Chris’ Picks For September 2024: Superhero Month
Elizabeth’s Books, in the heart of the Town of Lunenburg’s bookselling district,…
Jesse Ward
Editor-In-Chief Emeritus
Chris’ Picks For August 2024: Local Film Month
Elizabeth’s Books, in the heart of the Town of Lunenburg’s bookselling district,…
Lunenburg Mayor Requested Statement From Indigenous Leader Saying They Approve Renaming Cornwallis Street To Queen Street, Emails Show
(Photo: Jesse Ward) Emails obtained by the Lunenburg Barnacle through a Freedom…
BON VIVANT, BAD VIVANT: Born, But Unprepared, To Muffin Run
A motivational quote I appreciate from the Greek poet Archilochus: “We don’t…
ADVICEBURG: Needing To Save Money In Lunenburg County
"Between not wanting to drink as much these days and needing to save money, how do I tell my friends I still want to hang out, just not at the bar? What else can we do in the area?"
Town Of Lunenburg Declines Questions About New Senior Policy Role, Says Hiring Practices And Salary Bands Are Confidential
(Town of Lunenburg Town Hall. Photo: Jesse Ward) The Town of Lunenburg…
Municipality of Chester Polling District Boundaries To Remain Consistent in 2024 Election
For up-to-date information on who is running for election in every municipality…
MODL’s Polling Boundaries Will Change in October, See Our Interactive Comparison
For up-to-date information on who is running for election in every municipality…
Government Documents Reveal What Happened To Our Beloved Foghorn
If you only moved to Lunenburg within the last several years, it’s possible you may have never heard the mournful Battery Point foghorn.
BON VIVANT, BAD VIVANT: All Watched Ogre By Machines Of Loving Grace
I decide to see the final film to play at the Bridgewater Cineplex. When I see it will be a special 20th anniversary screening of Shrek 2, I know it would be impossible for it to be anything else.
What Are People From Bridgewater Called?
Preparing our May cover story, our editors faced the question – “What should you call people from Bridgewater?”
Chris’ Picks For May 2024: Submarine Month
"April is Submarine Month," says Chris.
CROSSWORD: The Understudy’s Debut
Introducing Barnacle Election Central: Your Source For Lunenburg County Municipal Election Updates
(Illustration: Carmen Cumming) This October, the people of Lunenburg County – you! –…
“Tonight Was The First Time Any Of Us Were Seeing The Budget,” Says Lunenburg Mayor On Day Of Vote For Operating Budget
The 24/25 draft Operating Budget is the largest in Lunenburg's history at $10,825,000. Council is expected to vote on approving the budget at their upcoming May 14 meeting.
Lunenburg Councillor Raises Concerns On Increase In RCMP Spending – Town Researching Alternatives
“I still don’t feel we get enough coverage for paying $65,500 additional this year, and since ‘22 we’ve been increased by $122,924, and I do not see any additional coverage or support," said Councillor Jenni Birtles.
Chasidy Veinotte, MODL District 10 Councillor, Confirms She Will Reoffer In October
Chasidy Veinotte, Councillor for District 10 in the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg, has announced she intends to reoffer in the October municipal election.
Lunenburg CAO Apologizes For Comments Accidentally Livestreamed During Private Meeting – Council Cancels Plans For Emergency Meeting
Mayor Jamie Myra told the Barnacle on Thursday morning, before the CAO’s apology was published, that Town Council planned to have an emergency meeting in the evening regarding this issue, but this was cancelled.
Lunenburg Mayor Jamie Myra Confirms He Is Reoffering In October Election
Jamie Myra, Mayor of the Town of Lunenburg, has confirmed to The Barnacle he intends to reoffer for his position in October.
Lunenburg County’s Municipal Election Results, From October 2020 to Today
To help you understand recent decisions made by voters in our communities that led to the councils we have today, The Barnacle has done the work of gathering Lunenburg County's municipal election results from the last four years in one central, convenient location for you.
Lunenburg Councillor Susan Sanford Announces She Will Not Reoffer In October
Susan Sanford, Councillor in the Town of Lunenburg, has confirmed she is not reoffering for election in the October Municipal Election.
Ben Brooks Announces Candidacy For MODL District 9
First out of the gates in Lunenburg County for the October 2024 municipal election is Ben Brooks, announcing his candidacy for District 9 in the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg.
Elspeth McLean-Wile Announces Candidacy For Mayor of MODL
Elspeth McLean-Wile, local businesswoman, announced her candidacy for Mayor of the Municipality of the District of Lunenburg on April 9.
