Friday, April 30, 2010

Advance polling for municipal byelections, plebiscite

Advance polling will take place this Saturday, May 1, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. as part of byelections to fill vacant council positions in nine municipalities.
Regular polling day is Monday, May 10. Voters may contact the returning office in their area to arrange to vote by special ballot. For more information, visit http://www.electionsnb.ca/ or call 1-888-858-VOTE.

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Canada Post seeking proposals for 2012 Stamps

Canada Post today announced its stamp line-up for 2011. The 20 stamp issues and two commemorative envelopes will feature a wide variety of topics and people, including baseball Hall-of-Famer Fergie Jenkins, singers such as the McGarrigle Sisters and Ginette Reno, hydroplane Miss Supertest III and much more. More than a billion Canadian stamps are sold yearly in Canada and worldwide.
Each year hundreds of proposals for the stamp program come in. More than 600 proposals were submitted by Canadians this year and has been narrowed the program to 50 individual stamps on 20 wide-ranging topics. Moya Greene, President and CEO of Canada Post says they are now kicking off the 2012 campaign and inviting Canadians to submit their ideas.

Canadians to submit their ideas for the 2012 Stamp program, Canada Post has created a new stamp page on Facebook www.facebook.com/canadapost

The United States Bureau Of Indian Affairs Ends LNG Agreement

The United States Bureau of Indian Affairs cancelled the lease to build the LNG terminal at Split Rock. This decision was made after five years of litigation.
Groups have been battling the proposed natural Gas Terminal on Tribal land at Split Rock since the original approval in 2005.

The Oklahoma based company has 30 days to vacate the property or file an appeal.

Gas Prices slightly Rise

There has been just a slight increase in gas prices around town after the weekly setting. Self serve regular is one cent a litre higher at 103.3 while the max that diesel can sell for self serve at the pumps for 107.3. Heating oil is at 92.1 cents a litre and propane is listed at 102.9.


Wednesday, April 28, 2010

RCMP arrest two men and seize drug in Moncton

Two Men from Moncton under arrest after RCMP watch a drug transaction go down in the City.

Police seized a variety of drugs prepackaged for resale such as marijuana, drugs believed to be ecstasy, prescription medication and cash.

Both have a court date set for July to face the charges of possession and trafficking.

Monday, April 26, 2010

ATV crash sends three men to St. John Regional Hospital

One man remains in critical condition and another is in stable condition after their All Terrain Vehicles collided over the weekend in Canterbury. A third man involved in the accident was treated and released from hospital.

RCMP continue to investigate the cause of the collision but do tell us it appears all three riders were wearing their helmets.

Saturday, April 24, 2010

River Levels Around the Province Are Good

With little or no rain expected over the next three days, River Watch believes water levels along the St. John River basin will continue to drop over the weekend.


All areas are presently well below flood stage and should remain so for the foreseeable future.


River Watch will not issue any further bulletins unless there is a major change to the weather pattern that might bring a threat of flooding.



Hospital Beds at The Regional Are Not Closing

Acting Health Minister Greg Byrne disputes Rothesay Conservatiove MLA Margaret Ann Blaney's claim that despite a new nursing home opening in Quispamsis, 40 beds will close the Regional Hospital.


Byrne says there is no truth to that and the beds will be available. He finds it disconcerting that Blaney would mislead the public this way.


Blaney told us earlier this week that despite the new nursing home opening in Quispamis making 60 beds available in hospital, 40 beds would close at the Regional.

Friday, April 23, 2010

Calais regional Hospital has new OB/GYN

The Calais Hospital has a new OB/GYN. Dr. DeMasi says he was drawn to the Calais area because the hospital is welcoming and he was impressed with the technology available.

DeMasi earned his Doctor of Osteopathy from The Philadelphia College Osteopathic Medicine and is currently taking patients.










Dr. DeMasi OB/GYN

Maine Wins $30 Million Energy Efficiency Grant

Governor John E. Baldacci announced that Maine has received $30 million dollars in a federal grant from The Recovery Act to fund energy efficiency upgrades in Maine.

The grant will establish a revolving loan fund called the Maine Home Performance Fund to make buildings more energy efficient. Maine’s aging housing stock and high cost of fuel is proof that there is potential value of retrofitting homes and businesses to improve energy efficiency.

Maine has one of the highest rates of homeowners in the country.

Tour for the Cure in St. Stephen

The Big Pink Bus is in town today to bring awareness to Breast Cancer. Caet Moir and Deanna Jones have been traveling across the province to promote awareness to both men and women about breast cancer.

Breast Cancer continues to be the most frequently diagnosed cancer in Atlantic Canadian women.

The girls on the bus encourage everyone to get out today and learn how to give yourself an exam for early detection.

