Homeless Youth in Saint John

There could be from 150 to 200 young Saint Johnners without a place to live. That, according to Colin MacDonald of the Resource Centre for Youth. He tells CHSJ News there is an immediate need in the city to help them from a downward spiral.


MacDonald says many times they will be given a place to live by crack dealers who turn them on to the drug trade or use them as prostitutes. According to the report on homelessness, there are 70 emergency shelter beds in Greater Saint John and 934 people used them last year.

Last Of Education Town Hall Meetings Tonight

The last of the District 8 town hall meetings goes tonight with organizers looking for feedback on their schools from parents.
The meetings started back in January in Grand Bay-Westfield and have also been held at Bayside Middle School and at St. Malachy's.
If your child attend's a different school, you can still come to tonight's meeting at Princess Elizabeth School.
Tonight's meeting gets started at 7pm.

No Big Change With Gas Prices

If you're filling up today, there has been very little change in gas prices following the weekly setting. The maximum that can be charged for self serve regular is a bit lower at104.2 a litre and it's being sold around town for 101.9. The maximum for diesel is unchanged at 106.3 and is being sold in the city for 103.7 a litre. Furnace Oil is a bit lower at 90.1 with another decrease in the price of propane which is now listed at 105.2 a litre.

Fire Causes Power Outage

There was a power outage after a transformer caught fire on a utility pole along Pugsley Avenue. Fire crews responded first but had to wait until Saint John Energy arrived. There was alot of sparking from the transformer which caught the attention of nearby residents and caused some concern.

Fallout From Shelving Of NB Power Deal

The President of Saint John Energy found news of the cancelled NB Power/Hydro Quebec deal yesterday a bit surprising.
Eric Marr tells CHSJ News a new provincial energy policy should address the aging infrastructure that all municipal utilities but the main thrust should be protect consumers from rate shock.


The New Brunswick Forest Products Association is appealing to all parties to find an immediate solution to rising power rates. This on the heels of the NB Power Hydro Quebec proposal being squashed. President Mark Aresenault is disappointed with the decision as a major piece of their business plan was the five year rate freeze. Arsenault says now they are faced with rate hikes in electricity rates near or over 20% with the proposal gone.


The death of the energy deal between NB Power and Hydro Quebec is great news for the many provincial groups who spent months fighting against it. Tom Mann of NB Power-Not for Sale! tells CHSJ News they are thrilled it's not happening but, are focused now on what comes next. Mann adds when you tally up the costs associated with negotiating the deal and adverstising it, the cost to provincial taxpayers will be in the millions.

Green Leader Calls Failed Deal An Opportunity

The leader of the provincial Green Party says now is the time to open discussion on the future of renewable energy in our province.
Jack MacDougall says his party's energy platform has been on the table for some time -- and -- he's hoping the others will follow.
Meantime -- MacDougall tells CHSJ News he's not about to count Premier Graham out just yet despite the political damage he's suffered as a result of the failed deal.
But -- MacDougall says support for the Green Party is growing across the province.

Saint John's Newset Car Dealership Is Open

(Open House at New Lexus Dealership)
       (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

Saint John's newest car dealership is officially open for business.

Lexus held an open house tonight to let everyone get a good look at what it has to offer.

General Manager Cathy Coyle tells CHSJ News, this dealership has been ten years in the making with the leg work carried out by Keary Coyle.


Coyle says there has been a lot of traffic since they opened two weeks ago with 15 staff on the payroll.

Political Scientist Says Graham Government Not Out Of Woods

An example of cutting your losses-is how UNB Saint John political scientist describes the Graham government scrapping of their energy deal with Hydro Quebec.

Don Desserud tells CHSJ news the Premier and his government are not out of the woods yet.
Desserud says this will give them a chance to recover but time is not long enough to roll out another policy that would make people forget the failures of the past.
He adds he would not be suprised if the Premier stepped down but he does not think that push will come from his caucus saying the Liberal party will support him.

Missing Moncton Woman Found

A missing Moncton woman has been found alive -- 54-year old Donna O'Rielly was found over the noon hour in Moncton.
She was reported missing February 26th after she failed to arrive home from her job at downtown shopping mall.
Police are piecing together the details surrounding her disappearance and are expected to release more details later this afternoon.

Group Opposed To Energy Deal Pleased It's Not Proceeding

The Coalition to Stop the Sale of NB Power calls today tremendous with news the deal is scrapped but concede their work is not finished.

