ChesterNS.ca - Blog

Bhakti Yogi Fr. Joe Pereira Public Talk

2011-09-14T10:39:00.002-03:00

In Chester NS
Friday September 16th presentation on Kripa Foundation
7 to 9 pm (by free-will donation)
Chester St Stephen’s Parish Hall, King & Regent St

ALL WELCOME

registration not required

Father Joe Pereira, renowned senior Iyengar yoga teacher from India, has an extraordinary story, including his close work with Mother Teresa. Fr. Joe say’s that Mother Teresa is his left hand and Yogacharya BKS Iyengar is his right. He travels internationally each fall to raise awareness for the over 50 addiction recovery and AIDS treatment centres he has founded and administers across India. His talks are animated and inspiring.

Fr. Joe will be leading a yoga workshop in Chester September 16th – 18th, please join us Friday evening to learn about his wonderful charity work.

ALL PROCEDES GO TO KRIPA

www.kripafoundation.org
For info: 902-273-YOGA

LIGHTING "THE GOOD DOCTOR"

2011-04-27T16:48:00.009-03:00

Every show has its technical challenges I suppose, but when the production moves to a different venue with each performance, and the venues themselves are designed to hold meetings, dances or Sunday schools, the challenges rise exponentially.

For one thing, you have to bring in lighting equipment, and because you're moving in--and out--each night, it has to be portable . . . and easy to carry. Your "stage" changes with the dimensions of the hall: sometimes you're on the floor, sometimes in front of bulletin boards fastened to the wall, and always, you're having to cope with natural light streaming in through far too many windows. The set too must be portable, and minimal. And the actors' costumes are another variable; in "The Good Doctor" the actors wear a lot of black and they change costumes with each new scene.

What to do? Director Andre Haines and Producer Laurel Darnell approached George Gore whose lighting skills have been best described by Kerry Keddy of chesterns.ca: "George could light a show with a match."

In fact, George hasn't used a great deal more than a match. And he doesn't need to. When he described the lighting requirements for "Three Penny Opera," Bertold Brecht said, "It should be staged as a poor company doing its best." Andre Haines wants a similar effect. Since "The Good Doctor" is Neil Simon's tribute to Anton Chekhov, Haines asked George for a lighting design that would approximate early 20th century lighting--footlights and toplights--and make it obvious to the audience that they are in a theatre.

So George went about building footlights, and, thanks to the generosity of The Mahone Bay Seniors Project, acquired rudimentary par cans on stands run by a small 12-channel board. The result is often stunning.

"The Good Doctor," with sponsorship from the Chester Drama Society, will be travelling to a theatre/venue near you: Opening night is April 28 at the Atlantica Hotel Oak Island; April 29, Blockhouse Waldorf School; April 30, Trinity United Church, Mahone Bay; May 6, Chester United Baptist Church; May 13, Lunenburg Academy, and May 20-21, Martin's River Fire Hall.

CVFD HOSTS NOVA SCOTIA FIRE SCHOOL TRAINING

2011-04-20T16:21:00.006-03:00

The MBU (Mobile Burn Unit) training trailer was set up behind the Chester Fire Hall.

Gearing up. Whether training or on a real fire call,firefighters use the buddy system.

Chester firefighter and Nova Scotia Firefighter's School instructor Everett Hiltz signals for the next group of trainees to come over as CVFD firefighter Steve Wagoner watches over his shoulder.

Out of the firetruck and into the fire ! You can just make out the group of trainees to the left of the large flame. This photo was taken through the window of the control room.

Here we see the control panel of the computerized training unit.

Back to the cool outdoors.

Steve Wagoner, 2'nd Lieutenant Engine Company was manning the pumps for the evening. The Chester Volunteer Fire Department provided two pumpers that were required to run the program.

Blandford Volunteer Fire Department's rescue unit brought their firefighters to Chester for the evening training session.

Apr. 13'th, Chester...............................For about a week there was a lot of activity behind the Chester Fire Hall as the Chester Volunteer Fire Department hosted the Nova Scotia Firefighter's School Mobile Burn Unit.This gave firefighters from area fire departments an easier way to obtain training and certification renewal without having to travel to the main Fire School in Waverly.
The mobile training unit is a $500,000 marvel for modern fire suppression training and safety techniques for Nova Scotia firefighters. There are two such units. One on mainland Nova Scotia and one in Cape Breton.
It should be noted that two paid instructors travel with the unit and one of them is CVFD'S own Everett Hiltz. Everett travels with the Mobile Burn Unit training firefighters throughout mainland Nova Scotia.
On Apr. 9'th and 10'th a Fire Control certification course was held in Chester with all seven Municipal volunteer fire departments participating.

AND THEN THERE WERE THREE...GERALD KEDDY DECLINES LOCAL DEBATE

2011-04-19T14:53:00.005-03:00

South Shore-St. Margaret's Conservative Party of Canada candidate Gerald Keddy seen here at a Chester Municipal Chamber of Commerce event.

Apr.19'th,Chester...................................It appears official. Conservative candidate Gerald Keddy
is refusing to participate in the Village of Chester Tourism and Development Association's Meet The Candidates Event. The event is scheduled for April 27'th at 7:00 p.m. at the Chester Legion. On March 29'th three candidates (NDP,Liberal and Conservative) were invited to attend the event. A Green candidate was invited later on in the campaign. A spokesman for Gerald Keddy contacted event organizer Kerry Keddy of VOCTADA on April 10'th citing schedule conflicts as the reason. Mr. Keddy also spoke with Gerald as he left the Chester-St. Margaret's Progressive Conservative Association AGM on Apr. 16'th in Chester and he reiterated his stance saying that he was too busy.

Kerry Keddy says this is the first time that a candidate has refused to appear for any reason as long as V.O.C.T.A.D.A. has been hosting such events. The idea was hatched at a V.O.C.T.A.D.A. meeting years ago when Chester resident Duncan McNeill was Chairman of the group. As voters did not seem engaged in the issues or in some cases didn't know who the candidates were, members of V.O.C.T.A.D.A. decided to sponsor and host "Meet The Candidates" events in Chester.
The group does it for all levels of Government,especially when there are two or more candidates running for a position in their respective level of Government. The event is not so much for the candidates as it is for citizens to become aware and engaged in the issues and to encourage them to get out and vote.

Side note: As of press time the Conservative Party of Canada candidate for South Shore-St. Margaret's, Gerald Keddy declined The Public Service Alliance of Canada All Candidates' Forum in Bridgewater this evening and an All Candidates event at Sir John A. MacDonald High School in Tantallon earlier in the day.

SOUTH SHORE ST. MARGARET'S ELECTION 2011 : WHO'S WHO

2011-04-19T13:56:00.004-03:00

Kris MacLellan, Green Party candidate canvassing at the Chester Post Office.

Gordon Earle, New Democratic Party candidate at the C.A.M.S. Farmers Market, meeting a couple of students.

Gerald Keddy ,Conservative Party of Canada candidate speaks at the Chester-St. Margaret's Progressive Conservative Association's AGM in Chester.

Derek Wells, Liberal Party of Canada candidate at a Liberal campaign event in Chester.

Apr. 19'th,Chester--------------------Know your candidate. With just over a dozen days left in the 2011 Election campaign, we thought we would bring you this article.

The Common Election Candidate is a unique species in Canada because it tends to become very active when there is great political unrest in its habitat.
The Common Election Candidate lives in a species group known as a Party.
There are five major species in Canada with approximately nine lesser or endangered ones.
The five major ones are the Conservatives with blue and red plumage,The Liberals featuring red plumage,The New Democrats displaying orange and green plumage, the Green Party with green plumage,of course and there is the Bloc Quebecois which shows a light blue plumage. TheBloc Quebecois is a regional species and exists in in own homeland of Quebec,straying only as far as Ottawa in its unique struggle for political superiority.

You can spot a Common Election Candidate by its colourful plumage and signage which it gets the urge to show when campaigning.

Seen usually in Ottawa and traveling throughout Canada when a particular species is in power,
the Common Election Candidate migrates to its own home riding in an aggressive attempt to become the dominant member of government for its own Party.
To conserve and protect the Common Election Candidate, one should get out and listen to them at party or non-partisan events. You may even donate time and money to the various species. A fortunate few can be saved by going out to the polls on election day and casting your vote for one of them.
To find out more about the Common Election Candidate and their Parties,visit a local all- candidates event in or near your community.

If you can't save a particular Party,you just might be able to save our country.

MEET THE CANDIDATES

2011-04-19T07:44:00.004-03:00

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

(Click on image to enlarge)

On-Going Casting Call for Haven - April through August

2011-04-18T07:57:00.000-03:00

THIS IS A PAID ADVERTISEMENT

Ballyhoo Casting Company will be casting Background Performers for the television series "Haven" until mid August. If you are interested in potential work as a Background Performer, please visit our website and fill out our online submission form at www.ballyhoocastingcompany.com We are looking for people of all ages, gender and ethnicity.

'HAVEN' A TIME IN THE MARITIMES

2011-04-17T09:15:00.002-03:00

SATURDAY, APRIL 16 - Residents of Chester and the cast and crew of the television series Haven (SyFy and Showcase) were out in full force supporting their colleague and co-worker, Eric Balfour (Twitter, IMDB) who plays the resident "bad boy", Duke Crocker, on Haven.

Chester's Living Room (aka The Fo'c'sle) hosted the event and Eric kept the bodies moving on the dance floor with a mix of soul, R&B, and classics from the 70s and 80's.

It's great to see the cast and crew of Haven out and about in Chester and getting involved in and being part of our community. We hope that this is the first of many successful, entertaining and fun evenings had while season 2 is being filmed!

Here are a few pics and videos from the night:

Pic posted by Emily Rose (aka Audrey Parker)

Behind the DJ Booth

Youtube Video #1 - Please note that an adjective often used to express excitement is used to describe Nova Scotia in the title of this Youtube video and may offend some people.

Youtube Video #2

C.A.M.S. SPRING FARMER'S MARKET

2011-04-15T11:28:00.001-03:00

A reminder to check out the Spring Farmer's Market fundraiser for Chester Area Middle School.
A great way to kick off the Spring season.

IT IS IMPORTANT THAT YOU VOTE

2011-04-14T19:44:00.006-03:00

It seems the English Leaders' debate did not do much of a job in engaging voters. The French Leaders' debate was a little more lively. But then that is how the media "spun" it. The problem is that the media does not vote nor should it be controlling the issues. How about an in-depth investigative report on low voter turnout and voter apathy.
Maybe we need a little shock and humour. Like Jim Lahey's Get Out To Vote video for The Saint Mary's University Students' Association.
We will warn you that there is language that some might find offensive.

If you think that it's a little strong then we also include a more civil,polite and perhaps a little stuffier and ,more Canadian-like clip from Canada's Chief Electoral Officer,Marc Maryand on the importance of the right to vote.

Both men are right. You should vote. And it is not just young voters who are at fault. A lot of older voters are apathetic and uncaring. Democracy is at stake not because of the political principles and issues being bantered about by the parties,their leaders and the candidates. It is at stake because we the voters are not turning out in large numbers to control democracy and the parties that are supposed to represent it.

On May 2'nd,2011 exercise your right to vote.
Not because Jim Lahey or Marc Maryand say you should.

Because you are a Canadian and it is your right.

Page 2 Fixed

2011-04-13T20:43:00.000-03:00

The View Next 5 stories link at the bottom of our home page is now fixed and displaying the next 5 latest stories.

Less than 1 week until the Matrix is revealed...

Aspotogan Loop Open House

2011-04-12T09:55:00.005-03:00

Last Saturday afternoon at the Mill Cove Consolidated School the strategy for the enhancement of the Aspotogan Loop (comprising Route 329 and Trunk 3) was unveiled at a public open house. On display were booklets detailing the strategy to see the facilitation of a public road for safe active living & active transportation. That includes cycling and also walking. The need stems from the beauty, terrain, and length of the loop which draws people out to enjoy the scenery and the joys of exercise. The ever-growing population of the area and the popularity of Hwy 329 brings more varied traffic into risky encounters. RECAP believes the safety risks can be addressed to the benefit of both travellers and to the communities along the Loop. There is also the expectation that some of the recommendations will actually reduce the long term maintenance costs of the Loop.

In the picture left to right are Alec Johnston, Bruce Mans and Steve Betts, the Dalhousie students who were engaged by the Route Enhancement Committee of the Aspotogan Penninsula (RECAP) to consult and lay out the strategy. They are chatting with Municipal Active Living Coordinator, Gordon Tate.

RECAP's web page is: http://aspotoganloop.wordpress.com

C.A.M.S. Spring Farmer's Market

2011-04-11T19:14:00.000-03:00

Click on image to enlarge.

IT'S OFFICIAL -MacLELLAN IS GREEN CANDIDATE FOR SOUTH SHORE-St. MARGARET'S

2011-04-10T20:24:00.007-03:00

South Shore-St. Margaret's Green Party candidate Kris MacLellan takes in the view from the Chester bandstand.

Kris MacLellan is ready to head off on the campaign trail................

but not before stopping to reflect at the Chester War Memorial.

Kris MacLellan left one of his party's campaign signs at the Valley Road and Highway 3 intersection. In the next few weeks MacLellan will be traveling from one end of Route 3 to the other as he seeks the Green vote.

Apr. 10'th,Chester---------------------It was a warm and sunny spring afternoon in Chester and while down at the Parade Square we caught South Shore-St. Margaret's Green Party Candidate Kris MacLellan surveying this end of the riding. He was on his way back from filing his nomination papers in Bridgewater and was putting up Green Party signs on his way back through the riding.
MacLellan will have a tough campaign as he is in about 2 weeks late after the official election call. He plans to attend various community events throughout South Shore-St. Margaret's campaigning in the days leading up to the election on May 2'nd.

BREAKTIME : SAILING ON HALIFAX'S NORTHWEST ARM

2011-04-10T19:34:00.012-03:00

The view from The Saraguay Club.

With the docks all but empty,The Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron is easily visible from the edge of the farthest dock.

The race is on. This pair of J-22'S were tacking up and down just off the Squadron. Enjoy the following sequence of photos.

Apr.9'th, Halifax-------------------While on an errand down the Purcell's Cove Road after the Rally for Democracy we thought we caught a glimpse of a sail on the water. There were no boats off the Armdale Yacht Club so it was off to the Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron where we found a pair of J-22's and their crews having a pleasant springtime sail. It was a refreshing break after all the politics.
In a few more weeks we should see sail boats out around Chester. For now we bring you the above scenes to get you in the mood for sailing.

GREENS RALLY FOR DEMOCRACY IN HALIFAX

2011-04-10T08:05:00.014-03:00

A small crowd begins to gather at Sackville Landing waiting to hear Green Party of Canada Leader Elizabeth May speak.

Famed Nova Scotia Composer and Musician Scott MacMillan entertains the crowd with his banjo.

Shortly after arriving,Green Party Leader Elizabeth May gets caught up in the media swarm.

Author Silver Donald Cameron while not a Green Party supporter, supports May's efforts for fair democracy. He Introduced her at the event.

South Shore St.-Margaret's Green candidate Kris MacLellan poses with his Party Leader.

Elizabeth may begins her speech with her Nova Scotia candidates behind her.

Around 150 people gathered for the event on a warm Spring day at Sackville Landing.

Well known environmentalist Martin "Rudy" Haase was in the crowd,seen here gently hugging a tree. Haase and May go way back with their mutual efforts to preserve nature, especially in Nova Scotia.

Democracy is like a wave. Some stand by unaware and uninterested. Some struggle to climb its slope. And some actually make it to the top and ride it out. Where will you fit in during this election? We need a tsunami of support for democracy in Canada, not a ripple.

It is interesting to note that while May is presently shut out of the televised National Leaders debate by "The Media Consortium" ( CBC,CTV,Global and TVA) , she was certainly the woman in the spotlight at her Rally for Democracy event in Halifax on Saturday. Er,that's a big camera you have there CBC.
Where is Joseph Howe when we need him ?

May carries on with her speech as South Shore-St. Margaret's Green candidate,Kris MacLellan looks on.

Kris MacLellan is the first candidate to congratulate May after her speech.

Apr.9'th,Halifax------------------------It was a perfect Spring day at Sackville Landing on the Halifax waterfront. And things were starting to green up literally and figuratively,or should we say politically in Nova Scotia's capital city. The big Green Machine rolled into town for their Rally For Democracy event. While most leaders could focus on their parties' platforms and the typical election issues,Green Leader Elizabeth May has been forced to campaign strongly on a fundamental right that has become an issue in this election. Democracy.

Because of a consortium made up of "BIG MEDIA",May has been shut out of the National Leaders debate. They have stated their reasons,but can they or anyone control the true process of democracy ? Ideals are ideals. In many countries people lay down their lives for it while in Canada we barely speak out about it or stand up for it. Why we let the media dictate many of our political scenarios is puzzling. Canadians must make their own choices by their own reasoning and not take media reports as necessarily the facts. There are some good stories and media about politics and its people but there is also a lot of bias and sensationalizing by many of the writers and reporters in the media industry.

