Rothesay Gives Owner One Month to Clean Property

Rothesay Mayor Bill Bishop is hoping changes to its unsightly premises by-law will help skirt problems like the one the town's facing with the old Dexter property. The owners broke heritage by-laws when the home at 37 Gondola Point Road was demolished--but--what Bishop is concerned about now is the fact the rubble is still on the property.

The home used to be owned by business man, Val Dexter, before he passed away in 2002, leaving it to his sister. A furnace oil leak in 2004 has left the property contaminated and the new owners decided it would be easier to tear down the house, rather than dig around it, to clean up the oil leak. Bishop says the owners have one month to clean up the rubble before tackling the soil pollution.

South End Convenience Store Robbed

One man is in custody after a robbery at Sam's Convenience Store on Carmarthen Street last night. Police say a man walked into the South End store around 9:30pm and threatened to shoot someone if he didn't get cash.

Two men believed to be involved in the robbery were later found getting out of a truck--which may have been stolen-- on King Street East. A man in his 20's was arrested, while the other man ran off. No word on charges at this point.

Police Hoping for Reports of Vehicle Theft

Police are asking West Side residents who think their vehicles may have been stolen from last night to report it to police. Officers have one man in custody for prowling and probation violation. They believe he may have been going through people's vehicles on Manawagonish Road.

Police are waiting for residents between Fairville Blvd and Manchester Avenue to report any stolen items--no matter how small.

Update-Police Nab Pair In Connection With Stabbing

Two people are due in court today after being arrested in connection with a stabbing yesterday afternoon on Duke Street near Pitt. The call came in around four o'clock and city police had two people in custody a short time later.

A 21 year old and 17 year old are facing robbery with a weapon charges and police tell CHSJ news more charges may be laid at a later date.

Paul Zed No Longer Liberal Chief of Staff

The stage is set for former M-P Paul Zed to throw his name into the next federal election.Zed wouldn't confirm if he will be running in the next election, and says it's too soon to speculate on when it will be.Zed tells CHSJ News, since stepping out of the Liberal Chief of Staff position, he is free to work on projects that are near and dear to him, such as Romero House.
Zed will be joining Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff at a breakfast at the Lily Lake Pavilion Thursday morning, where he is expected to announce his future plans for politics.

City Forestry Industry in Better Shape Than Other Regions

The forestry industry in this city is not seeing the same types of problems as areas in the Northern part of the province.President of the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers union Dave Coles tells CHSJ News, the mill in Saint John is dodging the bullet by having a more modern facility and a more sought after product than the mill in Edmundston.
Coles is speaking out as the Fraser Papers sulphite pulp mill in Edmundston continues to keep it's doors closed as negotiations continue with the union.Coles says the federal government needs to intervene in the forestry industry to help secure pension funds, and to keep people working.

Shopping Center Pros In Town

The city will be a shopping Mecca of sorts over the next couple of days -- delegates from both sides of the border are attending the annual Atlantic conference of the International Council of Shopping Centers underway at the Trade and Convention Center. Provincial director John Johnston of Eastpoint Shopping says the energy hub concept and the city's emergence as a retail destination is catching the attention of national retailers and shopping center professionals. Some of the sessions will deal with the impact of effective branding -- understanding the retail site selection and approval process -- as well as -- urbanization and waterfront redevelopment happening in the region.

More Use of Park N Ride Expected

The Park N Ride service from Saint John Transit isn't getting much traffic yet, but the General Manager expects it to come.Frank McCarey tells CHSJ News, there have been a few passengers, but the program hasn't been promoted as much as it should be.
McCarey says promotion will be increasing now that the new routes and schedules have been put in place.He says some of the lots are not even ready to be used, and hopes work will be finished on them by the fall.

Council Struggles With Pension Woes And A Quorum

Common council is looking for ways to ease the impact of a projected 150-million dollar shortfall which current legislation makes the city fully responsible for the amount.Court says provincial officials need to understand the impact on taxpayers if the city has to shoulder the full amount on its own.Meantime -- council was hard pressed to keep a meeting with its pension consultants last night. Five council members were absent -- and -- Mayor Ivan Court had to suspend the meeting temporarily when Councilor Donnie Snook left the council chamber briefly -- that left council without a quorum.

Housing Starts Off Last Month

New home construction in the greater Saint John area is off slightly compared to a year ago. Canada Mortgage and Housing reports single family housing starts down slightly last month while multiple unit construction plummeted by 84-percent compared to July of last year. Moncton is also reporting a slow down in housing starts while Fredericton is the bright spot last month actually reporting more new single family and multiple residences started than the previous year.

Town of Rothesay Pleads for Improvements at 'Hazardous' Interchange

The Town of Rothesay is emphasizing the urgent need for improvements to the interchange at Route One and Route 111. Mayor Bill Bishop says that interchange and the intersection of Route 111 with Campbell Drive near the fire station is a hazard.

Bishop has sent Transportation Minister Denis Landry a letter asking him to consider the necessary improvements. As it is now, traffic coming off of the MacKay Highway comes to a stop sign on a busy overpass. Changes to the interchange are not included in the current Atlantic Gateway project.

Curbside Recycling being Considered in Rothesay

Rothesay residents may end up with curbside pick up for their recyclables next year. Town council is considering a program similar to Fredericton's curbside program with a 'grey box' for paper and cardboard and a 'blue box' for plastic, metal and milk cartons.

Staff have been asked to prepare a detailed analysis of the cost for a curbside collection program with the view of including it in the 2010 budget.

Pedestrians Wreaking Havoc in Construction Zone

Pedestrians in the city are being blamed for dangerously distracting construction workers during the Princess Street Reconstruction Project. Municipal operations staff and on-site contractors say they are alarmed by the number of people disobeying signs and barricades to reach their destination on foot.

