2009-05-23
05:27:00
Tourism Saint John says the uncertainty of the future of the Digby Ferry is resulting in canceled tours.
Spokesperson Sean Payne tells CHSJ News, two motor coaches have pulled out of summer tours of the city.
Payne says as an effort to get some more tourists from Digby a day trip schedule is going to start being offered.
He says travelers will come in the morning, and return home later that evening.
2009-05-23
05:26:25
Tannery Court is still playing the waiting game before starting construction.
Spokesperson Mark Higgins tells CHSJ News, they are still waiting to hear back about the environmental assessment, and once it is taken care off a public announcement will be made.
Higgins says the plan for constructing the 50 unit low income apartment building is slated for early summer.
2009-05-22
22:36:54
A major infrastructure announcement is being made this morning in Grand Bay-Westfield -- it involves federal Veterans Affairs Minister Greg Thompson and provincial Energy Minister Jack Keir.
The funding is in the multi-million dollar range and speculation is it will be money for a new sewerage system for the town.
The announcement is being made at the Brundage Point River Center at 9.
2009-05-22
22:15:09
(Premier Graham addressing at Board of Trade Big Splash event - photo by Deborah Stevens)
Premier Shawn Graham says he's confident the province is on the road to self sufficiency -- and -- he says this region's growing energy hub is playing a significant role.
Graham says it means more opportunities for the people of not only greater Saint John -- but -- the province.
Graham was speaking to the Board of Trade's annual Big Splash event tonight at the new cruise terminal on Water Street.
(Part of the crowd at Big Splash in the new Water Street cruise terminal - photo by Deborah Stevens)
2009-05-22
17:49:30
Mayor Ivan Court says the city will need to find new residential areas to build upon as the industrial sector out East continues to expand. Court says eventually more and more city residents will be displaced and he wants to ensure they remain in Saint John.
Court says they aren't just planning for the next 3 or four years--city staff are planning for the next 50 years. He says now is the time to begin searching out provincially and municipally owned lands that can developed.
2009-05-22
17:48:08
The province is getting $43 million dollars in federal funding for employment and training programs. The agreement between the two governments was signed today and is in addition to the $207 million that will be provided to the province over the next two years under existing agreements.
The funds will go toward increasing workplace literacy, and developing employment action plans. $14 million dollars over two years will help support provincial initiatives that help workers, whether or not they are eligible for employment insurance---and create programs to help retain jobs or make the transition to new ones.
2009-05-22
17:47:08
A new part of the Digby Ferry schedule is expecting to bring more tourists into the city.
Tourism Saint John spokesperson Sean Payne tells CHSJ News, a new day trip service will be introduced.
Payne says adding new services will benefit the city, because more services means more money being spent. Payne says due to the uncertainty of the service, two motor coach clients have dropped out.
2009-05-22
17:46:26
Tannery Court is still playing the waiting game before starting construction. Spokesperson Mark Higgins tells CHSJ News, they are still waiting to hear back about the environmental assessment, and once it is taken care off a public announcement will be made.
Higgins says the plan for constructing the 50 unit low income apartment building is slated for early summer.
2009-05-22
15:18:38
Grand Manan RCMP are looking for the publics help in finding a missing man.
52 year old Ritchie Wilson left Grand Manan in his Nissan X-Terra at the beginning of the month and has not been heard from since.
Wilson did not tell his family where he was going, but made preparations at home that were consistent with leaving for a trip.
He is described as 6 feet tall, 275 pounds with light brown hair.
Anyone with any information on his whereabouts is asked to call 755-1130.
2009-05-22
15:01:39
Mayor Ivan Court is still advocating for tri-level emergency response. During his State of the City address today, Court said city fire fighters had to respond to 22 emergencies in one weekend earlier this year because an ambulance wasn't available. Court says funding is key to ensuring the Saint John Fire Department can continue responding to emergencies in situations such as that.
Court says there is a shortage of about 100 paramedics in the province and while Medavie-Blue Cross, which took over ambulance service late 2007, is doing it's best, Saint John and Mirimachi are not getting adequate service.
2009-05-22
14:59:06
The city will continue work on water system improvements--with or without federal and provincial help. But Mayor Ivan Court says he hopes to hear they will be giving Saint John funding by the end of the year. The city is re-submitted a formal request for federal funding for six water-related projects. Mayor Ivan Court says the items will be sent individually to MP Rodney Weston.
The city is planning to build one or two water treatment plants at a cost of up to 214 million dollars. Court says they are already doing work to upgrade the necessary pipes and water mains. Earlier this month Court had said millions of dollars are on the way from the federal and provincial governments for water related projects. He says length of time to complete the project will depend on whether they do contribute funding.
2009-05-22
14:26:53
Many General Motors dealerships in the country are closing the doors, but another provincial dealer has avoided the axe.
Charlotte County GM in St. Stephen is keeping its doors open, just after GM announced over 200 dealers will be closing up shop across the country.
In the city, Brett's Chevrolet-Cadillac also avoided cut, as did Centennial-Pontiac.
2009-05-22
12:30:29
(Murphy and Blaney lock horns in Legislature - file photos)
The Conservative opposition is questioning the Graham government's motives in dealing with negotiations for doctors' fees.
Rothesay M-L-A Margaret Ann Blaney says she understands a tentative agreement has been in place but the government has been dragging its feet -- and -- may be on the verge of scrapping it altogether.
Health Minister Mike Murphy says no deal is in place and negotiations are continuing -- meantime -- the Conservatives are also hammering the Graham Liberals over pending cuts to various education programs -- both Districts 6 and 8 say programs will be slashed thanks to a cut in their 2009 - 2010 budgets.
2009-05-22:
10:54:33:
RCMP are letting residents know about a scam that has surfaced and seems to show up with the good weather every year. A paving contractor or company, operating in the Charlotte County area is targeting seniors and they may not be licensed.
