2009-04-20:
04:15:10:
Common Council will hear an idea from Councilor Gary Sullivan about installing GPS tracking systems in city vehicles at tonight's meeting. Sullivan tells CHSJ News, installing tracking devices isn't about catching slackers, it's to ensure city services are being followed through with efficiency.
Sullivan says technology is used in other sectors to monitor quality and there is no reason the devices should not be installed.
2009-04-20:
04:14:07:
Details are still being ironed after an early morning chase between two vehicles in French Village. It was just after one o'Clock when Rothesay Regional Police were called to the area to find two vehicles chasing each other. Officer's are still taking statements from the nine people involved including seven in one vehicle.
Windows were blown out of one vehicle and one of the people could be facing an assault with a weapon charge.
2009-04-20:
04:13:16:
It turned out to be a deadly weekend in Greater Saint John. City Police were called to the Acamac-Backland Road last night around nine o'clock to find a 41-year old man's body had fallen from an ATV and details on what happened are sketchy. Officer's do tell us there may have been an accident on the bike before the driver came off of the vehicle. No name or age is being released and it could be a few days before it is as most of the man's family is out of Province.
City Police are still working out the details as well after a body was found in East Saint John on Saturday. It was just after 2:30pm the man was discovered in a wooded area near the McAllister Place Mall. An autopsy has been performed but no name or age are being released. Police believe they know who the man is and there are some missing persons files they still have on record.
2009-04-19
14:21:19
Man's body found behind McAllister Place yesterday afternoon around 2:30. At this point city police don't believe it is anything suspicious, however, they are looking into all leads before closing the case. An autopsy is being performed.
2009-04-19
13:39:54
Fire will be blazing in the base Gagetown area beginning today as the annual Spring Grass Burn Program gets underway. It's carried out every year to reduce the build-up of patches of dead grass in the training area's.
Burning will be carried out during normal working hours and only when weather conditions are favourable. It is scheduled to be finished by May 15th.
2009-04-19
13:39:10
Dancers in Greater Saint John will be warming up their moves over the next two days. So You Think You Can Dance Canada hits the city for the first time ever, Tuesday at the Imperial Theater.
The lineup begins at 6 am and official registration starts at 8 o'clock. Those looking to audition will have a chance to speak with host Leah Miller, and choreographer Blake McGrath.
2009-04-19
13:38:25
A slow but steady start in Rothesay this year as far as construction is concerned. Last month, the Town brought in over $235,000 dollars and for the same time last year, it was $1.2 million. So far this year, over two million dollars in construction work has been complete which is well ahead of last years total at this time which was $1.6. million.
No new major projects are on the books but Town Officials will unveil their new Muncipal Plan next month which could re-zone vacant lots in the town.
2009-04-19
13:37:31
A big crowd is expected today at the Bellisle Ferry landing. This as organizers of the Save the Ferry Run host a barbeque on the vessel this afternoon between two and five. Organizer Linda Watson tells CHSJ News, there will be plenty going on as they continue to get people up to speed on the how the fight to save the service is going:
Wioth two weeks to go before the Province pulls the cable on the Bellisle, Hampstead and Gagetown Ferry runs, Watson says the group continues to work hard and when asked, she says the ferry service will be saved no matter what.
2009-04-19
13:36:56
RCMP are still trying to piece together evidence after a 16-year old boy from Sussex was killed. Officers were called to Maple Avenue early yesterday morning to find a 16-year old boy had been hit by a train. Officers do know he was hit by the locomotive while crossing the tracks at the mid-way point between Main Street and Rosemont Avenue.
He was rushed to the Regional here in Saint John but died a short time later from his injuries.
2009-04-19
13:36:09
There are thirteen people who are left out of their homes until repairs can be made to their fire ravaged homes along McLaren Boulevard. Fortunately no one hurt as the blaze spread through four townhouses early this morning, and the fire was quickly beaten back by the Saint John Fire Department. Everyone should be able to return to their homes between 45-51 McLaren once the site has been cleaned up and repaired. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
2009/04/18
10:30:25
Can't wait for Wednesday to start celebrating Earth Day? Well Dave Thompson with the Conservation Council is inviting everyone to come out to Mispec Park for an Earth Day Hike.
Thompson says the hike is to get people prepared for earth day, and a earth friendly way to enjoy a Saturday afternoon.
The hike gets started at 1 o'clock, and is approximately 1 and a half kilometres.
2009/04/18/
06:19:57
One man is in custody after a shooting incident on Main Street North early this morning.
Around 5 am police responded to several shots fired on the the street, and confirm arresting one male and the seizure of a firearm.
There were also shots fired just outside the IceBerg Pub on Union Street last night around midnight.
Police say the shooter took off shortly afterwords, and are investigating.
Also in the early hours of this morning a woman was mugged while walking on Rothesay Avenue. While walking several young people jumped her from behind, and made off with some personal items. She was not injured.
2009/04/18
06:12:27
A police spot check is the reason a 33 year old man stepped on the gas to escape the long arm of the arm of the law last night, only to wind up in custody.
Police pulled a vehicle over on Chesley Drive around 8 o'clock and the driver fled as the officer left his vehicle.
Police could not pursue due to traffic, and the vehicle slammed into a van on the Reversing Falls Bridge.
There were two adults and two children in the van, and the 27 year old mother was taken to the hospital for minor injuries.
The driver was arrested for reckless driving, and police say he sped off because of an existing warrant.
2009/04/18
05:27:32
It will be a tense weekend for all those living in the Greater Sussex Area. The Region B Health Authority has shut down the Emergency Department at the Sussex Health Center because there is no doctor to cover off the shift today and into tomorrow. That means the ER is closed to all emergencies between 10:30pm tonight and eight o’clock tomorrow morning.
If you require emergency service, dial 911 or make your way to the Regional here in Saint John or one of the two hospitals in Moncton.
