New Equipment For The Regional and St. Joseph's Hospital

[Health Minister Mary Schryer---Photo by Dave Briggs]

The provincial government is announcing 4 major investments in new diagnostic imaging equipment across the province.
Health Minister Mary Schryer says $13 million dollars has been earmarked for new MRI machines for hospitals in Saint John, Moncton, Edmundston and Bathurst.
Schryer says it's a joint announcement so it can all go into the same Request for Proposal.
Schryer says the province is also fronting the operational costs for new cat scan equipment for St. Josephs Hospital. Schryer says the St. Josephs Foundation raised the money to purchase the machinery, and to alleviate costs it will go on the same R-F-P as the MRI machines.

Saint John Energy to Receive Tax Rebate

[Energy Minister Jack Keir----Photo by Dave Briggs]

Saint John Energy and other municipal utilities will receive a million dollar a year rebate each year on their utility taxes to help them cope with a five year rate freeze as part of the deal to sell parts of NB Power to Hydro Quebec. Provincial Energy Minister Jack Keir says this answers their big concern.

Mayor Ivan Court, who has been silent on the proposed agreement, is now voicing his support saying it will be good for the city.

East Saint John Bar Broken Into

One person is behind bars awaiting a court appearance after a break and enter early this morning at Chuckle's Lounge in Parkway Mall. A window was broken shortly after midnight when the lounge was closed but an employee had not gone home yet. The suspect was arrested at the scene.

Wife and Family Welcome Home Fallen Officer

(Sargeant Mark Gallagher)
(File Photo From RCMP)

Plenty of emotions were on display in Moncton this afternoon as the body of Sgt. Mark Gallagher was brought home. His wife Lisa read a statement to reporters thanking the hundreds of people who have signed condolence books either in person or online. She admits It may be a little while before we are able to read them but we look forward to the day that we can sit down as a family and read all the wonderful things people remember about Mark.


She thanked everyone for their kind words and thoguths and closed with "Mark, our hero, is back home. A Regimental Funeral will be held on Thursday in Woodstock.

Federal Government Looking for Input

[Fundy Royal M-P Rob Moore----File Photo]

The Federal Government is putting out the call to residents to help shape the upcoming budget.
Small Business and Tourism Minister Rob Moore met with business and community leaders in Sussex to hear their views of developing and implementing Canada's Economic Action Plan.
Moore says goal is to attract investment and create jobs once the plan is put in place.
To submit any ideas for the federal budget check out this link.
The budget is scheduled be to tabled on March 4th.

NB Power is on Stand By

NB Power is also on on stand-by for what-ever this weather system might bring. Spokes-person Heather McLean tells CHSJ News, freezing rain gives the public utility plenty of grief in many ways:

McLean adds knock on wood, the winter hasn't been all that bad but it is still January and winter is far from over.

Saint John Energy Ready for Bad Weather

Saint John Energy crews are on stand-by with rain, freezing rain and high winds in the forecast for the next 24 hours. President Eric Marr tells CHSJ News, with gusts expected to reach up to 90km/hour, crews are told to use best discretion if any climbing is necessary:
Marr adds so far this winter, Saint John Energy has been lucky with no major power outages because of storms.

City Works Crews Ready for Winter Blast Today

With 30mm's of rain in the forecast and plenty of snow left-over from last weeks storm, the concern for many home-owners is flooding. City Works Crews have been out all weekend breaking down piles and making sure strom drains are clear. Deputy Commissioner of Municipal Operations Kevin Rice tells CHSJ News, so far, this winter compared with the previous two, hasn't been that bad:

Rice says the City has several area's of concern when it comes to flooding and drainage including Glen Falls, Millidgeville and the West Side.

District 6 Superintendent Stands Behind School Closure Decision

[Superintendent Zoe Watson----File Photo]

Officials in District Six say the threat of ice pellets early this morning was their reasoning for shutting down schools for the day. Superintendent Zoe Watson tells CHSJ News, it's not perfect but they do the best they can with what they have:

This is the first storm day of the 2009-2010 school year for District Six and Watson says thats much better than last year when they had eight or nine.