Again,for Elizabeth May,the "Consortium" has forced her on somewhat of a diversion on the campaign trail. The other parties can canvass on their parties's platforms and national issues, while May's major effort has been dealing with the fall-out from the decision not to include her in the National televised debate. In 2011,should we still be caught up in such issues as the fundamentals of democracy when there are much more pressing and immediate issues to deal with ? Joseph Howe would be stunned both as a politician and a journalist. It is ironic that such an event dealing with politics and the media was taking place in the city of his birth,Halifax.

Another interesting observation during the event was the apparent absence of security around the Green Party Leader. There was no "friendly police officer" standing around or even a police car in the area. Elizabeth May was very accessible for comments,handshakes and hugs. No handlers and wranglers with a wall of security like the "Big Three" parties have around them.

FIRST BOATERS OF THE SEASON IN CHESTER ?

2011-04-09T18:14:00.004-03:00

It's early Saturday morning with a light skim of ice on Chester's Front Harbour but still a nice morning on the water. These fellows were likely heading out to do a little recreational fishing.

This "Good Doctor" Makes House Calls!

2011-04-09T15:45:00.012-03:00

Producing community theatre is what the Chester Drama Society has always done, but this spring, it's embarking on a new journey: Outreach Theatre--bringing theatre to where you live.

Recently, Laurel Darnell and Andre Haines pitched the idea to CDS of going beyond a one-production/one-venue of the Neil Simon comedy "The Good Doctor" by taking it on the road to various communities in Lunenburg County. Now the show is in rehearsal, and everyone's energies are directed to Opening Night at the Atlantic Hotel Oak Island, Thursday, April 28.

Gavin Flinn (The Writer), George Evans (The Policeman) and Barry Redmond (The Drowned Man) ham it up for the camera in this scene from "The Good Doctor."

Written by Neil Simon, "The Good Doctor" is a series of nine comedic scenes, all based on the short stories of Anton Chekhov. Like Conan Doyle, Chekhov wrote to support his medical studies, and always regarded himself as a better doctor than writer. Simon refers to Chekhov as the good doctor, but it's Chekhov's stories, not his medical skills, that this collection celebrates.

Andre Haines directs Barry Redmond and Gavin Flinn, while Stage Manager, Sue Evans, keeps everyone on book.

Following its opening on April 28 at the Atlantica Hotel Oak Island in Western Shore, "The Good Doctor" will move on to Blockhouse's Waldorf School on April 29, Trinity United Church in Mahone Bay on April 30, Chester United Baptist Church on May 6, Lunenburg Academy on May 13, and Martin's River Fire Hall on May 20, 21. Laurel points out that each host is using the show as a fund-raiser; audiences will get the twin benefits of enjoying themselves while supporting good causes in their own communities.

Donna Whitford continues as make-up mistress to the stars as she adjusts one of the many hats worn by actor/producer Laurel Darnell.

Moving from venue to venue will stretch Lighting Director George Gore's creativity, but he did wonders with a slide projector and screen in last summer's "The Last World Tour" making the visuals one of the highlights of that show. Just as usual, Erin Gore will provide wonderfully appropriate costumes for the cast.

There's Spring in the Step of CDS

2011-04-08T19:07:00.005-03:00

There was lots of energy in the room at the Chester Drama Society's AGM on March 15 at the Chester United Baptist Church Hall. Leading the way was the election of a new slate of officers: President Tom Myers and Treasurer Judy Parsons remained from last year's executive; they were joined by newcomers Laurel Darnell as Vice-President and Dave Major as Secretary.

Laurel Darnell is well known for her talent as an actor, having performed on the Playhouse stage in "The Garage Sale," "Life Skills" and "A Brief History of Chester (may contain nuts)." She's even better known in her home of Mahone Bay where she's starred in musical comedies "The Rumrunner's Ball" and "The Last World Tour" written by husband Reid Campbell. What's less well known about Laurel is her passion to bring together quality theatre pieces and community actors, such as she's doing right now as producer of "The Good Doctor." With backing from CDS, Laurel's engaged Andre Haines to direct Neil Simon's homage to Anton Chekhov which will be performed at seven venues in Lunenburg County: community theatre travelling to communities. "The Good Doctor" will make his first house call to Chester on Friday, May 6 at the Chester United Baptist Church Hall. Stay tuned.

GREEN PARTY CANDIDATE SURFACES IN CHESTER

2011-04-07T23:43:00.007-03:00

Green Green Party candidate Kris MacLellan greets a Chester resident on the Post Office steps at noon on Wednesday. MacLellan was canvassing for nomination signatures to become an official candidate. Apr. 6'th Chester-----------------------It looks like the Greens will have a candidate in South Shore- St. Margaret's if they can get the paperwork done on time. The deadline is next Tuesday. With only about 3 weeks left in the campaign there is not a lot of time left to win the hearts and minds of most voters but Kris MacLellan is a young and enthusiastic candidate. He is originally from the Tantallon area but now resides in Halifax.He has run for office on two other occasions. The Greens already have their work cut out for them with their leader Elizabeth May being excluded from the national televised "All Party Leaders Debate". It will be interesting to see how their parachute candidate Kris MacLellan will fare in the riding of South Shore St. Margaret's come election day.

WELLS WAITS FOR WITHERS,WITHERS WAITS FOR WELLS

2011-04-07T21:27:00.008-03:00

CBC reporter Paul Withers looks on as his cameraman shoots a little scenic footage while South Shore-St. Margaret's Liberal candidate Derek Wells waits in the background.

Now Mr. Withers must wait while Mr. Wells does a little campaigning.

Finally the interview gets under way on Union Street as Derek Wells answers
a question from Paul Withers.

Apr.6'th,Chester-------------------------Here we go. Politics and the media. The bucolic riding of South Shore-St. Margaret's is caught up in another Federal Election. Thanks to The Globe And Mail,Canada's national newspaper, our riding is one of the "50 to watch". The Conservatives won the last election by barely 1,000 votes. With Harper's latest stunts and scandals notwithstanding, it would seem that incumbent Gerald Keddy would already have a tough battle on his hands. Especially with the Contempt of Parliament charge against the Harper led Conservatives.

Our riding is is one of the four largest in Nova Scotia. The lifestyles and concerns of the people living in it are as diverse as the geography and industries that carry on in the riding. For this reason alone it is a tough riding for the constituents to agree on supporting a particular candidate or party. Everybody's caught up in their own legitimate or self serving issues while democracy and integrity fall by the wayside.
We should be able to figure it out for ourselves without the media pushing into the foray.
It is interesting to note that of the "50 to watch" The Globe put us as number 50.
Would Mr. Withers even be in Chester if not for The Globe story ?

As voters,let us decide for ourselves who we will support and why. If you listen to the media you could change your vote daily depending on what they choose as the lead story about a particular party or candidate.

This time around it is about you, the voter.
Exercise your right on May 2'nd,2011.

HEALTHY SOUP IN CHESTER

2011-04-07T20:10:00.008-03:00

Dr. Joy Calkin begins her talk on community health issues.

The audience listens to Joy's interesting and informative presentation.

Apr. 6'th,Chester--------------------------Along with a serving of great soup to feed the body,St. Stephen's Lenton Soup Luncheons are also an opportunity to feed your mind. There were 5 great homemade soups to choose from. The speaker this week was Chester's Dr. Joy Calkin, whom most of you will all know as Joy. Joy Calkin is an amazing volunteer in the Chester area on many fronts but her major passion is community health. This interest stems from her years of experience working on health issues as a nurse. She really knows her stuff as she holds a Masters Degree in Nursing and she is a Ph.D in Health Systems Design.

It should be mentioned that Joy dedicated her speech to Glady Hack who was a Public Health Nurse who lived and practiced in Chester for many years. Glady was kind to many people whether through volunteering or offering to those in need, food and other necessities.

She now resides at Shoreham Village Nursing Home.

Dr. Calkin brought the audience of about 70 people up to speed on the present state of our community health system, the emergency response service and our hospitals. Our EHS system is one of the best in North America if not the world.

Much of her talk was centered around the new Healthy Community Resource Centre. This will be a Municipality wide facility built in Chester. It will provide space for up to 6 doctors and 2 nurse practitioners There will be other services offered as well along with a "Flexi-space" for programs like yoga and exercise. No service that already exists will be duplicated.

Dr. Calkin told the listeners to watch out for meetings about the new facility to be announced this summer as the group working on the project travels around the municipality to seek input from area residents and to inform them about the benefits of the facility.

There is one more luncheon left in the series next Wednesday.

CHESTER COUNCIL ADOPTS STREET : FARMERS MARKET HAS A HOME

2011-04-07T09:36:00.006-03:00

Parade Square Road looking westward. It is bleak and deserted in late winter.

The view east. Soon, the Chester Farmers Market,Chester Yacht Club and Band Concerts will bring the area back to life.

Click on the above image to enlarge for more details about the Chester Farmers Market.

Apr. 6'th,Chester--------------------------After lobbying and patiently negotiating with various levels of Government,members of The Chester Farmers Market Committee are thankful for Chester Municipal Council adopting Parade Square Road. The area was home to the Farmers Market last summer. To use the space,the Farm Market Committee had to get special permission from the Department Of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal to close down the street on Friday afternoons for vendors and shoppers to safely use the area. The street had been under Provincial ownership and this year DOTIR did not want to renew permits this season if the street was under their control.

Council officially made the decision on Mar. 31'st. Councilor Brad Armstrong (District 7 and The Village of Chester) was a strong advocate for the market. Along with the Farmers Market there are many other activities that happen on the site. It will now be easier to hold functions on the site by dealing with the Municipality instead of DOTIR. Band Concerts,Chester Race Week,Opti Jam,Remembrance Day and possibly weddings could carry on safely and more easily.

It should be made clear that the road will not be permanently blocked at this point. Only with approval from the Municipality will the area be closed for special events and activities. This morning,the area and another section of street were shut down for filming of the Haven Production. This street is one of the more dangerous ones in the Village. It is not a very long street but the intersections at either end cause visibility and traffic flow problems. The preferred safe route to and from The Peninsula is along Peninsula Road directly through the T-intersection with South and Central streets. Even the Chester Volunteer Fire Department uses this route as their preferred way to respond to Peninsula emergencies,according to Fire Chief Leo "Duke" Chafe.

Stay tuned for more news on The Chester Farmers Market in the near future.

WAITING FOR IGNATIEFF IN HALIFAX

2011-04-04T08:49:00.028-03:00

The Chronicle Herald photographer (left) chats with Ignatieff's media wranglers as a security man looks on. The CBC's remote broadcasting unit is set up and ready. The media bus arrives and reporters and photographers grab their gear and scramble off to the Halifax Westin. Minutes later,the man of the hour, Michael Ignatieff steps off of his bus. We get a friendly confident wave from Mr. Ignatieff as he and his wife Zsuzsanna walk to the side entrance. Ignatieff enters the building. Local Liberal candidate Derek Wells and his wife Allison head for the main rally room. Michael and Szuzsanna arrive shaking hands and chatting as they go. The Liberal Leader greets the Halifax crowd...... and gets on with the platform launch speech. At least a thousand people were gathered to hear Ignatieff speak. Chester resident and South Shore-St. Margaret's Liberal candidate Derek Wells listens intently. The Nova Scotia Federal Liberal candidates stand behind their leader. Mr. Ignatieff pauses and then carries on with his speech. Zsuzsanna Zsohar smiles as she reacts to her husband's speech. Mr.Ignatieff makes a final point as he ends his speech. Apr. 3'rd, Halifax-------------------------On Thursday it was Stephen Harper with a small group of invited guests, and the media behind a fence at the stark, industrial Halterm container terminal. On Saturday it was Jack Layton at the Dartmouth Sportsplex with about 400 supporters. A somewhat warmer and more comfortable spot for a major political function. And he was friendlier with the press. Unless you were in the " loop" there was not much notice of the Harper function but the NDP and Liberal events were posted in advance of their Leaders' arrivals in the Halifax papers. And so off we went to see if we could get close and get some pictures of a big time political event. It made sense for chesterns.ca to cover the Liberal function because of the "Chester connection". The Liberal candidate for South Shore-St. Margaret's is Derek Wells who lives in Chester. The first item of note was the location. The Westin Halifax Hotel is a much more comfortable venue than a container terminal or a sports complex. There was a lot of "undercover" security around Mr. Ignatieff but it was reasonably low key. One would think that the Mounties guarding Ignatieff would be a little more jumpier than those on the Harper detail as just about anyone could get close and shake hands or chat with the Liberal Leader. We spent a little time in the main conference room. It was getting warm and crowded real fast. And there was an overwhelming sense that this was not going to begin at the 6:30 p.m. start time. And if it did, it would just be luck to get a few good photos. After speaking with a few of the handlers, security people and media wranglers, you realized that Mr. Ignatieff was still in transit. It was interesting that those we questioned would not say too much. Just bits and pieces that when put together, told the story. Off to the main entrance. The fresh air was great. The only other camera there was with the guy from the Chronicle Herald. The CBC mobile truck sat quietly down at the end of the building. And then it happened. The handlers and security people began to buzz about as a large motor coach pulled up to the entrance. A false alert as it was the media bus with all the national press reporters and photographers. They had barely made it into the Westin when a second bus that was waiting around the corner pulled up. This was the one. The door opened and out stepped Michel Ignatieff. There were hardly any security people around.This was happening fast ! We got an okay photo of the Liberal leader. His wife Zsuzanna then stepped off the bus and we got a great photo of them as they headed for their entrance. There was a short break and then security moved to their positions as Mr. Ignatieff and the media entourage made their way up the stairs and in to the stage area of the Commonwealth room. The noise was deafening from the cheering and the beating of thunderstick noise makers. We rode in on the media surge and got reasonably close to the stage. If not for that,the rest of the pictures would not have been very good. In terms of Mr. Ignatieff's speech there were the usual election issues of education, health, taxes, jobs ,etc.,etc. but two of his strong points were the mention of Harper's 2002 remark " I think in Atlantic Canada, because of what happened in the decades following confederation, there's a culture of defeat that we have to overcome...Atlantic Canada's culture of defeat will be hard to overcome as long as Atlantic Canada is actually physically trailing the rest of the country." This remark never did sit well with folks around here and it still doesn't. We live in a great part of the country. If anything we just don't like to brag or show off. The other great point Ignatieff made was regarding Joseph Howe. "We are one mile from my favourite statue in Canada," he said. "Howe fought to establish freedom of the press for all Canadians," Ignatieff said. "For all those media guys at the back, all those scribblers and screed writers there, are free to say whatever they like about tonight's meeting." A friendlier attitude towards the media than Harper keeping them penned up and restricted to 5 questions a day. Speaking more on Joseph Howe as the father of responsible government in Canada, Ignatief quoted Howe: " The Prime Minister has to be accountable to Parliament." Mr. Ignatieff continued, "The first government in the British Empire that was really democratic was here." Mr. Ignatieff said that Harper is not living up to the ideals of Joseph Howe with such debacles as prorogation and contempt of Parliament. "In Atlantic Canada there are the best traditions of Canadian political freedom,"Ignatieff said. "We are here to defend those principles. And it is really simple,folks. You don't shut down Parliament when you disagree with it. You don't withhold documents from your elected representatives." These last two points are the reason for the story. Atlantic Canada is a wonderful part of Canada and the world and we at chesterns.ca are grateful to Mr. Joseph Howe for being instrumental in allowing us to tell you about it. Footnote: On May 2'nd exercise your right to vote. Apathy is the enemy of democracy.

CHESTER SHOWS AT THE IDEAL HOME SHOW

2011-04-04T08:36:00.009-03:00

Walter Downey from nearby Marriott's Cove was on hand displaying his metal work for the garden and sign display applications for civic address numbers.

Jane Wentzell of Invisible Fence had a booth at the show. A lot of dogs are safe around Chester thanks to Jane's business.

Shane Wamboldt of UberHome is busy on his smartphone as their new salesman Jess Carter looks on. Jess will be serving the Chester and Southshore area for UberHome.

Chester Building Supplies was featured at the Castle Building Centres booth. The business is locally owned.

Habitations International from nearby Hubbards had a booth that displayed their styles
of manufactured house kits. They have been selling their products internationally for over 35 years.

Gardening expert and author Nikki Jabbour is no stranger to Chester. She is seen here preparing for her presentation "Amazing Edibles" for a backyard kitchen garden.

Local Re-Max agent Peter Reeves was manning the booth promoting his Gold River manufactured homes. They are located at Exit 9 Chester Basin where many of their homes are on display.

While not from Chester,Ben Perry and All Green Tree Care had one of the most interesting and attention getting displays at the show.

