Memorial Cup Semi-Final: Saint John vs Shawinigan

Methadone Study Shows Need For Retention

A two year study of the methadone clinic at St. Joseph's hospital showing in the importance of keeping people in treatment.
 

Dr. Tim Christie of AIDS Saint John tells CHSJ News that Saint John had a retention rate of 95 per cent between August 09 and August 2010--which is the highest in the country.

He says without treatment they are managing their addiction untreated and predictable things happen such as an increase in crime and busier emergency rooms.

Dr. Christie also noting that 70 per cent of the cost of treatment are pharmacist dispensing fees which is an essential part of the service.

He thinks money already being spent could be allocated in a better way to decrease the waitlist helping more people get treatment.

If untreated, an addict in the province costs taxpayers between the cost of healthcare and crime on average $45,000 a year.
The cost to treat one person on Methadone for a year is less than $5900.

Target Confirms McAllister Place Location

Saint John will be home to the first Target store in the province - the U-S based retailer announcing the McAllister Place Zeller's outlet will be converted to a Target store with re-opening planned for some time next year.
The local store is one of 110 confirmed Target locations across the country set to begin opening in March of next year.
Meantime - the Zeller's store in the Lancaster Mall is selling off inventory and fixtures - it will close soon and work will begin on converting it to a Walmart store.

Accident Sends One To Hospital

An industrial accident on Bayside Drive at Irving Paper sending one man to hospital with injuries.

It happened just after 6 this morning and Worksafe NB is looking into what happened.

Community Activist Wants City Staff Investigated

Community activist John Campbell, who ran unsuccessfully for a council seat in the recent municipal election, is crying foul over the pension snafu.

While City Manager Pat Woods says it was an oversight, Campbell does not buy it.

He says city staff have been trying for years to increase their benefits.

Campbell says it points to a bigger problem at city hall -- where councillors have too many details to pour through at the last minute.

Campbell is also calling on the province's Attorney General to launch an investigation.

Farren Says Pension Snafu Requires Answers

Bill Farren reacting to word a clause to permit high earners to retire earlier with full benefits recently flagged by Deputy Mayor Stephen Chase will be removed in the package before the Superintendent of Pensions. 

City manager Pat Woods says it was part of an early draft of the reforms.

Farren tells CHSJ News with an issue as big as this we have to make sure all the t's are crossed and the i's are dotted.

He wonders what was put in that shouldn't be there and what wasn't included that should be there adding it raises a lot of questions.

Farren says he hopes the new council can deal with the issues.

Salty Jam Launches

Salty Jam is back for another year this summer.

The 3 day event will offer music lovers a variety of flavours -- acts this year will include The Hupman Brothers, Jessica Rhaye, and Matt Mays.

Salty Jam Chair Karla McLean tells CHSJ News not only will you get to hear a great selection of tunes, you will supporting a great cause as tips and 10 percent of the net proceeds will go towards The Give.

The event runs from July 5th to 7th -- for more information, click here.

By-Election Date Announced For Vacant Rothesay Seat

A by-election will be held Monday, June 25, in the provincial riding of Rothesay,

The Premier making the announcement today.

The by-election is to fill the spot being left by Conservative Margaret-Ann Blaney, who is leaving to head up Efficiency NB.

So, far only one name has been put forward - Charlotte McGill Pierce is a local member of the District Education Council and is running for the Conservative nomination.

Fire Crews Tackle Small Blaze At Learning Centre

Fire crews responding to a small blaze at the old Holy Trinity school on Burpee Avenue.

It is currently an early childhood learning centre

The call came just past 4:30 yesterday.

Acting Platoon Chief Marc Carey says flames were coming out of a basement window and door frame.


We are told the fire drill worked flawlessly and all the kids in the school evacuated safely.

The fire was quickly put out and the cause is being looked into.

Fire crews also putting out a large grass fire at the foot of Alexandra Street in the city's north end.

The fire was a threat to a nearby home -- the blaze did take down some telecommunication lines which disrupted some residents.

The cause is being looked into.

Mindcare New Brunswick Announces Funding Recipients

Mindcare New Brunswick announcing the projects it will fund this year as a result of the most recent Investors Group Skate To Care event.  Over 81 thousand dollars is being distributed among 14 mental health programs and services.

This year's recipients include Key Industries, the Saint John YMCA, Gentle Path Counselling, and the Canadian Mental Health Association.

The fundraiser, held each February, has raised more than $2.5 million for mental health programs and services.

Port Boss Dealing With Noise Complaints