B.C.’s Environmental Assessment Office fines Coastal GasLink Pipeline LTD $346,000 in administrative penalties and $590k for major pipeline ‘deficiencies’ caused by erosion and sediment buildup that go against its environmental assessment. Sediment leaking into the waterways has potential long-term adverse consequences to the local fish, waterways, and landscape, a fact that the Wet’suwet’en Indigenous groups raise complaints about. This fine comes after multiple additional non-compliance and false information fines issued from EAO that combine to 1.3 million for the company.  On September 19th, British Columbia’s Environmental Assessment office fined Coastal Gaslink LTD for the second time this month with two administrative penalties for non-compliance. Earlier this month, on Wednesday, September 11th, the EAO also fined Coastal GasLink Pipeline $590k for deficiencies in its pipeline.  Coastal Gaslink’s pipeline project began in 2019 and is nearing completion late in 2024, but the project has been delayed multiple times, partly because of stop-work orders. Since the project began the EAO has prioritized the project for compliance monitoring and has conducted 100 checks of the project, and issued 59 warnings, 30 orders, 13 stop work orders, as well as 10 administrative penalties for non-compliance with the requirements of Coastal GasLink’s environmental assessment certificate. The fines of $570k originate from April and May 2023 and arise over concerns about erosion and sediment control measures. The last four fines the EAO issued were for $800,000 each, and a fifth fine of $6000 also came in for providing false or misleading information. The combined cost of the fines will cost the company 1.3 million.  The Environmental Assessment Office’s report declared that the nature of Costal Gaslink’s non-compliance is considered major, and the adverse effects are considered medium. Some of the latest fines were due to testing along a 14-kilometer stretch where results revealed sediment buildup had leaked into waterways. The high level of sediment in waterways is a hazard to fish and their eggs, and can be destructive to their habitat. The significant long-term effects of sediment leakage are not fully known as they range over a wide geographical area and have continued over a prolonged period.  ​Image from Research Gate Impacts to the Community Complaints arise from local community members about the rising cost of the project beyond the initial estimation and the pollution of the waterways and land caused by the pipeline. B.C. Green Party’s Leader Sonia Furstenau states in an interview that “CGL’s track record demonstrates... a lack of respect for the land, water, and fish.” Sonia Furstenau is not the only one troubled by the Coastal Gaslink’s work on the project. The 670-kilometer pipeline ranges from Kitimat to Groundburch near Dawson Creek and spans over Wet'suwet'en Indigenous unceded territory. The Indigenous group has raised multiple complaints about the project. The Wet’suwet’en Indigenous group first raised concerns in 2019 during the Environmental Assessment for the project, questioning the impacts on environmentally sensitive receptors such as waterways and wetlands during the construction—a major concern as the pipeline crosses 625 lakes, creeks, wetlands, and streams. As the pipeline project continued, several Wet’suwet’en hereditary chiefs and their supporters opposed the pipeline’s construction, going under the name of ‘water protectors’. This group has gathered international attention and has been subject to RCMP arrests and court proceedings for their opposition to the project which is legal under Canadian law. Coastal Gaslink assured communities that their top priority was the safety of the land and working with Indigenous members, but questions about their procedure arose as just last month, Coastal GasLink spilled a clay lubricant while tunneling under the Wedzin Kwa or the Morice River, a salmon-bearing river and a sacred headwater for the Wet’suwet’en.  In a report from Coastal Gaslink on September 21st, the company reports that it took “immediate and decisive action” to address the issues when EAO first reported them in April and May 2023. The report also states that “Coastal Gaslink respects the role our regulators have in upholding the high standards we are committed to meeting. Those standards matter to the Indigenous and local communities, to the people of British Columbia, and they matter to us.”  Coastal GasLink is now nearing completion, reporting the pipeline is 94% complete as of September 21st, and estimates that the project will be complete by the end of the year. Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our only funding is your amazing donations to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/JG9D2sCg References: https://globalnews.ca/news/10753443/coastal-gaslink-fined/   https://bc.ctvnews.ca/coastal-gaslink-fined-590k-following-repeated-non-compliance-with-environmental-rules-1.7038310#:~:text=British%20Columbia's%20Environmental%20Assessment%20Office,the%20sixth%20time%20this%20week .  https://www.coastalgaslink.com/   https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/coastal-gaslink-more-stop-work-orders-1.6837555#:~:text=Environment%20officials%20said%20the%20company,and%20destructive%20to%20fish%20habitat .  https://www.projects.eao.gov.bc.ca/api/public/document/66e314e45c103800226ab322/download/Attachment%202%2020230030_AP002_Administrative%20Penalty%20Assessment%20Form%202024.09.10.pdf   https://www.coastalgaslink.com/whats-new/news-stories/2023/2023-09-21-coastal-gaslinks-response-to-eao-administrative-penalties/ https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2023ENV0058-001481

