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.

West Side Business Association Blind Sided By Request to Deny Levy

Total contempt is the feeling Blaine Harris with the West Side Business Association is feeling towards the recommendation to deny the improvement levy.Harris tells CHSJ News, the common clerk is not consulting with the association, or verifying the names on the petition.
Harris says since they were not informed about the recommendation by the common clerk they are not able to present their case to council at Tuesday's meeting, but says the associations presence will be noticed.Harris says the whole process of getting the B-I-A has been disappointing. He says it seems city staff were ready to reject it the moment they applied for it.

Woman Dead After Head On Collision

A 60 year old woman is dead after a head on collision on the Loch Lomond Road yesterday afternoon.Just after 2:30 a pick up truck slammed into the front of a car.The passenger of the car and the driver of the truck were both sent to the hospital, but their injuries are not believed to be serious.The woman's name is not being released as major crime investigates.

Man Drowns At Fisher Lakes

A tragedy at Rockwood Park yesterday afternoon.A 39 year old man drowned while swimming at Fisher Lake around 3:30.Lifeguards were able to get to him after noticing him struggling in the water, and he was taken to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.No name has been released as Major Crimes tries to figure out what happened.

Grand Bay Westfield Potential For Real Estate

Real estate in Grand Bay Westfield appears to be an investment with potential -- Saint John Real Estate Board president Peter Pappas says there is still plenty of land available and the town appears to be development friendly.
A new connector road running from Route 7 to the center of the town is under construction and will give access to about four hundred acres of land for development.

Seadogs Continue To Try and Fill The Seats

Some surprise at the Saint John Seadogs front office about Irving Oils announcement last week to cancel plans for a second refinery. The team was looking forward to extra bodies in the metro for walk-up ticket sales and possibly new season ticket holders. President Wayne Long tells CHSJ News, they are always looking at ways to grow their fan base.
Long says right now they are at 65% capacity for the season and continue their push to have 2500 season tickets locked up before the home-opener.

Westside Business Improvement Levy to be Denied

The Common Clerk is recommending council deny the proposed Westside Business Improvement Levy.The analysis of the objections received totalled 34.6 per cent of non-residential users.Members of the Westside Business Association had requested city staff verify the amount of objections to the levy, because those who had previously objected were given wrong information about what it was all about.After doing site visits, city staff found that the objectors equalled one third of those paying into the levy, which means it cannot be passed under the Business Improvement Act.

Swine Flu Vaccine On It's Way

New Brunswickers will be receiving at least one dose of the anti-H-1-N-1 vaccine when it becomes available later this year. Deputy chief medical health officer Dr Paul Van Buynder says the vaccination program will begin with at risk groups like those under 20 or those with chronic diseases.
Van Buynder says most people will receive two doses of the vaccine -- but -- seniors may only receive one shot because studies have shown they have built up a natural immunity to the virus -- the shots will be given free of charge.

Fire In Titusville

Five other fire crews lending a hand to the Hampton Fire and Rescue for a structure fire last night in Titusville.A single storey home was gutted by fire, but no one was hurt as there was no one home.Crews from Naugwigewauk, Upham, Simmonds, Norton and K-V all were called to the blaze.Crews are trying to determine the cause of the fire.

Natural Gas Line Leaking

There have been three minor leaks along the Brunswick Pipeline in the Red Head area since July 11th. The company says several threaded fittings are leaking small amounts of the odorized gas--but--spokesperson Susan Harris says it's not uncommon to have minor mechanical issues during the start-up of a new facility.

Crews will be working to repair the leaks throughout the day tomorrow by letting out natural gas from a portion of the meter station piping; burning the majority of the gas using a short flare stack, and replacing the threaded fittings. Harris says residents may smell a “rotten egg” odour near the Canaport LNG Terminal while work is carried out, but there will be no danger for nearby residents.

Province's First Casino on Target

Construction is well underway on the province's first casino near Magnetic Hill in Moncton. The presidents of Suncor Gaming New Brunswick says they are on budget and on target for completion by next spring. And Mike Novac tells CHSJ news, neighbours in a nearby residential area have been very patient during the construction phase.

The 89 million dollar project is expected to create a boon for the hub city when four hundred more workers are hired in the coming weeks.

Fredericton Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking

A Fredericton man has been sentenced to 11 years in jail following a two year joint investigation by Fredericton Police and the Saint John Drug Unit. 39 year old, Timothy Clayton Price was sentenced on charges including trafficking in cocaine and marijuana, production of marijuana, and weapons possession. He plead guilty to all charges last month.

Price is not allowed to own a gun for 10 years following his jail release, and was ordered to provide a DNA sample. He has also been ordered to forfeit all firearms and ammunition seized during the investigation, along with 125 thousand dollars.

Province Unveils New License Plates

The provincial government has rolled out a series of new license plates today, including one with the slogan "Be...in this place". Business New Brunswick Minister Victor Boudreau says the new slogan seeks to inspire New Brunswickers to recognize and pursue the natural advantages of this province.

The newly designed plates will be available on August 4th for $25. New conservation plates with three new designs will be available for $32. Also new, owners of seasonal or antique vehicles will now have a single licence plate for their vehicles. Getting a new license plate is optional.

