Gas increased while diesel prices decreased at the pumps last night in Nova Scotia. Regular Self-Serve Gasoline increased 1 cent/litre putting the minimum pump price at 147.8 cents per litre. Diesel decreased by 5.4 cents per litre, putting the minimum pump price at 148.8 cents per litre in the local area.
New Glasgow Regional Police say this year’s Riverfront Jubilee was a safe and successful event, thanks to strong community cooperation and a proactive police presence. Held August 1st to 3rd, the festival saw 120 calls for service, mostly related to liquor violations and minor disturbances. Seven arrests were made, including one serious incident where an intoxicated person jumped from the George Street Bridge into the East River and later assaulted a police officer. Police say youth-related issues were down from previous years, and support from Stellarton and Westville police helped provide nearly 200 hours of coverage throughout the weekend.
A 19-year-old St. Andrews man is in custody after a series of dangerous incidents in Antigonish County, where he repeatedly fled from RCMP traffic stops. Police say Dustin MacDonald was first identified on June 27 after allegedly speeding away from an attempted stop near Fraser Mills. On July 8, he was again spotted driving an ATV and dirt bike dangerously on sidewalks in Lower South River, and later that day, fled police in a car through a residential neighbourhood. Officers say in each case, they chose not to pursue due to public safety concerns. MacDonald was arrested July 30 in Antigonish and is now facing several charges, including flight from police, dangerous operation, and breaching probation. RCMP say the investigation is ongoing and more charges are possible.
Due to ongoing dry weather, the Town of Pictou is asking residents to voluntarily cut back on water use. The request is in effect daily until further notice. Residents are asked to water lawns and gardens only between 6 p.m. and 8 a.m., avoid filling swimming pools, and hold off on washing vehicles at home. Town officials say well water levels are currently normal, but these steps will help prevent potential shortages as dry conditions continue.
Nova Scotia Health says over 1,500 people were removed from the province’s primary care waitlist in July. The number of people registered dropped from 89,455 on July 1 to 87,879 by August 1. That means 1,576 people either found a provider or were confirmed to already have one. Currently, 8.3% of Nova Scotians remain on the list. The registry will be updated again early next month.
A groundbreaking ceremony will be held august 28th in New Glasgow for the Viola’s Way Placemaking Project, a new pedestrian-only space that will honour the legacy of Viola Desmond and other African Nova Scotian changemakers. The site, next to the former Roseland Theatre, will be a place for reflection, education, and celebration. The project is being funded by all three levels of government. Mayor Nancy Dicks says it’s a bold and beautiful step forward for the community.