Residents of Trent Hills and surrounding areas are advised that members of the Royal Canadian Air Force’s 426 Transport Training Squadron will be conducting critical night flight training this week. The training will take place on Thursday, September 26, and Friday, September 27, 2024, between 9:00 PM and 12:00 AM. This exercise will involve two CC-130J Hercules aircraft flying in the vicinity of Canadian Forces Base Trenton and Canadian Forces Detachment Mountain View. These flights are essential for the aircrew to maintain their search-and-rescue capabilities and readiness for missions that often occur under difficult and life-threatening conditions. Regular training ensures that our aircrews are prepared to execute complex manoeuvres both in Canada and around the world. All flights are meticulously planned and controlled to prioritize public safety. However, operations are subject to change based on weather and flying conditions. The CC-130J Hercules, a four-engine turboprop aircraft, plays a critical role in a wide range of operations, including personnel transport, search-and-rescue missions, tactical airlift, and aircrew training. The municipality of Trent Hills is expected to notice the activity, and residents should be aware that these operations are part of routine and necessary preparedness exercises. For more details, please refer to the contact below: 8 Wing Trenton 426 Transport Training Squadron CC-130J Hercules Contact Information: Captain Hrayr Karageozian 8 Wing Trenton Public Affairs Officer Phone: 613-392-2811 ext. 2041 Email: Hrayr.Karageozian@forces.gc.ca Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our only funding is your amazing donations to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU

UPDATE: As of roughly 1:45pm highway 2 has been reopened UPDATE: We have received reports that the cyclist from this morning's accident has tragically passed away. Please expect the road to remain closed for most of the day Belleville, ON – A serious collision occurred in the early hours of today, September 12, 2024, resulting in the closure of a stretch of Highway 2 in Belleville. The incident took place in the early hours of the morning, leading to the closure of the highway between Sienna Avenue and Wallbridge Loyalist Road. Emergency crews responded promptly to the scene to provide medical assistance and manage the traffic situation. The exact nature of the collision and the number of individuals involved are currently under investigation by local authorities. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes. Updates on the road closure and the investigation will be provided as more information becomes available. Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our only funding is your amazing donations to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU

After nearing ten years of work on the dam, the Site C Dam is nearing completion. On August 25, 2024 BC Hydro announced that they will begin filling the dam's reservoir, which will allow operation of the generation station, spillways, turbines, and generators in the area. The Site C Dam reservoir is located 7 kilometres southwest from Fort St. John, B.C. and ranges over 5,500 hectares of land across the North Peace River. The reservoir is estimated to take 4 months to fill with water, with water levels rising 0.3 meters per day. Once completed, BC Hydro reports that the 83-kilometer reservoir will be up to two to three times the current width of the North Peace River. The Site C Dam will be the third dam on the Peace River in northeastern Bristish Columbia. According to BC Hydros estimates, the dam will provide nearby residents with 1,100 megawatts of capacity, increasing BC Hydro's overall supply of energy by 8% by generating 5,100 gigawatts of electricity per year. What is the Current Environmental Impact of the Site C Dam? While drought and wildfires rage across the province, BC Hydro assures nearby communities that the company’s approach to collecting water for the reservoir is sustainable. The company states that the water comes from the upstream Williston Reservoir, a reservoir that on an average year can fill up the Site C Reservoir up to 20 times over. BC Hydro has also been monitoring the dam’s impact on the local wildlife and environment throughout the project. Local birds in northeastern British Columbia build their nests in the spring and early summer months and bears begin to hibernate in late fall and into early winter. To reduce impacts to local wildlife, BC Hydro has decided to wait unfil late August to begin filling the reservoir to avoid disturbing as much wildlife as possible. Even with BC Hydro's attempt to reduce the impact of their dam to nearby fauna, local residents take to facebook to voice their concerns over the long term environmental impact of the project. Complaints about the destruction of trees, nearby rolling canola fields, and local mountains, as well as worries over the cost of the operation continue to stir up distress among local community members. As of today, BC Hydro has yet to reply to these complaints. What do you need to know? For people in the area, BC Hydro urges local residents to stay away from the reservoir and surrounding areas for the next four months as the reservoir is filled, and for the consecutive year after as the land adapts to the changes. Existing boat launches around the reservoir will also be closed until at least 2026. References: [Filling the Reservoir] https://www.sitecproject.com/reservoir [Project Overview] https://www.sitecproject.com/overview#:~:text=Site%20C%20will%20provide%201%2C100,vehicles%20per%20year%20in%20B.C. [Where is Site C Located] https://www.sitecproject.com/where-site-c-located [Breghnan Duane Dolan, Facebook Post] https://www.facebook.com/share/p/9vPC1C7k2ifXsFQA/?mibextid=oFDknk [Gary Porter, Facebook Post] https://www.facebook.com/share/p/JQ1RSTmPStGbg8eY/?mibextid=oFDknk [Lorraine Ward, 'Say “NO” to Site “C” Dam!' Facebook post] https://www.facebook.com/share/p/Ea5qPqwDY1uGogHK/?mibextid=oFDknk

