Businessman Affected By Ferry Loss

Premier Darrell Dexter's recent comments about the loss of the Yarmouth ferry not impacting business and tourism are confusing to businessmen in the area. Bill Curry of Port Maitland saw his small familiy business disappear instantly when the connection to Maine was cancelled 3 years ago. Curry's fly-fish guiding service attracted hundreds of New England sport fishermen who had quick access to Nova Scotia by way of the ferry. He has now written an open-letter to the premier explaining the real impact on the economy. Curry says despite what the government claims, the ferry service could bring-in millions of dollars in revenue to the province if properly managed. He suggests the government should set it up and run-it themselves.


Curry hopes the government's promises of financial input hold water and a renewed ferry service takes shape. He says he and others likely won't start-up their old businesses again. Many, like Curry, have moved on to other endeavours.
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Here is a copy of Bill Curry's letter to Premier Darrell Dexter, written late last week:

Mr. Premier,

I was interested to hear your comments the other day in your year-end interview, particularly regarding the Yarmouth, Nova Scotia to Maine ferry service. You then spent yesterday trying to clarify what you said, and it occurred to me that perhaps some explanation of why people are so frustrated when you speak on this subject might help you understand why the reaction to your comments occurred.

First, in your comments you stated the loss of the ferry “had very little impact” on the area. You also mentioned that it is a myth that the economy is somehow linked to the ferry. As a business owner that was radically affected by the loss of the ferry, to the point I had to close my tourism based business, I can personally say that your comment is not true. However, your own Government commissioned report (The Gardner and Pinfold report) clearly spells out the facts that further disprove your comment. The report states that the local area of Yarmouth is more isolated because of the loss, the Regional economy was “supported” by the ferry service and said further “The data show that the loss of the ferry contributed to reduced spending and a contraction of economic activity throughout this region in 2010.” This would disprove your comment. And finally the report said the Provincial tourism numbers were impacted by the ferry loss, and in fact the report states, “It is not unreasonable to conclude that the termination of the ferry accounted for all or much of this reversal.” This also contradicts your comments. You then stated in response, when you were clarifying your comments, that the ferry is not a panacea for the economy. Nobody ever said it was. What everyone is constantly saying is that the ferry is one part of the important transportation infrastructure that should be in place for the Province.

Secondly, you used in your comments some numbers that I would question, and that many people might call intentionally misleading.

The first number that caught my attention was your statement that there were “22,000 passengers” in the last year of operation – 2009. Knowing that Stats Canada said there were 75,000 passengers that year, I looked and looked for where you could have come up with that number. I finally found a similar number in your Government report. The GP report mentions that there were 23,000 US day tourists who came to the Province in 2009 on the ferry. The fact that the report clearly states, in italic letters no less, that this is the number of visitors, not passengers, seems to have confused you. In reality these numbers simply show how many Nova Scotians and summer residents, who may or may not be American, indeed could be returning former Canadians, used the ferry and reinforces the fact that the ferry is an important part of the Provincial transportation system. As well, you indicated that the drop in the passenger numbers was a result of the economy, not that the economy suffered by the drop. That reasoning is also faulty in that in 2005 the capacity of the ferry was reduced, with the loss of the Scotia Prince, as the ferry system went from multiple crossings a day to single crossings and in that year alone the maximum crossing possible numbers went from 2100 a day to only 900. This had nothing to do with the economy – Scotia Prince Cruises has stated as much, clearly contradicting your comment.

Thirdly, you use a number in your comments that “it cost us $450 per passenger landed”. This number you used last year as well and I challenged you on that figure at the time and received no reply. With all due respect, sir, that number is entirely a fiction. If the cost was $450 per person, even if we only use your own figure of only Americans using the ferry, your statement implies the subsidy paid by the Province to land those people was $9.9 million. In fact, the amount paid (because you used past tense, you said “what it cost us”) was $5.65 million. Let me suggest that the kind of wildly inaccurate comment you have made here and repeated is a big part of the issue with many people in the Province trusting what you are telling us. The numbers are not only inaccurate in the actual number, (22,000 you stated instead of 23,000 actual and $9.9 million you stated instead of $8.9 million that is estimated), the numbers you used are also clearly wrong in the way you portray them. Another totally reasonable way to look at those same numbers would be to take the total number of passengers (75,000) and divide into the actual subsidy paid ($5.65 million) and one could say each passenger on the ferry cost the Government $75.33 !

