The number of deer harvested has gone up by over 6,000 animals, or 26%
Part of the reason for the big numbers is the 550 additional antlerless deer permits were given out this year. The final harvest numbers will be available in early 2013.
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Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Huge Deer Harvest This Year
The number of deer harvested has gone up by over 6,000 animals, or 26%
Part of the reason for the big numbers is the 550 additional antlerless deer permits were given out this year. The final harvest numbers will be available in early 2013.
Homelessness Hurts The Port City
Local teens are learning about the importance of affordable housing at a youth conference hosted by the Human Development Council and Safe Harbour.
Colin McDonald of the HDC tells CHSJ News there are a lot of run-down buildings in this market, which aren't safe or healthy places to live.
He says home should be a place where you can can recharge and when you're denied that right your overall well-being suffers.
The high school students sat in on sessions on housing for homeless youth and mentally ill individuals and created works of art on the topic.
You Might Be Shocked To Hear How Your Water Is Treated
"Currently we take the sticks and debris out of our water and we put in some chlorine that disinfects [it]. Once we add the chlorine there are other disinfection by-products that form as a result. That happens because of the nature of our water, the leaves, the vegetation, the animal remains that are in the surface water, the length of our pipes, we get by-products as a result of the chemicals that we put in. They are a recognized Canadian health hazard. We need to improve the treatment of our water such that the water delivered in your tap doesn't have any of those harmful, or potentially harmful, by-products."
Child Poverty Rate In Province Is Lower
In actual numbers, more than 22 thousand children in the province lived in poverty in 2010 according to the annual Child and Poverty Report Card.
Using the Low Income Measure, the rate of child poverty was 16.1% in 2010 which is down from 24.6% in 2006.
Watch Out For Virus Email From Fake Canada Post
A fake Canada Post e-mail is circulating around the country that's asking you to open a document or to click a link to get tracking information on a package. Canada Post has issued a warning on their website to delete the viral e-mail and that it's no way related to the company.
They stress if you do need to track your package, to go to their website and enter the tracking number.
Straight Talk From Mayor Mel Norton At State Of The City Address
The Mayor gave a bird's eye view of the hurdles the Port City is encountering, as well as the victories we have already achieved, before a crowd of about 150 at his first State of the City address.
Norton freely admits growing the economy and facing our fiscal woes won't be easy. He cites the pension deficit and our current economic rut as the biggest obstacles to our future success as a municipality.
Norton offered some folksy wisdom as a challenge to his constituents. He'd like the people of Saint John to take an opportunity each day to talk about the ways we're succeeding as a city. It is only, the Mayor says, by changing the coffee shop conversation that we are going to see real progress.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
2 Men Charged With Drug Trafficking
46 year old Hung Tan Nguyen of Fredericton will serve 8 years in prison on eight counts of trafficking marijuana.
50 year old Kevin Karl Chase of Bull Creek, near Woodstock, was sentenced to 8 months in jail on one count of trafficking marijuana.
Both men are prohibited from owning a firearm, weapon, or ammunition for a period of 10 years.
The two were among 7 people arrested in August last year as part of a two-year drug investigation in the Fredericton area.
Energy Drinks Could Be Deadly, Says Health Critic
Energy drinks are a common pick me up these days, especially among teenagers and shift-workers but the Opposition Health Critic wants to see the Alward government review how the caffeine loaded beverages are marketed to people under 19.
Liberal M-L-A Donald Arsenault tells CHSJ News it's a safety issue.
He says if you believe in reducing future health care costs and in the safety and protection of young people then this is an issue that should be important.
Arsenault points to the number of deaths that have been linked to energy drinks as a reason to review the legislation.
Councillor Suggesting 3 Areas To Kick Start Plan SJ
The Ward 3 Councillor tells CHSJ news he'd like to see restoration of old buildings, roads fixed, increased public safety, a new waste management program and work be done with community groups to improve the area.
Snook believes for Plan SJ to get started, we need to point out what specific areas need the most work.
Mayor To Give State Of The City Address Tonight
It's a presentation on where we are currently as a municipality, and where we're heading in 2013. It will hosted by the Board of Trade and the cost is $35 for non-members, $25 for members.
The State of the City Address kicks off at 5pm.
Police Arrest Man In Fredericton Relating To NS Confinement Case
The Nova Scotia man was arrested Monday evening in Fredericton. The accused was without handcuffs when he was taken into the justice centre in Bridgewater through a public entrance.