Sgt. Jeff LaFrance says it's not only dangerous for pedestrians, but it also puts workers at risk because they are continually distracted. The city is asking pedestrians to obey construction signs.

Merit Awards Handed out in Rothesay

(MLA Margaret Ann Blaney and Rothesay Mayor Bill Bishop hand Barry Ogden his New Brunswick Day Merit Award--photo by Diane Henry)

The Town of Rothesay handed out this years New Brunswick Day Merit Awards last night. The recipients are Barry Ogden, Elizabeth Reid, Phil Broderson, former councilor and Deputy Mayor Bill Artiss, the Big Rothesay Read event that took place earlier this year and Rothesay Netherwood School.

The awards recognize deserving citizens for their service, support and dedication to the community and making it a better place to live.

Rothesay Fire Department Tries to Solve Mysterious Fires

[Fire Chief Larry Greer presenting findings of investigation into two of three fires to Rothesay town council---Photo by Diane Henry]

There are still unanswered questions surrounding three unusual fires in the Rothesay neighbourhood of Dunedin last spring. Homes at 5 Dunedin, 20 Dunedin and 4 Newport all went up in flames within an hour and a half of each other on April 7th. Fire Chief Larry Greer says after a four-month investigation they still haven't determined the cause--although it appears to be electrical.

NB Power officials have said there were no power surges in the neighbourhood that day. However, Greer says the ground itself in the area appears to act as a conductor of electricity.

Residents Left with Unanswered Questions About Spring Fires

A group of residents in the Dunedin neighbourhood remain fearful their homes are in danger of going up in flames. Jeff Legge says he is disappointed the cause of the electrical fires is still unknown.

Residents crowded into Rothesay Town Hall last night hoping to learn more about the fires in their neighbourhood last spring. Legge says if the fire department can't give them answers, a group of neighbourhood residents will hire their own investigators.

Town Officials Want More Info on Spring Fires

Deputy Mayor Blair MacDonald tells CHSJ news they won't give up on getting more information surrounding the fires.

Mayor Bill Bishop says it's unfortunate the fire department hasn't determined the cause of the three blazes, but adds that is not the result of inaction on their part.

Rothesay Recreation Master Plan Approved

Rothesay Town Council has formally approved a proposed Recreation Master plan. Council unanimously accepted the plan by ADI Architecture last night to address the recreation needs in Rothesay.

The report says town officials should concentrate on a field house, improving and building more walking trails, and the construction of a new arena--or--renovations to the existing one. The complete Recreation Master Plan will be available on the town's website by tomorrow.

"Open Or Closed" - Remains The Question

(Mayor Ivan Court prefers a closed door meeting - file photo)

The question remains unanswered if council will meet with its employee and retirees groups in open session to discuss ways of dealing with the pension deficit. Mayor Ivan Court remains on the record preferring a closed door session saying that's the only forum for the frank discussion required.Council passed a motion last month to begin the meeting in open session but leaving the option open to move to closed session if that's what is desired -- no date has been set for the meeting.

Pension Struggle Continues At City Hall

Council is inching ever so slowly to arriving at some decisions to deal with the 150-million dollar shortfall in the civic pension fund. And the actual financial impact could mean the city will contribute more than 20-percent of the payroll to fund that deficit -- something Councilor Bill Farren says means one of two things -- a tax increase or a cut in the level of services provided by the city in order to cover the shortfall over a fifteen year period.Council is asking for a report from the Finance Commissioner to see if those levels are feasible -- the pension board is also being asked to provide updated financial information to consultants Morneau Sobeco so they can update projections associated with a series of suggestions to deal with the deficit.

City Transit Changes Moving Along Smoothly

With the new Saint John transit routes and schedules going into effect yesterday, today was the big test for frequent passengers.General Manager Frank McCarey tells CHSJ News, there were a few concerns from passengers, but nothing major.
McCarey says it's always difficult with initial changes, and that is why they are done so infrequently.He says the main concern from passengers was not knowing about the changes, and since they service about 12 thousand people a day, it's hard to get the message out to everyone.

Funding Coming To Hampton

A funding announcement for the town of Hampton is taking place this evening.Fundy Royal M-P Rob Moore, and Tourism Minister Stuart Jamieson will be joining Mayor Ken Chorley for the presentation.Things gets underway at 7:30 at the Lighthouse River Centre in Hampton.

The Mayor Gets Involved With ParticipAction

[Mayor Court Nordic Walking At the Boardwalk----Photo By Dave Briggs]

Mayor Ivan Court is getting a lesson in active living at the boardwalk.Court is participating in a Nordic walk demonstration as a part of the ParticipAction campaign.Court tells CHSJ News, everyone should try and make it down to the event to share their stories by recording a video.
Court says ParticipAction was popular in the 80's in Saint John, and it's important to spread the message of active living and getting young people out to take advantage of places like Rockwood and Shamrock Park.

ParticipAction At the Boardwalk

[ParticipAction Display at the Boardwalk-----Photo by Dave Briggs]


A national campaign to get people more active is making a stop in the Port City today.


ParticipAction Spokesperson Steve Fransblow tells CHSJ News, the campaign's message is simple----trying to get more people to live an active and healthy life.
Until six o'clock people can head down to the boardwalk and record a video telling the ParticipAction people how they have incorporated more physical activity into their lives.Each video can be sent to family and friends, and will also be considered to be used in a national television ad campaign.

Anti-LNG Group To Hold Annual Meeting in St. Andrews

The Save Passamaquoddy Bay group is holding it's annual general meeting later this month to discuss what's next for the DownEast LNG projects.Spokesperson Jessie Davies tells CHSJ News, all three proposals involve building an LNG terminal on the Maine side of the bay and transporting product by tankers through the Passamquoddy Bay and Head Harbour.
Davies says the provincial government has been behind the group since the beginning, and has even intervened in the legal process with DownEast LNG.The meeting takes place on August 18th, at 7:30 at the Anglican Church on King Street in St. Andrews.