Greg Cook tells CHSJ News the Graham Government never properly answered the questions the people had on the deal.
Cook adds the answers did not make sense and even the public relations firm the government hired could not spin it.
Cook says he's telling their Facebook group members to keep watch because there are some very unhappy corporate interests and more questions to be answered.

Energy Board Will Hold Public Hearing On Profit And Cost Margins

The provincial Energy and Utilities Board is going to hold a public hearing as part of its review of maximum profit margins - delivery costs - and - full service charges.
The Board says the hearing will be open to both petroleum dealers and members of the general public for comment.
The hearing will be held in the fall -- but -- the Board hasn't given a specific date.

Baby Sling recall

(courtesy of Canadian Press)

The warning issued early this month about baby slings is now upgraded to an outright recall.
More than one-million baby slings made by Infantino are being called back after claims linking them to three infant deaths.
The recall covers 15-thousand Infantino ``SlingRider'' and ``Wendy Bellissimo'' slings sold in Canada.
The U-S Consumer Product Safety Commission is warning that babies can suffocate in the soft fabric slings.
Parents are being told to stop using the slings for babies under four months immediately.

No Apologies From The Graham Government

The Opposition Conservatives have failed in a bid to have the Graham government apologize to New Brunswickers for its handling of the controversial N-B Power sale.
Energy Minister Jack Keir says there won't be any apology for trying to do what was right for New Brunswickers.
Keir says the only plan the Tories have for fixing the utility is to "manage it better" -- something he says they failed to do during their seven years in office.

Conservative Leader responds to news of cancelled power deal

Opposition leader David Alward says the Premier shouldn't expect any brownie points from those who opposed the deal just because it's not going ahead.

Alward says the Premier called it his deal and the people of the province will hold him responsible when this is done

Alward says the Premier fell victim to his own arrogance.

Energy Deal between NB and Quebec cancelled

A political bombshell in the Legislature from Premier Shawn Graham.
The premier says it's with much regret they are no longer proceeding with discussion to finalize the energy agreement with Hydro Quebec.
The Premier still maintains the original deal announced last October and the revised agreement in January were in the best interests of the province.
He says over the past several weeks Hydro Quebec asked for changes that Graham says would take value and added risk to the agreement for New Brunswickers.
Graham does concede he could have done a better job of involving people in the process.

West Side robbery

City Police are investigating an armed robbery early this morning.
Sergeant Pat Bonner tells CHSJ News that police were called to Woodville road on the west side where an 18 year old was robbed with a weapon.
The victim wasn't hurt and the major crime unit is looking for a suspect.

Hydro Quebec Deal Off

Breaking news from the Legislature in Fredericton - Premier Shawn Graham has announced the proposed deal to sell N-B Power to Hydro Quebec is off.
Graham says Hydro Quebec was demanding too much as negotiations continued.
We will have more details and reaction throughout the day.

Provincial Conservatives Pressured On Harbour Bridge Repairs

(Saint John East M-L-A Roly MacIntryre)
                   (File Photo)

A new twist in the ongoing saga of repairs to the Harbour Bridge.
Saint John East MLA Roly MacIntyre and Saint John Lancaster MLA Abel LeBlanc introduced a motion at the legislature for the federal government to allow the harbour bridge authority to borrow the money needed to carry out $35 million in urgent repairs.
The budget for the Bridge Authority must be approved by the federal government, the provincial government and City of Saint John before the Authority can borrow money to undertake the repairs.
While the province and city have given the ok, the federal government has not yet given approval.
LeBlanc is trying to put David Alward and Trevor Holder on the spot by asking them whether they stand with the people of Saint John or with Rodney Weston and the Federal Conservatives.

Anti-Bullying Amendments introduced tomorrow

Conservative leader David Alward will introduce legislation tomorrow to make changes to the Province's anti-bullying policy.
It would make amendments to the New Brunswick Education Act by defining bullying and harrassment and making it mandatory that all school principals be informed of any incidents.

Rob Frennette is a co-founder of BullyingCanada.ca-the first youth-created anti-bullying website in Canada.
He tells CHSJ news he was bullied for over 11 years from Kindergarten up until Graduation.
Members of legislature will debate the proposed legislation on Thursday.

Mayor Court Says Shovels Will Be In The Ground Soon For Peel Plaza

Construction is finally underway on the justice complex at the site of the "Y" on Hazen Avenue. Common Council still hasn't had a final vote yet on the rest of the Peel Street development which includes a new police headquarters and parking garage. Mayor Ivan Court expects a report will be coming to Council in the next couple of weeks.

