Saturday, June 30, 2012

Happy Canada Day, Saint Andrews!

Saint Andrews by the Sea is celebrating Canada Day in true maritime style. The village hosting a parade, antique car show, sunrise ceremony, dog show and more. 

Deputy Mayor Cate Agaki tells CHSJ news Canada Day is a big deal in Saint Andrews--and the village goes all out with day-long events, a parade and more. She also says there will be a surprise after the fireworks finish up--but you'll have to come out and see what it is for yourself.

For a full schedule of Canada Day events in Saint Andrews, click here

No Vacancy: City Lock Up Full

The Saint John Detention Centre is full. Something some Saint John City Police say they've never seen. Police tell CHSJ news the full-house comes after a night full of fights, assaults, and breathalyzers. Many of the arrests were made around the Market Square Boardwalk. Police will have extra officers on deck for the long-weekend as part of their Bar Safety patrol. Overflow of people arrested will be sent to Hampton Jail.

Friday, June 29, 2012

Whirligigs Galore All Summer


If you're looking for something different to do this Canada Day weekend - the Whirligigs exhibits may just be the answer.
The Beaverbrook Art Gallery in Fredericton and Kingsbrae Garden in St Andrews have various pieces of whirligigs artwork by Atlantic Canadian artists on display from now until September 15th.
The Kingsbrae Garden exhibit opened earlier this month while the Beaverbrook Art Gallery held it's official opening of the exhibit last night.
Acadia Broadcasting Limited - the parent company of Country 94 and 97.3 the Wave - is a proud sponsor of the exhibits.

Local Convenience Store Suffers from Coffee Culprit

District 1 RCMP say 9 Keurig coffee machines and a large amount of coffee was stolen this week from Stewart's Convenience Store in St. Stephen.


The loss to the family-owned business is estimated at well over $1500.

Sgt. Bob MacKnight says the break and enter took place sometime between Tuesday, June 26th, and Thursday, June 28th.

He says all the machines can be identified and anyone found in possession of the stolen property will be prosecuted.

Anyone with information on the crime is asked to call St. Stephen RCMP at 466-7030 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Local Man Suffers Fatal Injuries In Lawrence Station

An accident in Lawrence Station yesterday, taking the life of a 42-year-old man.


District 1 RCMP Sgt. Bob MacKnight tell Tide News Allen Jordan died yesterday after suffering a serious injury while working on a vehicle.

Police, fire, and ambulance services were called around 3pm to a home on the Lawrence Road.

Police say Jordan died at the scene and believe the death was accidental.

Thursday, June 28, 2012

Time To Celebrate Everything Motorcycle!

Bikers, get ready for your time to shine.


The first Rally In The St. Croix Valley kicks off Canada Day, with a week-long schedule.

The motorcycle festival hosting a number of unique events, including hair cuts for "Locks Of Love", a Miss Rally In The St. Croix Valley bikini contest, pig roasts, themed guided bike tours, as well as live music most nights on the St. Stephen waterfront from 7-10pm.

Officials say proceeds will be donated to veterans and active service members.

Opening ceremonies will start at 11am on Sunday at the Ferry Point International Bridge.

Wednesday, June 27, 2012

Oak Bay Man Found Dead

An unfortunate end to the search for a man reported missing from Oak Bay.


RCMP tell Tide News the body of 60-year-old Jeffrey Ingalls was found yesterday afternoon in a wooded area, less than a kilometre from his home on Route 760.

Ingalls was reported missing Monday, June 25th.

Police say foul play was not involved in his death, but an autopsy will be performed to determine how he died.

Tuesday, June 26, 2012

60 Year Old Oak Bay Man Reported Missing

Local Police and search and rescue volunteers are looking for a missing Oak Bay man.


60-year-old Jeffrey Albert Ingalls was last seen at his home on Route 760 on Friday, June 22nd, and was reported missing Monday, June 25th.

He is 5'11, with grey hair and a grey mustache.

Ingalls is known to wear a grey leather hat, a green khaki jacket, grey work pants, and glasses.

Police tell Tide News ground search and rescue workers are searching the area today.
Anyone with information of his whereabouts is asked to contact District 1 RCMP at 1-(506) 466-7030 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).




