NB: Shift

Use the links below to download a file.

Science: Allergic against the cold

There are many people who don't like the cold. And there are people who are actually allergic to it. Michael Edwards of Science East in Fredericton has been looking into it.

Download Science: Allergic against the cold
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Nursing shortage disrupts palliative care at Campbellton hospital

The palliative care unit at the Campbellton Regional Hospital has closed due to a shortage in staff. Johanne Roy, vice president of Clinical Services at Vitalité Health Network, says the unit is expected to re-open next week but stresses the need to find solutions to the nursing shortage in the province.

Download Nursing shortage disrupts palliative care at Campbellton hospital
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:38]

Safety tips for winter hikes

If you're thinking of trying winter hiking, there are some safety measures to keep in mind. For example, Stephanie Bouchard advises people to always carry something that will keep them warm in an emergency. She is the co-founder of the GTFO Adventure Club in Fredericton, and a wilderness first responder.

Download Safety tips for winter hikes
[mp3 file: runs 00:06:19]

NB Tories will continue to fund early learning centres --

The Progressive Conservative government says it will continue funding a Liberal daycare program that provides subsidized daycare for lower income families. It's a good move, says Beth Lyons, executive director of the New Brunswick Women's Council.

Download NB Tories will continue to fund early learning centres --
[mp3 file: runs 00:09:04]

Edmundston's Foire Brayonne could end without more volunteers

Michel Nadeau, the city's director of recreation and sports services, says without the public's support, fresh ideas, and a much larger volunteer base, this may be the end of the 40-year old festival.

Download Edmundston's Foire Brayonne could end without more volunteers
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:09]

Students knit for a break from their phone

Teachers at W. A. Losier School in Tracadie found a creative way to give their students a break from their phones. They introduced them to knitting. Josee Mallais Paulin and Jessica Savoie-Sonier say the program is not just relaxing but surprisingly popular.

Download Students knit for a break from their phone
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:18]

Tales from the Provincial Archives: 370 memories of the province's past

A collection of some 370 photographs taken by Henry Ward Beecher Smith are of great interest to the provincial archives. He took rare photos of industry, nature and some of the province's smallest communities.

Download Tales from the Provincial Archives: 370 memories of the province's past
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:41]

Students spice it up through Junior Achievement

Many New Brunswick students get their first business experience through Junior Achievement. Moncton-based District Spice is one of those companies. Chief Digital Officer Tyler Travis says they just hit their break even point, selling spice packages.

Download Students spice it up through Junior Achievement
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:12]

Stories from the war at Hotel Dreijeroord

John Deweyert of Temperance Vale was born in the Netherlands and spent much of the Second World War living in Hotel Dreijeroord in Oosterbeek. It was there at the age of eight that he watched the Battle of Arnhem.

Download Stories from the war at Hotel Dreijeroord
[mp3 file: runs 00:16:55]

Bird talk: Birds of prey show up in cities

Birds of prey are not just showing up on roads this winter, where they're often getting hit by cars. But it seems hawks and owls are also turning up in cities more often. Birder Alain Clavette takes a look at the research behind the behaviour.

Download Bird talk: Birds of prey show up in cities
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:15]

New Year's resolutions from the heart

If you're still debating whether that New Year's resolution is worth keeping, Philip Davis may have some good advice for you. He aces his every year. And he's also making others feel good by doing them.

Download New Year's resolutions from the heart
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:51]

Changes coming to immigrant family reunification program

Madine VanderPlaat discusses changes coming to the family reunification program, which will allow more foreign relatives of Canadian citizens and residents to immigrate to Canada. She is a Professor of Sociology and Associate Dean of Arts at St. Mary's University.

Download Changes coming to immigrant family reunification program
[mp3 file: runs 00:06:00]

Improv against social anxiety

Hot Garbage Comedy is expanded from doing a couple of improv shows a month, to using improv to help students with social anxiety, and businesses hone a pitch. General manager Jean-Michel Cliche explains how that works.

Download Improv against social anxiety
[mp3 file: runs 00:09:05]

RCMP asks parents to be vigilant after children publish nude photos

Four young New Brunswick children were found to voluntarily share nude pictures or videos of themselves online. Signy Arnason with the Canadian Centre for Child Protection shares tips on how to keep children safe.

Download RCMP asks parents to be vigilant after children publish nude photos
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:52]

Adjusting to fewer births in the province

New Brunswick is not alone in dealing with a drop in birth rates and resulting drop in population. But Michael Haan says other countries found ways of adjusting to the change. He is the Canada Research Chair on Migration and Ethnic Relations at Western University, and the former Canada Research Chair in Population and Social Policy at the University of New Brunswick.

Download Adjusting to fewer births in the province
[mp3 file: runs 00:09:19]

Atlantic Wildlife Institute: Bird collisions more frequent in winter

Pam Novak at the Atlantic Wildlife Institute took in several injured hawks and owls who were hit on roadways in recent weeks. She has some theories about why the collisions seem to coincide with snowfall.

Download Atlantic Wildlife Institute: Bird collisions more frequent in winter
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:46]

Music: Pete Hansen celebrates solo debut

Fredericton's Pete Hansen played guitar for 14 years, mostly covers of other people's music. But lately he's been working on his own songs, including one that was inspired by the television show Breaking Bad.