John MacKean of Lower Sackville is facing a charge of sexual assault and a prostitution-related charge and is due back in court on Thursday.
47 year old David James Leblanc has already been charged with seven offenses in the case, including sexual assault and forcible confinement.
Police launched an investigation in September after a woman in Upper Chelsea reported that a barefoot teen who was chained at the wrists and ankles, showed up at her doorstep seeking help.
Building Being Demolished On Union Street
You may have noticed the demolition work going on near the corner of Union and Charlotte Streets.
An old building is being taken down carefully as it sits between two structures.
CHSJ News has learned the property owners were issued a demolition permit.
The City is telling us the work is not in a heritage area and not a City project.
Missing Artwork Found Undamaged On Church Steps
Around 9 this morning RCMP received a call from volunteers at St. John the Baptist Anglican chapel in Chamcook, just outside of St. Andrews. The volunteers found 11 pieces of the stolen art, including the portrait "Angel" by Herzl Kashetsky, on the steps leading to one of the entrances to the chapel.
None of the artwork was damaged.
Mayor Stressing Co-Operation When It Comes To More Regionalisation
One such meeting being held today at City Hall to talk about a draft budget for the commission covering the Saint John region.
Norton tells CHSJ News he doesn't see any problem with all the communities in the Saint John area working together to make the region stronger because the other Mayors realize the city has to be doing well for the region, as a whole, to do well.
The Mayor acknowledges Saint John will have a lot of influence on what's decided because of its population which will affect the outcome of votes.
Conflict At Council Over Filling 5 City Positions
The positions vacant are in human resources, communications, Commissioner of Water and Commissioner of Growth and Development.
Deputy Mayor Shelley Rinehart believes if we're going to grow our community we'll need the manpower. Common Councillor Donnie Snook strongly disagrees, saying we shouldn't add to staff unless it's for front line services.
Councillor John Mackenzie doesn't believe 5 positions is too much and says the jobs need to be filled. West Side Councillor Bill Farren disagrees, saying that every year before budget he's receives a list of positions that have to be filled and is fed up with it. He says if they're asking for Saint Johnners to do more with less, so should city staff.
Mayor Mel Norton supports the hirings and says it's filling positions that are already in place, not adding new ones.
Saint John Firefighter Remembered
The 39 year old Saint John firefighter passed away in Ottawa last week after an early morning incident at a construction site. The Mayor offered words of sympathy before Common Council for a man described as dedicated and passionate about his work.
Clinton joined the Saint John Fire Department in 1999. His brother, Chris, is also a firefighter.
Tap Water Leaves A Bad Taste In Taxpayers Mouths In More Ways Than One
And now, Common Council is hearing the time has likely come to increase water rates for taxpayers in order to pay for the upgrades we need.
The Commissioner of Environmental Services Bill Edwards is recommending Common Council raise the water rates by 7.4% to cover the cost of updating the infrastructure.
Councillor at Large Shirley McAlary and others agree, saying it makes sense to increase the rates gradually rather than giving rate payers a big price shock all at once down the line.
The proposed rate increase works out to about $74 per year, per household, and it could go up as soon as 2013.
Council is also looking at using more meters which would let you pay only for what you use.
Monday, November 19, 2012
Quinn Calls 4 Plex Idea "Exciting"
The Port's C-E-O wants to sit down with the City to get more information on what it might want to see in a multi-ice surface 4 plex at Long Wharf.
Jim Quinn tells CHSJ News whatever they do over there the Port Authority wants to maintain its marine focus through the cruise ship industry.
He says it could be an exciting proposition to help really spur some economic activity and draw people into the city core as well as acting as an enhancement for the great job the tour operators already do.
Quinn adds there is enough land to accomodate the cruise business and a new multi ice surface 4-plex on Long Wharf.
Let NB Tourism Know What You 'Like'
Tourism Minister Trevor Holder says since there are too many pictures to pick, they're putting the decision in your hands.
On their Facebook page is a selection of iconic photos from across the province, and the one that gets the most 'Likes" becomes the cover photo.
Albums will be posted today and results will be tallied at noon next Monday. To give your vote, click here. If you don't have Facebook, you can call Tourism New Brunswick at 1-800-561-0123.
Weekend Theft In St. Andrews
About 7:30 on Saturday night, the RCMP got a report about a breakin at a home on Parr Street.
A work of art by Herzl Kashetsky entitled "Angel" was taken along with pottery and blown glass.