RCMP Beeing Up Patrols on Long Weekend

Another Long Weekend is upon us and that means RCMP are beefing up patrols. Officers will keep an eye out for all violations but in particular drinking and driving and getting behind the wheel if you are high. Staff Sargent Stephane Caron admits to CHSJ News, it can be tougher to find those who have been smoking a joint or taking some pills compared to those who have had to many drinks.

So far this year, 20% of serious collisions RCMP have responded to have involved an impaired driver.

Doctors Continue Their Court Battle

The legal battle between the Province and its doctors isn't over. The New Brunswick Medical Society says it will pursue its legal action against the province over a controversial wage freeze. The new court date has been set for September.16th. Health Critic and Rothesay Conservative MLA Margaret Ann Blaney tells CHSJ News, the doctors feel very strongly they have a solid case.

Doctors say they are trying to force the government to implement a contract that was negotiated in good faith. The government announced last week that it was implementing legislation that would declare that agreement void.

Motorcycles Stolen in East Saint John

A day after reminding Red Head residents to lock up their vehicles after several thefts, Major Crime has been called in after several motorcycles were stolen yesterday.

Officers arrived at a storage trailer behind the Community College early in the morning to find three bikes, being used by the New Brunswick Safety Council had been stolen.
Each is worth $5200 dollars.

Town of Rothesay Awards

The Town of Rothesay has announced this years recipients for their New Brunswick Day Merit Awards. They 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. They will be handed out at the next council meeting on Monday August.10th at eight o'clock.

Weston Says Ottawa Waiting To Sign On Dotted Line

Despite efforts by the Longshoremen's Union to scuttle the Long Wharf - Irving Oil deal through court action -- Saint John M-P Rodney Weston says the federal government is still willing to give its approval to the land required land transactions. He tells CHSJ News it's just a matter of Irving - the Port Authority - and - the city finalizing the agreements.Weston was hoping that paperwork would be finalized by the first of August -- but -- he admits that doesn't look realistic. Irving and the Port Authority are involved in a land swap which will clear the way for the company's 30-million dollar office complex on Long Wharf.

City Councilor Never Liked Second Refinery Proposal

At least one city councilor is not too disappointed with news a second refinery won't be built in Saint John. Patty Higgins has told CHSJ News it would be just another major polluter offering a short-term economic boost.

Higgins says the city should be promoting cleaner, leading edge technology.

City Police Warn of More Car Thefts

City Police are issuing a warning to residents in Saint John--and particularly in the Red Head area--to remove valuables from their cars and keep the doors locked. Police have received several complaints today from Red Head residents whose items have been stolen from their vehicles.

The recent thefts follow a similar cluster that happened around July 17th when a car was actually stolen.

Tourism Numbers Up Despite Soggy Weather

Neither the economic recession, nor the terrible damp weather is hindering tourism numbers so far this summer in Saint John. A supervisor with Tourism Saint John says Canadian, American, and other international tourist traffic is up this year. Sean Payne tells CHSJ news that's due in large part to the cruise ship industry.

Payne also says staycationing is becoming big and a lot of this year's tourists are from other parts of New Brunswick. He says Saint John has been the leader in tourism over the past few years in Atlantic Canada.

Research Continues into Tidal Energy Potential

Research continues into the potential of developing tidal energy from the Bay of Fundy.Energy Minister Jack Kier tells CHSJ news it will happen eventually. Irving Oil and the Huntsman Marine Science Centre are currently trying to determine what type of equipment would work best in the rough ocean waters.

Researchers are collecting and analyzing data from 11 sites along the Bay of Fundy to determine what equipment should be used, what type of electricity they could generate--and--if it's sustainable in the long-term.

Public Health Official - Start Planning

Public health officials are advising businesses and agencies to begin planning for the onslaught this winter of the H-1-N-1 virus commonly known as the "swine flu." Deputy chief medical health officer - Dr Paul Van Buynder - says if the pandemic outbreak gains a foothold in the province - absenteeism rates could be as high as 25-percent -- and -- he says the provincial government is reviewing its contingency plans in all departments.The number of cases confirmed in the province has now hit 94 from 61 last week -- most of the increase coming as the result of an outbreak of the flu at a cadet camp in Base Gagetown. Van Buynder also says the province to make the flu vaccine available to all New Brunswickers -- the supply should be available by early December.

Irving Oil Responds to Allegations

A day after allegations from the International Longershoremans Association surfaced, Irving Oil is responding. An application has been filed in federal court for what the I-L-A says is an agreement between the port and Irving Oil that doesn't comply with federal legislation. Spokes-person Leslie McLeod tells CHSJ News, the company is not part of the application.

McLeod says Irving Oil is concerned about any delay in the project and is exploring all options. ILA spokes-person Pat Riley argues construction materials were off-loaded by rail and cranes were ordered to begin construction before federal approval has been granted.

Thunder and Lightning Storms

The weather is what most people will be talking about today. Thunder and Lightning storms began rolling through the Grand Bay-Westfield area last night at six o'clock and carried through til early this morning. At the height of the storm, NB Power was reporting over 11,000 of it's customers off the grid. Crews have been out all night trying to rectify the problem.