City Launches New Interactive Zoning Map

If you've ever wondered what the zoning is in your neighborhood and what land uses are permitted you can now find out on the city's website. A current interactive map is available with a variety of options--from aerial photos to the new Zoning Map of municipalities across North America. Commissioner of Planning and Development, Ken Forrest, tells CHSJ news the website is designed to help people learn about their neighbourhood.

The City previously released the maps as PDFs on CD-Rom but were out-of-date shortly after they left City Hall. For more information head to www.saintjohn.ca/services_maps.cfm

New Methadone Clinic Officially Opens

A new methadone clinic has officially opened its doors today at the St. Joseph's Community Health Centre. It's hoped the new clinic for drug addicts will alleviate the wait list at the Ridgewood Addictions Services Centre, where 163 people are already participating in methadone treatment.

At last count, the Department of Health said 93 people were on the waiting list.

City's Troubled Pension Plan Up for Discussion Tonight

Advisors from Morneau Sobeco will be proposing a new plan of action for the city's Pension Plan at tonight's Committee of the Whole meeting. The current plan is facing $150 million of unfunded pension liability, and if not amended could be run dry in as little as 30 years. The council meeting will be held tonight at 6:00 o'clock.

Shedding Light on Mental Illness

Recent studies show one in five Canadians have a mental health concern and the Canadian Mental Health Association is hoping to shed more light on the issue. Assistant Executive Director, Anita Connolly tells CHSJ news there are many people who remain quiet about mental illness because the topic is often considered taboo.

There is often fear around things people don't understand. Connolly says those suffering mental illness should talk about it with friends and family to help bridge the educational gap.

Local Senator Named Patron of Addiction and Gambling Centre

Senator John Wallace is hoping to help youth in Saint John who are suffering from Substance Abuse and addiction. PASAGE, an education center located in the city, has recently appointed the senator to be the patron of their organization. Wallace tells CHSJ news he realizes the importance of the center and is honoured to help.

Senator Wallace says he looks forward to beginning work with the center sometime in the near future.

National Tour Hopes to Get Saint John Moving

The city's boardwalk will be busy today as the “Inspire the nation” tour encourages people to get up and get moving. The tour is visiting 31 communities in the country with ideas on how to make fitness part of everyday life. The not-for-profit organization ParticipACTION and Sun Life Financial are sponsoring the tour which wraps up August 27th.

They’re hoping to stem what they call a crisis caused by a lack of activity among millions of Canadians. They’ll be set up on the boardwalk from noon until six and will be joined by the Saint John YMCA, along with the City's Leisure Services and Rockwood Park's Daytripping.

Terry Fox Run Coming Up Fast

Runners better start hitting the pavement soon-----the annual Terry Fox Foundation Run is a month away.Spokesperson Onne De Boer tells CHSJ news, it's going to be hard to raise the kind of money the foundation has in the past because of the economy.He says the event couldn't happen without the help of the volunteers.

Saint John's run is on September 13th with registration beginning at noon at Rockwood Park.For further information on the Terry Fox Foundation Run check out http://www.terryfox.org/

Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Bust

A traffic stop on Rothesay Avenue gave the police more than they bargained for.City police pulled a vehicle over around 8 o'clock last night and found drugs and weapon.A man will be in front of a judge this morning facing charges of drug possession, drug trafficking and possession of a dangerous weapon.

Nursing Home Fire

A fire at a North End nursing home is the cause of a brief evacuation.Emergency crews responded to the call last night at the Rocmaura Nursing Home.The Fire Department determined the fire started by an electrical box malfunction in the basement. No one was injured.

Woman Sent to Hospital After Accident

One woman is in the hospital after an accident in Little Lepreau this morning.Around 6 the Musquash fire department responded to a call of a vehicle going off the road and hitting a tree.She was treated on the scene by emergency crews, and the injuries are not believed to be serious.

Local Group Prepares For H1N1

Local emergency management organizations are making plans to deal with any major outbreak of the H-1-N-1 flu this fall. Brian Shanks of the Ken Valley E-M-O group tells CHSJ News they're planning a series of public information sessions to talk about things like the impact of the flu on home life.
Shanks says more details will be available within a couple of weeks regarding the information sessions. Public health officials predict absenteeism rates could hit as high as 25-percent if the so called "swine flu" pandemic outbreak gains a foothold in the province this fall and winter.

New City Transit Routes

New bus routes and schedules go into effect today.Saint John Transit would like to remind bus patrons that many route numbers will be changing, and to help ease into the transition all schedules will be colour coded for easy reference.There will be six groups----Main Routes, Westside, North and South, East side, and Comex.To find the link to the new routes and schedules click here.

Run For the Cure Changes Location

CIBC's 9th annual Run for the Cure will be in a new location this fall. The run will take place October 4th and will be held at the Marco Polo Center along the waterfront. The event has raised over 2 million dollars in the past thanks to the generosity of those in the greater Saitn John area. Run Director Sue Delong says she is excited about the change in venue and is anticipating this year’s event will be larger than ever.

Biking For Mental Illness

One man will bike his way through Saint John Tuesday as part of a bicycle campaign to raise awareness about Mental Health. Mel Thompson has biked all the way from Vancouver after learning that his daughter Lindsay was diagnosed with Schizophrenia. Anita Connolly with the Canadian Mental Health Association tells CHSJ news Thompson will be presented with a cheque for 16 thousand dollars.
Thompson is hoping to educate people about mental health and raise money to improve treatment as he bikes all the way to St. John's, Newfoundland.

