Moore is thrilled and honoured to be appointed a Cabinet minister

(Fundy Royal MP Rob Moore)

(file photo)

Fundy Royal MP Rob Moore is being rewarding for years of service to Harper government.
In today's cabinet shuffle, the 35-year-old has been appointed to the portfolio of Minister of State for Small Business and Tourism.
Moore tells CHSJ News he is pleased and honoured to be asked to fill this role.
He thinks it's a natural fit because small business and tourism is relevant in his riding, in the province and across the country.
Moore says he was thrilled to have his wife Melinda and one of his daughters on hand for the announcement in Ottawa today.

Rothesay Happy with Moore's Appointment

Accolades continue to roll in for Minister of state Small Business and Tourism Rob Moore. Rothesay Mayor Bill Bishop tells CHSJ News, this is a wonderful stepping stone for a man with plenty of character.

Bishop adds the more cabiner ministers in Greater Saint John can only mean good things for the area.

City Hall Sends Congratulations to Minister Moore

Mayor Ivan Court and council are also extending congratulations to Minister Moore on his appointment. Court tells CHSJ News, as a member of team Saint John, any improvement in his standing is a plus for all.

Court adds Minister Moore has a good relationship with Prime Minister Harper and is hoping that translates into good things for Greater Saint John.

16-year-old found guilty of second degree murder in man's death

A sixteen year old girl has been found guilty of second degree murder in the death of a Damascus man last summer. The verdict was handed down today at the Sydney Street Court House after 15 hours of deliberation by the jury.
78-year old Frank Tonge was stabbed to death in his home last June and the prosecution claimed the stabbing was planned and premedatated while the victim argued she acted in self defence.
Victim impact statements and a pre-sentence report will be prepared before sentencing takes place on the 19th of next month.

Promotion for the Riding of Fundy Royal

(Fundy Royal MP Rob Moore)
           (File Photo)

It's a milestone day for the riding of Fundy Royal. It's MP Rob Moore has been appointed to a cabinet post, one of ten in Prime Minister Harper's shuffle today. Moore takes on the portfolio of Minister of State Small Business and Tourism replacing Diane Ablonczy. Jean Pierre Blackburn takes over the Veterans Affairs post from Southwest MP Greg Thompson who stepped down over the weekend.

Also, Fredericton MP Keith Ashfield is the new Minister of National Revenue replacing Blackburn.

Theft in Brunswick Square

Three leather coats were stolen yesterday afternoon from Frank's Furs in Brunswick Square.The jackets were hanging on a rack near the door when there was a commotion.

City Police say a man described as being in his twenties and wearing a red hat took the jackets off the rack and ran.

Reaction to City Budget

Common Council's reluctance to lower the city's tax rate this year doesn't surprise Brian Stone of Citizens for Fair Taxation. Stone tells CHSJ News, the political will just isn't there.

Stone says they will soon have to make the effort to get a handle on making changes to the city's deficit laden pension plan.

Funding from Ottawa for Loch Lomond Villa

       (Loch Lomond Villa CEO Cindy Donovan)
                 (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

Funding for a first in the Province has landed at the Loch Lomond Villa. Saint John MP Rodney Weston presented staff today with a check for $24,400 dollars for it's lamp-lighter program. Weston says this set-up will take advantage of the skills seniors have developed over the years.

Under the program, seniors will have a chance to teach music, art, dance, english clases and organize social events in the community.

Radio Station Renovations Week Three

No Amalagamation In the K-V

(Rothesay Mayor Bill Bishop)

(File Photo)

Rothesay Mayor Bill Bishop is looking to put a long standing arguement to rest once and for all. Ammalgamation is a non-starter as far as he is concerned. Bishop tells CHSJ News, some people, including Quispamsis Councilor Gerry Maher have been saying his town and Quispamsis should co-operate, which he feels they do very nicely. Bishop knows the request by both councils to cut the fire budget by $100,000 dollars is another issue to fan the ammalgamation flame but is confident a resolution will be found. As for the future of the Kennebecasis library, talks are on-going about the proposed expansion and he expects a solution isn't far down the road.

City Budget Approved

(Common Councillor Carl Killen)

(File Photo)

It's official----the city's tax rate is staying the same at nearly $1.79. After discussions last night, Council approved the 2010 budget, with Deputy Mayor Stephen Chase, and Councillor Patty Higgins being the only votes against. There was talk about possibly decreasing the tax rate. Councillor Carl Killen says council could cut the rate in half if it wanted to but that would be irresponsible. Killen says a tight budget has stretched all city departments to the limit and discussions around it shouldn't be about reducing the tax rate---it should be how to supply the best quality service.

City Pension Fund

The new City Manager is trying to clear the air about the recent reports surrounding the pension fund. Pat Woods says the $10 million dollars is an estimate of what the city may have to pay on the fund, it's not as if there is an invoice. Woods says if it turns out the payment is less than that then the city can't get that money back. The city manager says even though there is legislation in place that prevents a deferral, there are also rules in place about changing the benefits structure. He says either way a change is going to have to take place. Woods says what the city is asking for is a bit of time to try to find a solution to the pension problem. He says by September a plan will be ready to present in the Legislature.