The Tour for the Cure will be in St. Stephen today at Sobey's till 6 then they are off to Fredericton.





 
 
 
 
 
 

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Enbridge Gas New Brunswick celebrates Earth Day with St. George clean up

In honor of Earth Day, Enbridge Gas is organizing a community clean up in the Town of St. George on Thursday, April 22.
Employees from Enbridge Gas New Brunswick are partnering with Environmental Science students from Fundy High School, as well as other members of the community to clean up litter and debris throughout the Town.

The clean up will begin at the Civic Center at 10:30 a.m. and will end at approximately 2:30 p.m.

A rain date has been scheduled for April 29.

Lieutenant-governor named honorary patron of heritage fairs

A stop in St. Stephen today for Lt - Gove Graydon Nicholas as he has been named honorary patron for heritage fairs in New Brunswick, Wellness, Culture and Sport. Today's Hertiage Fair  will be at the Kirk-McColl United Church Hall.

As honorary patron, Nicholas will be the presiding dignitary at all 15 regional heritage fairs taking place this April and May.
Organized at the provincial and district level by elementary, middle and high schools, the regional heritage fairs provide an innovative learning opportunity for social studies students wishing to study their provincial and national history.

Fifteen students will be selected to attend the provincial showcase taking place at the Village Historique Acadien June 25-27.

Lawn care pesticide ban in effect

Residents around the province are reminded that the sale and use of more than 240 over-the-counter lawn care pesticide products, and the use of all 2,4-D products, on domestic lawns in the province has been banned by the Department of Environment.

Tuesday, April 20, 2010

Fatal Motor Vehicle Collision

A woman from Nova Scotia is dead after a two-vehicle crash yesterday afternoon. It happened at the intersection of Highways 170 & 127 outside St. Andrews.


The driver of the vehicle, the woman's husband was injured but nothing serious and was taken to hospital. RCMP tell us the vehicle failed to stop at the intersection when it hit a tractor trailer

Monday, April 19, 2010

Give-A-Day, Get-A-Disney-Day

The St. Stephen Volunteer Centre recently adopted the Give-A-Day, Get-A-Disney-Day program in partnership with Volunteer Canada and Disney World.

The Give-A-Day, Get-A-Disney-Day program offered one ticket per person for free admission to Disney World in Florida. Participants were required to complete a day of verified volunteer service with a participating non-profit organization.

The program was open to adults and children. One million free passes were presented by Disney to volunteers across the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada in two months in 2010, fulfilling the goal of the program for this year.

The Volunteer Centre of Charlotte County, established in 1982, encourages volunteerism and the sharing of information about community needs.

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer may contact a centre at 506-466-4995 in St. Stephen.

Highway Website

With the summer months quickly approaching, those leisurely Sunday drives can quickly become a pain with lots of road construction going on around the province.

Well the provnicial government is launching a website to help alleviate those concerns.

Transportation Minister Denis Landry says the tool will allow commuters, tourists and businesspeople the opportunity to take a look at all road work being done aroudn the province to help plan their trips.

The website will feature a project map, with icons giving information on current construction, future projects, as well as recently completed jobs.

For More Information http://www.gnb.ca/0113/Projects/proj-list-e.asp

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Forest Fire Season Starts Tomorrow

Forest fire season around the Province gets started tomorrow and runs until Halloween. Charles Beaulieu is a wild-fire prevention officer and tells us, grass and brush fires started by home-owners are a huge problem.

Last year, 251 hectares of wooded area were lost because of 195 forest fires but Beaulieu calls that a slow year due to all the rain. To find out if your in an area that does allow burning, you can call 1-866-458-8080.

Deadline for Taxes Quickly Approaching

The end of the month is a little less than two weeks away -- and -- that should ring a bell.
We have until April 30th to file our tax returns -- and -- Roger Haineault of Help 4 Taxes tells us  the home renovation tax credit is proving to be a popular deduction this year:
Haineault says about half of the 25-million Canadians who should file an income tax return will do so over the next two weeks.

Saturday, April 17, 2010

Teen Convicted Of Murder Sentenced

A 16 year old girl from the Hampton area has been given the maximum sentence allowed under the Youth Justice Act for second degree murder. She stabbed 78 year old Frank Tonge in the neck with a butcher knife in his Damacus home and has been handed 4 years in jail followed by 3 years of supervision in the community. Prosecutor Lucie Mathurin says the girl, whose name can't be released, will undergo intensive rehabilitation.The programme costs 100 thousand dollars a year but defense lawyer Dave Lutz maintains she's worth it. He goes on to say she has led a traumatised life thus far but he's confident she can turn things around.
Mr. Justice Hugh McLellen acknowledged the victim shared marijuana with her and engaged in inappropriate sexual touching but he added the law does not condone the idea that people who feel victimised can kill those who have wronged them.