I have asked several times for what your Government estimated the 2010 subsidy would be, and neither you nor anyone you’ve put me in contact with has been able or willing to reply. The closest I’ve been able to come is a report from a newspaper that mentioned the operating subsidy for 2010 might have been as high as $8.9 million, which if one divides by, say, 65,000 people to account for a drop that might or might not have occurred, takes the per passenger cost to the Province to $136. - a far cry from your comment that it costs the Province $450 per person. Clearly, the figures you are using in your comments are not accurate, they are, in fact, misleading.

In summary, let us revisit the comment you started with that the ferry had very little impact on the economy. The actual numbers your own study uses says that the loss of the ferry was over $16 million in tourism revenue – which would more than offset any subsidy ever paid or contemplated, making even the CAT, which clearly was not the best ship, profitable to the Province. Your own study also mentions that over 260 jobs were lost as a direct result of the loss of the ferry, including my own. With all due respect sir, that is NOT a “very little impact” to many of us in this Province.

I am heartened to hear that your Government is now considering a subsidy to assist in getting a ferry service back. I have to end with a personal comment – it never should have gone away in the first place. The Government should take a very complete look and instead of treating this as a “business will come forward” proposition, should carefully consider the importance of the ferry as a crucial transportation link, a link that the Province should clearly be paying for, as the entire Province benefits by having this essential transportation connection.

Sincerely,

Bill Curry

Lunenburg: Online Petition Created For Dog Park

An online petition has been created asking Lunenburg residents to sign if they're in favour of establishing a dog park in the town. The request for a dog park surfaced over the last few years but wasn't supported by council. Now, resident Peter Richardson is suggesting the idea once again. He says there needs to be an open space for dogs.



Richardson says they need between $23,000 and $25,000 to make the dog park a reality near Blockhouse Hill. The issue is expected to be discussed at Lunenburg council in the near future. You can sign the petition here .

UPDATED: RCMP Investigate Death In Liverpool

The RCMP is investigating the death of a 52 year-old man in Liverpool. Anthony Bogotaj was riding his bicycle on Main Street when he fell off on Friday afternoon. A section of the street was blocked off while paramedics attempted to revive the individual. He was later pronounced dead at the scene. Police say they are looking into the matter because he was involved in a dispute shortly before he died. It's not clear if the dispute is connected with Bogotaj's death. An autopsy will be performed by the Medical Examiner's Office in Halifax. Mounties are asking witnesses or anyone who had contact with Bogotaj to contact their detachment in Queens County.

VIDEO: LCLC Tour

Media were invited by the general manager of the Lunenburg County Lifestyle Centre to partake in a tour of the construction site.  Representatives were shown various parts including the locations of the active living space, Margaret Hennigar Library, and aquatic centre. The video shows a look at the arena and how far along workers with Bird Construction have come since starting construction last spring.

South Shore Health: Expect Long Wait Times In ER's

South Shore Health is advising residents to expect long waits for non-urgent care at each of its three hospitals. The emergency departments in Bridgewater, Lunenburg and Liverpool are dealing with high patient volumes which is creating delays in admissions and extended waits for non-emergency's. The health authority cites a lack of long term care beds, shortages in family physicians and seasonal illness as contributing factors. CEO Peter Vaughan says officials are exploring the possibility of creating a daytime walk-in clinic to ease the backlog of patients wanting to see a doctor. Vaughan says the health authority is doing all it can to ensure people have access to health care.

Bridgewater: Outdoor Rinks Await Water

A pair of outdoor rinks in Bridgewater are waiting on water before they can be used. The two structures have been built since before Christmas but a lack of cold weather prevented them from opening. Now, the temperatures have dropped and volunteers are working with the town's fire department to fill the rinks with water. Councillor Andrew Tanner hopes that can happen this weekend.