A New Face with Saint John Port Authority

Edward Mclean is joining the Board of Directors with the Saint John Port Authority. McLean was the president of Connors Brothers Limited before retiring in 2004.In 2005 he was inducted into the New Brunswick Business Hall of Fame.Chairman of the Board Stephen Campbell says McLeans impressive background in business will be a welcome addition to the board.

Ministers Island Looking for Partner

A St. Andrews historical site is looking for partners to help sustain operations.Minister's Island is looking for a partner in helping preserve the 500 acre spot like it was almost a 100 years ago when Sir William Van Horne made it his summer estate.Managing Director Gerald McEachern tells CHSJ News, they are looking to put a 21st century twist on the island, but nothing that doesn't fit a few guidelines.
McEachern says partnerships are needed on the island, because tourism revenues are not generating enough to sustain the property.He says there were originally 22 buildings on the island in Van Hornes time, and there are only 11 left.

Romero House Keeps Staff

Never one to back down from a challenge, former Saint John M-P Paul Zed says the doors are staying open at Romero House.Zed is the chairman of the Finance committee for the soup kitchen, and he tells CHSJ News, the commitment everyone has shown to Romero House has been overwhelming.
Today was the day Romero House was supposed to cut it's staff due to financial difficulties, but Zed says there are over 100 volunteers working and 8 permanent staff.
Zed says an celebration event is in the works for the end of the month, and says the amount of businesses and organizations getting involved to show their support is impressive.

Education Cuts This Fall

With 24 million dollars being cut from education for the upcoming school year, changes are underway in school districts across the province. Cut backs include student busing and staff lay offs that involve teaching assistants, intervention workers and library assistants.
Opposition Education Critic Claude Landry tells CHSJ News the governments treatment of the staff who received lay off notices is disgraceful.

Van Burnt in St. Stephen

Add another burnt vehicle to the list in St. Stephen.A tip to our newsroom tells us several stop signs were damaged, and a van was set on fire.RCMP confirm a van was burned, and an investigation is underway.
No word on if there is any connection to the 13 cars destroyed at a garage early last month.

More Federal - Provincial Funding About To Flow

Look for a good news announcement soon regarding some funding to help the city begin upgrades to its water treatment system. Saint John Conservative M-P Rodney Weston tells CHSJ News he expects to be making an announcement within days. Weston also tells us a deal is close to being finalized which will see federal-provincial funding for a six million dollar upgrade of the Canada Games Stadium.

Hampton Community in Blooms Competition

The town of Hampton is trying to earn bragging rights as residents prepare for the judges of the International Communities in Bloom competition.Laurie Mills tells CHSJ News, it would be great if residents between now and Sunday can do some tidying up before the judges get here.
Mills says Hampton won the national competition in 2007, and says the town has a shot at winning the International title.The public is invited to attend the judges’ reception on Monday evening at 7:30 at the River Center in Hampton.

Mayor Thinks Harbour Cleanup Cost Overrun May Be Less

(Mayor Ivan Court - file photo)


Mayor Ivan Court thinks the projected 20-million dollar overrun for the harbour cleanup project may end up being reduced. Court says things have changed in the marketplace with the shelving of Irving Oil's proposed second refinery -- so -- he thinks contractors will be a little sharper with their pencils than originally when it seemed like a number of major projects were on the books.The mayor says the city remains on track for meeting its target of treating all of East Saint John's sewerage -- meantime -- Tim Vickers of the Atlantic Coastal Action Program says it doesn't make sense to push for other projects until this one is completed.The original cost of the harbour cleanup project was pegged at 88-million dollars with completion set for 2012.

Animal Cruelty Charges Delayed

RCMP are waiting on the crown prosecutor before animal cruelty charges will be laid against two men in St. Stephen. They are accused of leaving a large dog in a parked vehicle overnight last May when they crossed over to the U-S. The dog died after suffering from excessive heat and lack of food and water.

The two were scheduled to appear in St. Stephen court last Tuesday but RCMP did not receive the Necropsy report until the day before the court appearance. The file still needs to be reviewed and approved by the Crown Prosecutor before charges can be laid. No court date has been set.

City's Jobless Rate Remains Steady

Saint John remains a bright spot in Atlantic Canada as far as the jobless rate is concerned. Stats-Canada reports our unemployment rate remained at five percent between June and July -- that's lower than Halifax and St John's. It's also lower than the national rate which also remained unchanged at 8.6-percent last month. The provincial rate inched up slightly to 9.4-percent last month from 9.2 in June.

Job Stats Improving

The number of job listings being advertised in this country is below where it was a year ago. President of Career AIM David Forster tells CHSJ News, the rate is 3 per cent higher than last month, but still lags behind last years number by 17 per cent. Forster says these stats prove we are starting to see the economy recover.

Right now there are just over 5000 job postings for New Brunswick, down by nearly a thousand a month ago.

Passenger Train Rides Announced for Dragon Boat Festival

The St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation is celebrating the 5th anniversary of the Saint John Dragon Boat festival on August 29th with the Dragon Boat Express. NB Southern Railway will run a passenger train between Harbour Station and the festival site on James Renforth Drive.
Return trips will be offered throughout the day of the event for 10 dollars per person--with all proceeds going directly to the Hospital Foundation's Wellness Garden Fundraising Project. For more information visit www.sjdragonboat.ca or contact St. Joseph's Hospital Foundation 632-5497

Busy Morning for City Police

One man is facing charges after police found him rifling through a jeep early this morning on Main Street in the North End. He was arrested and will be charged with attempted robbery. There have been a number of thefts from vehicles in the city recently.

Meanwhile, police are looking for the driver of a Ford Ranger that crashed into a couple of houses around 3:30 this morning in the South End. Homes on Pitt and Leinster Streets were struck by the truck, which was later found empty. And a man in his 40's is facing a charge for refusing to take a breathalyser after drive-thru workers at a McDonald's called police. They say the man was driving drunk when he had a snack attack last night.

