Bridgewater's Nowe Wins Golf Tournament In Pugwash

Bridgewater's Ryan Nowe opened up his competitive golf season on a winning note. The 17-year-old won by two shots over the weekend at the Nike Golf Junior Series tournament at Northumberland Links Golf Club in Pugwash. He took top spot in the boys 15-19-year-old division. Nowe followed up an opening round even-par 72, with a seven-over-par 79 to beat 26 other golfers from across the province and New Brunswick.

McIntosh Finishes 7th At Panamerican Combined Events Cup

Bridgewater's Rachael McIntosh finished in seventh place at the Panamerican Combined Events Cup in Ottawa, Ontario over the weekend. The 22-year-old racked up just over 5,300 points in the women's heptathlon event, over 600 points behind first place. McIntosh's top result was a second place finish in the 800 metre run. She was second among Canadians in the heptathlon behind Jennifer Cotten. McIntosh will now prepare for the Canadian Track and Field Championships, being held in Moncton, New Brunswick from June 20-23.

SiRT Investigating Weekend Police Chase

The province's Serious Incident Response Team is investigating after a wild string of events including a high speed police chase on Sunday. The incident began when police received a report of a domestic dispute yesterday morning at a home near Lunenburg. Police were then able to track the man down near Queens County. SiRT Director Ron MacDonald says a high speed police chase occurred on Highway 103 before the man crashed his vehicle near Granite Village in Shelburne County. The man was rushed to the QE2 hospital in Halifax with serious injuries.  He remains in stable condition. Anyone who may have witnessed the incident is asked to call SiRT at 1-855-450-2010.

Park View Wins Provincial Track And Field Banners

Park View athletes put on quite a show this weekend at the Nova Scotia School Athletic Federation's provincial track and field championships. The Panthers won both the senior and intermediate divisions during the meet at Beazley Field in Dartmouth. Park View topped the senior division with 276 points over Cobequid Education Centre with 249 and Central Kings with 112.5 points. In the intermediate division, Park View had 236 points while Cobequid was second with 131 and Dr. John Hugh Gillis placed third with 102 points. Hebbville Academy was the top South Shore school in the junior division, placing fourth overall with 99 points behind Central Halifax, Bible Hill and Maple Grove Education Centre. Overall, the Park View track and field team captured six provincial banners and earned the honor of top high school program in the province. Full South Shore results are available below.

Girls 100 Meter Dash Junior Girls
3rd Shelby Trask - Bayview
4th Emily Haley - Chester Area Middle School

Girls 200 Meter Dash Junior Girls
2nd Emily Haley - Chester Area Middle School
4th Shelby Trask - Bayview

Girls 400 Meter Dash Junior Girls
6th Jessica Clarke - Hebbville Academy
7th Shelby Trask - Bayview

Girls 800 Meter Run Junior Girls
4th Kayla Collicutt - Hebbville Academy
8th Hannah Wilkie Bridgewater Junior-Senior
12th Myra Campbell - Bayview
14th Mia Gyorifi - Bayview

Girls 1500 Meter Run Junior Girls
12th Jessica Clarke - Hebbville Academy

Girls 3000 Meter Run Junior Girls
9th Jessica Clarke - Hebbville Academy
10th Emily Lepine - Bayview
12th Mia Gyorifi - Bayview
DNF Myra Campbell - Bayview

Girls 80 Meter Hurdles 30" Junior Girls
2nd MacKenzie Sinclair - Hebbville Academy
5th Rebecca Campbell - Bayview
7th Carlee Mulrooney - Chester Area Middle School

Girls 4x100 Meter Relay Junior Girls
4th Hebbville Academy 'A'
11th Bluenose Academy 'A'

Girls 4x400 Meter Relay Junior Girls
10th Bluenose Academy 'A'
14th Bayview 'B'

Girls High Jump Junior Girls
3rd Megan Rogers - Hebbville Academy
4th Shelby Trask - Bayview

Girls Long Jump Junior Girls
6th Shelby Penney - Hebbville Academy
7th MacKenzie Sinclair - Hebbville Academy

Girls Triple Jump Junior Girls
6th MacKenzie Sinclair - Hebbville Academy

Girls Shot Put 3kg Junior Girls
4th Selena O'Quinn - Bayview
6th Mattie Smith - Barrington
9th Breanna Butts - Bayview
11th Rowan Currie - Bayview
16th Taylor Dunn - Bayview

Girls Discus Throw 1kg Junior Girls
4th Micahla Taylor - Bridgewater Junior-Senior
11th Sydney Smith - Barrington

Girls Javelin Throw 600g Junior Girls
5th Olivia Cooper - Hebbville Academy
10th Caroline Mulrooney - Chester Area Middle School
11th Eva Mosher - Bluenose Academy
15th Rebecca Macneil - Bayview

Girls 100 Meter Dash Intermediate Girls
6th Leah Wagner - Park View
8th Lizzy Baker - Liverpool Regional

Girls 200 Meter Dash Intermediate Girls
2nd Leah Wagner - Park View
6th Lizzy Baker - Liverpool Regional

Girls 400 Meter Dash Intermediate Girls
1st Leah Wagner - Park View
6th Allison Chandler - Chester Area Middle School

