Fire Crews Deal with Tractor Trailer Problems Last Night

A couple of tractor trailers keeping emergency crews busy last night. At around 6:20 in the evening fire crews were called to 125 St. John Street where a tractor trailer carrying large equipment to the Digby ferry pulled down a cable and phone line. Saint John Energy has since fixed the problem.

Then about 10 minutes later, crews were called to highway 7 near Grand Bay Westfield where a tractor trailer was leaking fuel all over the road. Apparently the truck's drive shaft punctured the fuel tank on both sides and crews spent nearly two hours cleaning up the mess. A plugging compound was used to stop the leak and the Department of Environment was called in. No streams were contaminated.

News Cases of H1N1 Virus

The number of people with the H1N1 virus in the province has climbed to 16 with six new cases being reported. Chief Medical Officer of Health, Dr. Eilish Cleary, says a Fredericton-area man; A man and woman from northern New Brunswick; and two women and a man from the Moncton area, have all contracted the so-called swine flu. They range in age from their 20's to their 40's and there is no word on how they may have caught the virus.

Information on the severity of these six new cases is expected later this week.

Police Budget Showing a Surplus

The 2009 police operating budget is looking good after the first fiscal reporting period. The 2008 budget was in a deficit of over 900 thousand dollars, but so far this year there is a surplus of over 70 thousand. Police Chief Bill Reid says sometimes you have to review what happened the year before, and try and remedy the situation.

Reid says the perfect storm of 2008 is over, where one costly event came after another, whether it be expensive investigations, or the increase in fuel costs. Reid says the budget is subject to situations out of his control---but things are looking very good so far this year.

Man Who Caught Baby Receives Award

[Chair of the Police Commission David Emerson Presenting James Blagdon with Award----Photo by Melissa O'Rourke]

The man who caught a baby falling from a third storey window says he's ready for things to get back to normal.James Blagdon says he was surprised by the amount of media attention he received after catching the falling baby on Victoria Street in the North End near the end of June.Blagdon says he was in the right place at the right time, but it's time to move on.
Blagdon was awarded the Certificate of Merit from the Board of Police Commissioners last night for making a life saving attempt.Brian Norwood received a Letter of Accommodation for his part in the rescue, as ran upstairs to try and warn the parents of the child.The baby boy did bump his head on the sidewalk, but is doing fine.

City Hires Recruiting Firm

The city has hired a recruiting firm to find the next City Manager. Common council approved hiring Robertson Surette at last night's council meeting. Partner, Anna-Marie Stuart says her firm could be looking for candidates by this summer.

The city solicitor is still in the middle of looking into whether or not the city can hire staff on five-year contracts, rather than permanently. Former City Manager Terry Totten retired from his position last month with a hefty severance package that included half a million dollars and a juicy pension plan. Robertson Surrette's fee is 28 percent of the first year's compensation for the winning candidate and an additional 8 per cent for administrative fees.

Bell Aliant to Bring Fibre Optic Technology to Saint John and Fredericton

The provincial government is partnering with Bell Aliant, to be the first in Canada to launch a fibre optic network directly to homes in an entire city. Bell Aliant is investing 60 million dollars in FibreOP--the most advanced fibre optic technology available. President and CEO, Karen Sheriff says they will deliver the best broadband experience to 70 thousand homes and businesses in both Saint John and Fredericton by mid 2010.

The province is contributing one million dollars to the project--and--renewing a contract with the company. In return, Premier Shawn Graham says Bell Aliant will award 3 million dollars in project-related contracts to local businesses. No word on what the cost of the fibre optic network will be for customers.

Strange Act of Vandalism

With today's prices....it's hard to believe anyone can afford to waste it. Sussex RCMP continue their search for someone who threw oil on the windshield of another vehicle over the weekend. It was along Route 114 in Penobsquis when a green Dodge pick-up truck flashed it's lights at an on-coming car which stopped to see what was going on.

Someone in the rear of the truck then threw the oil at the car. It couldn't be driven because the slick couldn't be cleaned off with windshield washer fluid. No one was hurt.

Tough Places in Saint John to Drive

The Traffic Unit of the Saint John Police Force has just completed a three year study. It shows the three highest collission area's in the metro are Kanes Corner, Loch Lomond Road and Rothesay Avenue. Sargeant Jeff LaFrance heads up the Traffic Division and tells CHSJ News, defensive driving is the key to getting the number of accidents with injuries down.

To try and correct the problem....the traffic unit will conduct educational and enforcement strategy in these area's to try and reduce the number of accidents.

Plenty of Rain in the Past Three Weeks

So just how much rain has Greater Saint John been soaked with over the past three weeks? With three days of sunshine in the forecast this week, we can look back and see just how miserable things have been. Since the 15th of last month, 135 millimeters has fallen since this past Sunday with the average being just over 60 millimeters. Evironment Canada Meteorologist Claude Cote tells CHSJ News, he has been doing this for awhile and can't remember this soggy of a start to the summer season.

If the rain-fall amount didn't depress you.....this probuably will.........we haven't seen a full day of sunshine since June.17th.

Major Crime Still Working on Found Body

Finger-print analysis will be used by the Major Crime Unit as they continue to try and identify a body. It was discovered in a creek in East Saint John last weekend by River-Valley Ground Search and Rescue who were on a training missing. Officers indicate they are pretty sure who the man is but want to be 100% positive before making an announcement to the public and the family.

No foul play is suspected.

