Yarmouth MLA Not Surprised Over Ferry Struggles

The MLA for Yarmouth says he's disappointed a ferry service won't be up and running for at least another year in south-western Nova Scotia. Zach Churchill made the comments after a government-led committee rejected two proposals to resume a ferry service linking Yarmouth to Maine. The proposals were submitted in January by Quest Navigation of Eliot, Maine and Maritime Applied Physics, a Baltimore-based engineering firm. Churchill says he's not surprised it's proving difficult to re-start the service.



Economic Development Minister Percy Paris says the committee concluded neither bid met its criteria. He says the government will launch a new procurement process with the hopes of a 2014 start date.

Developers Behind South Canoe Wait For Decision

The developers behind a large scale wind farm in Lunenburg County say they understand municipal council in the area is faced with difficult decision. Two public hearings on the $200 million project lasted more than nine hours and drew a combined 300 people. Minas Basin Pulp and Power, Oxford Frozen Foods and Nova Scotia Power are proposing to construct 34 wind turbines between Vaughan and New Russell. Council in Chester deferred making a decision on whether or not to support the project for a second time last night. Project spokesperson Mary-Frances Lynch says they understand it's a sensitive issue.



Lynch says 100 jobs would be created during construction and five permanent positions when the project is online in late 2014. Chester Warden Allen Webber did not commit to a time-line for a decision.

South Canoe Wind Project Still In Limbo

Chester Municipal Council has deferred making a decision on whether or not to support the proposed South Canoe Wind Project. The second of two public hearings was held last night in Chester Basin with about 100 people attending. The five-hour session heard from residents of communities stretching between Vaughn and New Russell where 34 turbines would be constructed. Residents say the turbines would be too close to their homes. Minas Basin Pulp and Power, Oxford Frozen Foods and Nova Scotia Power are leading the project. Its lauded as being capable of generating enough power to heat 32,000 homes and inject $660,000 a year in tax revenue into the municipality. There's no word on when council might further consider the project.

Woman Charged After Boxer Dogs Allegedly Sold

Bridgewater Police have laid charges after a lengthy investigation involving the alleged sale of a pair of boxer dogs. The investigation began last month when a Saint John, New Brunswick woman placed an online ad looking for a dog sitter. A Nova Scotia woman responded to the ad and the dogs were sent to Halifax to be temporarily cared for. However, the rightful owner eventually lost contact with the person who accepted the dogs. After a three week investigation, police recovered the two boxers and they were returned. Gail Benoit has been charged with fraud, theft of under $5,000 and identity fraud. She is due to appear in Bridgewater Court on May 8th.

New Visitor Centre Remains On Track To Open In May

The new visitor information centre off Exit 11 in Blockhouse is nearing completion. CAO for the Municipality of Lunenburg, Tammy Wilson, says the project remains on track to open May 1. She says the centre is roughly 80 per cent complete, with some interior work still to be finalized. Wilson expects a parking lot to be created once the weather warms up. The municipality, along with the town of Bridgewater approved a joint venture to fund the new centre and will cost-share just over $23,000 for at least the first five years of a 10-year lease. A grand opening is tentatively planned for mid-May.

Health: More People Using Cancer Patient Navigator

The CEO for South Shore Health says increased awareness for people diagnosed with cancer is a good thing. Dr. Peter Vaughan was commenting on the fact that the authority's Cancer Patient Navigator has seen a jump in visits by over 30 per cent. The navigator supports cancer patients and their families by improving access and coordinating treatment, follow-up and support. Vaughan says he's pleased to hear more people are accessing the service.



He says its a great resource for people with cancer to get answers to questions and concerns. More information on South Shore Health's Cancer Patient Navigator can be found here .

Who's Scamming You?

