Border Restrictions Eased for Cross Border Families -- and other news highlights

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced a loosening of the Canada-US border to reunite families on Monday. Immediate family members of permanent residents and citizens can now enter Canada provided they can show proof they are able to self-quarantine for 14 days. Canadians welcoming loved ones will also need to confirm that they have a suitable place to quarantine with access to basic necessities. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the international border has been a source of issues for Campobello Islanders who rely on a bridge to Lubec, Maine to connect to the mainland. Fortunately, the seasonal ferry from Deer Island to Campobello  will begin operation for the season on Monday, June 15, 2020.

85% of summer tourism to Campobello Island comes from Americans. Tinker is hoping more New Brunswickers make the effort to discover Campobello this year. Over in Saint Andrews, many tourist attractions such as the The Huntsman Aquarium and Kingsbrae Garden have already opened their doors for the season. The  Oppenheimer-Prager Museum at Dayspring, an art museum in the former home of Lady Beaverbrook, is set to open June 12. Ministers Island, the historic former estate of Sir William Van Horne, is also opening on June 12th, with exciting new additions to the 2020 season.

"We are pleased to announce that this year we now have upscale food trucks on the island, so visitors can spend the whole day visiting, including having lunch on the island," said Brian Usher, Director of Operations at Ministers Islands. Visitors to the historic island can now buy their tickets online to help increase social distancing measures.

Many Southwest New Brunswick businesses have been dedicated throughout all stages of the pandemic to adapting responsibly to COVID-19. Despite challenges, the Southwest New Brunswick Service Commission worked diligently to keep recycling from going to the landfill, recycling over 120 tonnes in March and April. Hats to the entire community for that. 

The Charlotte County community is also planning to take a stand in the Black Lives Matter movement with a march in St. Stephen on Friday, June 12th. Beginning at the Charlotte County mall at 3pm, participants will march peacefully down King Street to town square. Organizers are asking people who have been outside the province or in Campbellton in the last 14 days to stay home. Those who participate are asked to wear masks.