2009-04-17
17:45:55
Saturday marks International Record Store Day and Saint John's only vinyl record store, Backstreet Records, is celebrating. From 1pm to 5pm today the Germain Street business will be hosting music performances from Duncan Thomas, The Straw Men and Grand Theft Bus. Owner Gordie Tufts tells CHSJ news this is the busiest time of the year for his business and it's a welcome experience in today's music industry with so many stores closing.
International Record Store Day began three years ago in the United States. Tufts says their first celebration last year attracted close to 250 people.
2009-04-17
17:44:26
The fine details continue to be worked out by the Town of Rothesay of what the future holds for their half of Millennium Drive. Walmart and the Shannex Assisted Living Complex were lost when residents opposed re-zoning the property. A new municipal plan will be unveiled next month and Mayor Bill Bishop tells CHSJ News, right now, there are no applications for the property.
Bishop adds it is valuable land and means loss tax dollars when it continues to sit empty.
2009-04-17
16:50:30
The provincial opposition says the Graham government's argument for canceling three rural ferries at the end of the month doesn't hold any water. Premier Shawn Graham has said replacing the aging ferries would cost 12 million dollars but Conservative MLA for Saint John Portland, Trevor Holder, says Transport Canada has not even been contacted to inspect the ferries and questions where the dollar figure came from.
The provincial government plans to dry dock the Belleisle, Gagetown and Hampstead ferries by the end of April. Holder says when asked, the Premier would not say he won't shut down more ferries in the future.
2009-04-17
16:09:26
City politicians are standing proud of Saint John's continued economic growth and vast number of development projects underway. Councilor Bill Farren says while the rest of the globe is hurting, Saint John is thriving.
General Manager of Enterprise Saint John, Steve Carson, says new businesses such as Costco, a cultural centre and even work on the One Mile Interchange will dramatically boost the city's lifestyle. Mayor Ivan Court says the country is envious of the economic growth spurt Saint John is experiencing.
2009-04-17:
11:25:48:
By the end of the day, the list of candidates for the head coaches job with the Saint John Seadogs will be narrowed down to five. Team officials are working on their short-list and President Wayne Long tells CHSJ News, despite what you may have heard, Ted Nolan is not a candidate.
Nolan is still under contract and can't speak with anyone about a new job. Long says they hope to make their decision by the end of next month to have their new man in place for the midget draft in Moncton in June.
2009-04-17:
11:24:51:
Irving Oil is putting a new look on a piece of it's property. Their Tank Farm on the far side of the causeway near Bayside Drive has been undergoing some clearing over the past several months. Company spokes-person Leslie McLeod tells CHSJ News, it is a beautification project they have taken on after the property has been sitting vacant for quite some time.
Beginning Monday, crews will begin laying sod and planting shrubs in the area with the hope of being finished by the end of spring.
2009-04-17:
11:23:59:
The Provincial Conservatives are calling a move by Health Minister Mike Murphy nothing more than public relations. Rothesay MLA Margaret Ann Blaney along with Leader David Alward have been calling for the resignation of Murphy in recent weeks. They say he knew about the possible closure of the Canadian Blood Services Distribution Center for close to a year, but Murphy has produced documents that show the Conservatives voted to close the facility in 2002. Blaney tells CHSJ News, in speaking with former Health Minister Elvy Robichaud, the move has been on CBS's agenda for quite some time.
Blaney says the bottom line is, when the Conservatives left power in 2006, Canadian Blood Services was here to stay.
2009-04-17:
11:22:49:
A 30-year old man from Saint John has a court date on Grand Manan July.16th. This after RCMP arrested someone yesterday for trafficking in ecstasy on the Island. They believe it happened a week ago but found a person who they believe bought some of the pills and were able to put together enough evidence to make an arrest.
The 30-year old has also been told to stay off Grand Manan until his court appearance.
2009-04-17:
03:52:22:
A grass fire at Shamrock Park in the North End last night has resulted in one young person being arrested and charged. City Fire and Police arrived on the scene and took one person into custody who has since been released until their date with the judge. Last night's blaze brings the total of grass fires this week to over 20 including 11 on Wednesday alone.
Divisional Chief Kevin Clifford spoke with CHSJ News just two weeks ago and reminds anyone thinking of lighting a grass fire that it is ARSON, it is dangerous to property and people and if caught, you will be charged.
2009-04-16
18:13:03
Members of the Canadian Union of Public Employees are planning to hold a demonstration in front of the legislature Friday in opposition to the cancellation of three provincial ferries. Spokesperson Rev Robert McDowell tells CHSJ News they will gather at the Boyce Farmer's Market parking lot and begin a parade to the legislature at 11:AM.
Last month's provincial budget announced the elimination of ferry service at Gagetown, Hampstead and Belleisle as a cost-cutting measure. Rural residents and those who work on the ferries believe the elimination of the ferry service at the end of the month will hurt their life style. Meanwhile, the group "Save Our Ferries" will be hosting a BBQ directly on the Belleisle ferry this Sunday from 2-5 pm. They will be raising money in support of their Legal Fund to fight the Liberal government's decision to shut down the ferry service.
2009-04-16
16:17:05
A Saint John girl has been arrested in connection with the theft of 17 thousand dollars from a senior citizen in Rothesay. The Rothesay Regional Major Crime unit made the arrest today and the young woman will appear in court at a later date.
15 thousand dollars of the stolen money has been recovered--but--police are cautioning people to never leave large sums of money in their homes.
2009-04-16
16:16:13
Water levels along the St. John River are dropping. As a result of cooler, dryer temperatures over the last 48 hours, water levels along the entire river basin continue to decrease. The provincial Emergency Measures Organization says there have been no major problems with regard to flooding or ice jams.
Water levels are forecast to continuing sinking over the next 72 hours.