Premier's Report on Proposed LNG Terminal

There is no mincing of words from Premiers Graham's office concerning the proposed LNG Terminal in Maine. Graham has completed and sent in a report on the Downeast LNG draft environmental impact statement. It says the project would have major impacts on the lives of those who live and work on Head Harbour Passage and Passamaquoddy Bay. The environment would be negatively affected, tourism- and environmental-based economy would suffer and the safety and security of the region could be compromised.

Graham will share the report with Prime Minister Harper in light of Ottawa's opposition to LNG vessel traffic through Head Harbour Passage.

Upgrade for NB Southern Railway

$18 million dollars from Fredericton and Ottawa are being invested for improvements to the New Brunswick Southern Railway. The company will provide the remainder of the funding for the project which is expected to create 35-40 jobs. The money will be used to replace, upgrade and improve the ties, steel rail, rail bed and bridges and upgrade the railway's terminals in Saint John and McAdam.

There will also be an upgrade to the mainline track from Saint John West to the border and from McAdam to St. Stephen.

South End Building Getting a New Look

A new look is coming to one of the oldest buildings in the South End. After months of negotiations, Commercial Properties has purchased the old Brunswicker on Sydney Street. A spokes-person for the company tells CHSJ News, they plan to renovate the building and lease it as office space.

They have a few tenants in mind but no word on who at this point. They hope to get renovations started at the end of the summer but no word on when they will be finished.

More Canadian Soldiers are Dead

[Compliments of the Canadian Press]

Two Canadian soldiers have been killed along with a coalition soldier in a helicopter crash in Afghanistan. The Canadians have been identified as 38-year-old Master Cpl. Pat Audet and 25-year-old Cpl. Martin Joannette. Three other Canadians were hurt.

Four Canadians on the Afghanistan mission have now died in as many days - six in less than a month. The latest deaths brings to 124 the total number of Canadian soldiers who have died as part of the mission since it began in 2002.

First Phase of Work Finished

Work has come to a halt on the One Mile Interchange but a spokesperson with the Department of Transportation tells CHSJ News, the project is being conducted in phases and the grading job of the first phase is complete. Phase 2 will be go to tender soon and should bring in lots of jobs.

The project will give truck traffic going to the industrial parks direct access to Bayside Drive, rather than driving through the city. The job is on course to be finished by the fall of 2011.

Loacl Artist has Nice Memories of Jackson

With a memorial Service planned in Los Angeles this afternoon to say goodbye to Michael Jackson, a Saint John man has fond memories of the King of Pop. Norm Jackson saw Michael perform 40 years ago with his brothers on the Ed Sullivan and walked away thinking this kid is something special. Jackson tells CHSJ News, like most people, he was shocked when he heard the news about Jackson being dead.

Jackson says being able to see Michael perform forty years ago is a nice memory to have of a talented man.

Harbour Clean Up Costs Balloon

The city is facing huge cost over-runs for Harbour Clean Up. The originally 80 million dollar project is now about 19 million dollars over budget. The city is writing a letter to the Federal and Provincial governments asking for more money--on top of the one-third funding they already gave Saint John. Acting City Manager Pat Woods says he doesn't want to end up using money for harbour clean up that would have been for clean drinking water projects.

Whether the province and the feds come on board with more money or not, the city is responsible for any cost over runs for the harbour clean up project. Mayor Ivan Court says regardless the work will get done, perhaps in phases over a longer time.

Provincial Funding for Canada Games Stadium Renovations?

Mayor Ivan Court says funding for the Canada Games Stadium is not far off. During last night's council meeting Court said good news was coming. Chair of the Acadian Games, Michel Côté, says they need the work to be finished by next summer because the UNBSJ facility is the only location where the track and field competition can be held.

The city is waiting for a provincial commitment to help fund the six-million-dollar renovations. Both the city and the federal government have said they are on board.

Saint John Transit Aims to Boost Ridership

Saint John Transit is hoping to increase ridership by half a million people by 2011 with longer hours, new bus routes and more frequent runs. One of the changes to take effect mid-July is direct service to the hospitals and UNB from the East and West side shopping malls. General Manager Frank McCarey says they plan to raise 200 thousand dollars of the additional cost for service through increased ridership.

There will be three main lines running from McAllister Mall to the hospital, Lancaster Mall to the Hospital and McAllister Mall to Lancaster Mall. Park ‘N Ride will also become available for suburban communities.

Latimore Lake to Get Park N Ride

Latimore Lake will soon be getting three city transit stops every morning and three return trips in the evening. The community began receiving one return run daily in 2007. President of the Latimore Lake Community Association Odette McGrath is a long-time advocate for adequate bus transportation to her area. She says the changes will benefit everyone from the young to the old.

As part of city transit changes, park n ride lots will also be built in Latimore Lake, Golden Grove and Lorneville.

Major Announcement Tomorrow Morning

A major infrastructure announcement is being made tomorrow morning in McAdam.Premier Shawn Graham, Veterans Affairs Minister Greg Thompson, and President of NB Southern Railway James Irving will be on hand.A spokesperson for the province tells CHSJ News, this announcement will be significant for all of southern New Brunswick.Things get underway at 10 o'clock at the McAdam Historical Restoration Commission.

Confirmation Of Doctor Working in the ER Over the Weekend

A caller to our newsroom over the weekend said the Regional Hospital was without an emergency room doctor on Sunday.Dr. David Marr tells CHSJ News, this is not the case, and there were physicians working during the entire weekend.Marr says there are policies in place to ensure emergency care can be provided even if they are short handed.
Marr says the hospital has an overcapacity policy, and a disaster policy which prepares them for almost anything.