Monday, June 25, 2012

Show & Shine To Hit St. Stephen

It's time for the oldies, but goodies!


The New Brunswick Auto Club kicking off their two week provincial tour tomorrow, with 25-35 vintage vehicles in tow.

The Club, with up to 70 people onboard, will make stops including Fredericton, Campbellton, Woodstock, and St. Stephen.

The antique cars will take part in a Show & Shine on July 7th, in the Heritage Parking Lot in St. Stephen.

Sunday, June 24, 2012

Hygiene Council Warns Food Preparation

Preparing just one meal can contaminate 90% of surfaces touched. A new study warns people can become very sick from cross contamination of both raw meat and veggies. Dr. Donald Low of the Global Hygiene Council tells us that everything from the plate used for thawing meat to an ingredient you touched can become contaminated.

"Now your hands are contaminated, now your utensils are contaminated, cutting board is... and what we found from the study is that people inadvertently not realizing this or just having a lapse will take that dirty hand and pick something else up."

Dr. Low adds the solution is simple --- just remember to wash your hands before touching other surfaces like taps and utensils. When barbecuing your meat, cooking hotter and longer is better to kill bacteria.

City Looking At Losing A Big Percentage Of Its Workforce

Saint John wants to become the employer of choice as it faces the loss of almost one-quarter of its workers over the next five years through retirement. Common Council has been told 151 city workers could be retiring over the next five years. 

There has been talk some of those nearing retirement could be leaving early because they're uncertain over what's going to happen to the city's pension plan. Human Resources doesn't know how many of them will actually retire because many times they give very short notice.

The city is making do with 70 fewer workers than it had a decade ago and there is one major job vacancy at City Hall these days.......Commissioner of Water as a decision will have to be made on universal metering and efforts continuing at reaching a funding ageeement with the federal and provincial governments on advanced treatment of drinking water.

Arrests Made At Westfield Establishment

Several arrests made at a venue on Westfield road in Saint John West Saturday night after multiple complaints by neighbours. Saint John City Police tells us there were several violations under the liquor control act. One man is criminally charged with criminal disturbance by swearing. Another man facing charges for drinking and driving and failing a breathalyzer. The venue itself allegedly broke a noise by-law and liquor control act. Police could not confirm how many arrests were made. The incident is under investigation.

Quispam Mayor Says No Fracking

The town of Quispamsis doesn't have a problem with seismic testing for shale gas and that's not why it wants a ban, according to Mayor Murray Driscoll.


"It's when they come to fracturing to find shale gas. That's the difficulty and of in our town, we have 6,000 wells with 3 major ones to look after our water supply for the entire community."


Driscoll says the town opposes anything that would jeopardise the integrity of those wells. Driscoll tells us when they come up with a method for extracting the natural gas which doesn't pose a risk to drinking water from wells, the town will have another look.



Friday, June 22, 2012

St. Stephen Man Gets Highest Mark In Canada


Our former Chamber of Commerce President getting the highest mark in Canada in the STEP Canada Trust and Estate Planning Course.


Jason Rideout of St. Stephen receiving his diploma and TEP designation in April.

He recently received a plaque for his achievment of the top mark in the country.

The Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners has more than 16,500 members in 66 countries, and is the leading international organization for professionals working with trusts and estates.

In New Brunswick, Rideout is one of only 4 accountants with the TEP designation.

( Picture - from left - St. Stephen Mayor John Quartermain, Jason Ridout, and current Chamber of Commerce President Dale Weeks )

Construction On Marks Street Water Main Monday

Get ready for some detours, smack dab in the middle of town.


As part of the annual Streets Rehabilitation Program, St. Stephen will be renewing the water main on Marks Street, from Queen Street West to the Pool Road.

Work starting this Monday, June 25th, and lasting the duration of 2 weeks.

The road will be closed to through traffic between 7am and 4pm, and local access will be maintained during construction.

The Town apologizes for any inconvenience.

For more information call Director of Operations Lee Johnson at 466-7752.



Thursday, June 21, 2012

Police Say Arson Behind Old Town Tavern

The Old Town Tavern being the scene of arson over the weekend.


District 1 RCMP tell Tide News a car parked behind the St. Stephen bar was set on fire around 3am Sunday morning.

