TRURO – “It’s magical daddy!” That exclamation was uttered by a youngster the moment a large Christmas tree was lit in downtown Truro Friday night, officially marking the Christmas season.

TRURO – A new regional civic centre could offer substantial economic benefits and should be considered an investment, as opposed to a cost, top local officials believe.

TRURO – The continued stigma and discrimination of people living with HIV and AIDS makes it increasingly important to be aware of World AIDS Day, a local advocate believes.

BIBLE HILL – Student volunteers will once again be a driving force behind Operation Red Nose  (ORN) in Truro.

TRURO – The wild blueberry industry is facing some unprecedented pressures and some producers are concerned there may be little improvement during the next two years.

BELMONT – Russell Lynds gazes across the buildup of trees and brush under a bridge over the Belmont River near his home and shakes his head.

TRURO – A proposed civic centre in Colchester County would cost about $11 million more than originally anticipated.

TRURO – After 15 years of working in the corporate business world, Wanda MacInnes decided to take her career in a new direction when staff cuts eliminated her position.

TRURO – Future scientists and engineers will put their LEGO robotic creations to the test as part of a LEGO League competition this weekend.

BEAVER BROOK – A trailer fire in Beaver Brook is under investigation by the fire marshal. Cobequid District Fire Brigade responded to the blaze on Chase Lane at about 11:30 a.

TRURO – About 300 blueberry producers from across the province will meet in Truro today and Saturday to discuss issues facing their industry.

Breaching house arrest nets man probation TRURO –  A Salmon River man who breached the conditions of his house arrest by drinking has been sentenced to six months of probation.

SHUBENACADIE – Police have laid additional charges against three men who were arrested and charged earlier this month with break and enters.

TRURO – Readers of all ages are encouraged to check out a used book sale at the Colchester Historical Museum.

HALIFAX – You may find yourself shoveling less this winter, but you can count on more days of wearing long underwear and toques.

MILLBROOK – Lawrence Paul had something very important on his mind as he walked along Queen Street early Wednesday morning with the Olympic torch.

TRURO – Colchester County’s new civic centre is going to cost more than originally anticipated, but the exact figure will not be released until a special meeting tonight.

HALIFAX – The lawyer for a serial drunk driver with over 20 convictions won a controversial adjournment yesterday at Dartmouth provincial court.

HALIFAX – Terry Naugle needs more than just jail time, his niece urged yesterday. Stacey Strickland said her uncle grew up facing sexual abuse, extreme poverty and later drug and alcohol addictions.

TRURO – About 600 unionized school board workers in this region could walk off the job in early January.