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October 2 2024
EVERY CHILD MATTERS: Four-year-old Brody was one of the many people of all ages who took part in a walk to mark Orange Shirt Day and the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (Sept. 30) on Monday in Sheet Harbour. Before starting the noon-time trek, youngsters had the chance to decorate RCMP cruisers with painted handprints to mark the occasion. See more photos of the event in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Janice Christie
GCIFA wants fewer sites considered for offshore wind
CANSO — Concerned about the effects of massive turbine installations and operations on or near commercial fishing grounds, the Guysborough County Inshore Fisherman’s Association (GCIFA) wants two of the six sites being considered for offshore wind (OSW) farms in Nova Scotia removed from the list of potential future development areas (PFDAs).
St. Mary’s transit service to launch Oct. 15
SHERBROOKE — The St. Mary’s Association for Rural Transit (SMART-GO) began taking bookings on Oct. 1 in the lead-up to the start of the passenger service on Wednesday, Oct. 15.
Lots of questions at open houses on offshore wind
GUYSBOROUGH/CANSO — Residents gathered at two public meetings in the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) last week; not just to hear, but to discuss, how offshore wind could soon affect the way they live and work.
September 25 2024
SEAMEN'S STORIES: King Lion Barry Lumsden, Lion Rob Murphy and Gordon Roberts stain the frame that now houses historic panels recently added to the Seamen's Memorial site in Canso. After several months of consultation between the Canso Lions Club, Canso Historical Society and Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) public works department, the additions are now on display at the monument. See more in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Ray White
Shiretown renewal project attracts high interest
GUYSBOROUGH — An atmosphere of cheerful industry permeated the Chedabucto Lifestyle Complex on Sept. 17 as a higher-than-expected number of residents gathered to participate in the first open house of the Shiretown/waterfront revitalization project.
Guysborough pharmacy to become community primary care clinic
GUYSBOROUGH — Guysborough PharmaChoice on Main St. here is one of 20 new community pharmacy primary care clinics that will soon be established across Nova Scotia.
Sherbrooke Volunteer Fire Dept. seeks to purchase new pumper truck
SHERBROOKE — The Sherbrooke and Area Volunteer Fire Department (SVFD) has made a request for $250,000 from the Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s to help with the purchase of a new pumper truck.
September 18 2024
TEAM SIMPLY BLUE: Members of Irish renewables firm, Simply Blue Group, show their enthusiasm at the announcement of the company’s green fuels megaproject in Goldboro Sept. 15. Construction could start on the multi-billion-dollar initiative as soon as 2026. Once fully operational in 2029, it could employ hundreds of local workers, Simply Blue officials said. Pictured in the photo with other staff members are CEO Hugh Kelly (left) and COO Michael Galvin (second from right).
Photo Credit: Hilary Hendsbee
Acclamations dominate in MODG, Mulgrave
MULGRAVE/MODG — What if we held an election and nobody ran? It’s a question that’s been on Ron Chisholm’s mind over the past few days. Mulgrave’s incumbent mayor has been acclaimed to hold office for another four years and he says, that while he’s grateful to serve, he’s also, well, “perplexed.”
Simply Blue launches renewable energy project in Goldboro
GOLDBORO — Construction could begin on a multi-billion-dollar energy park in this coastal community to produce sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from locally sourced wind, solar and biomass as early as 2026, say senior officials of Irish renewables company Simply Blue Group.
Old-Fashioned Christmas cancelled
SHERBROOKE — Organizers of Sherbrooke Village Old-Fashioned Christmas have a called a halt to the popular holiday tradition this year, blaming “shifting community demographics and volunteer burnout” for the decision.
September 11 2024
CAR SHOW SHINES: Danny Clifton from Antigonish took first place with his eight-cylinder, three-speed 1930 Dodge Brothers Coupe in the antique and classic car show staged Sept. 8 at the St. Mary’s District Lions Club property in Sherbrooke. The revamped event is a smaller version of the long-time Sherbrooke Show and Shine held annually at neighbouring Sherbrooke Village. Full story and more photos in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Joanne Jordan
Simply Blue to announce major renewable fuels project
GOLDBORO — Irish renewable fuels company Simply Blue Group will announce long-awaited details of a planned renewable fuels project at its launch event next week in Goldboro.
RCMP apology ‘welcome, overdue and necessary,’ says Desmond
GUYSBOROUGH — One of Nova Scotia’s prominent black elders and Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) Councillor Mary Desmond is calling the RCMP’s long-awaited apology to African Nova Scotians and Nova Scotians of African descent for its use of street checks and other harmful interactions “welcome, overdue and necessary.”
New schoolhouse for École Belle-Baie to open this month
LARRY’S RIVER — The new building hosting Guysborough County’s first French language school, in the Acadian enclave of Larry’s River, will be open for classes before the end of the month, the provincial government confirmed in an email to The Journal.
September 4 2024
OLD-TIME COUNTRY FAIR: Potter Alyssa Hiltz (left) and interpreter Marty MacDonald enjoy the tin can alley game, hosted and created by Madison Howard and Karen MacDonald, during the harvest festival country fair at Sherbrooke Village Aug. 31. More photos in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Angelina Jack
New schoolhouse rises for École Belle-Baie
LARRY’S RIVER — Less than one year after launching in a common room provided by the community centre in Larry’s River, Guysborough County’s first French-language school will soon have a modern, new building.
Rural cost of living mixed blessing
GUYSBOROUGH — In a province where the gap between the minimum wage paid and the minimum wage actually needed to survive independently is growing, many people can still get the best bang for their hard-earned bucks by living in rural enclaves like Guysborough County.
Sherbrooke Village’s interactive ghost tours kick off
SHERBROOKE — The world of interactive theatre is coming here.