2009-04-16
13:23:12
The Saint John Emergency Management Organization is conducting a survey to determine how well residents think the city is prepared for an emergency. The questions will gauge their understanding and expectations for emergency preparedness as well as their perception of the city's role during an emergency.
The results of this study are aimed at strengthening city-wide emergency awareness. To take the 15 minute survey click here.
2009-04-16
12:51:53
Four men have been charged following a joint forces operation targeting a Hells Angels cell operating in northwestern New Brunswick. Emery “Pit” Martin, the only full patch member of the Hells Angels known to be living in the province, was among those arrested. His associates Reginald Martin of Sainte-Anne-de-Madawaska, Eric Martin of Grand Falls and Michel Rivard of Saint-Quentin are also facing charges.
They include conspiracy to traffic in controlled substances, gangsterism, being members of an organized crime group, and committing a criminal act for a criminal organization. Martin is also charged with conspiracy to commit murder. Police seized drugs, drug equipment and firearms during operation Jacoby on Tuesday.
2009-04-16
12:19:41
The Department of Transportation is responding to criticism for spending 8 thousand dollars repairing a cable on a river ferry it plans to shut down in a few weeks. Service was stopped on the Gagetown ferry last week after ice broke the main tie-down but it is expected to return to service today. Spokesperson Andrew Holland tells CHSJ news the government is keeping its promise on a 30-day moratorium for ending the Gagetown and Belleisle ferry runs.
Last month's provincial budget announced the elimination of ferry service at Gagetown, Hampstead and Belleisle as a cost-cutting measure. They will stop running at the end of the month.
2009-04-16
11:33:08
Not everyone around the council horseshoe is convinced spending tax-payer money on a new police-justice headquarters is the best route to go. At a cost of $25 million dollars, Deputy Mayor Stephen Chase tells CHSJ News, the way the proposal is delivered could impact the cost favourably including a public-private partnership which includes commercial development.
Chase says at this point, he is reserving his support for the final analysis of the proposal at this time but certainly hopes it is something City Hall can deliver. Councilor Bill Farren says he is also willing to put the brakes on the project if the cost for tax-payers is too high.
2009-04-16
11:31:36
Officials in District Eight continue to try and utilize their facilities to get the best return for students and the bottom line. There is a proposal on the table to convert M. Gerald Teed to a Kindergarten to Grade Two facility and move the grades 3, 4 and 5 to Millidgeville North and create an English language middle school program. Chairman of the District Eight Education Council Rob Fowler tells CHSJ News, this proposal works for the DEC members.
Fowler says re-registration forms are being sent home with students from Lorne and M. Gerald Teed to state their preference on where they would like their students to go to school. If the numbers add up the way District Officials hope, this new set-up will go into effect in the fall.
2009-04-16
11:30:41
Your opinion is in high demand as the city is asking residents to speak up on what they want to see on it's website. Most specifically they want your three top wishes and Deputy City Manager Andrew Beckett tells CHSJ News, there will be more attempts made to get the public involved.
An Open House was held last night with a small turn-out. Beckett adds they will consider using focus groups to analyze the website upgrades. If you want to have your say, you can check out the survey by going to our website at country94.ca and click on the link.
2009-04-16
11:29:53
The Centre for Criminal Justice Studies at UNB Saint John is looking to increase it's profile and the work they are doing along with the Mental Health Court. The director is Dr. Mary Ann Campbell who says the centre tries to reduce or prevent criminal behavior by researching character traits and the mind set of criminals. Campbell says people only hear about criminals who re-offend, not those who benefit from the work being done at the Mental Health Court.
Campbell says she has had discussions with Police Chief Bill Reid about working together in the future to help prevent crime in the city.
2009-04-16
11:29:01
Future workers will get their first taste of what a full-time job is all about today. J.D. Irving and the Province are hosting Job Fest at the Trade and Convention Center where over 400 students from Districts Six, Eight and Ten are taking take part.
The set-up gives grade 11 students information and insight to help make the connection between their education and their search for a job.
2009-04-16
11:28:15
Several Saint John residents will be honored by the YM-YWCA tonight. Their annual Red Triangle Awards ceremony will honor Eric Savoie as the leader to watch this year and the Red Triangle Award is going to the Y's Men's Club. The group has been serving the greater good in Saint John for over 80 years.
Savoie began his volunteer career at the "Y" while taking part in the Leader Corps Program. The Red Triangle Award has been handed out since 1990 and tonight's ceremony gets started at 6:30pm at the Delta.
2009-04-16:
04:01:08:
Nothing major but the price for gasoline is up this week. The Energy and Utilities Board has released it's weekly price schedule which shows the maximum retail for gasoline has jumped to 85.4 which is up not even quite a penny from a week ago. Most stations are selling a litre for 85.7.
Diesel is down percentage points at just over 90 cents, furnace oil is also down just under a penny at 70.9 and propane is down to 83.3.
2009-04-16:
04:00:08:
A robbery, a beating and an arson. Just a few of the files City Police had to deal with last night. The first call of note came just before 9:30pm to the Fundy Line Motel on Rothesay Avenue for a robbery. Officer's were told two men kicked in the door of a room, stole some items and threw around a woman that was staying there. There was also damage to her vehicle. She is shaken up but is going to be alright. Twenty minutes later officer's showed up in the North End to find a man with his head split open after being hit with something twice. None of his stuff was taken as he never went down after being hit. He was taken to the Regional to get stitched up and is going to be fine.
Then just after one this morning, a vehicle was found burning on Station Street. Officer's know the license plates do not belong to the vehicle and believe this is a case of arson. Major Crime has been called in for all three incident.
2009-04-15:
19:46:08:
A steering committee is in place and a decision on whether or not Health Minister Mike Murphy is on board with expanding methodone treatment programs in the city is near. Police Chief Bill Reid says another meeting with the minister is in order, but he is optimistic about the decision and expanding addiction programs in the city is necessary.
