Mayor Says Closed Door Talks Needed On Pension Plan

Mayor Ivan Court says some closed door discussions with various parties involved in the civic pension plan will be needed to arrive at a solution to the plan's financial woes.
Court says it's the only way for the frank talk needed to get something in place for presentation to the taxpayers.
The mayor made the comment as a special committee of the whole meeting with pension consultants Morneau Sobeco which is underway in the council chambers at city hall.

More Shots Fired Over Injured Workers

Supporters of injured worker Tammy Gray are stepping up the pressure on Worksafe N-B.
Spokesman Bob Davidson has written a letter to Social Development Minister Kelly Lamrock asking for an inquiry into what he calls an abuse of taxpayers dollars.
Davidson says Worksafe N-B is referring workers to the provincial welfare system for financial assistance when it has a responsibility to provide services and meet the needs of injured workers.
He says Tammy Gray is a prime example of an injured worker being told to "get in line for public housing" -- Davidson says it's a misuse of public funds.

Mayor Overcome With Emotion At Fire Fighters Conference

Mayor Ivan Court emotional this morning as he was welcoming delegates to the Atlantic Region convention of the International Association of Fire Fighters -- he became emotional as he remembered his friend fire fighter Terry Graham who passed away last year.
Court was close to tears as he told the gathering of Graham's help in erecting election signs.
Graham will be honoured this evening during the fire fighters' parade and bell ceremony in King's Square.

Public Participation Process for Coleson Cove Underway

If you have any questions or concerns regarding the Coleson Cove thermal generating station now is the time to get them into the Department of Environment.The 180 day public participation process to renew the air quality operating approval is currently underway.The process covers all air quality related issues with the facility, and to submit comments check out the Environment Department website.Coleson Cove represents about 25 per cent of NB Power's total generating capacity, and it's current air quality operating approval expires in January 2010.

Province Now Able to Test For Swine Flu

The province now has the capability to test all stages of the so called swine flu.The Department of Health is confirming all testing can be done in the pandemic lab of the Dr. Georges L. Dumont Regional Hospital in Moncton.Previously all samples had to be sent to a lab in Winnipeg to confirm the H1N1 virus.Deputy Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Paul Van Buynder says this means the province will be able to better monitor the trends in the spread of the virus.The number of cases confirmed in the province as of today is 33.

Fire Fighters President Urges Members To Become Political

The president of the International Association of Fire Fighters says fire fighters to have to become more involved in the political process.
Harold Schaitberger told the opening of the Atlantic Region meeting of the I-A-F-F at the Trade and Convention Center that fire fighters have to work with decision makers in places like Oromocto and Saint John where departments are under review to ensure departments maintain levels of staffing for the safety of both fire fighters and the communities they serve.

Youth Home in Quispamsis

The 11th set-up for at risk youths under the guidance of Moncton Youth Services is opening in Quispamsis. The group has purchased the property at 186 Vincent Road and will take it over on Thursday. Some of the neighbours are concerned as they haven't gotten an answer on the definition of at risk youth. Mel Kennah is Executive Director and tells CHSJ News, this doesn't mean the community is in danger but the young people are.

Kennah says he will be speaking with his neighbours before the end of the week to try and aleviate any of their concerns. There will be a maximum of three youths at the home at any time under 24/7 supervision.

Close Call for Kayaker

Reversing Falls the scene of some excitement this morning. It was just after nine o'clock when a kayaker was getting ready for a ride through the rapids when his boat started filling up with water. He took shelter on the island near Fallsview Park until the Water Rescue Unit picked him up and brought him to shore.

His kayak was found by the Coast Guard near Ocean Steel.

Missing Person in Musquash

The search continues for a missing person in Musquash. The call went out last night and River-Valley Ground Search and Rescue, the Musquash Fire Department and RCMP are working together. No word on how old or whether it is a boy or girl they are looking for.

We have placed a call to RCMP for more details and are still waiting to hear back.