August 28 2024
MILESTONE MOMENT: Taya Lucas-Desmond (centre) is the inaugural recipient of the Tory-Bagnall and MacDonald Bursary awarded by Acadia University in Wolfville. The fourth-year environmental science student received the honour during a celebration at the Old Court House Museum in Guysborough Aug. 23. The founders of the award have deep ties not only to the Annapolis Valley school, but also Guysborough County and the Guysborough Historical Society, where Lucas-Desmond worked as a summer student for three years. The Sunnyville native shared the special moment with family members, friends and community representatives, including Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) Councillor Mary Desmond (left), MODG Councillor Paul Long, Guysborough Historical Society (GHS) Curator Mary Armstrong, GHS executive member Don Armstrong, Guysborough-Tracadie MLA Greg Morrow and GHS President Chris Cook. Full story in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Contributed
St Barbara pauses plans for Cochrane Hill gold mine
COCHRANE HILL — A plan for an open pit gold mine near Cochrane Hill in the Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s is effectively on hold until there’s “a fair and efficient process” from the provincial government, according to the head of Perth, Australia-based mineral exploration and extraction company St Barbara Limited.
Free school supplies program expands to all SRCE schools
GUYSBOROUGH — For the second straight year, Chedabucto Education Centre/Guysborough Academy (CECGA) will provide free school supplies – including pencils, crayons, and scribblers – to all of its students for the upcoming academic calendar.
Sherbrooke Village to host old-time country fair
SHERBROOKE — The annual Sherbrooke Village Harvest Celebration, which is set for Aug. 31 and Sept. 1, will feature a new twist.
August 21 2024
GOLDEN MOMENT: The annual MacPherson Lake sports meet – a well-attended gathering that celebrates competition and community – took centre stage Aug. 11. Here, the first-place finishers gathered for a championship photo during the Guysborough and Area Fish and Game Association event. See more coverage of the event in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Contributed
MODG launches ‘opportunity readiness’ program
GUYSBOROUGH — With new economic opportunities multiplying in the area, the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) is embarking on a new “opportunity readiness program” to help communities make the most of their advantages, says Warden Vernon Pitts.
EverWind to create community-led ‘vibrancy’ fund
GUYSBOROUGH — EverWind Fuels is committing potentially millions of dollars to a new fund that will serve the development goals of individual communities in the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG), company and municipal officials said last week.
Sherbrooke Village artisans help keep ‘lost trades’ alive
SHERBROOKE — During the Industrial Revolution in the late 18th century, technological advancements and changes led to the use of machinery for the mass production of many products that were once created by hand. Specialty trades, including wood turning, blacksmithing, printing, weaving and ambrotype photography became hobbies rather than livelihoods. However, there are still places that strive to keep them alive.
August 14 2024
HOMEMADE VICTORY: Theresa Yzerman (left) and Suzette Cameron, in their colourful cardboard vessel, captured first place in the adult boat race held during St. Mary’s River Days at Sherbrooke Village Aug. 10. Amelia Jordan took top spot in the children’s division, while Chase Fraser and Fraser MacDonald were the first to cross the finish line in the youth division. See more from the annual community celebration in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Angelina Jack
Restoring another great river in Guysborough County
NEW HARBOUR — When visitors think of Guysborough County’s most prominent rivers, the St. Mary’s in the Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s invariably comes to mind. And, why not? This – the longest fresh waterway in Nova Scotia – is storied for its famous anglers, like baseball great Babe Ruth, who once cast a line in its fast runs and deep pools.
Determination of Country Harbour residents leads to repaving of Old Country Harbour Rd.
COUNTRY HARBOUR — It may have taken a year, but Old Country Harbour Rd. has been repaved due to a determined effort of concerned residents here.
Residents continue to raise concerns around Archibald Brook Bridge
SHERBROOKE — Residents here continue to express concerns about safety and accessibility of the bridge at Archibald Brook.
August 7 2024
UPLIFTING SOUND AND SONG: African drummers Jada Desmond (left) and Tamika Gero opened the fourth annual Emancipation Day event on the Guysborough waterfront Aug. 1. The Black national anthem, Lift Every Voice, was sung by Kenyatta Boake, with support from the large crowd in attendance. See more photos from the event in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Helen Murphy
Major cell service expansion announced for Guysborough County
GUYSBOROUGH — Nine new or upgraded cell towers will significantly improve connectivity for residents and first responders in underserved communities of Guysborough and St. Mary’s municipalities by 2026, according to the provincial departments of Public Works and Service Nova Scotia, and Build Nova Scotia (BNS).
Landmark agreement could light fuse under Maritime Launch
CANSO — Thanks to a landmark agreement between Canada and the U.S., the founder of this country’s lone prospective commercial spaceport thinks he’s looking at a new lease on life for his company’s 333-acre site in the Canso area, which has yet to launch a single satellite into the wild blue yonder, despite nearly a decade of prepping.
Uplifting gathering marks Emancipation Day in Guysborough
GUYSBOROUGH — A crowd of 150 gathered to hear messages of remembrance, solidarity and respect under sunny skies on the Guysborough waterfront, August 1, as Emancipation Day celebrations marked the 190th anniversary of the abolition of slavery in Nova Scotia and across the British Empire in 1834.
July 31 2024
STANFEST HOME TEAM: Stories were told and gratitude was aplenty for the performers affectionately described as the ‘home team’ of the Stan Rogers Folk Festival in Canso this past weekend. They’re a small group of popular regulars at the annual songwriters’ event since its beginning in 2017, including Pictou County singer/songwriter Dave Gunning (left) and J.P. Cormier, pictured here on stage Friday night. On Thursday, a large crowd came out to pay tribute to another ‘home team’ member, the late Bruce Guthro. Memories were also shared that night of Ron Hines, another popular Stanfest stalwart until his passing in 2015. See more from Stanfest 2024 in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Helen Murphy
Pieridae sells Goldboro property for $12 million
GOLDBORO — Less than one year after declaring its intention to sell its 267-acre plot in the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG’s) Goldboro Industrial Park, liquefied natural gas (LNG) company Pieridae Energy Limited of Calgary announced last week that it has struck a deal with an unnamed party for a “cash consideration” worth $12 million.
Healthcare homes for Guysborough quicken pace to opening
GUYSBOROUGH — It’s full speed ahead for the Housing Trust of Nova Scotia (HTNS), as the work to get eight townhouse-style homes at Cutler’s Brook Estates in Guysborough up and ready to rent is now running ahead of schedule, says the non-profit organization’s executive director.
Downtown Guysborough revitalization planning underway
GUYSBOROUGH — With the selection of community planner Fathom Studio, the “shiretown” of Guysborough’s first, comprehensive downtown makeover is officially underway.