Girls 800 Meter Run Intermediate Girls
5th Rachelle Siteman - Park View

Girls 1500 Meter Run Intermediate Girls
8th Rachelle Siteman - Park View

Girls 3000 Meter Run Intermediate Girls
12th Jenny Miller - Bayview
13th Sarah Leblanc - Park View

Girls 80 Meter Hurdles 33" Intermediate Girls
1st Micaela Sabean - Bridgewater Junior-Senior

Girls 4x100 Meter Relay Intermediate Girls
6th Barrington Municipal 'A'

Girls 4x400 Meter Relay Intermediate Girls
3rd Park View Education Centre 'A'

Girls High Jump Intermediate Girls
5th Micaela Sabean - Bridgewater Junior-Senior
7th Peyton DeWolfe - Park View

Girls Pole Vault Intermediate Girls
1st Anneka Hennefeit - Bayview
2nd Abby Forsyth - Park View
4th Kaileigh Skinner - Park View

Girls Long Jump Intermediate Girls
8th Bailey Selig - Liverpool Regional
9th Lizzy Baker - Liverpool Regional

Girls Triple Jump Intermediate Girls
9th Bailey Selig - Liverpool Regional
10th Chloe Conklin - Bridgewater Junior-Senior

Girls Shot Put 4kg Intermediate Girls
2nd Allison Chandler - Chester Area Middle School
10th Jesscia Latham - Lockport Regional

Girls Javelin Throw 600g Intermediate Girls
1st Allison Chandler - Chester Area Middle School
5th Kelsey Bond - Bridgewater Junior-Senior
7th Jesscia Latham - Lockport Regional

Girls 100 Meter Dash Senior Girls
5th Courtney Langille - Bridgewater Junior-Senior
6th Allie Flower - Park View

Girls 200 Meter Dash Senior Girls
2nd Courtney Langille - Bridgewater Junior-Senior
6th  Allie Flower - Park View

Girls 400 Meter Dash Senior Girls
6th Allie Flower - Park View
7th Courtney Langille - Bridgewater Junior-Senior

Girls 800 Meter Run Senior Girls
8th Sarah Taylor - Park View

Girls 1500 Meter Run Senior Girls
5th Sarah Taylor - Park View
13th Rachael Weagle - Park View

Girls 3000 Meter Run Senior Girls
4th Sarah Taylor - Park View
13th Becky Levy - Forest Heights

Girls 80 Meter Hurdles 33" Senior Girls
3rd Jamie Mulrooney - Park View

Girls 4x100 Meter Relay Senior Girls
3rd Park View Education Centre 'A'

Girls 4x400 Meter Relay Senior Girls
4th Park View Education Centre 'A'
10th Barrington Municipal 'A'

Girls High Jump Senior Girls
7th Leah Rudderham - Park View
13th Diana Huskins - Barrington

Girls Pole Vault Senior Girls
1st Mallory Taylor - Park View
3rd Brooke Hynes - Park View

Girls Long Jump Senior Girls
8th Tara-Lee Banks - Barrington
10th Allie Flower - Park View
11th Sarah Mitton - Liverpool Regional

Girls Triple Jump Senior Girls
4th Leah Bell - Park View
9th Savanah Beniot - Park View

Girls Shot Put 4kg Senior Girls
3rd Sarah Mitton - Liverpool Regional
6th Mallory Taylor - Park View
9th Maegan Cameron - Lockport Regional
10th Caitlin Foote - Park View

Girls Discus Throw 1kg Senior Girls
5th Caitlin Foote - Park View
6th Mallory Taylor - Park View
9th Maegan Cameron - Lockport Regional

Girls Javelin Throw 600g Senior Girls
4th Brooke Hynes - Park View
6th Mallory Taylor - Park View
7th Caitlin Foote - Park View
9th Maegan Cameron - Lockport Regional

Girls 100 Meter Dash Special JR Special Junior
4th Nikita Penney - Barrington
6th Emma Mason - Bayview
9th Mackenzie Colp - South Queens

Girls Long Jump Special JR Special Junior
1st Emma Mason - Bayview
2nd Nikita Penney - Barrington
6th Mackenzie Colp - South Queens

Girls Shot Put Special JR Special Junior
1st Emma Mason - Bayview
5th Nikita Penney - Barrington
10th Mackenzie Colp - South Queens

Girls 100 Meter Dash Special SR Special Senior
11th Natalie Barron - Yarmouth Con.

Boys 200 Meter Dash Junior Boys
6th Zackary Swinimer - New Ross Con.