District 8 Receives Feedback on School Closure

[Superintendent Susan Tipper---File Photo]

Officials in District Eight are taking some heat from parents who are asking..."Why was school cancelled?" With freezing rain in the forecast for the early morning run, officials felt it was the right call as there were a pair of accidents involving school buses during last weeks snow storm. Superintendent Susan Tipper tells CHSJ News, they made a mistake last week.
Tipper adds high school exams were scheduled to get started today so that made the decision twice as tough. This is the first storm day cancellation of this school year for the district.

Charlotte County Hospital Gets Provincial Funding

[Premier Shawn Graham----File Photo]

Premier Graham showed up in St. Stephen today with a cheque for close to $1.4 million dollars to set up a satellite dialysis unit at the Charlotte County Hospital. The money will allow a new dialysis unit with five hemodialysis stations operating three days a week, 12 hours per day, with a capacity to serve 10 patients.

It should be up and running by early next year.

RCMP Raid in Sussex

The RCMP in Sussex have arrested a 52 year old man after searching a home on Manitoba Road In Searsville. They seized three weapons that were not secured properly and a quantity of marijuana. The person arrested will make a court appearance later.

They're also investigating the theft of 6 winter jackets and parkas from a store on Main Street in Sussex. The coats were valued at more than 14 hundred dollars.

Fire in Sussex

A vehicle and garage were destroyed by fire yesterday in Knightville. Sussex RCMP along with the Petitcodiac and the Havelock Fire Departments were called to a home on the Knightville Road yesterday afternoon just after two o'clock. A 72-year old man was working on his Cavalier when it caught fire. No charges will be laid.

Sussex RCMP are still looking into a crash on Saturday involving two snow-mobiles. It was just after three in the afternoon when they were called to an area near Tennants Cove to find a 43-year old man from Rothesay hit a 40-year old man from Quispamsis on the Saint John River. Both were treated at the hospital but officers think one or both of the drivers may have been drinking.

Break and Enters Around the City

The major Crime Unit is on the case after several break and enters were reported over the weekend and this morning. In all cases, the front doors were smashed open at Vivaldi's and Stirling Apples on Rothesay Avenue, J-F Taylor on Bayside Drive, I-C-S Courier Services on Industrial Drive and Maritime Industrial Machines. Police suspect those responsible were looking for cold cash because nothing was taken.

NB Power Board of Directors Supports New Deal

The NB Power Power board of directors fully support the sale of it's assets to Hydro Quebec.

The board received a full briefing on the revised deal on Friday, and say under the proposed arrangement power rates for residents will be lower than the utility could set them.
In supporting the deal, the board recognizes the change and corporate re-organization raises concerns for customers and employees, and it's the board and managements responsibility to work closely with employees when facing these challenges.

Nursing Home Workers Ratify New Contract

About 4 thousand nursing home workers in the province have a new deal with big raises. Under the four-year contract just ratified, some workers will receive more than a 30 per cent increase. The average wage hike over the life of the contract is 22 per cent. The contract also includes better job security. The New Brunswick Council of Nursing Home Unions says the deal achieves wage parity with hospital workers who provide similar services in the province.

Premier In St. Stephen Talking Health and Senior Care

Premier Shaun Graham kicks off the new work week with a stop in St. Stephen. He will deliver a speech at Lincourt Manor to discuss the impact of the recently delivered budget on health and senior care around the Province. This includes new details about infrastructure, program investments, and labour issues. Things gets started at ten o'clock. Before arriving in St. Stephen, the Premier will make a quick stop in St. Andrews to present a New Brunswick flag to a family who has recently moved back to the Province. That gets started at nine.

New Grand Manan Ferry

A news conference is scheduled for this afternoon that will give us an update on the new Grand Manan ferry. $65 million dollars was set aside for the new vessel back in the spring of last year by a boat building firm in Florida. The new ferry will have a capacity for 82 vehicles and will replace the current 25 vehicle ferry.
The 60 vehicle vessel will remain on the water with the new ferry to be finished by next year. Today's news conference gets started at one o'clock at Grand Manan School with Premier Graham and Fisheris Minister Rick Doucet taking part.