The Journal marks 30 years
GUYSBOROUGH — The team behind the Guysborough Journal has often felt that this paper is the new kid on the block, but that’s hard to say now that The Journal is marking its 30th anniversary this summer. We also don’t have as many newspaper neighbours as we did when our first issue hit newsstands in June, 1994, due to the increasing challenges facing newspapers these days.
July 24 2024
COLOUR CLOUD: The colours of the rainbow were in the air and on runners and walkers in Guysborough Sunday morning (July 21) for the Come Home Week colour run. Here, Ethan Grady, 7, emerges from the first colour station at the start of the Shoreline Trail. In the popular family event, supported by MODG summer recreation staff, participants choose a 2k or 5k route, starting from the Guysborough waterfront.
Photo Credit: Helen Murphy
Increased online extortion flagged in local RCMP stats
GUYSBOROUGH — Despite living in some of Nova Scotia’s safest communities, residents of Guysborough County are reporting a “higher than normal” number of online extortions, harassments and threats, says local RCMP District Commander Sgt. Natasha Farrell.
Police urge public to identify dangerous ATV drivers
GUYSBOROUGH — When reckoning with rowdy all-terrain vehicle (ATV) riders on Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) roads, it’s best to play it by the book: If you know who they are, tell the police.
DNRR re-opens outhouse on Hwy. 7
SHERBROOKE — The Department of Natural Resources and Renewables (DNRR) has re-opened one of two outhouses located along Hwy. 7 in response to the frustration and disappointment expressed by residents regarding their indefinite closure, as reported by The Journal last week.
July 17 2024
THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES: Interpreters from Historic Sherbrooke Village recently launched an outreach program, one that includes weekly visits to the High-Crest Sherbrooke Home for Special Care. They wear period costumes for the interactions, which include a variety of activities with residents. Here, High-Crest Recreation Director Courtney Mailman (left) listens as resident Billy Cameron recalls his childhood chore of polishing the brass on the horse bridle to interpreter Terri MacDonald during a recent gathering. Full story in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Angie Jack
Growing concern over reckless ATV use in MODG
GUYSBOROUGH — Free-wheeling four-wheel vehicle use in parts of the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) made it to the agenda at the committee of the whole (COW) meeting July 3, as councillors pondered how to crack down on increasing incidents of dangerous driving.
MODG to offer up to $200,000 for community infrastructure projects
GUYSBOROUGH — To better manage its investments in local initiatives, the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) plans to introduce a new $200,000 community infrastructure fund for major projects, effective next year.
Coastline monitoring project begins along Eastern Shore
LITTLE DOVER — A new initiative to monitor coastline erosion along the Eastern Shore with the help of residents is in full swing.
July 10 2024
LIFE-SAVING INITIATIVE: As part of a Sheet Harbour Chamber of Commerce and Civic Affairs initiative, through Emergency Health Services, three automated external defibrillators (AEDs) have been installed in the Sheet Harbour area, including at the East Coast Credit Union branch. Staff members at Beverly Murphy-Lowe (left), Aja Shipperley, Cheryl Rivers and Brandi Haley send hand signals of healthy hearts out to the community after installing the AED in their lobby. Full story in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Contributed
All aboard for Stan Rogers Roadshow
CANSO — “There’s no train to Guysborough, or so the man said, so it might be a great place to be.”
New group brings fisheries heritage centre closer to reality
CANSO — With a registered name, non-profit status and formal board of directors, the group behind Canso’s proposed fisheries heritage centre has passed a major marker on its course to bring an important new addition to the historical landscape of this coastal community.
New ferry begins regular service to Grassy Island historic site
CANSO — After a three-year hiatus, and with the sun not yet over the yard arm of the summer tourist season, regular ferry service to the iconic Grassy Island Fort National Historic Site will resume this week, say officials with Parks Canada and the Canso Historical Society.
July 3 2024
CELEBRATING THE CLASS OF 2024: Guysborough Academy graduates continued the long-held tradition of tossing their caps in the air — symbolizing the end of their high school years — at the close of their graduation ceremony on June 26. Grade 12 students across the region, including SAERC, Canso Academy and St. Mary’s Academy, also marked the milestone last week with celebrations. See more memories of those festivities in the pages of this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Contributed
Irish company plans to produce ‘sustainable aviation fuel’ on Eastern Shore
DUNDEE — While the proposed site of its “renewal energy park” planned for the Eastern Shore remains a secret for now, Simply Blue Group outlined its plans to produce “sustainable aviation fuel” and bio-methanol here at the annual gathering of business and government leaders at Strait of Canso Superport Days in Dundee on June 27.
Grads remember classmate Aaliyah Desmond
GUYSBOROUGH — On the back cover of this year’s Guysborough Academy graduation program is a photo of a classmate who never got to cross the stage. Aaliyah Desmond’s life was cut short at age 10 in 2017 when she died in the shooting tragedy in Upper Big Tracadie that later became the subject of the Desmond Fatality Inquiry.
Groundbreaking for new Mulgrave Road Theatre Centre for the Arts
GUYSBOROUGH — The ground was broken for the start of an ambitious renovation and new construction project to establish the Mulgrave Road Centre for the Arts in Guysborough on July 2.
June 26 2024
ENDING ON A HIGH NOTE: There were plenty of toes tapping and hands clapping when Weldon and Josée Boudreau, along with Georges Hébert, took the stage at Ecole Belle-Baie in Larry’s River. The high energy show, which had everyone on the dance floor, was one of the highlights of a celebration marking the successful first year for the French-language school. Leo Avery, who accompanied the trio with his trusty spoons for a few tunes, is credited for sharing his time to show students that traditional music and instruments continue to have a place in the region. Speaking of tradition, prior to the concert, everyone enjoyed a fricot dinner prepared by teacher Charlie MacDonald.
Photo Credit: Hilary Hendsbee
Country Harbour club celebrates 50 years
COUNTRY HARBOUR — Shooting sports may be long gone here, but the Country Harbour Gun Club kept the name as it evolved into a hub of activity in the area. That evolution, and the important role of the building as a community centre over the years, was celebrated on June 22 at its 50th anniversary event.