Download Music: Pete Hansen celebrates solo debut
[mp3 file: runs 00:06:17]

2018 by the plate

Jessica Emin is a writer, photographer and food stylist in Halifax. Al Douglas is a food photographer in Charlottetown and Simon Thibault is a writer and the author from Halifax. Colleen Kitts-Goguen spoke with them about food trends and great eats they discovered in 2018.

Download 2018 by the plate
[mp3 file: runs 00:13:44]

Bread and Oranges

Oscar Baker III grew up in two cultures. His late mother was a member of the Eslipogtog First Nation in New Brunswick. His father is a Black American who lives in Florida. Oscar joined me to talk about the special foods prepared by the two most important women in his life.

Download Bread and Oranges
[mp3 file: runs 00:09:05]

Talking wild turkeys in New Brunswick

Our birder Alain Clavette speaks with a Mary de La Valette who's concerned about the fate of turkeys she says are being released for hunting, and follows up with the Minister of Energy and Resource Development Mike Holland.

Download Talking wild turkeys in New Brunswick
[mp3 file: runs 00:10:29]

Political Observers Year End

Duncan Matheson, Rosella Melanson and Michael Camp look back on a wild year in New Brunswick politics, and they imagine what might happen in 2019.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:16:53]

Science guru Michael Edwards takes on Christmas dinner

Our science expert Michael Edwards busts the myth behind the idea that turkey makes us sleepy.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:10:41]

Immigration pilot brings about 1500 to New Brunswick

About a year and a half into the federal government's Atlantic Immigration Pilot, New Brunswick is outpacing other provinces in the region when it comes to attracting immigrants. Colleen Kitts-Goguen spoke with Kelly Toughill who's been looking at the numbers for the Public Policy Forum.

Download Immigration pilot brings about 1500 to New Brunswick
[mp3 file: runs 00:09:25]

Tales from the Provincial Archives: Christmas Cards

Joanna Aiton-Kerr explains what kinds of cards are of most interest to the archives and she shares 4 examples - something very old, something about steamboats, something from a bank and something about a bus!

Download Tales from the Provincial Archives: Christmas Cards
[mp3 file: runs 00:09:16]

16-year study details Salmon smolt movement

Researchers with the Atlantic Salmon Federation just completed a 16-year study tracking smolt. Research scientist Jason Daniels said they hope the results will help explain why the fish are thriving in some rivers but not others, and how climate change affects fish populations.

Download 16-year study details Salmon smolt movement
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:21]

Choosing the right book for anyone on your Christmas list

Erin Balser at CBC Books has some great advice for impressing anyone with a book - from sports enthusiasts to foodies and everyone in between.

Download Choosing the right book for anyone on your Christmas list
[mp3 file: runs 00:09:15]

Shift's Political Panel: Expensive Francophonie games, property taxes and the capital budget

The panel discusses the unexpected cost of the 2021 Francophonie games, the new capital budget, and a bill introduced by new Liberal MLA Gerry Lowe that would make industry pay higher property taxes.

Download Shift's Political Panel: Expensive Francophonie games, property taxes and the capital budget
[mp3 file: runs 00:17:41]

Bird Talk: Counting birds in Alma

Birder Alain Clavette spent the day counting feathered friends in Fundy National Park.

Download Bird Talk: Counting birds in Alma
[mp3 file: runs 00:06:45]

Home Grown: Hand painted, intricate art on wine bottles

Victoria Victoria of Upper Grand Lake is the artist and co-owner of Noosphere Creations. She sells handpainted wine bottles with her husband David.

Download Home Grown: Hand painted, intricate art on wine bottles
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:13]

Book ideas for young readers

Candace Hare, director at the Nashwaaksis branch of the Fredericton Public Library, offers gift suggestions for young readers.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:07:52]

Bathurst police plays 'Cash Car' as part of Operation Red Nose

The Bathurst Police Force is joining Operation Red Nose but this year, the officers decided to do something a little different. Traffic officer Sgt. Judy Turple said they are playing a Cash Car game, and correct answers to questions will get passengers gift certificates.

Download Bathurst police plays 'Cash Car' as part of Operation Red Nose
[mp3 file: runs 00:05:44]

Atlantic Wildlife Institute: Basement toads and eider deaths

A couple of toads are spending the winter at the Atlantic Wildlife Institute. But director Pam Novak was also looking after common eiders, after more of them collided with power lines in the Tantramar Marsh.

Download Atlantic Wildlife Institute: Basement toads and eider deaths
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:38]

Capital budget delays Route 11 upgrades

The Progressive Conservative government has put a hold on upgrades to Route 11 between Cocagne River and Little Bouctouche River. Cocagne's mayor, Jean Hebert, said this also delays the instalment of much needed moose fencing.

Download Capital budget delays Route 11 upgrades
[mp3 file: runs 00:05:53]

Plastic Challenge: Making your own cleaning products

Associate producer Viola Pruss talks to her friend Andrea Peters, who makes her own cleaning products.

Download Plastic Challenge: Making your own cleaning products
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:36]

Rarely recorded nova caught on tape

Catherine Lovekin of Mount Allison University is part of the science team that monitors the BRITE-Constellation satellites. The five nano satellites capture the brightest stars, and happened to catch the full life cycle of a nova.

Download Rarely recorded nova caught on tape
[mp3 file: runs 00:05:38]

A new app uses AI to flag risky babysitters. What could go wrong?

Technology columnist Ramona Pringle looks at an app that claims to scour thousands of social media posts to provide parents with a "risk rating" for potential babysitters.