Police say the car had been parked there for a few weeks, and the blaze caused extensive damage.

Police are asking for your help if you know who is responsible.

If you have any information, please call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Crimestoppers will pay up to $2000 for information leading to an arrest.

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

'Tis The Season For Grads

The Class of 2012 being fairly well behaved.


District 1 RCMP say so far this graduation season, there have been no reports of incidents or tragedies in the St. Stephen area.

Sgt. Bob MacKnight tells Tide News that underage drinking is always a concern this time of year, but most important is safety and supervision, including safe transportation.

Police say most of the parties have been outside of town limits.

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Rally In The St. Croix Valley Is A Go!

The Town of St. Stephen saying 'Yes' to a Motorcyle Fest.


In the first scheduled meeting of the new Town Council, the Rally In The St. Croix Valley getting a nod of approval.

The Rally seeking permission to erect a stage for nightly entertainment on St. Stephen's waterfront, as well as set up a vendor village during the festivities.

The Rally In The St. Croix Valley will be running from Sunday, July 1st, to Sunday, July 8th.

Monday, June 18, 2012

Local Police Investigate Sudden Death

District 1 RCMP in St. Stephen are investigating a sudden death that happened in Bocabec last week.


Sgt. Bob McKnight confirms to Tide News that no foul play was involved, however, no other details are being released.

Blacks Harbour To Refrain From Washing Clothes

Today, Connors Bros will be completing their repairs to the water system in Blacks Harbour.


Officials tell Tide News, during the switch over, residents could get a disruption in their water service, or discolored water.

They are encouraging residents not to wash clothes today, and apologize for the inconvenience.

If you notice any issues with your water, you are asked to contact the Village of Blacks Harbour Office at 456-4870.

Sunday, June 17, 2012

400 Advance Votes In Rothesay

Rothesay will soon have a new face around the council horseshoe---Just over 400 votes were cast during the first day of advance voting in the Rothesay by-election. Reports from the local returning office indicate a steady stream of votes being cast at the Lady of Perpetual Help polling location. Advance polling continues on Monday. The election happens on June 25th.

Three Young Men Arrested For Drugs Near Q-Plex

Some young men getting arrested over the weekend for using drugs in the area of the Q-Plex. Police getting the call around 11pm that there were 3 young people hanging around using drugs. No word yet on what that drugs were or what, if any charges will be laid--although two 18 year old and 1 youth were busted.

Human Remains Found In Nash Creek

The RCMP in New Brunswick are investigating after human remains were found following a house fire in Nash Creek. Police responded to the fire at 52 Hickey Road around 11 p.m. on Friday. The house was completely engulfed in flames and it wasn't until the fire was extinguished that the remains were discovered. Police say an autopsy is scheduled for today to determine cause of death. They don't believe anyone else was in the home at the time. Police say the fire is not suspicious in nature and investigators are working to determine the cause of the blaze.

Saturday, June 16, 2012

Fire In Saint John's North End

Five apartment residents are back in their building after a fire occurring last night.

Saint John City Police tells CHSJ news they received the call to 228 Brittain Street 20 after 12.

Police are unsure what caused the blaze. There were no injuries.

The incident is under investigation.

Friday, June 15, 2012

Local MLA Pointing Finger At Alward For Allowing Coast Guard Cuts

A local MLA speaking out against Premier David Alward for not standing up to the Prime Minister on cutbacks to the Coast Guard.


MLA for Charlotte-The Isles Rick Doucet tells Tide News the closure of the marine and traffic services centre in Saint John will jeopardize safety in the Bay of Fundy.

Doucet says the Coast Guard Marine Centre in Saint John controlled all of the traffic in the Bay of Fundy. Now, he says, if a boat is in trouble, they will now be speaking with someone in Nova Scotia, compared to the people in Saint John who know every nook and crannie of the Bay of Fundy.

Rick Doucet says just like our blood supply leaving the province -- Nova Scotia will now be our only marine link as well.

Maine Toddler Missing For 6 Months

Tomorrow will mark 6 months since the disappearance of a blonde-haired, blue-eyed toddler.


20-month-old Ayla Reynolds was reported missing from her crib in Waterville, Maine, December 16th, 2011.