Valley and City Police Report

Rothesay Regional Police had a successful weekend, getting four drunk drivers off the road. The biggest catch came last night as one person is locked up and due in court later today. He faces several charges including driving while prohibited Canada wide and possession of a fire-arm.

City Police tell us they received another call about a mother bear and her cubs spotted again last night. The three have been roaming around the West-Side since last week, tipping over compost bins and garbage cans. No one has been hurt and the Department of Natural Resources has traps set.

Two Meetings at City Hall Tonight

Money is the topic of conversation at two meetings tonight at city hall. Things get started at four o'clock with the Finance Committee meeting in the 11th floor boardroom to discuss how the city's over-all numbers look to this point this year.'

Then at 5 o'clock in the council chambers consultants from Moreneau Sobeco will make their 4th presentation on the pension plan. They will discuss the pension with council members and explain the next steps in trying to deal with the ongoing shortfall in the plan.

Bell Ceremony Uptown Tonight

The memory of firefighter Terry Graham will be honored with a parade and bell ceremony tonight. He died in the line on duty on July.10th of last year and his name will be added on the Bell Memorial in Kings Square.

Before the ceremony, there will be a parade of department officials leavign from King Street East at 6:45pm. They will travel along Sydney to Kings Square North and around the square to Kings Square South.

Fire-Fighters Conference Gets Started

Saint John is playing host to the Atlantic Provinces Professional Fire Fighters Association's biennial Convention and Seminar for the next three days. Fire fighters from across Atlantic Canada will meet for the next three days to debate and vote on a number of resolutions submitted by local affiliates.

They will also elect a new Executive Board and listen to presentations on important issues such as critical incident stress management. The Association represents a total of 1,200 professional fire fighters.

Fatal Motorcycle Accident

A Springfield man is dead following a motorcycle accident yesterday morning.59 year old Gilles Martin crashed his motorcycle on Route 850 in Kiersteadville shortly after 9 o'clock while trying to avoid a deer.He was taken to the Regional Hospital, where he died from his injuries around 8 o'clock last night.

Bears Spotted on the West Side

West siders still need to be on the lookout for bears.City police tell us they received calls of a mamma bear and two cubs being spotted by the Ridgewood Addiction Services building. Police say the bears were rooting through compost bins.The Department of Natural Resources have set up humane traps in the area.

Another Armed Robbery

City police are reporting another armed robbery last night.This time a man entered the Quizno's restaurant on the East Side just before 10 o'clock with a weapon demanding money.No one was hurt in the incident, and the man got away with a small amount of cash.This is the third armed robbery in a week, with the first incident happening Wednesday at the Grove Lounge, and then Thursday at Doolys on McDonald Street.No arrests have been made so far.

No Controversy Over Library

There is no controversy brewing over the Kennebecasis Public Library. The building is finalizing an expansion which some say the town of Rothesay isn't happy about. The board, despite a report to the contrary, want the expansion to be attatched to it's exsisting building in Quispamsis. The consultants report has recommended an area next to the Rothesay Arena. Mayor Bill Bishop tells CHSJ News, they want to make sure it is the best site and the finances are in order.
Bishop says he has spoken with Quispamsis Mayor Murray Driscoll and both agree which-ever site is chosen, it should be what is best for residents in the Kennebecasis Valley.

The Bay of Fundy Moves On In Competition

The Bay of Fundy is moving to the next step to becoming a part of the New 7 wonders of nature.The Bay of Fundy is the only Canadian site moving onto the top 77 status in the contest.The second phase of the contest is over, bringing the total number of applicants down from 440 to 77.The next stage of the contest will have the New7Wonders independent panel of experts selecting 28 final candidate to be announced on July 21st.