Murphy has said previously that drugs are a major concern throughout the province, but specifically in Saint John because addiction affects the public image of the city.
2009-04-15:
19:40:02:
Students and workers at the Centre for Criminal Justice Studies at UNB Saint John will be working with city police to help try and reduce the amount of criminal activity in the city. The director is Dr. Mary Ann Campbell who says through research, information can be used to help prevent criminals from re offending.
Campbell says the public often only hears about criminals who re offend, not those who benefit from treatment. A future goal for the Centre for Criminal Justice Studies is to provide professional workshops to help police deal with criminals who offend because of mental issues.
2009-04-15:
19:39:03:
Expect to see some activity in the Red head Road Area in the coming weeks. Pomerloe Incorporated from Dartmouth will get started with construction of the new Eastern Waste Water treatment Facility, set up near the existing Hazen Creek plant off the Red Head Road. Brian Keenan is with Saint John Water and tells CHSJ News, environmental concerns have been factored in with work so close to the Red Head Marsh.
When construction of the facility gets started the first week of May, crews will begin construction of 20 pumping stations that will re-direct waste-water to the new facility. The $51.8 million dollar project should be finished in two and half years.
2009-04-15:
19:37:34:
The Kennebecasis Seniors Club wants to make sure it's needs are not being lost in this process. Currently using space at St. Davids Church, things are getting crowded for their needs as they share space with a day-care and badminton club. Elaine Bacon tells CHSJ News, more ice time, basketball courts and a place for people to get exercise is great but they want to make their voice heard.
Bacon loves the idea of a multi-purpose field house as long as space is made available for their club.
2009-04-15:
19:36:33:
By the third week of June, we should have a better indication where the Town of Rothesay plans to invest some tax-payers dollars. An open house was held at the Town Hall last night to get feed back from residents on what their Recreation Master Plan should include....... a multi-purpose field house, new rink, new trails or something else? ADI Architecture is putting together the final report and tells CHSJ News, all municipalities are facing recreational issues.
A draft of the report should be finished by the third week of June.
2009-04-15:
18:52:06:
Your opinion is in high demand--- the city is looking for residents to speak up on what they want to see available online. Most specifically they want your three top wishes, a public meeting was held last night and despite a poor turnout Deputy City Manager Andrew Beckett tells CHSJ News there will be more attempts made to get the public involved.
Beckett says they will consider using focus groups to analyze the website upgrades. If you want to have your say you can check out the survey by going to our website at country94.ca.
2009-04-15
17:28:12
A conflict of interest hearing is being held for the President & CEO of NB Liquor for allegedly breaching the province’s Conflict of Interest Act. Dana Clendenning was appointed President and CEO of the province’s Crown Corporation just days after Premier Shawn Graham was elected Premier in 2006.
Before that Clendenning became involved with Fredericton businessman Barry O’Donnell and offered to lobby for funding to help grow and support O’Donnell’s call centre business. O’Donnell says he received invoices for services rendered by Clendenning’s consulting company until April 2007. Under the Conflict of Interest Act, those employed as heads of crown corporations are not permitted to carry on other business. The hearing for Clendenning is scheduled for June 4th.
2009-04-15
15:23:59
The wife of a man wrongfully convicted of murder in 1975 is seeking compensation from the provincial government. Angela Walsh walked with UNB law students today to the provincial legislature to ask the government to table the petition in support of her husband, Erin Walsh.
Walsh, now 60 years old, was acquitted on March 14th of last year by the New Brunswick Court of Appeal in the Saint John murder of Melvin (Chi Chi) Peters. This after new evidence surfaced in 2005. Acting Justice Minister, Greg Byrne, and Premier Shawn Graham both refused to table the petition and would not speak to the law students during the daily legislative sitting. Opposition critic Tony Huntjens agreed to offer the petition into the official record.
2009-04-15
15:17:51
Enterprise Saint John is hoping to break the disconnect between employers and potential employees in the city. CEO Steve Carson says they are are focusing on workforce expansion and connecting young people with opportunities.
Carson says they want to get information from employers about their needs today, six months from now and two years from now, so that students can move in the right direction. He says they have already recruited an executive director and volunteers to lead the initiative.
2009-04-15
15:17:02
The MLA for Charlotte-The Isles wants to work with JD Irving to come up with a solution to flooding problems along the Magaguadavic River and Lake Utopia. Rick Doucet tells CHSJ news rising water levels have been a problem for many years and he has received several calls again this year.
Doucet says he believes there is a better way of controlling the water without flooding people's properties and homes. He says it's a great opportunity to clear the air between residents and JD Irving.
2009-04-15
13:47:24
Money from the federal New Horizons for Seniors Program is going toward a new fundraising idea by Hospice of Saint John. The non-profit organization plans to open a thrift store run by volunteers, selling donated items. MP Rodney Weston made the announcement today and tells CHSJ news he has been working with Hospice to identify where money is needed.
Vice-chair of the Hospice board of directors, Cathy Connolly tells us the funding will help with the research and administrative costs of setting up the thrift store which could generate up to $150,000 in revenue for Hospice. Connolly says they are currently considering locations on both the West and East side of the city.
2009-04-15:
10:27:03:
Wind power continues to be locked into the radar of the Department of Energy. It has released it's report on the best practices for model wind turbine provisions. It will act as a resource for local governments concerning wind energy projects and will provide guidance for future zoning and the issuing of permits for wind farms throughout the province.
The report provides a summary of best practices from around the world in choosing sites for wind farms. It addresses public concerns relating to their development, including noise, visual effects, and interference with telecommunications. The Kent Hills Wind Farm has been operating since January with construction on several more continuing around the Province.