Boys 800 Meter Run Junior Boys
10th Tyler Gillis - Bayview
12th Noah Dunn - Bayview

Boys 1500 Meter Run Junior Boys
14th Olan Spears - Bayview
16th Tyler Gillis - Bayview

Boys 3000 Meter Run Junior Boys
10th Olan Spears - Bayview
14th Matthew MacDonald - Bayview

Boys 4x100 Meter Relay Junior Boys
11th Barrington Municipal 'A'
12th Bayview Educational Cente 'A'
13th Hebbville Academy 'A'

Boys 4x400 Meter Relay Junior Boys
11th Hebbville Academy 'A'

Boys High Jump Junior Boys
1st Callum Robataille - Hebbville Academy
8th Drew Jacklin - Shelburne Regional
9th Dylan Meisner - Hebbville Academy
11th Abe Chidiac - Shelburne Regional

Boys Long Jump Junior Boys
7th Dylan Meisner - Hebbville Academy
9th Bailey Bent - Shelburne Regional
12th James Walker - Bayview

Boys Triple Jump Junior Boys
10th Dylan Meisner - Hebbville Academy
11th Matthew Sabean - Bridgewater Junior-Senior

Boys Shot Put 4kg Junior Boys
3rd Jonathan Oickle - New Germany
7th Hunter Young - New Germany
14th James Walker - Bayview

Boys Discus Throw 1kg Junior Boys
1st Josh Bell - Hebbville Academy
12th Keenan Gillis - Bayview

Boys Javelin Throw 600g Junior Boys
6th Drew Jacklin - Shelburne Regional
8th Bailey Bent - Shelburne Regional

Boys 100 Meter Dash Intermediate Boys
2nd James Lucas - Park View
3rd Sam Julien - Park View

Boys 200 Meter Dash Intermediate Boys
1st Sam Julien - Park View

Boys 400 Meter Dash Intermediate Boys
1st James Lucas - Park View
3rd Evan Pugh Bridgewater Junior-Senior

Boys 800 Meter Run Intermediate Boys
1st Tobias Wolter - Park View
9th Aidan O'Brien - Hebbville Academy

Boys 1500 Meter Run Intermediate Boys
1st Tobias Wolter - Park View
10th Ethan Reashore - Barrington
11th Aidan O'Brien - Hebbville Academy
12th Ozzie Damiani - Park View

Boys 3000 Meter Run Intermediate Boys
1st Tobias Wolter - Park View
9th Ethan Reashore - Barrington

Boys 100 Meter Hurdles 36" Intermediate Boys
8th Sam Julien - Park View

Boys 4x100 Meter Relay Intermediate Boys
1st Park View Education Centre 'A'
7th Bridgewater Jr./Sr. High 'A'
12th Yarmouth Consolidated Memorial 'A'

Boys 4x400 Meter Relay Intermediate Boys
1st Park View Education Centre 'A'
9th Bridgewater Jr./Sr. High 'A'
12th Hebbville Academy 'A'

Boys Long Jump Intermediate Boys
1st James Lucas - Park View

Boys Triple Jump Intermediate Boys
6th Jack Creaser - Park View
7th Chris Grey - Yarmouth Con.
8th Matheus Einhardt - Park View

Boys Shot Put 5kg Intermediate Boys
9th Steven Kromko - Park View
13th Matheus Einhardt - Park View

Boys Discus Throw 1.5kg Intermediate Boys
6th Steven Kromko - Park View

Boys Javelin Throw 700g Intermediate Boys
1st Logan Cleveland - Park View
5th Tobias Wolter - Park View
9th Austin Dolliver-Bower - Shelburne Regional

Boys 100 Meter Dash Senior Boys
7th Caleb Barry - New Germany
8th Luke Young - Forest Heights

Boys 200 Meter Dash Senior Boys
5th Logan Huskilson - Park View
6th Lucas Wile - Park View

Boys 400 Meter Dash Senior Boys
3rd Lucas Wile - Park View

Boys 800 Meter Run Senior Boys
6th Riley Oickle - Park View
8th Ben Conrad Bridgewater Junior-Senior
10th Cal DeWolfe - Park View

Boys 1500 Meter Run Senior Boys
3rd Cal DeWolfe - Park View
11th Gavin Hatheway - Park View
12th Liam Patterson Bridgewater Junior-Senior

Boys 3000 Meter Run Senior Boys
2nd Cal DeWolfe - Park View
5th Gavin Hatheway - Park View
6th Liam Patterson Bridgewater Junior-Senior

Boys 100 Meter Hurdles 39" Senior Boys
3rd Logan Huskilson - Park View
4th Ben Conrad Bridgewater Junior-Senior

Boys 4x100 Meter Relay Senior Boys
2nd Park View Education Centre 'A'
7th Barrington Municipal 'A'
8th Forest Heights 'A'

Boys 4x400 Meter Relay Senior Boys
4th Park View Education Centre 'A'
7th Barrington Municipal 'A'

Boys High Jump Senior Boys
1st Jake Langille - Park View
6th Jonah Comeau - Bridgewater Junior-Senior

Boys Long Jump Senior Boys
1st Nigel Getson - Park View
2nd Caleb Barry - New Germany
12th Logan Huskilson - Park View

Boys Triple Jump Senior Boys
4th Jonah Comeau - Bridgewater Junior-Senior
5th Nigel Getson - Park View
10th Trevor Crouse - Bridgewater Junior-Senior
11th Brad Savage - Bridgewater Junior-Senior

Boys Shot Put 6kg Senior Boys
3rd Luke Young - Forest Heights
4th Fletch Selig - Park View

Boys Discus Throw 1.75kg Senior Boys
4th Fletch Selig - Park View

Boys Javelin Throw 800g Senior Boys
3rd Riley Leblanc - Yarmouth Con.
6th Paul Manzer - Bridgewater Junior-Senior