A few days ago we told you Shelburne RCMP were investigating complaints of internet fraud. A phone scam is making the rounds in which a would-be victim is told by phone they've won a huge Publishers Clearing House prize. The victims are told to provide personal information and wire cash to a bank account in order to retrieve the 2.5 million dollar prize. Jill Atkinson of the Better Business Bureau says thats a new one to her but the BBB is looking into it. The Bureau has also released its list of top 10 scams making the rounds these days. Leading the way are phishing scams, like the one which involves the Better Business Bureau with a nasty twist to it. Atkinson tells us: "Scammers from, they believe eastern Europe, are using the BBB's name to send out fake emails to businesses that actually ask the business that they have a complaint and/or want information updated. Its not actually from us and we're very concerned because some of these scammers have attached viruses to the links." Other scams making the list are door-to-door sales, vacation scams, group coupon buying and disability tax reduction services. Here's the Top Ten List:

1. Phishing Scams.
2. Debt Settlement Services.
3. Computer Virus Fixing Scam.
4. Door-to-door Sales.
5. Vacation Scams.
6. Mystery Shopping.
7. Advertising Trolls.
8. Disability Tax Reduction Services.
9. Advance Fee Loans.
10. Group Coupon Buying.

Atkinson reminds consumers to check with the BBB before doing business with any firm.
She also gives the following advise:

Do not provide your credit card or bank account number to any unknown firm.
Do not open email attachments or click on links from any unknown person or company.
If you have won a prize, do not send money to the promoter for taxes or other fees.
Never agree to provide any upfront fee for a “guaranteed” loan.
Never agree to wire money back to a firm or individual if they have overpaid you for a good or service or have hired you to perform a mystery shop.
Limit what personal information that you put on social networking sites.
Always shred any unwanted documentation, unsolicited mail or credit card applications that contain personal information.
Carry only the identification that you need. Put other identification such as SIN, birth certificate and passport in a safe place.
Never let your debit card or credit card out of your site when conducting a transaction at point of sale.

South Canoe Wind Project: Part 2

The second half of a public hearing regarding a $200 million wind project will be held Monday in Chester Basin. Members of municipal council in Chester were forced to defer making a decision on whether or not to support the South Canoe Wind project nearly two weeks ago. The February 21 public hearing drew 150 people in attendance and lasted nearly four hours. The distance wind turbines would be constructed from homes is the major sticking point among area residents. The proposed wind project is being led by Minas Basin Pulp and Power, Oxford Frozen Foods and Nova Scotia Power. South Canoe would feature 34 turbines between Vaughan and New Russell. It would generate enough power to hear 32,000 homes and annually inject more than $650,000 into the municipality in tax revenue. The meeting begins at 7 o'clock and will be held at Forest Heights Community School.

Shelburne Mayor Hopes RCMP Back In Full Force This Spring

There is a shortage of RCMP officers to patrol the town of Shelburne and some residents fear the crime rate will jump as a result. However, Mayor Karen Mattatall doesn't think that will happen. She says: "It just happens to be a situation where four officers at the same time ended up having time off. Its probably quite unique. The issue seems to be Ottawa doesn't have a very good plan in place for when that happens." Mayor Mattattal says she and her council have received assurances from the RCMP their numbers will be back to the normal complement in the spring. There are usually ten officers available but that number's been cut in half by officers who have left the force or taken sick leave.

MODL: Group To Design Plan For MARC North

The Municipality of Lunenburg is entering into an agreement with the province's Off-road Riders Association to help develop MARC North in New Germany. Council has approved a proposal from the group to design a site plan, entry and parking lot for the property. The roughly 115 acres of land has been earmarked for recreational space since the fall of 2011. Deputy Mayor Don Zwicker says the municipality will help advise the group.



Zwicker says getting the off-road association involved was an opportunity council couldn't let slip away. He expects work to start this spring.

Review Hearings End, Board Faced With Tough Decisions

Now that the six school review public hearings are in the books, board members are faced with some tough decisions. The meetings wrapped up Thursday night at Hebbville Academy. Now, it's up to eight board members to crunch the facts and determine the future of schools in Mill Village, Pentz, Petite Riviere, Gold River-Western Shore, Hebbville and New Ross. Chair Jennifer Naugler says she heard lots of comments at the hearings that the board shouldn't close schools to help balance their budget.



The board is facing a $1.8-million cut for its 2013-14 budget. Members are planning to hold at least three more meetings before a decision on the six schools under review is made March 27.

Section of Highway 325 Closed Due To Vehicle Problems

Police along with officials from Tri-District Fire Rescue and the Departments of Transportation and Environment are currently on scene on Highway 325 near the Newcombville Irving where multiple vehicles are tied up. Staff Sgt. Bruce Hill of the Lunenburg County RCMP says two semi-trucks have jack-knifed and are stuck in the middle of the road while a fuel truck is in the ditch. The vehicle did have a minor spill of oil. No one is injured. Hill says tricky driving conditions led to the incident.