President of The West Side Business Association Responds to Concerns

The president of the West Side Business Association says he's surprised a business owner went to the media to voice concerns about a proposed tax, rather than to the group or the city.Owen Boyle tells CHSJ News, the tax is 1 and a half cents on a thousand dollar property assessment, and it's going towards improving the business area on the west side, and to attract more patrons, and businesses.He says the proposal is not designed to hurt any local businesses.
Boyle is responding to Dorothy Shepard the owner of the Colour Centre who said she cannot support the bill, unless she knows exactly what the money will be going towards.He says the West Side Business Association doors are always open, and that if she has any concerns to give them a call --- like almost every other business on the West side has already done.

RCMP take Two Teenagers into Custody

A string of mischief and arsons in the Charlotte County area has resulted in charges against two 19-year old men. During the last week of June, homes in the Utopia and St George areas suffered various damages to property including broken mail boxes, broken vehicle windows, smashed flower pots, stolen and broken garden lights, damaged above ground pools and several fires, including two vehicles that were attempted to be set on fire.

No word on when the two men from St. George will appear in court.

Results of the 2009 Moose Draw Available

The results of the 2009 moose draw are now available.
To find out if you have been chosen you can call 1-800-459-3729, or check online at the Natural Resources website.
Applicants must have their medicare number available to check if they have won the draw.
There were over 60 thousand applications in for just over 34 hundred licences for the season starting on September 24th.

Camping Numbers are Down

The vacancy sign is up at the Rockwood Park Campground but so far, not to many takers. Three weeks of rain and the struggling economy in the United States are both factors to the decrease in campers. Manager Jeff Spears tells CHSJ News, construction work at the entrance to the park is an in-convenience but worth it in the long run.

Spears says many of his regular U.S. visitors have calledand say they simply can't afford to make the trip this year. If everything stays on course, renovations to the campground itself could get started this fall.

Update on Highway Seven Crash

A 21-year old man from Quispamsis was hurt late last week in a two-vehicle accident along Highway Seven in Petersville. RCMP say a north bound vehicle illegally passed on a double solid line and hit a vehicle travelling south-bound. Damage to the Ford Ranger and Jeep Liberty was extensive.

The man from Quispamsis was taken to hospital in Fredericton but no word in his condition. Officers are also trying to locate two men who were in a vehicle that was about to be passed before the accident happened. The driver is believed to be between 16-18 years old and the passenger in his late 40-s or early 50's.

Target Practise in Hampton

Nobody hurt after someone decided to take some target practise in Hampton over the weekend with a bb gun. RCMP tell us they received three complaints of a home or vehicle being hit but nobody was hurt.

Officers picked up a young man who they know on a first name basis. He is on probation and has been sent back to the jail in Miramichi.

Arson Cases in St. Stephen

The search continues for a suspect or suspects following a rash of arsons in St. Stephen last week. RCMP tell us they are still reviewing the files and there were no blazes over the week. 12 vehicles were torched at a body shop, the fire chief's vehicle in Rollingdam was stolen from the fire hall, driven to another location and torched.

Another vehicle was lit up at the local curling club and a pair of buildings were also destroyed. Nobody was hurt.

Clean Air Coalition on Public Review of Refinery

The Clean Air Coalition is encouraging everyone to check out the public review documents concerning the Irving Oil Refinery. The document responds to questions brought forth by the public concerning the pollution caused by the refinery. Spokes-person Gordon Dalzell tells CHSJ News, the review addresses a lot of his groups concerns. '

Dalzell says people need to review the document and contact newly appointed Environment Minister T.J Burke with any concerns. He says pressure needs to be put on the minister to ensure strong regulations are put into place to help protect the air quality in the city.

Saint John Transit With New Route Plan

Changes in the bus system may be on the horizon. New routes and schedules for city transit buses will be presented to Common Council during tonight's meeting. The plans will feature changes that include a new Park'n'Ride service with parking lots and new routes proposed for Lorneville, Latimore Lake and Golden Grove area's.

Tonight's council meeting gets underway at 6:30pm.

West Side Business Owner Not Happy

A proposed tax to west side businesses is causing concern for one owner. The owner of the Colour Centre says the proposed tax is worrisome because she has no idea what it is for. Dorothy Shepard tells CHSJ News, she was told by the West Side Business Association that they can't say where the money will be spent until council approves it.

Shepard says she doesn't oppose the tax, she just wants to make sure it's not going towards new roads or other projects her property tax already should be paying for. The public proposal is planned for July 20th.

West-Side Robbery

An attempted robbery at a West-Side store last night. City Police tell us a man wearing a mask with a weapon walked into Martello Convenience at 9:30pm and demanded money from the clerk.

They refused and the man ran from the store empy handed.

Investigation Into Found Body Continues

Still plenty of questions but not alot of answers concerning a body that was found over the weekend. City Police were called to East Saint John Saturday morning to find a body in the creek behind Parkway Mall just before eleven o'clock. It was discovered by River-Valley Ground Search and Rescue who were on a training mission.

The body was scheduled for an autopsy yesterday to i.d. the person and try to figure out the cause of death.

Pocalogan Crash Update

The status of the two people in serious condition after a crash on Highway One near Pocalogon Friday will be released sometime tomorrow.RCMP say an official statement will be made after the crash that initially sent 6 people to the hospital.The two vehicle crash resulted in four people being sent to the hospital, but later released, with two others remaining in serious but stable condition.
RCMP say it appears a car heading East bound went over the yellow line and struck the side of a vehicle heading West bound.

15th Annual Historica Fair

A couple of local students are heading to Ottawa to display their history projects at the 15th Annual Historica Fair.13 year old Moriah Russell, with a project on Mabel Phoebe Peters, and 13 year old Aiden Ingalls project on One Room School Houses will be on display along with 100 other projects from all across Canada.Along with the fair, students will be given tours of historic and cultural sites around Ottawa. The fair starting on July 7th chose applicants from a pool of over 250,000 students.