Officers ask that anyone who is approached about someone paving your driveway to give them a call at 466-7030 or 755-1130.
2009-05-22:
10:53:17:
Make sure you congratulate Edith Rose Cairns of Saint John, Brian Beaudette of Ontario, Keely Wallace of Truro and Katie RoeBothan of Newfoundland when you see them. They will be working on their speeches in the coming days after being named valedictorians of their respective classes at UNB Saint John and UNB.
Cairns will deliver her speech next Friday here in Saint John while Beaudette, Wallace and RoeBothan will speak to their classmates in Fredericton on Wednesday and Thursday. Premier Shawn Graham will also be on hand for the ceremony in Fredericton on Wednesday when he receives an honary degree that some of the faculty have protested against.
2009-05-22:
10:52:29:
A date with a judge is on the schedule for a 40-year old man from Montreal today. This after RCMP arrested a man at a bank on Broad Street in Sussex yesterday. Officer's tell us a man was trying to obtain a credit card by using a false name.
When he realized it wasn't going to work he made a run for it but was caught a short time after. No word on specific charges.
2009-05-22:
10:51:34:
First, it was Fundy Royal MP Rob Moore and now the New Brunswick All Terrain Vehicle Federation is speaking out. Both are concerned about any possible expansion of Fundy National Park and the Federation says if the talks move ahead, they want to be involved.
Federation President Daniel Boucher says they agree with the importance of National Parks and Protected Areas, but feels it must also be recognized that people in this Province need access to land for outdoor activities.
2009-05-22:
10:50:30:
Politicians from all levels are expected to be in Grand Bay-Westfield tomorrow. A news conference has been scheduled by the Premier's office to speak about what they are describing as a significant announcement.
We called Mayor Grace Losier to see if she had anything to say about what might be headed their way and she will only echo what the Premier's office has told us..........the announcement is significant. Things get started at nine at the River Center.
2009-05-22:
10:49:22:
No word yet on when City Police will get a chance to speak with a 26-year old Mandarin man who was shot during a robbery at an uptown bar last weekend. A bullet grazed his skull and he remains at the Regional under-going treatment.
It happened at the Sunstar Lounge just after 1:30 in the morning last Sunday morning. No arrests have been made.
2009-05-22:
10:48:05:
A 30-year old west side man has been sent for a further psychiatric evaluation in Restigouche. Jeremy O'Hearn has been charged with various weapons offenses -- possession of stolen property -- and -- assaulting a police officer following a stand-off on the west-side on Tuesday of last week. He just underwent a five day psychiatric examination while awaiting his next court appearance.
O'Hearn was arrested after police were held at bay for over four hours by a man inside a Fundy Drive home -- it started when police tried to serve a warrant.
2009-05-22
10:36:15
Work is well underway on a new section of highway 7 which will bypass the Welsford area.
Most of the clearing work has been completed and the Transportation Department is getting ready to call tenders for grading work and two bridges.
Meantime -- grading work for the Highland Road overpass access ramps is expected to begin next month.
And some repaving work is also underway on sections of highway 7 through the Base Gagetown training area.
2009-05-22:
04:31:37:
The new cruise terminal will provide the back-drop for the 4th annual Big Splash event tonight. Things get started at 6:30pm with Premier Graham the guest speaker. Hosted by the Board of Trade, President Imelda Gilman tells CHSJ News, this is a great chance to celebrate the communities achievements in the past year.
Other speakers include developer John Rocca and chair of the Saint John Port Authority Stephen Campbell.
2009-05-22:
04:30:44:
No word on specific charges but two men are due in court today. This after a routine traffic stop by City Police last night on Winslow Street West uncovered a gun in the vehicle.
Also, officer's are investigating a report of a man being robbed in the uptown. He was standing at the bus stop near King Square just before 7:30pm when he was approached by two or three men. He was hit and they grabbed some of stuff and made a run for it. He wasn't seriously injured.
2009-05-22:
04:29:47:
The normal quiet of a neighborhood in Rothesay was shattered last night after an armed robbery. Rothesay Regional Police tell us a man with a weapon walked into the Petro-Canada station just before closing at eleven o'clock.
He demanded cash from the clerk, grabbed a handful and made a run into the darkness. No one was hurt.
2009-05-21
23:15:50
.jpg "jackson 1(1).jpg")
(Jackson with his latest painting of President Obama - file photo)
He says it was interesting -- but -- stressful -- local artist Norm Jackson has just finished taping an episode of the CBC Tv business show "Dragon's Den."
Jackson is bound by agreement not to reveal whether he was successful in convincing the money people to back his marketing plan for his paintings of moments in history -- but -- he tells CHSJ News the panel didn't go easy on him.
The episode will air some time in the fall.
2009-05-21
17:46:45
The Healthy Eating and Physical Activity Committee will be working closely with other health organizations over the next four years with the release of the province's new Wellness Strategy. Live well, be well, New Brunswick's Wellness Strategy 2009-2013, focuses on improving mental fitness and resilience, increasing physical activity, healthy eating, and living tobacco-free. Committee Co-Chair Betty Hoyt tells CHSJ news there is a lot of work to do in this province.
The Wellness Strategy addresses 29 of the 49 recommendations in a final report by the Select Committee on Wellness. Hoyt says in the long-term it will be important to have continued funding to ensure programs that work don't get cut.
2009-05-21
14:20:43
Mark MacDonald with Bay Ferries says the Digby ferry saw a slight decline in private vehicle traffic last fiscal year, but an increase in commercial.
MacDonald says when the company took over operating the service they wanted it to be privately funded.
MacDonald says they would rather not be going to the taxpayers for money, but at the moment it's hard to see no government assistance needed to continue operations.
2009-05-21
14:20:04
The Digby Ferry will be running until January 2011, and already the Mayor is lobbying to have the service extended.