Boys 100 Meter Dash Special JR Special Junior
6th Ben Hannaford - Chester Area Middle

Boys Long Jump Special JR Special Junior
10th Devon Schnare Chester Area Middle School

Boys Shot Put Special JR Special Junior
9th James Jewers Chester Area Middle School
12th Devon Schnare Chester Area Middle School

Another Stunting Charge Laid In Bridgewater

It's another stunting charge against a driver in Bridgewater. Town police wrote up their second stunting ticket in as many days on Friday night. They say a Pontiac Grand AM was clocked going 120 in 50 zone on King Street. The vehicle was stopped shortly after 10 o'clock. The driver's license was immediately suspended. On Thursday, a motorcycle was seen going 128 in a 50 zone on High Street. Stunting can be defined as traveling more than 50 km/h over the posted speed limit.  It carries an automatic fine of $2,400 and six points off your license.

MODL Searching For Economic Development Officer

The mayor of the Municipality of Lunenburg says its a position he hopes will help drive the local economy. A senior economic development officer position was approved in the municipality's budget last week. The role is being funded at $100,000 a year for two years through a grant from the province. Mayor Don Downe says they're looking for someone with a proven track record.



Downe says the provincial government agreed to help the municipality following the shutdown of the Oakhill Sawmill,  resulting in the loss of about 1,000 jobs indirectly. He adds, the province has provided the funding and expects someone to be hired in the next few months.

Black Edges Martin, Duckworth For Sport Award

Two South Shore athletes fell short of winning a Ricoh Sport Award in Halifax this weekend. Bridgewater's Jenna Martin and Kingsburg's Alex Duckworth were runner-up to Halifax's Ellie Black for female individual athlete of the year. Black was the first female gymnast from Nova Scotia to go to the Olympics when she competed in last summer's London Games. Meanwhile, several other South Shore representatives received awards from their respective organizations. Chester's Jacob Chaplin-Saunders was part of the provincial yachting association's team of the year while Jordan Marczak of Chester Basin is Alpine Ski NS coach of the year. Mahone Bay's Tom Ward was given Cross Country Ski Nova Scotia's official of the year and Shelburne's Guy Tipton won the NS Yachting Association's volunteer of the year award. West LaHave's Gary Linthorne was also the recipient of volunteer of the year from Football Nova Scotia. The awards are presented by Sport Nova Scotia.

Updated: Highway 103 Re-Opens After Fatal Crash

Highway 103 has re-opened following a two vehicle crash between exits 9 and 10 early this morning heading towards Halifax. The highway was closed roughly six hours after an 18-wheeler collided with a honda civic around 7:45am. RCMP Sgt. Alain LeBlanc says  the driver of the Honda was pronounced dead at the scene while the driver of the tractor trailer was treated by EHS and released. Police are investigating the incident.

Michelin Junior Bike Event Rolls Into Bridgewater

Look out for bicycles, tricycles and training wheels this weekend in Bridgewater. The Michelin Junior Bike event rolls into town Saturday at Empire Theatres. The event promotes bicycle and helmet safety for young riders. Almost 300 kids are expected to participate and learn safe practices. The event will be held rain or shine from 10am until noon.

Riverport Pub Stalls As Developer Backs Out

The future of a pub and marina in Riverport is up in the air. Local resident Peter Knowles is behind the development and recently announced on facebook that he "cannot continue with the Heron Pub." He continued by saying "Fundraising efforts have been terribly disappointing, unable to secure more than a couple of founders to support the pub and my own resources are now tapped out." The Riverport area advisory committee supported the idea during a recent meeting. Knowles added in the post "I would like to offer the project to the community in the hope that some individual or group have the means to take this great community anchor to fruition." A phone call to Knowles has not been returned.

Stunting Charge Laid In Bridgewater

Bridgewater police have laid a stunting charge after a motorcycle was spotted going nearly 80 km/hr over the speed limit in the downtown area. Police say they clocked the bike going 128 km/hr in a 50 zone on High Street. The driver and female passenger were stopped this morning on Victoria Road. If convicted, the charge carries a fine of nearly $2,400. The motorcycle was seized and the driver is due in court in August.

Emergency Department Closures At Lunenburg Hospital

There will be a pair of closures in the emergency department at Fishermen's Memorial Hospital in Lunenburg this weekend. The first closure will be in effect starting at 6pm Friday evening until 7:30 Saturday morning. The emergency department will also close Saturday evening at 6pm and re-open Sunday morning at 7:30. 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.

Emergency Officials Locate Missing Man In Shelburne County

A 55-year-old Dartmouth man is safe after he got lost in the woods in Shelburne County. RCMP say the man was last seen by family members on Ensor's Road in Welshtown Thursday afternoon before he unexpectedly fled into the woods. Police along with Barrington Ground Search and Rescue and officials with the Shelburne Fire Department found the man in the area around 9pm Thursday night. RCMP say the man was in fair condition. He was examined by EHS before he was transported to hospital.

ALS Walk Held In Western Shore

People will gather in Western Shore this weekend in hopes of raising awareness and money for ALS. The fourth annual ALS walk gets underway at 10am Saturday at the community's fire hall. Registration will be held at 9am. One of the coordinators, David Moore, says the funds raised will be split into different areas.