Waterville Police say Justin DiPietro -- Ayla's father -- sticks to the claim his daughter was abducted in the middle of the night, even after police confirmed they found a "significant amount" of Ayla's blood in DiPietro's basement.


Spokesman for the Maine Department of Public Safety, Steve McCausland says it is "highly unlikely" the toddler will be found alive, but investigators remain determined to solve her disappearance.

There is a $30,000 reward for information about Ayla's disappearance.

If you have any information, please contact Waterville Police at 1-207-680-4700.

Thursday, June 14, 2012

A Few Words With A Gold Medalist

In her first International Competition -- and being the youngest girl competing -- Allyssa Cleaves returns home to St. Stephen with a gold medal.


The 18-year-old St. Stephen High School student spent a week in Guatemala for the Junior Pan-American Wrestling Championship.

Cleaves tells Tide News she was in shock when she received gold. She says they went into the competition with hopes of a podium finish, but never expected to finish in first place.

She says she is very proud to bring a gold medal back to her hometown, especially after representing Team Canada. Cleaves says she has only been to competitions representing her school (SSHS) or New Brunswick.

Local Coach Pat Zwicker also attending the Championship as an Assistant Coach for Team Canada.



Knife-Wielding Suspect breaks Into St. George Home

It was a scary weekend for one St. George resident.


District 1 RCMP tell Tide News they are investigating an armed break and enter that happened on Main Street, in the wee hours of Sunday morning.

Police say a man wearing a balaclava entered the home with a knife, demanding items from the resident.

There was a struggle and the suspect left on an all-terrained vehicle.

The resident's hand was injured.

Officers with help from RCMP Police Dog Services searching the area, but were unable to find the suspect.

Anyone with knowledge of this crime is asked to contact Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or District 1 RCMP in St. George at 755-1130.

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

Multiple Property Damage on Campobello Island

Someone is vandalizing properties on Campobello Island.


RCMP tell Tide News, around June 9th, someone broke into a garage on Head Harbour Road, and damaged the grounds of the residence.

Police say this is the latest in a pattern of targeted damage to private and governmant property.

If you have any information about this crime, call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

SSHS Wrestler Coming Home With Gold

One of our local students is coming home with some bling!


St. Stephen High School wrestler Allyssa Cleaves -- along with local Coach Pat Zwicker -- recieving a gold medal at the Junior Pan-American Wrestling Championships.

They returned home to Canada this morning from Guatemala.

A celebration reception will be held tonight at SSHS, starting at 7pm.

Everyone is welcome.

Tuesday, June 12, 2012

ARTrageous Festival Kicks Off Thursday In St. Andrews


For the crafty, the collector, and the creative.


A brand new festival kicking off in St. Andrews this Thursday -- titled ARTrageous.

This year, the Canadian Sculpture Competition at Kingsbrae Gardens is taking a big step forward into a full-on festival.

Running from this Thursday, June 14th to Sunday, the 17th.

For a complete list of events, here is the link: http://www.artrageousnb.com/

Local Police Search For Mohannes B & E Culprit

Local police are searching for a break and enter culprit.


Crimestoppers and District 1 RCMP in St. Stephen asking for your help in finding who is responsible for a break and enter in Mohannes.

Between June 2nd and 9th, a garage was broken into with a number of items stolen, including 4 new Cooper tires, a chainsaw, a whipper snipper, and a car polisher.

Anyone with information about the crime is asked to contact Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Crimestoppers will pay up to $2000 for information leading to an arrest.

Monday, June 11, 2012

Relay Surpasses $ Goal

St. Stephen's 10th Annual Relay for Life surpassing its goal this weekend.


The Relay for Life Committee saying last week they hoped to raise enough funds to reach $50,000.

Committee member Ron Goodine tells Tide News $61,250 has been raised so far, with more donations expected in the coming days.

On Friday evening, cancer survivors, 29 participating Relay teams, and lots of spectators were behind St. Stephen High School for the 12 hour event.

The Relay had a great night, dispite having the entertainment being rained out in the early part of Saturday Morning.

West Isles Meeting Tonight in Deer Island

There will be a meeting tonight in Fairhaven, for the Local Service District of West Isles.


The purpose is to elect a new local service advisory committee.