Ivan Court says private and commercial passengers want to be assured the ferry will continue running.
Court says passengers on the ferry generate about 5 million dollars a year for the city, and as long as he is mayor he will continue to fight to keep the service afloat.
2009-05-21
12:54:40
(Anti-Seal Demonstration in Uptown Saint John--Photo By Diane Henry)
A small handful of PETA members and supporters turned out for a noon-hour anti-sealing campaign near Market Square. Some people held signs saying "stop the bloody seal slaughter", while a two others lay on the sidewalks dressed as seals covered in fake blood. Spokesperson Colleen Higgins tells CHSJ news the seal hunt may not go on near Saint John, but that doesn't means it's not a New Brunswick issue. She says the entire Canadian economy and reputation will benefit from the end of the East Coast seal hunt.
Saint John resident Drenna Duplessie used her lunch break to join the demonstration. She says she wanted to support the cause.
The animal rights group plans to continue their demonstrations across Canada until the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.
2009-05-21:
12:19:43:
Ottawa and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency have teamed up to provide Key Industries with a $300,000 dollar investment. The announcement was made today by Saint John MP Rodney Weston to thunderous applause from clients and staff. Christine Evans is the President and CEO and tells CHSJ News, when she started with this group, she never envisioned it would get this big.
Some of the money will be spent on further renovations to the building including a new gymnasium, showers, wellness program and completing work to the kitchen area.
2009-05-21:
12:18:54:
Barry Adams, an insurance salesperson and former mutual fund salesperson in Saint John has been banned from selling securities for 10 years and ordered to pay $20,000 in penalties for failing to comply with New Brunswick securities regulations. Adams was retained by Estate Financial Inc, to sell securities offered through Walton International Group Inc to accredited investors under an exemption in New Brunswick securities law.
Eight of the 11 investors who purchased Walton securities after being referred by Adams were not accredited investors, a fact that Adams knew or should have at the time. Adams also made misrepresentations to NBSC staff during the investigation.
2009-05-21
11:13:33
Several politicians who represent the Kennebecasis Valley are on the same page -- Quispamsis and Rothesay should get together for construction of the Q-Plex.
Rothesay Mayor Bill Bishop how-ever isn't of the same belief telling CHSJ News how quick the other politicians forget Quispam turned its back on an opportunity to twin the K-V Arena a year or so ago.
Bishop adds they won't be making any recreation decision until their Master Plan is complete and a draft should be in their hands with-in two weeks.
2009-05-21
10:49:05
(Health Minister Mike Murphy - file photo)
Health Minister Mike Murphy says he will be speaking with his federal counterpart tonight about the looming shortage of radioactive isotopes for medical use.
Atomic Energy of Canada announced Monday night its Chalk River reactor which produces the isotopes used for medical imaging was out of service after a leak of heavy water was detected -- it's expected to be off line for about a month.
Murphy was caught off guard Tuesday when questioned by reporters about the situation -- we asked again today and he tells us he will have more to say tomorrow after his conversation with the federal minister this evening.
2009-05-21:
04:57:27:
The St Stephen area is celebrating a successful fundraising effort for the new Charlotte County Civic Center. The fundraising committee has hit its 3.5-million dollar goal prompting the federal and provincial governments to kick in just over 12-million -- but -- fundraising co-chair Peter Heelis says they weren't in competition for government funds with other communities like Quispamsis.
Site preparation work for the 18-million dollar complex is expected to begin later this summer with completion set for 2011 -- meantime -- Quispamsis is going over its Q-Plex proposal trying to trim costs after the lowest tender came about 2.5-million over the 18.5-million dollar budget.
2009-05-21:
04:56:03:
The draft environment impact statement for the Downeast LNG terminal project will comprehensively be reviewed and assessed by the Provincial Government. The paper-work was issued last Friday by the United States Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The province has also announced they will take appropriate action as a formal intervener in the FERC proceeding. In a statement, Premier Graham says the release of this paperwork does not come as a surprise and as an intervenor, the Province was aware this step was imminent for the Downeast LNG project.
Graham adds safety, security, environmental and economic impacts of these facilities for people who live along Passamaquoddy Bay will not be dismissed.
2009-05-21:
04:54:44:
In some area's of the Province today, it is going to feel like the middle of August. Environment Canada is reporting the outlying area's of Saint John could hit the low 30's before the day is done. That means the u.v. index will be in the high to very high range and sunscreen is a must if you are going to be outside for any prolonged time.
Doctors also advise you have plenty of water on hand to keep from getting de-hydrated. Also, if you are working outside to not over do it and take plenty of breaks.
2009-05-21:
04:53:43:
As the price of crude continues to climb on the open markets, so in turn does the price here at home. The Energy and Utilities Board has released it's weekly price schedule which shows a litre of self-serve unleaded going for a maximum price of 94.9. That is up just under two cents from last week. Most stations are selling a litre for 95.1 cents.
The price of diesel is actually down to an even 87 cents which is a drop of just over penny. Furnace Oil comes in 69.8 which is down almost a penny as well. Propane is up percentage points at 82.08.
2009-05-20
23:45:19
They're claiming a first in the border town of St Stephen -- the committee raising funds for the new Charlotte County Civic Center says it believes this is the first time a community of the size of St Stephen has raised 3.5-million dollars for a civic project.
That prompted the federal and provincial governments to kick in just over 12-million -- but -- fundraising co-chair Peter Heelis says they weren't in competition for government funds with other communities like Quispamsis.
He says his group was out of the gate early with the community support in pocket -- something required before government funding kicks in.
St Stephen town council has also committed just over two million dollars for the project.
Site preparation work for the 18-million dollar complex is expected to begin later this summer with completion set for 2011 -- meantime -- Quispamsis is going over its Q-Plex proposal trying to trim costs after the lowest tender came about 2.5-million over the 18.5-million dollar budget.