Sargeant Gallagher makes His Final Trip Home

Sgt. Mark Gallagher makes his final trip home tomorrow (Monday, Jan.25th/2010.) After being killed in the Haiti earthquake, his body will arrive at the Moncton Airport tomorrow afternoon at 2:15pm. The ramp ceremony is closed to the public but media is permited on the tarmac.

Gallagher's body will then be escorted to Woodstock where his funeral will be held. First Responders including RCMP, municipal police and other emergency personnell will set-up a “Highway of Heroes” along the Trans Canada Highway to pay their respects at various locations. An RCMP Regimental Funeral will be held on Thursday in Woodstock.

Protest in Uptown Saint John

                 (Protestors in Front of City Market)
                        (Photo by Dave Briggs)

Close to 60 people braved the cold to take part in a rally yesterday in front of the City Market. They carried signs and chanted against Prime Minister Harper's decision to shut down Parliment until March. Joan Pearce is the organizer and tells CHSJ News, the Harper Conservatives have become quite arrogrant.


Pearce adds she really wants to work on changing how we vote and see if more young people will start to come out and cast a ballot. Other demonstrations were held across Atlantic Canada including Moncton, Fredericton, Charloteetown and Halifax.

Small Building Fire in Uptown Saint John

Nobody hurt and damage was minimal after City Fire Crews were called to a building in the uptown this morning. It was just after 4:30am when they arrived at 149 MeckLenburg Street to find a hallway full of smoke. A few of the tenants had the small fire under control and the building was evacuated to air it out.

 City Police did take one person away in handcuffs but no word at this point whether charges will be laid.

Supply and Services Releases It's Budget

(Supply and Services Minister Ed Doherty)
               (File Photo)

The provincial government is deciding how to spend it's $386 million dollars worth of design and construction projects for this year. Supply and Services Minister Ed Doherty says most of the spending will be towards the Education, Health and Traning and Labour portfolios in an effort to stimulate the economy and create jobs.

New investments include $3.8 million to upgrade the province's network of radio towers, which support the communications system for emergency first responders and $4.75 million for various improvements to Supply and Services buildings. The departments regular account budget is up 2.5 per cent this year compared to last.

Emergency Measures Releases Survey

The results of a baseline survey on Emergency Preparedness in Saint John were released this week. Murielle Provost of EMO tells CHSJ News, the survey found most people turn to the radio first in a crisis.


The survey also found 95 per cent of Saint Johners think the city has a responsibility to prepare for emergencies.

Green Party Continues It's Search for Candidates

(Green Party Leader Jack McDougall)
                (File Photo)

The Green Party continues the fight against the sale of NB Power to Hydro Quebec. It released it's energy platform earlier this week and Leader Jack McDougall tells CHSJ News, the focus right now isn't getting wrapped up in winning seats but having enough candidates.


McDougall says one thing he isn't doing is counting out Premier Graham who is very resilient.

Mayor Court Puts Out the Call for Saint Johner's to Vote

(Saint John Mayor Ivan Court)
         (File Photo)

Mayor Court is asking everyone to vote repeatedly to get Saint John on the new Canadian city edition of Monopoly. Ivan Court says as the countries first incorporated city, we should be the best property on the board and that is Boardwalk.

The Mayor is suggesting everyone log onto the Hasbro website and vote often, and repeatedly. The game is scheduled to be released this summer. To cast a vote check out our website country94.ca for the link

Possible Gunfire in Fredericton Junction

Little is known about an incident this morning in Fredericton Junction allegedly involving gunfire.

A tip to our newsroom tells us that around 7:30 this morning there were shots fired in a residential neighbourhood.
So far RCMP have not confirmed an incident, but a resident tells CHSJ New the area has been buzzing with RCMP presence.
No word on any injuries.

Protesting Parliament Proroguing

If you don't think Parliment should be shut down, your invited to a rally this afternoon and make your voice heard. What started out as a Facebook Group has grown into a day of protest from coast to coast. The event in Saint John is being organized by Joan Pearce who tells CHSJ News, it's easy to sign your name on-line but another to get out and make your voice heard: The rally gets started at one o'clock at the Germain Street entrance of the City Market.

