Evan Taylor
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Articles by Evan Taylor
Nor’easter arrives in N.S. bringing rain, snow and heavy wind
Nova Scotians are waking up to the arrival of a major early-season storm this morning, bringing a combination of heavy, wet snow inland and steady rainfall along the Atlantic coast. Wind is also becoming a factor as the system continues to move across the province. Environment Canada says precipitation began in the southwest overnight and will spread through central and eastern regions through the day, creating quickly changing travel conditions.
Pijinuiskaq Paddle Festival returns to Bridgewater with expanded weekend lineup
The LaHave River will once again be filled with colour later this month as the Pijinuiskaq Paddle Festival returns for its second year. The event builds on the success of 2024’s inaugural Parade of Paddlers, which drew more than 170 people onto the water. Organizers say this year it has grown into a two-day festival with clinics, cultural programming, and the main group paddle. Economic Development Officer Donna Hatt says the community response made it clear the event should become a tradition.
Nova Scotia plans to end 80/20 rule for highway contracts, sparking pushback
The Nova Scotia government plans to eliminate the long-standing 80/20 rule that guaranteed most trucking work on provincial highway projects went to local operators — a move drawing sharp criticism from small businesses and opposition leaders. Since the early 1990s, the rule required that 80 per cent of trucking services for capital highway contracts be provided by members of the Truckers Association of Nova Scotia (TANS), with the remaining 20 per cent supplied by the contractor.
Queens applies to double water rates as costs surge
The Region of Queens Municipality is applying to raise water rates for households in Liverpool and Brooklyn over the next three years. At a council meeting this week, councillors voted to submit a formal application to the Nova Scotia Regulatory and Appeals Board, which oversees all public water utilities in the province.
The Town of Bridgewater has installed a replacement floating dock at Shipyards Landing after the old one caught fire and was destroyed. According to town officials, they were able to source a replacement quickly that has already been installed. The cause of the fire is still under investigation by Bridgewater Police who were first alerted to the fire Sunday morning. Anyone with information about the fire is asked to contact Bridgewater Police.
Residents in the Lower Northfield area of Lunenburg County are being told to stay inside and lock their doors as RCMP search for a potentially dangerous man. Police say they’re responding to an ongoing incident near civic 2275 on Northfield Road involving 44-year-old Richard MacInnis, who may be armed. He was last seen on foot in the area and is described as six feet tall, approximately 175 pounds, with auburn hair and green eyes.
Bridgewater transit halted due to mechanical issues
The Town of Bridgewater has suspended it’s local transit operation as of Thursday morning. According to the town officials, the bus which services the transit circuit around town experienced unforeseen mechanical issues that required it to be taken off the road. The extent of the mechanical issue is now being investigated and worked on, with the town hoping to have it operational as soon as possible.
Queens Council begins budget talks and explores tourism levy
The Region of Queens is moving into budget season, with a series of public meetings now underway to shape the 2025–2026 municipal budget. The first sessions are focused on presenting and discussing a preliminary draft, with time set aside on April 24 and April 28 from 6 to 9 p.m. in council chambers. A third meeting may take place on May 6 if more discussion is needed. All meetings are open to the public and available to watch via livestream on the municipality’s Facebook and YouTube pages.
MODL passes 2025/2026 budget, rates holding steady
The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg(MODL) has approved its 2025–26 operating and capital budgets, with no changes to residential or commercial tax rates. The operating budget totals $46.7 million, with a projected surplus of just over $120,000. The capital budget, combined with Canada Community-Building Fund contributions, adds up to $18.3 million.
MODL scraps livestock limits for now, promises public consultation
The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg is walking back proposed limits on backyard livestock and small-scale agriculture, following what the mayor describes as a wave of community concern. A draft planning strategy released earlier this month would have tied the number of livestock permitted on residential properties to lot size—restricting most owners to one animal unit per acre. That meant limits on chickens, goats, rabbits, and other animals unless residents owned larger parcels of land.