Body of Missing Fisherman Found And Identified

Friends and family of Scott Jeffrey Pineo are mourning his loss. The 23-year old Quispamsis man has been identified as one of two fisherman who fell into the Nerepis River when a boat overturned and drowned. The other man in the boat managed to swim to shore Thursday afternoon but neither was wearing a life jacket. Pineo's body was found close to where the boat capsized late yesterday afternoon.

Friday, April 16, 2010

National Volunteer Week April 18-24

New Brunswickers volunteer more than 50 million hours a year. They work 24,000 full-time jobs without pay for causes they care about.
National Volunteer Week pays tribute to these dedicated individuals who donate their time and energy toward helping others. Across Canada, about 12 million volunteers devote themselves to charitable work and non-profit organizations.

Missing Man feared drowned durning a fishing trip

No name is being released after a 23-year old man is missing and may have drowned during a fishing trip in Grand Bay Westfield.

RCMP was called to the Nerepis River this afternoon just after twelve o'clock to find an over-turned boat.

One of the men in the boat managed to swim to shore but the 23-year old is believed to have drowned.

Officers says the initial investigation shows neither man was wearing a life jacket.

Saint John Man guilty of attempted Murder

A Saint John man will be sentenced next month on three charges including attempted murder.
55-year old Adrienne Lepage had already pleaded guilty to charges of robbery and abduction.

The attempted murder charge was handed down this afternoon by Judge Henrick Tonning.

The charges stem from when the Barnwood Pub in Quispamsis was robbed in November of last year.

Sargeant Craig McDougall is head of major crime with Rothesay Regional Police and says this is one of the most serious crimes he has seen.

Judge Tonning called Lepage's actions cold and calculated.

He duct taped 22-year old Jessica Michaels hands and legs, threw her in the back of a van, drove her to a gravel pit in Lepreau, duct taped a bag over her head and left her.

Sentencing will take place in Hampton on May.27th.










(Adrienne Lepage Escorted From Hampton Court)

(Photo by Jim Hennessy)

Prescribed Burn in Baring Maine

The Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge will conduct prescribed burns today and Saturday April 16 & 17.

Motorists on the Charlotte Road in Baring Maine will need to be aware.Warning signs will be posted to advise drivers of an hazardous conditions.

If people spot smoke within the Moosehorn Refuge and you're not sure it's the prescribed burn call the refuge's office at 454-7161. The speed limit on the Charlotte Road within the refuge area is posted at 45 miles-per-hour.

For more information on Fire Management on National Wildlife Refuges visit www.fws.gov/fire/

Calais Regional Hospital Participates in Flags Across America for Donate Life Month

April is National Donate Life Month. To recognize the month, Calais Regional Hospital is participating in Flags Across America, a Donate Life America initiative.
A Donate Life flag will be on display at the hospital during the month of April to honor and celebrate the hundreds of thousands of donors and recipients whose lives have been affected by organ, eye and tissue donation.

The Flags Across America initiative is meant to encourage the public to designate donation decisions by registering their wishes in their state donor registries.

Calais Regional Hospital is proud to support organ and tissue donation efforts. To register or learn more about organ and tissue donation visit www.donatelife.net or contact Barbara Clark, RN at Calais Regional Hospital at 454-7521.


Thursday, April 15, 2010

It's Paddlefest Time once again...

The 16th annual Paddlefest Music Festival will be held in Saint Andrews from Friday, May 7th until Sunday, May 9th. For the first time Paddlefest will be held in the town square.

Originally organized by Periwinkle Productions' Jamie Steel and passed down to local business owner Kevin Simmonds and music promoter/adventure recreation alumni Stacey MacLean.

Paddlefest continues to be a highlight in the small town, and its first true sign of spring.

Over the years Paddlefest a major attraction to people from across the province and beyond.

This year's event features a wide range of music, both from local performers and acts from across Canada, with a mixture of outdoor activities, a Saturday songwriters circle as well as a Farmer's Market.

Paddlefest corresponds with the yearly Town Wide Yard Sale as well.

For more information http://www.standrewspaddlefest.ca/

Corporte Food Challenge to be held in June

The St Stephen Area Chamber of Commerce will be hosting a golf tournament at the St Stephen Golf Club to raise funds and food for the Food Bank on June 4th.
In addition to the Golf Tournament there will be a silent auction held on the 4th with bidding between 12pm-5pm.  There will be a BBQ for golfers starting at 5pm and prizes will be awarded to all golfers who participate.

In the weeks leading up to the tournament there will be a Corporate Food Challenge which will have some St Stephen businesses competing against each other to see who can collect the most food to donate to the cause.