Hangin' out at the All Green Tree Care Display.

Apr. 2'nd, Halifax--------------------------Even though it is Spring the weather was not cooperating with homeowners wanting to get started on outdoor home improvements or landscaping. It was, however, the kind of weather to get folks out to the 2011 Ideal Home Show at Exhibition Park near Halifax. Hundreds of booths and displays featured everything from foundation systems and materials to lumber and roofing products. And everything in between. Doors and windows,plumbing fixtures,kitchens,siding and flooring,heating and cooling systems,landscaping products and even Murphy beds.

In terms of attendance,this year's show was one of the largest. One exhibitor said folks were lined up to get in on Saturday morning.
Whether you're building new or renovating there was something for everyone at the show.
We thought we would mention all the Chester and area businesses we saw at the show.

SIGNS OF SPRING IN CANADA ?

2011-04-04T07:53:00.003-03:00

"Sign,sign,everywhere a sign
Blockin' out the scenery,breakin' my mind......."

(From "Signs". A 1970's song by The Five Man Electrical Band)

Apr.2'nd,Chester-----------------------------By now it is obvious that we are in the throes of another National election as campaign signs are springing up all over our Village,the Municipality and the Country. The Five Man Electrical Band's song was written back in the day of social and political change with a theme of intolerance and exclusion. Who says history doesn't repeat itself ? These are some of the broader issues in this election.
It is kind of ironic. The Five Man Electrical Band was a 60's and 70's rock and roll band from Ottawa and some of it's members are still active today.

The election campaign is about another band that doesn't necessarily play together.The Four Man 1 Woman Political Band also based out of Ottawa consists of the leaders of Canada's five main political parties. They are on a national cross country tour promoting their Parties' campaign platforms. Harper for the Conservatives,Ignatieff for the Liberals,Layton for the NDP ,May for the Greens and Duceppe for the Bloc Quebecois.

While the hardcore and enthusiastic political junkies will follow the campaign and listen to the musings and speeches of the leaders and our local candidates,chesterns.ca encourages all who are old enough and have the right to vote,to get out,get engaged and exercise your right to vote.
More than ever that is one of the key points that this election is about. Forget the promises of tax breaks,education funding,defense spending,energy strategies,etc..........

Democracy in Canada has been suffering . The politicians are unable or unwilling to fix it.
Perhaps the people of our great Country will rise to the occasion and get us back on track.

It's Coming....

2011-04-02T20:07:00.002-03:00

What is the Matrix?

MIND YOUR MIND : EXERCISE YOUR BRAIN

2011-03-27T23:00:00.003-03:00

(CLICK ON POSTER TO ENLARGE)

Mar.27'th,Chester......................................The folks at The Chester Art Centre are bringing an interesting and excellent program to Chester to educate you on how to deal with the effect that aging has on your brain. You will learn what happens as you age and there will be programs offered to help you deal with the issues and effects of aging as it affects your brain's functioning.Here are the details in the Chester Art Centre press release.

Chester Art Centre Brain Fitness program kicks off April 5, 2011

Film star Bette Davis said it best: “Old age is not for sissies.” Hair thins, knees, hips and other joints wear down and wrinkles appear where the baby fat used to be. But what happens to an aging brain?

That’s what the Chester Art Centre will be exploring in a new program called “Brain Fitness: Lifelong Learning through the Creative Arts.”
It kicks off April 5th with a free public forum at the Chester Playhouse at 7:00 pm where noted neuroscientists Dr. Gail Eskes and Dr. Ivar Mendez will share the latest scientific and medical findings from Dalhousie University’s Brain Repair Centre. The Brain Repair Centre (www.brainrepair.ca) is a university-hospital collaborative research centre dedicated to developing new approaches to brain health and recovery from injury or disease. They’ll bring us up to date on how the brain is affected by aging, how our cognitive abilities change as we get older and what factors can speed up or slow down this process. Their “Prescription for Successful Aging” highlights exercise and ‘cognitive engagement’ as lifestyle activities that can enhance brain function and optimize the ‘silver years’.

To connect the science with real-life experience, the doctors will be joined by a panel of three women who’ll share their own experiences with keeping their brains alert and engaged as they age.

Joan Cleather is an engaged senior. Her background is in science but she shifted gears when she retired, pursuing her flare for art, writing, music and other languages. She had her first play produced in 2010.

Janice Keefe is a professor in the Department of Family Studies and Gerontology at Mount Saint Vincent University and holds appointments at Dalhousie University’s Faculties of Medicine and Graduate Studies. She currently leads two research teams – one projecting what human resources will be needed to care for older Canadians over the next 30 years and another that works with caregivers of spouses with a cognitive impairment.

Sally Warren is a multi-tasking artist and educator. She’s worked with museums to build their education programs and created Access Art, an annual series of workshops for the sharing of ideas, skills and techniques. She also just finished an education project with Africville and still finds time to exhibit her own art at the Peer Gallery in Lunenburg.

Bring your questions and comments and join in on the discussion. In fact, we're encouraging people to bring-a-buddy, a senior friend who may not get out much and who could benefit from the kind of stimulation Dr. Eskes and Dr. Mendes are recommending.
Then sign up for the second phase of the Brain Fitness program. It’s a series of workshops designed to stimulate and regenerate the imagination offered free of charge at the Chester Art Centre starting April 14 and running through June.

The workshops include:

1) "Art Regeneration" with Malcolm Calloway
Thursdays April 14, 21, 28, May 5, 12, 19 1:30 - 4:30 pm
An introduction to painting with acrylics; a short course for beginners and intermediates. Work on still life, painting from one of your favorite photographs and your imagination. It's a hands-on look at colour and shapes and the pure fun of messing about with paint. One-on-one and group activity.

2) "Giving Old Jewels New Life" - Jewelry and More with Joan McInnes Wednesdays April 20, 27 9:30 am - 12:30 pm
Bring in your old beads, necklaces, bracelets, earrings. Re-string your favourites or add the beads to the 'pot' and design something completely new, using everyone's contributions. Give tired designs new life by complementing colors, balancing your design and finding your own creative eye.

3) "Play Outside the Box" with Katie Lee
Tuesdays April 19, 26, May 3, 10 1:30 - 4:30 pm
Get your head and hands into this four-part workshop. Have fun learning the creative techniques of collage, paper maché, mono printing and working with clay and the figure.

4) "Impressionist: Then and Now" with Professor Dr. Michael Collins and Jennie Carton
Tuesdays May 3, 10, 17, 24 9:30 am - 12:30 pm
Michael Collins will present a talk on seeing through the eyes of the French impressionists. Jennie Carton will guide you in the exploration of light, colour and subject matter of this style, creating your own work using acrylic on canvas.

5) "Photography: Point & Shoot 101" with Leslie Behie
Wednesdays May 4, 11, 18 1:30 - 4:30 pm
Even though compact in size, your digital camera has tremendous potential in many photographic situations. Bring images you have specific questions about and leave the class more technically confident to capture the images you want.

6)"Photo Album/Memory Book" with Lani Glanville
Wednesdays May 25, June 1, 8 1:30 - 4:30pm
Following photographer Leslie Behie, Lani Glanville will give three workshops creating a photo album or memory book using your favourite photos while learning simple book binding techniques.

7) "Write What You Love - Love What You Write" with Liz Crocker
Mondays May 30, June 6, 13, 20 9:30 am - 12:30 pm
This is for anyone who loves words. Whether you've always had a fantasy about producing a novel or children's story or are simply willing to play with words. Write to see what spontaneously emerges and explore your inner voice. With the help of simple exercises discover different writing formats and your natural talents.

8) "Ways with Watercolours" with Diane Wile-Brumm
Saturday June 11 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Explore watercolour techniques based on the liquid nature and possibilities of the medium, going beyond, but not excluding traditional washes and brush work. These activities are designed to help you find your own style and preferences, and are appropriate for all levels.

Pre-registration is required for all workshops.

This program is made possible with generous funding from the Federal Government's New Horizons for Seniors Program.

For more information click here

DAREDEVILS AT KILLDEVILS

2011-03-15T22:46:00.012-03:00

The water is about 10 to 12 feet higher than usual due to the rain and spring melt-off.

The first kayaker appears.

He heads for a back eddy as his friend is just coming through the gorge.

Keep your eye on the yellow kayak. The green one is still okay.

Green is still a go but yellow begins to get in trouble.

The yellow kayak has rolled.

The fellow in the yellow kayak could not recover and eventually bails farther down river. Green attempts to carry on down the river.

He gets swamped in the churning water.

The kayak flips.

Kayaker and craft disappear from site for an anxious moment.

The kayaker surfaces.

And is safely ashore.

The kayaker from the green craft (left) has just checked with his buddy and is relieved that the guy in the yellow kayak is safely ashore .

Mar. 13'th,Gold River-----------------------After a heavy rainfall and the Spring melt well underway, we take you to Gold River. Famed for its salmon fishing,gold mining and logging history,Gold River is one of Nova Scotia's more famous rivers. It may even start getting attention as a whitewater kayaking destination. Before we go on we must stress that this area is no place for amateurs. These fellows know their stuff. Proper kit and water craft,team work and the knowledge required to "read the river" was the order of the day here. Even then,this section of Gold River is treacherous. Besides all the gear,we watched as they hiked each side of the river watching the rapids,currents and eddies. They also kept a look out for overhanging and uprooted trees,limbs and other obstacles that might interfere with navigating the river. They did have to spend some time removing a small tree that had washed out over the river's edge. We will show pictures of that later.

For most locals,Killdevils and the Cumberland Pool is a favourite swimming spot when the water is lower in the summer. Even then it can be dangerous due to the currents and rocky bottom. Even a famous Prime Minister cooled off with a Summer swim there. Pierre Elliot Trudeau visited Killdevils with friends years ago.

And so a relaxing Spring stroll in woods to river watch became an opportunity to see an exciting whitewater sport. The sportsmen were from the Valley and Halifax areas. One fellow was from British Columbia.

Note: Scroll back and click on the photos to enlarge them. When you see the kayakers against the rapids you can appreciate the scale of the river's fury.

DOLLARWISE INVESTMENT ADVICE - LIFE INSURANCE

2011-03-11T18:51:00.009-04:00

Let's face it...none of us is getting out of this alive. At some point, we're all passing to the great beyond, so let's do it right!

I'm going to walk you through the basics of life insurance, and try to keep you awake at the same time (considered by some to be an impossible endeavour.) So, pour another cup of coffee, grab some toothpicks in case your eyes start to close, and let's get started!

Why Life Insurance?

We all know the obvious reason for life insurance: Protecting our loved ones in the event of our death. This protection includes paying off the mortgage so they can continue to live in the family home, eliminating debt, covering final expenses and ensuring our loved ones have adequate funds to cover costs of education and living expenses.

If you don't have family who relies on your income, life insurance can provide a "boost up" to children or grandchildren, or leave a legacy to a favourite charity or organization. It can also be used to pay the estate taxes so your beneficiary receives the full amount of money you intend to leave to them. The "boost-up" can be the best incentive. Wouldn't we all love to improve our children's future!

For business owners, life insurance can offer debt protection, liquidity and offer business succession benefits.

And did you know....Life insurance can also offer financial benefits in your lifetime! With permanent life insurance, you can draw on the cash value when business or personal opportunities arise, or for your retirement and other needs!

Stay with me folks....this is important, and will be on the exam!!!

Is all Life Insurance Created Equal?

There are three basic categories of life insurance: Term, Participating (a form of Permanent Insurance, also known as Whole Life) and Universal (also Permanent Insurance). Each has advantages and offer multiple options.

Term Insurance - Typically is for a temporary need, such as insuring your mortgage, and is most commonly taken for 10 or 20 year terms. Premiums are level for the duration of the term. There is no cash value and pays out only upon your death. If you choose 10 Yr Term Insurance, be sure it's convertible to 20 Yr and also convertible to Participating Insurance. While it is initially the least expensive type of insurance, bear in mind that premiums can increase considerably when you renew, depending upon your age at the time.

Participating Insurance - Also known as Whole Life. Premiums are higher than with Term Insurance; however, you are building cash value that you can draw on to take advantage of business or personal opportunities, use for retirement income, or to meet other needs. Typically the insurance of choice for permanent insurance, due to the wide range of options

Universal - The most flexible type of insurance, one that includes a savings component with potential for higher earnings on the savings side. Costs are usually higher than with other types of insurance and fees are up-front. There are also administrative costs. You can, however, withdraw from the cash account (savings). It offers more control in the variety of investments offered; however is quite complex to both understand and monitor. If you choose Universal, be sure you have a knowledgeable advisor and that you're willing to keep on top of it!

Value of Life Insurance During Your Lifetime

Take a look at the following images.....

What do you suppose JC Penney, Disneyland and McDonalds have in common, and what the heck does this have to do with Life Insurance?

JC Penney - James Cash Penney (now there's a money name!) almost lost his store in the crash of '29. He borrowed against his life insurance to revive his business, and we all know how successful it is today.

Disneyland - Walt Disney said, "I could never convince the financiers that Disneyland was feasible, because dreams offer too little collateral." So he borrowed against his life insurance and built his dream. By building his dream, Walt Disney has inspired the dreams of generations of children and their parents.

McDonalds - Ray Kroc bought into a drive-in restaurant business owned by two brothers. When times got tough, Ray kept the business going by borrowing against his life insurance. He eventually bought out the two brothers and created the incredible franchise we know today.

You may not aspire to a McDonalds or Disneyland-type of venture. Permanent insurance can open the doors to opportunities that fit your vision.

You now know you need Life Insurance...what's next?

Okay, I know a loud BONG would wake up a few people right about now. Let's face it, most people find life insurance to be borrrrring!!!!

Then there are those of us who find it pretty darned exciting! We see the potential of life insurance to improve lives and change the course of a family's fortune...to see the next generation have a boost up. We see businesses protected and dreams realized.

What's next for you? Find a financial advisor who knows the value of Life Insurance and who will be excited about the possibilities enough for the both of you. And maybe even make you excited about possibilities too!

thechesterinvestor@gmail.com

"the schoolyard bully" (LETTER TO THE EDITOR)

2011-03-10T23:08:00.003-04:00

To the Editor:

I wonder how many Canadians realize the threat that Stephen Harper poses to our country. Over the years we have seen, time and time again, his disregard and utter scorn for our democratic way of governing. He has acted like the schoolyard bully, wondering how much we will take before we say, "Enough". His bag of dirty tricks knows no bounds.

In the last two weeks alone, members of the Conservative Party have been shown to have mislead Parliament, used Canadian taxpayers’ money to promote Conservative attempts to gain immigrant votes in the Toronto area, and has been accused of a $1.2 million scam to break the election spending limit, and worst of all, changed the title of "The Government of Canada" to "The Harper Government". The last example shows that he has no qualms whatsoever about tossing aside our traditions. Indeed, he will do whatever it takes to promote his own political purposes. Is there any wonder that the Speaker has ruled the Harper government has breached the privileges of Parliament?

Stephen Harper is making a mockery of our Canadian sense of democracy, honesty, values and traditions. If he is allowed to continue governing, in a few years we won’t recognize our own country.

Derek Wells, Liberal Candidate South Shore- St. Margaret's
Telephone: 902-275-3544

NOTE: chesterns.ca welcomes letters and comments from the candidates of all political parties,Federal and Provincial. Municipal Councilors and Village Commissioners are also
welcome.
We also welcome comments and responses from you,the voter as well.
Letters should be 250 words or less.
We will publish submissions as received (spelling,grammar and punctuation).
chesterns.ca reserves the right to publish or not publish letters received.

CAMS BREAKFAST BLITZ

2011-03-09T07:19:00.000-04:00

The CAMS Home and School has organized a BREAKFAST BLITZ at the school in support of the breakfast program during the month of March. The breakfast program runs every morning at the school and provides extra nutrition to the students to help them make the best of their school experience. Parents were asked to bring items during the recent parent teacher meetings however, items can be brought in by anyone (parents or community members) during the month of March for the BLITZ or anytime after. Items can be placed in the BREAKFAST BOX, to be located in the school lobby.

Suggested items: Bread, juice cans or boxes, jam, yogurt tubes, butter, fruit, cereal bars, fruit to go... or any item that can be grab and go.

CAMS, the students, and your community thank you for your help and support.

SPRING IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER

2011-03-07T19:52:00.004-04:00

A sure sign of Spring. Department of Transportation and infrastructure Renewal have posted the Spring weight restrictions on Provincial roads. This sign is at the Duke St. entrance to Chester.

With lots of rain and little frost in the ground,there will be a fair bit of infrastructure to be renewed this Spring and Summer due to severe erosion.

A close-up of the area near the entrance to The Old Train Station.

A section of Victoria St. is starting to be undermined,making it unsafe for vehicles and pedestrians alike.