It's believed the items were pilfered sometime between Friday night and early Saturday morning.
If you know anything, you can contact police at 506-755-1130 or Crime Stoppers at www.crimenb.ca or 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)
Former NHLer Critical Of League Commissioner
Former NHL'er Marty McSorley came to Saint John last week to play in an oldtimers game and raise money for minor hockey. He's not shy about speaking out saying the players have drawn a line in the sand.
McSorley tells CHSJ News hockey fans in the U.S. view the lockout differently because they have become accustomed to work stoppages in the NFL, NBA and Major League Baseball over the years.
McSorley adds if there was a true Commissioner in the league, we wouldn't be dealing with this because the NHL is much more than just Gary Bettman and the owners.
He maintains the players lost alot in the last collective agreement that was largely written by the owners.
The Red Kettle Drive Is On
The Salvation Army's Red Kettle campaign is on again in Greater Saint John.
Captain Darren Wiseman tells CHSJ News the kettles can be seen in 16 locations between the City and Rothesay.
He tells us they need volunteers and if you would like to help out, call the Salvation Army at 634-1633.
As you shop in the region, you will see the Red Kettles right up until Christmas Eve.
You can also text HOPE6019 to 45678 to make a $5 donation.
Longshoremen Oppose A 4-Plex At Long Wharf
The business agent for local 273 of the International Longshoremen's Association, Pat Riley tells CHSJ News they would have reservations because, in his view, the port has no surplus land to spare.
He argues Chinese customers, in particular, were looking at the port. Riley believes that kind of demand for port property will increase when the global economy picks up and Long Wharf is the best built pier at the port.
Longshoremen launched a vigorous campaign in opposition to Irving Oil building its headquarters at Long Wharf a few years ago.
One Person Injured After Crash On Route 820
Air bags were deployed with firefighters and paramedics removing one person from the vehicle who was taken to hospital.
The highway was closed for a short time while the vehicle was removed from the scene.
A Hospital Bomb Scare
Police say a patient was holding what appeared to be an explosive device which prompted the hospital's lobby and cafeteria to be evacuated and crisis negotiators called in.
The man was arrested without incident about 3 hours later.
Fredericton Police have not said what was in the suspicious package but it was not an explosive.
Charges Possible After Serious Crash In The K-V
That section of roadway was closed for an hour and a half.
One of the drivers was taken to hospital.
Convict Who Was On The Lam Arrested
42 year old William Wayne Cummer was nabbed at a rooming house on Peter Street and will be appearing in court today for being unlawfully at large after being last seen on November 13th.
Cummer has an extensive criminal background that involves numerous violent offenses and people were warned not to approach him.
Police say he was taken into custory without incident.
Common Councillor Calls For Revitalisation Plan
Donnie Snook, who represents Ward 3, believes there should be incentives on the table for new development and to restore buildings that are falling down.
He would like to see a curbside recycling pilot program be given another look as well as a stoop and scoop program.
Snook is also calling for more trees and flowers be planted, yearly neighborhood cleanups and an Adopt a Block program.
Questions Raised After Inmate Walks Early
The inmate was released early by mistake on October 15 and then was picked up for a violent crime on November 4th.
Charlotte-the-Isles MLA Rick Doucette tells CHSJ News it concerns him that Public Safety Minister Robert Trevors waited weeks before releasing information on the oversight.
Doucette says it's obvious the early release of a violent offender is a major error which can't be ignored.
New Immigrants Are Looking At Saint John
Realtor Hodges Hamm tells CHSJ News there's a large number of people who are moving out of Saint John for the Alberta oil sands, a new refinery in B-C and industrial activity in Labrador.
On the other hand, Hamm says he's dealing with a number of Russians, Iranians and Turks who want to move here because it's affordable and close to the water.
Hamm concedes its now taking longer to sell houses from an average of 90 days to as many as 180 days with realtors having to show alot more homes to potential buyers who are well aware they are in control of the market.
We Know Now Where Mel Norton Wants 4-Plex Built
The Mayor will be asking Common Council tonight to approve preliminary discussions with the Port Authority on constructing it at Long Wharf.
Mayor Norton wants to find out how much land might be available and at what cost.
He tells Council the site is central to the L-B-R and Harbour Station with onsite parking and links to several areas of the city via Harbour Passage and bike trails.
Long Wharf was where Irving Oil wanted to build its new headquarters but ran into opposition from the International Longshoremen's Association.