Parents in the region are voicing their frustration after Student Transportation Services of Central Ontario (STSCO) announced route consolidations due to an alleged driver shortage. Children are now stuck on buses for extended periods, with no clear explanation as to why. STSCO claims that while all bus routes are covered, they lack spare drivers, forcing them to consolidate runs. However, many are questioning this reasoning. If every route has a driver, why the need for consolidation? It seems the shortage might not be of drivers, but of transparency. One critical point causing confusion is STSCO’s decision to end their contract with Hamilton Bus Lines, a transportation provider that had been reliably serving the community. Despite being equipped with over 40 licensed drivers and buses, Hamilton Bus Lines lost the contract in favor of a smaller, more affordable company. As a result, Hamilton's buses and drivers are sitting unused, while the companies STSCO contracted are understaffed and struggling to meet demand. Local bus drivers are calling out the situation. “There’s no driver shortage across the board—just a shortage with the companies STSCO decided to contract. Hamilton Bus Lines has plenty of licensed drivers ready to go, but they’re not being utilized,” said one driver, frustrated with how things have been handled. For many parents, this has been a maddening ordeal. “Why are my kids sitting on the bus for hours when there’s a fleet of buses and drivers just sitting idle?” one parent asked. As complaints pour into schools and STSCO offices, the community is being urged to ask why Hamilton Bus Lines isn’t being called back to help. This situation shines a spotlight on questionable contract decisions that are affecting local families. It’s not a lack of drivers overall, but rather a lack of drivers within the companies that were awarded contracts. Meanwhile, Hamilton Bus Lines, a fully capable local provider, is sidelined despite its availability. Parents and drivers alike are calling for action and better decision-making. The real question remains: Why can't Hamilton Bus Lines, with its experienced drivers and ready buses, be brought back to alleviate the chaos? Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our only funding is your amazing donations to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU

Cigarette Taxes Soar Over 70 Percent, According to Local Store Owner at Tucker’s Convenience BELLEVILLE – For those who frequent Tucker's Convenience at the well-known local intersection dubbed “Tucker’s Corners,” an unsettling trend is hitting their wallets hard: the steep taxation of cigarettes. According to the store's manager and owner, taxes on cigarettes have risen to more than 70 percent, leaving both smokers and business owners feeling the financial strain. Tucker’s Convenience, located just outside of Belleville at the intersection with Jack Tucker’s bar, has long been a familiar stop for locals. It serves as a one-stop shop for essentials, snacks, and, for many, cigarettes. But recently, the prices on cigarette packs have skyrocketed, largely due to increasing government-imposed taxes. “The price of cigarettes is mostly tax now,” said the store’s owner. “A pack of Pall Malls that costs around $4 before taxes is now selling for $14 after taxes. That’s because 70 percent of the final price—about $9.80—comes from taxes alone plus the manufacturers fees.” This sharp increase is part of a broader government strategy to reduce smoking rates, but it’s also leading to frustration among customers and store owners alike. Local smokers are feeling the pressure, with many reconsidering their habits or searching for cheaper alternatives, such as vaping or driving farther to find better deals. For business owners, it’s a tough spot. “We don’t make much profit off cigarette sales anymore,” the owner explained. “Between taxes and the price increases from manufacturers, we’re left with very little margin. People come in to buy cigarettes, and they leave, meaning they aren’t spending money on other things in the store.” At the corner where Tucker’s Convenience and Jack Tucker’s bar stand, this intersection has long been a hub of activity for locals. However, if prices keep climbing, it may not remain that way for long. While government officials believe that higher taxes will contribute to reducing smoking-related health costs in the long term, it’s unclear how small businesses like Tucker’s will continue to weather the storm in the short term. As cigarette taxes soar, local businesses are feeling the pinch, and customers may be forced to make some hard decisions—whether to quit smoking or find new ways to stretch their budgets. For now, at Tucker’s Convenience, the impacts of government policies on cigarette taxation are being felt in full force.