MODG appoints citizen advisors on local policing
GUYSBOROUGH — Drawing at random from a handful of candidates, council for the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) has named area residents Lois Ann Dort, Brent McLeod and Catherine Marsden as their new citizen advisors on local law enforcement.
St. Mary’s to adopt new flag policy
SHERBROOKE — The Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s is pursuing a new flag policy after a staff report recommended the creation of one that defines when and where flags are flown, and to ensure fairness in recognizing diversity through flag-raising.
June 19 2024
FINANCIAL BOOST: It was a great day for municipalities in Guysborough County on June 14, with word that the provincial government would be contributing to four infrastructure projects in the region. The $900,000 comes from the Municipal Capital Growth Program of the Department of Municipal Affairs and Housing. During a stop at the Municipality of the District of Guysborough’s (MODG’s) municipal office, Guysborough-Tracadie MLA and Minister of Agriculture Greg Morrow (left) - with Town of Mulgrave Mayor Ron Chisholm, Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s Councillor Beulah Malloy and MODG Warden Vernon Pitts on hand - delivered the funding news. Full story in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Communications Nova Scotia
Revitalization planned for downtown Guysborough
GUYSBOROUGH — In a move that local officials are calling a first for the “shiretown” of Guysborough, the community is embarking on a thorough downtown makeover with a consultant’s comprehensive renewal plan due by the beginning of next year.
EverWind’s plans spark local concerns
GUYSBOROUGH — Mere weeks after EverWind Fuels promised to provide “meaningful engagement” across Guysborough County – where the company plans to erect hundreds of wind turbines generating thousands of megawatts of power over the next four years – some local citizens remain confused, frustrated and anxious about the future of their communities.
Celebrating Pride in St. Mary’s
SHERBROOKE — The first Pride celebration here will take place from June 21-23.
Province invests $900,000 in local infrastructure projects
GUYSBOROUGH — With almost $900,000 in new provincial funding, municipalities in Guysborough County will get to work on critical infrastructure that’s a key to their growth, local officials said last week.
June 12 2024
CLASSMATES REUNITE: Members of the Class of 2004 from the former Duncan MacMillan High School in Sheet Harbour gathered over the weekend to mark the 20th anniversary of their graduation. Elicia Crowell, donning the baseball cap, organized the get-together that included classmates Katie Frampton (left), Danielle Vokey, Ali Wood, Katie Kelly, Joanne Pelley, Ashley Sharpe and Meghan Cherry. There were plenty of stories told and great food enjoyed at The Henley House.
Photo Credit: Josh Kelly
MODG keen to further green energy deals following hydrogen summit
GUYSBOROUGH — The Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) is poised to become the “number one” supplier of green energy to international and domestic markets thanks to wind projects that are already in the hopper, says Chief Administrative Officer Barry Carroll.
Fire dangers spark concern in Sherbrooke area
ST. MARY’S — Neil Black is one of several St. Mary’s residents suggesting a ban on fireworks on Canada Day (July 1), due to potential safety concerns.
School officials welcome new cell phone rules
GUYSBOROUGH — Local principals are applauding a new provincial government directive last week restricting students’ use of cell phones and other personal mobile devices while attending Nova Scotia public schools.
June 5 2024
WHALE OF A GOOD TIME: Eleven-year-old Jasmine Isnor (left), Charlotte Langille, two, and her six-year-old brother, Alex, and Jerika Isnor, 9, attended the inaugural Sherbrooke World Oceans Day celebration at the Whale Sanctuary Project (WSP) location in Sherbrooke on June 1 with their grandmother, Elizabeth Smith. Read the full story and see more photos from the event in this week’s edition.
Photo Credit: Elizabeth Smith
GCIFA calls for seal population controls
CANSO — The head of the Guysborough County Inshore Fisherman’s Association (GCIFA) is calling on the federal government to bring in aggressive, new “controls” on millions of hungry grey and harp seals whose sheer numbers, she says, are weakening the east coast fishery.
Safety upgrades to dangerous Auld’s Cove intersection begin
AULDS COVE — Much-needed improvements to the major intersection of Highway 104 and Route 344 are finally underway, and the mayor of Mulgrave, for one, couldn’t be happier.
Cost keeps new C&D facility off the table
SHERBROOKE — If the Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s were to construct a new construction and demolition (C&D) waste facility at its transfer station in Liscomb, it could mean a large hike in residential tax bills for ratepayers. That’s why council has removed that option from the table, a decision that has disappointed a number of community members.
May 29 2024
LET THE GAMES BEGIN: John MacDonald (left), Chrissy Post, Rose Andrews, Mike Rudolph and Ricky Avery proudly carried the Guysborough Options for Adaptive Living (GOALS) banner for the opening ceremonies of the 2024 Eastern Highlands Special Olympics regional games, which took place on the STFX campus May 24. See more in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Contributed
Outmigration trend halted
GUYSBOROUGH — Halting a decades-long trend, the population of Guysborough County increased on a year-over-year basis last year, as more people came to stay than left to live elsewhere, according to newly released provincial government data.
NSCC student rides academic wave to Germany
CANSO — Brent Myatt has loved being on the water for as long as he can remember.
EverWind launches county-wide community consultations
GUYSBOROUGH — Open houses this week and next month in the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) and the Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s will ensure “meaningful engagement” with residents who stand to benefit from new energy investments over the next several years, says a senior spokesperson for EverWind Fuels.
May 22 2024
GETTING ALL DECKED OUT: The deck of the Jost Building at the Guysborough Marina is being rebuilt with composite materials this month. The wood railings are being replaced with glass panels to give better sight lines to the harbour for visitors, both inside and outside the building. The update is happening just in time for the opening of a new café upstairs in June.
Photo Credit: Brent MacLeod
Consultant hired to help guide economic development in MODG
GUYSBOROUGH — Expecting major, new industrial development over the next several years, the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) will pay $170,160 over the next six months for advice on the best way to support that growth.
Warden Pitts to seek re-election in District 6
GUYSBOROUGH — Warden Vernon Pitts plans to seek re-election in District 6 (Lundy, Larry’s River, New Harbour, Tor Bay, Charlos Cove) of the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) this fall. He told The Journal he decided to pursue a “final term” after receiving support from his wife, Shirley; other family members; friends and colleagues.
