Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Funding for Harvey and McAdam

Updated Aug19/09

Residents of Harvey and McAdam are benefiting from joint federal and provincial funding to upgrade water and wastewater systems and restore village property. These projects will enhance local facilities and services and create local job. The Federal and Provincial will each invest a total of $294,000. These projects are among 32 across the province

Tropical-Weather

Updated Aug19/09

Forecasters are keeping an eye on Hurricane Bill. They say the storm is moving on a track that could take it close to Bermuda and Eastern Canada by the end of the week. Bill is the first hurricane of the Atlantic season.

(Canadain Press)

Baby in Truck

Updated Aug19/09


Community Services officials in Haliafx are investigating after a concerned citizen saw a seven-week old baby boy left inside a pickup truck in yesterday's sweltering heat. Apparently the mother, who was trying to get her four-year old into emergency dental surgery, didn't realize the baby was inside the vehicle. RCMP say the baby was in good condition after spending about 15 minutes inside the truck and was taken to hospital as a precaution.

Shooting Incident

Updated Aug19/09

St John Police have arrested two men in their 20's early this morning who are facing assault with a weapon charges. A 41 year old man was attacked with a shovel around three this morning while walking home with his 15 year old son. Police say the man was jumped by three men--two of which are in custody.
Meanwhile, Police in St John are looking for the man responsible for firing a shot gun in the uptown around one this morning. A witness says the man was firing into the air . Police found spent shotgun shells on the street but officers aren't sure what the man was shooting at.

NB-Herring-Disappear

Updated Aug/19/09


Apparently Herring have left the Bay of Fundy for deeper water. Scientists are trying to figure out why the fish have gone deeper into the ocean. The fish were abundant in May and June, but now Connor's Brothers sardine cannery in Blacks Harbour can't guarantee full shifts through the peak summer season, and the company can't plan production. The three purse seiners that deliver herring to the company are going 20 nautical miles south of Grand Manan, to the mouth of the bay, but are still having trouble finding the fish.

Funding for St Andrews

Updated July19/09

Great news for the Town of St Andrews. The town has received cash to make upgrades to it's waste-water treatment plant. The Federal and Provincial government contributed just over $976,000 each towards the total eligible cost of the project with the town contributing the balance. The plant, located on Prince of Wales Street, is over 25 years old with outdated equipment and reaching capacity.
Improvements will create a modern plant capable of meeting the Town’s current and future treatment needs. No word on what the total cost of the project is or when work will get started.

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Water Shut Off

The Town of St. Stephen would like to advise the residents of Pleasant Street between Milltown Blvd. and Riverside Drive that there will be no water starting at 10am today (Aug 18th).
This is due to the replacement of valves in that area. The water will be turned back on once the valves have been replaced. The Town of St. Stephen would like to apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.

Vandals Hit Church

Just a few months after the congregation of a New Brunswick church held opening ceremonies, vandals have attacked the Anglican house of worship, causing more than $10,000 in damage. The vandals threw rocks through five exterior windows and two interior stained glass windows at the Church of the Resurrection, which is home to members of the parish of the Nerepis and St. John.Police are looking for those responsible for the desecration of the church. Sgt. Gary Fournier, of Grand Bay-Westfield RCMP, said the first call of vandalism was made to police just after 10 a.m. on Friday, then two days later police were called back again to investigate damage that was more severe.

Monday, August 17, 2009

Break and Enter

Updated Aug17/09

A 21 yr old man from Grand Manan was arrested by Rcmp after a confession to a break and enter. Last Friday morning a business was broken into and $200 in cash was taken. The suspect was released on conditions and will appear in Grand Manan court in November. No money was recovered.

NB-Fatal-Crash

Updated Aug17/09

Police still aren't saying what caused a weekend accident that claimed the lives of three young Fredericton men. The victims have been identified as 19 yr old Joe Bourque, Matthew Swan, 20, and Jesse Schur 23. They died Saturday when the car they were in jumped the curb and plunged into the St. John River. A woman who was in the vehicle managed to escape and has since been released from hospital. The vehicle is undergoing a full mechanical inspection.