Update: Missing Emu safe at home after spotted on Hwy 103
An emu named Fluff is back at home safe and sound after escaping from its owner’s property on Beech Hill Road near Liverpool. The large 27-year-old flightless bird was spotted multiple times along Highway 103, particularly near Exit 21 through the week after going missing March 15. The owner says Fluff likely made his way to the highway through nearby wooded trails. However, according to the Nova Scotia Lost Dog Network, Fluff was lured home Saturday afternoon.
Lunenburg County launches plans for 55+ Games
The Nova Scotia 55+ Games have officially launched, with events set to take place across Lunenburg County from September 21 to 24, 2025. The launch event unveiled the official logo and website, which will provide information on volunteer opportunities, event locations, and accommodations for visitors. Co-chair Joanne Fury says the Games will bring together more than 700 participants from across the province. “The 55+ Games are a provincial event that welcomes teams from different regions.
Radiothon raises over $166K, all-time fundraising over $2 million
The 15th annual Gift from the Heart Radiothon has raised just over $167,700 for South Shore Regional Hospital, surpassing its $157,000 goal by $10,000. This year’s event also pushed the Radiothon’s total fundraising past the $2 million mark since it began. The money will go toward purchasing MOLLI, a device used in breast cancer surgeries. The technology provides a less invasive and more comfortable alternative to traditional wire localization procedures.
Radiothon pulls in $167,000 to improve breast cancer care
The 15th Annual Gift From the Heart Radiothon pulled in more than $167,000 to improve breast cancer care on the South Shore. This year’s focus is on bringing MOLLI technology to South Shore Regional Hospital, offering patients a less invasive and alternative to traditional breast cancer surgery procedures. “We are so thankful and grateful for how our South Shore communities rally around our local hospitals.
Bridgewater Police searching for person who threatened justice building
Bridgewater Police and RCMP are conducting a search in northern Lunenburg County after alleged threats were made against a provincial justice building on Wednesday. Officers, including the Bridgewater Police K-9 unit and members of the Bridgewater Fire Department’s drone team, have been in the Nineveh area since early Thursday morning. Police say they are trying to locate and arrest a man believed to be responsible for the threats.
Lunenburg Council meeting cancelled due to snow
Lunenburg is seeing closures and cancellations due to today’s snowfall. As of 1 p.m., Town Hall and all recreation facilities were closed, and all recreational programming for Wednesday night has been cancelled. The Committee of the Whole meeting, scheduled for 6 p.m., is also cancelled. Residents are reminded to remove vehicles from streets before and during snow-clearing operations. Vehicles left parked on the street during a storm or before plowing is complete may be ticketed or towed.
Lunenburg firefighters recognized for role in Shelburne wildfires
The Lunenburg Fire Department recently held its annual meeting during which it’s leaders were selected for the upcoming year and awards were presented to some firefighters for their service. Six firefighters were honoured for their crucial role in battling the 2023 Shelburne wildfires. Captains Trevor Lohnes, Barrett Risser, Colby Rafuse, and Noah Romkey, along with Pump Operator Nick Falt and Firefighter Kevin Taylor, were awarded medals for their efforts in saving homes.
Park View put on hold and secure
Park View Education Centre in Bridgewater was put on a hold and secure Friday afternoon. The South Shore Regional Centre for Education (SSRCE) sent out a notice shortly after noon that it was initiated in response to a threat received by the school. They also indicated that all students and staff are safe. A hold and secure is a response to a threat or incident in the general vicinity of a school.
Bridgewater businesses working together on new art installation
Painting has begun for a new art installation in Bridgewater that is bringing the community and local businesses together. In celebration of the town’s 125 anniversary, an idea was put forward by the South Shore Centre to construct a large “BRIDGEWATER” sign on the backside of the mall which faces Pijinuiskaq Park.
Bridgewater ready to move forward with $69.4M wastewater upgrades
Now that all funding is in place, Bridgewater can move forward with wastewater system upgrades designed to facilitate the community’s growth for years to come. The town will see a $69.4-million investment from all three levels of government, earmarked for significant infrastructure improvements.