New City Manager Appointed

(Common Councillor Bill Farren)

(File Photo)

No surprises as Common Council welcomes Pat Woods as the new city manager. After a nation wide search by the recruiting firm Knightsbridge Robertson Surrette, Woods emerged as the strongest candidate.
Woods has been employed by the city for 25 years and has previously served as Deputy City Manager and Common Clerk. The change goes into effect immediately, and Woods will serve in the position for the next 5 years. Councillor Bill Farren says he knows Woods will do a good job as City Manager but thinks the city should have hired outside of City Hall.

New Municipal Plan For Saint John

It has been a work in progress for the past year and now City officials are ready to roll out it's plan for the future. Work on a new municipal plan is ready to get started and Deputy Commissioner of Planning Jacqueline Hamilton tells CHSJ News, with the current plan close to 40 years old, it is time to start laying out the frame-work for the next 25 years as to what the city will look like.
There is plenty of room for public consultation with several interactive style meetings. There will be a store-front shop for people to drop in as well to look at some of the idea's and give their own. It will be set up in Brunswick Square leading into the pedway. The city has hired ADI Limited and Urban Strategies to work on the plan at a cost of over $650,000 dollars. Council will have final say on the plan which it hopes to finalize by 2012.

Fires In the City

City Fire crews were called to 23 Clarendon Street off Douglas Avenue last night after smoke was seen coming from a second storey apartment. The fire began in the kitchen. There were no injuries but a dog was rescued from the building which had to be ventilated. Earlier, a small fire was put out at the rear of York Point which caused minor damage. It was determined work was being done with a torch which inadvertantly caused the fire to start. One person was taken to hospital after two vehicles collided near Market Square.

Canaport LNG gets a new boss

(Canaport LNG facility)

(file photo)

The Canaport LNG facility has a new head honcho.
Adolfo Azcarraga moved to Saint John in 2006 to manage the technical development of the facility.
In 2004, he helped negotiate the partnershop between Repsol and Fort Reliance.
Azcarraga replaces Jorge Ciacciarelli who took on a new position this month with Repsol in Bolivia.

Fort Reliance Tackles New Challenge

In the midst of the war of words over NB Power's future, the parent company of Irving Oil is calling for a regional transmission system. Fort Reliance is looking to set up a shared transmission system that would provide many benefits including lowering energy costs. To make this a reality, the company has formed a new venture called Portage Energy Limited. Over the past 18 months, Fort Reliance has been working on a feasibility study for the Northeast Energy Corridor initiative and how this new set-up will best meet economic and environmental goals.


The company believes that a shared approach to the region's infrastructure can unlock many of the challenges it faces. Portage Energy hopes to develop between one and two million dollars worth or new transmission infrastructure with public and private partners.

Mary Schryer doesn't Shy Away from Protestors

(Health Minister Mary Schryer)
          (File Photo)

Continuing their fight to have the NB Power-Hydro Quebec proposal taken off the table, Put NB People First visited three Saint John area MLA's offices today. Health Minister and Quispamsis MLA Mary Schryer was first on the agenda and points out, the Memorandum of Understanding is the starting and not the finishing point of this topic.


Schryer adds whether it is in favor or against, she has been taking the feedback of her constituents to the Premier and she will do the same with today's rally. When asked if she would vote in favor of this decision going to a referendum, Minister Schryer says until the document has been finalized she will not make a final decision.

Able Leblanc Greets Protestors

(Saint John West MLA Able Leblanc)
           (File Photo)

Able Leblanc's office was the next stop and as usual, the MLA for Saint John West wasn't shy about giving his opinion. Leblanc says if the group is looking to point the finger of blame, they should look no further than the Conservatives who spent three million dollars behind closed doors in shopping around the utility.


Leblanc says he will continue to work for not just NB People First but for every person in his constituency and around the Province who want a say in this matter.

Minister Keir on Protest

(Energy Minister Jack Keir)
        (File Photo)

There was some lively debate between Energy Minister Keir and some of the protestors as both sides laid out their argument for and against. Keir tells CHSJ News, ""change"" is a strong word when you speak of a new look to the Memorandum of Understanding.


Minister Keir says the Liberal government will continue to make sure reasonable rates for residents and industry are part of any final proposal to grow both sectors for the long term benfit of the province.

Put NB First on Rally

(Put NB People First Protestors Gather on West Side)
                 (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

Although cold after today's tour, Put NB People First are not beaten. Spokes-person Bethany Thorne Dykstra tells CHSJ News, it amazes her that regardless of how much noise constituents make saying they are not in favor of the deal, they are staying on course to have it approved.


There are two open house meetings being hosted by Put NB People First this week.....the first is tomorrow at Kennebecasis Valley High School at seven followed by another Thursday night, also at seven at the Germain Street Baptist Church.

Moore announces money for new Fairfield Community Centre

(MP Rob Moore)

(file photo)

Fundy-Royal MP Rob Moore has announced 150-thousand dollars in funding for a new community centre in Fairfield.
The Fairfield United Baptist Church will build the community centre beside the an existing church building. The community will be able to host meetings, provide training and host events in the new centre.
The total cost of the project is $300, 000.