Jail Death

Updated Aug17/09


A 35 year old convict at the Correctional Centre in Saint John has died after falling from a window. Officials say Michael Saccary--who was serving nearly six years and four months for various crimes--died on Saturday. Police suspect he was trying to escape and foul play has been ruled out.
Correctional Service Canada will join the city police department in launching an investigation.

Tourism Numbers

Updated Aug 17/09


Despite the soggy weather so far this summer -- provincial tourism numbers are holding their own according to Tourism Minister Stuart Jamieson. He tells Tide News the tighter security rules at the border have produced a twist. He says numbers are up by 45-percent over last year in Campbellton thanks in large part to the Acadien Congress -- but -- he says the passport requirements at the U-S border have kept a lot of American visitors away.

Jamieson says numbers are down at some of the outdoor attractions but up in other areas like historic sites.

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Registration Reminders

The Oppositon Public Safety critic says New Brunswickers are paying double for registering their vehicles because often times they forget to renew it since the province stopped sending out reminders.Carl Urquhart tells CHSJ News, people will pay their bills if they come, but since they are creatures of habit will forget if not reminded.He says when the province decided to stop sending out reminders back in April it was to save money.
Urquhart says seniors are the ones most likely to forget their registration has expired, and if they are on a fixed budget cannot afford to pay a $180 dollar fine, and then the cost of registering their vehicle.

Regional Health Authority B

Stakeholders at Regional Health Authority B want to know where you think the organization should be heading in the future.The health authority is putting out the call to all community members, staff and physcians to participate in surveys, interviews and focus groups about it's strategic direction.The results of the information gathered is expected to be released by the late fall, outlining the future of the organization.

Anyone interested in participating in the RHA B strategic planning process can visit the RHA B website at www.rhab-rrsb.ca

Canada Games Stadium Funding?

We may soon be getting some positive word about federal and provincial funding for the upgrade of the Canada Games Stadium in Saint John. We asked Saint John M-P Rodney Weston if a deal is near -- and -- he remains optimistic we will be hearing in the not too distant future:\.
Premier Graham tells us his government is working its way through a long list of priorities.
The Stadium and track need a six million dollar make over -- proponents are hoping to have it finished before hosting the Acadien Games next summer.

Isotope Prices Go Up

The Department of Health is confirming the price of medical isotopes is rising.Minister of Health Mary Schryer tells us, the Regional Health Authoritys are mandated to deal with the supply, and she says they are doing a good job handling the cost increase.
Schryer says the higher rate went into effect on August the 1st.
The price increase comes as Ontario's Chalk River reactor has gone offline, causing health authorities to try and secure isotopes.

Friday, August 14, 2009

Athlete Funding

The Provincial government is giving more than 98 thousand dollars to 83 athletes in the province to compete at the provincial and national levels. The funding will help top amateur athletes make the senior or junior national team and will come from the New Brunswick Athlete Assistance Program.Athletes must be competing in a recognized sport in a major event such as the Olympics, Paralympics or Canada Games. The grants range from $500 to $3,000.

Hit By Lightning update

A three-year-old boy hit by lightning in a Brampton, Ont., park continues to improve in hospital.The unnamed boy, five-year-old Kyus Caines and Kyus' 26-year-old mother Dulce Caines were struck Wednesday afternoon as they were leaving the park.Oral Caines says his son Kyus, who is in critical condition in hospital, bore the brunt of the lightning strike, while the other two were hit more indirectly.Kyus' grandmother told the Toronto Star the little boy was carrying a metal scooter over his shoulder at the time.A spokeswoman for the Hospital for Sick Children says the three-year-old boy's condition has been upgraded from serious to good.

Thursday, August 13, 2009

St. Stephen RCMP request assistance

The St Stephen RCMP is requesting the assistance of the public in identifying the person(s) responsible for damage that was committed to Milltown Pool, during the evening or early morning hours of July 31st and August 1st. During this time, culprit(s) managed to gain access to the fenced in portion, which surrounds the pool and intentionally cut out a portion of the pool liner. Anyone having knowledge of this matter or the person(s) is requested to contact the RCMP(466-7030) or Crime Stoppers 1 800 222-8477. Persons providing information leading to the arrest of the person(s) responsible do not have to reveal their identify and may be eligible for a cash award.