Minister Getting Full Marks For New Regulations

The federal environment minister is getting applause from the executive director of the Atlantic Coastal Action Program. Tim Vickers says the minister's commitment to strict enforcement of the new regulations is welcomed news -- he says a lot of people will be relieved to find out there is a watchdog making sure people are following the laws and doing what they're supposed to do.Meantime -- Mayor Ivan Court says he's is pleased to hear the minister indicate there will be some financial assistance to help municipalities upgrade treatment plants to meet the new guidelines.

Feds Rolling Out New Waste Water Treatment Standards

(Federal Environment Minister Jim Prentice speaking to reporters following Board of Trade speech - photo by Gary MacDonald)

The federal government is rolling out new national standards for waste water treatment. Federal Environment Minister Jim Prentice made the announcement during a noon hour speech to the Board of Trade -- and -- he says those regulations will be backed by enforcement.Prentice says the new regulations should be in place by some time next year -- and -- he says the federal government is also making low cost infrastructure loans available to cash strapped municipalities to help with upgrades to meet the new standards.

Update on H1-N1 Virus

[Dr. Eilish Cleary, and Heather MacLean with NB Power Giving H1N1 Update----Photo Courtesy of GNB]


It seems the amount of the so called swine flu cases in the province is starting to tailor off.Chief Medical officer of Health Dr. Eilish Cleary says there was an upsurge of cases over the past number of weeks, but this weeks the numbers are showing a decline.Dr. Cleary says like any influenza strain---once the virus is present in a community, people develop immunity to it.
Cleary says when a particular virus is circulating people become immune to it, which is why there are so many cases of a new virus, such as the H1-N1.So far only three people have been hospitalized in New Brunswick, and there have been no deaths.

Maple Leaf Weiners Recalled

The Department of Health is warning the public certain brands of Maple Leaf, Shopsy's and Hygrade wieners may be contaminated with the listeria bacteria.The company has voluntarily recalled the products, and people are advised to check their fridges and freezers for affected products.Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Eilish Cleary says there have been no reported cases of listeriosis in the province as a result of these products, and the Department of Health will monitor for new cases.

For a list of recalled products check out the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's Website here.

Two Inmates Sent to Hospital After Fight

Two inmates from the Atlantic Institution are back from a visit to the hospital after a fight last night.Both inmates were taken to the nearest health care facility, but their injuries were not serious so they have returned to the institution.Staff at the facility in Renous are reviewing the incident to determine if corrective action needs to be taken.

More Praise For Maine Increasing Truck Weight Restrictions

First it was the Saint John Board of Trade, now members of Access Atlantica-The Northeast Trade Corridor are applauding the state of Maine for a possible one year pilot program increasing weight restrictions on cargo trucks.Spokesperson Nancy Thorne tells CHSJ News, having the weight restriction in Maine increase to 100 thousand pounds like it is here in New Brunswick would cut down on travel time for drivers.
She says right now drivers have to travel through Quebec, and down through Detroit to get to the Southern United States.
Thorne says not only from a financial standpoint, having trucks be able to travel through Maine with 100 thousand pounds of cargo would help decrease the environmental impact.

Look Out For Algal Blooms

The Health Department is warning people to be aware of the health risks posed by algal blooms in lakes and other water.Keep in mind if the water looks different than usual, it's best to avoid it.Swimmers are urged to avoid discoloured areas of water, as well as areas that appear to have a thick, blue or green plaint like scum.When present in the water, these blooms may cause skin, eye or throat irritation, and for more information, click here.

Provincial and Federal Government Helping out Water Projects

The provincial and federal governments are in a giving mood today handing over nearly $7 million dollars to New Brunswick water system projects.Edmundston is receiving $1.6 million dollars from each government for infrastructure relating to upgrading water and wastewater systems, and Clair is getting $2.3 million for the same.The projects are expecting to enhance the local facilities, as well as create jobs.
Meanwhile, three Madawaska communities are getting a $1.3 million dollar shot in the arm from the province and feds to upgrade drinking water and wastewater collection systems.

Province Sitting on Energy Gold Mine

Energy Minister Jack Keir is driving home the importance of diversifying energy generation in the province. He tells CHSJ News having tidal, nuclear, wind, and potentially natural gas generated electricity will create a huge advantage for not only Saint John--but--the entire province. Keir says New Brunswick is sitting next to the largest energy demanding market in North America--the New England States.

As for a second reactor at Point Lepreau, Keir says there would be a benefit for rate payers in the province. He says the province will only move on that project and sell the power to the Southeastern United States if it can get a strong rate of return.

Federal Government Announces One Million Dollars for Arts

The federal government has announced one million dollars in funding for 52 arts, culture, and heritage organizations in the province today. Just over $23,000 of which has been allocated to Saint John and St. George for the Saint John Theatre on the Edge Festival, Saltyjam Festival and Granite Town Festival.

Thirty-two hundred dollars has also been given to the Queens County Historical Society & Museum in Gagetown for Life at the Lakes 2009.

Gas Prices Inch Up

Gas prices are creeping up above the dollar mark this morning. The Energy and Utilities Board has set the maximum price schedule for the province this week and the total maximum price for regular self-serve gasoline is a dollar-two. Yesterday is was 99.1 cents a litre.

Diesel fuel is about the same at 98.8 cents a litre and propane hasn't moved an inch still coming in at 93.2 cents.

Medical Teams Prepare for AC/DC Concert

Anyone making the trek to Moncton this evening to see AC/DC shouldn't worry about medical services. Regional Health Authority B will be sending a team to take care of all medical needs.A primary emergency medical building, along with two tents will be positioned on the perimeter of the site, which will provide a spacious, less noisy, dry, well equipped space for medical treatment. Paramedics will also be patrolling the crowd at Magnetic Hill to help people with minor injuries or illness.