2009-05-20
18:37:54
Some good news for the Brett-Chevrolet-Cadillac dealership on Rothesay Avenue. Owner, Ian Brett tells CHSJ news they have avoided G-M's hit list and are in good shape for years to come. General Motors has delivered termination notices to about two-fifths of its Canadian dealers, effective when current agreements expire in October, 2010.
Brett says he's not sure what the future will hold for the company but business will continue as usual thanks to their Chevrolet and Cadillac brands, which remain strong.
2009-05-20
16:51:39
Saint John's Centennial-Pontiac Dealership has avoided the chopping block. About 40 per cent of G-M Canada's dealerships have been notified today they will be closing. General Manager of Centennial Pontiac, Dwight Daye tells CHSJ news he is relieved to learn they will be remaining open on Rothesay Avenue. The next step is preparing for the phase-out of the Pontiac line.
Daye says the G5 is their best selling car and they are hoping to get something in the Buick line that is similarly priced.
2009-05-20
16:22:04
The Canadian Coast Guard has called off patrols along Saint John's coast line after what they assume was a hoax or false alarm. Around 3pm this afternoon someone from Canaport LNG reported hearing a mayday call from a small boat off of Bayshore Beach. Fire crews responded to the call, along with the Coast guard, but no boats were located.
The District Fire Chief tells CHSJ news they mayday call was likely a hoax.
2009-05-20
15:49:20
The Canadian Coast Guard is patrolling Saint John's coast line after someone from Canaport LNG reported hearing a mayday call from a small boat off of Bayshore Beach. Fire crews responded to the call, along with the Coast guard, but no boats have been located.
Patrols continue along beaches on the West Side but the District Fire Chief tells CHSJ news it's possible the mayday call was a hoax.
2009-05-20
15:12:06
Members of the animal rights group PETA will be holding an anti-sealing demonstration in uptown Saint John tomorrow. Demonstrators will be holding signs and showing footage of Canada's annual seal hunt at an intersection near Market Square over the noon-hour. Spokesperson, Colleen Higgins tells CHSJ news, hundreds of thousands of harp seals are slaughtered on the ice floes off Newfoundland and Labrador every year.
PETA's anti-sealing campaign will continue across Canada until the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver.
2009-05-20
15:11:16
The Graham government is proposing changes to the Education Act that would involve adding a student representative to the District Education Councils. Education Minister Kelly Lamrock introduced the proposal today in the legislature as part of a series of initiatives to overhaul how youth are engaged in government decisions that affect them. A process for selecting student DEC members is currently being developed.
Other initiatives include replacing the New Brunswick Advisory Council on Youth with a more modern approach--and--establishing an online youth forum where young New Brunswickers can post submissions and respond to government proposals.
2009-05-20
15:09:38
Young Canadians from across the country are gathering in Saint John over the next five days for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada’s National Youth Conference. This is the first time the conference has been held in Atlantic Canada and is being hosted by the local Boys and Girls Club at UNB Saint John.
The conference will explore a range of important issues for youth today, including healthy living, bullying, environmental responsibility, and social activism. There will also be a keynote address on Friday by a twenty-year-old former child soldier who fled his home country of the Democratic Republic of Congo at age eleven and is now a Canadian.
2009-05-20:
10:48:12:
New rules that come into effect June.1st for drivers under the age of 21 is facing some opposition. Melissa O'Rourke of Quispamsis fronts a facebook group which has collected over six thousand signatures in this half of the Province who are upset. She tells CHSJ News, they don't disagree with all of them but a lack of consultation certainly didn't help the matter.
O'Rourke says province-wide, they have collected over ten thousand signatures and have several rallies, including one in Kings Square, planned for next Monday.
2009-05-20:
10:47:20:
A new look continues to take shape along Churchill Boulevard. Most of the housing development at the far end near Samuel Davis Drive is gone and plans continue to be discussed on what the new houses will look like. Saint John Portland Conservative MLA Trevor Holder tells CHSJ News, with a blue-print now on the board, construction could get started as earlier as this fall.
Holder says alot of the people who were re-located until the project is complete will have the option to come back if they choose.
2009-05-20:
10:46:29:
Those suffering from colerectal cancer and trying to get the Provincial Liberals to pay for the drug Avastin have a voice taking up their cause. Rothesay Conservative MLA Margaret Ann Blaney is standing behind them to try and get the Province to put up three million dollars to cover the cost of the drug. Blaney tells CHSJ News, the priority list for Premier Graham and his party appears to be mis-guided.
The cost of the drug is close to $70,000 dollars a year and this Province is one of two left in the country that won't cover the cost of Avastin.
2009-05-20:
10:45:20:
Ottawa won't be bringing any more cash to the table for the Town of Quispamsis. This as officials look for avenues to make up for a $2.7 million dollar short-fall in funding for the Q-Plex. Fundy Royal MP Rob Moore tells CHSJ News, this project is a winner and is sure it will get finished on time and budget.
Questions about who gets how much were raised after Ottawa gave St. Stephen six million for it's civic center last week. Moore says the needs for each municipality are different and is satisfied both are getting the financial help to make their projects a success.
2009-05-20:
03:46:03:
A few tense moments along Bayshore Beach last night. The Fire Department's Water Rescue Unit was called to the area on reports of two people being in the water. When they arrived, they found two para-sailer's, one had already reached the shore and the second making his way there.
They offered medical attention to both but they declined.
2009-05-19
21:18:06
The tender may be over budget by 2.7 million dollars but the Mayor of Quispmasis says with all the green aspects of the Q-Plex everyone will be happy in the long run.
Murray Driscoll says of all the bids they received they were all in the same ballpark, so the price tag is what it is.
Driscoll says the offer still stands towards the town of Rothesay if they want to enter a partnership.
Rothesay is currently awaiting the draft report of their Master Recreation Plan.