Proponents for the preservation and protection of The Old Stone Bridge on Victoria St. likely wish this sign was permanent.

Remember: Spring is just around the corner. (Two more weeks.)

Mar. 7'th,Chester--------------------------------The wind,rain and warm temperatures over the last few days have really taken a toll on the ice and snow lying around. There is very little frost in the ground. In a yearly ritual to help protect roads and highways,the Provincial Government has closed the roads to heavy vehicles. There are exemptions for certain necessary services such as fire trucks,utility service vehicles (phone and power) and bulk milk and garbage hauling trucks.
In the Chester area,the restrictions are in effect from March 7'th to May 2'nd, 2011 unless conditions allow the Minister to revise the dates. For more details and information you can check www.gov.ns.ca/tran .

2011 NSHBA REAL HOME SHOW

2011-03-04T17:23:00.017-04:00

The main hall of The Forum houses many exhibitors.

Elmira Stove Works had a great Northstar '50's retro style fridge on display at their booth.

Forget sexism,these guys got it right when it comes to home building. See womancentricmatters.com for more information.

A HomeHardware dealer's paint display. Painting your own house can be one of the easiest do-it-yourself projects for the average homeowner.

The Scotian Homes booth. They have built quite a few homes in Chester and the surrounding area.

Pam Bedard and her co-workers at Liteco pose at their booth. Pam grew up in East Chester and lives near Chester.

Suzanne Wamboldt of uberHome is busy at her booth. Part of uberHome's business is using technology to allow seniors to remain in their own homes longer. uberHome's many awards are visible in the foreground. uberHome is a member of The Chester Municipal Chamber of Commerce.

Mar. 4'th, Halifax-----------------------When you wake up in the morning and the temperature outside is -16.6 Celsius it's hard to think about exterior home renovations and construction projects. But a sunny day brings promise of better things to come when you head for the Nova Scotia Home Builders Association Real Home Show, on this weekend at the Halifax Forum complex 2901,Windsor St. in Halifax.

An historic community recreation and sports facility,The Forum was built in 1927. At 84 years old the traditional and solid bricks,mortar and steel of the Forum provide a wonderful space to investigate all the newest and latest advances in homebuilding and construction technology.

From ICF concrete forms to fibreglass roof shingles ; water conserving toilets to energy efficient lighting and heating products ; kitchen designs and flooring products ; personal health and home technology integration; hot tubs and accessible bathroom fixtures. These are some of the many and various things that you can investigate whether renovating or building new.

Three items of note:

There were several displays on water use and quality. From The Halifax Water Commission to companies that offered water treatment technology and equipment. Even the plumbing equipment manufacturers and distributors were showing more water conserving appliances and fixtures.

We are also witnessing the early stages of the movement toward age friendly technology. From bathroom fixtures to decorative style and uberHome Technology's Grand Care system.

Alternate energy and green technology is also gaining momentum with solar energy equipment becoming more available and affordable. LEED(Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)

is also a new standard for green building techniques and construction. Along with quality,sustainability is now an important factor in home construction.

If you have plans for a new home or a renovation large or small,the Real Home Show is a great place to do some homework. It must be said that the men and women who are staffing the displays for their companies or other organizations are extremely friendly and knowledgeable.

They answered our questions thoroughly and as we observed other show goers, both they and the exhibitors were mutually satisfied with their interactions.

The NSHBA Real Home Show is a great way to keep warm this weekend and plan for your latest home improvement or your new home.

CHESTER CLIPPERS PLAY-OFF HOCKEY THIS SUNDAY

2011-03-03T19:19:00.003-04:00

NOVA SCOTIA JR. C HOCKEY LEAGUE

WEST DIVISION CHAMPIONSHIP (Best 4 of 7 series)

#1 Chester Clippers vs. #2 Clare Lions

GAME 5: Sunday, March 6th - 6:30 PM (6:15pm warmup)

CHESTER RINK

$6 - ADULTS

$4 - STUDENTS/SENIORS

www.chesterclippers.ca www.nsjrchl.com

UPCOMING COMMUNITY EVENTS

2011-03-03T18:09:00.004-04:00

Friday, March 4 & Saturday, March 5

DINNER THEATRE at the Western Shore Fire Hall starting 6:30 pm. Music and laugher complete with delicious roast beef dinner, salad and dessert. This event is sponsored by the Parish of St. Martin’s, Western Shore. Tickets $20 each. For more info/tickets call 627-2748.

Saturday, March 5

COUNTRY BREAKFAST at the Chester Basin Fire Hall from 7:30 to 10:30 am. Enjoy bacon, sausage, baked beans, scrambled eggs, toast, juice, tea/coffee. Cost $6. All welcome.

ANNUAL ROCK-A-THON at the Little Red School, Canaan from 6:00 pm to 12:00 midnight. Please sponsor a Rocker. Proceeds for the Little Red School.

DANCE at the District #1 Community Centre, Blandford with the band “Usual Suspects” from 9:30 pm to 1:30 am. Advanced tickets $10 or at the door $15. Available at Hubbards Home Hardware, The Deck, Between Friends, or by contacting Fred 228-2606.

Monday, March 7

The Regional Emergency Measures Organization (REMO) is holding an information session on FLOOD AWARENESS AND PREPAREDNESS at the District #1 Community Centre, Blandford starting 7:00 pm. We should all be aware of the potential impact flooding causes - be it from groundwater, pipes, storm surge, rivers, streams or just fast thawing and heavy rains.

MAHONE ISLANDS CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION with Guest Speaker: Syd Dumaresq at St. Stephen’s Parish Hall, Chester starting 7:30 pm.

Tuesday, March 8

PANCAKE SUPPER at St. Mark’s Anglican Church, Martin’s Point from 4:30 to 6:30 pm. Adults $6 and Children $3. Take-outs available.

The Chester Office of the Lunenburg County District Royal Canadian Mounted Police will be holding a “TOWN HALL MEETING” at the New Ross Consolidated School, 4689 Hwy 12 from 7:00 to 9:00 pm to discuss policing issues and community concerns of residents within the Municipality of the District of Chester. For those who are not able to attend, please feel free to forward concerns to Sgt. Paul Coughlin, Chester RCMP at 275-3583 or

paul.coughlin@rcmp-grc.gc.ca .

Wednesday, March 9

The Chester Office of the Lunenburg County District Royal Canadian Mounted Police will be holding a “TOWN HALL MEETING” at the Chester Legion, 14 Union Street from 7:00 to 9:00 pm to discuss policing issues and community concerns of residents within the Municipality of the District of Chester. For those who are not able to attend, please feel free to forward concerns to Sgt. Paul Coughlin, Chester RCMP at 275-3583 or paul.coughlin@rcmp-grc.gc.ca .

Thursday, March 10

The Chester Office of the Lunenburg County District Royal Canadian Mounted Police will be holding a “TOWN HALL MEETING” at the Western Shore & District Fire Hall, 6412 Hwy 3 from 7:00 to 9:00 pm to discuss policing issues and community concerns of residents within the Municipality of the District of Chester. For those who are not able to attend, please feel free to forward concerns to Sgt. Paul Coughlin, Chester RCMP at 275-3583 or

paul.coughlin@rcmp-grc.gc.ca .

Saturday, March 12

BREAKFAST at the New Ross Legion from 7:00 to 11:00 am. Enjoy pancakes, eggs, bacon, sausage, toast, coffee/tea, juice. Adults $8, Children (5-12) $4 and under 5 years are free. Proceeds to support the New Ross Legion Ladies Auxiliary.

BREAKFAST at the Chester Legion from 7:30 to 10:30 am.

CRIB TOURNAMENT at the Little Red School, Canaan starting 10:30 am. Cost $20 per team. Cash prizes.

KARAOKE at the Chester Legion from 9:00 pm to 1:00 am. No cover charge.

Sunday, March 13

FLEA MARKET at the Western Shore Legion from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Canteen available. To book a table or for more info call the Legion 627-2570.

ST. PATRICK’S DAY SUPPER at the Forties Community Centre, 1787 Forties Road, New Ross from 4:00 to 6:00 pm. Serving starts 4:30 pm. Enjoy corn beef & cabbage, carrots & boiled potatoes, dessert, tea/coffee. Adults $10, Children (5-12) $5 and under 5 years are free.

GOSPEL MUSIC EVENING at the Aenon Baptist Church, Chester Basin starting 7:00 pm. Featuring Agnes Clinton, Charlene Millett and Jeffrey Haines. Please come and bring a friend.

Monday, March 14

The Chester Office of the Lunenburg County District Royal Canadian Mounted Police will be holding a “TOWN HALL MEETING” at the District #1 Community Centre, 30 Fire Hall Road, Blandford from 7:00 to 9:00 pm to discuss policing issues and community concerns of residents within the Municipality of the District of Chester. For those who are not able to attend, please feel free to forward concerns to Sgt. Paul Coughlin, Chester RCMP at 275-3583 or paul.coughlin@rcmp-grc.gc.ca .

The Regional Emergency Measures Organization (REMO) is holding an information session on FLOOD AWARENESS AND PREPAREDNESS at the Western Shore Fire Hall, 6412 Hwy 3 starting 7:00 pm. We should all be aware of the potential impact flooding causes - be it from groundwater, pipes, storm surge, rivers, streams or just fast thawing and heavy rains.

Wednesday, March 16

COMMUNITY SOUP LUNCHEON at St. Stephen’s Parish Community Centre, 54 Regent Street, Chester from 12:00 noon to 1:00 pm. Guest Speaker “Brad Armstrong” will talk about “Chester Comfort Station”. Cost $5. Proceeds will be given to a community work of the speaker’s choice. Donations welcome.

Friday, March 18

SHORT NOTICE will be playing at the Chester Legion from 9:00 pm to 1:00 am. Cover charge $2.

Saturday, March 19

BREAKFAST at the Western Shore Fire Hall from 7:30 to 10:30 am. Enjoy scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, toast, juice, tea or coffee. Cost $6. Come and enjoy a great breakfast and help to support the Firefighters.

BREAKFAST at the District #1 Community Centre from 9:00 to 11:00 am. Enjoy eggs, bacon, sausage, hashbrowns, baked beans, toast, tea/coffee, juice. Adults $6, Children (5-12) $3 and under 5 years are free. Storm Date: March 20 - 11:30 am to 1:30 pm.

COUNTRY JAMBOREE at the Little Red School, Canaan starting 7:00 pm. Local musicians, 50/50 & raffle draws. Free lunch. Donation jar at the door.

Sunday, March 20

CRIB TOURNAMENT at the Chester Legion starting 1:00 pm.

The Athenaeum Society of Nova Scotia presents A PHOTO JOURNEY INTO THE LAST 520 MILLION YEARS. Geologist Garth Prime presents an illustrated overview of the very earliest influences on the land around us. The meeting will take place at Ocean Swells Community Centre (2724 Highway 329 in Northwest Cove) starting 2:30 pm and are followed by a social coffee and cookies time.

TRIPLE PLAY will be playing at the Chester Legion from 3:30 to 7:00 pm. No cover charge.

Monday, March 21

CHESTER GARDEN CLUB MEETING at St. Stephen’s Parish Hall starting 6:30 pm for 7:00 pm.

Guest Speaker “Jill Jeddrie” will talk about “Elemental Photography” of plants and nature. Refreshments will be served. All welcome to attend.

Wednesday, March 23

COMMUNITY SOUP LUNCHEON at St. Stephen’s Parish Community Centre, 54 Regent Street, Chester from 12:00 noon to 1:00 pm. Guest Speaker “Debbie Reeves” will talk about “Christmas Tree Industry & Forestry”. Cost $5. Proceeds will be given to a community work of the speaker’s choice. Donations welcome.

ISLAND NEWS AND INFORMATION

2011-02-28T18:10:00.002-04:00

(Click on poster to enlarge. )

With all the snow still on the ground it is hard to think about boating,swimming and hiking around on the Islands in Mahone Bay off Chester. Come out and hear Syd Dumaresq speak about island conservation and preservation. It's a good way to get your mind off Winter and to plan for Summer activities on the water.

For more information about MICA click here .
CMHS info here .

SOUP'S ON In Chester

2011-02-24T08:57:00.003-04:00

(click on poster to enlarge)

Nurture your body and your mind with the return of St. Stephen's Community Soup Luncheons from mid-March to mid-April.
Come out and hear speakers from our community as they speak on their involvement in a variety of work and topics that are happening in the community.

Card Lake Winter Walk

2011-02-24T01:40:00.001-04:00

Enjoy the wilderness in winter by snowshoeing at Card Lake with an interpretative walk led by Chester Councilor and Friends of Nature Director Brad Armstrong and others. Hopefully the weather will cooperate.

PLANNING ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING

2011-02-22T23:06:00.002-04:00

Take Notice That a Planning Advisory Committee meeting has been scheduled for Wednesday, February 23 'rd beginning at 7:00 p.m. at Municipal Council Chamber, 151 King St., Village of Chester.

Agenda items include:

1. Re-organization of P.A.C.,H.A.C. and A.A.C.
2. Highway 3 Streetscape Study Review
3. Highway 3 Proposed Work Program
4. Highway 3 Zoning Boundary changes
5. Any other planning matters

The public is advised that this meeting is open for the public to attend.

P.M. Myra
Municipal Clerk

Feb.22'nd Chester---------------------We bring you the above meeting notice as a reminder to attend. More often than not there is little public interest or attendance at such meetings.
There are some relatively important matters being covered here. Residents should come out and be informed or inform the P.A.C. of their concerns. Lately,there does not seem to be very much interest from Municipal or Village residents in such matters. Citizens must participate pro-actively and not re-actively in civic and political matters. The above meeting notice is presented for your information and to encourage you to get engaged in matters that affect your Community.

For your information:

P.A.C. = Planning Advisory Committee
H.A.C. =Heritage Advisory Committee
A.A.C. =Area Advisory Committee

MP WAYNE EASTER TAKES COFFEE BREAK IN CHESTER

2011-02-21T20:00:00.006-04:00

Over 30 people crowded The Kiwi Too to hear Liberal Agriculture Critic Wayne Easter speak.

Above and below : MP Wayne Easter makes a point to his audience.

Wayne Easter takes a question from the floor. Unlike many politicians,Mr. Easter is a good listener.

South Shore St. Margaret's Liberal candidate Derek Wells realizes it's time to head off to Bridgewater for another meeting.

`Chester Farmers Market committee member John Pece speaks with MP Wayne Easter about small farm producers and community Farmers Markets.

Feb.21'st,Chester--------------------------On short notice,over 30 people came out to meet and hear the Member of Parliament for Malpeque P.E.I. speak on some present political issues and answer a few questions from listeners. Easter is the Liberal Agriculture Critic in Ottawa. He is a former President of the National Farmers Union and grew up on the family farm. He has a diploma from the Nova Scotia Agricultural College. Since Chester is not a major player in the agricultural field, most of the questions were centered on health care and engaging voters. There was one question concerning Farm Markets and small scale farming.

There was a pamphlet titled "Rural Canada Matters" available and it pointed out areas that the Liberals are focusing on to improve life for Canadians. The opening line states " Canada's rural communities matter to the health and prosperity of Canada. But rural Canadians face numerous challenges: high levels of unemployment,doctor and nursing shortages,a lack of reliable internet and cell phone service and in some areas no basic mail service." Rural Canada Matters is a Liberal initiative to unite rural and urban Canada for the good of all Canadians.
Mr. Easter summarized some of these issues.

Most of the benefits enjoyed by the urban centres of our country are supplied by the rural areas.
Energy,food,lumber and other raw materials are the building blocks that are consumed by the large urban areas of the country. This business and the profits generated by it keep the large central urban areas going. If this is to be sustained,the rural areas need to have investment in their economies. Renewable resource sectors,forestry and agriculture are the basic necessities that we must have. Heat and lights,shelter and food. It's what unites us all.
Next are better health care, improved internet and cell phone service, a better rural mail service and a National Food Policy.

Most in attendance enjoyed the coffee break with Wayne Easter. He could have stayed longer to take questions but had to head to Bridgewater for some outreach work with the area Agricultural community.

CHESTER WINS DOMINION MEN'S CLUB CURLING CHAMPIONSHIP

2011-02-21T09:06:00.003-04:00

(L to R) Chester curling champs Terry Atherton,lead; Nathan Reid,second; Jose Teixeira,mate; and Andrew Atherton,skip display their trophy.

Chester Claims 2011 Nova Scotia Men's Club Curling Crown

Chester - For the second time in a month, a team from the Chester Curling Club has claimed a provincial curling title and the right to represent Nova Scotia at a Canadian championship.

Hard on the heels of Lindsay Doucet's junior women's victory, Andrew Atherton made the home fans happy by capturing the 2011 Nova Scotia Dominion Men's Club Curling Championship in Chester last weekend.