The meeting gets underway at the Deer Island Community School, starting at 6:30.

For more information, call Environment and Local Government at 466-7370.

Sunday, June 10, 2012

Police Chief Weighs In On Operating Costs

As the Saint John Police Force prepares for a big change to its new HQ at Peel Plaza next month, Police Chief Bill Reid tells CHSJ news the force is doing well on the financial side of things. Reid tells CHSJ News according to April's reports the police is operating at $50,000 to $150,000 under budget.

 He says although things are looking great at the moment there are always unexpected factors at play with police work--and it's hard to predict what kind of numbers they could be facing down the line.

 Reid says the police force has been on budget for the past two years but that kind of track record does mean they have to do careful monitoring.

Van Hit By Bike

No serious injuries after a van getting struck by a motorcycle near Simms Corner. Sergeant Brian Wilson of the Saint John Police Force tells CHSJ News the van was hit by the bike at Bridge Road, which is near the infamous intersection. 

The driver of the motorcycle was taken to hospital by ambulance.

No word yet on the cause of the crash.

Car Break-In In Saint John

Keep your car locked and don't use it to store valuables--that from the Saint John police force in the light of a late-night car break in in the uptown area,

At around 12:30 last night police responding to a call that someone had their car window smashed on Canterbury Street and some personal items taken. Staff Sergeant Tanya Leblanc tells CHSJ News there are steps you can take to prevent thefts from your car, including hiding valuables under the seat or not leaving them in your car to begin with. 

Leblanc says people breaking into cars is a fairly regular occurrence in Saint John.

Saturday, June 9, 2012

Girl Reported Missing

A young girl from the Kennebecasis Valley remains among the missing missing.

 Rothesay Regional Police say Courtni Alisha Crawford has been among the missing since early on Wednesday night but is believed to be somewhere in Saint John. 

She's described as five feet three inches tall with dirty blonde hair, weighs 130 pounds and was wearing black jeans with a cream coloured hoodie.

 If you know where she can be found, you can give police a call at 847-6300.

Port Community Day Sunday In Saint John

It was a big hit last year and tomorrow will see the second annual Port Community Day at the Marco Polo Cruise Ship Terminal on Water Street from 11 in the morning until 3 in the afternoon with activities both inside and outside. 

Port President and C-E-O Jim Quinn tells CHSJ News there will be lots to do for the kids including rides the LAV, light armoured vehicle, which is part of the military equipment being brought from C-F-B Gagetown.

There will also be a barbeque with all the money raised from that earmarked for the Boys and Girls Club. Last year, 10 thousand dollars was raised for the Joshua Group. 

There are also tours of the port on board the pink double decker buses and Aquila Tours is providing a free shuttle from the Carleton Community Centre to the cruise terminal.

Friday, June 8, 2012

New Saint John Law Courts On Track For Fall Finish


It looks like the end of the year before the new justice complex on Peel Plaza in Saint John is fully operational.
A provincial spokesperson tells Tide News construction of the building is expected to be completed by October.
Once the building is handed over - the Justice Department expects it will take about two months to relocate courtrooms and offices now spread around the city to the new Saint John Law Courts complex.
Meantime - Saint John city police are expecting to move next month from city hall to the new police headquarters at Peel Plaza.

E-U-B Being Asked To Up Wholesale Profit Margins


The provincial Energy and Utilities Board is being asked for an increase in the wholesale profit margins on gas and home heating fuel.
Irving Oil has filed the request for an increase of just over a cent per litre saying a lot of costs have increased since the current margins of between 5 and 6-cents per litre were set.
The company has also requested documentation filed to justify its request be kept confidential to keep the information from falling into the hands of competitors.

10 Years Of Fighting Cancer

It's almost time to hit the track -- for the 10th time.


Tonight is St. Stephen's 10th Annual Relay For Life, raising money for the fight against cancer.

There will be a Survivor's Victory Lap, a Luminary Ceremony, and live music all night.

This year 29 teams will be taking part, and the public is invited to attend.

The Relay For Life will start with Opening Ceremonies, at 7 o'clock, behind the St. Stephen High School.