Update on Human Remains Found in East Saint John

Details are still limited on the human remains found in East Saint John yesterday.An autopsy is scheduled for today to identify the decomposed body found in the swamp area behind the Best Western Hotel.The area is still blocked off, and police spent most of the day yesterday on site after receiving the tip from a ground and rescue team conducting a training exercise.The police are expecting the Major Crimes Unit to release a statement later today with more information.

Motorcycle Accident in Quispamsis

One man is in the hospital after breaking his collarbone during a motorcycle accident in Quispamsis last night.Rothesay Regional Police say a 21 year old man lost control of his motorcycle just before 2 am and went off the road.The police believe alcohol was a factor in the crash, and charges are pending.

Proposal For Soccer Field at Carelton Community Centre

Soccer players on the West Side may have reason to be excited. The game that is played exclusively at Beaconsfield school may have a new field at the Carleton Community Centre. Counsellor Carl Killen will be proposing the idea of a new field in common council on Monday.
Reports on funding for the field should be available by the next council meeting.

Work Being Done on Tourism Saint John Website

Work on the city's tourism website is well underway. Sean Payne with Tourism Saint John tells CHSJ news the website is undergoing a complete transformation that make it look far more modern and easier to navigate.
The new website is expected to be launched by the end of the summer.

Human Remains Found in East Saint John

A Grizzly discovery in East Saint John earlier this morning.Around 10:45 police were called after human remains were found in the brook behind the Best Western hotel.It's early in the investigation, and the identification unit is on scene collecting what they can find.
More details to come as they become available.

Robbery in East Saint John

The Major Crime Unit is investigating a robbery in east Saint John last night.Around 10 o'clock a man entered Little John's Convenience store with a weapon and a bandanna covering his face.He was able to get away with an undisclosed amount of cash.There were no injuries.

City Police Round Up

A man wanted by city police turned himself in to Moncton RCMP yesterday.The man was wanted for robbing someone at knife point at a bus stop at the McAllister Mall. After picking him up police were able to locate a woman also involved in the incident. They are both facing robbery charges.
Police also responded to an assault call around 8 o'clock in the uptown area.A 49 year old man attacked a 60 year old man on Princess Street.Police picked him up and is charging him with assault with a weapon after he hit the elderly man in the head with his own cane.

People Opting for a Stay-Cation

Now that summer is in full swing, vacation planning is at its peak and stay-cations are all the rage. The Conference Board of Canada says more than 79% of Canadians plan to take a summer vacation this year with the majority planning to stay at home. Sean Payne with Tourism Saint John tells CHSJ News there is plenty to do right here in the port city:
Payne recommends Saint Johner's take advantage of Rockwood Park, Mispec and New River Beach, as well as museums and art galleries.

WorksafeNB Stakeholders Report

WorkSafe NB is boasting that it exceeded its targets for service, staff satisfaction and reduced accident frequency last year. In the latest stakeholders report WorkSafe NB also says it improved pension benefits for injured workers, and decreased employer assessment rates in 2008.
President and CEO Doug Stanley says the report recaps a year of successes and challenges amid a year of change. Last year, the agency adopted its new name, changed its industry classification system, and changed the composition of its board of directors.

Opposition Urges Government to Save School Support Jobs

There is optimism that some school support jobs that were cut earlier this year can be saved. Both the New Brunswick Teacher's Association and the Provincial opposition are urging Education Minister Roland Hache to use the province's Innovative Learning Fund to save some positions.

Haché recently froze the 3.4 million dollar program, initially budgeted at 5 million dollars. Opposition Leader David Alward says the frozen funds won't reverse all of the education cuts but is insisting they be used to relieve some of the damage.

Six People Sent to Hospital in Highway Crash

Six people have been sent to hospital following a two-vehicle collision on Highway One near Pocologan this morning. The Highway was closed in both directions for about an hour while crews cleared debris off the road. Three people from one vehicle were sent to the Charlotte County Health Centre and have since been released--and--two adults and one child from the other vehicle were transported to the Saint John Regional Hospital. The two adults are in serious but stable condition and the child was uninjured.

RCMP say it appears a car heading East bound went over the yellow line and struck the side of a vehicle heading West bound.

ATV Fatality

A 49 year old man from the Bathurst area is dead following a single off-road vehicle crash near the Red Pine Shelter in California Lake. RCMP say Jacques Godin, from Tremblay, died at the scene. It appears he lost control of his four-wheeler and hit a tree.

RCMP Investigate Suspicious Fires in St. Stephen

St. Stephen RCMP are investigating a rash of suspicious fires that have occured over the past three days. The latest was a car set ablaze this morning in the town curling club parking lot around 3:30am. This is the 14th car to be set on fire since Canada Day. Fire crews responded to a fire on Route 127 in Waweig on July first where a vacant building was completely destroyed. A second fire the same day resulted in 12 cars being destroyed at a garage in Tower Hill, and then a vehicle belonging to a member of the Rollingdam Fire Department was stolen and later found burned-out in Elmsville.

Last night a structure at Camp Waweig was completely destroyed by fire. RCMP believe all five fires are connected. Mounties are asking for the public's help with any information about the suspected arsons.

RCMP Stop Contraband Cigarette Shipment

Two people will appear before a judge in September on charges related to the trafficking of contraband cigarettes. The RCMP Customs and Excise Section of St.Leonard intercepted a large shipment of contraband smokes believed to be headed for Sussex last week. Officers says they stopped a vehicle on Highway 2 in the Edmundston area and two people, including one youth, had nearly 109 thousand contraband cigarettes.