More Protests Over NB Power Deal

Put NB People first continue its push to get the NB Power-Hydro Quebec proposed agreement taken off the table. The group will visit the offices of three Saint John area MLA's today. Mary Schryer's office in Quispamsis is the first stop at nine o'clock followed by a trip to the West Side and Abel Leblanc's office on the Manawagonish Road. Things wrap up with a stop at Jack Keir's office in Grand Bay-Westfield late this morning. A Town Hall meeting will be held tomorrow night at Kennebecasis Valley High School. Among the speakers are Ron Oldfield with the Saint John District Labour Council, NDP Leader Roger Duguay, Jack McDougall of the Green Party and Quispamsis MLA Mary Schryer. Things gets started at seven o'clock.

Increase in Minimum Wage Causing Anxiety

The Home Support Association in the Province is another group not excited about the increase of the minimum wage to $10 an hour by next September. Executive Director Janet Gee says they would love pay their staff the $14 dollars an hour they get from the province but they also have very high expenses and overhead. She tells CHSJ News they are talking with two government departments-Social Development and Post-Secondary, Education, Training and Labour about finding a solution. Gee adds they struggle now to pay their staff over $9 an hour and this increase will put the industry in jeopardy.

City Budget Comes Up For Approval

The city budget comes up for approval tonight at Common Council with the elephant in the room being the pension issue........Will the city be able to defer its ten million dollar pension payment this year? Before that question arose, both Deputy Mayor Stephen Chase and Councillor Patty Higgins were pressing for a tax reduction. Acting City Manager Pat Woods has said if the city was forced to make that ten million dollar pension payment, the tax rate would rise by 18 cents or the budget would have to be drastically cut by the same amount in order to keep the tax rate stable. He called both of those scenarios unrealistic.

City Manager For Saint John Expected To Be Announced

Along with the final budget numbers being rolled out at tonight's meeting of Common Council, we will find out who the new permanent City Manager is going to be. The search has been on since last year when then manager Terry Totten retired from the position.
27 resumes arrived at City Hall during the coast to coast search. Pat Woods has been the acting City Manager since Totten stepped down.

Provincial Tory Leader Taking No Riding for Granted

[Provincial Tory Leader David Alward---File Photo]

With eight nominated candidates in place around the Province, the Provincial Conservative party is feeling optimistic about it's chances heading into the fall election. In Greater Saint John, Leader David Alward says he is taking no riding for granted:

Alward adds there is excellent interest for several candidates in Greater Saint John.

Common Council Meeting Tomorrow Night

A packed agenda for Common Council tomorrow night.
Councillor Patty Higgins is submitting a request council consider implementing a hiring freeze for all city departments.
Higgins says the reasoning is until the city knows the outcome of the financial implications behind the pension fund, it shouldn't be doing any hiring.
Also on the agenda is how the city plans to launch the Municipal Plan. The goal is to have a copy in the hands of every city resident.
Council gathers Monday evening at 5:30 in the council chambers.

Bullying Being Reported in District 6

[District 6 Superintendent Zoe Watson---File Photo]

More students in District 6 are reporting instances of bullying than before.

Superintendent Zoe Watson says programs aimed at informing students of the importance of coming forward when they are being bullied seems to be working.
Watson says in most cases, incidents generally involve the same students.
Watson says it seems younger children are more likely to report instances of bullying, because older students generally try and solve their problems on their own. She says it would be valuable if all instances were reported to staff---but it's unlikely.

Political Scientist Speculates on Thompsons Next Move

One political scientist suggests the timing of Minister Thompsons resignation may be foreshadowing what is to come.
Don Desserud tells CHSJ News, if you're going to give up a ministerial post, now is the time to do it, to give the new person time to prepare for the opening of parliament.
Desserud says his first reaction was Thompson is stepping aside to be elevated to the upper chamber.
He says if he were a betting person, he would look at Thompsons stock for the next senate appointment rise rather quickly.
Earlier last week, Conservative M-L-A Margaret Ann Blaneys name resurfaced as a possible candidate for the Senate, but Desserud says she's been in the game long enough not to get her hopes up.

Veterans Affairs Minister Stepping Down

(South-West MP Greg Thompson)
      (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

The Minister of Veterans Affairs is stepping down from his post but retaining his MP's status for now. 62-year old Greg Thompson tells CHSJ News, he told Prime Minister Harper leading into the last election this would be his last kick at the can. Thompson says after surviving a battle with cancer two years ago and being on the road travelling most of his career, it is time stay closer to home with his wife Linda and family.

As for a replacement for the portfolio, Thompson adds he has no indication who the Prime Minister will choose and when the next Federal election is called, he will not re-offer.

PRO Kids Hoping To Raise Numbers This Year

752 local kids got the chance to enjoy recreational activities last year because PRO Kids. They hope to place more than 800 kids this year.

Program Manager Tammy Desaulniers tells CHSJ News they want to place the child in the activity of their choice.
Last year's PRO Kids annual dinner featuring Damon Allen was their most successful to date raising over $30, 000 dollars.

Red Cross Looking For Donations

You can drop by the Red Cross office in Saint John today and make a donation to the Haitian disaster relief fund.