Thursday, June 7, 2012

Kids Back On Playground After Bear Sighting At SSES

With the recent bear sighting last week at the St. Stephen Elementary School -- the furry creatures seem to be popping up everywhere.
The kids were back outside this week, after the black bear was spotted on the playground last Monday.


Forest Resource Officer in St. George, Jack MacNeil tells Tide News there hasn't been any more sightings at the school. He says the students, principal, teachers, and many parents were worried about students going outside to play, so the Natural Resources Department asked to keep the children inside for the week, while traps were set to make sure the bear was moving out of the area.



MacNeil says it's normal this time of year to see lots of activity. Bears, coyotes, and foxes, during the spring, it's time for them to make their territory, and it is more common to see the animals out and about.

He adds, most of the calls haven't been about bears causing damage, just moving through people's yards, fields, or infront of businesses.

MacNeil says if you run into a bear, playing dead doesn't work. He says to speak in a loud voice, make yourself appear bigger by raising your arms, and back away slowly.
Do not climb a tree to escape because bears can climb trees, and in the rare case that a bear charges, MacNeil says it's usually a false charge, and if you are loud and appear bigger, they will usually turn tail and run away.

Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Meeting Tonight For Residents Of St. David

There will be a meeting tonight for residents of St. David.


The purpose is to elect a new local service advisory committee.

The meeting will be held at the Oak Bay Community Hall, starting at 6:30.

Fro more information , please contact the Environment and Local Government at 466-7370.

Boys & Girls Club Gets Big Help From Capitol One Race For Kids

The numbers have been tallied in the first-ever Capitol One Race For Kids.

Over the weekend, 12 communities across Canada -- including St. Stephen -- raising $1 million dollars for local Boys and Girls Clubs.

The national fundraiser allowing grown-ups to act like kids through checkpoint challenges, such as "walk on water balls" and carnival games using full-size slingshots.

Locally in St. Stephen, almost $23,000 was raised for the Boys and Girls Club of Charlotte County.

Flowers Stolen From St. Stephen Waterfront

It's a crime -- you could say -- is very dirty.


The organizer of "Tidy Up Our Town for Communities In Bloom" says some of the plants have been stolen.


Christine North tells Tide News two delphiniums (as seen in picture) and a chickweed messa plant were taken from the St. Stephen waterfront.

North says the plants were donated from members of the community, such as the Mayor, members from our local police department, and seniors.

She is asking whoever is responsible for the flower-nabbing, to bring the plants back.

People's Alliance Endorse Cardy In Rothesay


The People's Alliance Party is endorsing N-D-P Leader Dominic Cardy in the June 25th by-election in Rothesay.
Alliance Leader Kris Austin says his party had potential candidates lined up - but - felt it was best not to split the vote with the New Democrats and allow the Conservatives or Liberals to walk away with the seat.
Cardy was acclaimed by his party last night while the Liberals nominate their candidate tonight - and - the Conservatives already have named Ted Flemming as their candidate.
Nominations for the by-election to replace Conservative Margaret Ann Blaney close Friday afternoon at 2.

Province OK's Highway Of Heroes


The province is getting its own stretch of highway dedicated to our fallen armed forces personnel.
Tide News has confirmed Highway 2 will be dedicated the Highway of Heroes joining a number of other provinces with highways or sections of highways or streets with similar designations.
An official ceremony is being planned for some time late next month.

Monday, June 4, 2012

Province Plans To Overhaul Liquor Control Act


The provincial government is planning a complete overhaul of the Liquor Control Act.
The act covers all aspects of liquor control - sales - and - licensing in the province.
It's been in place since 1961 with a number of amendments over the years - but - there hasn't been a complete review in several years.
Part of the review will include a sit down with all those involved in sales and serving of liquor.
Four sessions are planned around the province with a stop here in the city next Tuesday - for more information - click here.

Port Eyes New Highway As Big Advantage


Renewed talk of a connector highway between Calais and Sherbrooke is capturing the attention of Saint John Port Authority boss Jim Quinn.
Quinn tells Tide News our port is positioned perfectly to take advantage of the proposed direct highway link - and - can also offer good rail connections through New Brunswick Southern Railway
He also says the proposed highway would be beneficial to tourism in the region.
Quinn recently travelled to Maine to meet with proponents of the new highway to discuss the advantages of having that kind of link with our port.