Sunday, November 18, 2012
VIDEO: Canadian Folk Music Association Awards
Prince Edward Island singer-songwriter Rose Cousins nabbed contemporary singer of the year, an award she also received at the 2010 Canadian Folk Music Awards.
The string group The Fretless won two awards, instrumental group and ensemble of the year, for their album "Waterbound." Other winners included violin player Trent Freeman, Montreal's Sagapool and Quebec's Mes Aieux.
Committee Announces Winning Entries In Santa Claus Parade
The Santa Claus Parade Committee has announced the winning entries in last night's parade.
They are as follows:
Winning Entries:
- Best in Parade Harbourview High School
- Best Commercial Entry Bell Aliant
- Best School Lorne Middle School/ Mayor’s Float
- Best Cheerleaders Harbourview High School
- Best Band 527 Simonds
- Best Association/Church Gentle Path Counselling Services
- Chairperson’s choice Xerox
Honourable Mentions:
- Canada Post Mail Carriers
- Independence Plus Handi Bus
- 3034 Blue Mountain Royal Canadian Army Replica
- revolutionary Fire Dancers
- UNBSJ
- Saint John Energy
To see video highlights from last night's parade, click below
Charges Laid Against 16 Year Old In Stabbing.
He was arrested Thursday in Moncton.
There is still a warrant out for the arrest of 22-year-old Bradley Saia in connection with the same incident.
This is the third arrest that has been made in the case.
New Calendar Campaign Raising Money for SPCA Animal Rescue League
Debbie Blakney owns Kwik Kopy Design and Print Center. She recently printed a 2013 wall calendar in which local businesses sponsor adoptable pets for each month. Blakney says she got on board because she's an animal lover herself.
So far, the calendar campaign has raised $5,000. They'll be available for sale at the shelter and select businesses starting Monday. For more information, contact Debbie Blakney at debbie@kkdesign.nb.ca, or Kathy Illingworth at (506) 642-0929.
Youth Unemployment A Major Issue
Currently, 20% of New Brunswickers under the age of 24 don't have jobs. Gallant tells CHSJ News he's heard from a lot of worried young people who say this is the worst year for finding employment they have ever experienced.
Gallant says he was lucky to have good mentors when he started his own small business to make his way through school; however, it's vital for the province to find practical solutions to grow the economy and get people working.
Classic Christmas Tale Comes to Imperial
This year the production will help the Joshua Group by sending 40 kids with accompanying adults to the performance. Artistic Director Sylvia Logan tells CHSJ news there's a brand new set for Act 1 as well as many new costumes.
There are only two productions of the ballet, one on December 8th and a matinee on the 9th. For more information, click here
Cell Phones & Driving Growing Problem In Saint John
For about a year and half it's been illegal to drive a car while using a handheld electronic device, costing you a whopping $170.50 plus 3 points off your license.
City Police Sgt. Jeff LaFrance tells CHSJ news when the law was introduced they initially had very good compliance, but now many people have slid back into their old habits. He says because of this growing trend the police force is going to step up enforcement of the law as part of ongoing safety programs.
According to LaFrance, year-to-date there's been 192 violations. He says it's doesn't matter whether you're talking or texting, they're both dangerous habits that distract your driving. LaFrance adds he's seen people texting with children in their car and even on highways, where one teen flipped their car and ended up in hospital.
He believes there have been at least 2 accidents due to handling phones while driving. LaFrance reminds many people that it only costs $50 for a Bluetooth device, less than a third of the price of a ticket.
Saturday, November 17, 2012
Pre-Parade Party At New Terminal
The Port of Saint John showing off the new Diamond Jubilee Cruise Ship terminal with a pre-parade party from 1 to 3pm on Water street.
The Port's meet and greet volunteers will be hosting tours of the new building's public spaces like the rooftop patio.
Kids can enjoy some hot apple cider, hot chocolate and cookies and get their faces painted before the parade.
Saint John Firefighter Dies From Fall In Ottawa
A 39-year-old man from Saint John has died after falling from a hydraulic lift in Ottawa early Friday morning.
Emergency crews were called to a construction site at around 2:30 a.m. Dale Clinton was rushed to hospital where he later died of his injuries. He fell about 4 1/2 meters off the lift, and friends quickly called 911.
According to a release from the International Association of Fire Fighters, Dale Clinton was attending their Canadian Political Training Academy in Ontario. The final day of the academy was suspended because of the accident.