No word on when the utility hopes to have all of it's customers re-connected.

Another Armed Robbery in Greater Saint John

A West Side business the latest target by a thief last night. City Police tell us a man walked into AJ's Lounge on the Manawagonish Road just after eleven o'clock and demanded cash from the bartender. He complied and the thief took off. No word on whether this man fits the description of several other robberies and attempted robberies in the past month.

This brings the total of successful robberies to seven and five attempted in the past month.

Price of Gasoline Up Again

If you had travel plans for the up-coming Long Weekend....it is going to cost you more to get around. The Energy and Utilities Board has released it's weekly price schedule which shows the maximum retail for a litre of gasoline is 96.2 which is up just over two cents from seven days ago. Most stations in Greater Saint John are advertising gas for 96.5 today.

Diesel is up almost three cents coming in 95.4, furnace oil takes a jump of almost four cents to 77.1 and propane is only up percentage points at 81.8.

Opposition Calls for Committee to Oversee Refurbishment

The provincial Opposition Leader wants to see a committee set up to to oversee the refurbishment of Point Lepreau. David Alward says continuous delays are costing New Brunswickers more and more. The extra cost of the refurbishment was originally estimated to be about 150 million dollars when the project was five and a half months behind schedule. It is now seven months behind schedule, and said to be completed in early 2010. The project was originally pegged at a cost of 1.4 billion dollars.

Alward has been calling for a non-partisan committee to oversee the work for months. He says such a move will promote transparency and accountability.

Survey on Quality of Life Launched

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation is looking for public feedback on their quality of life in the Port City. An online survey has been released to measure the vitality of our community, identify significant trends, and grade 10 key areas that determine quality of life.

Between July 30th and August 7th, participants will be asked to grade data related to the Gap between Rich and Poor, Safety, Health, and Learning among others.

The Greater Saint John Community Foundation will release its fourth annual report card--Vital Signs 2009--in October. The survey can be found at

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=YuF0ljepi4shMi3BY_2fGucA_3d_3d

School District 6 Supports Education Minister's Transportation Decision

School District Six is breathing a sigh of relief following the Education Minister's decision regarding recommendations from the Coroner's Inquest into the deaths of 7 basketball players and a teacher. Roland Haché announced the recommendation to use Class 2B drivers and school buses for extra-curricular trips will not be enforced. Learning Specialist Paul Smith tells CHSJ news this is good for the district because the restrictions would have made it too expensive and difficult to continue many activities.

Smith says money has not been put ahead of safety and that no school vans will be used to transport students--but--parents will be allowed to help shuttle students to and from nearby activities.

Lotto Ticket Still Unclaimed

One lucky New Brunswicker may not even know he's lucky!! The Atlantic Lottery Corporation says a secondary prize has still not been claimed from the largest advertised jackpot in 6-49's history. The prize is worth 220 thousand dollars and the deadline to claim it is August 8th.

The second prize winning ticket was sold in Westmorland County for the August 8, 2008 6-49 draw that had an advertised 43 million dollar top prize. The jackpot was split two ways with top prize wins in Ontario and Quebec.

Fencing Repairs Completed

You may have noticed some damage to a section of the new wildlife fencing along Route 7 near the Petersville hill -- the fencing was damaged as the result of a single car rollover earlier this month.

A caller to our 648-3000 News line expressed concern the damage could eventually allow moose onto the highway -- we checked with the Transportation Department where a spokesman tells us repairs have been made to the damaged fence and other sections of the fencing damaged by heavy snow and fallen trees over the winter.

And CHSJ News has learned the Department is now developing a policy on maintenance of the fence to outline how often it should be checked and how repairs will be funded.

Update on Charges City Hall is Facing

We have a few more details today as to why City Hall is being charged with a violation of the Water Quality Regulation of the Clean Environment Act. Officials say it is related to a delay in notification by Saint John Water, a condition of its approval to operate, to the Department of Health back on June 29 of last year.

The court date is scheduled for the 13th of next month and the charge was made public yesterday.

Mayor Court Comments on Changes at Paper

No stranger to controversy with the local news-paper, Mayor Ivan Court is commenting today on the dismisal of Jamie Irving and Shawna Richer. Court tells CHSJ News, hopefully the T.J. will turn a page as they provide a valuable service with excellent reporters.

Court and the administration at City Hall have been under heavy scrutiny almost on a daily basis by the paper since taking office last year.

Changes Confirmed At Local Paper

A spokesperson for Brunswick News confirms Jamie Irving is out as publisher of the Telegraph Journal - she also confirms Shawna Richer is no longer editor of the provincial daily.
The vacancies come as the paper published a front page retraction of a story about Prime Minister Harper pocketing a communion wafer during the state funeral for former Governor General Romeo LeBlanc earlier this month -- the story gained national and international attention and Harper called it a low point in journalism.
The paper apologized to Harper and the reporters involved in the story for what it termed unfounded statements being added during the editorial process.
There's no word on replacements for Irving or Richer.

Moosehead Has a Hit on It's Hands

It appears Moosehead Breweries has a hit on it's hands. Moosehead Light Lime is the companies most successful launch of a brand in the past 25 years with 1.2 million bottles sold since June.27th. It was only available here and over on the Island for the first month but cases are being delivered to Nova Scotia this week.