The Mayor remains confident shovels will be in the ground later this spring.

The Saint John YM-YWCA Still Looking For New Home

The search continues by the YM-YWCA for a new location. The President and C-E-O of the "Y" Pat Davis tells CHSJ News there's no shortage of possibilities in spite of their requirements which include space for a pool, day care centre, gym, wellness centre and on-site parking.

Davis is hoping a site to be finalised in a few months with the new "Y" being up and running by the end of 2012.

Charges Unlikely After Man Was Hit By Car In The KV

(file photo)

Rothesay Regional Police say a 58 year old man suffered a broken leg, fractured neck and cuts and bruises after being hit by vehicle last night in the K.V.
The man was struck after 10 o'clock on the Old Hampton Road while crossing four lanes near the Pettingill Intersection.


Police tell CHSJ News they do not expect charges to be laid against the driver.
The investigation found the pedestrian had been drinking and did not cross the road at a nearby crosswalk.

Premier Says Blood Services Situation "Will Be Fixed"

Artificial Turf For Fields In Millidgeville

(Saint John Portland M-L-A Trevor Holder)
                    (File Photo)

Councilor Gary Sullivan has the full support of the MLA for Saint John Portland in his bid to bring artificial turf to the Millidgeville fields. Holder tells CHSJ News, all three levels of government need to get on board with this plan.
Holder adds all options including corporate funding are on the table as preliminary discussions are underway for the close to $1.5 million dollar project. The fields were constructed back in 2006 to serve the three Saint John High, Saint Malachy's and Harbourview high schools.

Pedestrian Struck In K-V

There's no word on any charges after a man was struck by a vehicle last night in the Valley. It happened around 10:00 as he was trying to cross Hampton Road by Pettingill. The extent of the man's injuries isn't known at this point.

School District 6 Career Fair

What do you want to do when you finish high school? A question on the mind of many students in District Six with the school year winding down. To help make the transition, District Six is hosting a Career Fair today with between 30-40 exhibitors set-up to answer your questions. Natalie Thompson, co-ordinator of the Work-room Resource Center tells CHSJ News, university and college isn't for everyone. Thompson adds the fair is classified as non-traditional which means the goal is to provide information on five of the six post-secondary destinations.

Future Of Notorious Kingsclear Youth Training Centre

(Provincial Supply and Services Minister Ed Doherty)

                           (File Photo)

With two fires in less than five months, many are asking why isn't something being done with the former Kingsclear Reformatory? It is owned by the Province and Supply and Services Minister Ed Doherty tells CHSJ News, the fire over the weekend happened in a building set to be demolished in the next week or two. Doherty admits the building sits on a valuable piece of real estate and believes there is someone interested in it. RCMP investigators confirm the fire over the weekend was deliberately set.

Women And Technology

Have you ever wished you could get a little more from your blackberry?
An event in Saint John this week hosted by Canadian Women in Communications aims to solve some of the mysteries of technology.
One of the organizers Alyson Townsend tells CHSJ News that it works like speed dating with participants spending 10 minutes with each expert. The event also features experts on digital cameras and an E-reader,
To register, go to CWC.ca and click New Brunswick or you can buy a ticket at the door.
It's $25 for members or $35 dollars for non-members and it's coming up on Thursday at Noon at the Hilton.

New Look for Rainbow Park

(Artists Look of New Rainbow Park)
     (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

Expect to see some improvement work going on at Rainbow Park in the near future.


With the Province cutting a cheque for $300,000 dollars, that puts renovation funding at over one million dollars.


Councilor Donnie Snook tells CHSJ News, the swings and sand box are going to get some tlc with construction of a splash pad and outdoor rink to get started in May.


The new look Rainbow Park will also become a stop along Harbour Passage with a new portion of the cranberry trail to go right through the park.

Graham Accuses Feds Of Shirking Responsibility For Harbour Bridge

Update on KIngsclear Fire

It was set on purpose. That is the conclusion of RCMP on the cause of a fire over the weekend at the former Kingsclear facility.

Fire crews were called to what used to be the Adult Reformatory yesterday afternoon close to four to find flames and smoke coming from the building.


In early November, a fire destroyed a wing of an old dormitory building at the reformatory.

The reformatory gained national attention several years ago after a history of child sexual abuse unfolded.

The building is owned by the Province and has been vacant for close to twenty years.

Power Outage For the Birds

If your looking to blame someone for this morning's power outage, look no further than Heckyl and Jeckyl.