Offices will be open from 10 am to 4pm in Saint John, Fredericton, Moncton and Bathurst.
You can also donate on our website.

City Budget Presented Monday

Common Council wants to see a balanced budget from acting City manager Pat Woods Monday night. Woods is urging Council to adopt a multi year plan to reduce the city's debtload.

Woods says if the city is spending money on loan payments, it means less for recreation, police and fire services.

New Priority in District 6

After an inspection by the Department of Education, the sprinkler system at Hampton Middle School needs replacing.

Director of Finance John MacDonald says it's not a safety precaution, it's due to the chance of water freezing in the pipes and causing a headache later.
MacDonald says the 60 thousand dollar project is moving to the top of the Capital investment list.
MacDonald says the upgrade to the sprinkler and alarm system at Sussex Corner Elementary is being replaced by this project, but will likely be the top priority on next years list.

Girl Guides Turn 100

Not many organizations get to celebrate 100 years of exsistence so the Girl Guides are pretty excited they are today. All girls in Greater Saint John are invited to the office at 55 Rothesay Avenue, right next to the Post Office to commemorate the important role Guiding has played in the community. Spokes-person Marie Wetmore tells CHSJ News, the organization has shaped the lives of many.
The open house runs this afternoon between two and four.

Work Continues at Potash Mine in Sussex

Construction continues at a good pace at the new Potash Corporation Mine near Sussex. 660 workers are on the site daily and General Manager Mark Fracchia tells CHSJ News, a big part of the job, sinking the shafts will start on the first week of February:

The target date to have the mine operational is 2012 with close to 500 people on the payroll.

Saint John Red Cross Office open tomorrow

14 Red Cross offices in Atlantic Canada will be open tomorrow to accomodate those who wish to donate funds to help those affected by the earthquake in Haiti.
Offices will be open from 10 am to 4 pm tomorrow in Saint John, Fredericton, Moncton and Bathurst.
Financial donations for the "Haiti Earthquake Fund" can also be made securely by credit card 24 hours a day online at www.redcross.ca/helpnow or by calling 1-800-418-1111.

Bell Aliant is Offering It's Help

Add Bell Aliant to the growing list of companies stepping up to help Haiti in it's time of need. Public Affairs Manager Alyson Queen tells CHSJ News, along with writing a $25,000 dollar check, you can go to their website at bellaliant.ca or bellaliant.net and check out some of the initiatives.


Satellite phones were also packaged and sent with the load of supplies on the two Canadian Naval vessels that left Halifax earlier this week. Queen says they will keep the set-ups in place for as long as the need is there.

Book Of Condolences for Fallen Officer

(Sgt. Mark Gallagher)

A book of condolences has been set up for RCMP Sgt. Mark Gallagher who died in the earthquake in Haiti. Sgt. Gallagher did most of his policing service in this Province and served with the Moncton Force before joining the National Force.

The books are set up at the headquarters in Fredericton, Moncton, Belledune, Bathurst, Dalhousie, Campbellton and Woodstock. You can also go on-line and send your best wishes to his wife and children.
Go to on-line book of condolences here:

Java Moose Wants to Help

Help for the country of Haiti continues to roll in from Greater Saint John. Java Moose has 100 pounds of Haitian Blue Coffee they are going to roast this weekend and make available at their City market location for a great price starting Monday.


It will be sold for $25 dollars a pound and all the money raised will be given to the Red Cross and the earthquake disaster relief fund.

Plenty of Road Work for Saint John and Kings County

The provincial Government announcing 63 million dollars in highway and bridge funding for Saint John and Kings Counties. There is over 30 million dollars for two viaducts, lighting and signage as part of the One Mile interchange. There will also be 29 kilometers of new moose fencing south of Oromocto, 85 new schoolbuses are being bought and a bridge at Gardner Creek is being replaced.

There's also lots of paving work in the area of the Highland Road Interchange, Route 102 and the Golden Grove Interchange.

Trading Ban Issued

A Moncton man has been banned by the New Brunswick Securities Commission from trading in securities with-in the Province for ten years. This follows an RCMP investigation in which Bradley Murray was accused of selling shares in his lighting company in a manner that constituted fraud.


He was convicted of fraud over $5,000 in court and has served a sentence of two years in prison. This case involved a single investor who lost over $100,000.

Conservatives Continue to Hammer the Premier

   (Rothesay Conservative MLA
        Margaret Ann Blaney)

If there is blood in the water, the Opposition Conservatives are in attack mode at the Legislature. Since it reconvened on Tuesday, they have been hammering Premier Graham over the proposed sale of the NB Power's major assets to Hydro Quebec. Sensing a ""change"" in Premier Graham's language, Rothesay MLA Margaret Ann Blaney tells CHSJ News, the Liberal caucus appears very nervous.

Blaney says her party specifically asked the Premier if the deal has been scrapped and he didn't deny it. Blaney adds she will be attend a Town Hall meeting next Tuesday at KV High School being hosted by Put NB People First to discuss how to quash the proposal.

Postal Union Reacts to Lack of Rural Coverage

The President of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers believes the problem can be fixed, but it will take a complete over-haul. This comes after Canada Post confirmed yesterday that areas of Quispamsis and the WestSide had little or no mail delivery since last week. Staffing issues including vacation are at the root of the problem and Wally Moore tells CHSJ News, there are many hurdles in hiring rural carriers including they have to use their own vehicle.