Download A new app uses AI to flag risky babysitters. What could go wrong?
[mp3 file: runs 00:06:55]

Fredericton-made Christmas podcast tops US charts

A new Christmas-themed podcast is topping the US Kids & Family podcast charts. 'Welcome to Tinsel Town' was made in Fredericton by co-writers and directors Jenna Knorr and Adam Ganong, as well as actors from around the city.

Download Fredericton-made Christmas podcast tops US charts
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:04]

TNB takes The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe on tour

Theatre New Brunswick has taken on the ambitious task of creating a world of magic beyond the wardrobe. The classic C.S. Lewis tale The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe comes to life on stage in Fredericton this week, and artistic director Natasha MacLellan said it will also tour to Saint John and Moncton.

Download TNB takes The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe on tour
[mp3 file: runs 00:06:13]

Marine scientists protest use of underwater seismic blasts

Marine scientists along the Eastern shore of the United States are raising concerns about seismic blasting along the Coast. Howard Rosenbaum, a senior scientist with the New York Aquarium, says the underwater explosions will disturb marine life, including the endangered North Altantic right whale.

Download Marine scientists protest use of underwater seismic blasts
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:46]

Tales from the Provincial Archives: Mathilda Blanchard - a ground-breaking labour leader

New Brunswick labour leader Mathilda Blanchard would be 98 years old today. She died in 2007, and was an influential leader and role model, at a time when few women held positions of power.

Download Tales from the Provincial Archives: Mathilda Blanchard - a ground-breaking labour leader
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:39]

Bird Talk: Spotting, but not disturbing, snowy owls

Hawks, eagles and owls. It's all about the predators this week with birder Alain Clavette.

Download Bird Talk: Spotting, but not disturbing, snowy owls
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:12]

Shift's Political Panel: Carbon plans and chocolate milk

The federal government rejected the Premier Blaine Higgs' request to hold off on emissions regulations for industrial emitters. Meanwhile, the consumer carbon tax comes into play in April, but the Progressive Conservatives are making good on an election promise to challenge that in court. And schools are once again free to sell fruit juice and chocolate milk to students.

Download Shift's Political Panel: Carbon plans and chocolate milk
[mp3 file: runs 00:19:23]

Homegrown Christmas Trees

Nathan Scott of Scott Family Christmas Tree Farms talks about what it takes to grow those beautiful balsam firs, and how you can keep yours looking fresh through the season.

Download Homegrown Christmas Trees
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:27]

Moncton's Nutcracker performance comes with a live theatre this year

This year's production of the Nutcracker at Moncton's Capitol Theatre will be a little different. Jim Tranquilla, director of community engagement for the New Brunswick Youth Orchestra, says it's the first time the ballet will be set to a live orchestra.

Download Moncton's Nutcracker performance comes with a live theatre this year
[mp3 file: runs 00:06:10]

Diabetes Canada disappointed in decision to backtrack on nutrition policy

Education Minister Dominic Cardy explains why the government is loosening the restrictions in the school nutrition policy... but Jake Reid of Diabetes Canada says that policy was a model for other jurisdictions and these changes send the wrong message.

Download Diabetes Canada disappointed in decision to backtrack on nutrition policy
[mp3 file: runs 00:10:51]

Money advice: Gifts that give back

CBC Money Columnist Bruce Sellery discusses charitable gift ideas that will make the recipient happy, and the world a better place.

Download Money advice: Gifts that give back
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:23]

Woodstock area will soon have a new newspaper

A couple of long time journalists in the Woodstock area are joining forces to launch a new monthly newspaper covering communities from Bath to Nackawic. The River Valley Sun won't cost readers a dime, and is the brainchild of retired editor Jim Dumville and Theresa Blackburn of the magazine Ageless NB.

Download Woodstock area will soon have a new newspaper
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:25]

Fils du Roy distillery recognized for community outreach

Fils du Roy continues to rack up national and international awards. Now the distillery can add a national tourism award to the list. Owner Sebastien Roy said his team received it for their commitment to local employment and resourcing.

Download Fils du Roy distillery recognized for community outreach
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:15]

Music: Lennie Gallant records Christmas song with Zimbabwe band

Lennie Gallant released his first studio album in nine years. It's called Time Travel, and Gallant is performing from it at Moncton's Aberdeen Cultural Centre. And in time for the season, he also released a Christmas song he recorded with Zimbabwe band, Black Umfolosi.

Download Music: Lennie Gallant records Christmas song with Zimbabwe band
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:57]

Stopping food waste at the grocery store

A new initiative in Fredericton hopes to stop food waste by connecting consumers with stores and letting them know what's on sale where. Food Scoop was created by Fredericton High School student Vardaan Malhotra.

Download Stopping food waste at the grocery store
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:00]

Plastic Challenge: Plastic hiding in... tea bags?

Shift's associate producer Viola Pruss is in to her fourth week of ditching single-use plastics. She responds to some feedback from the audience, and tells us about what she calls 'hidden plastics.'

Download Plastic Challenge: Plastic hiding in... tea bags?
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:26]

Mental health top of mind at Jim Sullivan Curling Classic

Curlers from across the Atlantic region and the world will gather in Saint John this weekend. It's the seventh annual Jim Sullivan Curling Classic at the Thistle St. Andrews. Sullivan was a giant in New Brunswick curling, but also suffered with depression and died by suicide in 2011. Organizer Kevin Babin said this weekend's event raises money and awareness for the Canadian Mental Health Association.