Town of Lunenburg Scheduled to Vote On 2024/25 Operating Budget This Tuesday
The process surrounding this year’s budget is a marked departure from previous years, where the budget would be reviewed by the Committee Of The Whole before proceeding to a Council meeting.
Lunenburg Council Makes Portion of Blockhouse Hill Surplus In Surprise Vote
Mayor Myra said he voted against making the land surplus because he said he would first need to see design options include off-street parking for some additional number of units, which might require more land than the land in question for the motion.
Chris’ Picks for April 2024: Humphrey Bogart Month
Elizabeth’s Books, in the heart of the Town of Lunenburg’s bookselling district,…
Volume 2, Issue 4 is here!
With the release of our fifteenth issue, we're introducing our first two newspaper boxes to the commercial centres of Lunenburg County – now you can find us in front of Pearl's Vintage & Thrift on King St. in Lunenburg, and Rascal's Burrito Bar on King St. in Bridgewater.
New Lunenburg restaurant Lightwright attracts tourists seeking Shipwright, Lightship (April Fools)
The Barnacle was on the scene for a special opening party on April 1, where the conversation was lukewarm and confused.
Canadian Heritage Minister offers collaboration on Lunenburg’s pitch for UNESCO funding
The Barnacle was present for the Minister of Canadian Heritage’s first visit to Lunenburg, when Pascale St-Onge met with Town of Lunenburg leadership at Town Hall on Monday.
Lunenburg CAO Jamie Doyle announces resignation
The Town of Lunenburg announced Wednesday that Jamie Doyle, Chief Administrative Officer has tendered his resignation, effective May 10, 2024.
Chris’ Picks for March 2024: Errol Flynn Month
"March is Errol Flynn month," says Chris.
News Briefs: March 2024
You can proceed with building the luxury seasonal beachfront condo you’re dreaming of without getting a red stamp from any pesky planners telling you, “No, it’s going to collapse into the ocean in ten years.”
A Barnacle Jaunt to Lunenburg, Vermont
Lunenburg, Vermont – population 1,246. Large old Cape Cods engulfed by rolling waves of evergreens – subject of Robert Frost’s The Mountain.
Chris’ Picks For February 2024: Alfred Hitchcock Month
”February is Alfred Hitchcock month,” says Chris.
Volume 2, Issue 2 is here!
For the second February ever, The Barnacle is here with more hyperlocal Lunenburg County stories to keep you connected and entertained.
Lunenburg Mayor Jamie Myra addresses vision for proceeding with Blockhouse Hill ahead of vote on whether to make lands surplus
When Town of Lunenburg Council meets on Tuesday evening, they are expected to vote on whether to determine lands on Blockhouse Hill surplus. They will also vote on whether to proceed with drafting development rules for a 256-unit housing development on the site.
Artist Seeks Lunenburg Cats To Paint for Community Printmaking Event
If you live in the Town of Lunenburg and have a cat, Allison Tremain wants to paint them and gift you a watercolour.
Lunenburg Council Replaces Deputy Mayor In Surprise Vote Based on Cornwallis Street Renaming Comments, Remote Meeting Attendance
In an interview, Councillor Peter Mosher explained his motivations for removing Ed Halverson from the position of Deputy Mayor include Halverson publicly saying council “got it wrong” when they voted to rename Cornwallis Street to Queen Street in late November, and attending three consecutive council meetings remotely via Zoom instead of in person.
Valentine’s Day Sale: Place Your Personal Ad In The Barnacle
Seeking friendship, romance or the love of your life? Send in your 40-word ad and $10 to editor@thebarnacle.ca with the subject “Personals” by Feb. 2. Your personal will be placed in our next print issue being distributed across Lunenburg County on Feb. 8.
Lunenburg confirms report informing Council on Cornwallis Street renaming misrepresented survey data and omitted 103 comments
The Town of Lunenburg has confirmed the report that informed Town Council on their decision to rename Cornwallis Street to Queen Street in November – produced at a cost of $2,000 by a consultant – misrepresented survey results data.
Volume 1, Issue 11 has arrived!
We're so grateful for our volunteers, patrons and readers – you! – as we celebrate one year since our inception. Find out what we've got in store for December.
Gettin’ Twiggy With It: Twig The Elf a New Ross Christmas Sensation
During a torrential downpour and 80 kilometre an hour winds over the final Saturday in November, about a dozen New Rossers celebrated the opening of Twig The Elf’s Chalet.