Hill says Highway 325 is closed from the Lapland Road to the intersection of Highway 210. He expects it will take a couple more hours before that section is re-open.

Shelburne County RCMP Seize Cash And Cigarettes

RCMP in Shelburne County have seized cash and contraband cigarettes in two separate incidents. Police searched a Barrington residence on Tuesday and seized over 7,000 contraband cigarettes and approximately $3,000 in cash. A 60-year-old man and a 45-year-old woman were arrested but released later that evening. During a separate investigation, a second search warrant was executed at a residence in Lower Clark's Harbour on Wednesday. Over 24,000 contraband cigarettes and approximately $3,000 in cash were seized. A 40-year-old man and woman were arrested at the residence and released later in the evening. All suspects involved are facing possession of contraband tobacco charges. They are scheduled to appear in Barrington Provincial Court April 11th.

Last Day For Feedback For Bridgewater Plan

Ekistics Planning and Design is reminding Bridgewater residents to provide their feedback for the future look of the town. Today is the final day for people to give their thoughts on the draft version of the Downtown and Waterfront Plan. Director of Planning, Jill Robertson, says they've received good feedback to date.



Ekistics will take the collected data and create a master plan to show town council members in April. To provide feedback, please click here .

Lower South Shore Gasoline Prices!

Gasoline prices have taken a drop over night. Regular self serve is selling today at South Shore pumps for $1.37.7 per litre. That iss about 3 cents less than yesterday. Diesel is also lower this morning by close to 4 cents.

MODL Extends Lease Agreement With School Group

A one-year lease is being extended to the South Shore Ventures Co-op. The group is behind the retrofit at the old Blockhouse School. They agreed to the lease last year with the Municipality of Lunenburg. Now, council is extending the lease until August 30. Deputy Mayor Don Zwicker says the group needs a bit of extra time.



The agreement has been extended to help the group complete necessary steps around an environmental approval, public hearing and development agreement.

Area Information Session Planned For April In Barrington

An event to help people learn more about what's happening in the Shelburne area has started planning for this year. The 'Our Community - Something for Everyone' initiative is in its eighth year of providing people with information on local organizations, agencies, programs and activities. Manager of Community and Economic Development for the town of Shelburne, Jerry Locke, says its an important event for community members.



Locke considers the event a trade show of sorts, which helps contribute to the quality of life in Shelburne County. The event is scheduled for April 20 at the Barrington Lions Hall.

Shelburne RCMP Issue Phone Scam Warning

Shelburne RCMP say they've responded to multiple fraud related complaints in the area. Investigators have determined a large scale phone scam is making the round across Canada. In this scam, a man claims he is from Publishers Clearing House and he is calling to say the person has won $2.5 million in sweepstakes. Police say the person uses the name Michael Bell. The man then tells would-be victims in order to claim the prize money, they either have to wire cash to a bank account or provide personal information. RCMP are asking those who receive these calls to hang up and contact your local police department.

Superintendent Leaving School Board For New Role

The head of the South Shore Regional School Board has accepted a position with the Department of Education. Nancy Pynch-Worthylake is leaving the role after spending six years as Superintendent of Schools. In a release, Pynch-Worthylake says the decision wasn't easy but adds she is looking forward to her new role. She will become the Senior Executive Director of Public Schools within the Department of Education. Pynch-Worthylake says students in the region will continue to be served by a strong senior team, effective regional support and amazing school-based staff. A transition plan will be developed for SSRSB leadership while a national recruitment search is conducted to fill the position.

Lunenburg: Council Pre-Approves Funds For Water/Sewer Project

Town council in Lunenburg has pre-approved funds to complete a large water and sewer project. The decision to commit just over $610,000 toward the last portion of the project was approved earlier this week. Work on the $1.2 million project began last fall with a large portion carried out on Bluenose Drive and Pelham Street. The project is being assisted by federal funding and will help increase water flows to assist with fire fighting in Old Town Lunenburg. Town Engineer Marc Belliveau says the project also involves splitting their storm and sanitary water lines. He says that will help with efficiently and keep costs down at the town's water treatment facility. Work will resume in the spring around Bluenose Academy.