The rinks are located on Kinsmen Field. One rink is used for ice hockey while the other is used for general skating. For updates, you can visit the facebook group here .

Bowater Deal Could Cost Much More Than Thought

The former Bowater mill's power deal could end up costing the Nova Scotia group that now owns the closed paper mill more than three million dollars this year. The province inherited the arrangement when it acquired the mill's assets and liabilities last month from Resolute Forest Products. ReNova, the renamed Bowater Mersey Paper Company, has estimated net debits of 200-thousand to 300-thousand dollars a month. The opposition Liberals and PC's are calling on the Dexter government to reveal the costs of the deal, saying they're concerned about the liabilities the province has taken on.

Gasoline Prices Rise Again

It will cost you more to fill up the car or truck with regular or high test gas and diesel. Prices at South Shore pumps have increased today, as predicted. For the first time in a few weeks, the price of regular self serve has cracked the one dollar and 30 cent mark per litre. Its selling now for $1.30.1 per litre. Diesel is also up today, priced at $1.37 a litre. Thats about two cents more.

Annual New Year's Classic Basketball Tourney Underway

The 39th annual Bridgewater High School New Year’s Classic Basketball Tournament opens up play today. Teams participating will include Park View, Liverpool, Middleton, Hants North, Hants East, Millwood, North Kings Education Centre, and, of course, the host Bridgewater High School Vikings. Games started at 10am this morning and continue throughout the day with two evening games being held at Park View at 6pm and 8pm. There will be an Alumni game played at 10:00 pm featuring only alumni players. Games continue on Saturday at BHS, starting at 9:00 am. The championship game is scheduled for 3pm.

Bridgewater: Stomach Virus Still Going Around

A section of the South Shore Regional Hospital in Bridgewater will remain closed to visitors over the weekend. The health authority issued the restriction earlier this week because of a severe stomach virus circulating among patients. Hospital spokesperson Theresa Hawkesworth says another new case has been confirmed bringing the total number of patients dealing with the illness to ten. She says 48 hours need to pass without a confirmed new case before the restriction can be lifted. The gastrointestinal illness is primarily affecting patients on the third floor in the medical and surgical unit. All other outpatient hospital services at the hospital are available.

Busy Times At LCLC

Crews continue to chip away on construction at the Lunenburg County Lifestyle Centre. General Manager Kevin Benjamin says a small group of workers were on-site over the holidays. He says there is lots happening including concrete being poured, roofing on the pool area, along with some plumbing and electrical work.



Benjamin says they're on par to meet a summer deadline. Bird Construction started working on the $33.5-million facility last spring. Plans for the facility include an NHL-size ice surface, a six lane 25 metre pool and library. You can watch construction as it happens from the comfort of your own home by clicking here .

Premier Out Of Touch On Ferry Issue Says Yarmouth MLA

Premier Darrell Dexter's recent comments about the state of the economy in western Nova Scotia since the Yarmouth ferry ceased operating are being taken to task by the area's Liberal MLA. Zach Churchill of Yarmouth says if the premier believes all is well, tourism is booming and no jobs have been lost since the ferry service was cut 3 years ago, then he's living in a world of his own.



The premier made his comments during an interview this week. He said the decision to cut the subsidy on the service has "had little impact on Southwestern Nova Scotia" and he said its a myth that the economy in the area was linked to the ferry. Yet, a few months ago, the premier committed 21 million provincial dollars toward a new Yarmouth to Maine ferry service and he's asked Ottawa to provide an additional 15 to 30 million. Zach Churchill says: "we've lost 3,700 full time jobs and 2,800 people have left Southern Nova Scotia since the Dexter government cut the ferry." Churchill says people in the area are fed up with the delays. He says the Yarmouth ferry will be a key issue when the next provincial election is called.