ALS is a neuromuscular disease that causes motor nerve cells to die and voluntary muscles to degenerate. Those living with the disease become progressively paralyzed, eventually unable to breathe or swallow. Moore says they're hoping to raise $20,000 during this year's event.

South Shore Students Win At Canadian Science Fair

Four students from schools within the South Shore Regional School Board district have returned from the Canada-Wide Science Fair in Lethbridge, Alberta. They brought home some impressive experiences and awards to show for it. Being recognized for their science projects are Erin Smith and Jessica Vaszily of Bayview Community School, Sierra Oakes of Bridgewater Junior-Senior High and Malcolm Mann of Bluenose Academy. The South Shore Regional School Board has been taking part in the Canada-Wide Science Fair since 1999. South Shore students have won a total of $67,878.00 in prize money as well as many awards and medals.
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These were the projects of the 4 South Shore winners at the Canada-Wide Science Fair:
Erin Smith from Bayview Community School in Mahone Bay titled her project, “Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!” This project looked at the possibility of using melting snow to produce clean energy to offset the average household winter heating costs.
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Sierra Oakes from Bridgewater Junior-Senior High School looked at creating energy by using different natural oils combined with water. Her project, “Opposites make a powerful difference,” used a variety of oils to create energy by rising above the water and hitting a propeller. Sierra was presented with an excellence award, bronze medal and a bronze medal from Western University.
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“Poison-Us Puckers,” the project by Bayview Community School Student Jessica Vaszily looked at lead content in lipstick. Her project examined the presence of lead in lipstick, and if the amount is related to the level of shine and sparkle.
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Malcolm Mann of Bluenose Academy in Lunenburg investigated whether adding tubercles, the small bumps on the leading edge of humpback whale fins which improve their mobility, on sailboat folds could improve the lift and increase the stall angle of the foil. Malcolm received three different awards, including two silver medals in excellence from Western University, as well as the Carlson Wagonlit Award.

South Shore Gas Prices Down Some

Gas prices along the South Shore are down a bit today (Friday). The utility and review board dropped the price overnight by almost two cents a litre. Regular self serve is selling for $1.29.1 per litre. High test is down also by a similar amount to $1.38.1. Diesel is selling for $1.28.5 per litre, down some as well.

Local Pastor Named New Chaplain For Bridgewater Police Service

The Bridgewater Police Service is turning to a local pastor to be their new chaplain. Reverend Paul Jensen of St. Paul's Lutheran Church has been named to the position. He was recognized during a reception earlier this week. Jensen says he looks forward to helping police.




Jensen is also expected to assist in police duties from time to time.

Wind Farm Opponents Present Case To Utility Board

A regulatory hearing is underway in relation to a large wind farm near New Ross. Eight days have been set aside for the hearing before the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board. Fifteen witnesses will be called to present evidence in relation to wind energy. The Friends of South Canoe Lake claim Chester council didn't have enough information on wind power before approving the project. Three developers want to construct 34 turbines stretching between Vaughan and New Ross. Chester council approved the $200 million wind farm in March.

Town Approves Grants To Organizations Policy

The town of Bridgewater has approved a new policy dealing with grants to organizations. The policy is needed to help provide guidelines for awarding money to non-profit organizations or societies that apply to the town for financial assistance. Deputy Mayor Bill McInnis says its council's intent to contact groups who have been applying since 2008.



Under the policy, there is now criteria for determining eligible applicants, separate grant categories and a process for reviewing and shortlisting applications.

Taylor Named To Canadian Sevens For University Games

A Bridgewater native has been named to the Canadian rugby sevens team for this summer's World University Games. Matt Taylor goes to school at the Royal Military College of Canada. He's listed as a centre on the school's team roster. Taylor is the lone Nova Scotian on the squad, which was announced on Tuesday. The Canadian rugby sevens team will make its debut at the World University Games July 14-17 in Kazan, Russia.

Public Input Sought In Yarmouth Arson Investigation

The RCMP in Yarmouth is hoping the public will help in their investigation of two recent suspicious fires. Late in the evening on April 11th, a fire in an apartment building on Forbes Street in the town was put out by a tenant before the fire department arrived. Then, late in the evening on April 29th, RCMP were again called to the same Forbes Street location after the Yarmouth Fire Department responded to another blaze which they again labelled suspicious. Both fires are being investigated and the RCMP hopes the public will help them locate a suspect or suspects. If you have any information regarding these crimes, please contact the Yarmouth Town RCMP at 902-742-8777 or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

Data Released On Hand Hygiene, C. Difficile At South Shore Health

The public can now access statistics on how often health workers clean their hands and patients get ill from the hospital-acquired C. difficile. The province's Health and Wellness Minister announced the new public reports during an announcement Wednesday at the regional hospital in Bridgewater. The reports indicate South Shore Health has the top hand-washing practices in the province for the first three months of this year. The health authority has an 87 per cent hand-washing rate before patient contact and a 92 per cent mark afterwards. President and CEO, Dr. Peter Vaughan, says they need to continue working towards their goal of 100 per cent.



South Shore Health is also above the provincial average of C. difficile for the same time period. The data says five people out of 10,000 patients contracted the bacteria, while the province averages about three. The Nova Scotia government passed law in May 2012 called the Patient Safety Act that requires hospitals to collect information called Patient Safety Indicators and report results to Department of Health and Wellness and the public. The findings can be found on the department's website.