Sponsored by the Dominion Insurance Company, the event is designed for the lifeblood of any curling club - the true club curler who participates in a club-sanctioned league. The objective of the Championship, which culminates in national playdowns in Richmond, BC in November, is to support ordinary curlers and the development of curling across Canada. Eighteen teams from across Nova Scotia participated in the provincial championship in Chester.

Atherton and his squad of mate Jose Teixeira, second Nathan Reid and lead Terry Atherton compiled a 7-1 win-loss record, avenging an earlier loss to 2011 NS Master's champ Alan Marshall of Glooscap with a dominating 8-1 victory in the Sunday afternoon final. Earlier in the day, Atherton defeated 2010 runner-up Matt Hobrecker of Dartmouth 5-4 in the semi-final match.
(From press release supplied by Chester Curling Club)

CHESTER COMMUNITY THEATRE AUDITIONS

2011-02-19T18:34:00.003-04:00

Feb.19'th,Chester-------------------Here's a "leg breaking" (sic) news story for all the would be thespians in the area. It's a refreshing sign of Spring from The Chester Drama Society. The community theatre group has issued a Casting and Crew call for the Chester Drama Society production of Neil Simon's The Good Doctor,directed by Andre Haines.

When: Saturday February 26'th,2:00 to 5:00 P.M.
Where: Chester Baptist Church Hall,84 King St.,Chester

Come and be part of Chester Drama Society's spring production of Neil Simon's "The Good Doctor". Set in 19'th century Russia,based on short stories by Anton Chekov,the play is a delightful entertainment with all of Simon's humour and all of Chekov's sense of humanity.
The Chester Drama Society is looking for actors, technical crew, stage management, publicity and other helpers.
Rehearsals will be held in March and April with performances in late April and May at a variety of Community venues.
Call 624-8269 for more information or email ruruball@gmail.com
or just turn up.

The show must go on.................

EXTREME TIDES IN CHESTER AREA

2011-02-18T18:16:00.004-04:00

Looking out the Front Harbour from The Cove Garden Park at a typical low tide on Feb.17'th at about 1:30 p.m.

One of Chester's summer icons,the Rope Loft is high and dry for a few hours.

Freda's Beach low tide on a warm February afternoon.

Another popular Summer venue is The Chester Yacht Club.

Feb. 17'th,Chester--------------------------Over the next few days there will be higher and lower than usual tides. The lowest will be on Feb 19'th at 2:56 p.m. (-0.07 meters) 2:56 p.m. and the highest will be at 9:49 p.m. (2.03 meters) on Feb 20'th. There should be no great danger as long as there are no storms or high winds.
The phenomenon will occur again around the 20'th of March as well.
Anyone with waterfront property or boats and floats stored close to the shoreline may want to double check their property to be sure it is secure. Everyone else can enjoy the unusual occurrence from a scenic point.

chesterns.ca COMMUNITY EVENTS SCHEDULE

2011-02-17T21:51:00.003-04:00

45’S CARDS every Thursday night in the Lodge Room at the District #1 Community Centre, Blandford starting 7:30 pm.

Saturday, February 19

BREAKFAST at the District #1 Community Centre, Blandford from 9:00 to 11:00 am. Enjoy pancakes, sausage, bacon, juice, tea/coffee. Storm Date: Sunday, February 20 from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm.

TAKE THE ROOF OFF WINTER EVENT at Lordly Park from 1:00 to 3:00 pm.

COUNTRY JAMBOREE at the Little Red School, Canaan starting 7:00 pm. Local musicians, 50/50 & raffle draws. Free lunch. Donation jar at the door.

Sunday, February 20

CRIB TOURNAMENT at the Chester Legion starting 1:00 pm.

The Athenaeum Society of Nova Scotia presents HERITAGE VALUE IN THE UNEXPECTED. Jeffrey Reed discusses the value we place on the cultural heritage in our communities. The meeting will take place at Ocean Swells Community Centre (2724 Highway 329 in Northwest Cove) starting 2:30 pm and is followed by a social coffee and cookies time.

BRENT MCINNIS will be playing at the Chester Legion from 3:30 to 7:00 pm.

Monday, February 21

CHESTER GARDEN CLUB MEETING at the St. Stephen’s Parish Community Centre, King St. at 6:30 for 7:00 pm. Guest Speaker Susan Davis will talk about how to “Get that tropical look in Nova Scotia”. Refreshments will be served and everyone is welcome.

Tuesday, February 22

There was no quorum to hold a general meeting in January so the election and installation of officers for Everett Branch #88 will take place tonight at 7:30 pm. Please remember that dues must be paid for 2011 in order to vote. All members are encouraged to attend. If you have any questions call the Branch President at 275-3948.

Saturday, February 26

CRIB TOURNAMENT at the Little Red School, Canaan starting 10:30 am. Cost $20 per team. Cash prizes.

PIE SOCIAL at the Western Shore Fire Hall from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm. Fresh homemade pies, tea/coffee. Cost $6. Beat the winter blues, bring a friend or meet new ones. Help support our new Firefighters Auxiliary.

KITCHEN PARTY JAM SESSION at St.Stephen’s Parish Hall, Chester starting 7:30 pm. There will be a draw for a Guitar, Social Evening, and Silent Auction featuring 1784 Chester Map, Hawboldt Carving, a Heisler Painting, a 250^th Banner, Hooked Mat by Yvonne Hennigar and other items.

Sunday, February 27

CRIB TOURNAMENT at the District #1 Community Centre starting 1:00 pm. Admission $20. Prizes, Canteen.

COUNTRY MUSIC VARIETY SHOW at the Forties Community Centre (1787 Forties Road, New Ross) from 1:30 to 4:30 pm. Admission $5. Make Mine Country, The Maughns, Ron Muise, Country Classics & Ron DeAdder. Sound by Winston Shatford. Canteen, hot dogs, burgers, pop, free tea/coffee. For more info call 689-2612.

Monday, February 28

BASIN GARDENERS ASSOCIATION MEETING at Forest Heights Community School starting 7:00 pm. Special guest speaker. Visitors and new members welcome. For more info please call Myra 273-2000.

Tuesday, March 1

“EARLY BIRD" PANCAKE SUPPER at Ocean Swells Community Centre, Hwy. 329, Northwest Cove from 4:00 to 6:30 pm. Note the special date for this ever-popular feast of pancakes & sausages as well as lovely homemade desserts. Adults $7, Children (5-12) $4 and under 5 eat free. For more info call Jan 228-2059.

Friday, March 4 & Saturday, March 5

Saturday, March 5

COUNTRY BREAKFAST at the Chester Basin Fire Hall from 7:30 to 10:30 am. Enjoy bacon, sausage, baked beans, scrambled eggs, toast, juice, tea/coffee. Cost $6. All welcome.

ANNUAL ROCK-A-THON at the Little Red School, Canaan from 6:00 pm to 12:00 midnight. Please sponsor a Rocker. Proceeds for the Little Red School.

Monday, March 7

MAHONE ISLANDS CONSERVATION ASSOCIATION with Guest Speaker: Syd Dumaresq at St. Stephen’s Parish Hall, Chester starting 7:30 pm.

Tuesday, March 8

PANCAKE SUPPER at St. Mark’s Anglican Church, Martin’s Point from 4:30 to 6:30 pm. Adults $6 and Children $3. Take-outs available.

Saturday, March 12

CRIB TOURNAMENT at the Little Red School, Canaan starting 10:30 am. Cost $20 per team. Cash prizes.

Sunday, March 13

GOSPEL MUSIC EVENING at the Aenon Baptist Church, Chester Basin starting 7:00 pm. Featuring Agnes Clinton, Charlene Millett and Jeffrey Haines. Please come and bring a friend.

Wednesday, March 16

Saturday, March 19

COUNTRY JAMBOREE at the Little Red School, Canaan starting 7:00 pm. Local musicians, 50/50 & raffle draws. Free lunch. Donation jar at the door.

Sunday, March 20

Wednesday, March 23

Saturday, March 26

CRIB TOURNAMENT at the Little Red School, Canaan starting 10:30 am. Cost $20 per team. Cash prizes.

CORNED BEEF & CABBAGE SUPPER at the District #1 Community Centre from 4:30 to 6:00 pm. Enjoy corned beef, cabbage, turnip, carrots, potatoes, pie, tea/coffee. Adults $10, Children (5-12) $5 and under 5 years are free. Storm Date: March 27.

Wednesday, March 30

COMMUNITY SOUP LUNCHEON at St. Stephen’s Parish Community Centre, 54 Regent Street, Chester from 12:00 noon to 1:00 pm. Guest Speaker “Jillian Everill” will talk about “Movie Making in Chester”. Cost $5. Proceeds will be given to a community work of the speaker’s choice. Donations welcome.

Wednesday, April 6

COMMUNITY SOUP LUNCHEON at St. Stephen’s Parish Community Centre, 54 Regent Street, Chester from 12:00 noon to 1:00 pm. Guest Speaker “Dr. Joy Calkin” will talk about “Rural Health Care”. Cost $5. Proceeds will be given to a community work of the speaker’s choice. Donations welcome.

Wednesday, April 13

COMMUNITY SOUP LUNCHEON at St. Stephen’s Parish Community Centre, 54 Regent Street, Chester from 12:00 noon to 1:00 pm. Guest Speaker “Denise Dodge-Baker” will talk about “Chester District School”. Cost $5. Proceeds will be given to a community work of the speaker’s choice. Donations welcome.

Friday, April 15

CHESTER MUNICIPAL HERITAGE SOCIETY PRESENTATION & AGM at St. Stephen’s Parish Centre, Chester starting 5:00 pm. Talk by Dr. Terry Punch on Dr. Winthrop Bell, followed by a pot luck supper then the AGM at 7:00 pm.

Saturday, April 16

BREAKFAST at the District #1 Community Centre from 9:00 to 11:00 am. Enjoy eggs, ham, hashbrowns, baked beans, toast, tea/coffee, juice. Adults $6, Children (5-12) $3 and under 5 are free.

Sunday, April 17

The Athenaeum Society of Nova Scotia presents CLIMATE CHANGE AS SEEN THROUGH THE EYES OF AN OCEANOGRAPHER. Well-known to CBC listeners, science commentator Bob Fournier discusses climate change as it relates to changes in the ocean. The meeting will take place at Ocean Swells Community Centre (2724 Highway 329 in Northwest Cove) starting 2:30 pm and are followed by a social coffee and cookies time.

Monday, May 2

OAK ISLAND PRESENTATION at St. Stephen’s Parish Hall, Chester starting 7:30 pm with Guest Speaker Danny Hennigar.

Saturday, July 9

Chester Municipal Heritage Society’s ANNUAL AUCTION at the Chester Train Station starting 9:30 am.

Saturday, August 20

CHESTER MUNICIPAL HERITAGE SOCIETY ANNUAL HOUSE & HARBOUR TOUR beginning at the Chester Train Station 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. For more info call 275-3842.

ODA AUDACITY ! ODA GOTTA GO !

2011-02-17T17:47:00.001-04:00

After "not" coming clean on her action of ordering the altering of a signed document, International Co-operation Minister Bev Oda takes a smoke break near a back door on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Wednesday.
PHOTO :Fred Chartrand/CP

The now infamous document showing the crudely inserted "NOT".
It's kind of like in the Monty Python "Fish License Sketch" :

...Shopkeeper: "There's no such thing as a bloody cat license."
Customer: "Yes there is !"
Shopkeeper: "Isn't"
Customer: "Is"
Shopkeeper: "Isn't"
Customer: "I bleeding got one,look ! What's that then ?"
Shopkeeper: "This is a dog license with the word 'dog' crossed out and 'cat' written in in crayon."...

Feb.17'th,Chester---------------------- Okay,folks ! chesterns.ca tries to steer clear of the complications of politics. However,we can't just sit back and let this latest act of a bumbling and dishonest Federal politician go unchecked. Most people you talk to around the Village are disgusted by the news. The tampering is one thing but it seems folks just can't take the lying. It has been in the national news for four days now. It smells bad no matter what your political stripe. Rules. Honesty. Integrity. All political parties must adhere to a standard.
Maybe it's a competence issue. Whatever the reason,Minister Bev Oda should be issued a NOT (Notice Of Termination) for her part in the document altering scandal that is now plaguing Parliament Hill.
If you are fed up with the actions of politicians like Bev Oda you can send a strong message to the the Government by signing the petition at the link below.

http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/politics-fire-bev-oda/

There are other partisan petitions being circulated but this one appears to be a neutral effort.

And don't forget, when the next election is called get out and vote. It just may clean the Government up a bit.

DOG DAYS OF WINTER ?

2011-02-17T08:58:00.003-04:00

A sun dog as seen from the school grounds in the Village of Chester.

Where there is one there is usually another. After heading to the waterfront for a better view of the horizon, we find this classic view of a pair of sun dogs from Victoria St. at the foot of Jib Lot Park at 5;00 P.M.

Feb.16'th,Chester----------------The power of the sun is getting stronger as the end of winter draws near. From -12.7 degrees Celsius at 2:30 a.m. to a high of +1.5 degrees Celsius at 3:40 p.m., a 14 degree temperature shift is certainly noticeable. Perhaps three suns can speed up the warming process.
While they make a great view before sunset, these sun dogs do not give off heat. They are a result of the sun's reflection off of ice crystals in the atmosphere. They are most noticeable when the sun is low in the sky and appear at 22 degrees to the left and right of the sun in line with it. They are visible anytime of the year on an average of twice a week but we tend to notice the more extreme examples due to lighting and atmospheric conditions that enhance their formation process.
The scientific name for a sun dog is parhelion,plural parhelia.

GET YOUR HEART PUMPING FOR THE CAUSE

2011-02-14T09:06:00.008-04:00

Angela Coupe of Nova Dance Studio leads the Resistance and Core session. She is also the "Founder" of The Fit Chix group.
Photo by David Corkum

A fine example of the face painting for kids by Steph Vincent featuring the event's theme.
Photo by David Corkum

Chester native Mary Ann Zinck takes a break after leading the ZUMBA session .
chesterns.ca photo

Whole lotta Yoga goin' on. The participants go through the Vinyasa Yoga session.
chesterns.ca photo

Feb. 12'th,Chester---------------------With Valentine'S Day only 2 days away, over 100 people came out to get their hearts "Pumping For the Cause". The event was a charity fundraiser for the local P.R.O. Kids group and The Breast Cancer Society. A local group of women known as "The Fit Chix" organized the event in a very short period of time after they heard that P.R.O. Kids were facing a shortage of funds that would force them to deny requests for assistance to Chester area youth for recreational and cultural activities.

The P.R.O. Kids announcement came out on Jan. 28'th and by Jan. 31'st ,"The Fit Chix" had the event planned and organized. Their goal was to raise $5000.00 to support the two charities.
With great optimism,the group decided to call their effort The First Annual Charity Fitness Demonstration. The areas covered were Resistance and Core with Angela Coupe, ZUMBA with Mary Ann Zinck, Vinyasa Yoga with Cathy Guest and NIA with Kathleen Naylor.

The majority of participants were women from 16 to 80 years old and there was face painting and other activities for children. We heard there were two token males participating.
The event raised over $6000.00 through registration,silent auctions and donations from local businesses. The Breast Cancer awareness proceeds will be directed to "Run For The Cure".

It should be noted that the event's enormous success is due in large part to the enthusiastic effort of Natalie Dockrill of Chester. When it comes to getting an event off the ground,this woman is a motivational and organizing firecracker.

At the going down of the sun...HE GUARDS THE VILLAGE IN ALL WEATHER

2011-02-11T18:12:00.005-04:00

With snow on his face...........

Standing on guard.................

Frozen in time................

The Chester Cenotaph is located in the Parade Square next to the Chester Yacht Club.

Feb.10'th,Chester-----------------------It is just before sunset after a light snow. The bronze statue of a Nova Scotia Highlander soldier stands atop a granite base at the eastern end of the Parade Square. Erected in August of 1922, the monument was donated by the Scottish sculptor J. Massey Rhind.
Almost 90 years later it reminds us of the sacrifice of those lost in the Great Wars as well as area residents that we have lost in more recent campaigns in the fight for freedom.
While most attend the act of Remembrance at the ceremony on November 11'th, this corner of the Parade Square is an often quiet spot. Pause and take a break. Admire Rhind's work and remember the efforts of those whose names you read on the plaques at the solid granite base.

CHESTER BUSINESS

2011-02-10T21:22:00.004-04:00

Chamber of Commerce president Ben Wiper (left) watches a committee presentation along with other members of the Chamber executive.

The Commissioners of the Village of Chester have an animated discussion on the 205 Duke St. zoning issue.

CVFD Fire Chief Leo "Duke" Chafe gives his report to the Commissioners of the Village of Chester.