They were arrested and are due in court September 9th.

Local Filmaker Wins Award

A first place win for a man from Saint John at this years Commwealth Vision Awards. Filmaker Greg Hemmings took home the hardware for his piece which examines the effects of climate change and cultural transformation in a small community in the northeastern Quebec region known as Nunavik.

Hemmings has been producing documentaries for more than 10 years in many parts of the world.

New Liquor Store for St. Stephen

There has been talk about it for quite some time and today we have more details. St. Stephen is getting a new liquor store which will set up shop in the Charlotte Mall adjacent to Sobeys. NB Liquor spokes-person Nora Lacey tells CHSj News, this new set-up will have 7000 square feet which brings it in line with new stores opening around the Province.

Lacey says one of the great features of the new store will be a walkway which hooks up with Sobeys. The store is expected to be open by January of next year.

Gay Pride Week is Cancelled

Many are sure to be disappointed when they hear this year's Pride Week Celebrations has been cancelled. The Board of Directors decided to pull the plug because there are just too many events not yet confirmed. Mack MacKenzie is the Director and tells CHSJ News, next year will be bigger and better with 13 months to prepare.

MacKenzie says he isn't concerned their growing support will go away if the Festival is missed this year. Next years celebration will co-incide with Saint John's 225th birthday.

Gas Prices are Down......Slightly.

It's down......but you could probuably use an eye-dropper to fill up your tank with the savings it is showing on the big board. The Energy and Utilities Board has released it's latest price schedule which shows the maximum price for a litre of self-serve is going for 99.8 which is down percentage points from last week. Most stations in the metro area still have a litre selling for just over a loonie.

Diesel has held the line coming in at 97.6.....furnace oil is down percentage points to come in at an even 79 cents and propane is down almost a penny at 85.8.

Two Companies File for Bankruptcy

Two Quebec companies that raised millions of dollars from New Brunswick investors are now in bankruptcy. Groupe Financier CTIC, CIT-CAP Groupe Financier and their principal, Patrick Gauthier, were recently the subject of an order issued by the provincial Securities Commission. They raised more than 5.7 million dollars from provincial residents in Edmundston and Grand Falls-- and to a lesser extent-- in the Acadian Peninsula, Moncton, Saint John and Fredericton, between 2006 and 2008.

A Commission investigation in early 2009 revealed that neither company had complied with securities laws in selling its investments. Investors are urged to seek professional advice with respect to their rights under the bankruptcy.

Two Wharves Get Federal Cash

Fundy Royal MP Rob Moore has made two harbour related announcements today. St. Martins is on the receiving end of 530 thousand dollars for harbour repair and maintenance as well as dredging projects.

The Black River Wharf will also get money to support repairs and reconstruction of the local wharf. Both funding announcements come through the federal Small Craft Harbour program. Tenders will soon be available and it is hoped contracts will be awarded in the coming months.

RCMP Investigate Suspicious Fires

Fire officials say three fires last night near Oak bay and Rollingdam are suspicious and may be connected. Oak Bay Fire Chief George McLeod tells CHSJ news the first fire was at a building on the intersection of highway 127 and highway One. The building was vacant at the time but fully engulf in flames by the time the fire department arrived. McLeod says 12 vehicles in a garage were destroyed by the second fire.

Mcleod says a car was also stolen from the Rollingdam area and set on fire in the Elmsville area. Meanwhile, RCMP are investigating a fourth fire this morning at the Kent Building Supplies in St. Stephen. A car in the parking lot went up in flames around 9:30am. No word on the cause.

Raid on Home by RCMP

463 grams of marijuana, marijuana seeds and two thousand dollars in cash. That is what RCMP seized from a home in Tracey Mills on Tuesday.

Charges are pending against two people........a 28-year old man and 31-year old woman.

WorkSafeNB Explains Closing the Pool

A spokesperson for WorksafeNB tells CHSJ News, the reason the pool is closing is because of the small amount of clients who use it.Mary Tucker says the pool is not used enough by clients to justify the cost of operating it.She says no jobs are being affected by this decision.

Second Turbine Travels to Point Lepreau

After falling into the harbor, two trips to the U.K. and back, two huge turbines for the refit project at Point Lepreau are almost done travelling. The second was loaded onto a barge this morning and will arrive at the generating station by the end of the day. The first arrived on Tuesday.

No word on when they will be installed at the plant.

Work on Costco Store Continues

Completition of the pad for the new Costco store in East Saint John is coming along at a steady pace. If everything stays on schedule, construction of the building is expected to get started next month. Troy Northrup with East Point Shopping tells CHSJ News, no confirmed date but the store will be open in the spring of next year.

Northrup adds there will be some announcements in the coming weeks about new development for the area.

Town Responds to SpyGlass Hill Fight

Rothesay Town officials do admit they are reviewing it's municipal plan. Mayor Bill Bishop tells CHSJ News, the over 200 acres owned by Derek Oland is currently residential and the plan calls to increase the density of the population a bit.

Bishop adds if you look at the bigger picture.....the area is private property and residents really shouldn't be using it with-out permission.

The Fight is on to Save SpyGlass Hill

With currently over 900 signatures on his FaceBook site, one man is hoping he can preserve a piece of greenspace in Rothesay. Know as SpyGlass Hill, it is used by many to hike, bike, walk and just enjoy nature. The proposed review of the municipal plan calls for the area to be rezoned for moderate growth over the 200 acres span. Nick Gresh tells CHSJ News, they also heard of a plan to put in a connector road.

Gresh says he isn't anti-development but is hopeful the population number can be increased in a different spot.