Tancook Island Ferry Back In Operation

People living on Big and Little Tancook Islands or those on the mainland wanting to go there will be glad to know the ferry is up and running again. Service was suspended yesterday by gale force winds and resulting rough seas. The "William G. Ernst" transports passengers back and forth from the mainland to the islands every day. It departs from Chester and services both Tancook Islands.

Gasoline Prices May Rise Again Overnight Tonight

Don't be surprised if gasoline and heating oil prices increase overnight on the South Shore. Prices are up again in New Brunswick today for the third week in a row. The new maximum price there for regular self-serve is $1.27 per litre, an increase of 2.1 cents over last week's setting. Diesel is up nearly two cents a litre this week. Furnace oil has also climbed just over a penny a litre.

Carver Recovering Well After Surgery In Toronto

A New Germany native says she has a new lease on life following double-lung transplant surgery. Thirty-three year old Jessica Carver has Cystic Fibrosis; a genetic disorder which critically affects the lungs, and also the pancreas and liver. She remains on the road to recovery in Toronto General Hospital following the surgery in mid-December. Carver's personal blog reveals she has regained her appetite and enjoyed New Year's Eve at the hospital with friends and family. She says she's grateful for all the support.



Carver hopes to be released from hospital sometime this week. She says the next three months are critical and she will have to take anti-rejection medicine and complete physiotherapy before she can return home. If all goes well, she hopes to return to the South Shore in March. You can read Carver's blog here .

Nearly 45 Aquaculture Jobs Headed To Shelburne

Two new aquaculture sites in Shelburne county will create 27 new jobs. Kelly Cove Salmon Limited, a subsidiary of Cooke Aquaculture, will operate the new pens in Jordan Bay. Spokeswoman Nell Halse says the new sites will be installed and stocked later this spring. The Nova Scotia Government issued the approval to operate the sites last month. The approval is contingent on strict agreements to ensure the sites will protect the local fishing industry and coastal environment. Meanwhile, employees within the provincial aquaculture division are set to Shelburne early in the new year. The move will bring another 15 full-time jobs to the area. Cooke is also in the process of designing a new state of the art hatchery for the Digby area and a processing facility in Shelburne.

Hospital Restricts Visitors After Illness Detected

The third floor at South Shore Regional Hospital has been temporarily closed to visitors because of a gastrointestinal illness circulating among patients. The medical and surgical unit will be restricted to visitors until further notice. Infection prevention practitioner, Sheila Lee, says they've seen a spike in illness from two patients to nine over the past 12 hours. She says there's no timeline for the visitor restriction.



Some exceptions to the restriction may apply for immediate family of critically ill patients. All outpatient hospital services are available. The health authority says thorough hand washing can help prevent the spread of this illness.

Bridgewater Couple Welcomes New Year's Baby

A Bridgewater couple have the first new year's baby for South Shore Health. Wesley Organ was born at 10:31AM on January 1st at the regional hospital in Bridgewater, weighing nine pounds and eight ounces. Twenty-five year old Megan Skinner and 29-year-old Jacy Organ are the proud parents. Jacy says they were a little surprised the baby was delivered New Year's Day.



The parents and baby are expected to leave the hospital today with their new bundle of joy.

Chester Has Concerns Over RDA's Dissolution

The Warden in Chester has some concerns over a proposal to dissolve regional development agencies in Nova Scotia. An independent panel has recommended the creation of six Regional Enterprise Network's across the province. Under the proposal for this region, municipal units from Halifax to Shelburne would join to form an REN - designed to better promote economic development. However, Allen Webber feels the new model is too broad.



The need to replace existing RDAs became necessary when the federal government announced last May it was cutting core funding to RDAs in the province. If the proposal moves forward, the REN's would replace Nova Scotia's 12 regional development agency's.

South Shore Taxpayers Paying More In 2013

Be prepared to see more of your income used to pay higher taxes in 2013. Provincially, the government here still refuses to index tax brackets to inflation and that means more taxation. The federal government also has tax increases of its own that took effect January 1st. They include hikes in EI premiums and CPP payroll taxes. Canadian Taxpayers Federation Atlantic director Kevin Lacey says we're paying more in taxes provincial and federally than elsewhere in the country. He says South Shore residents in particular know only too well that 2012 saw no improvement. The provincial government bailed out major employers like Bowater by pumping big bucks into their operations to keep them afloat.