Iconic Sailor’s Rest Building to be relocated to Canso waterfront
CANSO — Council for the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) has voted to relocate the iconic Sailor’s Rest Building from Canso’s Centre Town Park to its waterfront, where it “would be of much greater value” to municipal revitalization efforts underway there.
May 15 2024
GOOD BEGINNINGS: The new daycare centre in Guysborough, the YMCA Early Learning Centre, celebrated its grand opening on May 13. Pictured (l-r) are Nicole MacDonald, senior manager, YMCA Childcare; Guysborough-Tracadie MLA Greg Morrow; Colleen Matheson, centre director; Sabrina Vatcher, CEO YMCA Cape Breton; three-year-old Josie Richard, event attendee; Glenn MacDonald, SRCE director of operations; MODG Councillor Mary Desmond; YMCA board member Kevin MacEachern; and Chris Grover, SRCE director of finance.
Photo Credit: Helen Murphy
Officials ‘optimistic’ Grassy Island ferry will return for tourist season
CANSO — Three years after the regular ferry to one of Guysborough County’s top destinations ceased operations, the Parks Canada official in charge of visitor experience at Grassy Island Fort National Historic Site is bullish about resuming the service in time for tourists this year.
Virtual urgent care at Canso hospital hailed as ‘great option’
CANSO — Efficient, cheerful and even a little disarming is how Susan O’Handley, co-chair of the Canso & Area Healthcare Working Group, describes Eastern Memorial Hospital’s (EMH) new virtual urgent care pilot program unveiled last month by Nova Scotia Health (NSH).
MODG seeks citizen advisors on local policing
GUYSBOROUGH — For the first time in more than a decade – and under orders from the provincial government – the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) is seeking citizen advisors on local policing to attend certain council meetings.
May 8 2024
CACHING IN: The 2024 Earth Day celebration in Sherbrooke included geocaching. Participants Tyler MacLaughlin (left), Dennis Rycroft, Mike Thistle and Ashlyn Breen (front) are shown on the hunt, which also included Edna Fitzherbert and Charlene Porter (not pictured). See story in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Charlene Porter
Townhouse style apartments to be built in Guysborough
GUYSBOROUGH — The Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) has cleared the way for a new housing development, green lighting the direct sale of a four-acre parcel of land at Cutler’s Brook Estates to Atlantic Edge on Properties Inc. of Antigonish for $50,000.
No ambulance cuts planned for Country Harbour, EHS says
COUNTRY HARBOUR — Despite worries raised at Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) council last week, there’s no scheme to permanently cut back the Emergency Health Services (EHS) base in Country Harbour, a provincial spokesperson told The Journal last week.
Stormont Union Church celebrating centennial
STORMONT — An historic building here – a pillar of the community for a century – will be the venue for an upcoming gospel concert to mark that milestone.
May 1 2024
AWARD WINNER: Scott Beaver (right), president of the St. Mary’s River Association, received the Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Conservation from Nova Scotia Lt. Gov. Arthur Joseph LeBlanc during the annual banquet for the Atlantic Salmon Federation (ASF) and Nova Scotia Salmon Association (NSSA) April 25 in Halifax.
Photo Credit: Heather Crosby
EverWind, MODG sign new community benefits deal
GUYSBOROUGH — As part of its plans to generate gigawatts of power from wind farms it intends to build in Guysborough County, EverWind Fuels Inc. has struck a community benefits agreement (CBA) that could pour millions of dollars into the local economy over the next several years, according to the company’s engagement manager Mark Stewart.
Maritime Launch changes course to ‘airport model’
CANSO — Due to supply problems caused by the the war in Ukraine, Maritime Launch Services (MLS) says it is pivoting away from sending its own rockets into space and becoming “more of an airport model” for others, says founder and CEO Steve Matier.
Scott Beaver recognized with Lt. Gov.’s Award for Conservation
HALIFAX — The president of the St. Mary’s River Association (SMRA) is the recipient of the 2024 Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Conservation.
April 24 2024
BLESSING OF THE FLEET: A sure sign of spring along the Eastern Shore is the launch of the annual lobster season. Another tradition is the blessing of the fleet, which took place at Quoddy Wharf on April 14. Jan Foley (left), Rev. Mike Foley, Stewart Martin, Rev. Marian Lucas-Jefferies and Tiny Pye were among the participants in the ceremony. Read more on the launch of the season in that part of the region in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Ann Martin
New Housing for Healthcare homes set for completion in December
GUYSBOROUGH — The Housing Trust of Nova Scotia (HTNS) is sharpening its scissors for a December ribbon-cutting on eight affordable, townhouse-style rental homes it will construct this fall at Cutler’s Brook Estates in Guysborough.
St. Mary’s council passes budget at AGM
SHERBROOKE — The Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s has its budget in place for the 2024-25 fiscal year.
Mulgrave food pantry receives unexpected $150,000 from province
MULGRAVE — Shaunna Scott of the Mulgrave and Area Medical Centre’s (MAMC) food pantry is still fathoming the good news. With a $150,000 grant this month from the provincial government, her operating budget has ballooned by ten-fold, literally overnight.
April 17 2024
HOCKEY SCIENCE: Jackson Hogan (Grade 4) and Lexi MacLennan (Grade 5) of St. Mary’s Education Centre in Sherbrooke were among participants in the 2024 Strait Regional Centre for Education (SRCE) science fair, which took place at the NSCC Strait Area Campus on April 9. The duo donned their hockey sweaters to present their project - The Best Puck - which studied the highest quality puck used for Canada’s beloved sport. See more on the annual event in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: SRCE
Several companies express interest in Goldboro lands
GOLDBORO — With a major parcel of land about to change hands in the Goldboro Industrial Park, the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) is on the cusp of a new wave of economic development, especially from renewables, says MODG’s Chief Administrative Officer Barry Carroll.
Bring home the ospreys
BEAVER HARBOUR — Many people hang feeders on their properties to provide nourishment for their feathered friends, a highly regarded practice that may seem mundane compared to an effort put forth by a couple from this Eastern Shore community to provide a home-away-from-home for Nova Scotia’s provincial bird.
Major steps forward for new transit program in St. Mary’s
SHERBROOKE — A transit ride program that will serve communities in the Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s has a new name – SMART-GO.
