Author

Videojournalist/NTV News covering Central Newfoundland
About the Author
Colleen Lewis has been a journalist with NTV, since 2003. As part of the province's most-watched newscast for two decades, Colleen has provided coverage throughout the province that have appeared provincially and nationally. From the Badger flood, to significant trials, to the shifting political climate, Colleen has brought reliable coverage to viewers for over 20 years. Born in Bonne Bay, and raised in Deer Lake, she is also the Globe and Mail best-selling author of Mr. Big. A true crime which stayed on the national bestseller list for six straight weeks in the fall of 2015. She has freelanced for the CBC, and written articles for magazines including Canadian Geographic. Colleen volunteered in provincial politics through the early 1990's and went on to develop a small community newspaper in her hometown. From there, she entered the world of daily news at the Western Star. But for her, nurturing her family and caring for her community has been the greatest accomplishment so far.

Firefighters train in central Newfoundland

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.

Living tribute made to donor of books about Exploits Island

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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Province long way from meeting goals in protected areas

The province has announced 10 new proposed protect areas, but it still has a long way to go in meeting its goals. NTV’s Colleen Lewis reports.

Renovations begin at nursing school in Grand Falls-Windsor

Construction is underway in Grand Falls-Windsor at one of three nursing schools in the province. NTV’s Colleen Lewis reports.

Concerns raised about potential wildfires in central

More concerns raised in the Central that changing climate may mean more wildfires this season.

Mining industry recruiting students in central Newfoundland

The mining industry is experiencing a booming in Central Newfoundland, but the industry is struggling to recruit local workers. Now, they’re reaching out to students. NTV’s Colleen Lewis reports.

New trial ordered for man acquitted of fatal collision

A new trial has been ordered for Nicholas Villeneuve. He was acquitted on charges related to a fatal car crash near Gander in 2019, including impaired driving. The collision resulted in the deaths of John and Sandra Lush. Their daughter, who was in the back seat, was seriously injured and Josh Whiteway was left partially paralyzed. Today, Josh says he is relieved to learn there will be a new trial. The trial is expected to take place in Gander.

Grand Falls-Windsor man sentenced in revenge porn case

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.

Officials urge residents to be prepared as forest fire season continues

There are predictions this forest fire season could be an active one across Atlantic Canada. Today Pleamon Forsey, MHA for Exploit’s, is cautioning government to be ready for the upcoming season by having sufficient ground crews and water bombers.

In Grand Falls-Windsor, Fire Chief, Vince Mackenzie wants residents to be prepared. He says in an emergency everyone should be prepared to leave their home for 72 hours by revisiting their personal emergency plans.

Currently, there are two active fires in the province.

Gander Airport records poor financial performance for 2022

Gander International Airport Authority is reporting their toughest financial year for the past two decades. 2022 saw the end of federal relief grants and funding form the pandemic, with air traffic only at two-thirds pre-pandemic levels. CEO Reg Wright says the news doesn’t come as a surprise, as a full recovery wasn’t anticipated until 2025. On a positive note, the CEO believes it’s only a matter of time before rotational workers see the winter schedule fully restored. He also expects the busy mining sector will also help the airport rebound quickly.

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