CUPE Protesting Removing Pool Services at WorksafeNB Facility

[CUPE President Danny Legere outside Rehab Centre----Photo By Dave Briggs]

Members of the Canadian Union of Public Employees are protesting WorkSafeNB's decision to get rid of pool services at it's rehab centre.President Danny Legere tells CHSJ News, this decision will set back any progress made on injured workers using pool therapies.
Legere says the plan is to bus patients who need the therapy into a Saint John facility from Grand Bay-Westfield.

Business Council Announces Changes

Derek Oland, the Executive Chairman of Moosehead Breweries is taking on some new responsibilities. He is the new chair of the New Brunswick Business Council, taking over from Denis Losier, President and CEO of Assumption Life. Also, the council is actively recruiting for a new position.......President and Chief Executive Officer.

The new post will be in replacement of the Council’s founding Executive Director, Donald Dennison, who will retire in the fall.

Saying Goodbye to Romeo Leblanc

Before the state funeral tomorrow----the public has the opportunity to say goodbye to Romeo LeBlanc today. There will be limited seating for the viewing at his home in Memramcook. His state funeral is scheduled for tomorrow morning at 11 at the Saint Thomas Church and is closed to the media and the public.

Politicians from all three levels of government are expected to be on hand. LeBlanc was the first Acadian appointed governor general, and died last week after a lengthy illness at the age of 81.

New Campaign for Summer Tourism

Summer tourism for Saint John has kicked into high gear. Several promotional partners have begun the "Give Saint John John a shot" campaign to bring in more visitors. Hilton Saint John spokesperson Tammy LeBlanc tells CHSJ News, people often forget the great resources the city has to offer.

Tourism in the city brings in roughly $250 million dollars to the economy a year. The advertising campaign is going to be running until October 15th.

New Chair of Securities Commission

David Barry is the new chair of the New Brunswick Securities Commission. He has been practicing law in the city for over 30 years focusing on commerical law, tax planning, venture capital spending and corporate finance and securitires.

Barry has been appointed to a 5 year term by new Justice and Consumer Affairs Minister Mike Murphy and takes over the position immediately.

Temporary Lot for Parking Commission

The Saint John Parking Commission has gotten the go ahead to create a temporary parking lot on Union Street. The Planning Advisory Committee approved the application but stipulates it can't be operational for more than a year.

PAC members were concerned about excess lighting on residents living nearby, but Commission General Manager Richard Smith says additional lighting will not be necessary.

Operation JellyBean Update

Three Fredericton area men will find out their fate from a judge in the coming weeks and months. All appeared in court over the past week on drug related charges in connection with Operation JellyBean. It was a drug sting carried out by RCMP with the help of Saint John and Fredericton police forces. 27 year old Troy Albert has pled guilty on all counts and will be sentenced on October 13. 39 year old Timothy Clayton Price, who also faced charges of weapons and firearms possession, was found guilty on all counts and will be sentenced at the end of this month.

28 year old Christopher Gregory Trites pled guilty to conspiracy to traffic marijuana. He is scheduled to be sentenced on August 27. Several other people w2ho are facing charges in t5his investigation, are due in court later this year.

Greater Saint John Celebrates Canada Day

Despite the wet weather.......a good crowd showed up around Greater Saint John to take part in Canada Day festivities. The Boardwalk was full as the crowd enjoyed toys and games for the kids along with food and tunes for the older crowd. The fireworks went off as scheduled over the Harbor just after ten o'clock and City Police say despite the huge crowd, everyone was well behaved.

Rothesay Regional Police report a quiet night as well with the exception of a few calls to homes concerning people shooting off fireworks.

Cupe to Hold Demonstration

If your travels today take you past the Workers Rehabilitation Center in Grand Bay Westfield, don't be suprised if you see a few people outside the building.

Cupe members will hold a demonstration to mark a ceremony that they are calling....""the death of public not for profit health care to the employers and injured workers of this province. Things get started at ten o'clock.

Fire Call in East Saint John

Nobody hurt after City Fire-fighters were called to a home in East Saint John last night. The alarm was sounded just before 9:30pm at 895 Grandview Avenue and when crews arrived, they found the basement full of smoke. They got inside and found there was a malfunction with the furnace causing it to spit out smoke.

Crews ventilated the home and were on their way.

Fee For Ambulance Starts Today

The fee for using an ambulance is going to effect today.
As outlined in the 2009-10 budget, from now on it will cost $130 dollars to take a ride in an ambulance.
Former Health Minister Mike Murphy said the fee was being put back into place after the conservatives removed in 2005 because people were abusing the service----using it like a taxi.
Opposition MLA's are concerned about how this fee will affect seniors and low income families.
The social development office will need to budget for those who cannot afford to pay the fee.
The Graham government is expecting nearly $6 million dollars annually from reintroducing the charge.

Canada Day Festivities

[Flea Market Uptown-----Photo by Dave Briggs]

Flea Market and a people parade........just two of the events to highlight an activity filled day to celebrate the country's birthday in Saint John. The boardwalk has plenty for the entire family including a giant bounce ride for the children, basketball, and sidewalk chalk competition. The people parade gets started at eleven on King Street and finishes up with the flag raising ceremony at City Hall.
If it rains, the events will be moved inside to the Trade and Convention Center. Quispamsis, Rothesay, Grand Bay-Westfield, St. Martins and the all of the outlying municipalities have plenty on the go as well. For details, check their websites. As for the fireworks in Saint John tonight.....they are go at 10:15pm unless the fog rolls in.