There was no construction scheduled overnight, and police are not treating the incident as an industrial accident.
Calls have been made to the Saint John Fire Department for comment.
Santa Claus Is Coming To Town
This years theme is "children's dreams, wishes and imaginations," which Leslie Keating from Uptown Saint John says will bring out some favorite childhood characters. She says this year has some pretty creative entries, plus lots of bands and walking groups. Kids are encouraged to write letters to Santa and are reminded to include their return mailing address so the big guy can write back.
Lightly used coats and donations will be collected for the food bank before the parade starts, which Keating says is the biggest single day pick up for the charity.
Local artist Fred Ross is this year's marshal for the 45 minute event, which will follow the same route as last year.
The parade will leave the Causeway, go onto Union St., left on Sydney St., right on King’s Square North, left on Charlotte St., down King St. and on to St. Patrick, on to Main St., right on Lansdowne Ave., and right at Wellesley Blvd. These streets will be closed off during the parade.
People are also asked not to park on King Street after 5pm, or risk being towed. All 4 lanes of the Causeway will be blocked off beginning at 3:30pm for the parade line-up.
The whole show starts at 6pm. For more information, click here.
Police Looking For Man Unlawfully At Large
42 year old William Wayne Cummer was last seen on November 13th. He has an extensive criminal background that involves numerous violent offenses and shouldn't be approached. He's described as being 6' tall, 181 lbs., with brown hair or a shaved head, hazel eyes, with tattoos on face, neck and body.
Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Cummer is asked to contact the Saint John Police at 506-648-3333 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
3rd Arrest Made In Connection With Stabbing
The 16 year old teenager, whose name can't be released, was arrested Thursday in Moncton. The teen appeared in court Friday to answer to appropriate charges.
On November 3rd police were called to a home on Prince Street West, in regards to a home invasion where two young men had been stabbed.
A warrant still exists for 22-year-old Bradley Saia.
Anyone with any information regarding this incident is asked to contact the Saint John Police Force at 648-3333 or Crime Stoppers 1-800-222-8477.
Friday, November 16, 2012
What Is The Gondola Point Ferry Doing In The Saint John Harbour?
We've received word that the William Pitt 2 is still sitting in the Saint John Harbour waiting to be taken for repairs in Nova Scotia. The work is supposed to take a month and is due to begin tomorrow
A call to the Department of Transportation was not immediately returned.
Newly-Minted Liberal Leader Focusing On Jobs
Gallant tells CHSJ News with the soaring unemployment rate the growing economy is number one.
Gallant says we need to grow business here in New Brunswick rather than looking for quick fixes--because quick fixes are what got us into this economic mess in the first place.
Port Announces New Interim Board Chair
The Port Authority Board of Directors announcing their chairman, Stephen Campbell, has resigned to accept a new job in Ottawa.
Former vice-chair Peter Gaulton is the interim chairman of the Saint John Port Authority board of directors.
Gaulton has been a member of the Board since 2008.
New Way To Help Your Local Food Bank
Fortunately, a new partnership called Buy Atlantic, For Atlantic will be giving provincial food banks $1 for every dollar spent on Majesta and Cavendish products. Coupons will be available through local newspapers, flyer home deliveries, and in-store at participating retailers until December 31.
NB Food Bank Association president Greg Piers tells CHSJ News about 1,000 Saint John families rely on the food bank to get by. Further, Piers says, for others Christmas is the only time they need assistance, so it's especially important to be able to provide for everyone.
St. Stephen Students Receive Health Report Cards
That word from Dr. Sohrab Lutchmedial, a heart specialist overseeing the Health Report Card Day at St. Stephen High School.
Grade 10 students were tested on things such as cholesterol, Body Mass Index and self-esteem.
Dr. Lutchmedial says its all about educating the kids.
He says we realize they have to start when the kids are at school instead of dragging them to a hospital setting.
The school will now offer interventions for mental health, an on-site dietitian, as well as opening the gym after school to give students an extra chance to exercise.
Donor Reaches 700th Donation
Harry Cross reaching the 700 mark in plasma donation at a ceremony this morning.
Cross proudly promotes blood donation recruiting friends, family and fellow volunteers and was recognized as an exceptional donor at a national awards ceremony in Ottawa.
The donation comes as Canadian Blood Services announces its 'Dedicate a Holiday Miracle' campaign.
All donors can do so with a holiday card and through the C.B.S. Facebook page with a personalized photo dedication.
For more on the Holiday campaign, click here
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