Ontario, Canada  — In a developing story covered by Small Town Productions, the Amber Alert issued early Tuesday morning for a missing 5-year-old boy from Quebec has been resolved after the child was located in Ontario. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have confirmed that the boy was found safe and sound, bringing a swift and positive end to the alarming situation. Further reports from Quebec provincial police reveal that two individuals have been arrested in York, near Toronto, in connection with the case. Authorities are continuing their investigation to understand the full circumstances surrounding the incident. Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our only funding is your amazing donations to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU

Image Source: Salvatore Tropiano from Campbellford Trent Hills, ON  – A two-vehicle accident occurred in Campbellford at the intersection of Bride St West and Front St, at approximately 8:45 PM last night. Fortunately, no injuries were reported from the incident, but the road remains partially obstructed, and there may still be debris in the area. Emergency services were quick to respond, working diligently to clear the scene and ensure the safety of all involved. While the vehicles have been removed, officials warn that debris may still be present on the roadway. As a precaution, residents and motorists are advised to avoid the area if possible. Those who must travel through the area should exercise caution and be aware of the possibility of debris, which could pose a risk to tires and vehicles. By avoiding the area, you can help emergency services work more efficiently to fully clear the site and restore normal traffic flow. The Trent Hills authorities appreciate the community's cooperation during this time and remind everyone to drive safely and remain vigilant on the roads. For further updates, stay tuned to local news channels and follow official social media accounts of the Trent Hills emergency services. Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our only funding is your amazing donations to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU

This morning, the Canadian National Railway (CN) and Canadian Pacific Railway (CP) found themselves at the center of a nationwide disruption as a significant lockout and strike action unfolded. Thousands of workers walked off the job, while others were locked out, halting freight movement across Canada and raising concerns about the impact on the economy. What Led to the Dispute? The lockout and strike result from ongoing disputes between the rail companies and their unions over key issues, including: Wages and Benefits : Union representatives argue that workers have been undercompensated, with wages not keeping pace with inflation. They are demanding fair wage increases and improved benefits. Working Conditions : Rail workers have raised concerns about long hours, safety protocols, and the need for better work-life balance. There have been calls for more stringent safety measures and shorter shifts to reduce fatigue-related incidents. Job Security : With automation and technological advancements, there are fears about job cuts. Unions are seeking assurances that jobs will be protected and that any transition to new technologies will include retraining and job security provisions. Impact on the Canadian Economy The lockout and strike have significant implications for Canada’s economy. CN and CP Rail are critical to the movement of goods across the country, including essential items like grain, oil, and manufactured products. The disruption could: Affect Supply Chains : With freight trains halted, industries dependent on rail transport, including agriculture, energy, and manufacturing, could experience delays and shortages. Increase Costs : The disruption may lead to increased costs for businesses and consumers as companies seek alternative, more expensive transportation methods. Cause Layoffs : If the strike continues, companies relying on rail services might be forced to lay off workers or reduce operations due to the unavailability of raw materials or delayed shipments. Government and Public Response The federal government has called for an immediate resolution, urging both parties to return to the negotiating table. In a statement, the Minister of Labour expressed concern about the potential long-term economic impacts and emphasized the importance of a fair and swift resolution. Public opinion is divided. Some support the workers’ demands for better wages and working conditions, while others are concerned about the broader economic repercussions, particularly in a time of already strained global supply chains. What’s Next? Negotiations are expected to continue, but the situation remains fluid. The rail unions have indicated they are prepared for a prolonged strike if their demands are not met, while CN and CP Rail have stated they are committed to finding a solution but are also considering legal options to bring the strike to an end. As this situation develops, all eyes will be on the negotiations and the broader impacts on the Canadian economy. Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our only funding is your amazing donations to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU

Photo Credit: Jason Coveney - WTF Belleville Facebook Group A radar camera on Sidney Street, used to monitor speeding drivers, was defaced with black spray paint in an unsettling act of vandalism on Sunday, August 11th. The damage, which rendered the camera inoperable, has raised concerns among both residents and local authorities. The camera, an essential tool in the town's efforts to reduce speeding, was found covered in black paint early Sunday morning. This act of vandalism is viewed as a significant disruption to community safety, particularly in an area known for its traffic issues. The Belleville Police Department was promptly notified by a local resident, who discovered the damage while on their morning walk. Local authorities have expressed serious concern about the incident, emphasizing that it undermines efforts to protect the community. The vandalism not only damages public property but also temporarily compromises the safety of the area. The camera on Sidney Street has been instrumental in reducing speeding, a long-standing issue in the neighborhood. The defacement of this device has sparked frustration among residents, who rely on such measures to keep their streets and children safe. The Belleville Police are currently investigating the incident. In addition to urging the public to provide any information that could assist in the investigation, the police department has also announced increased patrols in the area as a temporary measure. The town has already initiated plans to replace the damaged camera and is considering additional measures to prevent future acts of vandalism. This incident highlights the ongoing challenges small towns like Belleville face in maintaining public safety and protecting community resources. As the investigation continues, Belleville officials remind residents of the importance of respecting public property and working together to ensure the safety of the community. The swift response by law enforcement is expected to deter future acts of vandalism and restore a sense of security to the neighborhood. Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our only funding is your amazing donations to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