President Andrew Oland says the product has exceeded their expectations and they are thrilled with the response. Production at the brewery has had to increase to meet the demand which means extra shifts for staff. Light Lime is the breweries second new product this year.......Cracked Canoe hit NB Liquor store shelves back in the spring.

Owners say She Supports Association, Not The Levy

Colour Centre owner Dorothy Shepard says she doesn't disapprove of helping move the West Side Business Association forward, she has a problem with the way they are going about it.Shepard says she cannot support something as unstable as a tax or a levy.
Shepard first began voicing her concerns over the proposed levy at the beginning of the month, and has since started circulating a petition to west side businesses asking them to express their approval or opposition.Shepard says rather than shelving the issue if one third of west side business owners oppose the tax, it should only move forward if two thirds support it.

West Side Business Association Continues Pursuit to Pass B-I-A

The West Side Business Association is going to continue to try and have the Business Improvement Area and Levy accepted at common council.At last night's meeting it was put to a vote whether or not the B-I-A is a viable option to pursue--without a single objection.Spokesperson Blaine Harris says a number of the people opposing the proposal were fed wrong information.
Harris says the B-I-A will give west side business owners a voice at the municipal level, and will help the association employ a part time administrator to fight for the west side.

Damaged Wildlife Fencing Fixed

You may have noticed some damage to a section of the new wildlife fencing along Route 7 near the Petersville hill -- the fencing was damaged as the result of a single car rollover earlier this month. A caller to our 648-3000 News line expressed concern the damage could eventually allow moose onto the highway -- we checked with the Transporation Department where a spokesman tells us repairs have been made to the damaged fencing and other sections of the fencing damaged by heavy snow and fallen trees over the winter. And CHSJ News has learned the Department is now developing a policy on maintenance of the fence to outline how often it should be checked and how repairs will be funded.

ILA to take Port Authority to Court

The International Longshoremen's Association have filed a Federal Court Application against the proposed construction of Irving Oil's Headquarters on Long Wharf. Spokesperson, Pat Riley is accusing the Port Authority of giving Irving Oil permission to begin construction on the facility in July. Riley tells CHSJ news he contacted Transport Canada and the construction efforts stopped and that's when he immediately filed court documents opposing the plans.

Riley says the agreement between the Saint John Port Authority and Irving Oil does not comply with federal legislation.

Saint John Port Authority Defends Actions

The Chair of the Saint John Port Authority is refusing to comment on whether or not construction of the Irving Oil Headquarters was really intended to begin in July. Stephen Campbell tells CHSJ news he won't get into specifics while they are before the courts--but--does say he believes they have done everything correctly to get the Long Wharf facility.

Campbell says they will oppose the application in federal court but it may delay progress. The development still needs the blessing of the federal government to allow a land swap between the Port Authority and Irving Oil clearing the way for the complex.

Saint John Man Sentenced For Drug Trafficking

A Saint John man has been sentenced to six years in jail on 10 drug-related charges stemming from an investigation by the RCMP and the Saint John and Rothesay Regional Police. 39-year old Allan Albert was sentenced in court yesterday for charges that include trafficking in cocaine, possession for the purpose of trafficking, and conspiracy to traffic in cocaine and marijuana.

Eight other people were also arrested as part of Operation Junebug and are scheduled to appear in court in August.

Opposition Leader Turns to Premier for Saint John Energy Plan

The Provincial Opposition Leader is calling on the Premier to come out with a plan for the future of Saint John as a major energy player in eastern North America. Irving Oil announced last week it was scrapping plans to build a second refinery in the Port City. David Alward says the Eider Rock project was the cornerstone to the Premier's self sufficiency agenda.

He says its now up to Shawn Graham to bring together all three levels of government with the business and community leaders to determine where we go from here.

A Shake Up at the Local Newspaper After Apology Issued?

Rumours are circulating about some changes at the senior level of the local daily newspaper. While nothing has been confirmed, this morning's edition is missing reference to Jamie Irving as Publisher and Shawna Richer as Editor of the Telegraph Journal -- CHSJ News placed a call to the paper and we have been referred to a Brunswick News spokesman in Moncton who was not immediately available for comment.

This comes after the Telegraph-Journal apologized to Prime Minister Harper for reporting that he slipped a communion wafer in his jacket pocket at a state funeral. The front-page apology published in today's paper says the story on July 8th was "inaccurate and should not have been published.'' Harper has always insisted he ate the wafer at the funeral for former Governor General Romeo LeBlanc.

Associate Journalism Professor Weighs in on Newspaper Apology

Meanwhile, an Associate Journalism Professor at the University of Kings College says the newspaper apology will help vindicate the reporters who wrote the original story. Kelly Toughill tells CHSJ news it's hard to imagine how the inaccurate changes happened without their knowledge.

Toughill also says the apology still leaves a number of questions unanswered--such as how the changes to the original story came about during the editorial process--and--why the reporters weren't notified before the story was published.