Download Mental health top of mind at Jim Sullivan Curling Classic
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:26]

Stuck in the ice: A loon rescue

It took a group effort to save a loon that stayed at Skiff Lake a little too long. But the loons has since recovered with Pam Novak at the Atlantic Wildlife Institute.

Download Stuck in the ice: A loon rescue
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:12]

Tales from the Provincial Archives: City sketches from the pre-photography era

A number of important sketches were donated showing parts of the province pre-photography. Photo archivist Josh Green said they arrived here, after they were discovered under a bed in Australia.

Download Tales from the Provincial Archives: City sketches from the pre-photography era
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:12]

Shift's Political Panel: Fracking and propaganda

Premier Blaine Higgs says his government has a green light on shale gas development, at least in the Sussex area. And Green Party MLA Kevin Arseneau raised eyebrows when he talked about the People's Alliance leaders' frequent use of the phrase "common sense," comparing the party leader's use of language to a famous quotation by Joseph Goebbels, Hitler's minister of propaganda.

Download Shift's Political Panel: Fracking and propaganda
[mp3 file: runs 00:18:23]

Bird Talk: Saving birds from window collisions

Birder Alain Clavette shares tips for people putting out their winter feeders, where to place them, and how to keep birds from flying into windows.

Download Bird Talk: Saving birds from window collisions
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:27]

Moncton gets funding for out-of-cold shelter

The provincial government announced funding for an out-of-the-cold shelter for Moncton's homeless. Lisa Ryan is the director of the city's YMCA ReConnect program, which will operate the shelter.

Download Moncton gets funding for out-of-cold shelter
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:15]

Home Grown: Turning bullet casings into art

There are many spent bullet casings in the woods, and metal smith Kristianne Levesque of Bite the Bullet turns them into everything from jewellery to belt buckles and money clips.

Download Home Grown: Turning bullet casings into art
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:43]

Music: The Once, and talking to ones inner voice

Newfoundland and Labrador's The Once are in the province this week for a couple of shows. The band released its fourth studio album this year, called Time Enough. Band member Geraldine Hollett shares her thoughts on a few of the songs, including one she wrote about talking to her inner self.

Download Music: The Once, and talking to ones inner voice
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:26]

Plastic Challenge: A trip to the grocery store

Shift's associate producer Viola Pruss is well into her challenge to ditch single-use plastics and is finding that, if you only look, there's lots of options at the stores.

Download Plastic Challenge: A trip to the grocery store
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:36]

Preparing autistic youth for life after high school

A workshop at the University of New Brunswick wants to help parents and those working with autistic youth prepare for life after high school. It's called Beyond High School and is hosted by Amanda Randall, a behaviour analyst and autism expert from the University of West Virginia.

Download Preparing autistic youth for life after high school
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:32]

New bill hopes to rein in Worksafe premiums

Doug Jones, president and CEO of Worksafe NB, reacts to the provincial government hoping to pass a bill to rein in soaring Worksafe premiums paid by business owners. There have been big increases in the premiums every year since 2015.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:08:57]

Rexton community inspires theatre troupe for 40 years

The Small Town Players have performed in Rexton for 40 years. Director and founder Jerry Cook says the troupe takes its inspirations from the community and the news, such as the shale gas controversy.

Download Rexton community inspires theatre troupe for 40 years
[mp3 file: runs 00:09:02]

Contest: Win a Craft NB gift basket

More than 40 master craftspeople are selling their wares at the annual starting Craft NB Christmas Festival this weekend. And one of Shift's lucky listeners has a chance to win a night in the city, and a gift basket.

Download Contest: Win a Craft NB gift basket
[mp3 file: runs 00:09:13]

Tales from the Provincial Archives: A living performance to celebrate the archives

To celebrate its 50th year, staff at the provincial archives decided to find an artist in residence. They settled on Fredericton's Solo Chicken Productions - The Coop, and the result is a living production that mixes theatre and dance with history.

Download Tales from the Provincial Archives: A living performance to celebrate the archives
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:11]

Bird Talk: Helping birds see power lines

Two weeks ago, Alain Clavette watched helplessly as flocks of common eiders flew straight at power lines along their migration route in the Tantramar Marsh. Birds that made contact with the lines dropped to the ground and died. Since then, Clavette decided to find out what can be done to prevent this from happening in the future.

Download Bird Talk: Helping birds see power lines
[mp3 file: runs 00:05:11]

Shift's Political Panel: Another Throne Speech and rising child poverty rates

The Progressive Conservative Throne Speech committed to balancing the budget by 2020, improving health care and education among other things. And more than 31,000 children in the province are living in poverty according to the latest report card from the Human Development Council.

Download Shift's Political Panel: Another Throne Speech and rising child poverty rates
[mp3 file: runs 00:19:04]

Beaverbrook launches holiday story and Nutcracker Tea

The Beaverbrook Art Gallery in Fredericton is hosting children and families for the Nutcracker Tea this weekend, as well as launching a children's Christmas story. A Beaverbrook Holiday was written by local author Wendy MacLeod MacKnight as a companion to her novel, The Frame-Up.

Download Beaverbrook launches holiday story and Nutcracker Tea
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:38]

Documentary film 'Noah, 18 ans' premieres in Moncton

Moncton filmmaker Francine Hebert is premiering her new documentary 'Noah, 18 ans'. The short film tells the story of a young man who changed genders three years ago. Hebert said she wanted to normalize the way we look at transgender people.