If you are interested in competing in the corporate challenge could you please contact Danielle Sullivan at 506.466.5055 or danielle.sullivan@cbdc.ca before April 28th. The challenge will run May 3 - 28.

Governor Signs Order to Put Maine in Better Position to Access Federal Education Funds

Governor John E. Baldacci issued an Executive Order to put Maine in a better position to compete for a portion of the $4.3 billion in federal Race to the Top education funds.

The order directs the Commissioner of the Maine Department of Education to establish a stakeholder group to review potential models for evaluating teacher and principal performance, a critical requirement of the federal competitive grant program.

The federal standard for Race to the Top requires that school districts be able to use student achievement as one of a multiple of elements in teacher and principal evaluations.

Maine needs to have a process for developing the models well underway by June 1 to meet the application deadline of the federal government.

High School Students attend 17th annual Job Fest

Students from St. Stephen to Sussex are getting a chance to test their job-hunting skills as the 17th annual Job Fest today at the Saint John Trade and Convention Centre.
The Job Fest is an initiative of the Government of New Brunswick, J.D. Irving Ltd. and school districts 10, 8 and 6.

These presentations cover subjects such as how to write résumés and cover letters; and how to participate in job interviews effectively.

Law Week

A new informative website is among the initiatives that will help mark Law Day, today in the province. Law Week events will be held in New Brunswick from April 11 to 17.

To celebrate Law Day and promote access to a range of public law-information services at http://www.familylawnb.ca/

Man receives 1.3 million dollar fine for contraband tobacco

A Moncton man has been ordered to pay fines of $1,330,600 in connection with a major seizure of contraband tobacco.
Trevor Howie Dow was stopped in 2008 and caught with more than two million contraband tobacco cigarettes.

Gas Prices Cheaper today....

The price of gas is cheaper this morning after the weekly setting. Self serve regular is down a couple of cents at 102 a litre. Diesel is also lower at 103.9. Furnace oil is listed at 91.7 and propane is 103.5 a litre.

Meanwhile cross border gas is selling for .81 cents and litre Canadian.

Wednesday, April 14, 2010

Arrest Made in False Bomb Scare at SSHS

St Stephen RCMP have arrested a youth, under the age of 18 that admitted to making the false bomb threat that was received at the St Stephen High School on Monday. The youth was released on conditions and will be appearing in court at a later date..

RCMP Safety Presentation

The RCMP and St. George Elemantary Home and School have teamed up to offer a Parent Internet Safety Presentation.

This event will help Parents and children learn to protect themselves while on the internet.

The presentation is set for this Thursday at The St. George Elementary school at 6:30... All Parents and student of District ten are encourged to come.

Pink Shirt Day

We hear in the news often to much! Bullying... when will it stop.
Locals here in Charlotte County will be doing their part to raise awareness about bullying by wearing their Pink Shirts Today .You 'll see them at Scotia Bank, Just for Kids the Courier and the Boys and Girls club just to name a few.

School District Ten will be participating in Pink Shirt Day along with School Districts across the Province.

Local Business will also be doing their parts around the town to promote the awareness against bullying...

Reports confirm that bullying is starting at younger ages and is far more frequent and aggressive than ever before.

Make sure to send your pictures to the tide.ca of your groups do your part to curve bullying in our area!

For More information on Pink Shirt Day .... http://www.pinkshirtday.ca/

Monday, April 12, 2010

Close Call For Senior In Hampton

This story will serve as a reminder that no matter where you live or whether your home, it never hurts to keep your doors locked. A 72-year old woman in Hampton got quite a scare yesterday when she walked into her living room and found two men standing there.

They told her they were there to ask about a vehicle she had for sale in her yard. They didn't wait for an answer, jumped into the green half ton pick-up they were driving and took off toward Norton. One man is described as 60-years old and wearing a plaid shirt and a black ball cap. The other man is 40-years old and was wearing an orange and white t-shirt.

7Wonders Director Visits Bay

The Director of the New7Wonders Foundation will visit the Hopewell Rocks on Wednesday afternoon. This as the Bay of Fundy continues it's campaign to lock up the number one spot. He will meet with regional and national tourism representatives to discuss strategies and identify opportunities in this international campaign.
This is the first time the Organization has been to Canada since the Bay of Fundy was announced as a global finalist in the New7Wonders of Nature Campaign. The winner will be announced on November.11th.

Portage Alantic hosts breakfast to share info for Drug Addiction youth ....