Fundy Bay Keeper Worried Over Bridge Repair Work

Repair work on the Mispec River Bridge is causing concern for the Conservation Council. It has reported to the Coast Guard and Environment Department that work crews on the bridge are sweeping concrete and old paint into the mouth of the river. Spokes-person Dave Thompson tells CHSJ News, has hasn't been to the site but has received plenty of calls:
The endangered species Thompson is speaking of is one of the inner Bay of Fundy salmon populations. Thompson hopes if there is some wrong-doing, action will be taken before work on the bridge resumes on Monday.

Proposed Youth Home For At Risk Teenagers Causing Concern

A handful of Quispamsis residents are voicing their concerns over a proposed youth home for at risk teenagers in the area.The proposed site is 186 Vincent Road, and neighbour Donna Higgins tells CHSJ News, she is concerned because it is not being clarified what type of youths are going to be living in the house.
Higgins says she has contacted Moncton Youth Residences who will be running the program and says she cannot get a straight answer. Higgins says she is suspicious about the youth home because in the proposal it says the teenagers will require 24-7 supervision, and that neighbours would be contacted regarding the program and to air any concerns.The proposal was passed on June 9th, and Higgins says not a single neighbour has been contacted about the proposed site.

Police Looking For Drivers After Fleeing Accidents

City police are looking for two men who fled from their vehicles after getting into accidents early this morning.Just after two o'clock a vehicle was found overturned on the Loch Lomond Road by the airport. Police say a witness saw a man take off before they could arrive.
Then just after three o'clock a vehicle was found in a ditch on the Lorneville Road, and again the driver ran off before police could arrive.
Both incidents are under investigation.

Hache Getting Used to New Position

Still new to the porfolio, Education Minister Roland Hache says he's easing his way into the position.Hache tells CHSJ News, he spent a long time as Minister of the Environment, and is enjoying the challenges with his new post.Hache recently announced $2.9 million dollars going towards reinstating educational support staff, and says next on the agenda is the transportation file.
Hache says he is confident a solution can be figured out.

Small Business Optimism Dipped Slightly in New Brunswick

Business optimism among Canada's small business owners dipped last month despite hopeful signs earlier this year.The Canadian Federation of Independent Business shows decreases in provincial business optimism for the month of June.New Brunswick only slipped slightly going from 66.9 percent in May to 66.4.This province is showing the third highest level of optimism in the country coming in behind Prince Edward Island, and Saskatchewan.

Major Crimes Unit Looking For Public Help

City police are hoping the public can give them a hand identifying two men involved in armed robbery's.The first incident took place Wednesday night at the Grove Lounge on Golden Grove Road. The man was armed with a hand gun and demanded money.He is described as 5 foot 9, about 170 pounds with dark hair and a goatee and moustache, wearing a dark green hooded sweatshirt and baggy pants.
The second incident happened last night when a man entered Doolys on McDonald Street with a hand gun and demanded money.He is described as 6 feet tall, husky build with a buzz cut and dirty blonde hair.
There were no injuries during the incidents, and anyone with any information is asked to contact city police at 648-3333 or Crime Stoppers.

Two Vehicle Accident Sends 5 to the Hospital

An accident on Highway 100 last night sent five people to the hospital.Around 8 o'clock a two vehicle crack up at the intersection of Darlings Island sent four adults and one child to the hospital with minor injuries.The accident occurred when one vehicle stopped to make a left turn onto Darlings Island Road and the second vehicle slammed into the back of them.Charges are pending.

Update on Highway 1 Crash

[The Scene of the Crash-----Photo by Mark McGraw]

RCMP are still working on determining what caused the three vehicle crack up on Highway One yesterday morning.Sgt. Steve Gourdeau tells CHSJ News, it's suspected to have been caused by human error, but the results of the reconstructionists report will not be available for a few days.The accident near the Dolan Road Irving yesterday was between a cement truck, a tractor trailer and a car, and sent one man to the hospital. His injuries are not believed to be serious.The scene required the Mounties to be on site for nearly 10 hours after the crash cleaning up debris.