Busy Night for Police

No problem keeping busy for city police last night responding to over 80 calls last night.Just before four in the morning police picked up a man in his late thirties acting drunk and obnoxious.They brought him into the station to sober up a bit, and released him, only to pick him back up nearly 20 minutes later for kicking in a window at the Trade and Convention Centre at Market Square.He will be in front of a judge at a later date.
Police also arrested a man for kicking in a window at Prince Edward Square, who will also be facing a judge later on.
There was also a fist fight on King Street that resulted in a man in his 40's breaking the tooth of a man in his 20's.The man was picked up on Union Street shortly after the fight and will be facing charges of assault causing bodily harm.

National Pride on the Rise

National pride among Saint Johners appears to be on the rise. Heather Peterson with the Canada Day Organizing Committee says more people are turning out for events that celebrate the nation's birthday. She tells CHSJ news celebrating Canada Day matters--whether you're at home with family or in the uptown with thousands of others:
Peterson says there are a lot of people who would love to move to Canada.

Parking Rates Increase Today

It takes effect today but because of the holiday, you won't have to worry about having more change to park in the uptown until tomorrow. Common council gave final approval two weeks ago for a 25 cent increase for on-street parking fees to land at $1.50 an hour. An expired parking meter fine will also go from ten dollars to fifteen bucks if paid within 7 days and a ticket for parking in a handicap, loading or bus zone will go from 35 dollars to 50 dollars.
This is the first parking fee increase in five years.

The Future of the Waterfront to be Presented

The final idea of what the development at the boardwalk will be presented to the Planning Advisory Committee early this fall.The anticipated timeline for the project will be presented at the September 15th PAC meeting to determine whether the project meets all the criteria set forth by the city.Members of the PAC will get 11 days to review the project, rather than the normal 3 because the project is so large.

Another Case of Swine Flu in the Province

A tenth case of the H1N1 virus --better known as the swine flu--has been confirmed in the province. Chief medical officer of health, Dr. Eilish Cleary, says the latest victim is a woman in her 50's from the Fredericton area.

So far, none of the reported cases in New Brunswick have required hospitalization.

Lower Taxes, Less Money

The province's Opposition Finance Critic says despite a tax reduction to take effect tomorrow, taxpayers will actually have less money than before the March 2009 budget. Bruce Fitch says taxes are still not down to the level they were in 2007 and new fee increases means taxpayers will see less money than before the tax cuts.

Among the hikes are increased fees for vehicle registrations and driver’s licenses. Fitch says the Graham government is trying to make itself out as a hero by cutting taxes when New Brunswickers will have a deeper hole in their wallet than before. The Plan for Lower Taxes includes personal income tax savings of about 124 million dollars this year.

RCMP Seize Drugs on Tobique First Nation

RCMP have have dismantled a drug operation on the Tobique First Nation. More than two pounds of marijuana was seized from a home on the Lagoon Road yesterday, along with scales, packaging materials, 12 hundred dollars in cash and eight weapons.

A 42-year old man has been arrested and is being held for a show cause hearing.

JDI Gets Air Quality Approval

JD Irving will be getting a new air quality approval to operate its softwood sawmill near Saint-Léonard. Environment Minister T.J. Burke says the company's current air quality approval expires July 30th.

The renewal for five years follows public consultation, including a 120-day public review period.

Reward For Lost Insulin Pump

A reward is being offered for the return of a lost insulin pump at Parlee Beach on Saturday. Brian McKiel says his son was swimming at the beach Saturday evening and discovered when he left the water that his pants were gone. McKiel tells CHSJ news the tiny pump, the size of a pager, was in the pants pocket.

McKiel says his son Sean is now back using a needle 3-4 times a day for his Juvenile Diabetes until he can get the pump back that will automatically regulate his insulin for him. A $300 reward is being offered for its return--and--it can be dropped off at any Kent Building Supplies stores in the Maritimes. McKiel says replacing the unit will cost about 68 hundred dollars.

NCO Call Centre Closing

We're getting reports that the NCO call centre here in Saint John will be closing and moving its operations. An employee, who has asked his name not be mentioned, tells CHSJ news the staff were told yesterday the centre will be closing its inbound department on August 31st and moving it to Panama. He says the outbound operation will also be closing by the end of the year.

We've placed several calls to the call centre and head offices to confirm the report but they have not returned our messages. No word on how many employees will lose their jobs.

Saint John Transit Says No to Pilot Project

A pilot project for the transit commission in Fredericton won't happen here. Buses in the capital city will offer a ride for 50 cents starting next month during the evenings and Saturdays. Saint John Transit General Manager Frank McCarey tells CHSJ News, they are always looking for ways to increase ridership, but this isn't one of them.

McCarey says they have looked at the 50 cent per ride project in other area's and it doesn't produce the results they were hoping for. Saying that....he wishes the Fredericton Transit Commission all the best with the pilot project.

First Turbine is Away

No further delays for NB Power in getting one of the refitted turbines to Point Lepreau. Crews had to back off yesterday due to the weather but loaded the piece of machinery on a barge this morning. Spokes-person Heather McLean tells CHSJ News, everything went according to plan and the turbine should arrive at the generating station this afternoon.

If the weather holds, McLean says they hope to load the second turbine on the barge tomorrow and deliver it to Point Lepreau.

Refurbishment Work Continues

We have the latest update for you on how things are coming along with the refit at Point Lepreau. The release of all 760 calandria tube inserts has been completed. This means crews can now get started on removing the tubes. The feeder platforms have been installed and are ready to be used. This is to provide better access for workers to get started with feeder installation and other work.

The generator stator core was put back into place this month. This is the latest piece of the puzzle for when the main generator rotor is re-installed which crews hope to do this month. At last count, things were still running behind schedule with completion of the project now scheduled for next year.