Download Documentary film 'Noah, 18 ans' premieres in Moncton
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:42]

Plastic challenge: No milk today

Shift's associate producer Viola Pruss is trying to ditch single-use plastics for a month. Last week, she told us about removing all plastic items from her bathroom. This week, she's focused on food. Specifically, her issue of accessing fresh milk.

Download Plastic challenge: No milk today
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:33]

Promoting re-using materials as a business model

La Coopérative de dévelopement régional-Acadie is organizing a series of lectures on the topic of circular economies all around Atlantic Canada. Executive director Marc Henrie said it's about discussing ideas of business models that re-use materials to make something new.

Download Promoting re-using materials as a business model
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:01]

Home Grown: Port City Candy Co.

Noah Donovan of Quispamsis started making bath products when he was still in High School. Now that he's studying marketing at NBCC, he's launched a second business. It's called Port City Candy Co., making old-fashioned candies, and chances are you'll see him at a Christmas market this season.

Download Home Grown: Port City Candy Co.
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:46]

$100,000 for Hampton's Accessible Playground

Andrea Hughes says it took a community effort to win the Aviva Community Fund's grand prize, and it mean work can begin on the accessible playground this spring.

Download $100,000 for Hampton's Accessible Playground
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:34]

Wombat waste is cubed!

Michael Edwards at Science East looks at new research about just how wombats make their cubed poop - and why!

Download Wombat waste is cubed!
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:17]

Renee Pellerin on 'Conspiracy of Hope: The Truth About Breast Cancer Screening'

Renee Pellerin was a veteran broadcast journalist working for the CBC in 2014, when a Canadian study casting doubt on the value of annual screening mammograms was published. She since started examining how mammography became standard medical practice. The result is her new book, Conspiracy of Hope: The Truth About Breast Cancer Screening.

Download Renee Pellerin on 'Conspiracy of Hope: The Truth About Breast Cancer Screening'
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:43]

Words that speak to, and about Miramichi

A Miramichi writers group is paying homage to the city's most famous authors and local culture by creating a literary trail. Sandra Bunting, a member of Words on Water, said she picked up the idea while living in Ireland.

Download Words that speak to, and about Miramichi
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:10]

Editing famous Canadians: Publishing icon shares his stories

Canadian publishing icon Douglas Gibson visits Fredericton for a talk titled "Across Canada by Story: A Coast-to-Coast Literary Adventure." Gibson's career spans some 45 years and he's worked with some of this country's most famous authors, including Alice Munro, Margaret Atwood and Alistair McLeod.

Download Editing famous Canadians: Publishing icon shares his stories
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:09]

Tales from the Provincial Archives: Prisoner of war

A collection of documents in the provincial archives provides insights into the history of the Baptist church and of China. The documents were donated by the family of George Manter Wilson of George St. Baptist Church - a preacher and civilian prisoner of war in China.

Download Tales from the Provincial Archives: Prisoner of war
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:38]

Full interview: Paramedics Association responds to new ambulance service plan

Chris Hood, executive director of the Paramedics Association of New Brunswick, says the province's plan to address issues with Ambulance New Brunswick response times is a good start, but there's still more work to be done.

Download Full interview: Paramedics Association responds to new ambulance service plan
[mp3 file: runs 00:15:22]

Some skiing at Crabbe Mountain starts this weekend

The ski hills are getting ready to open in early December. And if you're really keen, Stefanie Bouchard, marketing director at Crabbe Mountain, says they're opening their bunny hill this weekend for a fundraiser and beer tasting event.

Download Some skiing at Crabbe Mountain starts this weekend
[mp3 file: runs 00:05:16]

Shift's Political Panel: Homelessness and Gallant resigns

The panel discusses Brian Gallant's announcement that he'll resign as leader of the Liberal party but will stay on until a replacement is elected. That, and the homelessness crisis emerging in Moncton.

Download Shift's Political Panel: Homelessness and Gallant resigns
[mp3 file: runs 00:19:25]

Plastic challenge: 5 days in it's all about baking soda

Associate producer Viola Pruss started her challenge to ditch single-use plastics this week. She's five days in and baking soda is pretty much her go-to at this point.

Download Plastic challenge: 5 days in it's all about baking soda
[mp3 file: runs 00:09:14]

Bird Talk: Power lines kill flock of eiders

Longtime listeners will know that no one loves birds more than Alain Clavette. You can imagine his heartbreak last week, when he watched eider after eider fall from the sky.

Download Bird Talk: Power lines kill flock of eiders
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:45]

Home Grown: A one-year collection of homestead skills

Kimberlee Bastien of Upper Coverdale just released her book '52 Homestead Skills: A self-taught homesteader's one-year journey to learning a skill a week.'

Download Home Grown: A one-year collection of homestead skills
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:55]

Beyond Reconciliation: Indigenous advocate Jesse Wente speaks at Mount Allison

Pop-culture critic and broadcaster Jesse Wente is part of the President's Speakers Series at Mount Allison University. He's long been a passionate advocate for inclusion and diversity in the representation of indigenous peoples in media. This time, his topic is called Beyond Reconciliation: Looking Towards the Future of Canada.

Download Beyond Reconciliation: Indigenous advocate Jesse Wente speaks at Mount Allison
[mp3 file: runs 00:09:16]

Atlantic Wildlife Institute: No power, no phone

Winter weather has hit parts of the province with a bang, including the Atlantic Wildlife Institute near Sackville.