Fish Health Lab Opens in St. George

The provincial Fish Health Laboratory in St. George has officially opened today. It is a joint initiative of the province and the Atlantic Veterinary College to prevent disease and improve the health management of aquatic animals. The lab will also be used to support research and train graduate students.

The laboratory on Mount Pleasant Road includes space for fish testing; virus processing; preparation and storage; and data entry.

HomeLess report card is Released

The first report card on homlessness in the Province has been released and the numbers may shock you. 2300 people have no place to call home and last year, more than 1,100 people stayed in a shelter around the Province. The numbers were added up by the Greater Saint John Homelessness Steering Committee and is the final in a series of report cards released by other communities in the province this year.

The first Homelessness Report Card is a collaborative effort of five homeless networks set up around the Province.

City of Saint John Facing Charges Against Province

Officials in Saint John are scheduled to make their first appearance in provincial court on Aug. 13 to respond to a charge that it violated the Water Quality Regulation of The Clean Environment Act. The Department of Environment alleges that between June 29 and June 30 of last year, the city failed to comply with a term or condition of an Approval to Operate drinking water distribution and treatment facilities.

The province will not give us any further details into the charge saying it is a confidential matter until the charge is read in court next month.

All Milk Cartons Can Now Be Recycled

After working out a deal with the New Brunswick Milk Dealers Association, cardboard milk cartons can now be recycled. This is all part of a new intiative being launched by the Fundy Region Solid waste Commission during the first two weeks of next month. It will see a new five to three bin sorting facility and Public Education Officer Brenda MacCallum tells CHSJ News, trucks will be able to pick-up more product.

The plastic jugs and bags were always recycable. There are close to 1.9 million cardboard milk cartons sold in this region.

Another Bear is on the Loose

Officials with the Department of Natural Resources are keeping an eye out for a bear in the Geary area just outside of Oromocto. Several home-owners have called our news-room to report the animal roaming in their back-yards. DNR tells us they have also received a few calls about the animal and there is a trap set up in the area.

The amount of calls they have received is normal for this time of the year and the bear is spotted when garbage and compost days come around. The bear that was keeping home-owners on the West Side on alert had to be shot.

Interchange Work Will Continue Despite Refinery Decision

Irving Oil's decision to shelve its proposed second refinery in Red Head won't have any impact on plans to complete the One Mile Interchange.
The 58-million dollar project will connect the throughway with Bayside Drive eliminating a lot of heavy truck traffic from city streets.
A Transportation Department spokesman says the work on the interchange was never directly linked to the refinery proposal -- and -- a second round of contracts for relocation of utilities and bridge substructure work should be awarded soon.
The interchange is scheduled for completion in 2012 -- around the same time as the Welsford Bypass portion of Route 7 now under construction.

West Side Business Group Holding Emergency Session

Tuesday night's emergency meeting of the Saint John West Business Association may prove to be lively -- the group called the meeting after common council tabled a decision on creating a Business Improvement Area and levy -- some councilors appear to be against the efforts.
Association spokesman Blaine Harris tells CHSJ News there will be copies of the B-I-A's proposed budget available.
Harris says the executive is looking for direction from business owners and the community about how to proceed given the apparent friction around the council table.
The open meeting is being held in the Community Room at Sobey's West beginning at seven.

More Security Needed At Rockwood Park

The Chair of the Rockwood Park Board of Directors says parking, more programs from Leisure Services, and increased security are the top priorities for Rockwood Park.Robert Capson says the public sees the park as unsafe because of incidents that occurred several years ago, and says city police need to have their presence known.Capson says the perception of criminal activity in the park is overblown, and it will be hard to eliminate crime in the park.
Capson says he can remember the days when an officer would travel around the park on horseback, which the tourists loved, and he would like to see happen again.He says he understands the cost of an officer on horseback would be high, and suggests maybe having officers on motorcycles or bicycles patrolling the park.

Rockwood Park Looking To Start Phase II of Development

$3.4 million dollars is the price tag for the second phase of development at Rockwood Park.The city has contributed $1 million dollars to the park in this years budget, and the Saint John Horticultural Association is handing over the $1.2 million dollars allotted to them.The Directors of the park would like to stress that so far the project has $2.2 million dollars without any debt, and has raised the issue of funding with Tourism Minister Stuart Jameison and Saint John M-P Rodney Weston.At a Committee of the Whole meeting last night, Rockwood Park officials were asking common council to either come up with some funding, or help them take their case to the federal and provincial government.

Pride Festival Week No Longer Cancelled for 2009

This year's Pride Week Celebrations have been revived. Earlier this month The Board of Directors decided to pull the plug on the festival because many events were not yet confirmed. An independent group representing the gay community, in conjunction with Element Dance Bar, has taken the festival under its wings and will hold the celebrations August 9th until August 16th.

Several events are scheduled during the week-long festival, including the Flag Raising Ceremony at City Hall and the Pride Parade. A link to the list of planned events can be online at http://www.elementdancebar.ca/events.html

Economist Says Second Refinery A Good Idea in the Future

A prominent economist with the University of Alberta says now is not the time to add capacity to refining operations and Irving Oil made the right decision to halt plans for its proposed second refinery. Andre Plourde tells CHSJ News more people are buying smaller, fuel efficient and hybrid vehicles--but--adds, that doesn't mean a second refinery won't be a good idea in the future. He says for the most part those actions are short-term.