Moore adds Canada Post is aware of the problems these routes face but service is secondary to profits. Canada Post says delivery to the affected areas should get back to normal next week.

Brunway is Trying Something New

Salt Brine is being replaced with an environmentally-friendly product on the section of the Trans Canada Highway which stretches from the Qubec border to Longs Creek. The company responsbile for the road is Brunway and they are going to use a product called Fusion which is a mixture of sugar beet-based anti-icing and de-icing fluid. It is supposed to extend the time salt brine stays on the highway which increases it's melting power.


Officials say motorists will notice a darker, brown residue when Fusion is applied to the road instead of the white, chalky colour left by salt brine. The new product will be used until the end of next month and compared to information from salt usage and whether it can be used on other area's of the Trans Canada. Fusion is already being used on highways in Ontario.

Dissension Over NB Power Deal

If there is a crack in the Liberal caucus over the NB Power-Hydro Quebec proposal, Conservative Leader David Alward believes it is starting to show. With the departure of Mike Murphy, Alward tells CHSJ News, he is hearing that Liberal MLA's are concerned Premier Graham is not listening to them. As for his own prospects, Alward says he has heard all the talk from political pundits who claim he is not recognizable enough to win the next provincial election but he remains convinced his party is on the right track.

Elsie Wayne Still In Hospital

We have an update on the condition of Elsie Wayne. The former Mayor and MP has been at the Regional Hospital since November after suffering a stroke. Her husband Richard tells CHSJ News, she continues her therapy but there is still no indication when she will be able to go home. Richard adds she is making steady progress in her recovery.

Harbour Bridge Authority Looking for Cash

No firm committments of cash yet from the provincial or federal governments for repairs to the Harbour Bridge. Authority General Manager Ken Anthony says talks are on-going but no money yet.
Anthony adds it's a little soon to talk of speed and lane reductions on the bridge. Anthony adds a meeting with a broker in western Canada was positive and they have some things they are working on that they can't comment on right now.

Final Public Meeting on Trails and Bikeways

The final consultation meeting for bike trails in the city is over, and the Terrain Group has a lot of ideas to work with. Planner Kevin Brooks tells CHSJ news, residents are asking for more information on trails, including maps, as well as better maintenance.
Terrain Group will be taking all information gathered from these meetings back to leisure services, for an eventual common council presentation in March.

Armed Robbery

City Police are investigating an armed robbery last night just before 11 at the Petro Can on Bayside Drive. One suspect is being sought. No one was injured and police say some cash was stolen.

Irving Oil and it's Employees Helping Out

They say the generosity of Saint Johner's is huge and this next story certainly proves that. Irving Oil is partnering with the Canadian Red Cross to provide aid to the Haitian disaster relief effort. The company will donate $50,000 and has committed to match all donations collected by Irving Oil employees until the end of the month.

Employee's are organizing 50/50 draws, donation boxes and casual days, among other things to keep the money rolling in. The Province has also committed $100,000 dollars toward the relief efforts.

The Mail is Moving Slow in Quispamsis and West Saint John

If you live on the West Side or in Quispamsis and have noticed you don't seem to be receiving your normal amount of mail......we have the reason why. Canada Post Spokes-person Genevieve LaTour tells CHSJ News, they are short staffed in both area's.


LaTour adds they attempt delivery everday but given the number of people not able to come to work, every area can't be covered. She expects the situation will improve by next week.

Stanley is Getting a New Nursing Home

A nine million, 30-bed nursing home will be built in Stanley to replace Nashwaak Villa Inc. The announcement was made by the Provincial Government today with construction to begin this spring and finish by the fall of next year. Along with the much-needed beds, 80 construction jobs are being created for the project.

This is the 11th nursing home in the province being replaced with a new facility and two other nursing homes will be built in Neguac and Dieppe. Five nursing homes are set to undergo major additions, 31 will be renovated and six will undergo minor repairs. All of the new facilities should be finished by 2016 and 2017, creating a total of 297 new beds.

Put NB People First Continues it's Fight

         (Rally at the Legislature on Jan.12th/2010)
                (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

Put NB People first continue their push to get the NB Power-Hydro Quebec taken off the table. The group will visit the offices of three Saint John area MLA's on Monday. Mary Schryer's office in Quispamsis is the first stop at nine o'clock followed by a trip to the West Side and Abel Leblanc's office on the Manawagonish Road. Things wrap up with a stop at Jack Keir's office in Grand Bay Westfield.

A Town Hall meeting will then be held on Tuesday night at Kennebecasis Valley High School. Among the speakers is Ron Oldfield with the Saint John District Labour Council, NDP Leader Roger Duguay, Jack McDougall of the Green Party and Quispamsis MLA Mary Schryer. Things gets started at seven o'clock.

District Eight Education Council Open House

The first of five Town Hall Style meetings hosted by the District Eight Education Council goes tonight. Rob Fowler is Chair of the Education Council and tells CHSJ News, this has nothing to do the recent criticism of the District by Enterprise Saint John Chair Bob Manning.