Download Atlantic Wildlife Institute: No power, no phone
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:05]

Music: The Barr Brothers

Brad Barr of the Barr Brothers talks about the band's new album, and writing music while also being a new dad.

Download Music: The Barr Brothers
[mp3 file: runs 00:07:52]

Oceana study finds depleting fish populations a growing concern

Oceana Canada released a report today, saying little is being done to rebuild depleting fish stocks. Science director Robert Rangeley says only 34 per cent of Canada's fish populations are considered healthy.

Download Oceana study finds depleting fish populations a growing concern
[mp3 file: runs 00:09:44]

Red Cross honours local humanitarians

The Red Cross is honouring two New Brunswick humanitarians. Saint John's Roxanne Fairweather will be honoured for her work on early childhood literacy, anti-poverty and gender parity. And Austin Henderson of Salisbury has been named young humanitarian of the year for his work on issues like youth empowerment and immigrant integration.

Download Red Cross honours local humanitarians
[mp3 file: runs 00:10:17]

Moncton speed skater wins gold at first World Cup

Moncton speed skater Courtney Sarault just returned from her first World Cup trip to Calgary and Salt Lake City in Utah, where she earned a silver in the women's 1,500 metres short track.

Download Moncton speed skater wins gold at first World Cup
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:49]

Tales from the Provincial Archives: The sinking of the Empress of Ireland

The Empress of Ireland ocean liner collided with a Norwegian coal ship in the St. Lawrence in 1914, within sight of the shore near Rimouski, Quebec. Some 1,400 people were aboard, and more than a thousand were lost in the disaster.

Download Tales from the Provincial Archives: The sinking of the Empress of Ireland
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:00]

Waves of Change: (Almost) plastic-free for a month

The CBC's Viola Pruss is going 'almost' plastic-free for a month as part of the CBC Atlantic Waves of Change series. On 'Day One' she explains how she'll do it.

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Cannabis legalization opens up new research possibilities

Academics, government officials, community groups and others from across the Maritimes gather at Mount Allison University to look at cannabis research from a social sciences point of view.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:07:10]

Farmers talk about preparing for climate change

ACORN is holding a workshop for farmers to talk about the risks from climate change. It's being held at Sarah Smith's Sweet Soil Organic Farm in Centre Village. She told us about her own experiences with storms and some of the ways she's dealing with issues like heavy rain and wind.

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Shift's Political Panel: A new premier and new cabinet

Progressive Conservative Leader Blaine Higgs was sworn in as New Brunswick's new premier, and also introduced his new cabinet.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:17:19]

A 100-year old song about the battle at Vimy

Hartley McGee returned to New Brunswick from the trenches in Europe 100 years ago. He didn't talk much about the war, but instead recorded his feelings in a song and poem called 'The Battle of Vimy.' His grandson, Ken McGee, had it re-recorded.

Download A 100-year old song about the battle at Vimy
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40 years later, woman receives photo of herself at rock concert

A photo of Noreen McCallum-Fedoriuk hung on Norm Foster's wall in Fredericton for decades. The two don't know each other. But a friend of Foster's took the photo at a rock concert, where McCallum-Fedoriuk was proudly holding up her Canadian flag, using a crutch as a flag pole. It was not until recently that Foster reached out to find McCallum-Fedoriuk, and sent her the photo.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:06:35]

Nap science

Feeling a little tired? Would a nap help? Maybe...but not if it's longer than 25 minutes. Michael Edwards of Science East takes a look at the latest research on napping.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:08:19]

First EP from The Tortoise the Hare and the Millionaire

Fredericton blues-rock trio releases first EP.

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Fatal Fun: How Atlantic Canadians are dying on recreational vehicles (Part 1)

At least 178 people have died as a result of ATV or snowmobile crashes since 2012. That's according to the CBC News investigation, Fatal Fun: How Atlantic Canadians are dying on recreational vehicles. Investigative reporter Karissa Donkin said the investigation found a confusing web of regulations across the region, and prompted a call for mandatory safety training.

Download Fatal Fun: How Atlantic Canadians are dying on recreational vehicles (Part 1)
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Book: A Soldier's Place - The War Stories of Will R. Bird.

Will R. Bird survived the First World War and returned home to Nova Scotia, becoming one of the most prolific writers sharing stories from the war. Now, Thomas Hodd at the Universite de Moncton gathered many of these stories for a new book called A Soldier's Place: The War Stories of Will R. Bird.

Download Book: A Soldier's Place - The War Stories of Will R. Bird.
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Tales from the Provincial Archives: Founding documents

There are hundreds of thousands of documents in the provincial archives. But provincial archivist Fred Farrell has a favourite. It's a type of founding document and census for a New Brunswick community once settlers arrived.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:06:41]

Safe during the power outage

Thousands of people remain without electricity after the weekend's storm. After four people suffered from carbon monoxide poisoning, the province is also stepping up its warning against the unsafe use of generators.