Yarmouth Liberal MLA Will Seek Re-Election

The Liberal member of the Legislature for Yarmouth says there's absolutely no question, he will seek another term. Zach Churchill says he finds his role as the MLA rewarding and he wants to continue pushing for changes to education and health care. He says a major highlight of his first term was the public meeting in Yarmouth last summer during which 25-hundred residents stood-up to the Electoral Boundaries Commission. They unanimously rejected a proposal to split the Yarmouth constituency. Churchill was first elected in a June 2010 by-election in the Yarmouth riding. As a member of the opposition Liberals, he's served in the Legislature as their critic for the departments of Advanced Education and Labour, Tourism and the Youth Secretariat.

Gas Prices Will Likely Remain Unchanged

Be prepared for South Shore gasoline prices to probably remain the same or drop ever so slightly when the prices for the coming week are set tonight. The utility and review board will unveil prices at midnight. In New Brunswick, there's a small drop in the price there this morning. It's down half-a-cent. The new maximum price for regular self-serve is $1.36.7 a litre. However, it's not the only dip this week. Diesel is down in New Brunswick by 2.6 cents a litre, while furnace oil is down by 1.3 cents a litre.

Bantam 'AA' Ice Sharks Begin Mainland Tourney

The South Shore Ice Sharks Bantam 'AA' hockey club will host the Mainland League tournament beginning today in Liverpool. The tournament is held every year once the regular season wraps up to determine which teams qualify for provincials. The Ice Sharks are ranked #1 heading into the tourney. Head Coach Jody O'Donnell says its gut-check time for his team.



Ten teams are in the tourney including Pictou, Brookfield, Yarmouth, Truro and West Hants. The club plays their first game at 4:30 against Cumberland at Queens Place Emera Centre.

Three Car Crash In Chester Basin Sends Five To Hospital

RCMP say five people were sent to hospital following a three-vehicle collision Wednesday afternoon in Chester Basin. Police say the incident happened around 4:40pm along Highway 12 near the Lacey Mines Road. Cpl. Jamie Vacon, watch commander for Lunenburg County, says four people were taken to South Shore Regional Hospital while one other was transferred to Fishermen's Memorial in Lunenburg. He says all injuries are serious but non-life threatening. RCMP say the investigation continues and charges are pending.

North Queens Hopes For New Fire Hall

The North Queens Fire Association is campaigning for a new $1.5 million fire hall. Officials say the old one is worn out and they're seeking $700,000 from the Region of Queens toward a replacement. District council is weighing the request and will make a decision by late April. However, Mayor Christopher Clarke says it's a challenging time because the district is bringing in less tax revenue since the closure of the Bowater mill. He says they need to look at the numbers and a decision likely won't come until sometime in April. The Fire Association will also be requesting $200,000 from Annapolis County and the remaining $300,000 will be raised through community donations. The Association has already raised $300,000 on its own.

RCMP Identify Liverpool Paramedic Facing Drug Charges

A Liverpool paramedic is up for six charges for allegedly stealing and misusing drugs from an EHS station. RCMP say 47-year-old Kenneth Cosh is facing three counts of possession, breach of trust, theft under $5,000 and forgery. Officials from EHS alerted police of allegations of thefts and misuse of drugs by the man recently. RCMP searched a home earlier this month on Wolfe Street and seized syringes and medical containers. The man is scheduled to appear in Liverpool provincial court April 16.

Yarmouth Ferry Terminal Needs Overhaul Or Replacement: Mayor

The mayor of Yarmouth says the day the ferry service returns to her town will be a great event. Pam Mood says the loss of the service four years ago has devastated the region and its going to take a lot to repair the damage.



The International Ferry Partnership and local municipalities have kicked-in money to hire a promoter to spear-head upgrades to the Yarmouth ferry terminal. Federal dollars will be sought for the project. Meanwhile, a company in the United States says it has an agreement to lease a vessel and start a Yarmouth to Maine service beginning this summer if it is awarded a contract. Quest Navigation Inc. of Eliot, Maine is one of two companies proposing to operate the service between Maine and Nova Scotia. Quest officials say the vessel has 162 cabins, two restaurants and capacity for more than 1,200 passengers. The other company, Baltimore-based Maritime Applied Physics Corp., is an engineering firm that specializes in designing electro-mechanical systems for harsh environments. The ferry's former operator, Bay Ferries Limited, announced in December 2009 that it would cancel the money-losing service after the government said it could no longer provide an annual $6-million subsidy. The Nova Scotia government issued a request for proposals in December for an operator of the ferry service. A decision is expected in a few weeks.