Regulatory Hearing For Wind Farm Begins

A hearing before the province's regulatory board regarding a large wind farm begins today in New Ross. The Friends of South Canoe Lake are leading an appeal with the Nova Scotia Utilities and Review Board on the $200 million South Canoe Wind Project. They claim the development will lower their property value and cause health issues. The organization is appealing Chester council's decision to enter into a development agreement with the proponents of the wind farm. Councillors voted 6-1 on March 14 to approve the project after a pair of exhaustive public hearings. Minas Basin Pulp and Power, Oxford Frozen Foods and Nova Scotia Power are leading the project. If it moves ahead, it would generate enough power to heat 32,000 homes.

Gail Benoit's Case Delayed Again In Bridgewater

A notorious dog broker failed to appear in Bridgewater court this afternoon. Gail Benoit was scheduled to enter pleas on charges of fraud, theft and identity fraud. The charges are related to the alleged illegal sale of two boxer dogs. Crown Lawyer Lloyd Tancock told court he wants to change Benoit's release conditions which currently prohibit her from selling dogs. However, Tancock would not reveal the new conditions. He says the accused needs to be present in order to make the changes. The matter has been put over until June 19th.

Exterior Upgrades Improve Forties Community Centre

The exterior of the Forties Community Centre in New Ross has been spruced up with the help of the federal and provincial government. The facility has new siding, insulation and gutters after receiving $28,000 from Ottawa and $10,000 from the province. The Municipality of Chester also chipped-in with $8,000 and the centre itself raised $15,000 to complete the renovations. The total cost was around $61,000. In a release, board of directors chair Phillip Broome says the upgrades give a new face to a facility that enhances the lives of people in the region. The Forties Community Centre hosts a variety of events including dinners, crib tournaments and craft fairs.

Power Outage Reported In Gold River-Western Shore Area

Nova Scotia Power is reporting an outage in Gold River, Western Shore and surrounding communities as of 12:30 this afternoon. The utility says the outage is due to planned maintenance in the area. It is affecting roughly 280 residents. NSP expects power to be restored by 3:45pm.

Funding Declined For "Our Health Centre" Project

Chester council has decided to pump the breaks on a funding request for a $6 million dollar collaborative emergency centre for the municipality. Warden Allen Webber says council will not provide funding for the "Our Health Centre" project in this fiscal year. However, he says they could revisit the idea down the road.



The municipality was forced to raise their residential tax rate to help boost revenues and are already involved in a number of significant capital projects. Members of "Our Health Centre" had asked council for one million dollars to help with construction.

Tax Rates Remain Status Quo In MODL

The mayor of the Municipality of Lunenburg calls it a budget with no surprises and continues to pay down the debt. Council agreed to hold the line on residential and commercial tax rates. The residential remains at $0.81 cents per 100 of assessment while the commercial rate stays at $1.95 per 100 of assessment. The residential rate stayed the same for the fourth year in a row while the commercial decreased by $0.10 cents last year. Don Downe says its a responsible budget.



The 2013-14 operating budget will be $28.3 million while the capital budget is $4.4 million. Capital projects for this year includes over $900,000 in sewer infrastructure and $200,000 to implement an active transportation plan. The municipality's CAO feels the budget meets their needs and sets the course for years to come.

Crews Working To Fix Water Line Break On North Street

A significant water main break on North Street in Bridgewater is causing some traffic issues today. A water line busted near the EHS base last night. Crews with the town's public works department are on scene. They have found the break and are working to correct the problem. The area has been reduced to a single lane. Motorists should expect some minor delays on North Street while the area is cleaned up.

Province Providing Funds To Bridgewater Curling Club

It's some much needed funding for the Bridgewater Curling Club. The Nova Scotia Government is expected to provide significant funding to help the club with repairs. The curling rink has been looking to replace its aging ice making and refrigeration system. The club also needs to overhaul its sprinkler system. The Bridgewater rink needs about $225,000 in total repairs. An official announcement is expected to take place next week.

Injuries Result From Queens County Accident

A man and woman were sent to hospital yesterday afternoon with non-life-threatening injuries following a single vehicle roll-over in Queens County. The accident happened mid-afternoon along Highway 8 near Greenfield. The injured woman was trapped in her car until she could be rescued by emergency crews. The highway was closed for a couple of hours and traffic re-routed. Queens RCMP continue their investigation.

Spts-New Germany Jr. Girls Are Regional Champs!

The New Germany Rural High School junior girls softball team are Regional Champions! They defeated Par-en-Bas yesterday (Tuesday) 12-1 then went on to defeat Annapolis Royal 15-3 in the championship game. The girls were undefeated through the entire season. Their win adds to the successful year of both junior and senior girls squads at the school. Monday, the seniors won their regional softball championship, defeating North Queens in the final.

UPDATED: Traffic Now Moving On Highway 8

Emergency officials were called to single vehicle rollover near Milton this afternoon. The crash occurred shortly after 3 o'clock. It's not known how it happened or if there are any injuries. Police say a section of Highway 8 was closed for a short period just north of Milton.