Officials from Portage Alantic  held a community breakfast this morning in Saint Andrews to offer information for their Services ..Portage is a residential treatment center for youth between the Ages of 14 to 21 with serious substance abuse problems. Portage officials say that more funding is needed to help this program. Currently there are thirty six beds allotted for New Brunswick youth but as reps point out that's not nearly enough... Most young people have to be put on a waiting list. .. Portage is a non profit group but it takes about 140 per day per youth for this program.Tambrea Hicks the former Director of The St. Stephen Charlotte County Boys and girls club now omission coordinator for Portage says this program provides help and hope for the youth of the future. Portage Teaches adolescents understand their problems and teach them the skills they need for community living rather than escape thru drugs. The program runs about six months. For More Information http://www.portage.ca/

Friday, April 9, 2010

Earth Day Bar Road Saint Andrews

Following the success of last year’s Earth Day beach clean up at Indian Point, the Huntsman Marine Science Centre will once again be coordinating the clean up of a local beach in honour of Earth Day.

As Earth Day, which is April 22, falls on a Thursday this year, the event will take place on Saturday, April 17, at the Bar Road in St. Andrews.

The clean up will start at 9 a.m. and Huntsman will be providing the garbage bags and gloves.

Last year, around 50 people, from pre-schoolers to seniors, came out and collected a pick-up truck full of garbage from the beach.

For more information on this event, the first of 2010 at the Huntsman, please call 529-1200, or visit http://www.huntsmanmarine.ca/

RCMP seek Public's help in St.Stephen

Local RCMP are asking for the public's help in finding out who spray painted random vehicles in St. Stephen on the evening of March 24th.

Targeted vehicles were parked on School, Queen and King Streets.

Anyone with information are asked to contact the St. Stephen RCMP Detachment at (506) 466-7030, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.

$52,000 to support volunteer firefighter training

The provincial government has invested $52,000 in grants to the New Brunswick Association of Fire Chiefs.

This money will support training for volunteer firefighters across the Province.

The enhanced training program can provide basic firefighter Level 1 training for up to 400 volunteer firefighters each year at no cost to local fire departments.

Thursday, April 8, 2010

Route 1 Gateway Official Signing and Construction Awarded

 The official signing of agreements for the construction of the Route 1 Gateway Project from St. Stephen to River Glade was held this Morning.

Premier Shawn Graham and Transportation Minister Denis Landry along with Charlotte The Isles MLA Rick Doucett was on hand with Dexter Construction officials.

The Premier tells Tide News this will create over 900 hundred job for the area for the next 41 month.

The deal worth 580 million dollars will see the MacKay Highway expanded to six lanes, and construction of the final 55 kilometres of four-lane highway on Route 1 from Waweig to St. George and between Pennfield and Lepreau.

The Route 1 Gateway Project also includes major upgrades at the Digdeguash River, Magaguadavic River, Letang River, Pocologan River, New River and Lepreau River crossings along with the installation of new guardrails on a number of bridges and overpasses along the Route 1 corridor.

Cooke Aquaculture Inc 50 Best for 5 straight years

Michael Cooke, centre, co-owner of Blacks Harbour-based Cooke Aquaculture Inc., accepts the company’s 2009 Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies award at the Westin Nova Scotian in Halifax on Wednesday, April 7. Joining him are members of the Cooke Aquaculture team. From left are Matthew Miller, Rodney O’Neil, Cooke, Jeff Nickerson, John Garland and Mike McGlone. Cooke has been recognized as one of Canada’s 50 Best Managed Companies for the past five years. Program sponsors are Deloitte, CIBC Commercial Banking, National Post and Queen's School of Business. For further information, http://www.canadas50best.com/

Flights-Restrictions

Starting today, Canadians flying to the U.S. can take two carry-on bags and personal items with them on a plane.
Restrictions on carry-ons were imposed after a botched Christmas Day terror attack on a flight to Detroit from Amsterdam.

Those new security measures include full body scanners at airports and a strengthening of explosive trace detection.

Passengers are asked to check with the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (http://www.catsa.gc.ca/) or their airline for items that are allowed in carry-on luggage.

(The Canadian Press)

Gas Prices on the Rise

It might have been a good idea to fill up yesterday before the weekly setting. There has been a significant rise in the price of self serve regular of more than 3 cents a litre. The maximum that can be charged is 106.7. Diesel also increased to 104.8 a litre. Furnace oil is also costing you more at 92.4 but there has been another yet another decline in the price of propane which is now listed at 103.2.

April is Records and Information Management Month

April has been proclaimed Records and Information Management Month in New Brunswick by Premier Shawn Graham.
The declaration recognizes the work of the Atlantic Chapter of ARMA International.

ARMA International has 150 chapters which represent more than 10,000 members worldwid.

The members work in a wide variety of industries, including government, legal, healthcare, financial services and the oil and gas sector.

Literacy, essential skills project for First Nations

The federal and provincial governments are investing about $1.2 million in a project to help Aboriginal adults with low literacy skills.