South Shore Health Stands Up Against Bullying

Students, teachers and other local businesses are wearing pink today to take a stand against bullying. Among the groups recognizing the importance of today is South Shore Health. They have partnered with students from Bridgewater High, who have developed a video message in support of the movement. CEO Dr. Peter Vaughan says they're on board with creating change.



The video will be shown during a gathering at South Shore Regional Hospital this afternoon. Pink Shirt Day began in 2007 after two Nova Scotia teenagers encouraged others to wear pink t-shirts in support of a grade nine student who was being bullied for wearing pink.

Bridgewater Man Facing Drug Trafficking Charges

A 49-year-old Bridgewater man will appear in court in the spring on alleged drug trafficking charges. RCMP arrested the man Monday afternoon at a home on Pleasant Street. Police seized marihuana, cash, drug paraphernalia, and other offence-related property. The suspect is facing charges of possession of marihuana for the purpose of trafficking, and trafficking marihuana. He is scheduled to appear in Bridgewater Provincial Court May 15.

Consultations Set For 1.5 Million Acres Of Crown Land

The province will begin consultations in March on best use of 1.5 million acres of Crown land in Western Nova Scotia. Large parcels of the land up for discussion are located in Queens, Shelburne, Halifax Regional Municipality and Annapolis County. Lunenburg West MLA Gary Ramey says input will be used to help develop a land-use plan for the region. He says possible use could include mineral exploration, renewable energy projects and agricultural operations. Ramey says the government will also consult Mi'kmaq, municipalities and industry to help manage the Crown land and its natural resources. The former Bowater Mersey lands will also be included in the consultation process. No dates have been set for public meetings.

Group Home Receives Council Nod Of Approval

The CEO of the LaHave Manor Corporation says she's relieved with a decision by Bridgewater council to allow a group home to remain in a residential neighbourhood. Town council voted 4-2 in favour of keeping Compassion House at 6 Evergreen Road. A by-law change now defines the home as a single dwelling unit, not an institution and allows five people to live in the home, up from three. Joanne Wentzell agrees with council's decision.

"We are very pleased with the decision that council made last night. I think that after being presented with all the facts and the information, they made the right decision." 

There will now be a 14-day window for people to appeal. If it is appealed, the matter will go to the province's Utility and Review Board for final decision.

Hospital Staff, Patients Dealing With Flu-Like Symptoms

South Shore Health is reminding residents to protect themselves from the flu. The health authority says they currently have a handful of patients and staff with flu-like symptoms in the medical unit at South Shore Regional in Bridgewater. Infection Control Practitioner, Elizabeth Watson, says people are experiencing fever, headaches, sore throat and muscle aches. She says they have taken steps to limit the spread of illness.



Watson says some tips people should follow include washing hands often and covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze. She also says getting a flu shot can help prevent people from getting sick.

Parkview Girls Hockey Team Heads To Regional Playoffs

Its off to the Western Regional Girls Hockey Playoffs for teams in this part of the province. Among them, Bridgewater's Park View Lady Panthers team. Parkview finished in third place in regular season play in the nine team Valley Hockey League. The playoffs are taking place in Kingston in the valley and kick off today.

New Ross: Community Wants Its Grade 9's

The community of New Ross wants to keep their school in tact. The Grade 9 class at New Ross Consolidated School could be transferred to the nearby Forest Heights. It`s a proposal pitched under the school review process currently underway at six schools throughout the South Shore Regional School Board. Retired New Ross Consolidated teacher, Greg Jollymore says he`s hoping for the status quo.



Other concerns raised include the negative impact on finances, staffing and a thinning athletics program should Grade 9`s be moved out of New Ross. Members of the local school board are also reviewing various scenarios at Mill Village, Pentz, Petite Reviere, Hebbville Academy and Gold River-Western Shore. They make a decision on each school's proposed scenario in late March.

