Armed Stand Off

An armed stand off in Minto is keeping police busy today. RCMP in the area have closed Highway 10 through Minto to monitor a person who've barricaded themselves on Pleasant Street. No word on if hostages are involved. This tip was phoned in by a caller, police will be releasing further information later today as the story develops. If you have a news tips, please feel free to call out 648-3000 newsline.

Robberies

Two robberies in the area last night have police searching for the thieves responsible. Two masked men entered the Courtney Bay Inn lobby with a weapon just after 12 and fled with an undisclosed amount of money. Shortly after 1 o'clock, a taxi driver was robbed under the same circumstances. Police believe the two men to be in their late teen's or early twenties. No one was injured.

SJ Minor Hockey

With a new season just around the corner.......Saint John Minor Hockey has most of it's pucks lined up and ready to fire. The Association continues to wait for ice time schedules from the city. President Bob Purdy tells CHSJ News, from everything he is hearing, the number of children on blades should be up.
Purdy says they currently have 34 teams looking for ice time in five rinks and that is never easy admitting a new arena could alleviate some of that pressure. Registration letters are out and begins on the 18th and 19th of next month.

Dragon Boat Festival

The 5th annual Dragon Boat Festival kicks off today at the Renforth Wharf near Rothesay. 52 teams with more than one thousand paddlers will compete in 25 races throughout the day to raise money for the St. Josephs Hospital Foundation's Wellness Garden. Organizer Jill Logan tells CHSJ news NB Southern Railway will run a passenger train between Harbour Station and the festival site on James Renforth Drive.
The goal of this year's event is to raise 250 thousand dollars. Festivities begin this morning with a traditional Chinese Ceremony. The outdoor Festival also includes musical performances, tug-of-war competitions, martial arts demonstrations, children’s activities and a food fair.