Fowler adds in a meeting just before the holiday, the DEC spent two hours in a public session going through assessment results and a new plan of attack on how to raise scores. Tonight's meeting is at River Valley Middle School starting at seven.

Toddler Dies From Methadone

Sad news out of Halifax with word the 23 month old baby girl who ingested methadone last Friday at a home in Havelock has died at the I-W-K. She was taken there after paramedics were called to the home last Friday. Two people were earlier taken into custody but later released with no charges laid. The RCMP say they're treating the toddler's death as suspicious and their Major Crime Unit is now in charge of the investigation. The name of the child has not been released.

School District 8 Plan To Improve Student Achievement

Bev MacDonald

                                                                       (File Photo)   

District 8 is putting in place a school improvement plan that will see every school in the district ready for provincial assessments. While the Province works on a 5-year model, the school district will work on a 3-year basis and the schools will update their plans on every year. Director of Education Bev MacDonald says it's based on the provincial education plan "When Kids Come First" focusing on literacy, numeracy and science. It also includes a professional development plan that will focus on giving teachers the training and skills they need in order to reach the goals set out for academics.

Gas Prices Rise In Saint John Area

Gas prices in the Saint John area are continuing to increase after the weekly setting. The maximum price for self serve regular has gone up almost 2 cents a litre to 104.8 but most stations are selling it this morning for 102.2 a litre. The maximum price for diesel has also risen by less than a cent to 110.7 a litre but is being sold in the city for 108.1. The maximum price for furnace oil is 93.9 and propane is at $1.17.

School District 8 Budget

School District 8 is on target to maintain balanced books for the end of its fiscal year in March. The more than 94-million dollar budget included a big reduction in funding which meant cuts to transportation including buses, thier drivers and routes. Heating costs are lower this year and all the teachers they planned to hire are in place. Minor repairs to the District's schools cost over 1 million dollars and they could have spent more with some schools over 40 years old.

School District 6 Budget

It looks like District 6 is going to have a surplus in its budget by the end of the school year. The Director of Finance John MacDonald tells CHSJ News, right now the numbers are breaking even, but is confident when it's closer to March there will be some left over cash.
MacDonald says even with provincial cuts to transportation, surprisingly enough that is where the surplus is coming from. Superintendent Zoe Watson says any surplus is good news, but with an 80 plus million dollar budget, and extra hundred thousand dollars doesn't go very far.

Conservative Leader Promises N-B Power Policy Coming Soon

The Tories are promising to release a plan for the future of N-B Power soon -- and -- Conservative leader David Alward says the party's plan will include input from New Brunswickers.
He says the Graham government has excluded residents from having any kind of say about the controversial sale of the utility to Hydro Quebec.
Alward says the party's plan will be released before the agreement is approved by the Legislature -- but -- he says the main focus right now is to try to block the deal.

Waterfront Development Lays out Future Plan

(One of Several Pictures on Display at Open House)
               (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

The dreams of Saint John Waterfront Development were on display at an open house last night. Home-owners were invited to give their feedback on some of the conceptual designs including a new look for Long Wharf, Fort laTour and Partridge Island. President Bill McMackin tells CHSJ News, re-shaping the water-front is a 25 year project so it's tough to put a price tag on what they have proposed.

McMackin adds some of these projects are in the design stage, a long way down the road and the dare to dream category. Regardless, of the feedback gathered will be put into a final report and some will be used in the design stage.

Irving Oil at Waterfront Open House

        (Irving Oil Conceptual Drawing of Waterfront)
                    (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

Along with Waterfront Development, Irving Oil rolled out some conceptual drawings at the open house. Spokes-person Leslie McLoud tells CHSJ News, there is a tremendous amount of potential for the waterfront area. Some of the proposals include an arts and culture park similar to the one in Quispamsis which includes an out-door theater, green space during the warm months and a skating surface in the winter.

As for the company's new headquarters plan for Long Wharf, McLoud tells us they are still going through the required processes.

Search Getting Smaller for YM-YWCA

With the search narrowed down to four sites, the YM-YWCA is getting closer to finding a new permanent home. After moving out of it's Hazen Avenue location three and a half years ago, officials are hopeful they might be able to find a spot along the water-front. CEO Pat Davis tells CHSJ News, to be in the vicinty of Long Wharf slip would be ideal.

Davis adds it is difficult to drive by their former home on Hazen Avenue and see no progress being made on Peel Plaza but points out it probuably would cost them more to stay there than it does now.

MLA Reacts to Losing Contact Center in His Riding

(Saint John Portland MLA
       Trevor Holder)

As 174 jobs will leave his riding in the spring, Saint John Portland Conservative MLA Trevor Holder is very concerned the Eddie Bauer Contact Center is closing. Holder tells CHSJ News, there might be a chance to get back some of the money invested to bring the contact center here in 2001.

Holder adds there is a message hidden in this dark cloud as well that Saint John is not immune to the global recession. The contact center will close at the end of May.

Cruise Ship Schedule for 2010 is Rolled Out

     (Cruise Ship in the Harbor)
              (File Photo)        

The Saint John Port Authority is geared up for another cruise ship season. It gets started on May 28th with a visit from the Hanseatic and stretches til October 29th when the Queen Mary 2 will continue her recent tradition of being the final cruise ship to call.