Glenn Anderson, Leafs Alumni Skate In Chester

A six-time Stanley Cup winner and member of the Hockey Hall of Fame will be in Chester tonight for the NHL Legends Maritime Tour. Glenn Anderson spent 16 seasons in the NHL, including almost three years with the Toronto Maple Leafs. He is among a number of Leafs Alumni playing tonight to help the local branch of the Navy League's 351 Llewellyn Sea Cadets. Anderson says he enjoys lacing up the skates with former professional players.



The 60-year-old notched 157 points while he was with Toronto from 1991-1994. Other players involved include Al Iafrate, Gary Leeman, Tiger Williams, Mike Krushelynski and Mark Osborne. The game gets underway at 7pm and some tickets will be available at the door.

'Curl For A Cause' Enjoys Its Best Year To Date

Over 100 people screamed ''hurry hard'' over the weekend at the 'Curl For A Cause' event at the Lunenburg Curling Club. The popular fundraiser by the Health Services Foundation of the South Shore helped raise $38,500. The money will go towards a specialized bathing tub for the Alternate Level of Care unit at Fishermen's Memorial Hospital. Managing Director, Arleen Stevens, says its important for the patients to have.



Money was raised by participant entry fee, an auction and sponsorships. Stevens says this was the best fundraiser they've had since the event started 13 years ago.

Habitat For Humanity Building Two Homes In Mahone Bay

The warm weather can't get here soon enough for the South Shore chapter of Habitat for Humanity. The group is in the final preparations to build two new homes off the Fauxburg Road in Mahone Bay. Two families have been selected through the application process. Board member Brent Kaulback says they will work together with the families to provide suitable homes.



Kaulback says they hope to begin construction when the frost is gone from the ground. Each family is required to put in 500 hours of labour or volunteer work towards the build. Once it is complete, they receive an interest-free mortgage that matches their income. Meanwhile, the group's vice-chair says they're close to acquiring land for another build in New Germany and are in the final stages of receiving a home in Liverpool.

Lunenburg West: Incumbent MLA Seeks Second Term

The incumbent MLA in Lunenburg West will seek a second term in the Nova Scotia Legislature. Gary Ramey was acclaimed as the candidate for the New Democrats during a nomination meeting over the weekend. Ramey was first elected in 2009. Prior to becoming an MLA, he taught high school, university and college for more than 30 years. The race in Lunenburg West will also feature former town councillor David Mitchell who will represent the Progressive Conservatives and retired RCMP officer Mark Furey who will carry the Liberal banner. Ramey accepted the nomination during a meeting on Sunday at Petite Riviere Fire Hall.

Fay Rink Wins N.S. Juvenile Women's Curling Crown

A Chester curling rink is preparing to make a trip to the rock. Mary Fay's team captured the provincial juvenile women's under-18 curling title this morning, defeating Mayflower's Emily Manuel 5-3 in the final. The Fay rink finished the event with a 4-1 record. The win means the local club will travel to Stephenville, Newfoundland for the Atlantic championships in late March. Complete results can be found here .

School Review Heads To New Ross Consolidated

Residents of New Ross will discuss the future of their community school tonight. A public hearing will be held this evening as part of the review process. New Ross Consolidated isnt up for closure, but moving Grade 9 students to Forest Heights Community School. NRCS has 132 students enrolled at the Primary to Grade 9 school. The meeting will be held at the school beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Ice Sharks & Parkview Boys Weekend Hockey Winners

Both the bantam AA Ice Sharks and Park View Education Center boys won games over the weekend.  The Sharks won the Summerside McCain's Bantam AA tournament. They outscored the competition 22-0 in three, round-robin games before their wins against Chebucto 3-0 in the semi finals and Strait Richmond 3-1 in the finals. Meanwhile, Park View boys beat Horton 9-2. Fabian Sund and Wesley Demone each had 2 goals. Jake Wile was the winning goal tender. The Panthers are in first place in the Valley High School Hockey League.

"Hurricanes" Heading To Major Bantam Provincials

The BMO Western Hurricanes are going to the Major Bantam Provincials in Cape Breton in March. Over the weekend, they defeated Pro Hockey Life Cole Harbour Storm in home and home games. Saturday, the Hurricanes defeated the Storm, 6-3 with Jered Scott scoring two goals and Jaron Bollivar, Jacob Myra ,Matthew Barron and Keith Getson scoring singles. Sunday, the Hurricanes defeated the Storm in Liverpool 8-1. Travis Parks had a hat trick, Keith Getson had two goals and  Jacob Myra, Logan Walters and Jaron Bollivar scored singles.