Local Take on General Motors Bankruptcy

A business professor at the University of New Brunswick says the General Motors soap opera is about to begin.
Barry Boothman tells CHSJ News, GM has been able to emerge from bankruptcy protection much faster than anticipated, but is unsure what the public is going to think about it.
Boothman says eliminating brands now, and experimenting with greener automobiles is coming a little late. He says brands such as Pontiac should have been phased out 10 to 15 years ago.Boothman says it's going to be hard for GM to pay back their government loans quickly because their debt was in the area of $172 billion dollars including assets.

Penobsquis Man Faces Assault Charges

Charges are pending against an 18 year old man from Penobsquis after an assault on a 21 year old woman from Kars yesterday. RCMP say the attack took place in a parking lot off Main Street in Sussex but the victim did not need medical treatment. The man and woman apparently know each other. The man is due in court at a later date.

Fair Taxes First Calls on City to Better Handle Spending

The Group Fair Taxes First says the city is using too much of it's annual budget on capital projects--and not enough on core services. The group says major projects will eat up 70 per cent of the annual budget leaving only a third for services such as snow removal, garbage collection, police, and transportation. Spokesperson Brian Stone tells CHSJ news many Saint John taxpayers are on fixed incomes and it's clear they cannot afford any tax increases.

Stone says common council must be fully aware a tax rate increase is inevitable if they continue down their bumpy road.

Union Applauds Education Cut Reversal

The Union representing Educational Support Staff is applauding the provincial government's decision to reverse 2.9 million dollars in cuts to school libraries and intervention programs. Sandy Harding of the Canadian Union of Public Employees tells CHSJ News this is a start but it still doesn't go far enough.

The initial cuts to the school districts meant the loss of about 300 library assistants, teachers assistants, and behavioural intervention workers, while close to 300 more would have seen their hours reduced. Harding says she's working with government to see how the reversal of some cuts will work out by September.

Saint John's Unemployment Rate Drops

Statistics Canada says Saint John's unemployment rate dropped to 5 per cent last month from 5.8 in May. The change comes as both the provincial and national jobless rates climbed in June. New Brunswick's unemployment rate jumped to 9.2 from 8.8 per cent last month--and-- Canada's unemployment rate rose to 8.6 per cent last month from 8.4.

The reason the national unemployment rate rose two-10ths of a point is that more Canadians began looking for work last month. But the labour market survey was less rosy as 47,500 full-time jobs disappeared in June as workers turned to part-time work and self-employment.

APEC Releases Report on Seniors

The latest report card by the Atlantic Provinces Economic Council is suggesting seniors incomes are at risk in the coming years.Senior Economist David Chaundy tells CHSJ News, seniors are seeing declines in the value of their pensions and retirement savings, and that may have a negative effect on the economy because they will be spending less.

Chaundy says seniors are delaying their retirement, and that people between the age of 65 and 69 are staying in the work force. He says the number of seniors still working has doubled over the past several years.

Police Investigate Armed Robbery

The Dooley's in Loch Lomond Mall on McDonald Street the scene of an armed robbery last night. Saint John police say one main in his late twenties walked in around 11:30pm with a weapon demanded cash from the bar. He made off with an undisclosed amount of money and walked out the door.

So far, police have no suspects.

Highway Back Open After Major Crash

Highway One near the Dolan Road Irving is back open this morning after a crash involving a cement truck, tractor trailer and car yesterday morning. An accident reconstruction team from Moncton was on scene until around nine o'clock last night--nearly 10 hours after the accident happened. The cement truck was knocked on its side leaving a huge mess to be cleaned up.

One man was taken to hospital, but his injuries are not believed to be serious. So far, no word on the cause of the crash.

Saint John Man Gets Leadership Award

The Executive Director of the Saint John Regional Hospital Foundation has been awarded the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy Canada Leadership Award. This national award recognizes Tim Cameron for his outstanding contribution to the community, institution and fundraising profession.