VIDEO: Mooseheads Celebrate Historic Year

The Halifax Mooseheads were greeted to thousands of fans as they left the Metro Centre today in the wake of their historic President Cup and Memorial Cup victories. Players and coaches arrived home yesterday evening in time for a celebratory event Tuesday at noon in Halifax's Grand Parade near City Hall. Some players got on stage answered questions and thanked fans including Nathan MacKinnon, Stephen MacAuley, Zachary Fucale and co-captain Trey Lewis. It will be a short turnaround for MacKinnon, Fucale and Jonathan Drouin as they will head to Toronto for the NHL Scouting Combine, which include team interviews and a rigorous fitness test. Below is video of the parade portion of today's event.

VIDEO: Local Olympian Nominated For RICOH Sports Award

 Bridgewater's Jenna Martin has been nominated for a prestigious award which recognizes Nova Scotia's greatest athletes, coaches and teams. Martin is up for a RICOH  Sports Awards in the Individual Female Athlete of the Year category. She'll be up against fellow Olympian Ellie Black and Alex Duckworth of Kingsburg. Martin made her first appearance at the Olympics games in London last summer. The 25 year-old was solid in her Olympic debut and qualified for the semi-finals in the 400 metre event. The awards will be presented during a ceremony in Halifax on June 1st.

What Road Is The Worst In The Region?

South Shore residents have just three days left after today to vote for what they believe is the worst road in the region. Its the Canadian Automobile Association's annual Worst Roads campaign. Spokesman Gary Howard tells us there are no prizes; just recognition for that bumpy, irritating road you love to hate.



Since voting began May 1st, the Forties Road in New Ross has bumped its way up the scale from 4th to 2nd place and is close to knocking-off the current worst road in Atlantic Canada, the Cape John Road in River John. Highway 203 near Yarmouth is now 5th overall, up from 7th in early May. You can vote for your worst road at www.atlantic.caa.ca/worstroads.

 

Bridgewater Town Council Mulls Room Tax

The deputy mayor of Bridgewater is continuing his push for a room tax to be initiated in the town. Bill McInnis is behind the idea because he feels a small two-dollar tax on a 40% occupancy rate could generate roughly $60,000. McInnis says the issue would not be on residents, but it would charge guests and the money raised would be put back into the community to promote tourism. He says it's not a new idea.



Bridgewater council has sent the matter back to staff for a report and recommendation. The issue could be back on the agenda for a meeting in June.

Chester: Council Approves Budget/New Tax Rates

Residents in the Municipality of Chester will pay more in taxes in 2013-14. Council approved its $22.4-million operating budget - agreeing to raise the residential tax rate by two cents to 66 cents per 100 of assessment. The move was needed to help balance the budget. The reasons for the increase includes reserves being diminished by just over $1.1-million for projects like a wind turbine, eco-park and Mill Cove Water Utility. As well, expenditures increased by nearly $500,000. This year's operating budget is an increase of nearly $3-million. Meanwhile, businesses are getting better news with a one cent decrease, with the new commercial tax rate at $1.53 per 100 of assessment. The operating budget is listed at $22.4-million while the capital budget is $12.1-million.

Spts-New Germany Girls Softball Team Wins Regional Championship! Juniors Might Be Next!

The New Germany Rural High School senior girls softball team has captured the Division-3 Regional championship. They defeated Par-en-Bas, Drumlin Heights and Forest Heights Monday in round-robin play, defeated Shelburne in the cross-over and then beat North Queens in the championship game. The N-G junior girls will now to try to follow in the senior's footsteps as they host their Regional softball tournament today (Tuesday). The first game is at 12:30pm..

Rick Hansen Book Comes To South Shore Schools

The story of Rick Hansen's 43,000-kilometre world tour is coming to South Shore elementary schools. Roll On: Rick Hansen Wheels Around the World was recently released across the province. In 1985, the Canadian began the Man in Motion World Tour, a two-year journey in his wheelchair that raised awareness of what people with disabilities can do. Communications Manager Trish Smith says the book can help students and others in schools.



The book is expected to be available in roughly 10 South Shore schools. During Hansen's 34-country tour, $26-million was raised for spinal cord research, rehabilitation and wheelchair sports.

Bailey "On Top Of The World" With Memorial Cup Win

Lunenburg's Brennan Bailey says he didn't get any sleep following the Mooseheads thrilling 6-4 win over Portland in the Memorial Cup final. Following the win, Bailey suited up and joined his teammates on the ice in Saskatoon for his chance to lift the top trophy in junior hockey. The-19-year-old didn't get a chance to play during the event, but still enjoyed the ride. He says he's on top of the world.



Bailey says it's been a great experience to be a part of and shared it with his parents by phone following the win. He says the trophy was easy to lift, adding it was lighter than it looked. The Mooseheads return to Halifax Monday evening and Bailey expects to be back in Lunenburg this weekend.

Roseway Spring Fling A Success

The auxiliary at Roseway Hospital in Shelburne is reporting a very successful "Spring Fling" over the weekend. Auxiliary President Barb Henderson-Townsend says the public response was good, despite the wet weather, and thousands of dollars was realized.



More than four thousand dollars was the result. It will go toward the $20,000. the auxiliary is trying to raise toward improvements to the Roseway ER.