Chris’ Picks for December 2023: An Alan Rickman Christmas (Plus Bonus Picks)
For the month of December, Chris recommends two Christmas films showcasing very different sides of the late and great Alan Rickman.
Proposal For Rockweed Harvesting In Lunenburg County Must Be Restarted Due To Error In Public Notice
An application process by Scotia Garden Seafood Inc. to renew an existing lease for rockweed harvesting in Lunenburg County for 15 years is invalidated and must be restarted as a result of an error in their public notice, reopening a period where the public will be able to make objections to the application.
Kingsburg Coastal Conservancy Calls For Public Objections to Rockweed Harvesting Proposal
The Kingsburg Coastal Conservancy (KCC) is calling for immediate public action in response to a proposed 15-year lease for rockweed harvesting along the Lunenburg County coastline.
Lunenburg votes to replace colonial legacy of Cornwallis Street with Queen Street
Lunenburg’s signs for Cornwallis Street will be taken down and replaced with Queen Street, replacing one reminder of our bloody colonial origins selected in the mid-18th century with one voted on by Town Council on Tuesday.
Guinea pigs in need: Bridgewater volunteer seeks fosters amidst housing crisis
Hande Barutcuoglu usually hosts three pairs of guinea pigs and fosters out about six. Those numbers are almost three times higher right now, as her intake waitlist grows. The difference from last year? Our housing crisis.
A Mari Usque Ad Mare, to the Lunenburg Halloween Punk Show
Halloween is when we put on special costumes in the place of the ones we normally wear. In French, “a business suit” is “un costume d’affaires” – “a Halloween costume” is “un costume d’Halloween”.
Chris’ Picks for November 2023: Military Film Month
Elizabeth’s Books, in the heart of the Town of Lunenburg’s bookselling district,…
Bridgewater protestors call for ceasefire in Gaza
A large crowd turned out for a rally in Bridgewater demanding a ceasefire in Gaza last week on Sunday, October 29.
PET OF THE YEAR: Mural Would Memorialize Mini the Cat
"Mini was part of the community. She came to our restaurant every morning, she was part of the family."
Volume 1, Issue 9 has arrived!
We’re entering the season in Lunenburg County where fisherman’s sweaters are pulled…
A South Shore Oktoberfest Odyssey
Most of my recent dancing has been casual and uncoordinated, at DJ Mommy’s equinoctial Lunenburg Legion raves. I never considered pursuing lessons until chance led me to an opportunity to participate in South Shore Oktoberfest.
Chris’ Picks for October 2023: Horror Month
"I've got nine horror films for October," says Chris.
Knot Trivia Leaderboard: Oct. 6, 2023
Every Wednesday, Lunenburg’s most knowledgeable and curious gather for Trivia with Joelle…
South Shore Sustainability Summit Offers Opportunity to Connect on Climate
If our recent historic fires and flooding have you considering how you can engage with the climate crisis, mark your calendar for the South Shore Sustainability Summit.
An outrageous, unadvertisable night at The Ovens
"A show so outrageous – (some might even say controversial) – we are not allowed to advertise it.” Thus read the August 26 entertainment listing at the Ovens Natural Park’s Ol’ Miner Diner.
Chris’ Picks for September 2023: Michael Caine Month
“September is Michael Caine Month,” says Chris. Born Maurice Joseph Micklewhite, Sir Michael Caine has appeared in more than 160 films, including September’s top picks.
TIME MACHINE: A Very Handsome Trowel For Ex-Mayor Wolff
Ex-Mayor Wolff, was the recipient at Middleton Monday of a very handsome and valuable trowel, the gift of the Board of Trade at Middleton, in recognition of the corner stone of the McDonald Consolidated School Building at that place.
A news chat with MP Rick Perkins on the Online News Act
In a conversation with Rick Perkins, Member of Parliament for South Shore—St. Margarets, he In the ensuing conversation, he shared his thoughts on the Online News Act and the role of the CBC in Canada’s digital media landscape.
Port Medway’s new spot for groceries and gathering: Rosefinch Mercantile and Tea Room
“People are telling us that was the first time in 200 years that the town didn't have a little grocery store,” says co-proprietor Audra Williams.
The data is out: see who voted in Lunenburg’s mayoral by-election
One person voted between 4 and 4:59 a.m., and it was on the last day of voting. They may have finally formed their decision in a dream.