Lacey believes the effects of those bailouts and company collapses will be felt for years.

In Review: MODL Mayor Recaps Challenging Year

The mayor for the Municipality of Lunenburg says 2012 was a trying year for the district, and hopes better times are ahead. Don Downe says community was hit hard with the Oakhill Sawmill closing and layoffs at the Whynotts Settlement Recycling Centre. But, he notes there were bright moments as well, including the beginning of joint services between the municipality and towns of Mahone Bay and Bridgewater. He also points to construction of the Lunenburg County Lifestyle Centre. Downe says it will be a dynamic addition to the area.




Construction is expected to wrap up before the fall of 2013. Downe expects the opening to be one of the many shining moments of the year.

RCMP: Plan Ahead Before Driving New Year's Eve

The message is simple; if you're drinking, you're not driving. RCMP are planning checkpoints across the province this evening targeting impaired drivers including those who are driving under the influence of drugs. Police say people should make plans to get home safe by finding a designated driver, call a cab, stay at a friend's house or take transit. Cpl. Scott MacRae says people can help them stop impaired driving.



MacRae says people should plan ahead and think before they drink.

Chester: Fay Loses In Semi-Final At Junior Curling Provincials

Chester's Mary Fay fell in a semifinal showdown this morning to end her run at the AMJ Campbell Provincial Junior Curling championships. Fay lost 11-4 to Mary Myketyn-Driscoll of Truro. Myketyn-Driscoll will battle Mayflower's Emily Dwyer in the title match at 2 o'clock at the Chester Curling Club.
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On the men's side, Stuart Thompson of Mayflower has successfully defended his Provincial crown. The Thompson crew punched their ticket to the Nationals in Fort McMurray, Alberta, by posting a perfect 7-0 record.

Lunenburg: ER Closing At Fishermen's Memorial

The Emergency Department at Fishermen's Memorial Hospital in Lunenburg is once again short on staff. The ER is closing at 4pm this afternoon and will reopen at 7:30am New Year's Day. Anyone requiring emergency services is advised to call 911 or visit the South Shore Regional Hospital in Bridgewater. Patients with non-emergencies should contact their family physician or call Health Link 811 for medical advice.

In Review: Bluenose II Relaunch Big Crowd Pleaser

In looking back at 2012, there were no events on the South Shore that drew the attention of so many people like the re-launch of the province's famous sailing ambassador. After a $16-million re-build lasting three years on the Lunenburg waterfront, Bluenose II was refloated in Lunenburg Harbour early on a dark, threatening morning in late September. If people couldn't be there in person, they watched on the internet just as they had been following the rebuild, day after day. According to the just-retired 33 year veteran of the mayor's office in Lunenburg, Laurence Mawhinney, the re-launch was a crowning moment in his long career.



This winter, Bluenose II is being re-outfitted with masts, sails and other fittings and being made ready to sail again in the spring of 2013. A date for that is yet to be announced.

In Review: Mawhinney Retires After 33 Years As Mayor

In looking back at 2012, the retirement of the venerable Laurence Mawhinney from the office of mayor in Lunenburg was one of the biggest local political changes of the year. The mayor had been in office in one of the province's most-historic towns for 33 years and he decided it was time to go. However, the lure of the old office can be hard to break.



Among his accomplishments, the former mayor says he takes pleasure in being part of the effort to have Lunenburg declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995. He's also happy with the apparent political stability he was able to foster in the town over all the years. However, Mawhinney says with his retirement and the retirements of at least two other mayors locally, it became obvious the electorate in last fall's municipal elections wanted change.



These days, former mayor Mawhinney and his wife Marion are continuing their team ministry at several Lunenburg and area Presbyterian churches with the past life at the mayor's office always not far away.