Mushamush Beach gets accessibility upgrade
More people should now be able to access the water at the Mushamush Beach Park in Sweetland thanks to a new accessibility upgrade. The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg (MODL) recently purchased and installed its first-ever Mobi-Mat. Mobi-Mats are essentially a flat mat that leads to the water, providing a flat stable platform for wheelchair users or people with other mobility issues to safely enter the water.
Queens to coordinate cleanup of burnt property in Liverpool
The Region of Queens will coordinate the cleanup of a house on Main Street that caught fire earlier this year. On May 13, The historic Hendry House, which was abandoned at the time caught fire, no one was injured. RCMP at the time deemed the fire suspicious and the investigation remains open. Following the fire, the remaining structure was torn down by firefighters, and a fence was erected by the Region of Queens around the debris.
Public swim closures at Lunenburg Pool for Mariners Invitational
There will be no public or lane swims at the Luneburg Swimming Pool on Friday evening and Saturday due to a swim meet. Final preparations for the meet are being made for the Lunenburg Mariners Invitational on Friday night and the meet will occupy the pool all of Saturday. The meet is also still in need of a few volunteers to serve as scribes during the afternoon races on Saturday, no experience is required and anyone interested is asked to contact the Mariners via email.
Two people injured after fleeing RCMP checkpoint near Liverpool
Two people sustained serious injuries after fleeing from an RCMP checkpoint near Liverpool that was set up on Milton Road. On Saturday, July 27 around 1:00 a.m. RCMP witnessed a Volkswagen Golf approach the checkpoint before abruptly making a U-turn to head north on Highway 8. An officer left the checkpoint to investigate and after a short search, they located the vehicle overturned on the side of Highway 8. The driver sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to hospital by EHS.
New 96 room long-term care home opens in Mahone Bay
MacLeod Cares has opened its new Mahone Bay Nursing Home which is replacing its old 65-bed facility. “Today is an exciting day as we open this new facility that’s been built to the current standard and will provide safe, quality care for seniors for years to come,” said MacLeod Care CEO Ramsay Duff.
New 96 room long-term care home opens in Mahone Bay
MacLeod Cares has opened its new Mahone Bay Nursing Home which is replacing its old 65-bed facility. “Today is an exciting day as we open this new facility that’s been built to the current standard and will provide safe, quality care for seniors for years to come,” said MacLeod Care CEO Ramsay Duff.
Second derelict vessel hauled out of LaHave River
The second of three vessels being removed from the LaHave River has left Bridgewater after being dismantled on land. Earlier this summer the Canadian Coast Guard began overseeing the dismantling of three derelict ships that had been sitting on a wharf along the LaHave River for years. The three ships are being dismantled on site as opposed to being towed down the river as they were in no shape to make the voyage. The latest ship to be fully removed was the Cape Rouge.
Second derelict vessel hauled out of LaHave River
The second of three vessels being removed from the LaHave River has left Bridgewater after being dismantled on land. Earlier this summer the Canadian Coast Guard began overseeing the dismantling of three derelict ships that had been sitting on a wharf along the LaHave River for years. The three ships are being dismantled on site as opposed to being towed down the river as they were in no shape to make the voyage. The latest ship to be fully removed was the Cape Rouge.
Health records now available through YourHealthNS app
Nova Scotia launched the latest feature on its YourHealthNS app on Wednesday allowing Nova Scotians to access their medical records from anywhere. “Nova Scotians deserve to have access to information about the healthcare they have received,” said Health and Wellness Minister Michelle Thompson.
Bridgewater mayor seeking reelection
Bridgewater Mayor David Mitchell has announced he will seek reelection during the fall municipal elections. In a post on his social media, Mitchell said that after a discussion with his family, in which they gave their blessing, he determined he would run for his third term as mayor.
Youth takes responsibility for Centennial Bridge Fire
The Bridgewater Police Service (BPS) says a youth turned themselves in after owning up to starting the fire on the Centennial Trail Bridge. The fire broke out Thursday afternoon. Fortunately, firefighters were able to extinguish it quickly before the entire structure was destroyed. According to BPS on Friday the youth and one of his parents came to their station and the youth admitted they started the fire.