2009-04-15:
10:26:13:
Still on the subject of the Recreation Master Plan for Rothesay, your invited to an open house to discuss the proposal today between 4-8 o'clock. Town Officials and representatives from A.D.I. Architecture will be on hand to discuss what they have so far and get all of your input before finalizing the report next month.
All sports leagues are looking to state their case about what sports facility needs to be constructed with-in the town to meet the most urgent need. The open house is at the Town Hall.
2009-04-15:
10:25:19:
Town officials in Rothesay are planning for the future. They have applied for the authority to borrow three million dollars over 15 years for possible renovations to their arena. Mayor Bill Bishop tells CHSJ News, it's no mystery the building needs some work but this is just to make sure the money will be there if and when they might need it.
Bishop adds once the Recreation Master plan is complete, then they will know which direction they will go in. That report is scheduled to be finished by the middle or end of next month.
2009-04-15:
10:24:09:
If your daily commute takes you along Campbell Drive and Highway 111, there is no need to remind you about some of the traffic chaos which has and continues to unfold in the area. According to Rothesay Regional Police, there have been 117 accidents in this area since 2004 and the Deputy Mayor of Rothesay is requesting a traffic study of the area. Blair MacDonald tells CHSJ News, he is sure something can be done.
The Town will send their request to the Transportation Department in the coming days.
2009-04-15:
10:22:57:
The Task Force set up to keep Canadian Blood Services Distribution Center in Saint John held it's first meeting with stakeholders last night. Health Department Officials met with the four members of the Legislature which includes Rothesay Conservative Margaret Ann Blaney who tells CHSJ News, it was to get a wider understanding of what the distribution center means to all levels of health care.
Blaney says the next move for the Task Force is to meet with medical health professionals and then officials from CBS as they continue to build their case.
2009-04-15:
10:21:50:
Members of the Hells Angels are feeling the sting of the RCMP in this Province and Quebec. it a joint operation aimed at disrupting the criminal activities of the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club in both provinces. Things got started early this morning with numerous search warrants being executed. Officers are proceeding with the seizure of a commercial business in the northwestern half of the Province.
There have been numerous arrests so far and charges include conspiracy to commit murder, murder, trafficking in controlled substance and gangsterism.
2009-04-15:
06:49:12:
If you've been wondering if anyone from Saint John has grabbed one of the grand prizes in this years Roll Up the Rim to win contest......wonder no more. Michael Robichaud will pick up his 2009 Toyota Venza later this morning.
Robichaud bought his winning coffee at the MCallister Drive Tim Hortons and that is where he will be presented the keys to his new vehicle this morning at eleven o'clock.
2009-04-15:
03:43:14:
The future use of a piece of property in Rothesay continues to un-fold. 37 Gondola Point has sat vacant for years and there is now environmental concerns after a large oil spill back in 2002. The property falls under a Heritage Designation and this is where things get complicated. The Heritage Board wants the property advertised at fair market value, which they feel is around $200,000 dollars before giving permission to bring in the wreckers ball. The owner wants to list the property for over one million dollars. Mayor Bill Bishop tells CHSJ News, the power given to the Heritage Board is to preserve the Town's past.
The Environment Department has given the owners three months to clean the property up. The owner, Steve Murphy was at last night's council meeting but declined to speak with us saying now would not be a good time for him to say something he might regret.
2009-04-15:
03:42:30:
An all too familiar call of late for City Fire Crews last night . Another house fire, this time in the uptown at 53 Albert Street. Crews arrived at 7:30pm to find smoke and flames coming from the building where the fire started in the bedroom of an apartment in the back.
All 12 people in the building got out safely and have been put up by the Red Cross or are staying with family and friends. No word yet on how the fire started but the bottom half of the building has been heavily damaged.
2009-04-15
00:27:17
The city's winter management plan continues to be a work in progress. City councilors poked holes through the Commissioner of Municipal Operations' proposed snow-clearing plan last night. Among other things, Paul Groody is suggesting the city ban overnight on-street parking during the winter for most of the city. That means some uptown residents may have to park one street away from where they live. This has the ire up of councilor Donnie Snook who lives uptown.
Groody says the solution is adequate off-street parking. Groody says the city needs to significantly reduce the number of vehicles on the streets during snow storms if people want good quality service. He is also recommending council keep a contingency snow-clearing fund every year, and increase by-law enforcement against people dumping snow on sidewalks. Council has referred their questions about the plan to the city manager.
2009-04-15
00:25:32
The late Esmonde Barry has been awarded posthumously for his work to improve seniors' health care. The Coalition for Seniors and Nursing Home Residents' Rights presented the award to his wife Maureen during last night's council meeting. Mayor Ivan Court says his contributions to health care will live on forever.
Barry formed the coalition in 2004 to bring justice to seniors.
2009/04/14
17:15:51
Rodney Miller, one half of the Moores Mills couple on trail in the death of their baby will remain behind bars until a future court date.
The 27 year old Miller is facing first degree murder charges, while 19 year old Sarah Russel has been charged with manslaughter and accessory after the fact.
RCMP determined the baby was killed and then the body was hidden.
Both the crown and the defense council waived a preliminary hearing for Miller, with his future court date still undetermined.
Russel will be in front of a judge on April 20th.
2009/04/14
15:49:31
The Plan for Lower Taxes in New Brunswick is being introduced by Finance Minister Victor Boudreau and plans to guarantee tax savings throughout the province.
The four year plan will start showing benefits as of the 1st of July, and ensures every New Brunswicker will be protected from inflation.
One change found in the plan is to provide lower taxes for businesses. The general corporate income tax rate is being reduced by 1 per cent, and will continue to shave off a percentage every year until 2012.
For information on where to find complete details on the changes, check out http://www.gnb.ca/0160/budget/buddoc2009/Plan_for_lower_taxes-e.pdf
2009/04/14
14:48:05
M-P Rodney Weston is not holding back against Health Minister Mike Murphy when it comes to moving the Canadian Blood Services Distribution Centre from Saint John to Halifax.