Another Record For Athlete, Chelsea Whalen

Chelsea Whalen of Liverpool had a new personal best and set a new Nova Scotia provincial senior womens shotput record over the weekend. She placed 3rd and won bronze at the ACC Indoor Track and Field Championships in Blacksburg, Virginia. Whalen's throw of 15.75 meters erased her previous mark of 15.57 meters which she set earlier this year.

Chester: Council Will Take Time On South Canoe

The Warden in Chester says council will take its time before making a decision whether or not to support the South Canoe Wind Project. More than 150 people attended last week's public hearing on the proposed wind farm. Allen Webber says they will need a second public hearing to deal with the matter. He says it's going to be a tough decision.



The proponents behind the project want to construct 34 wind turbines between Vaughan and New Russell. The next public hearing in March will be held at Forest Heights Community School in Chester Basin.

MODL To Review Off-Leash Dog Park Idea

A Lunenburg group is looking to partner with municipal council in finding an area for an off-leash dog park. The local residents are requesting help in acquiring land, because they feel a dog park could be a great addition to the community. Mayor Don Downe says they're looking at their options. But, he adds, he's not sure if there's a demand in the municipality.



Downe says there's also the issues of liability and insurance to think about as well. The matter was sent to committee for review.

Bridgewater: Long Awaited Health Clinic Announced

It's a long awaited announcement for those in need of a family doctor in the Bridgewater area. Details surrounding a new 9,000 square foot collaborative health clinic were unveiled during an afternoon press conference just down the street from the South Shore's regional hospital. The new clinic will be an addition to the Medical Arts Building on Glen Allen Drive. Mayor David Walker called it's a huge step forward for residents of Lunenburg County. The clinic will be home to eight family doctors, two nurse practitioners in addition to various other health services. Meanwhile, South Shore Health's Janet Simm says the authority has already begun recruitment efforts. She says they've already spoke to at least a dozen doctors about the possibility of working in Bridgewater. LaHave Investments Limited was chosen among seven other bidders to construct the clinic. Lunenbueg West MLA Gary Ramey says it's hoped the clinic will be open in November or December.

Anchor Bracelets To Help Remember "The Lost Five"

It's an idea that started in the small community of Sambro and has taken off across the South Shore. Anchor bracelets will soon be available for the public to purchase to help honour the five missing fishermen of the 'Miss Ally'. The bracelets are being shipped from China and proceeds will go to the fishermen's families. Janine Dixon is from Woods Harbour. She says the bracelets are a way to remember.



Dixon expects the first 1,000 bracelets to reach the community within the next few weeks. She says the bracelets are expected to be available in Woods Harbour, Barrington and Liverpool. Dixon says families will decide what to do with the proceeds. She says, starting Monday, people can also donate money to the 'Five Boys Bracelets' account at CIBC in Barrington.

Search Continues For Capsized Fishing Boat & Her Crew

A military aircraft is heading out today to resume searching for any signs of a fishing boat that capsized last Sunday night about 120 kilometers southeast of Liverpool. Its five crewmen were lost. The coast guard vessel Sir William Alexander is also steaming towards the area where debris was spotted yesterday. Fishing vessels are also making their way towards the area. Families of the fishermen have asked federal authorities to attempt to recover the hull of the vessel and bring the bodies of the fishermen home after the search was called off Tuesday night.

Two Men Found After Search In Queens County Woods

A search for two men yesterday afternoon near Liverpool was successful in finding them. The two went for a walk in the woods and somehow lost their way. Queens County Ground Search and Rescue launched an operation and the two were found last evening off the Purdy Road, north of Liverpool. The men are said to be OK but shaken by their experience. They didn't need any medical help.

Gasoline Prices Top The $1.40 Mark!

As expected, South Shore gasoline prices increased overnight. The province's utility and review board has set the price at the pumps for regular self-serve at $1.40.9 a litre. Thats an increase of almost 3 cents from yesterday. Diesel is also up a bit at $1.44.1 per litre. These fluctuations in price are a reflection of whats happening with the world price of oil. For instance today, oil is up this in price after two days of steep losses. Oil gained 40-cents this morning, and is trading at $93.24 U-S a barrel. Traders say gains are being kept in check by ample supplies and worries about the global economic outlook.