Plourde says the drop in demand for refined petroleum is cyclical in nature and in the long term there will be a return in increased demand as the economy rebounds from the recession.

Environmental Damage Being Assessed After Fuel Leak

The Department of Environment is investigating a diesel fuel leak into a waterway off Grandview Avenue near Hickey Road. The city's hazmat team was called in to clean up the spill earlier this afternoon. A dump truck overturned after colliding with a car around two o'clock spilling 200 litres of fuel---about 75 litres of which leaked into the ditch.

District Fire Chief William Johnstone tells CHSJ news crews damned the water around the spill so soil samples could be taken for analysis by the Environment Department. Both drivers were taken to hospital with unknown injuries.

Man Dies in ATV Crash

A 46 year old man is dead after an All Terrain Vehicle collision near Route 134 near Belldune. RCMP say the man from Charlo died at the scene as a result of his injuries. He lost control of the ATV while driving on a dirt road.

Hazmat Team Called to Dump Truck Crash

The city's Hazardous Materials team is on the scene of a fuel leak on Latimore Lake Road. A dump truck overturned after colliding with a car around two o'clock this afternoon and about 200 litres of fuel has already poured into a nearby waterway.

Officials with the provincial Works Department and the Department of Transportation were both called in to help stop the leak and clean it up. So far, no word on the environmental impact of the spill and if there were any injuries.

Police Seek Public Help in Locating Robber

City police are turning to the public for help finding a man they believe is responsible for at least two attempted robberies. A man described as being Caucasian, in his early to mid twenties, five-foot eight, weighing 150 pounds with a black scruffy beard tried to rob Fundy Heights Convenience Store last Friday night.

Sgt. Pat Bonner tells CHSJ news they believe the same man also tried to rob Sandy Point Grocery that night. The would-be robber was last seen wearing a brown zippered hoodie. Anyone with information is asked to contact Saint John Police. Just the night before on Thursday July 23rd, there was an attempted robbery at the Dooly's in Martinon and a robbery at the Park Plaza Motel. No word on whether they are believed to be connected.

Premier Optimistic About Energy Hub Future

Premier Shawn Graham says there are plenty of other energy-related projects going on in the province to off-set the loss of the proposed second Irving Oil refinery. Graham says the province has worked very hard to position itself as the energy hub of the Eastern Seaboard.

Graham notes successes with the natural gas plant, wind power projects, and plans for a second nuclear reactor. The private sector is currently looking for partners in the permitting process.

The premier was speaking by phone from the Southeastern United States–Canadian Provinces Alliance conference in St. John’s, Newfoundland. Graham says memorandum of understanding was signed today that should lead to greater opportunities in the aerospace industry. This evening, the premier will be at the Fox Harb'r Resort in Nova Scotia for a dinner and networking session hosted by former New Brunswick premier and ambassador Frank McKenna. Former U.S. president George W. Bush is said to be attending today's event.

Romero House Funding Drive Continues

Details on a plan of action for Romero House continue to be finalized. We should find out the details this week on what will be going on to raise funds for the facility now and in the future. Committee Chair Paul Zed tells CHSJ News, the amount of support they have already received is out-standing.

Zed says they are getting cheques from as far away as Moncton to ensure the facility remains open. Last week, the Graham Government kick-started the fund-raising effort with a ten thousand dollar cheque.

More Talk About Youth Home in Quispamsis

The Chief of Police with the Rothesay Regional Force has no concerns about a youth home for at risk teens opening in Quispamsis. That goes against how many home-owners in the neighbourhood feel who are concerned about their children and plummeting property values. Chief MacIntyre tells CHSJ News, the operators of the home did not have to consult with them before making their application.

Chief MacIntyre says he will treat the Youth Home just like every other home-owner that falls in their jurisdiction. The home for at risk teens is scheduled to open this fall.

Rothesay Also Reacts to Irving Oil News

Reaction continues to roll in three days after Irving Oil announced it was putting on hold it's plan for a second refinery. Rothesay Mayor Bill Bishop tells CHSJ News, it would have been nice but the Town did not hitch it's wagon to this star.

Bishop adds it important the Greater Saint John Community remain optimistic with several announcements to be rolled out soon.

Grand Bay Westfield on Irving Announcment

Reaction to the news in Grand Bay-Westfield is as you would expect.......disappointment. Mayor Grace Losier tells CHSJ News, she isn't putting a lot of stock into the fact this proposal has been put on the back burner and not moth-balled.

Losier says the Town did not hitch all of their future fortune on this proposal but she is very hopeful that a second reactor at Point Lepreau can fill up space in their new sub-division.

Fire at Junkyard Last Night

Major Crime has been called after six or seven vehicles were set on fire last night. Officers and the fire department arrived at Wrecks Unlimited at 3 Cottage Road just before eleven o'clock last night. They found several vehicles lighting up the night sky and some small explosions due to the intense heat of the flames.

Nobody was hurt and police are calling the fires suspicious.