There will be 77 vessels in total to tie up at the port with a passenger count of over 210,000. Carnival Cruise Line will be the most frequent visitor with 26 calls. Saint John will also play host to the Canada-New England Cruise Symposium from June 8th to 10th.

Poley Mountain is Closing for the Night

If you were making plans for Poley Mountain tonight, forget it. The hill is closing (closed) at 4:30pm due to mechanical issues with the quad chair.

Officials at the hill tell us they will keep us posted on when they get things fixed.

City Police Officer Watching Haiti Closely

One City Police officer is watching with great interest as the clean-up continues in Haiti following a massive earthquake. Constable Mike Young was in the country last year working closely with the Haitian National Police Force and tells CHSJ News, he is very happy to hear the U.S, U.N. and Canadian Red Cross are sending help right away.


Constable Young says the medical services in the country, even before the destruction are third world and seeing some of the facilities himself, they are beyond anything you can imagine.

Saint John Hit Hard in Recent Survey

According to the Conference Board of Canada, Saint John is not doing a great job in attracting new bodies to the metro area. As cities across the country face the same problem of an aging work-force, the survey looks at which ones are doing the best job in bringing home new bodies. Calgary, Waterloo, Ottawa, Vancouver, St. John's and Richmond Hill, Ont all receive a grade of "A".


Our city has a grade of "D". The survey analyzed 50 cities based on 41 indicators including health, economy, environment, society and education.

Mayor Court Tired of Negative Talk

                 (Mayor Ivan Court)
                  (File Photo)

There is no other municipal council in the province that's more open and transparent when it comes to putting together a budget than Saint John. That claim is being made by Mayor Ivan Court who says he's getting sick and tired of hearing otherwise.

The Mayor maintains municipalities haven't had the money they need to meet the expectations of their residents.

Finance Commissioner Defends Property Values

The City's Finance Commissioner says property values in Saint John are 30 per cent lower than than they are in Fredericton and Moncton. Greg Yeomans says that explains why the tax rate in Saint John is higher.


Yeomans says the city is trying to understand why property values are so much higher in the other two major cities of the province.

Green Party Leader Speaks Out

(Green Party Leader Jack McDougall Far Left)
              (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

""Survival"" that is how Provincial Green Party Leader Jack McDougall describes the on-going debate over the proposed sale of NB Power to Hydro Quebec. McDougall says it's time to lay out the hard facts that this deal is for-ever.


McDougall adds the Green Party will lay out it's comprehensive energy plan for the province's future with-in the next week.

Is Margaret Ann Blaney Making a Move

       (Margaret Ann Blaney)
            (File Photo)

Ottawa appears to be pleased with the work coming out of the riding of Rothesay. Conservative MLA Margaret Ann Blaney's name is again being tossed around as a possible candidate for the senate. Blaney tells CHSJ News, at this point, it is nothing but speculation.


Blaney is a former candidate for the leadership of the Provincial Conservatives and has held several Provincial cabinet posts over her career.

Dead Ducks in Rockwood Park

It could be at least two weeks before we know if any charges will be laid after two ducks were killed in Rockwood Park on Monday. A 45-year old man was taken into custody but has since been released. City Police and the Department of Natural Resources are looking into the matter and DNR spokes-person Matt Jones tells CHSJ News, this is something they take very seriously.

Jones adds under different acts and statutes in the Province, you need a license to kill any wildlife in the proper season but it doesn't matter how you kill it whether it be with a vehicle or a rock.

Homes in Sussex Hit by Shots

It appears someone in Sussex is taking target practise at homes with a pellet or BB gun. RCMP were called after a window pane in the door of a home on Elmwood Avenue was broken. There were two holes caused by either a BB or Pellet gun.


Also, an outdoor light had been broken at another home and holes were also found in the siding of another home on the same street.

Changes to Disability Act

If you suffer with a disability, some good news from Fredericton today. As of January.1st, the disability supplement will be added to the social assistance benefits extended to anyone with disabilities and these benefits will be provided monthly.

Anyone with disabilities who were not previously eligible for the benefit may now qualify depending on their income. Clients who received their annual benefit in October of last year prior to this change will start receiving the benefit monthly beginning in October.

Saint John Company is Closing this Spring

Company officials now confirm the Eddie Bauer Contact Center in Saint John, New Brunswick is closing it's doors at the end of May. Director of Communications Sarah Redgrave tells CHSJ News, this was not an easy decision and employees will not be left with-out options. All will be aable to apply, if they wish, to one of their two new out-sourcing companies and a job fair with other companies in Saint John looking to hire will be set up.


174 people are currently working at the center which first opened it's doors back in 2001. Redgrave adds the decision to close was made because the two new outsourcing facilities can offer it's customers with faster turn time and better technology not available here in Saint John.

Board of Trade on NB Power Proposal

       (Chair of the SJ Board of Trade Cathy Craig)
                 (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

The Saint John Board of Trade has identified six areas in the proposed deal to sell NB Power's major assets to Hydro Quebec that have to be improved. Chair Cathy Craig tells CHSJ News, they would like both parties to address these areas before the deal is done.