Youth takes responsibility for Centennial Bridge Fire
The Bridgewater Police Service (BPS) says a youth turned themselves in after owning up to starting the fire on the Centennial Trail Bridge. The fire broke out Thursday afternoon. Fortunately, firefighters were able to extinguish it quickly before the entire structure was destroyed. According to BPS on Friday the youth and one of his parents came to their station and the youth admitted they started the fire.
Youth takes responsibility for Centennial Bridge Fire
The Bridgewater Police Service (BPS) is reporting a youth turned themselves in and owned up to starting the fire on the Centennial Trail Bridge. The fire broke out Thursday afternoon. Fortunately, firefighters were able to extinguish it quickly before the entire structure was destroyed. According to BPS on Friday the youth and one of his parents came to their station and the youth admitted they started the fire.
Outboard thefts continue in Lunenburg County
Another outboard motor has been stolen between Mahone Bay in Lunenburg. RCMP issued a notice earlier this week alerting residents that there have been multiple marine thefts in that area. The first was reported on June 6, and police say the thefts occurred during early morning hours. The most recent incident saw a 15-horsepower Yamaha motor stolen from the back of the rescue boat owned by Lunenburg Kayak Rental & Tours.
Outboard thefts continue in Lunenburg County
Another outboard motor has been stolen between Mahone Bay in Lunenburg. RCMP issued a notice earlier this week alerting residents that there have been multiple marine thefts in that area. The first was reported on June 6, and police say the thefts occurred during early morning hours. The most recent incident saw a 15-horsepower Yamaha motor stolen from the back of the rescue boat owned by Lunenburg Kayak Rental & Tours.
MODL ratifies coastal protection regulations
The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg (MODL) has ratified its coastal protection guidelines, which will guide what can and cannot be built in coastal areas. “This marks a significant step forward in safeguarding our coastal communities for future generations,” said Mayor Carolyn Bolivar-Getson. “These new coastal regulations reflects our commitment to addressing the challenges of climate change and ensuring that our coastlines remain resilient and protected.
Police say fake 911 call caused Park View Lock Down
The Bridgewater Police Service (BPS) says the lockdown at Park View on Tuesday was caused by a fake 911 call. Deputy Chief Danny MacPhee says they were able to determine the threat was not credible shortly after the school went into lockdown. “We were able to get a hold of the 911 audio the fastest I can ever recall,” said MacPhee.
MODL ratifies coastal protection regulations
The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg (MODL) has ratified its coastal protection guidelines, which will guide what can and cannot be built in coastal areas. “This marks a significant step forward in safeguarding our coastal communities for future generations,” said Mayor Carolyn Bolivar-Getson. “These new coastal regulations reflects our commitment to addressing the challenges of climate change and ensuring that our coastlines remain resilient and protected.
Police say fake 911 call caused Park View Lock Down
The Bridgewater Police Service (BPS) says the lockdown at Park View on Tuesday was caused by a fake 911 call. Deputy Chief Danny MacPhee says they were able to determine the threat was not credible shortly after the school went into lockdown. “We were able to get a hold of the 911 audio the fastest I can ever recall,” said MacPhee.
LCLC offering free public swims during heatwave
The Lunenburg County Lifestyle Centre (LCLC) will waive fees for public swims and skating in response to a heat wave that will arrive in the province on Wednesday. Fees will not be charged from Tuesday to Thursday, with normal business resuming on Friday. Schedule for upcoming public swims and skates: Tuesday – June 18 Swimming: 2 -4pm / 8-9pm Skating: 3 – 6pm Wednesday – June 19 Swimming: 2 -4pm / 8-9pm Skating: 3 – 4:45pm Thursday – June 20 Swimming: 2 -4pm / 7 – 8pm Skating: 3 – 6pm
Exams at North Queens Community School moving due to heatwave
Exams are being moved from North Queens Community School (NQCC) in response to the looming heat wave. Between Tuesday and Wednesday temperatures in Queens are projected to reach the mid-30s and will feel even hotter with the humidity. As NQQC is not air-conditioned there were concerns over students ability to write exams comfortably on-site. School management has opted to move exams scheduled for June 19 and June 20 to the nearby North Queens Fire Hall which is air-conditioned.