A pair of crows got into a transmission line that serves Saint John Energy's Somerset Street sub-station and took 4600 customers off the grid. President Eric Marr tells CHSJ News, the power out for under an hour:




Marr adds it does happen occassionaly that animals find their way into places they shouldn't be but the protection system in place tries to limit how much damage can be caused.

Keir On Future Of The Energy Hub

(Provincial Energy Minister Jack Keir)

(File Photo)

The impact of the NB Power agreement with Hydro Quebec on future growth of the energy hub in Saint John has been a constant concern with both the Board of Trade and Atlantica Centre of Energy. Provincial Energy Minister Jack Keir doesn't believe the final agreement needs to have contract language committing Hydro Quebec to growing the energy hub. He tells CHSJ News it just makes good business sense and the C-E-O of Hydro Quebec, Thierry Vandel gets it. Keir goes on to say he has just returned from courting companies in the southwestern U.S. to invest in the energy hub so Hydro Quebec isn't the only game in town.
Keir expects the agreement to sell many of NB Power's assets to Hydro Quebec to be finalised by the end of the month.

Zed Speaks Out On Verbal Sniping

(Former Saint John M-P Paul Zed and Director of Romero House Carolyn McNulty)

(File Photo)

A former Liberal MP is concerned about all the bickering between City Hall, Fredericton and Ottawa when it comes to issues concerning Greater Saint John. Paul Zed tells CHSJ News, bringing back more of the ""Team Saint John"" spirit is a good place to start.
Zed says there is a role for all three levels of government to play but the leadership has to come from Ottawa and it's M-P for Saint John. He's worried by the fighting over issues like repairs for the Harbour Bridge, unemployment and the lack of initiatives for several projects around the Saint John area. As for the possibility of him running again, Zed says it's still too early to say. He's having alot of fun right now practicing law again, spending time with his children and local fundraising.

Doherty Uses Nomination Meeting To Announce Rainbow Park Funding

The provincial government is giving 300-thousand dollars to the Rainbow Park project in the South End -- the official announcement is scheduled for tomorrow afternoon.
But -- Supply and Services Minister Ed Doherty used his Saint John Harbour nomination meeting tonight to reveal the funding -- and -- he didn't stop there.
He also says the provincial government will also contribute 200-thousand dollars to a Rockwood Park endowment fund -- and -- will fund a population growth strategy by the Saint John Multicultural Center.
And Doherty says the official sod turning for the new provincial Justice Complex at Peel Plaza will be held within ten days.
Doherty will defend his seat in the September 27th election -- he was first elected in a by-election in November of 2005.

Graham Admits Better Communications Job Needed For Power Deal

(Premier Graham speaking to Saint John Harbour nomination meeting)

Premier Graham says his government has to do a better job of answering questions about the controversial proposed sale of N-B Power to Hydro Quebec.
But -- Graham says the opposition Conservatives are dodging their responsibilities by refusing to unveil their plan for the provincial utility - and - that makes the debate one sided.
Over a thousand people turned out to oppose the sale during a rally at the Legislature in Fredericton on Saturday -- while Graham was greeted by four protesters as he arrived at the Saint John Harbour nomination meeting tonight.

Citys Real Estate Market Looking Good

The new president of the Saint John Real Estate Board says the market is looking good as we head into the spring and summer months.

Jason Stephen tells CHSJ News the local market held its own through last year's economic slump:
Stephen says the number of listings is up this year offering prospective buyers more choice -- and -- he says the number of sales is also up so far this year compared to the same period last year.

Ed Doherty Re-Offering for Saint John Harbour In Provincial Election

The Liberal riding association for Saint John Harbour will usher in incumbent Ed Doherty as it's candidate for the fall provincial election this afternoon. The MLA and Minister of Supply and Services is un-opposed in the riding and has held the seat since winning a by-election back in 2005.

Things get started at five o'clock at Saint John the Baptist Church and Premier Grahamwill be on hand for the event.

Golfers Preparing For A New Season

The early thaw has caught the attention of golfers around the Province hoping they might get back on the course early this year. The President of Total Golf Management at Rockwood Park Gerry Connolly tells CHSJ News, the tarps were removed from the greens earlier this week and things look good:

Connolly adds if the weather forecast holds as predicted, he is optimistic the golf course might be able to open shortly after the Easter Weekend.