Council Also Meets at City Hall

City councilors return to city hall shortly after the presenations at the Lily Lake Pavillion. Ersnt and Young will be presenting the city's audited financial statements for last year. Up for review are the city's general fund, water and sewerage fund and the reserve and trust funds.

Deputy Mayor Stephen Chase is asking the amounts be approved by council following the presentation.

Council Meets at Rockwood Park

City councilors are changing the scenary for tonight's Committee of the Whole Meeting. At 5:30, they will gather at the Lily Lake Pavilion to receive a presentation about Rockwood Park. Chair Robert Capson will ask to consider increasing the amount of programs from Leisure Services to be held at the park. Capson will also ask for increased security at the park--due to some people thinking the trails of Rockwood are unsafe to walk or bike because of incidents such as after hours drinking, sexual misconduct and a murder two years ago.

Council will also be hear from the Saint John Horticultural Association with a few suggestions on improving Rockwood Park.

Manning Remains Upbeat About Economic Future

(Enterprise Saint John chair Bob Manning - file photo)

Enterprise Saint John chair Bob Manning is remaining upbeat despite last week's word Irving Oil would not proceed with its eight billion dollar refinery in the Red Head area.

He tells CHSJ News our energy hub has made a mark on the international stage -- and -- the world knows we're investment friendly.

Manning calls last week's announcement an injection of reality -- but -- he says it's also a chance to focus on secondary opportunities presented by the availability of natural gas such as advanced manufacturing companies.

Research Shows Little Correlation Between Deer and the Spread of Lyme Disease

Research shows there is no correlation between decreasing the deer population in the area and the potential risk of Lyme disease. Dr. Scott Giffin says there have been studies conducted about the relationship between lyme disease and deer and some but not all show reducing the amount of deer does not have an impact.

Dr. Giffin says black legged ticks are famously known to be carried on deers, but they also move around on the white footed mouse---generally found in the brush of wooded areas.

M-L-A Says Deer Need to Be Studied

Saint John Portland M-L-A Trevor Holder wants the department of health and natural resources to find out if deer populations are connected to the spread of lyme disease. Holder says he's not saying to take action to reduce the amount of deer in Millidgeville---he just wants some research to be done.
Holder says he lives in Millidgeville and knows there are a lot of deer in the area. He says since there are confirmed ticks with the lyme disease bacteria in the area, research needs to be done.

No More Idlying in Quispamsis

After discussing it over the past few months.....the Town of Quispamsis has implemented a new anti-idlying bylaw for it's fleet of vehicles. Deputy Mayor Emil Olsen tells CHSJ News, this is a good policy for the town and it's residents.
Some of the new rules include no warming up a vehicle for more than ten minutes in the winter and no longer than a minute in sring, summer and fall. Vehicles are also encouraged to avoid drive-thrus.

Police Incident

City police keeping tight lipped about an incident in the uptown area early this morning.Around 3 o'clock police picked up a man who had a weapon.No confirmation of what type of weapon, or what happened as Major Crimes investigates.
No word on whether or not the arrest is in relation to the six robberies, and five attempted robberies over the last three weeks.

City Talking To Port About West Side Soccer Pitch

City staff will be meeting with the Port Authority in an attempt to obtain an agreement for some land needed for a new soccer pitch.
The city wants to upgrade the field next to the Carleton Community Center on the west side -- but -- the Port owns a piece of the land needed for the project.
Acting city manager Pat Woods says work can't begin until the city gets ownership of that piece of property or has an agreement in place with the Port for long term access to it.
Total cost of the new soccer field is estimated to be in the eight to ten thousand dollar range.

Concrete In - Granite Out On Princess Street

(New curbing already in place on Princess Street - photo by Gary MacDonald)

Work on the Princess Street upgrade won't be coming to a halt over proposed installation of granite curbing.

Common council has accepted a recommendation to reject a bid by the Heritage Board and Uptown Saint John to have granite curbing reinstalled along the street.

A report by city staff says that would cause delays and add more than 300-thousand dollars to the cost the of project.

But the city will sit down with reps from both groups and try to review the curbing standard for future street upgrades in the Trinity Royal area.

Thief Continues to make the Rounds in the Metro

City Police continue to get frustrated and business owners nervous after two more attempted robberies in the city last night. Officers were called to Fundy Heights Convenience just before 9:30pm. The clerk told them a man with a slim build and wearing a brown hoodie walked in and demanded cash. She refused and he left.

Less than a half hour later, a man fitting the same description walked into Sandys Convenience on the Sandy Point Road and also demanded cash. The clerk also turned him down and he ran off into the night. There have been six robberies and five attempted robberies in the metro over the last three weeks.

Water Pipe Breaks at 300 Union Street

There is quite a mess to clean up at 300 Union Street today after one of the building's main water pipes burst last night. City Fire Crews were called to the building last night at 9:30pm to find water pouring onto the ground floor of the building. This was affecting the mechanical rooms and power to most of the building had to be shut down.

The City Water department had to be called in to shut down the broken pipe. Fire Crews spent four and half hours trying to get the water out of the building. No word on what caused the pipe to burst.