2009-05-19
20:43:59
Work on the Shannex Complex in Quispamsis continues, and people are expected to be living in the Retirement section by the end of the year.
Spokesperson Mike Bishop says it's an important complex for the area because it contains a place for those who are retired, and those who need assisted living, or nursing services.
The 3 buildings will contain 201 units, and will employ over 100 people.
Bishop says construction is on schedule---and if everything works out retirees will be moving in by December, with the Nursing building slated for January, and the Assisted Living building to follow next summer.
2009-05-19
17:09:33
A woman charged with stealing 19 hundred dollars from the Sussex Corner Elementary School hot lunch program has been acquitted. Catherine Armstrong of Jeffries Corner was treasurer of the Home and School Association from September 2006 until June 2007 when she resigned after being accused of taking nearly two thousand dollars.
The judge determined there was not enough evidence to convict the volunteer for stealing money raised by parents for the home and school program.
2009-05-19
16:13:59
The provincial government has unveiled an enhanced four-year wellness strategy addressing 29 of the 49 recommendations in a final report by the Select Committee on Wellness. Live well, be well, New Brunswick's Wellness Strategy 2009-2013, builds on the previous strategy of improving mental fitness and resilience, increasing physical activity, healthy eating, and living tobacco-free.
An Inter-departmental Deputy Ministers' Committee on Wellness will also be established. Statistics show 34 per cent of children and youth in this province are over weight or obese, well above the Canadian average of 26 per cent.
2009-05-19
16:08:41
(American Legion Rep Richard Pelletier - photo by Kim Hall)
And the Canadians are getting support from American veterans -- Richard Pelletier Jr marched with the group to Thompson's office.
Pelletier tells CHSJ News American vets who trained at Base Gagetown while the spraying was conducted are being ignored by Washington as well.
Pelletier says he will muster more support for the Canadians if they are forced to march on Parliament -- he says it's a crime shared by both the American and Canadian governments.
2009-05-19
16:02:00
(Gary Good delivers letter to aide for Veterans Affairs Minister Greg Thompson - photo by Gary MacDonald)
Veterans Affairs Minister Greg Thompson is on the way home from Afghanistan -- but -- a group of military vets and civilians weren't deterred and marched on his St Stephen office demanding a full public and judicial inquiry into the spraying of Agent Orange at Base Gagetown in the 50's and 60's.
Gary Good from British Columbia is one of the organizers -- he served at Base Gagetown in the 60's -- and -- he tells CHSJ News the vets have even been abandoned by the Royal Canadian Legion.
The group says if a public inquiry isn't called by June 15th -- they will march on Parliament Hill.
2009-05-19
15:10:21
Fundy Royal MP Rob Moore says he is firmly opposed to any plans to expand Fundy National Park. Moore is responding to recent discussions to take over land currently owned by the province. Moore says the idea of expanding the park has not come from New Brunswickers and he will not support it.
Crown land can be used for a wide range of activities such as camping, fishing, hunting, and the use of ATV's without fees. Those activities are strictly regulated or banned within Fundy National Park--and--Moore says residents in his riding wish to enjoy the outdoors outside of a park environment.
2009-05-19
11:58:23
The Executive Director of AIDS Saint John says Saint John will immediately notice a difference with a methadone clinic uptown.
Julie Dingwell says the money a drug addict needs to fuel their habit is what directs them towards criminal activity---she says an addict needs nearly $45 thousand dollars in cash a year to pay for their drug.
Dingwell says the uptown location is more convenient, because it was hard for people to get to the Ridgewood Treatment Centre in South Bay.
She says treatment, and counselling is the best way to fight drug addiction.
2009-05-19
11:37:41
Police Chief Bill Reid says gun violence is on the rise in the city.
Reid says when officers enter a drug house, they now expect to find guns on the other side of the door.
Reid says the increase of incidents involving guns in the city is alarming.
The concern has been heightened after a 26 year old Mandarin man was shot in the head at the SunStar Lounge on Saturday around 1:30 in the morning.
No word on his condition, and the major crime unit is investigating.
2009-05-19
11:11:08
[Minister Murphy Making Announcement--------Photo by Dave Briggs]
Those struggling with drug addictions in the city will have a new uptown spot to go for methadone.
Health Minister Mike Murphy says the improved access to methadone will allow those who need treatment to get it faster.
Murphy says the four doctors working 57 hours a month at Ridgewood have had their hours increased to 66 ---which will allow more methadone to be prescribed.
The Department of Health will be funding a nurse practitioner and providing office space for a clinic at the Mercantile Centre on Union Street.
2009-05-19:
04:11:34:
Murray Driscoll isn't ready to close the door on more funding for the Q-Plex. This after the provincial and federal governments each invested 6.2 million dollars into a new civic centre in St. Stephen. The Mayor of Quispamsis tells CHSJ News, he hasn't received any official word that there is no more money to spend and is going to make an approach. The much anticipated complex has already received 3.3 million in federal funding, as well as a 2.3 million dollar low interest loan from the feds. The province has kicked in 3 million dollars towards the facility.
The original design for the Q-Plex has come up $2.7 million dollars short and the Town has sent back the blue-prints to see what adjustments can be made to bring it with-in budget.
2009-05-19:
04:10:25:
A news conference has been called for ten at the Imperial Theater this morning. Saint John MP Rodney Weston is speaking on behalf of the Honorable James Moore who is the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages. This would indicate Federal funding is on the way for the theaters Keep It Live campaign.
Over the weekend, Canaport LNG donated $100 thousand dollars towards the continued efforts to restore and preserve the theatre.
2009-05-19:
04:09:00:
The provincial government is making an announcement today concerning improved methadone treatment in the city. Health Minister Mike Murphy and Supply and Services Minister Ed Doherty will be on hand. City Police Chief Bill Reid has been campaigning for more addiction services in the city and says the majority of crime committed in the city is due to drug addiction.