Work Continues for Saint John M-P

[Saint John M-P Rodney Weston---File Photo]

The MP for Saint John is looking at the glass as half full with the Federal Conservatives still taking heat about Parliment being shut down. Rodney Weston tells CHSJ News, you don't have to be in Ottawa to get work done for your constituents:

Weston adds an example of still getting work done even with Parliment shut down is how quickly this country responded with aid to the crisis in Haiti.

Victim of Sackville gas explosion identified

RCMP have confirmed the identity of a man killed in a vehicle collision in Sackville
on Tuesday.
23-year-old Alexander Burden died of injuries he sustained when his vehicle collided with a gas reservoir at the Sackville Public Works building.
Foul play has been ruled out.

Saint John store collects shoes for earthquake survivors

Anyone with extra shoes in Saint John that wants to help out the people of Haiti, can drop them off tomorrow.
The Soft Moc location in McAllister Place is accepting shoe donations tomorrow.
The footwear will sent on the earthquake survivors in Haiti.

Alward Puts Forward Motion

(Conservative Leader David Alward)
               (File Photo)

A motion for full dis-closure of the latest Memorandum of Understanding involving NB Power and Hydro Quebec has been brought forward in the Legislature. Conservative leader David Alward is looking for the Graham Government to commit to releasing the details of the latest MOU at least 30 days prior to it being signed. Alward tells CHSJ News, the focus of his party remains getting this proposal scrapped.


Alward adds the contract will be signed March 31st but the Graham government says they will not make public the full contract until after it is signed.

Update for Grand Manan Ferry Coming Monday

An update on the new Grand Manan Ferry will be announced at a news conference Monday. $65 million dollars was set aside for the new vessel back in the spring of last year by a boat building firm in Florida. The new ferry will have a capacity for 82 vehicles and will replace the current 25 vehicle ferry.


The 60 vehicle vessel will remain on the water with the new ferry to be finished by next year. Monday's news conference gets started at one o'clock at Grand Manan School with Premier Graham and Fisheris Minister Rick Doucet taking part.

Another Big Year for the Saint John Airport

(Airport President Bernie Leblanc)
            (File Photo)

It was another big year at the Saint John Airport. Year-end traffic figures came in at 222,310 – up 12% from 1999 when the Airport was privatized but down from a high of 245,102 in 2008. President Bernie Leblanc tells CHSJ News, they are very pleased with the bottom line.


Leblanc says there are several reasons for the growing numbers including the start up of WestJet and Sunwing service, additional summer flights offered by Air Canada and the growing local economy.

Irving Oil Jet Makes Trips to Haiti

(The First Dartmouth Medical Team to Leave for Haiti)
               (Photo Courtesy of Irving Oil)

Irving Oil is donating more than just cash to the relief efforts in Haiti. The companies corporate jet has made two flights to the country this week delivering $125,000 dollars in medical supplies and trauma care teams. Dale Hackett is the Chief Pilot who organized both trips and tells CHSJ News, both teams were anxious to get to work.

Hackett adds they weren't able to land in Port au Prince and had to be diverted to Santo Damingo. Irving Oil has already donated $50,000 dollars to the relief efforts and will match all fund-raising currently underway by company employee's.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  (The Second Medical Team Leaving New Hampshire)
                 (Photo Courtesy of Irving Oil)

Military Training

Soldiers from CFB Gagetown will be taking part in driver training in a few different localities starting today. If you live in Gagetown, Blissville, Welsford and Petersville, you can expect to see military personnel and vehicles. The Military doesn't expect the movement and activity of the soldiers and their vehicles to be too disruptive. The training begins today and continues until the 29th.

High Number of Vehicles Towed in City

There might be some confusion over the city's new bylaw as it applies to a no parking ban after a storm. Without having an exact number, City Police tell CHSJ News alot of vehicles have been towed since the ban went into effect at 11 last night. Police do say 69 vehicles were ticketed city wide. According to the bylaw, no parking on the street extends to most of the city, not just the south central peninsula.