The areas for improvement according to the Board of Trade include current service levels being maintained or increased and they want to ensure Saint John Energy will not be negatively affected.

No Apology From NDP Leader

Provincial New Democratic party leader Roger Dugay isn't saying sorry after turning a news conference by opponents to the sale of N-B Power into a shambles.
Dugay launched into a verbal attack on Conservative leader David Alward and his party for its handling of N-B Power while in government -- and -- he tells CHSJ News he's unrepentant.
Dugay is promising to tear up the sale agreement if his party forms the government after this fall's vote and vows to work with any party willing to take that action if his party holds the balance of power after the election.
Premier Graham says the controversial of N-B Power to Hydro Quebec will be approved by the Legislature before a March 31st deadline.

Highlights Of No To Sale Of NB Power News Conference

Second Rally at the Legislature

Hampton Teen's Murder Trial to start today

The trial of a 15-year-old Hampton girl charged with first degree murder in the death of an elderly man is scheduled to start today.
She had previously elected trial by judge alone, but will be facing the jury as well.
78-year-old Frank Tonge of Damascus died in his home from a single stab wound to his upper body.
Nine days have been set aside for the trial in Saint John.

Another NB Power Rally at the Legislature

(Over Two Hundred Rally in Front of the Legislature)
                (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

Over 200 people braved the cold in front of the Legislature to voice their displeasure with the propoed sale of NB Power to Hydro Quebec. The faces were different but the cry was the same....Premier Graham has got to go. Former Energy Minister Jeannot Volpe was one of several speakers who encouraged them to continue their fight.


Volpe adds there is a bill in place right now that states the public utility cannot be sold so if the proposal is to go through, Premier Graham will have to change the act. The next rally is planned on Jan.28th when Premier Graam delivers is state of the Province adress.

Provincial NDP Do It Their Way

(From the Left is Green Leader Jack McDougall, center is
Conservative Leader David Alward and NDP Boss Roger
                                 Dugay)
                     (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

The leader of the Provincial NDP Party certainly knows how to crash a party. Roger Dugay took part in a news conference with Conservative Leader David Alward and Green Party boss Jack McDougall to voice their opposistion to the proposed sale of NB Power but didn't stick to the script. Dugay says the Liberals and Conservatives can't be trusted and rallied for voters to stand behind his party this fall.

Dugay added the Conservatives began this process to sell NB POwer and after it broke, the LIberals are now trying to sell the broken pieces. All three leaders ay they will have a document outlining their parties alternatives to the proposed sale.

Protest Rally at Legislature

MLA's returning to the Legislature today can expect a big crowd in front of the building. A second rally to protest the proposed sale of NB Power's major assets to Hydro-Quebec is scheduled for noon. Greg Cook is the spokes-person for the Coalition of New Brunswickers opposed to the sale and tells CHSJ News, his group has 28,000 members and continues to grow. Cook is convinced with the resignation of Mike Murphy last week, there is a fracture in the ranks. The first rally held back in the fall had 1500 people show up. Today's gets started at Noon.

K-V Fire Budget

Trying to eliminate 100 thousand dollars from the Kennebacasis Fire Department's budget is still the topic of debate in the valley. Quispamsis is trying to convince Rothesay to allow the hiring of an additional fire fighter.
Mayor Bill Bishop says Quispamsis has agreed to hold off on hiring someone until the fourth quarter of the year. The fire board is suggesting a meeting between the two municipalities, and members of the fire department. Deputy Mayor Blair MacDonald wants to wait for a new fire chief, and deputy chief to get a fresh perspective on the issue. K-V Fire Chief Larry Grier is expected to officially retire at the end of February.

Damage from Jail Disturbance

Damage from Saturday's riot at the Regional Correctional facility was extensive but limited to one living area which contains 24 cells. Furniture, plumbing fixtures and electrical wiring were damaged.
A small fire was set in the area which was immediately exstinguished and as a result the area sustained water damage. The disturbance involved 16 prisoners at the facility on the Old Black River Road.

Cash Donations for Burned Out Family

If you would like to help out a family who has been left without anywhere to live this past weekend after a fire on Garden Street, Saint John High teacher Barry Ogden tells CHSJ News you can drop off any money you can spare to the school secretary at the Canterbury Street entrance. The School is not collecting clothing or furniture.
Ogden, who also chairs the city's Leisure Services Committee, says this latest fire points out the need for safe affordable housing in the city core.

City Budget Nears Approval

The city wants to cap future budget increases for police, fire and transit services to one per cent in 2011 and 2012. That word from acting City manager Pat Woods who will be presenting a balanced budget for Common Council's approval next week. It's expected to contain a stable tax rate of $1.79 but Woods is warning Councillors they have to do something about the financially beleaguered city pension plan this year. Deputy Mayor Stephen Chase is concerned about rising water rates and wants to see major construction projects limited to water.

Man Faces Charges for Killing Ducks

Charges are pending against a 45-year-old man responsible for killing ducks at Rockwood Park.

The man was driving around the duck pond this afternoon and hit some ducks with his vehicle and killed two of them.
City Police are working with the Department of Natural Resources on the matter.
The charges will be filed under the Wildlife Act.