Court and the Paper Continue Feud

Any chance for peace between City Hall and the local paper may be out the window with the latest accusastions. Mayor Ivan Court says in a recent editorial board meeting, editor Jamie Irving told him if he doesn't do what they say......things will get more difficult for him and his role as mayor.

Court tells CHSJ News, he has no problem with fair comments but there is something wrong when one person or organization feels they have this much power.
Court says he will not bow down to anyone who has their own vested interest in what happens at City Hall. We have left a message for the papers editor Jamie Irving but have not yet heard back.

Graduation Day for Some

69 paramedics will graduate from the Atlantic Paramedic Academy today. It was founded in 2001 by St. John Ambulance and transitioned to Medavie EMS in December of last year.

They shouldn't have a hard time finding work as paramedics have been in short supply over the past few years.

Change to Gas Price Schedule

You have an extra day to enjoy the price of gas at a Loonie a Litre this week. Tomorrow is of course a Holiday, so that means the Energy and Utilities Board won't release it's new price schedule until Midnight Thursday.

Normally, we find out what we will be paying at the pumps at midnight Thursday but under certain circumstances, the legislation prescribes changes to the schedule.

Try Again to Move a Turbine

NB Power officials hope today is their day. After weather put their plans on hold to move one of the refurbished turbines to Point Lepreau yesterday, officials will try again to load it onto a barge. You'll remember both fell into the harbor last fall while being loaded onto a barge and had to be sent back to the U.K. for a refit.

If they get the first one on it's way today, they hope to get the second to Point Lepreau by the end of the week.

Busy Monday for City Police

The search continues for a crewman who went AWOL at the Port yesterday. City Police were called to the water-front late yesterday afternoon and spoke to the ship's captain who says they were getting ready to pull into the Bay, when they did a head count and discovered one of their sailors was missing. Officer's have been keeping an eye out for the man and the vessel remains tied up at the Port waiting to see if he will be found.

City Police are also looking for someone who damaged four vehicles at the Irving Nature Park last night. It was around 9:30pm when a vehicle decided to put on a show by doing a few brake stands and doughnuts and caused the damage. Nobody was hurt.

Environment Critic Calls for Action Against Vehicle-Dependency

The Green Party of Canada's environment critic is encouraging Saint John decision makers to continue the move towards green technology. Lisa Fox tells CHSJ news reducing pollution will make the city more healthy, attractive, and wealthy.

Fox says Canada should be investing in reversing the trend of car dependency. She says plans for a second oil refinery in Saint John don't do that because it supports the dying fossil fuel era.

North End Fire

One woman received oxygen after being checked over by paramedics this afternoon when her apartment building at 31 Davenport Avenue filled with smoke. Fire crews were called the to North End residence after reports of smoke coming from the building around four o'clock. Fire fighters found no flames, just a pot that had been left on the stove.

A woman who had been sleeping at the time was treated for smoke inhalation.

New Brunswickers to Pay Lower Taxes July 1

New Brunswickers will see a bigger pay cheque after July first. That's when provincial residents will begin to benefit from The Plan for Lower Taxes, released as part of the 2009-10 budget. The plan includes more than 380 million dollars in annual tax savings by 2012-13. Personal income tax savings this year will be about 124 million dollars.

For example: A single individual making 25,000 dollars per year will save 202 dollars this year and 473 dollars annually by 2012. New Brunswickers can learn more about The Plan for Lower Taxes and calculate their own tax savings online.

http://www.gnb.ca/cnb/promos/budget2009/index-e.asp

Good News for Charlotte County Civic Centre

A new engineering report will help move the Charlotte County Civic Centre on to the next phase. Chair of the Board of Directors for the Civic Centre project, Richard Fulton, says an independent assessment from engineering firm Jacques Whitford shows the preferred Budd Avenue site is suitable for construction.

The consultant's report concludes the Budd Avenue site has traces of environmental contamination but falls within the environmental guidelines for commercial construction. Fulton says once the town of St. Stephen has reviewed the report, a copy will be sent to the Municipal Capital Borrowing Board. Before fully accepting this site, the Town has committed to holding a public information session on July 9th at the St. Stephen Legion. The multi-million dollar project has received funding from all three levels of government.

Schryer Says Meetings Are Being Planned

Health Minister Mary Schryer says meetings with medical officials are being scheduled, but nothing is concrete yet.Schryer says shortly after finding out she was taking over the portfolio she contacted stakeholders to introduce herself.She says with conflicting schedules, it's been tough to set up a meeting.
Schryer says when she introduced herself as the new Health Minister to medical officials, they were quite surprised. She says she looks forward to trying to advance her new portfolio.

Construction Begins at the Q-Plex

[Health Minister Mary Schryer, Mayor Murray Driscoll, and Fundy Royal M-P Rob Moore at the Q-Plex Site-----Photo By Dave Briggs]

The shovels are in the ground at the long awaited Q-Plex site.Quispamsis Mayor Murray Driscoll says the doors should be open at the complex by the summer of 2010.Driscoll says now that construction has begun, the excitement continues to grow.
Driscoll says this will be a regional facility, that everyone can enjoy.Saint John Mayor Ivan Court says the Q-Plex will take some of the stress off of city rinks, which will keep them in better shape longer.

New Look for Rothesay Superstore

The Province's second express style liquor store is now open at the Super-store in Rothesay. With a selection of 12 brands of beer, 263 wines and 53 spirits.....spokes-person Nora Lacey tells CHSJ News, this set-up is meant for convenience.

Lacey adds it is a bit of a test as well and what the feed-back is from the community. This is the corporations 48th store in the Province.