April 10 2024
ATHLETES REACH MILESTONE: Thirty members of the Rising Sun Taekwondo Club in Guysborough, under Coach Josh, completed their first belt tests on April 1. The participants - of all ages - celebrated with family and friends after their successful session. See more in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Contributed
Virtual doctors now on tap at local hospitals
GUYSBOROUGH — Residents needing urgent care at any one of Guysborough County’s three hospitals now have access to a virtual doctor at the tap of a tablet computer, thanks to a new pilot program of Nova Scotia Health (NSH).
Legacy of gold mining continues to pollute Gegogan Lake
GEGOGAN LAKE — A new study showing that one of Guysborough County’s lakes remains polluted from a legacy of gold mining that occurred more than 80 years ago has taken at least one area environmentalist by surprise.
France asks WSP for proposal to take in orcas
PORT HILFORD — The proposed Whale Sanctuary Project (WSP) here continues to garner international attention; most recently, by receiving an invitation from the French government to submit a pitch to provide a home for a pair of captive orcas from that country.
St. Mary’s hears about climate change trends affecting municipality
SHERBROOKE — Councillors received a lesson regarding climate change trends in their communities during the Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s committee of the whole meeting on April 3.
April 3 2024
SWEET SPRING SURPRISE: Wide smiles crossed the faces of Emberly and her aunt, Marie, as they discovered some of the treats that they gathered during the annual Easter egg hunt at Sailor’s Rest Park in Canso on March 30. See more on the springtime celebration in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Contributed
Roads outstanding issue with province for MODG, Mulgrave
GUYSBOROUGH — A new deal between the province and local governments may be laudable, but municipal leaders in Guysborough County still want the rubber to hit the road in the first major update of the service exchange agreement in 30 years, implemented March 28.
Pieridae ‘confident’ in upcoming sale of former LNG site
GOLDBORO — The Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) has no plans to buy back the 267-acre plot of land it sold to Pieridae Energy nine years ago to develop a $10 billion liquefied natural gas (LNG) facility in Goldboro, Warden Vernon Pitts confirmed in an email to The Journal last week.
Sweetness always on tap at Lazy Maple Lodge in North Ogden
NORTH OGDEN — It is ironic that the word ‘lazy’ graces the name of a product that involves plenty of work to produce. So, how did Lazy Maple Lodge – a family-run maple syrup business in North Ogden, Guysborough County – get its iconic moniker?
March 27 2024
GRAND SLAM PERFORMANCE: Simone Spears, a native of Liscomb, took the field earlier this month with the powerful All World Sports (AWS) team and captured gold at the 2024 World Slowpitch Championships in Barcelona, Spain. The graduate of St. Mary’s Academy boasted a sensational .708 average, while belting seven home runs, in the international competition. Read more about her and her team’s accomplishments in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Contributed
No new taxes in MODG
GUYSBOROUGH — With robust spending on community initiatives and major projects, and no new taxes, the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) delivered what Warden Vernon Pitts described last week as a “good news budget” for 2024-2025.
Minister announces amendments to Antigonish consolidation bill
HALIFAX — Although changes have been made to Bill 407 – the Antigonish Consolidation Act – detractors of the proposed provincial legislation argue that key concerns remain.
St. Mary’s considers increasing safety, security measures
SHERBROOKE — With the continuing increase in breaches affecting individuals and organizations, including governments, the Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s is exploring ways in which to make its offices and other buildings more safe and secure.
March 20 2024
TROUBLED BRIDGES OVER LOCAL WATERS: A number of residents in the Sherbrooke area are expressing concerns over the condition of a pair of local bridges, including former District of St. Mary’s councillor Debbie Findlay (pictured), who is among those questioning the structural integrity of one located at Archibalds Brook on Highway #7. She and others note that the bridge is leaning progressively towards the brook and adjoining fields, a source of alarm for drivers who travel across it. The condition of the bridge on Highway #211, at the corner of Red Hill Rd., is also sparking worries in the community. See story in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Joanne Jordan
Guysborough housing projects moving forward
GUYSBOROUGH — With an official opening date now set for the long-awaited, 36-unit Carleton Place apartment building in the center of Guysborough, “the wheels are in motion” for another nearby complex, says the project’s Antigonish-based developer.
Griffiths report will be ‘front and centre’ in MODG’s plans
GUYSBOROUGH — When it comes to the details of the municipal budget for the upcoming fiscal year (ending March 31, 2025), the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG’s) chief administrative officer keeps his cards dutifully close to his chest.
‘Climate-ready’ causeway in the works for Parker Hart Road
MARSHALL POINT — Residents of this coastal enclave at the northeastern mouth of Guysborough Harbour should soon get a more “climate-ready” causeway to better resist the growing number of damaging tidal surges in the area, according to a provincial official.
March 13 2024
CELEBRATING WOMEN: A Sheet Harbour event to mark International Women’s Day (IWD) March 8 included a session called, Then and Now – A Discussion On How Times Have Changed. Myrene Keating-Owen (left), executive director of LEA Place Women’s Resource Centre; Lindsay Pye, support systems navigator at LEA Place; and beloved community member Gladys Westhaver shared their thoughts and helped lead the discussion. Westhaver, a Sheet Harbour native and mother of four children, has been a go-to person for years, lending a hand in many ways, including as a hairdresser, along with cooking, baking, sewing and filling out forms for people. She worked for a short time at the Sheet Harbour Historical Society, gathering and recording peoples’ stories. There was a great turnout for the celebration, which was organized by LEA Place. Full story in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Crissy Watt
Guysborough Food Bank ‘busier than ever’
GUYSBOROUGH — The Guysborough Food Bank is seeing a sharp increase in the number of people it serves, and the trend is “ongoing” says its manager.
Near miss motivates mayor to push for intersection solution
MULGRAVE — A near miss with an 18-wheeler, a phone call to CN Rail and an unconfirmed commitment from Genesee & Wyoming Rail, is motivating Mulgrave Mayor Ron Chisholm to push for a permanent fix to a longstanding traffic hazard on the outskirts of town.
Landfall for offshore wind energy not decided
GUYSBOROUGH — The Department of Natural Resources and Renewables (NRR) will not confirm that it plans to use the former Sable natural gas corridor, with landfall at Goldboro in eastern Guysborough County, to bring offshore wind energy into the province.