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Bird Talk: All about owls

Birder Alain Clavette brings us news about an owl banding program in Quebec.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:08:29]

Shift's Political Panel: Gallant resigns - what happens next

Premier Brian Gallant's minority Liberal government has been defeated in a confidence vote in the New Brunswick Legislature, setting the stage for Progressive Conservative Leader Blaine Higgs to be sworn in as premier in the coming weeks.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:18:18]

Dealing with drug abuse in young people

The Department of Public Health held a symposium on cannabis with educators from across the province this week. Harvey Milkman was the keynote speaker. He is a drug researcher and professor of psychology at Metropolitan State University in Denver, where cannabis is legal. And he also worked with Reykjavik University in Iceland, where substance abuse was a big problem for young people 20 years ago.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:07:45]

If you haven't started already, don't rake those leaves

Word is that raking leaves may not be necessary, or even recommended this year. Andrew Holland with the Nature Conservancy of Canada says the leaves provide a winter habitat and food source for small animals and insects.

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Home Grown: Bloody butcher corn - and what to make with it

It's not unusual to see colourful corn hanging up at this time of year. But it's not just ornamental. Angela MacDougall of Fundy Farms: Local Harvest in Albert County hung up some of her Bloody Butcher Corn to dry, with plans to grind it into flour and make cornbread.

Download Home Grown: Bloody butcher corn - and what to make with it
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Finding Wilbur, the runaway pig

For three weeks, Wilbur the runaway pig has been making the rounds around Nelson, an urban neighbourhood of Miramichi. His owners have tried to get him back, to no avail. Now Ashton Corcoran hopes someone else might have an idea on how to catch the guinea hog.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:09:11]

Hats for women suffering from hair loss

Hair loss can be difficult for anyone. For many, beauty is tied to hair, its thickness and style. Fredericton hat maker Trish Hirschkorn hopes a new line of hats can help.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:07:20]

Carving detailed models of WWI military equipment

The Walter Chestnut Library in Hartland is hosting a display of military models for Remembrance Day. All of the models are made from wood by local hobby historian and carver Aaron Bouma.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:08:05]

Atlantic Wildlife Institute: Snapping turtle recovers after getting stuck

A snapping turtle that got stuck in a hole for several months is recovering at the Atlantic Wildlife Institute. It's unlikely to hibernate this year. First, director Pam Novak says it needs to put some calories back on.

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Music: Matt Boudreau hits the road with new album

Matt Boudreau has a new album out called Goeland, or Seagull. He's talks about growing up with metal music and seeing the local music scene expand to the north of the province.

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The best new brewery in New Brunswick

Several New Brunswick breweries took home awards at the Atlantic Canadian Beer Awards in Halifax. Including, Four Rivers Brewing in Bathurst, which won the award for New Brewery of the Year. The brewery opened this January, and is run by Rene Legacy, his 2 sons and brother-in-law.

Download The best new brewery in New Brunswick
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WWI through the eyes of a nurse

This Remembrance Day marks 100 years since the end of the First World War. Historian Ross Hebb has a new book that looks at the war through the letters three Maritimers with very difference experiences wrote to their loved ones back home. One of them was a nurse from New Brunswick.

Download WWI through the eyes of a nurse
[mp3 file: runs 00:08:54]

Fredericton pilot helps with relief efforts in Uganda

Matt Eagar is a pilot with Mission Aviation Fellowship in Uganda, providing free air transportation for other NGOs. Matt, his wife and their three children spent most of the year in Uganda, and return to Fredericton every year to raise funds for their work abroad.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:12:46]

Tales from the Provincial Archives: The Roosevelt Campobello International Park

Heather Lyons at the provincial archives was so intrigued by The Roosevelt Campobello International Park, she decided to do some digging into how the park came about.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:08:04]

Parks Canada plans to connect sites on Chignecto Isthmus

For years, Nova Scotia MP Bill Casey wanted to focus more attention and resources on the Chignecto Isthmus connecting his province with ours. It's home to four national historic sites: Beaubassin, Fort Beauséjour-Fort Cumberland, Fort Gaspareaux and Fort Lawrence. Now Parks Canada has developed a new management plan for the area, focusing on connecting the sites.

Download Parks Canada plans to connect sites on Chignecto Isthmus
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Chipman straight pride flag raises eyebrows with Human Rights Commission

The chair of the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission, Nathalie Chiasson, shares her concerns about the raising of a straight pride flag in Chipman earlier this week.

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Shift's Political Panel: Winning the confidence of the House

On Tuesday, PC Leader Blaine Higgs delivered what sounded like a throne speech for a Higgs government. Meanwhile, one area where each party is staking out a position is in solving the paramedic shortage issue.

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Bird Talk: A chance for waterfowl lovers to meet

Birder Alain Clavette talks about a citizen science opportunity for waterfowl lovers this weekend in the Baie Verte area. Plus he got some great photos, and sounds, of a blue-gray gnatcatcher.

Download Bird Talk: A chance for waterfowl lovers to meet
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A different take on treating PTSD

Marvin Westwood established the UBC Veterans Transition Program to help promote recovery from war-related stress injuries. It connects soldiers suffering from PTSD, and lets them reenact their traumatic experiences and work on ways to getting better over the course of several meetings.

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Drivers advised to watch out for deer in Moncton

Vanessa Blanch did some digging after we heard from a listener who hit a deer on Wheeler Blvd. Turns out there are more deer in the city.

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Australian bluesman Lloyd Spiegel

Australian bluesman Lloyd Spiegel is on a swing through the region. He's shared the stage with the likes of Etta James and Bob Dylan and now he's in the Maritimes.

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No ghouls allowed: a scientist's view

Science East's Michael Edwards says there's no scientific proof of ghosts. But they still make for lots of fun at Halloween.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:08:56]

David Adams Richards remembers Raymond Fraser

New Brunswick has lost one its most prolific writers. Raymond Fraser died yesterday at the age of 77. Senator David Adams Richards knew Fraser very well. .