Road Work In Quispamsis

Now that the roads In Greater Saint John have been bare for several weeks now, town staff in Quispamsis have been making the rounds planning for any repair work. Director of Engineering Gary Losier tells CHSJ News, they are trying to stay ahead of the pot-hole problems:

Losier adds the roads are in pretty good shape but the springs have popped up in some area's with a permanent fix to come this summer.

Rothesay Clean Up Week

You know all that junk that is piling up in your basement, shed or garage. The time is drawing near when you can put it curbside and have someone haul it away. Clean-up Week this year in Rothesay is scheduled for May.17th and regardless of your regular garbage pick-up day, all items should be curbside by that Monday at seven in the morning.
Organic pick-up week is the following Monday with all yard waste for composting to be picked up.


Here is the complete list of what can be put out.

CLEAN-UP WEEK







ONCE ONLY PICK-UP






ALL ITEMS MUST BE AT THE CURBSIDE






May 17th BY 7:00 a.m. Regardless of your schedule pick up day






Items must be tied in manageable bundles, weighing no more than 50 lbs. Junked car parts and batteries, white goods (appliances), paints/solvents and similar items will NOT be picked up. Tires can be dropped off at any retail outlet. For further information on the disposal of non-conforming items, please call the Fundy Regional Solid Waste Hotline at 738-1212.














ORGANIC PICK-UP






ALL ITEMS MUST BE AT THE CURBSIDE






May 24th BY 7:00 a.m.






This clean-up will be for the collection of leaves, and yard waste for composting. Leaves, grass clipping, and bundled twigs that are no longer than 4 ft in length and less than 50 lbs. should be placed curbside. Residents are encouraged to use decomposable bags, non-waxed cardboard cartons or garbage cans that can be emptied into the trucks.

Dogs Take Game One

West Side fire under investigation

City fire crews responding to a house fire this morning on the west side.

The call came in just before 2am at a single family home on By-road 5 where firefighters found the deck and roof on fire and then the roof collapsed.

Everyone in the home got out safely, no one was injured.

Fire officials tell CHSJ news the cause of the blaze is unknown and under investigation.

Warm temperatures continue for the first day of Spring

You certainly don't need a calendar to tell you today is the first official day of spring. An early thaw and the time change last weekend has given Greater Saint John plenty to smile about through the winter months. Meteorologist Claude Cote with Environment Canada tells CHSJ News, temperatures so far this month have been four degree's higher than normal:

Cote adds this is the 18th warmest winter since Enviroment Canada began keeping records 139 years ago.

Local MADD president says random breathalyzer tests work

The federal government has suggested the idea of introducing random breathalyser checks in this country.
President of the Saint John chapter of MADD Canada, Rick McNulty tells CHSJ News this is common practice in other parts of the world.

He says Australia has had a 35 per cent decrease in alcohol-related crash deaths where it's been the norm for over 30 years.

McNulty says its an excellent idea and is a proven deterrent in the countries that have tried it, lowering the number of alcohol-related deaths and crashes.

Talks continue on restoring Long Wharf site

Meetings continue between the Port Authority and Irving Oil to discuss the restoration of Long Wharf. After months of pre-construction work and then cancelling plans to build it's headquarters on the site, Irving Oil promised the site would be returned to it's original state. Captain Al Soppitt tells CHSJ News, they are trying to come to terms on what is the best way to restore it:
Soppitt points out Long Wharf will continue to serve as the number two cruise dock but no time-table has been laid out to have the restoration work finished.

Rally at the Legislature today

With no deal signed between NB Power and Hydro Quebec, Put NB People First will continue it's push to have the proposal squashed. A rally, inviting people from all around the Province, is being held on the front lawn of the Legislature today eleven and one this afternoon. Spokes-person Bethany Thorne Dykstra tells CHSJ News, she is going to stay with the fight til the bitter end:

Thorne Dykstra adds with the end of the month date now out the window to have this deal signed, she is confident there is time for a referendum.

Seadogs Take First in Their Best of Seven

(Center Ice at Harbour Station)
   (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

Over 4200 fans left Harbour Station with a smile last night as the Seadogs opened their Q-League play-offs with an 8-3 beating of the Rocket.

The Dogs scored four in the first and never looked back with two more in the second and icing it with a pair in the third. Defenceman Yann Suave says it was important to notch the first goal to set the tone and pace.


Game two goes tonight and is a seven o'clock start.

