This province’s fire commissioner says Newfoundland and Labrador is well equipped when it comes to the skills needed to deal with the threat of fires.

There are currently 250 fire fighters in Grand Falls-Windsor and Gander who are taking part in courses in fire and emergency services. The commissioner says it’s an opportunity for crews from around the province to discuss some of the positives, as well as the challenges. One of the growing problems is the increased threat of wildfires.

Commissioner Robert Fowler says fire departments in this province are among the most well-trained in the country and ready to deal with threats as they arise. Twenty-two courses are being offered over a six-day training period.

Exploit’s Island was resettled in the 1960’s, but the community is one that is rich in history. Clifford Lilly grew up here, and remembers the 1930’s when people lived on fish, potatoes and molasses bread. The area is still home to many cabin owners, and there are three cemeteries remaining.

On Wednesday in Lewisporte, Clifford Lilly attended an event at the Lewisporte Public Library where he turned over 26 books written over a 20-year period to document the history of Exploit’s Island. He says much of his information came from journals and books that would have otherwise been destroyed.

Organizer Myrtice Alpen said to have the information is an honour. The books will be available at the Public Library in Lewisporte and the A.C. Hunter Public Library in St. John’s.

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A 57-year-old man from Grand Falls-Windsor has been sentenced to five months house arrest for sharing intimate pictures of his ex-girlfriend. He was charged with showing the photos to her parents back in February of 2021. His identity cannot be shared because of a publication ban.

Initially, the Crown has been seeking a sentence more in line with five months of incarceration, while his lawyer was asking for a few months house arrest. He will also recieve 12 months probation, but will be allowed to leave his home for medical appointments, employment and school. He will be given an hour a day for exercise and one four-hour window for banking. All the images must be deleted or destroyed.