Feb. 8'th and 9'th,Chester-----------------------The threat of a big snow storm did not stop the executive of the Chester Municipal Chamber of Commerce from holding their regular monthly
meeting on Tuesday morning. Along with the usual reports and business,the main topic at this meeting was the presentation of the various agendas of the Chamber's working committees. The committees also had to present their budgets for the coming year.
The chamber also discussed the 205 Duke St. zoning change and moved to support it with some conditions. Chamber President Ben Wiper will send a letter to Council with the Chamber's position and concerns.

On Wednesday evening the regular monthly meeting of The Village of Chester took place upstairs at the Chester Fire Hall on Central St. While there was no snow falling,the roads in the Village were treacherous due to plummeting temperatures causing ice problems. But all Commissioners made it to the meeting.
Two big items on the agenda were ownership of Village roads and streets and Village Property taxes.
It is currently the responsibility of the Municipality to collect taxes and distribute the Village's share to the Commissioner's for their operational responsibilities. The Village of Chester is looking into the feasibility of collecting property taxes for the Village of Chester as a cost saving measure.

The Commissioners are also looking into assuming ownership of Village roads and streets to facilitate improvements and better maintenance and also save money on major projects like sidewalks and repaving. Commission Chair Bill Zinck Jr. will look into having a study carried out on this matter.

There was also a fairly lively discussion on the 205 Duke St. property (former RCMP Chester Detachment). Most Commissioners are in favor of the intrinsic zoning change to benefit the local economy. It was also felt that this would be a positive step to improve traffic concerns in the Duke St. and Highway #3 area. Sidewalks,crosswalks,stop signs and even traffic lights may need to be considered if development drastically alters pedestrian and driver safety in the area.

Perhaps an even more important issue concerning the 205 Duke St. rezoning proposal is the appearance of any new structures on the property. Commissioners would encourage the new owners (Loblaw's) to embrace the new architectural control standards being put forward under the Planning Vision and Streetscape Design for Highway 3 at Chester Village that was recently accepted by council.

Closer to the end of the meeting,Fire Chief Leo Chafe presented the Fire Chief's report to the Commissioners. He logged in 149 hours in meetings,call-outs,practices and Department business since Dec/15/2010 to the present evening. This included 22 assorted call-outs that ran the gamut from chimney fires to motor vehicle accidents and false alarms to medical assists.
It is important to note that the Fire Chief's position is that of a volunteer. Look closely at his hours logged. That is almost the same as an average working month at 40 hrs/week. Chief Chafe has a day job as well. His dedication to the safety of area residents and the traveling public and also in the leadership and guidance of his fellow firefighter's is truly remarkable.

Here are a few more numbers from the CVFD :

The average number of firefighters that respond to the hall per call is 18 to 22 members.

The average number that go out on a call is 10.

The average duration of a call is 1 hour.

One just needs to do the simple math and it is not hard to see how much time is involved in the efforts our volunteer firefighters put out to help keep the community safe while dealing with emergencies of all kinds.

Residents of the Village of Chester should remember that the regular monthly meetings of the Village of Chester occur on the second Wednesday of every month at 7:00 P.M. at the Chester Firehall. All residents of the Village of Chester are welcome to attend.

It should be noted that there were only 2 residents in the gallery at this latest meeting and some important matters were discussed.

A BIG THANK YOU FROM THE CHESTER DRAMA SOCIETY

2011-02-10T18:00:00.003-04:00

(Click on poster to ENLARGE)

Jan. 10'th,Chester-------------------------The Chester Drama Society would also like to say thank you to all the fans and patrons who came out and paid admission to see the Coldest Day event
in Chester. See you at the "coolest" happening in Chester next Winter !

THE "COLDEST DAY" IN CHESTER

2011-02-09T18:22:00.013-04:00

One of the headliners, was Bluesman Morgan Davis strummin' on his cigar box guitar.

BLUE-MAN...............Morgan Davis is silhouetted against the Queen St. window of the Fo'c'sle.

After opening the afternoon event,Chester's Jamie Junger enjoys Morgan's set.

Emcee Malcolm Callaway steps out of the shadows to introduce another act.

Tavern keeper Bob Youden takes a break and enjoys the music.

One of the sleeper acts, 14 year old Lindsay Meisner of Halifax displayed amazing talent.

Would you buy a raffle ticket from this man ? Brian Crocker was in house to perform with The Studio Singers. Long live the King !

Mama has a squeeze box she wears on her chest.................Who is it ? Chester's Jean Nash waits to accompany The Studio Singers.

The Studio Singers were the LARGEST act at the Coldest Day in Chester.

All the pans in the Fo'c'sle kitchen aren't necessarily pretty. Manager Scott Youden hams it up for the camera.

John Burke was the lead singer in a popular Doo-wop number by The Studio Singers.

Mike Aube was another popular and talented performer. Perhaps we'll see him on the Chester Playhouse stage in the future.

Who's on first bass ? George Barkhouse of Darren Arsenault's band enjoys the performance while he waits for their set.

Feb.5'th,Chester.........................Chester's most favorite and famous wintertime event is the Coldest Day fundraiser talent showcase. Now in it's 11'th year,the event is organized by The Chester Drama Society with the help of many volunteers and the kind generosity of many businesses inside and outside of the Chester area. The event has evolved to benefit groups and organizations in the community and to really promote artists and performers at all levels,from amateur to professional.

The Fo'c'sle pub in Chester is Nova Scotia's oldest rural pub with roots going back to around 1760. Chief Cook and Bottlewasher ,Scott Youden said that as the Hosting Sponsor,The Coldest Day is second only to Chester Race Week in size and scope. From the entertainment to the number of patrons such events keep the staff hopping. If one happened to glance behind the bar or in the kitchen,all workers were running the operation like a well oiled machine. A special limited Coldest Day menu provided something for everyone and no doubt made life easier for the cooks.

This year's Coldest Day brought in over $6800.00 through admission,raffles,silent auctions and donations. Around 400 people were in and out during the approximate 10 hours that the event ran. This year,the admission price was doubled. That didn't hurt a bit. If you stayed for all of it,that's great entertainment at $1.00/Hour. Still a good bang for the buck.
This year's proceeds went in aid of the Chester Municipal Heritage Society's Lordly House renovation project and Chester Drama Society's community projects.

Here are some more number's for you.

Volunteers: 35

Musicians and Performers: 65

Contributing Businesses
and Individuals : 101

CHESTER REALLY SHOWS AT HALIFAX INT'L BOAT SHOW

2011-02-08T00:01:00.018-04:00

East River Marine's logo and motto could just as well be Chester's.

Chester Yacht Club presents.....................a reception to invite sailors to Chester Race Week 2011.

(L to R) CYC 's Rear Commodore Randy Stevens, Club Manager Kim Johnson and Chester Race Week Chair Dr. John Curry were on hand to welcome you aboard.

Dr. Curry presents................an invitation to Chester Race Week 2011.

There was an excellent turnout by members of the home team.

Chester sailor Martin Karlsen claims he is filling out the winning ballot for a free CRW registration.

Kilburn Marine's booth at the show. Owner Nick Kilburn operates out of Marriott's Cove.

The Gold River Marina booth was getting the attention of show goers.

Capt. Brian Donovan of Premier Marine Services of Halifax has a number of clients in the Chester area. We caught him chatting with his neighbor at the show.

Premiere SEA Ltd. of Chester shared a booth with Stevens Boat Works.

Sunnybrook Yachts of Chester and Halifax displayed a new J 80 at the show. Hull graphics designed and installed by the Sign Guy of Chester.

Philip Young of East River Marine displayed a project hull showing the processes and quality of his company's work.

A familiar Chester face. Gavin Flinn is the Sales Manager at Ocean Yacht Sales of Halifax.

Neil Joyce stands behind a gentleman who stopped by to check out one of Tern Boatworks latest projects,the IOD sloop Enigma.

A better view of Enigma's sleek hull.

Sandy and Syd Dumaresq of Chester were manning the MICA booth.

Dave DeWolfe was enjoying brisk business and lots interest at his Discovery Sailing booth.

Gerry Stevens and his Boston Whaler display is an iconic fixture at the Halifax Boat Show.
He owns and operates SeaLand Industries in Marriott's Cove.

Feb.4'th,Halifax----------------------There are a lot of people involved in the sailing and boating business in and around the Chester area. Their presence was certainly noticeable at this year's edition of the Halifax International Boat Show. From Chester Yacht Club to local boat builders and marine service providers,Chester has a large number folks involved in the industry. It's all good business for our local economy.

It was a little quiet when we arrived late Friday afternoon. This made it easy to navigate the great halls of the Show and speak with the exhibitors. By early evening the crowd of show goers started to swell. As usual the big boats got a lot of attention along with the sleek and shiny new power boats. Along the more classic and traditional lines, Tern Boatworks IOD project Enigma was getting a lot of attention. No matter what your preference in boats you must admit that she is a fine and beautiful example of Nova Scotia boat building talent and genius.

On the other end of the boating spectrum are the fibre glass power boats. An item of note here was SeaLand Marine's Boston Wailer display. Gerry and SeaLand have been a Boston Whaler dealer for 40 years now. Quite a milestone.
Another fact to note is that many of the Chester marine businesses are relatively new. This is another good sign for the local economy.

In the middle of a cold Nova Scotia winter with all the snow covering the ground,the Halifax International Boat Show is good therapy for all who are Summer starved. Where there are boats
all shiny and uncovered,there is hope. Old sol is getting stronger now and in a few short months
you will be uncovering your hull and getting it shipshape. Or you might be jumping in and turning the key on a new one you bought at the show.

The COLDEST DAY Features HOTTEST Local TALENT

2011-01-31T11:21:00.003-04:00

(Click on poster to ENLARGE)

It's that time of year again to come out and support local talent and artists as they support the local community with The Chester Drama Society. This year the group is donating the proceeds from their event to the Chester Municipal Heritage Society to aid The Lordly House renovation project.
Saturday,Feb. 5'th at the Fo'c'sle #6 Pleasant St. entrance in downtown Chester from 3:00 P.M. 'til the End...................... !

Miss Sara OFF TO HARVEST SCALLOPS

2011-01-30T18:35:00.004-04:00

The Cape Islander Miss Sara on a cold ,calm morning just off the Chester Government Wharf.

Steaming into the sun.

With Meisner Island in the background,Miss Sara is silhouetted in the reflected sunlight.

Jan. 30'th,Chester--------------------------Local Aquaculturalist Duncan Bates was off to check his scallop farming site and to harvest some of the shellfish for the Chinese New Year. He said his clients love to have fresh scallops for the holiday.
Harvesting has become more difficult lately as tunicates have made the work much more labour intensive. The added weight of the parasites is harder on the gear and moorings as well.
Miss Sara hasn't been going out very often mainly due to the cold weather but this morning she was an excellent subject for the camera.

YACHT LUCK POTLUCK

2011-01-30T12:05:00.009-04:00

The CYC on a busy Summer evening. This function involved the Junior Sailing Program at the Club.
The dishes shown below were brought out by members for a much smaller Winter season event, a potluck dinner.

It's buffet style serving so you can pick and choose from the many offerings.

This pineapple fried rice is a vegetarian Thai dish. If it were a competition,this dish would have taken the prize for presentation. It was almost too pretty to eat.

These pot stickers (jiaozi) are a Chinese dish and were one of the best offerings at the dinner.

The Korean beef bulgogi was another popular dish as there was not much left after the first line up of diners went through.

This Thai chicken curry was popular among those who liked a hot and spicy dish.

Jan.30'th,Chester---------------------While the weather outside may be frightful,the food inside was delightful ! If you find wintertime a cold,dark and dreary time of year then you may want to put on a potluck dinner with foods of a warmer country or climate. Members of CYC went "Continental" with an Asian theme this weekend. It looked like every dish suited the theme. It was one of the Club's most popular potluck events yet.

If you are not a member of any particular group,you can always get together with a group of friends or family and have a potluck to cure the winter blues.
Along with meeting new friends you can catch up with old ones and experience new kinds and flavours of food. Who knows ? You might even come away with the recipe for a favorite dish.

Bon appetit !

DOLLARWISE INVESTMENT ADVICE - RRSPs

2011-01-27T20:00:00.010-04:00

'Tis the Season. You've undecked the halls, and it's now time to deck out your retirement savings.

Only about 35% of Canadians contribute to an RRSP and of those who do, few are using their full contribution room. According to Statistics Canada, of those 35% of Canadians who do contribute, on average they were using only 5.9% of their contribution room, down from 9.6% in 2000. Not that anyone should take comfort in that...Misery might love company, but who wants to be part of a pity party when you should be enjoying retirement? Much more fun to have a solid retirement plan and enjoy life free of financial worries!

Just know that you're not alone if you haven't started saving yet, or haven't been saving the maximum allowable. So, let's get started....

Paying Down Debt vs RRSP

If you have high-interest debt, your first choice should be to focus on paying down that debt. Finance company loans and some credit cards charge as much as 18% (or more) interest. That is Priority #1! You need to pay this down first.

If your debt is personal lines of credit (LOC), mortgage or bank credit cards, check your statements or with your bank to find out what interest rate you're paying. If the interest rate is low, avg 4%, your best option may be investing in your RRSP.

Why an RRSP rather than other savings?

There are many savings vehicles, including TFSAs (Tax Free Savings Accounts - we'll discuss in another post) and other non-registered investments. For most Canadians with taxable income, an RRSP is as close to pain-free saving as you can get. This can work in several ways:

Contributing to an RRSP allows you to put off paying taxes on that money until retirement, when you're likely to have less income and therefore a lower marginal tax rate. The end result is less taxes paid.

If available through your employer, money may be directly contributed through a payroll deduction plan, so no tax is taken from your paycheque on those funds. The impact to your disposable income is reduced as the money has not been taxed.....yet.

You can contribute to an RRSP through an investment firm (via your financial advisor) or other financial institution. This can be done in a lump sum or through PAC (pre-authorized chequing). The contributions are claimed on your tax return and you receive a nice rebate, or reduction on taxes owed.

The amount of your tax savings and money in your pocket depends upon your income and marginal tax rate. Your financial advisor can help you with this.

How Can I Save????......I Have No Money!!!!!

You probably have more money than you think. You already know the usual advice re brown-bagging and using your travel mug to bring your coffee from home. All well and good, but then what? How do you really start to save?

The best way is through forced savings, which really isn't as bad as it sounds. Example: If your employer offers group benefits including RRSP contributions through payroll deductions.... this is a terrific way to start building your savings. In some cases, employers will match your contributions up to a certain percentage of your wages.

And, when you get a raise, add that to your RRSP deduction. You won't even miss it!

If you don't have a group plan, your financial advisor can work with you to set up an RRSP with a pre-arranged payment of as little as $50/mo coming from your bank account on set dates, either monthly, bi-weekly or weekly.

Employers who offer automatic payroll deposits will often accommodate depositing to two accounts. This is a good option for those who prefer to not even see the money coming out of their account.

There is no cost to talk to most financial advisors. Ask before you meet.

If you have questions, contact.....

thechesterinvestor@gmail.com

FITNESS FUNDRAISER IN CHESTER

2011-01-27T18:48:00.003-04:00

(Click on poster to enlarge.)

For more information and to register click here .

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

2011-01-26T21:54:00.004-04:00

Members of the CMCC Economic Development Committee wrap up their first meeting
after reviewing plans and projects for the coming year.

Jan.26'th,Chester--------------------Members of the Chester Municipal Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Committee held their first meeting. It was a planning and brainstorming session to determine some priorities for the coming year. Two areas of interest are the possibility of supporting an idea to make Chester a model "Age-Friendly" Village as society faces the onslaught of aging Baby Boomers. The other idea is to hold an exhibition or trade show for the public to see close-up what businesses and services are provided locally and to get people in the area to support the local economy by buying and shopping locally.
The group also outlined a budget for their work and projects.

Thank-you to the Chester Playhouse for the use of the Ondaatje Room.
The Committee plans to meet at various public and private venues around the Village to expose its members to the various groups and businesses that operate in the area. The Chester Playhouse is an important cultural icon in the Village and is a positive drawing card for the local economy. Along with the employment it provides,it also brings many visitors to the Village who often shop and dine in the area when they come out to see a show.

NOVA SCOTIA ICE FISHING,Marroitt's Cove

2011-01-26T21:13:00.004-04:00

From the head of the cove we see two specks out on the ice.

Close-up.

These two fishermen are enjoying the -3.5 degree temperature in the bright morning sun.

Jan.26'th, Marriott's Cove----------------------Two fishermen were spotted trying their luck through the ice over Marriott's Cove this morning. Marriott's Cove is a small residential community a few kilometers west of Chester. 30 to 40 years ago,Marriott's Cove was a popular smelt fishing spot but over the years the little fish have become scarce in the area. These guys were doing more fishing than catching. When asked how it was going they said there were a lot of sculpins which aren't typically a food fish in these parts. It is nice to see that there is at least some plentiful forms of sea life thriving in the area though.
Later on in the morning,we ran into another local sport fisherman at the local Home Hardware as he was buying a new ice-fishing rod. He said that he had caught some larger than usual smelt on the La Have River downstream from the town of Bridgewater a few days ago.