Seadogs Bring Home Some Hardware

                                                (Trophy Presentations at Center Ice)

                                            (Photo's by Jim Hennessy)



A short ceremony was held before the start of last night's game to honor the Seadogs for a pair of their regular season accomplishments.
Q-League President Gilles Courteau awarded the team with the Luc Robitaille for scoring the most goals during the regular season 309.

Also for finishing first over-all, the Seadogs captured the Jean Rougeau trophy at center ice.

Sentencing Adjourned For Hampton Girl On Murder Conviction

Sentencing for a 16 year old Hampton area girl, who can't be identified, on a charge of second degree murder has been adjourned to April 16th. She was convicted in the stabbing death last June of 78 year old Frank Tonge in his Damascus home. The Prosecution is calling for four years in custody during which she would undergo an intensive intervention programme. Defense lawyer Dave Lutz says no one wants to see someone so young just rot in jail without rehabilitation but the court wants to make sure she will buy into the programme and willingly co-operate.
The girl, who can't be identified, was described as being very honest but extremely immature for 16 years of age. The court heard she began using drugs when she was only 9. Lutz also told the court she may very well have been dead by now had she not been arrested for Tonge's murder.

Cancer Society wants a new law on Tanning bed use for those under 18

The local branch of the Canadian Cancer Society wants to see the province bring in new legislation to keep those under 18 from using tanning beds.
The Graham Liberals quietly repealed a law in this province last year, the only one in the country.
Ellen Snider of the Saint John chapter tell CHSJ News she gets lots of calls on this subject.
Snider adds they will continue to apply pressure to the Premier and his government on this issue.

Immigration Numbers in Saint John

Saint John is doing better at attracting and retaining immigrants to the city but more has to be done.


That word delivered at the launch of an effort to bring newcomers and employers together and make workplaces in the city more diverse.
Luisa Montoya, project co-ordinator at the multi-cultural resource centre in the City Market, tells CHSJ News the biggest obstacle to immigrants not staying in the city is not being able to land a job.


Montoya also tells us Saint John welcomed more than 2 thousand immigrant families last year which is a big improvement over just three years earlier.

Hampton Kings MLA Talks Money

(Hampton Kings MLA Bev Harrison)
          (File Photo)

The increase in pensions to be received by M-L-A's, which has caused so much controversy of late, is not all that great.


So claims Hampton-Kings M-L-A Bev Harrison who would be eligible for a 70 thousand dollar a year pension if he retires this year.


Harrison tells CHSJ News the increase in benefits isn't as high as the 85 per cent previously reported.


Harrison says the tax free allowance was done away with, based on the recommendation of a judge, and those dollars were added to the salaries of M-L-A's which also affect the pensions they would receive.

Flyer From Liberal Party Shows Up in the Mail

(Former MP Paul Zed(right) at a Recent Charity Function)
                      (File Photo)

""Who do you trust more to help Canada rise to the challenges of 2017 and beyond?""

That is the question being asked to voters by the Federal Liberal party through the mail with two answers of course, the Liberals or Governing Conservatives.

The flyer has been shopping up in mailboxes around the metro area all week.

Former MP Paul Zed tells CHSJ News, similar set-ups that have been rolled out by the Conservative Party have been quite offensive.


Zed adds the results of the mail in question will be discussed when the Liberal Party gathers in Montreal next week.

Pension Increases For M-L-A's Cause Public Outrage

(Saint John Fundy M-L-A Stuart Jamieson)

(File Photo)

The M-L-A's who voted themselves an 85 per cent increase in their pension benefits are now talking about an independent review in light of public outrage. Kevin Gaudet of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation tells CHSJ News the outrage is justified, saying it's sad but not surprising to see politicians belly up to the trough but he warns getting them off, in his words, requires more than a crowbar.
If Hampton-Kings M-L-A Bev Harrison retired this year, he would be eligible for a 70 thousand dollar a year pension. Saint John Fundy M-L-A Stuart Jamieson would receive a pension of 67 thousand dollars when he retires this year.

Another Temperature Record In The Making

It's looks like another day of warm temperatures going down in the record books -- the record high for this date in the city is 8.9-degrees set back in 1972 -- but -- this afternoon's temperature has been hovering in the 10-degree range.
We also broke a record temperature yesterday coming in at 12-degrees topping the previous record of 9.5-degrees set on St Patrick's day in 2007.

The Province applies some pressure on Ottawa over the Harbour Brige

(Energy Minister Jack Keir)

(file photo)

The Graham Government is continuing to apply pressure on Ottawa when it comes to repairs for the Harbour Bridge. Transportation Minister Denis Landry has sent a letter to his counterpart in Ottawa pointing out the Province and and City Hall have approved the Bridge Authority's five year budget. He asks John Baird to approve the budget so necessary repairs can get started.