Group Opposed to NB Power Deal Wants Referendum

Put NB People First are continuing their efforts to get a referendum vote for the proposed sale of NB Power to Hydro Quebec.
Spokesperson Bethany Thorne Dykstra says by holding a referendum it will give members of the liberal cabinet who oppose the sale a way out.
Dykstra says anyone who says the new deal is better, such as Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Danny Williams, they are looking after their own vested interests.
She says under the new deal Quebec has exclusive rights to the transmission line heading into New England. She says it sounds better, but doesn't believe it's changed.
So far the Put NB People First petition has over 3000 thousand signatures.

Put NB People First Spokesperson Bethany Thorne Dykstra Discussing New Deal

Students at Saint John High Helping Out

     (A Haitian Child Being Given Medical Attention)
                          (File Photo)

It is not just businesses in Greater Saint John looking to help those suffering in Haiti. A group at Saint John High, Club Hope, is selling pizza and pop during the lunch hour with all of the moey raised going to doctors with-out borders. Maggie Higgins is part of the group and tells CHSJ News, their student advisor, Lynn Kristofferson came up with the idea.


Higgins adds today was the first day of the sale and they will continue it for a few more.

Award Winners are Announced

(Leah Richardson and Saint John East MLA Roly MacIntyre)
                   (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

Saint John East MLA Roly MacIntyre and UNB Saint John student Leah Richardson are being honored by the YM-YWCA. MacIntyre is the recipient of this years Red Triangle Award winner and Richardson is the Leader to Watch winner. Richardson tells CHSJ News, this is a great honor. MacIntyre tells CHSJ News, this is nice recognition with nine months left to go in his political career.


Both awards will be handed out April.22nd at the Trade and Convention Center and you can get tickets by calling 634-4937.

Old Downey Ford Building has a New Tenant

You may have noticed there is some activity in the former Downey Ford building on Crown Street, well so did we and here is what we can tell you. Murray O'Conner is the General Manager of the dealership and tells CHSJ News, the company still owns the property on Crown Street and a new tenant is ready to set up shop.


At this point how-ever, O'Conner says they aren't ready to tell everyone who they are and when they will be open for business. The property was vacated for the new dealership on Consumers Drive five years ago.

RCMP Officers Return Home

 (Sargeant Mark Gallagher)
(Photo Supplied by RCMP)

It will be a sad day for the RCMP tomorrow as the bodies of two of their fallen colleagues are brought home. Superintendent Doug Coates and Sergeant Mark Gallagher will arrive on a flight in Trenton tomorrow afternoon at three o'clock after being killed in last weeks earthquake in Haiti.


The family of Sgt. Gallagher has requested a RCMP Regimental Funeral to take place in Woodstock but a date and time are still being finalized.

Parking Ban for South Central Peninsula

City Works crews are going to be working overnight to get rid of some of the snow from the latest storm. That means there is a parking ban for the South Central Peninsula tonight. Anyone with a vehicle is reminded to get it off the street before eleven o'clock until seven tomorrow morning. If it is not moved, it will be towed at your expense.


Five lots are available to park your vehicle at the corner of Princess and Charlotte Streets, King Street East, Peters Street, Carmarthen Street and the corner or Mecklenburg and Wentworth streets. To get a look at the parking lots available, go to our web-site at country94.ca and click news.

Storm Roundup

Yesterday's storm which hit the Saint John region turned out to be more intense than predicted with centimeters being reported at the airport but the totals outside the city were higher than that. 23 centimeters was reported at Point Lepreau and 26 in Grand Manan. The treacherous driving conditions played havoc with traffic yesterday afternoon especially during the commute home. City Police tell CHSJ News there were 27 accidents yesterday through last night and early this morning. One of the more serious mishaps occurred late in the afternoon when a car and school bus collided at King Street East and Pitt Street. There were 21 young people on board the schoolbus at the time but none was injured. The airbags deployed in the car and one person was taken to hospital for treatment of a cut.