The announcement gets underway at ten at the Mercantile Centre.
2009-05-18
06:12:35
Just before 9 o'clock last night police and fire crews responded to a fire in the Coronation Park area.
The fire was in the basement of a townhouse, and police suspect is was smoldering for hours before being noticed.
At first the fire appeared to be suspicious, but an investigation by Major Crimes proved it to be accidental.
There will be no charges laid, and there were no injuries.
2009-05-18
06:09:55
Someone wanted more than a sandwich when they went into the Fairville Boulevard Subway Restaurant last night.
Just after 7:30 a man went into the restaurant with a weapon and demanded cash from the register.
The robber got away with an undisclosed amount of cash, and there were no injuries in the incident.
The Major Crimes unit is currently investigating the robbery.
2009-05-18
05:23:13
The process to build some new homes on the Riverside Golf Course is on hold for the time being. A public presentation was slated for the 27th to discuss an application to build single family homes to the left and right of the main driveway just North-West of the club house. Mayor Bill Bishop tells CHSJ News, the membership and executive of the golf course still have some decisions to make on this matter.
Bishop says there are two points of view in the club-house......those who like the idea and those who don't. The golf course and piece of land is currently zoned recreation and would need to be re-designed as moderate density and re-zoned R3.
2009-05-18
05:21:37
No doubt you have noticed the price for crude has been creeping up in recent weeks and that means gasoline prices have been as well. It wasn't that long ago we were paying close to $1.40 for a litre of self-serve and the question many have is, will it return or go even higher. Energy Minister Jack Keir tells CHSJ News, he doesn't have a crystal ball but it's a sign of the economy.
Keir says he understands nobody wants to pay close to a dollar and a half for a litre of gasoline but cheap gas and a booming economy will never happen again.
2009-05-18
05:20:26
(Sunwing and Jazz jets at Saint John airport - file photo)
Some significant progress is being made in the battle to have Saint Johners fly out of the local airport -- airport president Bernie LeBlanc says shrinkage to other airports has been reduced by 50-percent over the past two years.
And LeBlanc tells CHSJ News it's no easy task with 5-airports within a four hour drive of the city:
LeBlanc says the latest stats show 65-percent of the passengers through our airport are travelling to Canadian destinations -- 25-percent are headed state side -- and -- ten percent are travelling to international destinations.
2009-05-18
05:19:36
.jpg "seawolves-d (2).jpg")
[UNBSJ Seawolves Uniform----photo courtesy of Barry Ogden]
The opportunity for those over 18 to play football in the city is coming this fall.
The Atlantic Football League and the UNBSJ Seawolves are looking to kick start it's season in September, and organizer Barry Ogden tells CHSJ News, there isn't much for organized sports for adults besides the hockey beer leagues in the city.
Ogden says protective gear will be supplied for potential players, and the interest being shown by the community is very high.
Ogden says the AFL has had no problems getting sponsors for teams, and will initially be three teams, but there is potential for growth.
2009-05-17
09:16:05
The Imperial Theatre is getting a shot to the arm thanks to the largest single contribution to it's Keep It Live fundraising campaign.
Canaport LNG donated $100 thousand dollars towards the continued efforts to restore and preserve the theatre.
The money will also go towards the replacement of the stage house cladding, which leaked and caused damage inside the theatre.
2009-05-17
08:56:15
Traffic Patterns in Greater Saint John are up with the Long Weekend in full swing. Trailers can be seen hanging off the back of vehicles and alot of people are getting out to shake off the dust of a long winter. Sargeant Evan Scott is head of the Traffic Division with Rothesay Regional Police and tells CHSJ News, last year was the first they saw a drop in the numbers of drunk drivers pulled over.
Scott says patrols will also be out looking for speeders, those not wearing their seatlbelt and expired vehicle registrations.
2009-05-17
08:55:23
Town officials in Rothesay are making plans for possible renovation work at their arena as they wait for a draft report of their Master Recreation Plan. Saint John MP Rodney Weston has provided them with several options to apply for funding. Mayor Bill Bishop tells CHSJ News, the building is in good shape despite plenty of use and being over the twenty year mark.
A draft report of the plan should be in the Town's hands from ADI Architecture by the third week of next month.
2009-05-17
08:54:29
New legislation planning to modernize criminal procedure law is getting support from Fundy Royal MP Rob Moore.
Moore, who is also the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice says the proposed amendments to the legislation will allow police and prosecutors tools to do their jobs more efficiently and effectively.
Changes include creating an offence that prevents people from fleeing to avoid prosectution, improving the application procedure for search and seizure warrants, and allowing fingerprinting and photos to be taken of someone in custody, who hasn't been charged or convicted of a crime.
Moore says these changes will improve Canada's Justice System.
2009-05-16
06:42:26
A busy start to the long weekend for city police after an attempted armed robbery sent one person to the hospital.
Around 1:30 this morning police responded to a call at the Sunstar Lounge on Germain Street, and one person was taken to the hospital with gun shot wounds.
The Major Crimes Unit is investigating the incident---with no arrests made yet----but there are two suspects in mind.
2009-05-16
05:21:24
Among the laundry list of items that Minister Keir touched on during an energy conference earlier this week in Saint John, completion of the Trans Canada pipeline was one of them. Keir tells CHSJ News, this project is similar to other's that have spanned this country from coast to coast.
Keir says both Ottawa and the private sector are being urged to get involved with this project. The pipeline starts in BC and only runs to Quebec City.
2009-05-16
05:20:36
The camping season for many gets started over the next three days. This Victoria Day weekend is un-officially the days on the calendar that many head to their second home, throw open the windows and get set for more fun and relaxation away from the regular grind. Along with the fun, Grand Bay-Westfield Fire Chief Dan McCoy says safety should be a top priority. He tells CHSJ News, all of the wiring should be give a good inspection.