March 6 2024
A DAY TO REMEMBER: Emmanuel Nahimana (left), assistant director of la FANE, the Acadian Federation of Nova Scotia, chats with Jude Avery, president of la Société Acadienne de Torbé at a double celebration for the tight-knit community on March 1; a new name, École Belle-Baie, for its five-month-old public school, and a salute to one of its students, Kyle Delorey, a tenth-grader who will represent the area in the school board’s province-wide concert on March 7.
Photo Credit: Hilary Hendsbee
New name chosen for Acadian school
LARRY’S RIVER — A mere five months after it flung wide its doors, the Tor Bay region’s French language public school has a new name its founders say captures the history and hopes of an entire community: École Belle-Baie.
Cassandra Desmond acquitted of six charges
ANTIGONISH — Thirty-two-year-old Cassandra Desmond of Antigonish, formerly of Lincolnville, has been acquitted of six charges stemming from a fight at Dooly’s billiard room in downtown Antigonish two years ago.
Cochrane Hill drilling results ‘encouraging,’ mining company says
COCHRANE HILL — The Australian-based mining giant that’s been searching for gold in the Cochrane Hill area of the Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s says it has found “highly encouraging” signs after drilling its “first deep hole” in the area.
Mulroney had deep affection for StFX, Central Nova
CENTRAL NOVA — It was the late summer of 1955 and a 16-year-old boy from rural Quebec arrived on the StFX campus “carrying a cardboard suitcase and wearing the only blazer I owned” to embark on a life’s journey that included almost a decade in the highest elected office in Canada.
February 28 2024
PLAN UNVEILED: Nova Scotia Environment and Climate Change Minister Timothy Halman (left) and Municipal Affairs and Housing Minister John Lohr released The Future of Nova Scotia’s Coastline Feb. 26 in Halifax. The plan includes 15 actions for property owners, municipalities and the province to make coastal homes, communities and natural areas safer. Read the full story in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Communications Nova Scotia
New grassroots housing society launched for Guysborough County
GUYSBOROUGH — With its founding meeting last week, Community First: Guysborough County Housing Association marked its debut as the first grassroots group from the area with the goal of providing affordable housing in the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG), District of St. Mary’s and Town of Mulgrave.
U.K. visit reinforces huge potential in offshore wind
GUYSBOROUGH — Barry Carroll makes no bones about it – readying the Eastern Shore for its future in offshore wind, the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG)-led fact-finding mission to the U.K.’s massive wind farms last month was nothing short of “fantastic.”
Investigation continues into death of ship worker in Mulgrave
MULGRAVE — The Nova Scotia Department of Labour, Skills and Immigration (LSI) continues to investigate following the workplace death of a crewmember of a Clearwater Seafood vessel moored in Mulgrave for routine servicing last week.
February 21 2024
MAKING HISTORY: The Afrikan Canadian Heritage and Friendship Centre (ACHFC) hosted its first African Heritage Month gala at the Chedabucto Lifestyle Complex Feb. 17. Despite the wintry conditions, a sell-out crowd of more than 100 people, including members of the Chedabucto Education Centre/Guysborough Academy teaching staff – Angela MacKeen (front, left), Colleen Pelley, Patsy Borden, Tamara Borden (back, left), Barbara Avery, Amanda Millar, Liz MacIntosh, Tera Dorrington, Lori Wilson and Michael Wilson, attended. The event celebrated the 2024 African Heritage Month theme – Our Smiles, Our Joy, Our Resilience as African Nova Scotians. Full story in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Contributed
Canso fishers advised to learn from Scots’ mistakes in offshore wind
CANSO — Leaving the busy English port of Newcastle upon Tyne last month, Ginny Boudreau could hear Elspeth Macdonald’s words ringing in her head as clear as a bell.
WSP hopes for early opening with three orcas
SHERBROOKE — The Whale Sanctuary Project (WSP) is in discussions with French authorities for the transfer of three whales to a “fast-tracked” facility at its site near Port Hilford, as soon as spring 2025, says the organization’s co-founder Michael Mountain.
Child poverty trends up sharply in Guysborough County
GUYSBOROUGH — A new report outlining a sharp rise in childhood poverty rates in Guysborough County after the first year of the pandemic is renewing calls for a substantial shift in public policy.
February 14 2024
DIGGING OUT: It took not only machinery but also person-power – including from Mike Porter, John Fenton, Alan McKeen and Andy McGrath – to carry out the snow removal process at Historic Sherbrooke Village. The two-day blast, from Feb. 3-5, covered most of the property with an estimated 30 inches of snow.
Photo Credit: Contributed
Digging out
GUYSBOROUGH COUNTY – In the aftermath of a multi-day, record-breaking winter storm that swept across the region Feb. 3-5, something else was left behind – other than seemingly mile-high piles of snow.
Ecum Secum fire hall needs major repairs or replacement
ECUM SECUM — Most days, Ecum Secum’s fire hall looks like any other unassuming public building in any other town along the Eastern Shore. But, on this day, under a clear, blue February sky, Mike Durnford and Tiffany Pye are having a hard time describing it as anything but shabby.
Another abandoned wreck haunts Marie Joseph
MARIE JOSEPH — Canadian marine authorities have, once again, trained their spyglasses on one of Marie Joseph’s abandoned ships – this time, a half-sunken fishing boat they say is a navigational hazard to this tiny Eastern Shore community.
February 7 2024
CONCERNS REMAIN: Cassandra Desmond, sister of Lionel Desmond, and Adam Rodgers, lawyer for Lionel Desmond’s estate, address the media following the release of former provincial court judge Paul Scovil’s final report on the Desmond Fatality Inquiry in Port Hawkesbury on Jan. 31. They’re concerned the recommendations to improve health and social supports for military veterans and the African Nova Scotian community may not be effective.
Photo Credit: Contributed
Desmond Inquiry calls for changes, but critics say recommendations fall short
GUYSBOROUGH — The long-awaited report of the Desmond Fatality Inquiry, which took six years to complete and was released on Jan. 31, has found that “no one person” should shoulder the blame for the horrific triple murder-suicide that happened in Upper Big Tracadie on Jan. 3, 2017. That’s when Afghanistan veteran Lionel Desmond shot and killed his wife, Shanna; their daughter, 10-year-old Aaliyah; and his mother Brenda, before taking his own life.