Revamped NB Power Deal Gets Support

Not everyone outside the confines of the Provincial Government is opposed to selling at least parts of NB Power to Hudro Quebec. An energy consultant, based in Fredericton, likes the revamped deal because it retains ownership. William Marshall of W-M-K Energy Consultants admits he had problems with the original proposal but the revised deal leaves room for regional energy co-operation which has been something he has been calling for. He tells CHSJ News NB Power's debt is really staggering, much more serious than most people in the province realise. Marshall says the revised proposed agreement better increases the province's ability to control rates and set future energy policy.

Gas Prices Are Lower

There's good news this morning for those drivers who have to fill up today. The price of gas is down after the weekly setting by more than 2 cents a litre. The maximum price for self serve regular has been set at 102.1 a litre. It's being sold in the city, however, for 99.4 this morning. The maximum for diesel is 106.5 but is 103.8 a litre at most gas stations around town. If you're in Grand Bay-Westfield the prices are even lower. A caller to our 648-3000 newsline tells us self serve is 98.4 with diesel at 100.2 a litre. Heating oil, meantime, is four cents less expensive this week at 89.9 and propane is listed at 116.7.

Several accidents in the Saint John area

Accidents continue to pile up around the metro area as the drive home is underway. Earlier there was an accident involving a school bus and another vehicle at the intersection of King Street East and Pitt Street. All the children in the bus are fine.

Also, a three vehicle accident has been reported at the corner of Union and Patrick Street involving another school bus. No reports of injuries.

A tractor-trailer is stuck in the on-ramp to the viaduct across from Harbour Station.
Traffic is being re-routed to Market Square.

The roads are very greasy so slow down, give yourself plenty of time to hit the brakes and don't be in a hurry.

The Seadogs gain the top spot in the country

After weeks in the number two position.....the cream has risen to the top. The latest rankings for junior hockey teams across the country has the Saint John Seadogs in the number one spot with a record of 38-7-1-0. President Wayne Long tells CHSJ News, it's a great honor not just for the team but for the city and it's fans as well:

Windsor, which held the number one spot for several weeks has fallen to third with the Barrie Colts now in second place. Victoriaville and Drummondville are the only other Q-League teams to show up in the top ten. This is the first time the Seadogs have been ranked the number one team from coast to coast.

Daytime Robbery at Uptown Restaurant

City Police are looking for two men after an uptown business was robbed during the lunch hour. Sargeant Pat Bonner tells CHSJ News, two men walked into the Ming Market at 78 Prince William Street just after twelve o'clock. One had a weapon and told the clerk to empty the register. She did and both men took off into the snow.

The man holding the weapon was wearing a skeleton mask, is between 20-30 years old and is six feet tall. The second man is very skinny, about six foot four and had a yellow scarf covering his face. No one was hurt.

Driving conditions are slippery on regional highways

(King Street)

(photo by Tamara Steele)

Callers to our 648-3000 newsline letting us know the driving is tricky in parts of the region.
Highway 1 between Hampton and Saint John in both directions is slippery and snowpacked. On Route 102, heavy snow is causing reduced visibility near Brown's Flat and in Grand Bay-Westfield.
Greater Saint John could get up to 15 centimetres of snow before it wraps up overnight.

Future of Canadian Blood Services Still Muddy

(Blood Distribution Center in Saint John)
               (File Photo)

The long awaited meeting between doctors and Canadian Blood Services over the planned closure of the blood lab and production centre in Saint John has taken place but it doesn't appear much, if anything, has changed. That was the impression of Dr. Andrea Garland, President of the Medical Staff Association for the Saint John Region from Sussex all the way to St. Stephen.


Dr. Garland tells CHSJ News the blood centre in Saint John should be enhanced and not closed with the operation being transferred to Dartmouth.

Plenty of Cash for Provincial Schools

There is plenty of cash to go around for schools in the Province with this years capital budget for the Department of Education coming in at $95.7 million. It includes confirmation of a new building to be constructed to replace the aging Kennebecasis Park K-5 School in Rothesay. No word on when construction will get started but officials say it will be finished in time for the start of the school year in 2012.