Weston met with the Minister this morning, and says Murphy sits on the board for CBS, and he needs to speak out against losing this resource. He says Murphy needs to fight for the residents of this province and do his job.
Weston says if he was sitting on the board he would be fighting to keep this service in the city.
Weston says he has met with many health professionals around the province who all say the CBS centre on University Avenue needs to stay where it is.
2009/04/14
14:46:47
Meanwhile, Senator John Wallace says removing the blood distribution centre will badly hurt Saint John, and the province.
Wallace says the closure of the CBS Clinic will hurt all medical programs, and medical professionals in the city, as well as the entire province.
Wallace says this closure cannot happen, and he and his colleagues are going to do everything they can to stop the closure of this facility.
2009/04/14
14:46:00
A lucky Saint John student is the winner of a $750 dollar scholarship for taking part in the New Brunswick Securities Commission Financial Fitness Challenge.
Rosalinda Kan of Saint John High School successfully completed the challenge online, and was entered to win the scholarship.
Education Coordinator with NBSC Marissa Irgnanesi tells CHSJ News, the scholarship was handed out to one student in each province at random to successful candidates.
Nearly 700 students in New Brunswick took part in the annual event, and Irgnanesi says more than 90 per cent of students who took part say they knew more about budgeting and saving money after the exercise.
2009-04-14:
10:34:19:
An update today on a fire that ripped through a North End apartment building back on the 3rd. Officials tell CHSJ News, they have every reason to believe the fire started due to an electrical problem. 15 people have been left with no place to call home after the building at 349 Main Street was gutted.
Nobody was hurt and crews were called to the scene just before six in the morning to find smoke and flames pouring from the roof area.
2009-04-14:
10:33:11:
Work continues tonight for the Task Force put together to try and stop Canadian Blood Services from moving out of Saint John to Halifax by 2012. They will meet tonight with officials from the Department of Health who will brief them on everything to date and share information they have. Rothesay Conservative MLA Margaret Ann Blaney is a member of the group of four and tells CHSJ News, she expects the next move will be to meet with stake-holders as they put together their business case to keep the distribution center on University Avenue.
The other members of the task force are Saint John Fundy MLA Stuart Jamieson, Post-Secondary Education Minister Donald Arsenault and MLA for Tracadie Sheila Claude Landry.
2009-04-14:
10:32:17:
Moncton will provide the back drop for the launch of a Canada-wide campaign to keep health care public tomorrow. It is being launched by the Canadian Health Coalition and in their release say, will take direct aim at Health Minister Mike Murphy, challenging him to keep the province’s health care system public. The Coalition believes Minister Murphy is looking at ways to introduce privatized, for-profit health care to the province.
Several will be on hand for the news conference including former President of the New Brunswick Nurses Union and now President of the Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions Linda Silas. in the days following the news conference, several town hall style meetings will be held including one here in Saint John next Monday at the Delta.
2009-04-14:
10:31:17:
There is still on an empty seat on the Liberal side of the Legislature floor. This as Saint John East MLA Roly MacIntrye continues his recovery from surgery earlier this year. He underwent double by-pass the last week of February and his recovery time appears to be right on schedule. The party office in Fredericton tells CHSJ News, Macintyre is doing well with some light exercise, but there is no time table for his return to work.
Doctors have told him not to do so until he feels he is ready. Macintyre is keeping in touch with his colleagues and Premier Graham, who are also keeping tabs on his recovery.
2009-04-14:
10:30:08:
Music fans in Atlantic Canada have plenty to choose from this summer. The latest concert will hit Halifax August.2nd on Citadell Hill and will feature former Van Halen front man Sammy Hagar's latest project, Chicken Foot. Other acts for what is being billed as Canadian Forces Halifax Rock-Fest are Sloan, Finger 11 and Our Lady Peace.
Other concerts in the area in the coming months include AC/DC in Moncton on August.6th, Reba Macintyre and Tim McGraw will be in Charlottetown in July and KISS will play the Halifax Common on July.18th.
2009-04-14:
04:33:07:
A worker at the Post Office on Rothesay Avenue was taken to the Regional to get looked over last night. This after a package broke open and a white powder spilled all over the employee around 10:30pm. The Haz-mat Unit shut down the building until they discovered the powder was a beauty product.
City Police are also still investigating reports of shots being fired in East Saint John. Officers were called to the Loch Lomond Road just before three yesterday afternoon. No reports of anyone hurt and no arrests have been made.
2009-04-13
15:33:26
The International Longshoreman's Association intends to take the Irving Oil headquarter deal for Long Wharf to the Federal Court of Canada. Irving Oil and the Saint John Port Authority have received the federal government's blessing for a land swap of the former Lantic Sugar site for the wharf, where Irving plans to build its new office complex. I-L-A Business Agent Pat Riley tells CHSJ news they will fight the deal on legal grounds.
Riley says the port authority has failed to prove the land at Long Wharf is surplus. He also says his union has been denied a meeting with the federal minister, as well as Saint John MP Rodney Weston, to talk about the issue.
2009-04-13
15:32:31
A former leader of the provincial opposition has passed away. Danny Cameron died Sunday at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital in Fredericton at the age of 85.
A veteran of the Canadian Forces, Cameron led the official opposition between 1991 and 1995 as leader of the Confederation of Regions Party.
2009-04-13:
11:39:37:
Management at Irving Oil can't help but smile today after the word that came down from Ottawa late last week. The federal government has given its blessing to the companies proposed plans to build a new office headquarters on Long Wharf. Spokes-person Leslie McLeod tells CHSJ News, there is still no word on what the final price-tag of the proposal is or how many people might be going to work.