Two Men Charged In Chester Break & Enter

Two men have been charged in connection with a break, enter and theft from a home in the Chester area. It happened on Friday and RCMP investigators say various items were taken. The accused face several charges including break and enter, theft over $5,000., possession of property obtained by crime and numerous firearms offenses. The suspects are in custody and appear in court at a later date.

Storm Centre: Flights Delayed & Power Outages

A winter storm has knocked out power and is forcing airlines to adjust their flight schedule. The system - bringing snow, ice pellets and high wind - moved into the Yarmouth area just before midnight and worked its way up the coastline overnight. Environment Canada is predicting 20-30 centimetres of snow for the South Shore. Nova Scotia Power is working on an outage affecting 500 residents of the Argyle area. Crews have already restored a power outage in Shelburne, roughly 100 to 150 residents were without electricity for a four hours. Also, it looks like flights schedule will be a mess at the Halifax airport. A tweet from the Halifax Stanfield International Airport: Ice pellets, high winds and snow causing airlines to adjust flights schedules. Disruptions expected to continue through morning/early afternoon. Passengers should check their airlines web site or call ahead to find out the status of their flight. The bad weather is expected to continue through until Sunday night.

Latest forecast: 

Winter storm warning in effect. Lunenburg, Queens and Shelburne Counties

Today

Snow. Snow mixed with ice pellets this morning. Rain along the coast this morning. Snow and ice pellet amount 15 cm. Blowing snow. Winds gusting to 80 early this afternoon. High plus 1.

Tonight

Flurries ending after midnight then cloudy. Amount 2 cm. Blowing snow this evening and after midnight. Windy. Low minus 5.

Monday

Mainly cloudy. Clearing in the afternoon. Winds gusting to 80. High minus 4.

In Review: Big Decisions Ahead For Chester Council

The Warden in Chester says it was a solid year on numerous fronts for municipal council and staff. Allen Webber says council was able to push forward with it's large wind project in Kaizer Meadow, expected to be operational in 2013. The 2.3 megawatt wind project is expected to generate annual revenue exceeding 270-thousand dollars over the 20 year-life of the turbine. Webber says the municipality remains in good financial health with significant reserve funding as they head into the new year.



Chester council has a busy year ahead with public hearings and a decision expected on Minas Basin's South Canoe Wind Project. Webber says they will also have to decided whether to invest into the Chester-based collaborative health centre - called Our Health Centre.

Update: South Shore Curling Teams Cling To Life

Two South Shore teams remain alive, but both are down to their last life, at the AMJ Campbell Provincial Junior Curling championships in Chester. Racquel Bachman of Bridgewater and Mary Fay of the host club must win both of their games on Sunday to clinch a playoff spot. Defending champ Emily Dwyer of Mayflower and Truro's Mary Myketyn-Driscoll have already qualified for the playoffs. In the boys division defending champ Stuart Thompson of Mayflower leads the way with a perfect 4-0 record. Trevor Crouse of Bridgewater was eliminated yesterday. Draws are slated for 11, 4, & 9 today at the Chester Club. The winners will be crowned on Monday.  

Storm Centre: Heavy Snow, Ice Pellets & High Wind

Residents of the South Shore should gas up their snow blowers and get their shovels ready. Environment Canada has issued a winter storm warning for the region and most of mainland Nova Scotia. The latest forecast is predicting snowfall amounts totaling 30 centimetres over the weekend. The snow is expected to begin this evening and become more intense overnight. The weather agency is also calling for high winds, blowing snow and ice pellets along the coast. The bad weather will continue into tomorrow with snow, ice pellets and blizzard conditions anticipated. Conditions should begin to improve by Sunday night.