The Health Authority is also providing a list of tips for those about to rock:

Monitor the weather forecast closely and plan accordingly, but remember this is the Maritimes and the weather can change quickly and drastically.

Prepare for both hot and cooler temperatures, and rainy weather. Bring layers of clothing that provides good insulation and keeps moisture away from the skin.

Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration can occur quickly in hot and humid weather. Each concert goer can bring a 1 Litre of bottle of water into the concert but remember to bring fluids to drink while waiting for the gates to open.

Protect yourself from sun exposure by wearing a hat, sunglasses and applying sunscreen regularly. Wear light-coloured, breathable clothing and move into the shade when possible.

Wear comfortable shoes as concert goers will be walking and standing for long periods of time. Also consider the terrain you will be walking on at the site.

Use common sense, listen to your body and respond appropriately. Drink responsibly and prepare for a safe ride home.

Remember to assign a meeting spot with your group early on to ensure no one gets lost during or at the end of the concert. Remember to eat to avoid becoming weak. And most importantly have fun!

Man Arrested In Connection to Attempted Armed Robbery

A man will be spending some time at the Saint John Regional Correctional Centre after being in front of a judge today in relation to an attempted armed robbery.The 27 year old was arrested yesterday in connection with the attempted armed robbery at Fundy Heights Convenience Store on the West Side.His next court appearance is on August 24th, and city police expect several more charges to be laid in relation to the series of robberies over the past four weeks.

Council Moves To Change Employment Terms For Senior Manager

Common council is moving to change the way it compensates senior management -- specifically the city manager. Council has rescinded a 2002 motion which gave the city manager a special pension top up. And council is asking the province to amend the municipalities act so it can set the term of employment for senior management types. Mayor Ivan Court says the rescinding the pension motion won't have any impact on former city manager Terry Totten's deal -- but -- he says both moves will allow the city to begin with a clean slate in negotiating for Totten's replacement.

City Police Say Bones Are Likely Old

City Police says finding bones in the St. Peter's Church area is something that has happened before. Police tell us, bones found at a construction site near the church in the North End are most likely old bones that have been disturbed by construction. The police and coroners office are still investigating to confirm the bones are indeed, old.

Resident Unhappy How Discovering the Bones Was Handled

While walking past the St. Peters Church last night, Linda Negus noticed the bones sticking out from the earth.Negus tells CHSJ News, it's disgusting that construction crews continued to work even after finding the remains.Negus is angry at the fact no one was told about these bones being found.
She says once the bones were found work should have stopped immediately, and maybe the sewerage lines being installed should be moved.

Council Throws LBR Financial Lifeline

A decision by common council will lead to a little more red ink at the end of the current budget year. Council is coming to the rescue of the Lord Beaverbrook Rink's board of directors with a 50-thousand dollar lifeline. The board says it's come up short in finances thanks to unexpected repairs to the cooling pipes in the floor which also meant lost revenue while the rink was closed. Acting city manager Pat Woods says the money wasn't included in this year's budget -- already city finance commissioner Greg Yeoman's is predicting the city will end the year about 300-thousand dollars in the red.

Bones Found in the North End

[Human bones unearthed during construction near St Peters church in the North End – photo by Gary MacDonald]

A startling discovery at a construction site on the North End near St. Peters Church. Construction crews working with sewage pipes in the area discovered bones. A representative with the Deptartment of Public Safety confirms that the bones are human, and that the police are investigating with the assistance of the coroners office.

NB Power Reacts to Conservation Council

An NB Power spokesperson tells CHSJ News, the inspection process at Point Lepreau is just getting started.
Heather Maclean tells us once the process is complete it will be sent away to the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission.
The results should be made public in September.

Conservation Council Wants Point Lepreau Safety Inspection Results Released

The Conservation Council of New Brunswick is urging NB Power and the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission to release the results of the safety inspection done at the Point Lepreau nuclear power plant.Executive Director David Coon tells CHSJ News, the results need to be made public to ensure accountability, and maintain public confidence.Coon says the condition of the welding work keeping the housing together is a major concern.
Coon says at a public hearing into the Lepreau Refurbishment, former Vice President of NB Power Nuclear Rod White described the discovery of faults in the reactor welds as a "show stopper" for the refurbishment.

Emergency Officials - "Be Prepared!"

(Bill Lawlor of Red Cross suggesting we be prepared for a 72-hour period - photo by Paul McLaughlin)


Emergency preparedness organizations are reminding you to make sure you are prepared for the onslaught of a tropical storm - hurricane - or other disasters. Red Cross spokesman Bill Lawlor tells CHSJ News we should have a kit comprising of water - non-perishable food - medications - batteries - radios - and so on to help get through the first 72-hours in the aftermath of the disaster.More information on preparing an emergency kit can be found at http://www.redcross.ca/article.asp?id=17537&tid=025

Small Business Optimism Down in Province

The Canadian Federation of Independent Business report on the small business optimism for July is in. Business in New Brunswick rings in at 62.5, which is down from 66.4 in June. 45 percent of small business owners in the province say business is good, and 38 per cent say it is satisfactory. Business optimism in this province is now the second highest in Canada, only just trailing behind Saskatchewan.

Man Robbed and Truck Stolen Right off the Road

A man from Ontario got quite the shock last night around ten o'clock when another man jumped into his pickup truck while stopped at a stop sign here in the city. The driver was at the intersection of Duke and Charlotte streets when the man held a knife to his throat and made him drive down Highway One.

Police tell CHSJ news the man stole a small amount of money from the driver and told him to get out of the truck near the Harbour Bridge toll booths. The victim walked to the Tim Hortons on King Street West and called police. His truck has not been recovered and while the man was shaken, he was not hurt.