OPINION: Bill C-18 hypocritical in face of taxpayer-funded news placement service
If the federal government wants to ensure Canadian news media outlets get paid their fair share, I will suggest some low-hanging fruit as a starting point: stop spending taxpayer money on a publicity company to produce your own news stories and distribute them to editors who could benefit from advertising dollars.
Mayor Myra: Board of Trade President Jamie Myra voted next Mayor of the Town of Lunenburg
Jamie Myra spoke with The Barnacle about what he thinks it means that he won the election for Mayor of the Town of Lunenburg, and what comes next.
Volume 1, Issue 7 is here!
Check out everything the Barnacle has got for August – stories on cricket, climate, Queer Pride and more.
Lunenburg makes development decisions days before Mayoral election
The Town of Lunenburg Council met on Wednesday and approved $76,000 in new spending for an RFP for designs to revamp the Town's Civic Square – maybe with underground parking and a new building – four days before a new Mayor is elected. Read our full roundup of the August 8 council meeting.
Virtual Trivia With Joelle Gogol: August 2023
With summer comes The Knot’s trivia off-season – but fret not, fact lovers, Trivia with Joelle resumes in September. To tide you over until then, practice for the upcoming 23/24 season with these trivia questions provided by Joelle Gogol herself!
Chris’ Picks for August 2023: Western Month
“August is Western Month,” says Chris.
Mayoral hopefuls share visions for leading Lunenburg at The Barnacle’s candidates’ debate
More than 150 community members packed into the Lunenburg Fire Hall for a Mayoral candidates’ debate hosted by The Lunenburg Barnacle. Watch the recording and read the transcript here.
Community Celebrates Work Towards Reopening of Second Story Women’s Centre
Approximately sixty people gathered in the Lunenburg Fire Hall two weeks ago and raised sparkling cider in a toast to Second Story Women’s Centre, as the organisation continues a process of rebuilding and aims to re-open by the end of summer after temporarily closing this February.
Bon Vivant, Bad Vivant: Let Bridgewater be the Paris of Nova Scotia
Bridgewater Mayor David Mitchell should be applauded for directing town staff to explore allowing alcohol consumption in designated outdoor public areas, which would make Bridgewater the Paris of Nova Scotia.
Chris’ Picks for July 2023: Will Ferrell Month
“June is Will Ferrell month,” says Chris. “He’s quite funny.”
What Nova Scotia Hot Summer 2023 Playlist Are You?
Sometimes it seems like all of the fancy music streaming services out…
Lunenburg aims for autumn to share results of Cornwallis Street renaming survey
The Town of Lunenburg estimates results of a survey to rename Cornwallis…
Gale Fullerton, Lunenburg Yacht Club General Manager, announces bid for Mayor
Fullerton shared a release with media contacts today detailing her announcement. Her release says she will "focus on responsive leadership and effective communication for the best possible future of the Town of Lunenburg."
Councillor Ed Halverson steps down from Mayoral race, citing time commitments
With Halverson out of the race, the only person who has publicly announced their intention to run for Mayor in the August Special Election is Jamie Myra.
LUNENBURG COUNCIL ROUNDUP: Town selects MacKay-Lyons for Blockhouse Hill designs despite councillor’s call to postpone, silence on petition signed by third of electorate
Council is pursuing residential designs for Blockhouse Hill and Upper King Street, and accepted a petition from Friends of Blockhouse Hill signed by 679 people without discussion.
Meet Cheepie, Basil and Eihwaz, the free-flight Budgies of Bridgewater
Living with free-flying birds in the home means becoming part of the flock – just ask Cheepie.
Chris’ Picks for June 2023: Robin Williams Month
“June is Robin Williams Month,” says Chris. “I’ve been a fan ever since he was on Mork and Mindy.”
LUNENBURG VOTES 2023: Special Election to be held August 12, Councillor Halverson and Board of Trade President Myra intend to run for Mayor
Lunenburgers will decide their next Mayor, and likely a new councillor, at the height of summer – The Town of Lunenburg is holding a Special Election on August 12, 2023.
Town of Lunenburg CAO warns of long-term financial outlook, lists tens of millions in anticipated costs to maintain assets
Lunenburg's CAO emphasized the need for the Town to have a comprehensive financial plan rather than “running year-by-year, crisis-by-crisis,” in a report listing tens of millions in anticipated capital spending.