McCoy adds just like your smoke alarms at home, the ones in the camp should be cleaned with a vacuum and don't forget about the fresh battery.
2009-05-16
05:20:05
The KV Chamber of Commerce is looking for your help next weekend. On Saturday the 23rd, they will hold the one item food drive. The goal is to get a non-perishable food item from each home to replenish the supply at the KV Food Basket. Chamber member Rick Demoan tells CHSJ News, officials from both Rothesay and Quispamsis will be helping out.
Along with 50 volunteers, the Chanber is also looking for vehicles to use to pick up the food and get it to the food basket. The number to call if you can help out is 849-2860.
2009-05-16
05:18:03
[Scene of the Fire----Photo by Gary MacDonald]
Fire investigators are working to determine the cause of a major blaze which broke out in a Rothesay Avenue business complex over the supper hour last night.
Fire chief Rob Simonds says the blaze was a stubborn one because it was burning between two steel roof structures:
No one was hurt -- but -- the building near McAllister Drive has been left a burned out shell -- meantime -- fire investigators are working to determine what sparked the blaze.
2009-05-15
21:23:14
(Ladder Tower unit pours water on stubborn blaze off Rothesay Avenue - photo by Gary MacDonald)
Fire crews continue to hose down a business complex off Rothesay Avenue near McAllister Drive.
They've been on the scene since just after 5:30 this afternoon -- and -- Fire Chief Rob Simonds says the biggest challenge has been trying to get at the flames burning between a steel roof and sub-roof supported by wooden trusses.
Simonds says the combination has resulted in a fire burning with intense heat.
No one has been hurt and fire investigators are on the scene doing some preliminary work.
2009-05-15
17:46:20
Fire crews are battling a major blaze behind A to Z Rentals on Rothesay Avenue. City Police are asking drivers to avoid Rothesay avenue until the flames are brought down. The road is currently closed to traffic between McAllister Drive and Retail Drive.
Officials are also delaying a train scheduled to come through the area as a precaution.
Earlier today fire crews were on the scene of a grease fire at Deluxe French Fries on Wellesley Avenue. Firefighters made quick work of the flames and no major damage reported.
2009-05-15
16:39:08
Stockholm Sweden has been named the most intelligent city by a New York think-tank--beating out Fredericton and Moncton. The two provincial cities were among seven finalists for the smartest city. Premier Shawn Graham says he's proud of our success, non-the-less.
Graham is on a trade mission in New York, where he says he's learning a lot about the energy market there. The Premier says he's confident meetings with companies in the Big Apple will bring about positive returns for the province--and--says many businesses are planning to visit the province to scope out the energy projects.
2009-05-15
15:26:33
Details are still sketchy surrounding a home invasion this morning in New Zion-- near ripples. RCMP Sergeant Claude Tremblay tells CHSJ News four or five men entered a home there around nine o'clock and then left in an SUV a few minutes later. He says nothing was stolen and the two people living there were not injured.
So far, no arrests have been made, but Tremblay says they were surveying the area.
2009-05-15
12:59:15
.jpg "news-court(1).jpg")
(Mayor Ivan Court - file photo)
There are three companies now on the short list to build the Peel Plaza police and parking garage complex.
Integrated Team Solutions - Ashford Investments - and - AeroTerm Management will now come back with solid proposals for construction -- and -- mayor Ivan Court tells CHSJ News the project is on a tight time line.
Court says the province plans to break ground for the new Justice Complex in September -- and -- work on the new parking garage will have to coincide with the province since it will be leasing over 100-parking spaces.
He says the final construction proposal could be in the form of a public - private partnership.
Meantime -- the city will hold an open house June 3rd to give the public a chance to see the latest plans for the Peel Plaza area.
2009-05-15
12:58:21
The Saint John Police Service has two new senior officers -- Darrell Scribner has been sworn in as the new Deputy Police Chief while Bruce Connell has been promoted to the rank of Inspector.
Scribner and Connell were sworn in this morning during a ceremony held in a packed council chamber at city hall.
Three former police chiefs - Al Bodechon - Butch Cogswell - and - Charlie Breen attended the ceremony.
2009-05-15:
11:30:29:
Business Minister Greg Byrne is on the road to recovery. This after undergoing major heart surgery last week at the Regional. His office tells us he is home resting and in good spirits. No word on when he expects to be back to work. In his absence, Energy Minister Jack Keir will take over Business portfolio along with the Population Growth Secretariat, Service New Brunswick and Communications.
Education Minister Kelly Lamrock will take over his duties about the Erin Walsh case file for the Office of the Attorney General.
2009-05-15:
11:29:37:
After bringing in over $246 million last year, Tourism Saint John is hoping to better that as they gear up for another tourist season. Staff are stocking the three visitor centers as this long weekend gets their busy time of the year underway. Spokes-person Lori Jensen tells CHSJ News, they are keeping an eye on rising gas prices but are not losing sleep over them.
Jensen says they expect to be busy in the coming months and hope for a steady stream of sunshine to go along with it.
2009-05-15:
11:28:21:
Another huge find for RCMP in their fight against illegal goods coming through the Province. Officers stopped a passenger van traveling east near Saint Basile last night and found 300,000 contraband smokes and other tobacco products. The driver was arrested and is due back in court next month to face several charges.
It's believed the cigarettes were destined for Saint John.
2009-05-15:
11:27:35:
There was a home invasion this morning in New Zion which is near ripples. RCMP Sargeant Claude Tremblay it took place just after nine o'clock and no one was hurt.
No word yet of any arrests as RCMP continue to talk with witnesses to try and piece together what happened.
2009-05-15:
11:26:44:
Even though the lot continues to sit vacant, work continues behind the scenes on the Peel Plaza proposal. Council has approved the steering committee to move to the next stage and ask three companies to respond to a request for proposals. They are Integrated Team Solutions, Ashford Investments Inc and AeroTerm Management Co.