Multi-day storm puts wintry grip on Guysborough County, Eastern Shore
GUYSBOROUGH – Since we’ve no place to go, let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.
Desmond Inquiry report gets ‘F’ in understanding African Nova Scotian realities, says councillor
GUYSBOROUGH — For suggesting new but “unworkable” mental health and social supports for rural African Nova Scotians, Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) Councillor Mary Desmond is unequivocal about the Desmond Fatality Inquiry’s final report.
January 31 2024
DELICIOUS FUNDRAISER: There was a great turnout for the Canso Lions Club’s pancake and sausage breakfast fundraiser on Jan. 28. Here, Mary and Edmund LeBlanc pick up their meal from Lion Theresa Stevens. Proceeds from the event will benefit the CNIB. See more in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Contributed
New housing project proposed for Guysborough
GUYSBOROUGH — With the grand opening of their 36-unit Carleton Place Apartments in downtown Guysborough ahead of schedule, Caper Developments Ltd. expects to break ground on an even larger housing complex on land owned by the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) as early as this spring.
Education taxes in St. Mary’s forecasted to increase
SHERBROOKE — The Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s (MODSM) should expect a 10 per cent hike in education taxes in the 2024-25 fiscal year, as property values in the area continue to rise, says Finance Director Marian Fraser.
Consolidation of Antigonish town, county may soon proceed
ANTIGONISH — A crucial step required to carry out the proposed consolidation of the Town of Antigonish and Municipality of the County of Antigonish could be coming in the next few weeks.
January 24 2024
CURLING CHAMPS: Fun and sportsmanship were the order of the day for the 53rd Edgar Sceles Memorial bonspiel this past weekend at the Chedabucto Curling Club. Eight teams battled hard to try and win the big trophy. Team Long (Alison Billard, Gavin Dort, Paul Long and Ryan Sangster) came out on top. See more in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Contributed
Business partnership takes steps to realize new vision for MODG
GUYSBOROUGH — Two months after hosting its first visioning conference, the Guysborough District Business Partnership (GDBP) has begun launching concrete initiatives to “achieve the goals” of its new strategic plan for the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG).
Fraud reports double in MODG
GUYSBOROUGH — Local RCMP fielded more than twice the number of fraud reports between October and December 2023 than in the comparable period in 2022, according to new crime stats prepared for the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG).
Eddy Point Marine Park seeks $100,000 from MODG for new wharf
EDDY POINT — Having reached the end of its funding rope, the non-profit association in charge of the Eddy Point Marine Park is seeking $100,000 from the Municipality of the District of Guysborough to (MODG) help restore the area’s storm-damaged wharf.
January 17 2024
TASTY TREAT: Leigh McFarlane, owner of Sanctuary Shore General Store and the Soap Company of Nova Scotia, prepares a batch of molasses brown bread, one of their most popular menu items. The Sherbrooke home for the community-based businesses – the former St. Mary’s River Smokehouses on Highway #7 – is undergoing renovations and an expansion. Read more about the project in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Christina Boyer
Impact of wind developments on Canso fishery key priority for delegation to U.K.
GUYSBOROUGH — There’s a reason why the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) is picking up the tab for the Guysborough County Inshore Fishermen’s Association’s (GCIFA) participation in its fact finding mission to the United Kingdom later this month.
St. Mary’s facing $800,000 bill for new C&D landfill
ST. MARY’S — Complying with recent changes to provincial regulations governing the disposal of construction and demolition (C&D) waste could cost the Municipality of the District of St. Mary’s as much as $800,000 over the next two years, local officials have told The Journal.
Conservation groups critical over MODG's remarks on protected lands
GUYSBOROUGH — Nova Scotia conservation groups have come out swinging against the Municipality of the District of Guysborough’s (MODG) response to new wilderness designations in parts of Guysborough County.
January 10 2024
BACK ON THE BLADES: The Chedabucto Lifestyle Complex (CLC) outdoor ice surfaces in Guysborough opened for another season over the weekend. Four-year-old Charlie Scott and Rory Scott, two, of Boylston, with some help from Sarah Scott, made their way around the figure-eight skating loop. See more photos in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Contributed
Isaacs Harbour building saved from demolition
ISAACS HARBOUR — A 100-year-old building recently scheduled for demolition in Isaacs Harbour has a new lease on life thanks to Water and View Estates Development of Antigonish, which bought the property from the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) last week for $21,000.
Canso ratepayers bring taxation concerns to MODG council
GUYSBOROUGH — The Eastern Guysborough County Ratepayers Association (EGCRA) and staff for the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) locked horns at an open council meeting last week over the definition of fair taxation.
MODG surprised, upset by province’s wilderness protections
GUYSBOROUGH — “Dissatisfied” by the province’s unexpected protection of thousands of hectares of Crown land in the Municipality of the District of Guysborough (MODG) last month, council is requesting a hearing with the area’s MLA on the potential economic fallout.
January 3 2024
COOL TRADITION: For the 34th time, a crew of brave swimmers gathered at the Canso Marina for a community New Year’s Day polar bear dip on Monday afternoon (Jan. 1). As usual, a large group of spectators dotted the shore while participants of all ages – both returnees and newcomers – took the plunge. Mike Geddes and Lucy Avery continued their streak of making a splash in every celebration. See more photos of the event in this week's edition.
Photo Credit: Sheri Geddes
Fierce pre-Christmas flood soaks St. Mary’s
ST. MARY’S — Heavy rain, fierce winds and widespread flooding threatened to dampen Christmas for area residents, as the St. Mary’s River broke its banks, washed over roads and poured into basements in communities from Sherbrooke to Glenelg on Dec. 21.
Food bank demand continues to rise in St. Mary’s
SHERBROOKE — Demand for food at the St. Mary’s Food bank is rising – a trend that is likely to continue in 2024.
Province protects thousands of acres across Guysborough County
GUYSBOROUGH — In a move that one leading conservationist hails as “a wonderful surprise,” the provincial government has permanently shielded nearly 6,725 hectares (16,617 acres) of Guysborough County from all forms of industrial resource extraction.