Chester: Mayflower Rink Leads Curling Championship

Mayflower's Emily Dwyer leads the way at the AMJ Campbell Provincial Junior Curling Championships at the Chester Club. Dwyer improved to 3-0 and grabbed the first playoff spot with a 9-6 win over Racquel Bachman of Bridgewater in last night's late draw. Bachman, at 2-1, is tied with Mary Fay of the host club. Those rinks go head to head this afternoon.  On the guys' side, Bridgewater's Trevor Crouse lost twice yesterday and will now have to win four in a row in order to make the playoff round. Mayflower's Stuart Thompson and Robert Mayhew of Wolfville share the lead with 2-0 records. Draws are set for today at 8am, noon, 4pm, and 8pm in Chester. 

Winners will advance to the Canadian Juniors in Fort McMurray, Alberta in early February.

In Review: Seahawks Football Soars

It was a magical year for local football on the South Shore. The inaugural season for Seahawks Minor Football was an overwhelming success for the players, coaches and parents who supported the team. It took roughly five years of hard work and $25,000 to get the program off the ground. Program co-founder Gary Linthorne says it was a proud moment when  more than 800 fans attended the Seahawks home opener in September. He says their season was filled with highlights.



The program will expand to include a Bantam league in 2013. Linthorne says the organization is also looking to buy a new scoreboard for the upcoming season.

Curling: Bridgewater's Bachman Leads At Junior Provincials

Bridgewater's Trevor Crouse is in search of his first win at the AMJ Campbell Junior curling provincials in Chester. Crouse lost his first match this morning 7-3 to Robert Mayhew. He's on the ice at 4pm against Nicholas Schroeder. Over on the women's side, Bridgewater's Raquel Bachman sits in a tie for first place after winning her second straight game. Bachman defeated Mary Myketyn-Driscoll 6-5 in extra ends today. She also defeated Chester's Mary Fay Thursday night. Fay got her first win today, a 9-4 decision over Hayley McCabe. She sits at 1-1. Tournament winners will represent the province at the "M & M Canadian Juniors" in Fort McMurray, Alberta in February. For all tournament information, click here .

In Review: Mayor: Positive Year For Bridgewater

The mayor of Bridgewater says 2012 was a positive year for the town. David Walker says an increase in population growth, a reduced commercial and residential tax rate, and more building construction adds up to a good year. Construction also began on the LCLC and the town started working with Mahone Bay and Municipality of Lunenburg on joint services. However, Walker considers the municipal election to be a significant moment for the town.



Walker says he's excited to work with council on concerning issues over the next four years.

In Review: Remembering Bowater

Looking back at 2012, we remember the Bowater Mersey paper mill in Brooklyn. After weathering slumping paper markets worldwide and the general economic downturn, the mill closed in June and hundreds of people suddenly found themselves without jobs. The closure stunned the region and the mayor of the District of Queens at the time, John Leefe, says the loss of Bowater was a dark time in all his 12 years in office.



A transition team was established to help people in Queens and Lunenburg counties cope with the loss of Bowater and recommend how to move forward.  Ron Smith headed the team.



The province has lately inked a deal with Bowater-owners Resolute Forest Products to take over the company's woodlands and the Brooklyn mill site. Nova Scotia Power purchased the power generating facility.  The Oakhill sawmill which provided wood chips and sawdust to Bowater was not part of the arrangement. Its now closed and the equipment is being dispersed to other Resolute operations in North America.

In Review: New School Board Elected

It was a fresh start for the local school board as seven new faces and one long-time member were elected in October. The new members took over the reins from Judith Sullivan-Corney, who was brought in by the education minister after the previous board was fired late in 2011. The local board endured a busy first eight weeks with some hot-button issues including financially settling with a former teacher and adjusting to their new roles. Chair Jennifer Naugler says she's pleased with how the board has reacted.



She says every day is a new challenge and expects 2013 to be busy with school review and budget time approaching quickly in the new year.

In Review: Fresh Start For White Point

From ashes to opening; it's been an emotional year for officials at White Point. The new main lodge reopened last month, just under a year after fire destroyed the historic building. The lodge features more windows for better views of the ocean, more open spaces, higher ceilings and a beachstone fireplace. General Manager Danny Morton says he's still getting used to the new property.



Morton says roughly 125 workers have been hired back since the new lodge opened. The total cost to rebuild is believed to be around $7-million.