No matter what time of year it is you can always find something to do on the water around Chester. There is something for everyone but a warm Summer's day with a cool drink on a sail boat is probably the activity of choice in Chester.

CHESTER IN WINTER

2011-01-26T20:54:00.002-04:00

The view over the village from Haddon Hill on Mon. Jan. 24'th 2011. It's about -16 Celsius.

The same view today,Wed. Jan. 26'th,2011. At a balmy -3.4 Celsius. A frozen Standford Lake is visible to the lower left.

Jan. 26'th, Chester--------------------------A few photos of the Village for our Summer residents who live or work in the warmer climes. While it is very cold,the lighting,clouds and mist makes for some great views in and around the Village.

DEVELOPMENT DILEMMA :COMMUNITY SPIRIT VERSUS SALE OF SPIRITS

2011-01-23T10:35:00.030-04:00

The old Chester RCMP Detachment as it sits today at 205 Duke St. and is zoned Residential.

Chester Area Middle School on Saturday,Jan. 22'nd. The parking lot is full due to a basketball game being played at the school.

Municipal Planner Geoff MacDonald makes notes during the meeting.

27 concerned citizens attended the meeting in Council Chambers.

Chester resident Syd Dumaresq expresses his concerns on the architecture of the proposed addition to the local Save/Easy grocery store.

The Principal of Chester Area Middle School,John Burke, speaks out against changing the zoning at 205 Duke St. from Residential to Highway Commercial.

Chester resident and former RCMP officer Doug Grist reads a letter from a former Provincial Minister responsible for the Nova Scotia Liquor Control Corporation and Nova Scotia Liquor Control Act. Mr Grist is also against the zoning change.

Next we travel back in time to look at news concerning the issue almost three years ago from our files :

NO LIQUOR ON DUKE (FROM Mar. 18'th 2008)

The former RCMP detachment at 205 Duke St.

The Nova Scotia Liquor Commission retail store at the corner of Queen and Tremont Streets.

Tuesday, March 18, 2008

NO LIQUOR ON DUKE

In a late breaking news story,a prominent Chester citizen and community activist received word from a reliable Government source that the NSLC will not be moving to the former RCMP property on Duke Street.According to the source,an announcement was made by the NSLC on Monday evening concerning the issue.As many of you know,rumours and speculation were circulating around the Village as to if,when and where the liquor store may move.This announcement is welcomed by many as it will prevent a lot of ugly and unnecessary conflict in the Village.Controversy over zoning,traffic flow and the moral stigma of liquor sales across from two schools was starting to divide the community.Now we can relax for awhile as we wait and see what the future holds for the old police station.Stay tuned for the latest info.

Wednesday, March 19, 2008

NO LIQUOR ON DUKE:ADDENDUM
Mar. 19'th,Chester---------------------Earlier this morning it was confirmed by NSLC staff and the Chairman of The Board of Directors that the facility will not be leaving their Queen St. location in the Village of Chester.Peter McCreath said that due to a business decision the organization will not pursue acquisition of the former RCMP detachment at 205 Duke St.A staff spokesperson also mentioned that the zoning issue may have been a factor in the decision as well.The NSLC intends to remain at the Queen St. store for now and will renovate and improve the existing venue.Many residents in the Village will be relieved to hear this news.

Jan.23'rd,Chester---------------------------On Jan.18'th a meeting was held at Chester Municipal Council Chambers to consider changing the zoning of 205 Duke St. from Residential to Highway Commercial at the request of the property's new owner,Loblaws. They wish to add to their property that is occupied by the Save/Easy supermarket. Land use and zoning in and around Chester can be touchy at times. This case is certainly no exception. Much of the resistance stems from the fear that a liquor store may relocate to the property. As seen in the above articles from a few years back it has been an issue to local residents. Most folks do not really have a problem with the actual changing of the zoning. They just do not want a liquor store located there due to the site's proximity to the two schools across the street and at the entrance to the Village.

Moral stigma aside there are legitimate concerns over traffic problems (vehicular and pedestrian) and also the architectural appearance of the structure.

Comments from members of the public illustrated the stand against a retail liquor outlet being located on the property. CAMS Principal John Burke knows from experience,the problems that liquor use and abuse causes for families and students and feels that students do not need the source of the problem located next door across from the schools. The traffic is also a major concern for students,parents,bus drivers and teachers.

Chester resident Doug Grist is a retired Mountie who is against the change. As an Officer of the law he mentioned that he had to deal with numerous calls of customers relieving themselves in the parking lot and against the building at the NSLC store on Queen St. Even defacating in public as well as vomiting. He feels there is no reason that younger students should be exposed to such disgusting displays of human behavior.

Our sitting MLA and Community Services Minister, Hon. Denise Peterson-Rafuse also spoke out against the zoning change. She and members of her family are adjacent property owners. They are concerned about property values in the area,traffic and noise and if a standard may be set for rolling along on more zoning changes.

No one in the audience spoke in favour of the change.

After the public session of the meeting was closed,discussion began among the Councilors.

This was a little disconcerting for members of the public as one Councilor thought 205 Duke St. was already zoned Highway Commercial. Two others including the Warden did not have a firm knowledge of what the existing Architectural Controls for the area were. Chester (District 3) Councilor Brad Armstrong was questioning the traffic impact and was also concerned about the economic consequences whether the zoning were to change or not. He requested that a traffic study be conducted before a decision was made.

Besides Councilor Armstrong, 3 other Councilors and the Warden had questions and comments.

This brings up another problem :

Chester's curse as a Village is that Council representatives from outside the area can determine what happens in our community even if it is against the wishes of community members.

The process is not over yet. The zoning may or may not be changed.

V.O.C.T.A.D.A. MEETS

2011-01-22T13:45:00.004-04:00

Chester Charts Its Course committee Chair Jo-Ann Grant brings members up to speed
on the progress of projects identified in the CCIC plan for the Village.
At the table, far left, are VOCTADA Secretary Syd Dumaresq and new Chair Barb Grigsby.

Jan.20'th,Chester---------------------The 2'nd regular meeting of one of Chester's most active community groups took place with new Chairperson Barbara Grigsby at the helm. Barb is no stranger to community work and projects around the Village as she is involved with groups such as the Chester Yacht Club and the Healthy Community Resource Centre. Her energy and enthusiasm will be a good fit for VOCTADA.
This latest meeting was a sort of "getting organized for the year" session with reports from various VOCTADA committees and other community groups.
Some items of note :

An event being organized by The Chester Art Centre on Healthy Brain Aging on Apr.5'th at the Chester Playhouse. There is no charge to participate.

The Chester Garden Club is hosting the Nova Scotia Association of Garden Clubs conference from Jun.3'rd to Jun. 5'th at Oak Island Atlantica Resort with 200 delegates attending. VOCTADA gave $250.00 to the Chester Garden Club in support of the event.

The Chester Municipal Heritage society has been making history with their pace of work on several projects. Work is steadily moving along on Lordly House and Maple Cottage projects and there will be an Oak Island display set up in a room at the Chester Train Station.

A status update on a Healthy Community Resource Centre was given by one of the committee members working on the project.
Another somewhat related project that was presented via The Chester Municipal Chamber of Commerce was the possibility of working toward making Chester a model "Age Friendly" community through services and infrastructure. There is a lot of interest in this area as we face the onslaught of the aging "Baby Boomers" with their needs whether out of necessity or by choice.
Stay tuned for more VOCTADA news and events !

WINTER DRIVING ACCIDENT

2011-01-22T13:04:00.004-04:00

A bystander calls 911 just after what must have been a heart stopping moment for the driver of the pickup truck.

Emergency vehicles arrive.

The wrecking trucks get ready.

Jan.21'st,Chester-----------------A nasty winter storm made for some of the most treacherous winter driving conditions around the Village yet. This rather spectacular crash occurred near the intersection of North and King streets. Chief Leo "Duke" Chafe said Chester Volunteer Fire Department also responded to a single vehicle "roll over" on Highway #103 shortly before the above mishap. Fortunately,there were no serious injuries to vehicle occupants in either incident.
Traffic was diverted for about an hour while North Street was cleared.

We asked Chief Chafe if his Department was having any problems with motorists causing safety problems when they are responding to calls or when they are carrying out their duties at accident or fire scenes. He said it has not been an issue, so far.
Motorists are reminded that under new Motor Vehicle Act regulations, when approaching stopped emergency vehicles with flashing lights they are required to reduce speed to 60 km/hr unless the posted speed limit is lower and move into the opposite lane. Emergency vehicles include police,ambulance,fire,conservation officers and motor vehicle inspectors or motor carrier inspectors.

-14 IN CHESTER,COLDEST DAY YET

2011-01-18T09:45:00.004-04:00

Local Marine Entrepreneur Wynand "Dutch" Baerken awake to this amazing view of the Village of Chester at sunrise this morning .

Photos courtesy of "Dutch" Wynand Baerken

Jan. 18'th,Haddon Hill--------------At -14 degrees Celsius, it is the coldest day of Winter 2011 in Chester yet and heavy mist and sea smoke covered the village early this morning. Even though it is freezing,some of the views and scenery are as good or better than in the Summer. Thanks to Dutch for sending the photos along.

ENERhouse 2011 CHESTER CONNECTION

2011-01-14T01:18:00.007-04:00

The conference was held at the Westin in Halifax.

Dr. Don Shiner makes his presentation on "Marketing to Boomers and Beyond'.

Shane and Suzanne Wamboldt were getting lots of attention at the uberHome booth.

With a sunny disposition. Will Marshall conducts his "Solar Hot Water Primer".

Over 200 people filled the main conference room.

John Pece of white Dog Design Build,Chester takes in the Solar Hot Water Primer.

Le Doan from CMHC gives a presentation on "Accessible Housing by Design".

Jan.13'th,Halifax------------------------Members of the Chester Business community and the Chester Municipal Chamber of Commerce were out in force at NSHBA's ENERhouse 2011
conference in Halifax. The conference title was "The Silver Economy Aging in Place:A market with no end in sight".
The aging Baby Boomer generation is fast becoming a segment of the consumer public that all businesses will be forced to deal with no matter what. Ignore them if you want but they are not going away anytime soon. To find out more about this group of consumers,Kerry Keddy and John Pece of the Chester Chamber's Economic Development Committee attended the event to learn about the latest trends for dealing with the Boomers.
Of the 200 or so people attending the event,5 were from Chester. Also attending the conference were the folks from uberHome Technologies who hosted a booth and a workshop presentation on "Energy & Health Management for New &Existing Homes". They are also members of The Chester Municipal Chamber of Commerce,bringing local Chamber representation at the event to at least 5.
The event was mainly tailored to the homebuilding industry in the practical sense but presenters like Don Shiner Ph.D. MSVU and Le Doan,Senior Consultant Research and Information Transfer for CMHC provided invaluable information on marketing to seniors and Boomers. A quote from Prof. Shiner, " Consumers always by in the direction of their expectations." You can find out more about Dr. Shiner's work at ashra.msvu.ca/ .
Day one of ENERhouse 2011 was packed with great information to aid in understanding the next phenomenon in sales and lifestyle consumerism and marketing.
In the not too distant future,John Pece will present a talk on the information gained at this event. Fellow Chamber members and interested members of the general public will be welcome to attend. Stay tuned for details.

HERE COMES ANOTHER JUAN ?

2011-01-12T08:21:00.004-04:00

Jan.12,Off Nova Scotia---------------------Here's the infra-red image from Environment Canada's
GOES-East image bank courtesy of NOAA (National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) as of 8:30 a.m. Wednesday morning. GOES is the acronym for Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite. The storm was just hitting the tip of the province near Yarmouth on the radar image.

According to latest forecasts and considering the size of the system in the above photo, it looks like we are in for a big storm. Get ready for it.

WORKING BOATS OF CHESTER

2011-01-08T17:59:00.007-04:00

The versatile and powerful Home By The Sea pushes a barge in to the Western Shore Government wharf.

A boom truck is waiting to unload the barge.

One of the working birds around Chester. A herring gull sits on a post at the CYC wharf.

Here we see Home By The Sea steaming in from a day of lobster fishing.

Another working bird is the mallard duck seen here near CYC.

Little Peanut is another lobstering and aquaculture boat that works out of the port of Chester.

Some of the catch aboard Little Peanut.

Local Fisherman Blaine Bond displays one of the larger lobsters from his day on the water.

The waters off Chester-----------------Along with the daily runs of the Tancook Island ferry service,there is a lot of other activity on the water around Chester. From fishing and aquaculture to marine construction and in the warmer months there are the pleasure boaters in all manner of power and sail boats.
There is also the wildlife with many species of seabirds,fish and the odd mink,seal,sea otter and porpoise throughout various times of the year.

SPEED CHECK

2011-01-08T17:40:00.002-04:00

This school bus is just under the posted limit near the Valley Road/North Street intersection.

Someone is over the limit a bit but likely not enough to be ticketed.

Jan. 7'th,Chester---------------------------It has been a while since the RCMP have set up their mobile speed checking RADAR around the Village but for most of the day on Friday it was doing a pretty good job of keeping motorists in line as they came over the little knoll near the old foundry sight just before the Valley Road intersection. Most motorists were close to the limit only being slightly over the posted 50 km limit. A few were on the 60 km mark. Just about every driver was tapping the brake peddle though, as they saw their speed posted in large LED numerals on the sign. It did not appear that police were issuing tickets. So far the concept is one of educating and warning motorists.
There was also a checkpoint earlier in the day near Chester Shore Mall and there seemed to be a greater police presence around the Village well into the evening with patrols and actual radar traps set up in discreet areas.
Drive careful and thank a cop. They are only doing their job.

MEETING ON THE BRIDGE ON THE BRIDGE

2011-01-07T20:22:00.004-04:00

Members of a group of citizens concerned about the well being and preservation of Chester's Old Stone Bridge on Victoria Street meet with D.O.T.I.R. Engineer Dan Coulter to discuss the condition of the bridge.

Councilor Brad Armstrong chats with Mr. coulter

Jan. 7'th,Chester--------------------------Members of a group of local citizens had a meeting with Engineer Dan Coulter from N.S. Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Renewal. He is the bridge inspector for the Department's Western District. He has carried out the last two inspections on the old Stone Bridge. One in 2006 and the latest only a few months ago in the Autumn of 2010.
Many folks have been concerned about the state of the old bridge. Beside its practical value to allow pedestrians and vehicles to cross the stream flowing under it,the bridge is a scenic icon of Chester. Whether viewed from land or on the water in Mill Cove.
The group requested the meeting with Mr. Coulter to hear details of his assessment of the bridge and to ask him questions regarding their concerns. They wish to protect and preserve the bridge for the future. The major concern was the issue of weight on the bridge. Without getting too scientific and technical,Mr. Coulter explained how wheel and axle weights of vehicles are transferred to and through the road bed and the earth under it. If you recall your basic geometry and physics from school days,the arch is one of the strongest structures that mankind discovered and built. At over 130 years of age,the old bridge's arch is a tribute to its survival as a working bridge today. If there is any worry about the condition of the bridge,one should look closely at the side stone walls that hold up and contain the roadway on either end of the bridge. Over time,there has been noticeable movement of these walls but not near enough to cause safety concerns or damage to the bridge.
Bridges in Nova Scotia are typically inspected on a rotational basis every five years. Their condition is based on a scale of 0 to 9 with 0 being a failure and 9 being the highest rating. Mr. Coulter explained that there are no #9's. Even a new bridge on opening day warrants an 8.
9 cannot be achieved due to such things as settling and minor naturally occurring flaws in concrete,steel or timbers. 0 is a failure and such bridges are either replaced or closed down until they can be repaired or replaced.
Chester's Old Stone bridge gets a 6 which puts it in good condition and in the top 1/3 of the Western District's over 1400 bridges. 2/3 of the Western District bridges are in very serviceable condition while the lower 1/3 are watched closely and are repaired or replaced as the need arises.
Considering it was built in 1880, our old bridge is in great shape for the shape it is in.

FIRE AND ICE ?

2011-01-06T22:43:00.002-04:00

In a red glow,three trucks from Chester Volunteer Fire Department prepare to stage for a response to smoke in the building at the Church Park rink complex.

Jan. 5'th,Chester---------------------A Wednesday evening fire alarm signaled a call-out to the local rink complex due to smoke and fumes in the building. Members of the Curling Club said that there had been some issues with the furnace and that is what caused them to call CVFD after seeing a smokey haze and smelling fumes in the building.
At the time,they believed that it would be necessary to ventilate the building so that members could resume their sporting activities.