Highway 1 Accident Update

RCMP are still on Highway 1 at the scene of a three vehicle crash earlier today.Just before 11 o'clock, a cement truck, tractor trailer and car were involved in a crack up.One man was taken to hospital, and his injuries are not believed to be serious.The mounties brought down an accident reconstructionist from Moncton to examine the scene, and they are currently still on site.Traffic is moving extremely slow on the highway, as well as Rothesay Road.

President and CEO Of WorkSafeNB Responds to MLA Abel LeBlanc

President and CEO of WorksafeNB Doug Stanley is publicly addressing comments made by Lancaster MLA Abel LeBlanc that he is not doing his job.Stanley says entitlement to workers compensation benefits are determined by law and policy set out by WorksafeNB's board of directors.
He says he will not overrule a decision in favour of injured workers or employers based on political interference.
His comments come after LeBlanc publicly slammed Stanley during a news conference for injured worker Tammy Gray.

Business as Usual At Regional Health Authority B Facilities

A spokesperson for Regional Health Authority B says it's business as usual in the area in regards to medical isotopes.
Sonja Green Hache tells CHSJ News, procedures are still being conducted, and there are contingency plans in place if required.This comes after Atomic Energy of Canada reported the Chalk River reactor will be offline until the end of the year.
The reactor supplies a third of the world's medical isotopes, and early last month former health Minister Mike Murphy said if it stays down than rationalization will need to be used.

School Programs to be Reinstated

Here is some news educators across the province have been eagerly awaiting---the provincial government will be putting $2.9 million dollars towards reinstating services to school libraries and intervention programs.
Education Minister Roland Hache made the announcement after reviewing the department's budget, and consulting stakeholders.The money is coming from the Innovative Learning Fund, which Hache had put a freeze on.
The ILF will still exist, but at a budget of $1 million dollars rather than $5 million.
School districts and the department of education will be collaborating with union representatives in the coming weeks to ensure staff is in place before school opens in September.

Weston Needs More Details

[Saint John M-P Rodney Weston-----File Photo]

Even after a meeting with the Mayor, M-P Rodney Weston still wants further clarification on how the Harbour Clean Up project is in the red by $19 million dollars.Weston says he met with the Mayor yesterday and says a report from city staff is on it's way to his office.He tells CHSJ News, a particular cost is outlined under the agreement with the provincial, federal and municipal governments, and any further costs need to be explained.
The city has not requested more money from any level of government for the project, and Weston says if it's needed, he's not in a position right now to say if the feds will or will not give further funding.

Update on Highway 1 Accident

The RCMP are bringing an accident reconstructionist down from Moncton to help make sense of what happened on Highway 1 earlier this morning.Around 11 o'clock a cement truck, tractor trailer, and car were involved in an accident in front of the Dolan Road Irving service station.One man has been sent to the Regional, but his injuries are not believed to be serious. Traffic is expected to be moving slowly for most of the afternoon, as the eastbound lane is down to one.

Court Says Costs Were Unavoidable

Mayor Ivan Court says the cost of the Harbour Clean up has escalated due to unforeseeable factors.Court tells CHSJ News, over the past 4 years the price of materials has gone up nearly 24 per cent.He says the two major factors in going over budget is the cost of labour, and materials.Court says he will be giving more information today to M-P Rodney Weston about the project, and maybe possible ways to get the price tag down.
The comments come after Weston said the city is mishandling their projects, and wants to clearly understand how the project has gone $19 million dollars over budget.

Swine Flu Cases Jump to 20

There have now been 20 confirmed cases of the H1N1 swine flu virus in the province. The latest cases are two children - a boy and a girl - and a woman in her 40s from the Moncton area.

Deputy chief medical officer of health, Dr. Paul Van Buynder, says so far only one person has required hospitalization -- a woman in her 30s from northern New Brunswick ---and she is recovering. He says between 100 and 200 people from New Brunswick die each year due to the regular flu season.