Car Crash Saves Man's Life

A car crash yesterday evening on Paradise Row could be considered a life-saving event. Saint John police tell CHSJ news a man whose heart appears to have stopped beating--causing him to black out and crash--was brought back to life when his chest hit the stirring wheel upon impact.
The vehicle hit a fire hydrant and lamp post, throwing the man forward and "jump-starting his heart". Police say he is recovering in hospital.

Moratorium Covers All Sandy Point Road Development

It was confusing at times -- but -- when the vote was taken -- a moratorium on development along Sandy Point Road adjacent to Rockwood Park remains in place. City staffers were looking for clarification on if the moratorium covered all development in the area -- councilor Patty Higgins made the original motion and she was quick to offer -- yes!But council has approved a motion by councilor Gary Sullivan asking staff for a report on options for looking at the planning process and public consultation required for future development in the area while the city's municipal plan is undergoing an update.

"A Blow For The West Side"

He's calling it a terrible day -- but -- West Business Association president Owen Boyle is vowing to keep working to make the Business Improvement Area and levy a reality over west. Boyle tells CHSJ News there's something out of whack with the numbers documented by the common clerk's office. He says the proposal has been controversial because of misinformation being spread around about the business improvement tax -- but -- he's vowing to keep the proposal alive.

Setback For West Side Business Improvement Area and Levy

A bid to establish a west side Business Improvement Area and levy has hit a brick wall. Council accepted a report from the common clerk's office indicating almost 35-percent of businesses opposed the idea -- and -- that's enough under provincial legislation to kill the proposal. Mayor Ivan Court says the clerk's office did a thorough review and polling of business owners in the proposed area. Court says the West Side Business Association will have to wait a year before bringing the proposal back to council.

Stompin' Tom Gets His Day

(Saint John native Stompin' Tom at Harbour Station Saturday night - file photo)

Stompin' Tom is getting some recognition from council -- the city has declared Saturday as the first annual Stompin' Tom day. The city native will be performing at Harbour Station on Saturday -- council drew some criticism late last month when it rejected a request to temporarily rename the pedway between Brunswick Square and City Hall Stompin' Tom way. And Mayor Ivan Court has also proclaimed August 9th through the 15th as Pride Festival week.

Council Quietly Rejects Request By Three Real Estate Agents

A bid by three real estate agents to have council reconsider the former Downey property on Crown Street for the new police station has been politely dismissed by councilors. The letter from the Remax agents suggesting the property was part of the consent agenda for last night's council meeting -- council approved that part of the agenda so the letter was received and filed. No one around the table commented on the letter.

Order of New Brunswick Recipients

The next time you see Thomas Condon remember to congratulate him on receiving the Order of New Brunswick.The former president of the University of New Brunswick Saint John campus is one of 10 recipients of the honour announced by Premier Shawn Graham.This years winners will receive the Order of New Brunswick at the Government House in Fredericton this fall, and brings the total amount of members to 78.
A complete list of winners can be found here.

Board of Trade Excited About Maine Increasing Truck Weight Restrictions

The state of Maine is considering increasing the weight restrictions on trucks travelling on Interstate 95 to 100 thousand pounds from 80 thousand.Saint John Board of Trade President Imelda Gilman says it's an exciting possibility for local companies.She tells CHSJ News, the restrictions make shipping to southern U.S. more expensive than it should be.
Gilman says currently trucks travelling from the city to the U.S. have to drive around Maine because of the weight restrictions.She says she hopes Congress puts this into effect this fall.

Mayor Court says Site Was Already Considered

[Mayor Ivan Court-----File Photo]


Mayor Ivan Court tells CHSJ News, the former Downey Motors site is not on the drawing board for proposed Police Headquarters heading North of Union.
Court says the site was already considered when the location of the new police headquarters was being decided.
Court says the city is in negotiations with the province on a co-location which will result in millions of dollars of construction cost savings.

Business Owner Weighs In on B-I-A Denial

A west side business owner says if the numbers of opposition are there, then the Business Improvement Area and Levy should be denied by common council.Colour Centre owner Dorothy Shepard tells CHSJ News, if the number of owners opposing the B-I-A is really one third of those paying into the levy, the Westside Business Association should look at another avenue.
Shepard says she is on record of opposing the levy because she would like to see exactly how the money will be spent.
She says she'd also like something more concrete which would prevent the tax from increasing significantly down the road.
Shepard says she will try and attend tonight's council meeting, where the Common Clerk is advising council to deny the proposal.

Update on Drownings

Two more drownings being reported over the weekend, this time in Cambridge Narrows and Scotchtown.RCMP responded to a call around 4:30pm at Waterside Drive in Cambridge Narrows where it appeared an elderly man had drowned.CPR was performed on the 79 year old, but he died at the scene.
Then, just before 6 o'clock on the Scotchtown Road RCMP received a call about a man struggling while swimming.CPR was performed on the 44 year old man from Stanley, but he also died before reaching the hospital.
RCMP do not suspect foul play in either of the incidents.

Minimum Wage To Increase Again Next Month

The second increase of 25 cents to minimum wage in the province is going into effect on September 1st.Back in April the first increase took place taking minimum wage from $7.75 to $8 dollars.At the $8.25 wage people working 40 hours a week are expected to earn $330 dollars a week, up from $268 in 2006.

Suggestion For Alternate Police Headquarters Site

A Saint John real estate broker says the city's proposed site for a new police headquarters poses a safety risk for pedestrians. Hodges Hamm tells CHSJ News the construction of a new building at Peel Plaza will lead to increased traffic in the area--especially if satellite police offices are closed. He says the former Downey Motors building at the corner of Crown Street and Rothesay Avenue would have easier access to major streets and the highway.
The former Downey Motors building has about 32 thousand square feet to work with and would cost 3.2 million dollars.