GOOD-BYE '010,HELLO '011

2011-01-06T22:18:00.002-04:00

From Scotty and the gang at the Fo'c'sle...........

to Al Chaddock seen here raising a toast and enjoying a cigar on the deck at CYC, folks all over the Village were celebrating New Year's Day at the many levees held in Chester.

Jan. 1'st, Chester---------------------2011 came in like a lamb in terms of the weather. It was a perfect day to walk around the Village and take in any or all of the levees being held to welcome the New Year in.
By far the most popular event was the buffet at the Fo'c'sle. If you went early it was a relatively relaxed atmosphere where you could enjoy a quiet meal with friends. Later in the afternoon it was 5 deep end to end at the bar and the rest of the place was crowded.
If you really wanted to relax, members of CYC hosted their annual levee with a warm fire inside the Club House. It was nice enough outside for many of the sailors to be wishing they were on the water.
The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #44 and The Chester Playhouse also held levees in Chester.

CHESTER CHRISTMAS MORNING 2010

2010-12-25T22:43:00.004-04:00

Above and below,the sunrise from Freda's Beach.

The Nova Scotia Highlander remains on guard over the Village at the Cenotaph.

The bandstand just after sunrise.

Freda's Point from CYC.

It almost looks like Summer from the Chester Yacht Club wharf.

CYC reflects.

Notes from the last race.

The CYC "buoys of Summer".

All is quiet along Queen Street.

Dec.24'th,Chester------------------Here's a few photos from around the Village for anyone who couldn't make it home to Chester for Christmas. And for the Summer residents who are missing some unusually great weather. A few visitors from away and some locals have experienced far worse weather than we have been having. Snow and cold in Britain,heavy rains in the U.S. and other areas of Canada and generally cooler temperatures in many other parts of the world are making us realize that Chester is not so bad this winter. So far. It looks like we are in for a wet Nor' Easter on Monday though.
Enjoy Boxing Day before going back to work or scrambling off to the sales.

CHESTER DREAMS OF A WHITE CHRISTMAS

2010-12-24T23:59:00.005-04:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS GULLS AND BUOYS FROM chesterns.ca

Dec.24'th,Chester-------------------A seagull swims along in Chester Harbour in water that looks more like Summer than Winter and chesterns.ca thanks Chester native Bethany Keddy for the Christmassy colurs of the buoy photo taken on Nova Scotia's South Shore in the Summer of '09.

And so it looks like we won't have a white Christmas in these parts. It's been a while since we've had a Winter like this one in Chester but we'll take it. At least it will be easier and safer to visit with friends and family over the holidays.
To help get you in the holiday spirit,chesterns.ca thanks Suzi Fraser from The Mecklenburgh Inn and The Chester Merchants Group for bringing this little video to our attention. Click HERE

IN SEARCH OF...A GIANT CHRISTMAS TREE

2010-12-24T18:13:00.010-04:00

It's a bright sunny morning and the parking lot at Karl Levy's Christmas Tree lot is not too
crowded yet.

After a bit of a hike this couple find the perfect tree. It's a big one. You'll find out why later.

captainkidd gets ready with the power saw.

The tree is almost 16 feet long and took two to drag it to the path.

The tree waits for the buggy to haul it out.

Homeowner Robin Morash gets help from Karl's woodlot assistant to get the tree to the trailer.

After a hike in the cool weather,it's time for some hot chocolate or cider courtesy of Karl's wife Bernice.

The tree is ready to be put on a truck.

Karl and Bernice have been a local institution in the CUT-YOUR-OWN Christmas tree experience in these parts. Folks come from all over for their lovely trees.

Now you know why Robin wanted a big tree. Here he begins decorating by placing the traditional Angel on the top of the tree.

The smile says it all. Even with just the Angel on it the tree is impressive.

When the tree is trimmed out,the view from the balcony is spectacular.

Dec. 18'th,Sherwood and East River------------------------Last week it was time to go Christmas tree hunting with some friends. Robin Morash and Katherine Lapeyrolerie have a new vacation home near Chester. It features a great room with a high ceiling so a large tree was in order.
Where do you go for a big tree in Chester ?
Levy's Cut-Your-Own in Sherwood,of course.

There was only a very light dusting of snow on the ground. It hardly felt like Winter or Christmas but a light freeze-up made for easy walking over the frozen mud and shell ice along the trail. The biggest trees were near the back of the lot so a little hiking was necessary to get to the right tree. Luckily, Karl has the gear and the helpers to get a tree out of the woods easily. Even with a decent snow cover,it would have been a tough haul to bring a tree like Robin's out of the woods.

The tree cost a reasonable $20.00. Robin is from Baton Rouge and he said if he could even get a tree that large at a typical nursery or seasonal tree lot it would probably cost at least $150.00.
Thanks to a local Church,Mr.Morash was able to borrow a large step ladder to aid in decorating the great tree. The usual Christmas tree stand wouldn't cut it for this monster of a tree so a large plastic tub full of gravel solved the problem of supporting it and allowing for easy watering. This tree drinks about 12 litres a day. Even though it looks like we won't be having a white Christmas, Robin and Katherine are certainly in the Christmas spirit in a big way thanks to Karl and Bernice Levy who can supply any size and number of trees you may need. Make a note for next Christmas.

DOLLARWISE INVESTMENT ADVICE - MORTGAGE LIFE INSURANCE

2010-12-20T15:27:00.006-04:00

If you have a mortgage, you probably have mortgage insurance. It's simply the right thing to do. You want to protect what is likely your biggest asset and ensure your family is not burdened by mortgage debt when you pass to the great beyond.

So, you're doing the right thing by having mortgage insurance. Are you managing it the right way? If your mortgage insurance is through your bank, possibly not.

Imagine the reading of your will …."I leave my worldly goods to my cherished spouse/niece/grandson….and I leave the proceeds of my Life Insurance to my cherished banker.”

Huh??? How could this happen????

Well, if you have mortgage insurance through a bank or other lender, your lender owns the policy and pays off the mortgage if you die. Your beneficiary has no choice in how the funds are used. And, in the case of some lending institutions, payment is not guaranteed.

So, why is payment not guaranteed?

When you take out life insurance with a recognized agent, you go through a process of qualification, known as ‘underwriting.’ Depending upon your age and circumstances, you may or may not need some medical tests. Once you have received your policy, and given you've honestly answered questions and pay your premiums, you are insured, and guaranteed that benefits will be paid.

Not necessarily so with mortgage insurance from a bank or other lender. Most banks and lending institutions don't underwrite until it's time to pay out. That means the mortgage insurance for which you have so virtuously been paying may be kaput if you were not initially eligible…there may be no money and no payout.

And if they do pay? The money goes to the bank/lender to pay off the mortgage.

Hmmmm…..do I want my life insurance payout going to my bank, or do I want it to go to my family? Paying off the mortgage may not be the most urgent need at this difficult time. Your beneficiaries may instead need a monthly income, or to pay down debt such as credit cards or lines of credit. Personal life insurance gives your loved ones the flexibility to choose how to use the funds to best meet their needs.

Among the many additional advantages of personal life insurance, you also have the option of moving your mortgage to another lending institution to take advantage of a better rate without risk of having to medically re-qualify. As well, your coverage does not decrease as you pay down your mortgage, as it does with mortgage insurance. And you can choose the life insurance product that works best for you. There are many options, including term or permanent insurance, level premiums for 10 years, 20 years, or over your lifetime.

To learn more about mortgage life insurance, talk to your financial advisor or email
thechesterinvestor@gmail.com

FROM CHESTER WITH LOVE ?

2010-12-16T00:16:00.008-04:00

The Bard himself (Malcolm Callaway) watches the dress rehearsal of the latest creation in his holiday series.

The Bond character (L) in a scene with another cast member.

Regular audience members will recognize these regular performers on The Chester playhouse stage.

It has been a while since George Evans (Left) performed on the Playhouse stage.It is great to see him here as Q explaining his invention to another apparent Bond character.

Only Callaway could put a Klingon princess in a Bond themed performance and get away with it.

Q at work.

Dec.15'th,Chester------------------------We caught a bit of the dress rehearsal for "Now Dasher,now Dancer..." which is another installment in local playwright Malcolm Callaway's holiday fare. It's double-oh-no this year as Malcolm shows no mercy to the Bond franchise.
For the short period we sat in on the performance for some promo photos,there were a lot of laughs . Some slapstick and excellent wordplay along with the deliveries of the performers.
There is some incredible singing as well.

Over the years ,Callaway has polished a knack for writing parts to suit the local characters who perform his works. Like the old "which came first,the chicken or the egg?" riddle,one has to wonder if Callaway writes first and asks his actors to perform later or if he draws them in and then writes the part around them. So far,it seems to work either way. Keep in mind also that Chester has a lot of serious amateur talent that loves a stage and an audience.
We are sure you will get a laugh out of this show. And you will get an even bigger laugh if you happen to know any of the performers personally.

The show runs Thurs. through Sat. The The 8:00 p.m. Sat. show is almost sold out but there is still a good selection for Opening night and Friday's performance,both at 8:00 p.m.

Blow,blow,thou winter wind...There's method in the madness... Get thee to the Chester Playhouse...I digress.

CALLAWAY PLAY A CHESTER TRADITION

2010-12-14T21:28:00.002-04:00

(Click on poster to enlarge)

It's baaack!!! Whether you believe that Clement Clark Moore or Henry Livingston Jr. wrote "A Visit From St. Nicholas" one thing is for sure,Chester artist and playwright Malcolm Callaway always puts a humourous and "twisted" twist on the Christmas story based loosely on the popular traditional Christmas poem.

It looks like a "Double 0" Christmas this year if the poster is any indication of what to expect.
We hear that the Saturday evening late show is almost sold out. Thursday and Friday evening performances still have seats available.
The thing is the play.
Check it out.

RUN,RUN AS FAST AS YOU CAN, TO SEE THE GINGERBREAD HOUSES,MAN.....

2010-12-13T20:29:00.004-04:00

Debra Housser and Victoria MacGregor's replica of the Peggy's Cove Lighthouse in gingerbread is on display at Lesley's Pantry at the entrance to the Village of Chester. Drop in and let the lighthouse guide you on The Chester Gingerbread Festival tour.

The Lighthouse at Bubblegum Island by Silas Hume in the childrens division of the Festival is on display at Wayward Books,the best little bookshop in Chester.

Dec.13'th,Chester---------------------There are six days left to check out the great Chester Gingerbread Festival gingerbread house entries. Along with the lighthouses pictured above,there are seven other confectionery creations of architecture in miniature scattered throughout the Village at various local merchants.
Head to Chester to see the rest at Amicus Gallery, Light My Fire, Village Emporium, Lucia,and Kiwi Too! where you can vote for your favorite and also bid on a chance to own one of the wonderful creations. A fine showpiece for the holidays !

The "icing on the event" is the announcing of the contest winners and auction winners at the Fo'c'sle Dec. 19'th from 2 to 5 P.M. That's also when Sandy's Holiday Christmas Cookie Contest and Auction will take place. Thank you "Sandy Claus" !!!
All proceeds from each event will go to benefit the local Lighthouse Food Bank.

What irony !
We brought you the photos of the two lighthouses in the contest which will benefit a local charity featuring the word lighthouse in its name !!
Did the builders of the lighthouses realize this deliberately or is it mere coincidence !!!
You be the judge !!!!

We hope to bring you more pictures this week but in the meantime, get out and see them in person and shop for some great gifts from Chester for those on your Christmas list.

V.O.C.T.A.D.A. AGM

2010-12-12T08:00:00.006-04:00

Phil Ellwood conducts his last meeting as Chair of VOCTADA.

Outgoing Chair Phil Ellwood and Treasurer Becky Scott with VOCTADA's certificate of appreciation issued by The Municipality of The District of Chester.

Nov.26'th,Chester-------------------------At the VOCTADA AGM members were brought up to date on the projects and concerns of the group. From the public washroom project to Chester Charts Its Course along with reports from the Tree Committee and other Community groups.
VOCTADA's new Chair will be Barb Grigsby. Syd Dumaresq remains as Secretary and Becky Scott remains as Treasurer.

CHESTER MUNICIPAL CHAMBER of COMMERCE AGM

2010-12-08T19:56:00.000-04:00

The Warden of the Municipality of The District of Chester swears in the Presidents of the local Chamber of Commerce. (L to R) Daren Nauss 2'nd VP, Ben Wiper President, Jenna Creaser 1'st VP and Warden Allen Webber.

Nov.16'th,Chester----------------------------The Chester Municipal Chamber of Commerce held their AGM at the Captain's House. The new executive was presented and sworn in. The President reported on a successful year for the business group. The Chamber is responsible for running the Chester Visitor Information Centre and advocating for many issues concerning local business owners and operators. From signage to zoning and development,the Chamber works with all levels of Government to achieve benefits for local businesses and therefore the local consumer as well.
Buy local and support local businesses in your home community.

HOME TEAM CLIPPERS BACK HOME THIS WEEK-END

2010-12-03T17:05:00.003-04:00

The Chester Clippers are back in Chester this week-end. The game will feature a ceremonial opening puck drop by two soldiers who recently returned home from a tour of duty in Afghanistan.
Come on out and support the troops and your local Home Team,The Chester Clippers.

C.A.C. KITCHEN PARTY KICKS OFF GINGERBREAD FESTIVAL

2010-11-25T20:21:00.018-04:00

An example of one of the gingerbread houses that will be featured in the festival contest.

A group of local musicians warm up the joint.

What's this ? Find out later.

Folks begin to line up for the food. Ham,baked beans,fishcakes and of course...gingerbread for desert.

Not the party part but the kitchen part. Trudi and Barb are busy serving up the vittles.

Barb Grigsby hamming it up ?

( L to R) Barb Grigsby,Paula Booher, Karen Hooper, Beverley McInnes and Wayne Cameron at your service.

Chester Art Centre Board Chair Wayne Grigsby presents the big event of the evening as he introduces artist Holly Carr,seen preparing for her performance in the background..

The artist and musicians are almost ready.

The first lines are drawn.

A little more detail......

And now some colour.....

The picture takes shape.

Remember,she's painting backwards.

It's a sailing mermaid.....

Playing a fiddle.

It's a whirl of brushes and paint behind the scene.

Close up.

What a work-out.

Wayne thanks Holly.

Dolly Hancock,Trudi Curley and Erin Gore share their fantastic smiles.

Artist Holly Carr poses with her latest work.

Another kind of artist. Old Man Luedecke was the main musical entertainment for the evening.

Through the window pane.

Peggy Wilson and Wayne Grigsby strike a pose.

Old Man Luedecke plays his encore.

The Chester Bandstand is silent but beautiful as we head for home.

Nov. 13'th, Chester----------------------The Chester Art Centre held their first kitchen party with great food,amazing music and of course some incredible art. The event was a fundraiser for the Art Centre and also the kick off for the Chester Gingerbread festival. A sell out crowd enjoyed a traditional meal of ham,baked beans,fishcakes and bread and butter.
The highlights of the evening were artist Holly Carr painting to music on a large silk "canvas". The audience was mesmerized by the performance. Her work was auctioned off with proceeds going to the CAC.
The other big event featured renowned banjo player and songster Old Man Luedecke playing songs old and new from his own repertoire.
Another point that must be made is that even with such a large crowd,the event still felt like an intimate kitchen party just like you might have in your own home. Along with all the fine entertainment, folks really enjoyed the company of each other as well.
Don't forget the Gingerbread Festival. You have until noon Nov. 27'th to submit your entry. If you don't have the time or talent to submit an entry,then come on down to the Fo'c'sle on Dec. 19'th for the judging and auction. Auction proceeds will be donated to The Lighthouse Food Bank. So bake or buy for a good cause.

MOUNTAIN MAN of CHESTER MAKE-A-WISH BENEFIT AUCTION

2010-11-24T06:38:00.003-04:00

(click on poster to enlarge)

The photographer at work on Meisner Island.

The image has been captured.

Nov. 24'th, Chester-----------------------Local realtor Tim Harris has set a goal to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro on Jan. 4'th,2011. He will be funding his trip out of his own pocket.
Many sick and ill children have dreams and goals like Tim does but in many cases they cannot afford to realize them. So Tim Harris IS TRYING TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE. For some time now,Tim has mastered the art of Panoramic photography and is putting a selection of his work up for auction to benefit Make-A-Wish Atlantic Canada with 100% of the auction proceeds going to the cause.
For more information and to make a bid,click here .

To find out more about Make-A-Wish see http://www.makeawish-atl.ca/

UNSUNG HEROES

2010-11-23T09:02:00.004-04:00

(click on poster to enlarge)

An evening of music,drumming and storytelling honoring ALL Veterans including African-Nova Scotian, Aboriginal, and Merchant Marines who served and gave so much during the Great Wars
and later conflicts. The evening will feature a unique blend of music from different cultures,drumming and spoken word.
A free-will offering will be collected to benefit a cross-cultural youth program.