Agri-Businesses Focusing on Local Markets

Atlantic Canada’s agricultural industry will need to focus on local markets in order to succeed in the future, according to a new report by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business. Report author Erin McGrath-Gaudet says the key to future growth lies in marketing goods within their local area.

She says Atlantic agri-businesses are also looking towards new niche markets that may attract a higher return-- such as crops for biofuels, organic crops and livestock.

Longshoreman Support Renaming of Park in their Honour

No objections from the Longshoreman's Association with one man's efforts to have the lower west side Market Square renamed in their honour. Business Agent, Pat Riley, tells CHSJ news the Longshoreman's Square may be the perfect name for the park and could be the right location for the old labourers bell.

Saint John resident John Campbell says longshoreman have done a lot for the West side community and deserve some recognition. City staff are researching the history behind the Market Square name and if council is able to change it.

Rothesay Road Reconstruction Already Over Budget

First it was Harbour Clean Up--with a cost over-run of nearly 20 million dollars--and now the project to reconstruct Rothesay Road is also over budget. City staff say the installation of sanitary sewer and storm sewers, along with reconstructing and paving Rothesay Road will cost 300 thousand dollars more than was planned for. Galbraith Construction has been awarded the tender for 2.8 million dollars.

300 thousand of the 400 thousand dollars set aside for the Howes Lake Landfill Closure will be used to offset the cost. Councillor Bill Farren says it's important to close the Howe's Lake Landfill and the money should not have been diverted to the Rothesay Road project.

Three Business Men to be Inducted into Business Hall of Fame

Three provincial business leaders have been named to the Junior Achievement New Brunswick Business Hall of Fame. The 2009 laureates are Glenn Cooke, the late Claude Savoie and Robert Zildjian. Cooke is the co-founder and CEO of Cooke Aquaculture in Blacks Harbour, Savoie founded Acadian Properties and established several businesses in Moncton and across the province, Zildjian founded SABIAN in 1981 in Meductic.

All three men will be officially inducted into the Hall of Fame at a gala dinner on October 20th at the Delta Beauséjour in Moncton.

Police Issue Bear Warning for West Side Residents

City Police are warning residents on the West side to watch out for bears. Sgt. Joe Ferrar tells CHSJ news there have been several sightings of a momma bear and her three large cubs over the past couple of weeks--particularly in the Montecristo Park and Gault Road areas. There have also been sightings along Ocean Westway. Ferrar says the bears are hungry and one family got a surprise last night while cooking when they saw a bear with its nose pressed up against their kitchen window.

Police are asking residents to keep all garbage and compost bins inside their homes or garages until the bears are caught using live-traps set up by the Department of Natural Resources.

Police Investigate Armed Robbery

City police are looking for one man in connection with an armed robbery last night at the Grove Lounge on Golden Grove Road. Police say one man entered the bar around 11 o'clock with a weapon and stole an undisclosed amount of money.

No one was hurt.

Quispamsis Home Goes Up in Flames

A home in Quispamsis has suffered extensive damage in a fire last night. Fire crews were called to 211 Hammond River Road just before ten o'clock. No one was home at the time except for the family dog, which was safely removed from the building.

No word on the cause of the blaze.

Gas Prices Drop

Oil prices are down 18 per cent so far this month, closing in New York yesterday at just over 60-dollars U-S a barrel. Gas prices are dropping in many Canadian cities today including Saint John. The Energy and Utilities Board has set its maximum price schedule with a litre of self-serve gasoline coming in at 99.3. Gas stations in the greater Saint John area are posting between 95.7 and 96.7 cents a litre.

Diesel fuel has also dropped to land at a maximum of 97.4, while propane is about the same as yesterday at 97.4 cents a litre.

First Hospitalization Due to Swine Flu

The Health Department is confirming the first hospitalized case of the so called swine flu in the province.This is the seventh case of the H1N1 virus announced in two days.Deputy Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Paul Van Buynder says they received confirmation that a woman in her 30's from northern New Brunswick is currently recovering in the hospital.The Health Department anticipated more severe cases would occur, and health care staff are prepared to respond appropriately.This brings the total number of cases in the province to 17.