The announcement was made by Human Resources Minister Rick Brewer, who is also the minister responsible for the Aboriginal Affairs Secretariat; and Keith Ashfield, minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.

The provincial government is contributing close to $300,000 through the Training and Skills Development program.

The Joint Economic Development Initiative will receive $936,300 for its New Brunswick Aboriginal WES project through the Adult Learning, Literacy and Essential Skills Program.

Construction contracts awarded in Greater Fredericton

The provincial government has awarded five construction contracts in Greater Fredericton as part of the $439.3 million capital budget of the Department of Transportation for 2010-11.
A $2.2-million contract was awarded to HBH Paving Ltd. of Island View, $2.1-million contract was awarded to Springhill Construction Ltd. of Fredericton,$2.74-million contract was awarded to Springhill Construction Ltd., $723,000-contract was awarded to L & S Boudreau Excavation ltee of Tracadie-Sheila and $250,000-contract was awarded to Redem Construction Ltd.

Graham noted that the provincial government has awarded 23 other clearing and construction contracts. These are in addition to the $77.3 million announced for Phase 2 of the Princess Margaret Bridge rehabilitation project.

The premier also noted that $30 million is budgeted to continue the Route 8 Marysville-Nashwaak bypass project: the funding is for two bridges that are under construction.

Saint Andrerws Town Clean Up

The Town will be picking up leaves and garden brush on a continuous basis until Monday, May 31st, after this date the Town will not pick up leaves or garden brush and it will be the responsibility of the property owner to place all waste at the curbside for the regular Thursday collection. Leaves in clear bags will be composted. Bags are available at the Town Office at $2.00 per 10.

Brush and tree branches are to be tied in bundles not exceeding 3 feet in length, 2 feet in diameter and 50 pounds in weight.

Loose brush and tree branches not tied and bundled may be brought to the Town Public Works Yard and placed in the designated chipping area.

The collection and disposal of the following items shall be the responsibility of the property owners: discarded building materials such as lumber and construction materials used for erection, alteration, demolition or repair of buildings or structures, residue from trees such as roots, stumps, trunks and branches larger than 3 inches in diameter, discarded metals, piping, fencing, tools, swimming pools, automobiles, snowmobiles, motorcycles, bicycles or related parts, stones, rocks, sand, gravel, manure, the remains or carcasses of any dead animals, or any other discarded material other than garbage, petroleum products, radio-active or any other hazardous wastes.”

Route 1 Gateway Signing and Construction Update

The official signing of agreements and a construction update for the Route 1 Gateway Project from St. Stephen to River Glade will be held today at 10:30 in Maguagadavic Place. Premier Shawn Graham and Transportation Minister Denis Landry will participate with Dexter Construction Co. Ltd officials.

Wednesday, April 7, 2010

43-year-old missing man found

The 43-year-old man from Pointe de Bute, near Sackville who was reported missing by his family  was safely located  in Moncton.

Grand Manan Rink Donation

Residents of Grand Manan island hope to be skating and playing hockey on home ice next winter now that the community has raised more than $100,000 toward a $1.2 million indoor rink.

Cooke Aquaculture has contributed $50,000 to wards the new indoor rink on Grand Manan

The community had raised $60,000 toward its $110,000 goal and the Cooke donation has put the fundraising campaign over the top.”

It will take about $1.2 million to finish the rink, including an ice-making plant. The province has committed $400,000 and the village council is expected to approve a $300,000 contribution.

Charlotte-The Isles MLA and provincial Fisheries Minister Rick Doucet was on hand

The Grand Manan rink campaign started Feb. 2 with a $15,000 contribution from the Grand Manan Rotary Club. Admiral Fish Farms Ltd. on Grand Manan contributed $10,000, the first corporate donation to the project.

Pete Sesplankis, Executive Director of the Grand Manan Boys and Girls Club, said hundreds of islanders have been using the community centre and he said when the arena opens he expects the facility will be the hub of island life.





 
 
 
 
From left: Randy Brownlee, president of the Grand Manan arena committee, Mayor Dennis Greene, MLA and Fisheries Minister Rick Doucet, Pete Sesplankis, Executive Director of the Grand Manan Boys and Girls Club and Michael Cooke, co-owner of Cooke Aquaculture, celebrate the presentation of a $50,000 cheque from Cooke to the Grand Manan arena project.

Missing Man

RCMP in Sackville are asking for the public's help in locating a missing 43-year-old man.

Robert Bruce Porter is believed to be driving a red Chevrolet Tracker and was last seen at a motel in Moncton on March 30.

Porter is five-foot-10, weighs about 200 pounds, has greying hair, a goatee and wears glasses.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the District 4 RCMP or Crime Stoppers.