Board Of Trade Chair Say Decision No Surprise

The chair of the Board of Trade says it's time for the community to pull together in the wake of the disappointing news on Irving's proposed second refinery.
Kathy Craig tells CHSJ News the decision shouldn't have come as a real surprise because a lot has changed in the global marketplace since the refinery proposal was first announced.
Craig is taking some heart from the fact the company will continue with the permitting process for the refinery proposal.

Weston Upbeat Despite Refinery Announcement

Saint John M-P Rodney Weston remains optimistic Irving Oil's proposed second refinery in Red Head will eventually become a reality as the U-S economy begins to rebound from the recession.
And Weston says discussions between Irving and government officials about potential funding have been positive -- but -- no commitments have been made at this point.
Irving announced yesterday it was shelving plans for the 300-thousand barrel a day refinery because of market conditions -- the company is continuing with the permitting process and will revisit the project as market conditions improve.

Grand Manan Ferry Service Returns To Normal

(Grand Manan V - photo courtesy Department of Transportation)

Good news for residents and tourists heading for Grand Manan -- Coastal Transport is reporting both ferries are now operating.

The Grand Manan Five had been tied up since earlier this week due to mechanical problems resulting in long line ups and delays.

Fisheries Minister Rick Doucette actually helped to ferry people back and forth at the height of the problem.

The Graham government is working to get a new 65-million dollar replacement vessel built.

Atlantica Center Head Remains Positive

The president of the Atlantica Center for Energy says the announcement isn't the end of our energy hub.
Tim Curry says Irving will continue to invest in its existing refinery as well as a new waterfront office complex -- and -- he says we have Canada's first liquefied natural gas terminal and we have substantial electricity production with the potential for more to come on line.
Curry also says having "B-P" partner with Irving has helped to attract more international exposure for this region's energy hub.

Mayor Court On Eider Rock

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

Mayor Ivan Court says he can see why Irving Oil decided to not proceed with the Eider Rock project because of the economy.Court says there will still be jobs for people in this city even without the second refinery. He says Peel Plaza, and waterfront development will create many jobs.Court says the city did have one concern about the proposed Irving project.
Court says a concern the city had for the project was infrastructure cost. He says the city doesn't have the capital to invest, and would have had to rely on the provincial and federal government.He says the city wouldn't get any tax revenue from the project until the infrastructure was already up.
Court says since the E.I.A has just gone through, this project may resurface when the economy is in better shape.

Energy Minister Says "It's Not the End of the World"

[Elected Officials at the Irving Oil Newser------Photo by Jim Hennessy]

Energy Minister Jack Keir says he's disappointed about the news today, but says it's not the end of the world.Keir says the energy hub is alive and real in this city, and the refinery is not the only part of it.
Keir says while the refinery would have been a big part of Saint John being an energy hub, there are still other opportunities.

Enterprise Saint John Chair Reassures City

Enterprise Saint John Chair Bob Manning is assuring the city that Irving Oil not going forward with the Eider Rock Project does not mean the sky is falling.Manning says this city has been isolated from the economic downturn seen throughout the world, with strong performances in all priority growth sectors, such as work at the Tucker Park campus, the new cruise terminal, and the Peel Plaza project.Manning says this announcement cannot damper the city's relationship with Irving Oil, and like all relationships, we must take the good with the bad.
Manning says Irving is our home team, and we will continue to support them, as they continue to support us.

Irving Oil and BP Will Not Proceed With Second Refinery

Irving Oil and British Petroleum are not moving forward with the proposed second refinery.Irving spokesperson Kevin Scott says due to the economic downturn, and a decrease in demand for petroleum, the project cannot move forward.
Scott says in the current petroleum marketplace, an 8 billion dollar project is not viable.
Scott says Irving will continue the environmental permitting processes relating to the Eider Rock project to preserve future options if the market were to return to previous levels.

Irving Oil Set To Announce Decision On Second Refinery

An announcement on Irving Oil's proposed second refinery will be made this morning during a hastily called news conference.
The company is billing it as "word regarding an investment decision" for the proposed Eider Rock refinery project.
Speculation on the street in the past 12-hours is pointing to the project's star fading -- and -- that could have a significant impact on the development of the energy hub.
The news conference is set for 11 at the Delta.

Wet and Wild Start to the Weekend

If you get a few minutes today, it might not be a bad idea to stack your patio furniture and tuck it to the side of your home. Environment Canada has posted a warning for some wild weather this weekend. They are tracking a system developing over the Atlantic south of New York. It will lie over Maine today and expected to make the shift into our area today and tonight.

Rain at times is expected to be heavy and howling winds approaching gale force near the coast. Forecaster's tell us with this kind of combination, there could be flooding in some low lying area's. The full forecast is coming up shortly.

Another Busy Night for City Police

Thieves continue to target businesses in Greater Saint John. There was an attempted robbery and robbery last night. The first call for City Police was to Dooly's in Martinon just before 9:30pm on a report a man walked into the pool hall and demanded cash from the clerk. Some of the people playing pool tried to tackle the guy but he got away. Just over two hours later, officers were called to the Park Plaza Motel. A man walked in to the front desk area, demanded cash from the clerk, grabbed a handful and took off.

The clerk wasn't hurt and no word yet on whether these incidents are connected. There have been six robberies and four attempted robberies of businesses in Greater Saint John over the past three weeks.