Early estimates indicate the building could cost close to $30 million. Still with Irving Oil, maintenance crews continue to work on the "G" tank at the refinery. No indication yet as to what was causing oil to pool on the top of the tank. It has been emptied and now word on how long the work will continue.
2009-04-13:
11:38:47:
Some news today that is sure to make home-owners in Rothesay sleep a little better. Three fires that hit a neighborhood on Tuesday of last week are all being called accidents. CHSJ News has learned the fire at 5 Dunedin Road was due to a failure of electrical service which may have sparked a blaze at 20 Dunedin just moments later when a fire broke out underneath the sink area. Fire officials are still investigating.
As for the flames that ripped through 4 Newport, there is still no word on what started the fire which destroyed the home. Damage is so extensive, it could be a few more days before investigators know what sparked the blaze.
2009-04-13:
10:37:28:
Fortunes may be turning for those living on Provincial coastlines. With no major flooding over the weekend, the outlook for the next few days is for cooler, drier air and that should make for a gradual thaw. In Fredericton and below it, some secondary roads are holding water but Karl Wilmot with Emergency Measures tells CHSJ News, the water levels are dropping and ice jams in some area's are breaking up.
Wilmot adds the ice jams in Restigouche and the Miramichi are status quo but not holding alot of water.
2009-04-13:
08:49:54:
(Photo Courtesy of Barry Ogden)
A piece of the city's history has been un-covered on an uptown building. Layers of paint are being pealed off the new home of the Saint John Theater Company on Princess Street and the remnants of two business signs, Hudson Super Six and the Essex Motor Car can be seen. Brian Goodwin is vice-president and tells CHSJ News, the building dates back to 1911.
As for the renovations to the Theater Company, Goodwin says they are about 90% done with a grand opening planned for this summer.
2009-04-13:
06:22:36:
Along with some chocolate......the Easter Bunny dropped off some snow around the Province. The hardest hit area was Moncton which received 22cm's and Bouctouche got 19cm's. Most of the communities in and around Kent County got hit with anywhere between 10-15cm's to go along with high winds and some rain.
Greater Saint John did wake up to 5cm's, more in some spots but nothing serious. The full three day forecast is coming right up.
2009-04-13:
04:38:49:
Don't know what to do with the old broken cell phone cluttering up your junk drawer? The Canadian Wireless Telecommunications Association has started a program to help prevent old wireless devices from ending up in a landfill.
The purpose of the Recycle My Cell program is to either safely dispose of old cell phones, or refurbish them for resale. If a phone is fixed and sold, all proceeds will be going to local charities and food banks.
2009-04-13:
04:37:21:
It's early in the year, but there are no major plans for commercial development in Quispamsis. As work continues on the Shannex Assisted Living Complex on Millenium Drive, the phone has been pretty quiet other wise. Director of Engineering Gary Losier tells CHSJ News, he believes this is a reflection of what is going on with the economy but they have plenty of lots primed and ready to go.
Losier says any developers that are coming in have certainly scaled back their plans.
2009-04-13:
04:36:32:
Water is still running high in some area's along the St. John River but nothing of major concern. The flood watch for Fredericton and all area's below it has been on for the entire Long Weekend with several roads being flooded out and major chuncks of ice comign ashore causing some serious damage. The snow, which began falling on Saturday hasn't added to any major headaches.
The last report from the Emergency Measures Organization saw the colder temperatures stabalize the water levels. Those living and working along rivers are advised to pay close attention to water level increases and ice movement.
2009-04-12
14:14:10
Save Our Ferries is now floating their message online--- The provincial government has decided to cut the ferry services in Gagetown, Hampstead and Belleisle to save money--- Gagetown resident Lex Gigeroff is opposed to the move and has posted a one minute video on youtube in protest. He tells CHSJ News the most disappointing part of this is it came out of the blue without community consultation or looking into any alternatives--
So far there have been over five hundred views of the short movie clip--- Gigeroff expects he will post more videos between now and the end of the month to draw attention to the protests against closing down the three ferry services. Click here for the direct link to the Save Our Ferries video.
2009-04-12
08:44:23
The Canadian Union of Public Employees says Education Minister Kelly Lamrock wants to chop school library funding by 50 per cent.
CUPE Local 2745 president Sandy Harding says there are 150 library assistants to service 355 schools.
She says CUPE has been lobbying for the past two years to increase funding for school libraries, and now the government is heading in the opposite direction.
CUPE is also saying Lamrock wants to cut school intervention programs, and Harding says there is a one line statement in the provincial budget about the cuts, but no dollar figure available.
2009-04-12
08:43:15
You'll forgive Fundy Royal MP Rob Moore for looking a little red-eyed recently. He and his wife Melinda welcomed their second child into the world on March.20th and Moore tells CHSJ News, everybody is good but sleep has become a luxury:
The new babies name is Katelyn and Moore says with three women now in the house, unlike in the House of Commons, he is out-voted on most things.
2009-04-12
08:41:32
If you've been along Millenium Drive recently, no doubt you've noticed how nicely things are coming along with phase one of the Shannex Assisted Living Complex. The long, cold winter didn't slow anything down and Director of Engineering with the Town of Quispamsis Gary Losier tells CHSJ News, things will move even quicker once the frame-work is done:
Losier says Town Officials are working closely with the construction crews on several fronts including hooking up the water supply line. The first phase of the five unit complex should be finished by this summer.
2009-04-12
08:40:16
There will be 500 additional seats in the community college system next year thanks to the provincial governments $10.2 million dollar budget.
The additional seats will increase capacity at facilities all across the province in areas such as visual arts, office administration, as well as online programs in teacher assistant and early childhood education.
The Saint John campus will receive a total of 74 seats.
2009-04-12
08:29:19
It appears the Easter Bunny has left a big surprise this morning -- the ground is covered in white thanks to a spring snow storm.