Energy Minister Jack Keir tells CHSJ News they want to see something done about the repairs.

Keir says after being manager of the Harbour Bridge Authority, he understands the importance of the vital link to this area and all of Atlantic Canada.
He says it's imperative that the Bridge Authority can move forward and make the neeeded refurbishments.

MP Rodney Weston said last week Transport Canada wants more information on who the lender is before they decide on approval.

Two Provincial Men to Be Awarded with Medal of Bravery

Longs Creek has a hero and his name is Robert Dorie.

He will be honored with the Medal of Bravery after capturing an armed robber almost four years ago in Sussex.

It was July.23rd when he was outside Marks Work Warehouse and saw several people running from a tavern, including one with a shotgun.

He tried to get away on a bicycle when Dorie sideswiped him with his vehicle and held him until RCMP arrived. Dorie tells CHSJ News, he never once stopped to think about his safety.


Dorie says his family is very proud of him but no word on when the medal ceremony will be.
 
Mike Toupin from the Miramichi will also receive the medal after stopping a run-away transport truck.

Moncton Man Charged

A 63-year old man who used to live in Moncton has been charged by RCMP in connection with allegations of sexual assault that date back more than 40 years.

Thomas Peter Daigle appeared in court today and plead guilty to five counts of indecent assault on a man stemming from sexual assault allegations.
The RCMP investigation began in January of last year.

The investigation focused on allegations of sexual assault on teenage boys in the Greater Moncton area between 1966 and 1974 while Daigle was a local hockey coach. He will be back in court on May 17 for sentencing.

Facebook scam involving passwords

(courtesy of Canadian Press)


Another email scam is circulating online trying to ensnare unsuspecting Facebook users into divulging all their passwords.

Security software maker McAfee sent out a consumer warning Wednesday night after noticing that the email scam had become one of the most active currently online.


The emails suggest the user's Facebook password has been reset and includes a link to change it.

But clicking on that link downloads a program that allows hackers to learn your Facebook password and any other passwords you use online.


McAfee says it's the sixth most-prevalent scam that's circulated in the last day or so.
The emails are typically written with poor grammar and awkward phrasing, such as ``Dear user of facebook.''

High Chair Recall

(courtesy of Canadian Press)

Thirty-five-thousand high chairs sold in Canada are part of a massive recall.
The U-S Consumer Product Safety Commission has announced the voluntary recall by Georgia-based Graco Children's Products.
It involves more than 1.2-million high chairs.

The company says problems with screws and plastic brackets can cause the high chairs to tip over unexpectedly.
Twenty-four injuries have been reported -- mainly bumps and bruises.

Q-League Attendance Numbers Are In

With the Seadogs set to start their play-off run tomorrow night against the Rocket, attendance numbers for the regular season are in. Just over 214,000 fans graced Harbour Station which works out to an average of 4141 per game. Moncton finishes up with an average fan base of just over 4600 per game which works out to 219,300 people at the Coliseum for the regular season. Cape Breton finishes up with over 3300 per game and just over 158,000 for the season.


Bathurst averaged just under 1400 per game which works out to over 107,000 for the season. Quebec leads the way with just over 12,000 fans per game which works out to over 515,000 for the regular season.

Another Record High Temperature In Saint John

It was the warmest St. Patrick's Day ever in Saint John, according to Environment Canada with another record high being reported. The temperature rose to 12 degrees celsius early yesterday afternoon which shattered the previous record high of 9.5 degrees in 2007. The mild weather is expected to remain with us for a few days yet but Environment Canada is warning next week will turn colder with more seasonable temperatures.

Musquash Firefighters Stop Blaze From Spreading

A fire late yesterday afternoon prompted quick action by firefighters in Musquash to prevent something much worse from developing. The blaze began in a 4 by 4 shed but began spreading to nearby woods. The shed on Route 790 in Musquash was blazing away when firefighters got there. They quickly doused the fire out but had to stick around for another hour in case any hot spots flared up. A nearby house did sustain some heat damage to its siding. It's been determined the cause of the fire was accidental and there were no injuries.