Tuesday, April 6, 2010

The Maine Fishing Guide a New Online Tool for Planning Fishing Trips

Designed by the Fisheries Division of the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife, “The Maine Fishing Guide” is an online tool to assist anglers with locating Maine’s sportfish locations, and to give them ideas to plan their next outdoor fishing adventure.

This tool is unique among the states and makes Maine a leader in providing information to anglers in a unique, useable format.

The Maine Fishing Guide is configured on GoogleEarth software, which users may download onto their computer from the guide’s home page.

The Maine Fishing Guide can be found by selecting the link at http://www.mefishwildlife.com/ or go directly to http://www.maine.gov/ifw/fishing/fishingGuide.html.

Governor Signs Legislation to Improve Air Quality in Maine

Governor John E. Baldacci held a State House ceremony to celebrate the signing of An Act to Improve Maine’s Air Quality and Reduce Regional Haze at Acadia National Park and Other Federally Designated Class Areas.

The legislation establishes incremental reductions in the sulfur content of all fuel oils sold in the State of Maine beginning in 2016. Final reductions will take place in 2018.

Regional health impact studies have suggested that Maine can save nearly $150 million in avoided health costs associated with the implementation of this program.

In addition, future visitors to Maine’s pristine federal parks and wilderness areas. Acadia National Park, Campobello International Park, and Moosehorn National Wildlife Wilderness Area - will be able to see improvements when visiting these areas.

Federal Government supports strategic efforts to expand Dairy Sector

The Atlantic Dairy and Forage Institute is exploring new opportunities for regional and international growth through development of a strategic plan, thanks to an investment by the federal government, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.

The Honourable Greg Thompson, MP New Brunswick Southwest made the announcement on behalf of the Honourable Keith Ashfield, Minister of National Revenue, Minister of ACOA, and Minister for the Atlantic Gateway along with ADFI officials at the Institute today.

The Government of Canada, through ACOA, is investing $30,250 toward the project under the Innovative Communities Fund while ADFI is contributing $8,000.

Monday, April 5, 2010

New Bay of Fundy Discovery Centre to Feature Local Fishery Stories

The story of how our very own natural wonder, the Bay of Fundy will be told at the new discovery centre at the Huntsman Marine Science Centre.

Three influential organizations in the Bay of Fundy area, Cooke Aquaculture, the Atlantic Salmon Federation and Connors Bros. Clover Leaf Seafoods have each agreed to contribute toward the development of three large information panels that will tell their story to visitors to the new centre, which is expected to open to the public in summer, 2011.

Cooke Aquaculture contributing $25,000, The Atlantic Salmon Federation, contributing of $25,000 and Connors Bros. has contributed $20,000 to the new Discovery Centre.

The cost of the new centre is $8 million, with $5 million of that contributed from the federal and provincial governments and the remainder being raised by the Huntsman. With $1 million already raised through previous fundraising, the Seal the Deal campaign was launched in October to find the additional $2 million needed. That campaign has already reached the $600,000 mark, and efforts to reach the goal are ongoing.

Pets will be better protected in New Brunswick thanks to stricter rules proposed by government.

New rules for pet stores, kennels and animal shelters


The provincial government plans to adopt a new regulation under the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act which will define specific standards for pet establishments, such as pet stores, animal shelters and kennels, and enable their licensing and inspection.

The changes will apply to both commercial and non-commercial establishments in municipalities and rural areas. In addition, owners of more than five dogs, over six months of age, will be required to adhere to nationally established standards of care for those animals.

For More info http://www.gnb.ca/0062/regs/s-12reg.htm

Damage to Crown roads discouraged

Conservation officers will be patrolling Crown woods roads to discourage their use during the spring thaw period when dirt roads are easily damaged.
Individuals using the roads to get to their camps or wood properties are not being targeted.

There will be patrols on Crown land and officers may issue ministerial orders for vehicle operators to vacate an area until the roads have dried.

Failure to comply with a ministerial order or signage posted under the authority of the act may result in charges. Depending upon the charge, a conviction could lead to fines of $140 to $500 for a first offence.

Festival by the Marsh to Hold Open Auditions for "Much Ado About Nothing"

This year's edition of the Festival by the Marsh will run July 9 to 25, and includes the Marsh Music Festival, Fine Arts shows and workshops, Writers Fest Day, Kids Fest, theatre, and more.


After five years at the Mount Allison Swan Pond, this year the Festival will be holding performances in a tent in downtown Sackville and will also tour for a performance in St Andrews by the Sea, where it will be performed outdoors.

Auditions will be held Tuesday, April 6 from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. and Wednesday April 7 from 8 p.m. 10:00 p.m.