Exams at North Queens Community School moving due to heatwave
Exams are being moved from North Queens Community School (NQCC) in response to the looming heat wave. Between Tuesday and Wednesday temperatures in Queens are projected to reach the mid-30s and will feel even hotter with the humidity. As NQQC is not air-conditioned there were concerns over students ability to write exams comfortably on-site. School management has opted to move exams scheduled for June 19 and June 20 to the nearby North Queens Fire Hall which is air-conditioned.
Exams at North Queens Community School moving due to heatwave
Exams are being moved from North Queens Community School (NQCC) in response to the looming heat wave. Between Tuesday and Wednesday temperatures in Queens are projected to reach the mid-30s and will feel even hotter with the humidity. As NQQC is not air-conditioned there were concerns over students ability to write exams comfortably on-site. School management has opted to move exams scheduled for June 19 and June 20 to the nearby North Queens Fire Hall which is air-conditioned.
LCLC offering free public swims during heatwave
The Lunenburg County Lifestyle Centre (LCLC) will waive fees for public swims and skating in response to a heat wave that will arrive in the province on Wednesday. Fees will not be charged from Tuesday to Thursday, with normal business resuming on Friday. Schedule for upcoming public swims and skates: Tuesday – June 18 Swimming: 2 -4pm / 8-9pm Skating: 3 – 6pm Wednesday – June 19 Swimming: 2 -4pm / 8-9pm Skating: 3 – 4:45pm Thursday – June 20 Swimming: 2 -4pm / 7 – 8pm Skating: 3 – 6pm
Parkview placed on lockdown
Parkview Education Centre was put on lockdown Tuesday morning. The South Shore Regional Centre for Education said police were on site when we contacted them around 11:00 a.m., but could not provide any further information. In an email sent out to parents at 11:23 a.m. Parkview Principal Vicki Crozier indicated police were called in response to a threat. In images shared online police can be seen at the school in full uniform with their weapons out.
Update: Highway 104 closed near North River
Update: As of 10:39 p.m. the Hwy. 104 westbound lane is now fully open and both lanes of Hwy. 311 are open. The eastbound lane of Hwy. 104 remained closed when RCMP made that announcement but they anticipated it would reopen within an hour of their 10:39 p.m. update. RCMP have closed a section of Highway 104 after a truck hauling an excavator struck an overpass. According to a tweet from RCMP both Hwy. 311 and Hwy. 104 near North River (Distance Marker 111) are closed in both directions.
Update: Highway 104 closed near North River
Update: As of 10:39 p.m. the Hwy. 104 westbound lane is now fully open and both lanes of Hwy. 311 are open. The eastbound lane of Hwy. 104 remained closed when RCMP made that announcement but they anticipated it would reopen within an hour of their 10:39 p.m. update. RCMP have closed a section of Highway 104 after a truck hauling an excavator struck an overpass. According to a tweet from RCMP both Hwy. 311 and Hwy. 104 near North River (Distance Marker 111) are closed in both directions.
Lunenburg considers using town land for new daycare centre
The Town of Lunenburg wants to help the Lunenburg Day Care Centre as they continue to work towards building a new facility. In a release sent out by the town on Thursday, they indicated they are considering using town-owned land for a new mixed-use daycare and recreation building at the recreation complex (located off Victoria Road). That area is home to many amenities the town believes would complement a daycare centre, like parks, playgrounds, ballfields and nearby schools.
Lunenburg considers using town land for new daycare centre
The Town of Lunenburg wants to help the Lunenburg Day Care Centre as they continue to work towards building a new facility. In a release sent out by the town on Thursday, they indicated they are considering using town-owned land for a new mixed-use daycare and recreation building at the recreation complex (located off Victoria Road). That area is home to many amenities the town believes would complement a daycare centre, like parks, playgrounds, ballfields and nearby schools.
Three ships leaving LaHave River to be dismantled on site
The three abandoned vessels being removed from the LaHave River will be dismantled on-site to reduce the risk of environmental contamination. The Coast Guard will be on-site for six months monitoring RJ MacIssac Construction who were awarded the contract to remove pollutants and dismantle the vessels.
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