A Slight Decline In Gas Prices

The price of gas in Saint John is slightly lower this morning following the weekly setting. The maximum that can be charged for self serve regular is down by just over a cent at $104.6. It's being sold in the city for $101.9 a litre. The max for diesel also decreased to $106.3 and it's selling for $103.7 at pumps around town. Self serve regular in diesel is lower still at $100.9 a litre and diesel is at $102.7. Furnace oil is at 90.3 cents a litre and the price of propane continues its downward slide at $107.4.

NB Power Warns Of A Scam

Someone is trying another scam over the phone and this time using NB Power's name.



Several calls to the public utility say they have been contacted by someone offering a device for sale that can save them up to 40 per cent on their electricity bills.


It is believed the caller claims that he/she is calling on behalf of NB Power, or that he/she is calling on behalf of "your electricity provider" or " your hydro provider."

NB Power says it is not selling any devices and if you do get this type of call to get in touch with police right away.

Future of Campobello Island Goes to a Vote

A huge decision has been put before the residents of Campobelo Island.


Residents will vote through a plebiscite on May.10th if they want to become a rural community or remain a local service district.


Last year, 50 residents petitioned Fredericton to conduct a study on the feasibility of establishing a rural community.


The study shows of the 330 residents who are qualified to vote, 90 per cent were in favour of both establishing a rural community and holding a pledbiscite."


Unlike a local service district, a rural community includes a mayor and four councilors that has decision-making authority over certain areas.

Two Premiers Team Up to Help Haiti

(Former Premier Frank McKenna Speaking to Reporters)
               (Photo by Stephanie Davey)

$60,000 dollars raised at the Saint John for Haiti fundraiser today at the Delta.


Former Premier Frank McKenna was the key note speaker for the sold out luncheon.


McKenna says he understands why some are skeptical about giving money to Haiti but he says this time it's different.


McKenna says the country should include women more in the rebuilding of Haiti and begin teaching english or spanish in the school system.

Premier Not Offering Any Apologies

He's not sounding very apologetic -- Premier Graham isn't backing down from his comments about municipalities taking a tax grab this year at the expense of New Brunswickers.
Graham says the increased assessments this year would produce extra revenue for municipalities -- and -- his government felt the municipalities had a responsibility to give up some of that revenue to give tax relief to home owners -- but -- they chose not to.
The Premier says he had a good meeting with municipal reps yesterday to discuss how to produce the rate relief New Brunswickers are looking for -- his government has already indicated some changes are coming.
Quispamsis council isn't happy with the Premier's comments throwing the responsibility for high property tax bills back to the council level and is seeking an apology.

Gas Leak Forces Evacuation Of Imperial Theater

(District Fire Chief Lew MacDonald)

Enbridge Gas crews are repairing a leak which caused some anxious moments in the uptown early this afternoon.
District Fire Chief Lew MacDonald says passerbys noticed a strong odour of gas in the area of the Imperial Theater.
MacDonald says fire crews took readings in both the Imperial and the nearby Admiral Beatty Seniors Complex -- and -- didn't find any gas in the buildings.
The leak is outside the Imperial -- that building was evacuated but MacDonald says there was no need to evacuate the Beatty complex.

ACAP Future Undecided

The Atlantic Coastal Action Program is growing concerned about it's future.

It is waiting for word from Environment Canada as to whether or not current yearly funding which totals over $82,000 dollars will be renewed.

The deadline is the end of the month and Executive Director Tim Vickers tells CHSJ News, he is trying to remain optimistic.


Vickers adds the federal cash is project specific money and not core funding and points out with great community partners, ACAP is more fortunate than other organizations that with-out funding, will close.

Fraud Exhibit on Display

(Exhibitors on Display at Brunswick Square)
           (Photo by Jim Hennessy)

In this day of scams and someone always trying to make an easy buck, the New Brunswick Securities Commission is trying to help you hang on to your cash.

It is hosting a fraud prevention exhibit at Brunswick Square with several firms taking part.

One is the Bank of Canada and spokes-person Allan Paquet tells CHSJ News, they are always trying to stay one step ahead of thieves.


Paquet points out a quick way to examine your cash is by holding any bills you might think are phoney up to the light.

If you see a face in the middle of the note, it is real. The exhibit is being hosted by the New Brunswick Securities Commission.

Saying Goodbye to Winter in Quispamsis

As the winter season winds down, not many battle scars showing in the Town of Quispamsis. With storms few and far between, Director of Engineering Gary Losier tells CHSJ News, they have come to the conclusion that an extra route for plowing has to be added bringing the total to 12:


Losier adds the lack of big storms gave crews the opportunity to get in between and clean up properly with their supply of salt not taking a huge hit like last year.