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[mp3 file: runs 00:08:55]

From Potsdam to Fredericton - on a bicycle

It seems the adventure of starting life in a new country wasn't enough for Patrick Schilf of Potsdam, Germany.No - he decided to make his way to Fredericton by bicycle, with the assistance of a cargo ship.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:10:24]

New Brunswick's musical history - from the archives

There's a big event in Fredericton this Friday night that combines live music...With the provincial archives. It's a jamboree - featuring Ivan and Vivian Hicks and Gary Morris - And recordings from the archives. Vanessa talks with archivist Fred Farrell and fiddler Ivan Hicks.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:09:27]

Writer Wayne Curtis

For writer Wayne Curtis, the Miramichi is not just the name of a river or a city in New Brunswick. It's a mythical place: a river stocked with leaping, gleaming salmon, men of uncommon strength and the cares of a close-knit family. Curtis is about to launch his 18th book. He spoke with Vanessa about Fishing the High Country: A Memoir of the River.

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Farah Mohamed of the Malala Fund speaks in Sackville

Farah Mohamed spoke in Sackville this week. She's the CEO of the Malala Fund - named for Pakistani activist Malala Yousafzai who survived an assassination attempt by the Taliban for going to school. She talks to Vanessa about empowering and inspiring girls.

Download Farah Mohamed of the Malala Fund speaks in Sackville
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NB company wins entrepreneur award for training First Nations in IT

A New Brunswick business that trains First Nations in software testing just took home the national Startup Canada Social Enterprise Award. Founder Keith McIntosh says many software testing jobs have left the country. But he wanted to create employment for First Nations people who often experience under-employment and lower entrepreneurial opportunities.

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Shift's Political Panel: Speaker of the House

MLAs from every party made a show of taking their names out of the running for Speaker of the House. That would mean Liberal Premier Brian Gallant's attempt to gain the confidence of the house would be over before it could begin. Now, Lisa Harris, the acting house leader, said there would be a speaker when the house opens on Tuesday.

Download Shift's Political Panel: Speaker of the House
[mp3 file: runs 00:18:48]

Bird Talk: Becoming a better birder

Alain Clavette has spent many, many hours in the field looking for birds. And he has some tips to share on becoming a better birder.

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Homegrown

Ever wonder how to cook some of those seasonal veggies in your farm box? This week on Homegrown, Vanessa checks in with Shannon Jones of Broadfork Farm in River Hebert.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:08:51]

Author Carol Bruneau

A Circle on the Surface is a new book by Carol Bruneau that explores a hasty marriage set against the backdrop of WW 2 Halifax. She'll be in Saint John on Sunday at 2 at the public library. Here's her conversation with Vanessa.

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Our weekly update from the Atlantic Wildlife Institute

Vanessa talks to Pam Novak at the Atlantic Wildlife Institute about a porcupine that's getting a second chance after a collision.

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In the musical spotlight this week: Colin Fowlie

Fredericton's Colin Fowlie has released three songs on a new EP. It's called Harmony. And he's hitting the road for the first time as a solo act.

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Miramichi landmark severely damaged by fire

Historian Shaun O'Reilly talks to Vanessa about the former Chatham train station. It was severely damaged in a fire but he hopes it can be rebuilt.

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In praise of NB's 23rd premier, John B. McNair

Do you have a favourite premier? Britany Sparrow at the Provincial Archives certainly does! She explains why McNair is the best premier ever.

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Nb cities want a share of pot revenue

Cannabis NB is expecting $45 million dollars in sales its first fiscal year -- and that's going to create significant tax revenue. New Brunswick's cities want to make sure they get a fair share of those dollars. 8 Cities NB is calling on the province to distribute that money fairly to all regions of the province. Miramichi mayor Adam Lordon is president of the group.

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Indigenous artefacts on the Fundy Trail Parkway

When Cecilia Brooks saw the ancient tools and other artefacts uncovered as part of the work on the Fundy Trail Parkway, she knew they had a story to tell. The Parkway is a long term project nearing completion - it will link St Martin's to Fundy National Park. During work near Sussex this summer, a number of tools and implements were uncovered from the soil.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:06:25]

Panel of political observers on latest power plays and pot

Rosella Melanson, Duncan Matheson and Michael Camp share their thoughts on the latest efforts to lead New Brunswick's minority government, and what changes when cannabis is legal in 5 days.

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[mp3 file: runs 00:17:40]

Homegrown: Lesson in Soil and Compost

Rosemary Tayler has been teaching biodynamic culture and gardening since 2013.She'll be in Cogagne for a workshop Oct. 20 called "Soil compost and biodynamic preparations". She speaks with host Vanessa Vander Valk about how to get the best from your soil.

Download Homegrown: Lesson in Soil and Compost
[mp3 file: runs 00:10:16]

Gray Kingbird and the search for a Yellow-billed Cuckoo

Alain Clavette continues his birding adventure with his mother. She gets her 300th lifetime bird - and it's a Gray Kingbird. That's a first confirmed sighting in New Brunswick!

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[mp3 file: runs 00:08:37]

Not your grampy's radio

You might think of hamm radios as a thing of the past, but with the way we rely on technology these days the importance of hamm radios might make a come back. Mike Johnson is with the WestCumb Amateur Radio Club, and he's also the Cumberland Regional Emergency Management coordinator.

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