Auditioners can contact the festival at festival@mta.ca (or 364-2179) to book a time during these hours or to request a time outside of these hours of they are unable to attend then or can simply show up at the auditions.

After 16 years in Business owners sell Old Town Tavern

The 11 th Annual Old Town Tavern Harley Draw closed out the end of March and raised more than seven thousand dollars for The Charlotte County Cancer society, but it also said good by to the owners Donna and John Seifert. After 16 years in Business the couple from Saint John have sold their bar to a couple from Ontario.

The new owners are Gerri Dickerson & Rick Storm. officially took over the OTT on April 1st.

Over the years the Tavern has held 11 Harley Draws and was known for their annual pudding wrestling Contests during Chocolate Fest and have raised numerous funds for local charity's.

Donna and John Seifert would like to thank their friends & patrons for 16 years of support & that they will truly be missed. And wish the new owners success in there new venture - hope they have as many good memories as they had.

Annual Fundraising Dinner & Auction for the SPCA

The Charlotte County SPCA is hosting its annual fundraising dinner and auction on Saturday, April 10th in the Lady Dunn Dining Room at NBCC St. Andrews. Tickets for this always fun event are $40 per person and can be purchased at the Charlotte County Animal Shelter, Allure Fashion in St. Stephen and The Leather House in St. Andrews. Enjoy a delicious meal and help the animals at the same time by bidding on some of the wonderful items in the auction. Visit our website at http://www.cc-spca.petfinder.com/ or call 465-7657 for more info.

Haile & Matthew Tall Ships head to Haiti...

The Eastport, Maine schooner Halie & Matthew is on route to Haiti with nearly 45 thousand pounds of food and medical equipment on board.

Capt. Jared Talar-ski, who has already delivered 10 thousand pounds of relief supplies to Haiti for other non-profits aboard the schooner Liberty , said he decided to charter the larger vessel after its owners agreed to rent out the Halie & Matthew at a nominal cost to cover dock fees, food and other basic expenses.

While the earthquake in Haiti may have faded from the headlines, international relief organizations continue their work -- often finding creative ways to overcome shrinking funds and difficult logistics.

Calais Regional Hospital Lab Receives Certification

The Calais Regional Hospital Laboratory announced that they have successfully passed the State of Maine survey for CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments) certification, following an onsite inspection.
During the inspection process, surveyors examine the laboratory's records and quality control procedures, staff qualifications, the laboratory's equipment, facilities, safety program and record, as well as the overall management of the laboratory.

The CRH Laboratory processes over 220,000 tests a year.










The laboratory, under the direction of Jake Thayer, MT and overseen by Dr. Rick Riemersma, Laboratory staff also includes medical technologists Billie-Jo Leighton, Megan Laplant, Kimberley Doughty, Laura Chadwick, Tara Cooke, Elaine Mockler, Avis Miller and Mark Kidder; phlebotomists Patty Lindsay, Becky Thornton-Harriman, Pauline Beach and Avis Miller.

Friday, April 2, 2010

Water level watch issued along Saint John River

Above-freezing temperatures forecast for the next 72 hours over the St. John River basin will cause a continuous snow melt. With rainfall received over the past 36 hours, water levels along the St. John River will continue to increase.

The following water level advisory is issued by River Watch 2010 and the Department of Public Safety's New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization .

Minimum wage increases by 25 cents per hour

The minimum wage in New Brunswick has increased by 25 cents an hour  rising to $8.50 per hour from $8.25 per hour.
This is the sixth increase since October 2006, when minimum wage was $6.70 per hour.  The next scheduled increase will be in September bringing minimum wage to $9.00 an hour. Looking ahead to 2011 on September 1st  the minimum wage will rise to $10.00 an hour.

With the current increase, an individual working 40 hours a week will earn a minimum of $340 per week, which is a 27 per cent increase over the $268 per week earned for the same number of hours on minimum wage in October 2006.

.

Charlotte the Isles MLA Shocked by Act of Animal Cruelty

A horrified community is rallying to find the person responsible for a possible case of animal cruelty.


RCMP are still looking for who-ever tied a dog to a tree in a blueberry field on the Old St. Andrews Road in St. George last month that was left for wild animals to attack and feed on.

Charlotte the Isles MLA Rick Doucet tells Tide News, it's hard to believe anyone could do this.

Doucet is putting up $1000 dollars of his own money to anyone who can offer information that may lead to the arrest of the person or persons responsible.

Thursday, April 1, 2010

More Illegal Smokes Off the Street

Thousand of illegal cigarettes destined for Nova Scotia are now in possession of the RCMP. Officers stopped a vehicle in St. Leonard this week and arrested a 65-year-old man from Nova Scotia for being in possession of contraband cigarettes.
260,000 smokes have been seized and the man is due in court June.2nd.