Two More Drownings Over the Weekend

Two more drownings are being reported over the weekend--this time in Cambridge-Narrows and Chipman. A man reportedly drowned after falling out of a boat while on the Washademoak Lake Saturday. No details on either of the incidents have been released.
A 39 year old man also drowned while swimming at Fisher Lake in Rockwood Park on Saturday. Lifeguards were able to get to the man after noticing him struggling in the water but he was pronounced dead upon arrival at the Regional Hospital. No name has been released.

Life Saving Society Warns About Water Safety

The Lifesaving Society of New Brunswick says drowning still claims almost 500 lives a year in Canada. Executive Director, Elizabeth Lamothe, says the majority of drownings in this province are related to boating and swimming in unsupervised areas. She also says natural waters like lakes and rivers provide the greatest danger because of currents.
It's still not clear what happened to the man who drowned in Rockwood Park, but Lamothe says it appears he was swimming outside of the designated and supervised swimming area.

Weather In July Broke Previous Record

If it seemed much wetter than usual last month that's because it was. Saint John beat a previous record set in 1979 for the most rainfall in the month of July. The port city received 194.7 millimetres of rain last month--beating the old record of 193.3. The normal amount of precipitation for July is only 101.5 millimetres.
Environment Canada Meteorologist, Linda Libby tells CHSJ news Saint John, Fredericton and St. Leonard all had much higher than normal amounts of rain last month. But sunshine may be on the way for this month. Libby says the short term forecast for August is looking a little drier.

Summer Theatre Festival To Get Underway

Saint John's summer theatre festival kicks off tomorrow with Theatre on the Edge. Executive Director of the Saint John Theatre Company, Stephen Tobias, tells CHSJ news they are expecting about 800 to one thousand people during the 12-day festival.

The theatre company recently completed major renovations to their new building on Princess Street, which will house the entire festival. This year's Theatre on the Edge will include "Shakespeare in the Parking Lot", dance workshops, a performance by comedienne Diane Flacks about the trials of raising children in a two-mom family, and random one-act plays.

Construction Set to Begin on Rothesay Road

Galbraith Construction crews will begin the installation of sanitary and storm sewers along Rothesay Road today. Traffic disruptions and delays are expected during the construction period which will last until November. One lane will be open with traffic moving in both directions from 7 am to 9 am but after nine in the morning and on the weekend traffic will move in the Eastern direction only. The 2.8 million dollar project will include reconstructing and paving the road and expected to be finished by November 6th.

Council to Be Updated on Flood Water Diversion Plan

Common council will receive an update on the status of the Marsh Creek Storm water Diversion project at tonight's meeting. The project has $400 thousand dollars approved in this years city budget, which will go towards designing the system that will collect excess storm water before it enters Marsh Creek and divert it to an outfall at Drury Cove.

Terrain Group will carry out the preliminary design and the cost benefit analysis on the $18 million dollar project. A public consultation will be held August 12th at Exhibition Park.

West Side Business Association Fights for Levy

The Saint John West Business Association is appealing to common council to table a staff recommendation that the West side Business Improvement Area be scrapped. In a report included in tonight's council kit, the city's common clerk is recommending council deny the proposed BIA levy. Elizabeth Gormley says after reviewing letters of objection's it turns out 34.6 per cent of non-residential users are opposed to the BIA.

Business Association Spokesperson, Blaine Harris says two of the letters received from hotels on the Golden Mile were signed by managers and not the owners. He says after contacting both owners it was clear neither objected to the proposed BIA. Harris has sent an email to councilors asking them to table the item until the Clerk can meet with the Business Association to formally review the objections together.

Real Estate Brokers Offer up Alternative Space for New Police Headquarters

Three real estate brokers are trying to get common council to consider the former Downey Motors Building as the site for the proposed police headquarters.David Maxwell, Dave O'Brien and Hodges Hamm will present the $3.2 million dollar site, which they consider a prime spot for a police headquarters because of it's access to major streets and the highway.The building on the corner of Crown Street and Rothesay Avenue is approximately $32 thousand square feet.This topic is up for discussion at tonight's council meeting getting underway at 6 o'clock in the council chambers.

New Licence Plates Available Tomorrow

[Business Minister Victor Boudreau with a new plate-----Photo courtesy of GNB]


Some vehicles around the province will take on a new look this month. The Province has unveiled a newly designed licence plate which will become available tomorrow. Conservation plates with three new designs will be available for $32 and regular plates with the new design will be $25.
Also new, owners of seasonal or antique vehicles will now have a single licence plate for their vehicles. The new plates will be available starting tomorrow, but getting one is optional.

Provincial Parks Free Today

Looking for something to do today? Admission to all provincially operated parks are free to celebrate New Brunswick Day.Tourism Minister Stuart Jamieson says this is an opportunity for residents to take in the scenery and recreational activities the parks have to offer.The Department of Tourism and Parks operate 9 provincial parks including New River Beach, and Mount Carleton.

The Pipeline is Repaired

The Natural Gas Pipeline in the Red Head area has been repaired. Three minor leaks have been on the radar since July.11th and the company says several threaded fittings were the problem. The work was finished up late Saturday and gas was flowing through the system around eight o’clock that evening.
Brunswick Pipeline spokes-person Susan Harris tells CHSJ News, it’s not un-common to have minor mechanical issues like this during the start-up of a new facility. Home-owners in the area of the leaks have been complaining of a rotten egg type smell for the past couple of weeks and that is where the odor was coming from.

The Masks Could Be Doing More Harm Than Good

You may have seen pictures of people wearing surgical masks in areas where there have been severe cases of the so called "swine flu" -- but -- our deputy chief medical health officer - Dr Paul Van Buynder - says people using masks when they don't need to can actually infect the masks and transmit the virus when normally they may not have.
Van Buynder says public health strongly believes people ill with the flu should not go to work and should stay home in isolation to help prevent the spread of the virus.