Uptown Business Owner Reacts to Concrete Curbing

A business owner in Uptown Saint John says the citys decision to use concrete curb rather than granite curbing is hypocritical.Feel Good Store owner Anne McShane tells CHSJ News, shops need to adhere to Heritage rules when doing construction, and so should the city.
McShane says the cost saving argument doesn't really make sense, because granite lasts much longer than concrete.She says she would like to see uptown businesses revolt against the decision by adding neon signs, and vinyl windows to their shops, even though it's against the rules of Heritage buildings.

Injured Workers Advocates Seek Second Appeal Tribunal for Tammy Gray

[Injured Worker Tammy Gray at a News Conference on Wednesday- Photo By Diane Henry]

The story of Tammy Gray is once again being aired out in the media by advocates for the injured worker. The 37 year old has been left unable to walk on her own after a hospital cart fell on her while working at Fundy Linen in 2004. Worker advocate, Bob Davidson says WorkSafe NB is refusing to provide proper housing for the single parent that will allow her to safely move about her home.

The teary-eyed Gray says she has already fallen down three times in her current home on St. John Street breaking her shine bone, ankle and big toe. Davidson says he is requesting a second Appeal Tribunal and will be filing a complaint with Social Development Minister Kelly Lamrock and the Premier.

Local MLA Takes Aim at WorkSafe NB Officials

[Lancaster MLA Able LeBlanc at a News Conference Wednesday- Photo By Diane Henry]


Lancaster MLA Able LeBlanc is taking exception to what he calls the practice by WorkSafe NB to refer injured workers to the provincial welfare system in stead of providing housing for the disabled itself. LeBlanc says it is the financial responsibility of WorkSafe NB to provide services for injured workers, not taxpayers.

LeBlanc says the result is artificially low employer assessments and the President and CEO of WorkSafe NB is not doing his job. A court of appeal decision earlier this year sent the matter back to the commission partly because of LeBlanc's presence as an MLA at the tribunal.

Fight at Correctional Institution

A fight at the Atlantic Institution in Renous has sent one inmate to the hospital.Over the weekend two inmates were involved in a fight, and one inmates injuries are not believed to be serious.Correctional Service Canada will be reviewing the incident to determine what corrective measures to take.

Identity of Body in East Saint John Released

The identity of the body found in a creek in East Saint John last weekend is finally being released.The Major Crime Unit identified the man as Jaakko Lauri, who lived in the Moreland Trailer Park near where his body was found.Lauri was last seen on the 7th of June and was suffering from depression.No foul play is suspected after the body was found in a creek behind a strip mall last Saturday morning by River Valley Ground Search and Rescue.

Saint John Man Wants Market Square Re-named

Saint John resident John Campbell wants the Market Square park on the lower west side renamed in honour of the longshoreman. He tells CHSJ news they have done a lot for the community and are deserving of some recognition.

Acting City Manager Pat Woods says staff will have to do some research to determine the history behind the park name and if council is able to change the name of Market Square.

No Go for Granite Curb

The city has decided against using granite curbing for the Princess Street sidewalk repairs. City staff say the lower cost of concrete curbing will save about 235 thousand dollars which can be used for other reconstruction projects. Staff also say granite would cost more for ongoing repair and maintenance work.

Both Uptown Saint John and city resident Donna Reardon sent letters to Council in May from asking the City reconsider the decision to use concrete curb as opposed to granite curb.

Drunk Driving Charges Up 37 Per Cent

The Saint John Police Force has been cracking down on drug impaired driving in the past few months, and for good reason. Half of the front line officers on the Saint John Police Force have been trained in a new Drug Recognition Expertise program. An officer with the program says this means Saint John will have one of the only forces in the country with all front line officers trained in Drug Recognition.

Since the training, drunk driving charges are up 37 per cent. Program training is expected to be complete by the end of the fall.

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.