Image sourced from Accuweather As the remnants of Hurricane Debby approach our region, Environment Canada has issued a special weather statement, urging residents to be prepared for potential severe weather. Although Hurricane Debby has weakened into a post-tropical storm, it still poses risks, including heavy rainfall, strong winds, and the possibility of isolated thunderstorms. Environment Canada's Report According to Environment Canada, the storm is expected to bring: Heavy Rainfall : The storm could deliver 50-75mm of rain in some areas, with the potential for localized flooding, particularly in low-lying and poorly drained regions. Strong Winds : Wind gusts could reach 70-80 km/h (40-50 mph), leading to the risk of downed trees and power outages. Precautionary Measures Residents are encouraged to take the following steps to ensure their safety: Secure Outdoor Items : Bring in or secure loose items like patio furniture, garbage bins, and garden tools that could become projectiles in strong winds. Prepare an Emergency Kit : Ensure your emergency kit is well-stocked with essentials, including water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and a first aid kit. Stay Informed : Keep up with the latest updates from Environment Canada and local news outlets. Consider downloading a weather app that provides real-time alerts. Charge Devices : Make sure your mobile devices and backup batteries are fully charged in case of power outages. Avoid Flooded Areas : Never attempt to drive through flooded roads. Turn around. Plan for Power Outages : Have candles, matches, and a battery-operated radio ready. If you rely on electricity for medical devices, have a contingency plan in place. Please also if you do need to head out drive with extreme caution as heavy rain can cause the roads to become slippery, give yourself extra distance with braking and extra time for yourself to get where you need to go. Stay safe folks, Link for Donations: We are solely independent with our news and our only funding is your amazing donations to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps us keep you informed and in the know https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6

As a journalist, I am driven by a passion for storytelling with a focus on truth and accuracy. I'm here because I made a choice to serve you, my readers. In doing my job, I dive deep into the depths of the digital and real world to unearth stories that I hope matter. Whether it's the pulse of our bustling cities, the undercurrents of our societies, or the whispers of injustice that need a voice, I'm here to bring them into the light for you. Today, as I sit here and ponder potential stories, I feel a resounding urge to turn the page back to you: What stories do you wish to see brought to life? Is it the unsung heroes working behind the scenes of our daily lives, the technological advances shaping our future, or perhaps the environmental challenges we face as a global community? Or maybe it's the intricate dance of politics and power, the stories of triumph over adversity, or the mysteries that lie just beyond the edge of our current understanding? Your curiosity, concerns, and passions drive this journey. Share with me the topics, issues, or questions that stir your mind and heart. Let's embark on this investigative voyage together, turning each story into a tapestry of insight, inspiration, and impact. Consider this a collaborative canvas where your ideas, questions, and interests are the colors with which we paint. No topic is too broad or too niche. Whether it's exploring the intricacies of artificial intelligence ethics, unraveling the complexities of global health initiatives, diving into the cultural impacts of modern media, or even investigating the local heroes making a difference in communities around the world, every suggestion has a place here. Perhaps you're intrigued by the future of space exploration and its implications for humanity, or you're concerned about the preservation of our natural world amidst rapid technological advancement. Maybe you're curious about the intersection of art and technology, how they influence each other and shape our society. Or, you might be drawn to stories of resilience and hope, tales of people overcoming odds to create positive change. This is your opportunity to steer the ship. Share your thoughts on what additions would make this journey even more enriching and meaningful to you. What new angles, perspectives, or areas of interest should we explore? Your input is invaluable in crafting stories that resonate deeply and spark meaningful conversations. What do you want to read about? "I am very grateful to those of you that have chosen to make a donation to me for the stories I have written, thank you. Let me know in the comment section at the very bottom of this page, what stories you want to read about." Greg Brownell Link for Donations We are solely independent with our news and our only funding is your amazing donations to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please anything helps keep our journalists out there reporting. Journalists like Greg. https://square.link/u/4bCvqaha