In District Eight......$1.7 million has been set aside for completion of a multi-year project at Bayside Middle. It's the final phase which includes upgrades to electrical and sprinkler systems and improved drainage ar4ound the building.

Premier Graham Re-Works the Proposal

(Premier Shawn Graham)
      (File Photo)

Details of the new look deal between NB Power and Hydro Quebec has been presented in Fredericton and instead of selling all of NB Power, pieces of the public utility will be sold. Hydro-Quebec will purchase all of the hydro-electric facilities and Point Lepreau for $3.2 billion. The Province retains ownership and control of the utility including transmission and distribution functions. Premier Graham says the Government has listened and acted.


Graham adds the ""do-nothing"" approach by the Conservatives and other political opponents involves far greater risk for everyone in the Province.

Green Party Answers the Challenge

(Green Party Leader Jack McDougall)
           (File Photo)

The Green Party is answering that challenge by Premier Graham releasing it's energy policy. In some of it's six points, the Green Party would provide significant energy supply through a long-term power purchase agreement with Hydro-Quebec. Deliver a provincial energy policy based on maximizing energy efficiency and adoption of renewable sources of energy in all sectors.

They would also re-organize NB Power as a public energy service utility using locally-produced natural gas as a transition fuel, reform the Energy and Utilities Board and targeted industrial subsidies, if justifiable, should be administered through Business New Brunswick on a case-by-case basis.

K-V Fire Department Budget Controversy

Quispamsis is notifying Rothesay an arbitrator is going to be needed to handle the Kennebacasis Fire Department budget issue. Deputy Mayor Emil Olsen tells CHSJ News Quispamsis wants a new firefighter to even out the number of employees at each station. Olsen says the town needs a new fire fighter now and is not willing to wait for K-V Fire Chief Larry Greer to retire before continuing discussions. The debate was sparked after the department needed to cut 100 thousand dollars from it's budget and not hiring a firefighter was one of the cuts.

Put NB People First Hold Town Hall Meeting

   (Panel Members at Last Night's Town Hall Meeting)
                 (Photo by Jim Hennessy)


""The sale of NB Power must be stopped"" That was the sentiment of 120 people who gathered at Kennebecasis Valley High School last night. It was for the first of two Town Hall meetings being hosted by Put NB People First this week. One of the invited guests was President of the Saint John District Labour Council Ron OldField. He tells CHSJ News, even when the Liberals roll out the ""revamped"" proposal this morning, it's a non-starter for his organization.


The over two hour meeting included comments from NDP Leader Roger Dugay, Green Party Boss Jack McDougall, Conservative MLA Jeanott Volpe and Bethany Thorne Dykstra, President of the Put NB People First. The Green Party says it will unveil it's energy strategy later today.

Rothesay Conservative Comes Out to Listen

  (Rothesay Conservative MLA
        Margaret Ann Blaney)

Margaret Ann Blaney, the Conservative MLA for Rothesay was also at the meeting. She tells CHSJ News, she finds it hard to believe that even though they were invited, MLA's Mary Schryer, Jack Keir or Premier Graham were a no show. Blaney adds it's disturbing to her the first Memorandum of Understanding took ten months to put together but the re-vamped proposal apparently only took days.

According to reports, the new MOU shows N-B Power would remain owned by the Province and the power and distribution systems are no longer for sale. The sale price drops from 4.75 to 3.2 billion dollars.

A Saint John Street could be featured on new edition of Monopoly

Vote often for Saint John is the message a local man wants to get out.
One street in our city could be part of the new Canadian edition of the classic boardgame.
Graeme Weir tells CHSJ News that he put together a Facebook group because Saint John is almost dead last in the voting.
To vote..go to http://www.monopolyvote.ca/ and to join Weir's Facebook group go to 
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/group.php?gid=435550230385&ref=mf.

Body found in burned vehicle

RCMP responded to a vehicle fire in Sackville today after a vehicle hit a gas pump at the town's public works building.

A fire broke out and the Sackville Fire Department was able to extinguish the blaze.
A body was discovered in the burned vehicle.
The RCMP’s Forensic Identification Section will assist in identifying the body and an autopsy will be performed to determine the cause of death.

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.