Lunenburg Town Council approves 23/24 operating budget to disapproving gallery, addresses Friends of Blockhouse Hill
As Council gathered to approve the town’s 23/24 operational budget and a presentation by Friends of Blockhouse Hill, a majority of the audience who attended in person made their disapproval of Town’s handling of these issues outwardly apparent.
Meet Gitzo, Lunenburg’s three-legged long-haired cat
Make sure to say hello when you see this leashed, cow-patterned cat hopping along the streets of Lunenburg – Gitzo is a very friendly guy.
Chris’ Picks for May 2023: Captains Courageous (1937), Captain Blood (1935), The Captain’s Paradise (1953)
“This is Captain’s Month,” says Chris.
Town of Lunenburg increases spending on planning and development, new staff in 2023/24 budget
Anticipating an increase of more than $1.2 million in revenue, the Town of Lunenburg’s operating budget to be approved by council next week sees a significant increase in funding for staff salaries and $175,000 for planning on the development of Blockhouse Hill.
Matt Risser, outgoing Mayor of the Town of Lunenburg: The Barnacle Interview
Matt Risser, Mayor of the Town of Lunenburg, invited The Barnacle for an interview in Lunenburg Town Hall, held on the morning of April 25.
What is your Lunenburg County Dungeons and Dragons Class?
The time might come in your life where you wonder – if I want to roleplay what another Lunenburg County life would be like, what is the best class to choose to fulfill that fantasy in Dungeons in Dragons?
Chris’ Picks for April 2023: Quigley Down Under (1990), Billy Budd (1962), The Sound of Music (1965)
An American cowboy in Australia, a nautical mutiny adapted from the author of Moby Dick, and a musical about a family in Austria all have something in common with Lunenburg.
Town of Lunenburg says they cannot say why they are pursuing sale of Lunenburg Academy
The Town of Lunenburg says they cannot speak to why they are pursuing sale of the Lunenburg Academy building, because this decision was made during a private “in camera” meeting of Town Council.
Matt Risser announces resignation as Mayor of the Town of Lunenburg
Matt Risser is resigning as Mayor of the Town of Lunenburg, the Town of Lunenburg has announced in a release.
Town of Lunenburg notified Parks Canada of intention to divest Lunenburg Academy in 2022, letter reveals
The Town of Lunenburg is interested in divesting the Lunenburg Academy for private development and considers this a “high priority”, according to a letter the town sent to Parks Canada in April 2022.
Hundreds turn out for community rally addressing Second Story Women’s Centre
The Lunenburg Fire Hall was at capacity on Friday for a community meeting on the status of the counselling and support centre.
QUIZ: What Lunenburg County Intersection is Your Love Language?
The most powerful type of romantic love you can experience is when you and your partner speak each other's love languages. This is a love so incredible it can make any inconvenience, like an interruption in your commute, totally insignificant.
Community Rally Planned to Support Second Story Women’s Centre After Staff Resignations
Second Story Women's Centre, the only dedicated counseling and support center for women and gender-diverse people in Lunenburg County, is closed until further notice following the resignation of eight staff members in February.
Friends of Blockhouse Hill group organizes to oppose Lunenburg RFP for residential development plans
Over three days, more than 385 people have joined a Facebook group organizing a citizen’s group opposing the Town of Lunenburg’s plan to seek designs for potential development on Blockhouse Hill.
Lunenburg postpones review of Cornwallis Street renaming survey
The new name for Cornwallis Street in Lunenburg is to be selected at an undetermined date after Town Council agreed to take extra time to review more than 300 submissions on the matter received through public consultation.
Lunenburg Barnacle Vol. 1, No 2. is here
This month's Barnacle is loaded with planning news, profiles of some of your wonderful neighbours and all kinds of local fun – even a new Pets of the Month feature.
Chris’ Pick for March 2023: Sea Wolf (2009)
Featuring Neve Campbell and Tim Roth, a young man finds intrigue aboard the seal-hunting ship of cruel captain Wolf Larsen.
Ella and Ben of Lunenburg
If you’ve seen the posters around town inviting you to “Come meet the cutest cat ever!”, you’ve got Oah Hansinger, age six, to thank!
Lunenburg to consider housing development proposals on Blockhouse Hill, plans closure of campground in 2024
This summer is set to be the last for the Lunenburg RV Park and Campground on Blockhouse Hill, as the Town prepares to consider proposals for conditions of sale for housing development on the land – a move the Lunenburg Board of Trade says would not be as economically prudent as letting the campground they operate remain.