Environment Canada has issued a snowfall warning because the system is expected to dump up to ten centimeters before it passes.
Some roads may be slippery or slush covered -- so caution is advised.
2009-04-12
08:08:24
It may be hard to believe with the snow on the ground this morning -- but -- city crews are moving into spring cleaning mode.
Public Works Director Shayne Galbraith tells CHSJ News some street cleaning has been underway in the past week in the city center.
Galbraith says the cleaning effort will pick up steam in the coming week as plows are removed from some of the equipment -- he says the goal is to eventually sweep sidewalks and streets in all areas of the city.
2009-04-12
07:26:05
The latest figures show only nine million of the expected 26-million income tax returns for last year have been filed.
And Roger Haineault of Help for Taxes tells CHSJ News most of those still wrestling with their returns are realizing it's more complicated than first thought -- he says there were a lot of changes last year.
But -- Haineault says a lot of people are getting confused about the recently introduced home renovation credit -- it was part of the federal budget in January and only applies to renovations done this year -- not last year.
The deadline for filing is the end of this month.
2009/04/11
08:10:41
One man is going to be in front of a judge after a hit and run last night.
The 23 year old was driving on Chipman Hill when he struck a tree, and fled on foot with two other passengers.
Police picked him up shortly afterwords and is now facing charges of impaired driving and fleeing the scene of an accident.
2009/04/11
07:48:36
A close call for three teenagers in East Saint John yesterday after becoming lost in the woods.
Just after 5 o'clock one of the teens with a cell phone called a parent about being lost in the woods behind the Glen Falls Trailer Park.
Police began the search around 6 pm, and with the help of the public on ATV's were able to find the teenagers around 2:30 in the morning.
The lost teens were checked over by emergency crews, and were not hurt; just cold and a little shaken up.
2009/04/11
06:20:10
No word on the cause of a structure fire on Golden Grove Road early this morning.
The fire department responded to a call around 2:30 am, and found the building fully engulfed with flames.
The fire was at a single family home, with no injuries.
Crews were on scene for around 3 hours fighting the fire, and the building is being called a total loss.
2009/04/11
06:19:41
District Six is putting a call out for tenders for it's cafeteria contracts and is looking for some advice. Superintendent Zoe Watson says the district has seen a decrease in students purchasing food from cafeterias since the implementation of Policy 711 which ensures healthy food. Watson says the district is unsure about why there is a decrease in sales.
The district is putting a survey up on its website to receive feedback on what can be done to improve cafeterias.
2009/04/11
06:18:17
The MP from Fundy Royal is supporting his parliamentary colleague's fight to keep the Canadian Blood Services Distribution Center in Saint John. Rob Moore tells CHSJ News, Rodney Weston won't let this go with-out some straight answers.
Moore says when you look at the location of the distribution center to the Regional Hospital which houses a trauma and heart center, he would hate to see it go.
2009/04/11
06:16:20
Quispamsis, like every other municipality in the province, is waiting patiently for the warmer weather so they can lay some hot asphalt. A long cold winter has made some roads in the town crack and Director of Engineering Gary Losier tells CHSJ News, along with filling pot-holes, they have plenty of projects on the agenda.
Losier adds some of the area's that took a beating over the winter is nothing they didn't anticipate.
2009/04/11
06:14:34
The Peninsula Princess ferry is back on its summer run as of tomorrow at 8am. The ferry connects Summerville with Millidgeville and will be running on day light hours until ice clears from the river. Then it will begin normal 6:30am until 8:30pm hours.
2009-04-10
12:38:33
The facelift of Long Wharf is one step closer to reality--- the proposed site for Irving's new HQ has captured the federal government's blessing for a land swap between the company and the Port Authority. Chairman of the Port Authority Stephen Campbell tells CHSJ News he's got a smile on his face since hearing the news:
Campbell says they are putting final touches on the lease agreement for the land--- He says the final obstacle ahead is the return of a clean bill of health at the Lantic Sugar site, following that he says things will move very quickly.
2009-04-09
21:34:29
(Cruise ship docked at Long Wharf - photo courtesy Saint John Port Authority)
Irving Oil's proposed 30 million dollar headquarters on Long Wharf is one step closer to reality.
The federal minister of Transport and Infrastructure has given approval for the Saint John Port Authority to lease and develop the wharf.
Saint John MP Rodney Weston tells CHSJ News the land is now open for an agreement to be finalized between the city, the port authority and Irving Oil.
Irving is buying the former Lantic Sugar property from the city for just over a million dollars as part of a land swap with the Port Authority for property at Long Wharf where the company wants to construct a new office and cruise ship complex.
2009-04-09
15:07:38
Mayor Ivan Court is left shaking his head after the release of the first Municipal Performance Report by the Atlantic Institute for Market Studies. Saint John came 82nd place out of 94 municipalities in the province with a "C" grade for efficiency and effectiveness. Court tells CHSJ news he questions how the municipalities were compared.
City staff are analyzing the report and Deputy City Manager Andrew Beckett says they have not been able to figure out how the conclusions were drawn.
2009-04-09
15:06:54
AIMS Executive Vice President, Charles Cirtwell, tells CHSJ News Saint John is spending more to achieve average results for public safety, economic development and city service delivery. He says the city's recent ranking is based on the amount of money spent for city services compared to the rest of the province---while taking into consideration the size of the city.
Cirtwell says the question now is whether the mayor and staff will complain about the report and deny their "C" grade or look at what they can improve on.
2009-04-09
14:58:00
The Saint John Port Authority is holding a contest for high school students to name the new cruise ship terminal. The name will be selected from Districts 6 & 8 students as well as Rothesay-Netherwood School and Samuel de Champlain. Students must submit their suggestions along with a 200 word essay outlining their reasons including geological and historical information.
The winning submission will be announced on June 8th at the Official Cruise Terminal Opening Ceremony.
