Construction company Lafarge Gypsum said it cannot afford to keep open a drywall plant in western Newfoundland.
Lafarge Gypsum Canada announced the closure of its Corner Brook plant Tuesday morning.
In a statement, the company said it is no longer economically viable to keep the plant open under current local market conditions. It employs more than 50 workers.
Story from CBC News and Western Star
David MacDonald, manager of power and energy with Corner Brook Pulp and Paper, said the mill is willing to give peat energy a try. "If we can buy the peat substantially cheaper than the same energy value in oil, then we will save money," he said. "It will make a difference in the millions of dollars, if it works — which we expect that it will."
Burning peat produces fewer greenhouse gases than burning bunker fuel.
Ontario-based Peat Resources Ltd. has been developing peat resources on Newfoundland's west coast, and is optimistic about an ongoing relationship with Corner Brook Pulp and Paper.
"In setting ourselves up in Newfoundland, we've been looking for the possibilities of local customers for the peat," said executive Peter Telford. "Having someone like Corner Brook Pulp and Paper interested would be terrific." Corner Brook Pulp and Paper has been exploring alternatives to oil consumption. It already burns bark, and had given serious consideration to burning used automobile tires before abandoning the plan last year. The first shipment of peat will head to the mill's power boiler on July 9. [source]
Expansion welcomed - Deer Lake Regional Airport officially opens terminal
GARY KEAN The Western Star
The brand new terminal building at Deer Lake Regional Airport is impressive, but the work is not done yet.The Deer Lake Regional Airport Authority officially opened the expanded facility Thursday, marking less than three short years since the organization decided to self finance the $11.5-million project to double the terminal's size and make other essential improvements.
"It's hard to believe we've come this far in such a short period of time," said Jamie Schwartz, the airport's manager. "This facility is magnificent and the response we've been getting from the public is fantastic. People actually don't believe they are in Deer Lake when they arrive here, and that's a tremendous compliment to us." ....
Full story Western star
Above, Jamie Schwartz, airport manager at the opening
On the 18th June 1928 -Amelia Earhart becomes first woman to fly the Atlantic from Newfoundland to Wales
Humber Valley Resort has quietly launched its upgraded version of its website this week. Full of great, in fact stunning photos, smooth animation and lots more information - this is a good step forward. Only issue is, if you spen more than five minutes on the site - you're going to search for the mute button.
Try it, and you'll understand! www.HumberValley.com
The former minister of Tourism, Culture and Recreation announced Friday he's taking a job as general manager of operations of Humber Valley Resort. Shelley's new job starts July 13, which means he has to leave as his position as the legislature member for Baie Verte on July 12. 
He had intended to finish out his term, but the job cut his term short by a few months."I've been interested in tourism for a long time," Shelley said. "With the busy season coming upon us, the timing sort of dictates I take up this job as soon as possible. I'll take the next two or three weeks to deal with files in the district and come into it full time after July 12. 
"He said going from 15-year provincial politician to helping manage a world-class resort is going to be an adjustment, but it's one he feels he can handle."I'm really looking forward to the challenge," he said. "My love is tourism in Newfoundland and Labrador. I've believed for a long time Humber Valley Resort is a jewel in the crown of tourism in Newfoundland and Labrador. It's been good to this point and I think it's even going to get better."The potential for the entire Humber Valley and west coast is huge and I've said that as a tourism minister."I certainly think that's going to continue on. There's really exciting times coming for not only for Humber Valley resort, but that entire region of the province.
Full story - Western Star