No Injuries After House Fire In New Ross

No injuries after a weekend house fire in New Ross. The blaze was reported around 6:30 on Saturday evening. New Ross Fire Chief Lyle Russell says crews worked quickly to contain the fire which began in the bathroom area and spread to the attic. No one was currently living at the home. Russell says it was a rental property which was under renovations. Fire officials believe the blaze was sparked by a soldering gun. The home suffered moderate damage.

Track And Field: South Shore Athletes Make Their Mark

It was quite the weekend of track and field for some South Shore athletes. Locally, James Lucas representing Park View at the NSSAF High School Track and Field Western Regionals won six gold medals. Lucas took gold in the 100 metre, 200 metre, 400 metre, 4 x 100 metre, 4 x 400 metre and long jump in the intermediate boys division. Other multiple gold medal winners include Nigel Getson, Tobias Wolter and Cal Dewolfe of Park View and Jonah Comeau of Bridgewater High. A number of South Shore athletes qualified for provincials, being held later this week at Beazley Field in Dartmouth. Meanwhile across the border, Mattias Wolter of Conquerall Mills qualified for the NCAA Division-1 track and field championships. The product of the University of Louisville won the men's 3,000-metre steeplechase during a meet in North Carolina. Wolter will head to Oregon for the championships June 5-8.

Group Bringing Outdoor Movies To Bridgewater

A small group of volunteers in Bridgewater are bringing movies outdoors. The group, known as Fresh Air Films, will begin showing movies at the end of next month at Shipyards Landing along the LaHave River. One of the organizers, Janice Tanner Ernst, says people can walk up and watch the movie, or paddle up to the site and watch from a kayak or boat. Tanner Ernst says there's been great support from the community.



She says people are encouraged to make donations because it costs between $400-$500 to rent equipment and show each movie. Tanner Ernst says they plan on playing family films to help encourage both kids and adults to come out and watch. A volunteer drive will be held soon for people looking to help out or people can email the group if they're interested at bridgewaterfreshairfilms@gmail.com . The first film will be the original Karate Kid on June 28.

Spts-Mooseheads Win The Big One

The Halifax Mooseheads have won the Memorial Cup for the first time. The herd overpowered the Portland Winterhawks 6-4 last night in winning the trophy. Nathan MacKinnon scored a hat trick while Konrad Abeltshauser scored twice for the Mooseheads. Zachary Fucale stopped 40 shots in goal.
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Nathan MacKinnon has padded his resume ahead of next month's NHL draft.  The 17-year-old scored a hat trick and had two assists last night in the championship game. MacKinnon was also named tournament MVP.  He's expected to be a top-three pick when NHL teams convene in Newark, New Jersey.

Spts-Whalen Qualifies For NCAA Championships

Chelsea Whalen of Liverpool led the charge over the weekend for the Florida State Seminoles in Greensboro, North Carolina. She ended up qualifying for the U.S. National Championships in both the javelin and the shot-put. Whalen qualified sixth overall in the East in the javelin with a new personal-best throw of 49.40 meters. She followed that up in the shot-put as the No. 5 qualifier in the East with a throw of 16.26m. Whalen is now heading to the NCAA Division-1 Championships in Eugene, Oregon June 5-8.

Wind Farm Regulatory Hearing Begins Thursday

A community group will voice their concerns before the provinces regulatory board during a hearing set to begin Thursday. The Friends of South Canoe Lake are opposed to a massive wind farm near New Ross. The group is challenging Chester council’s decision to enter into a development agreement with the three proponents behind the $200 million wind farm. Minas Basin Pulp and Power, Oxford Frozen Foods and Nova Scotia Power want to build 34 turbines stretching between Vaughan and New Ross. The board begins two days of hearings on the project May 30 in New Ross.

Arrests, Charges After Wild Incident In Chester Basin

Two men are facing charges following a break-in at a gas station in Chester Basin. The incident was reported early Friday morning at the Petro Canada. Authorities say when they arrived, they noticed the window to the garage door was smashed. Officers later found a 30 year old man inside the store who was being held by the person who reported the burglary. The alleged thief was seriously injured and was transported to hospital in Halifax. In a media release, Mounties say the suspect remains in serious condition. The Western Shore man is facing charges of break and enter, mischief and impaired driving. Meanwhile, a 51 year old man of Chester Basin has been charged with aggravated assault and assault with a weapon. Police say he was the man who called in the attempted robbery. He's been released and is due in court on July 3rd.

Tourism Strategy Focus' To Attract New Visitors

The province is working with tourism operators to attract more first time visitors to Nova Scotia. Economic and Rural Development and Tourism Minister Graham Steele says the new five-year strategy helps to encourage tourists to make Nova Scotia their first choice and stop. The Nova Scotia Tourism Agency has already started to implement many aspects of the long-term strategy, such as a new tourism brand and marketing campaign.

The long-term tourism strategy focuses on five areas:

-- leadership and collaboration between government and industry

-- inspirational, strategic marketing that creates a unique and compelling brand

-- evidence-based decisions after consulting with visitors and potential visitors

-- higher-quality product and experiences that inspire visitors to travel throughout the province.

-- better access to Nova Scotia, and throughout the province