Once the contract is awarded, a three -story police facility, parking facility off of Carleton Street and a new justice complex will be constructed on the former YM-YWCA site. It's estimated the cost of the project is nearing the $100 million dollar mark.
2009-05-15:
04:02:16:
The Saint John Police Force will usher in it's new deputy chief during a ceremony at City Hall later this morning. It will announce the official promotion of Inspector Darrell Scribner to the rank of Deputy Chief in the council chamber. Scribner is taking over for Bill Reid, who was promoted to the chief of police when Al Bodechon announced he was stepping down last year.
Also taking part in the ceremony is Sargeant Bruce Connell who is being promoted to the rank of Inspector of the Criminal Investigation Unit. The ceremony gets started at eleven.
2009-05-15:
04:00:35:
There will be plenty of activity through-out the summer at the Saint John Airport. Westjet will resume it's third seasonal flight schedule today with six flights every week to and from Toronto not including Saturday. President and CEO Bernard Leblanc tells CHSJ News, the airline will offer competitive rates which should keep seats filled in a bid to keep the service year round.
Also just announced, Air Canada is re-introducing a 4th daily flight to Toronto starting June 20th.
2009-05-15:
03:59:38:
It's a cool and dark start to the Long Weekend for over a thousand people in the Province. The high winds and rain have been knocking down power lines and as of three this morning, just over 1400 people are still off the grid. At the height of the problem last night, over 7000 customers were with-out electricity. NB Spokes-person Heather McLean tells CHSJ News, some of the restoration crews have reached the limit for safe hours of work and are getting some rest to be refreshed for the morning if need be.
The hardest hit area is Grand Falls with over 600 customers with no power. Other area's include Moncton, Fredericton and Bouctouche.
2009-05-14
17:40:22
There are nearly seven thousand NB power customers without electricity at this hour as a result of strong winds knocking down polls and power lines. Spokesperson Heather MacLean says there are currently 122 separate incidents but crews continue to work at restoring power.
She says restoration times will vary throughout the province as conditions change.
2009-05-14
17:14:13
Opposition members are skeptical that a new bill introduced in the legislature today will be passed. The provincial Conservatives have introduced proposed legislation that would allow desperate mothers to leave unwanted newborns at the hospital up to 72 hours after giving birth without fear of prosecution. Rothesay MLA, Margaret An Blaney tells CHSJ News government has supported the bill in principal but it doesn't look like it will get past second reading because of the complexity of the issue.
Any babies left at an emergency room would be turned over to the care of the province and likely be put on the foster or adoption list. Blaney says if this bill doesn't go forward, she hopes government can work together to come up with a replacement.
2009-05-14
17:11:37
Members of the New Brunswick Advisory Council on the Status of Women will be lobbying municipal governments to introduce pay equity for municipal employees. Chair, Elsie Hambrook tells CHSJ news they will be meeting with councils in the coming months to deliver a presentation on pay equity.
Pay equity involves not only equal pay for both men and women for the same work--but--also bumping traditional women's jobs to the same pay level as jobs traditionally held by men. So far Quispamsis and Memramcook are the only two municipalities in the province who have completely implemented a pay equity policy for their staff.
2009-05-14
12:42:45
Like most arena's across North America......Quispamsis is offering up naming rights for the Q-Plex to a corporation. Mayor Murray Driscoll tells CHSJ News, the price is one million dollars.
The current price tag of the Q-Plex is $2.8 million dollars over budget and Driscoll says if a sponsor can be found, this certainly can keep the original design in tact. Also up for naming rights at the new arena is the pool area, dog park, playground, walking track and conference center.
2009-05-14
12:41:51
The Department of Transportation is performing an inspection on the Kennebecasis River bridge near Hampton today. This after a tractor trailer hit a clearance beam on the structure yesterday on Route 121. Andrew Holland with DOT tells CHSJ news the beam served its purpose.
RCMP tell us the driver is not pleased because he says his tractor is well below the posted height 4.1 meter limit which is shown on the sign of the structure. Holland with DOT says drivers should pay close attention to the signs and he's not sure why the trucker was confused about the clearance. The driver wasn't hurt but one of the beams of the bridge is bent.
2009-05-14:
04:34:48:
Alot of people walked away from last night's meeting, frustrated they didn't get the answer they were looking for. Lori Gale lives on Wedgewood Drive which is situated right behind a portion of the un-developed land on Millenium Drive. She tells CHSJ News, this proposal is no different than what they were shown in 2007 and calls for more public consultation have gone un-answered.
Residents do have until the 26th of next month to voice their approval or dis-pleasure with the proposal by letter or e-mail to the Town Hall. Gale says she isn't against development on Millenium Drive just not major commerical....something more along the line of lower density commercial.
2009-05-14:
04:33:53:
A public presentation by Town staff in Rothesay last night was well attended. Over 50 home-owners showed up to hear what the draft proposal for the Municipal Plan looks like. Many residents expressed concern over future development along Millenium Drive and near the Riverside Golf Course and what impact it would have on those homes already in the areas. Gay Drescher is the Director of Development Services and tells CHSJ News, there are no proposals for either area on the table.
Drescher says any development will be encouraged in the most appropriate manner and it doesn't have to be commercial, it can be residential. The next step in the process is to go over the findings, gather public input, a public hearing and then a vote by council.
2009-05-14:
04:32:38:
It's up and close to what most predicted. The Energy and Utilities Board has released it's weekly price schedule which shows the maximum for a litre of self-serve is 93.7 which is up just over four cents from a week ago. Rick Demoan owns the Shell Service station on Campbell Drive in Rothesay and tells CHSJ News, he never put alot of faith into gas prices spiking for a Long Weekend.
Propane is up over a penny at 82 cents and furnace oil is up almost three cents at 70.9.