Hampton Murder Update

The 15 year old girl charged with first degree murder in the death of an elderly New Brunswick man is going to be facing a judge and jury on January 12th. She had previously elected trial by judge alone, but will be facing the jury as well.78-year-old Frank Tonge of Damascus died in his home from a single stab wound to his upper body. A pre trial will be taking place on October 9th, and the January trial is expecting to last 9 days.

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Big Valley Jamboree

If it hadn't been for his bass guitar, there's a chance the injuries Billy Currington's bass player suffered in that stage collapse at the Big Valley Jamboree in Camrose, Alberta could have been worse. As it is, Alex Stevens had to have surgery on his left arm for a severed artery and nerves. Stevens tells the Edmonton Journal he had put his bass guitar on his back and it protected him. He says he's convinced that if he hadn't been wearing his bass, his pelvis or back would have been crushed.One person died and 75 others were injured on August 1st when a powerful wind roared through the popular country music festival with no warning, causing the main stage to crumble.

Binge Drinking

A new study suggests the effects of binge drinking may go beyond that next-day hangover.
It could also affect how your brain and memory work.
Researchers found healthy, young university students who engaged in heavy drinking required more attention to complete a given task.
They also say the adolescent brain is more sensitive to the effects.

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Thompson's Spending Spree

Brian Murphy, MP for Moncton-Riverview-Dieppe is criticizing MP Greg Thompson for the ministers recent office move from Mocton to Fredericton which cost $700,000.
Murphy finds the decision highly irresponsible for Thompson to spend that much taxpayer's dollars in the middle of an economic crisis. Brian Murphy says it's unbelievable to see the conservatives throwing money our the window when the number of unemployed Canadians keeps rising.

St. Stephen Vandalism / Stolen Van

St. Stephen RCMP are investigating a quite a bit of vandalism and a stolen vehicle in the
St. Stephen Area. On Friday, police received a complaint of property damage on the McKnight Road where road side mail boxes and solar lights were damaged. Also a complaint of a vehicle being operated carelessly on Princess Street in St. Stephen. The vehicle was described as a black minivan and was responsible for colliding with mail box and traffic signs and striking a shopping cart which was then pushed though a local business window.
Even more vandalism was reported at the Dover Hill Park where extensive damage was done to tree limbs and the flower beds.
The same vehicle was reported stolen from a residence on the valley road and was later found destroyed by fire. RCMP believe all these incidents are connected.
Persons having witnessed any of this activity or knowing of the identities of the occupants of the vehicle are requested to contact the St. Stephen RCMP or Crime Stoppers.

Monday, August 10, 2009

Mourners have filled a church in Sydney, Nova Scotia, for the funeral of Donald Marshall.The native rights activist is being remembered as a reluctant hero who helped change Nova Scotia's justice system as a result of his wrongful murder conviction.Tributes were also paid to his role in a landmark Supreme Court of Canada case that granted limited fishing rights to aboriginals.

______________________________________________________________
Canada's military will begin taking delivery of new Chinook helicopters between 2013 and 2014.Defence Minister Peter MacKay made the announcement this morning in Halifax after awarding a 1.2 (b) billion dollar contract to acquire 15 Chinook helicopters.U-S aircraft giant Boeing will build the CH-147 Chinooks, a model of helicopter that the military says will allow it to reach remote regions.

_____________________________________________________________
The town of Gander in Newfoundland will be getting some international attention at the time of the 2010 Vancouver Olympics.An N-B-C television crew has been in the town, doing a profile on the Gander area's contributions in the days after the 9/11 terrorist attacks.Residents welcomed hundreds of airline passengers from overseas flights that were forced to set down when U-S airspace was closed.Mayor Claude Elliot says the town will see up to 30 minutes of prime time before the closing ceremonies.
___________________________________________________________
A Nova Scotia man is dead after crashing his motorcycle in Waverley Sunday in one of several road-related accidents around the province.The 48-year-old man, from Lawrencetown, N.S., and a 46-year-old woman, who also crashed the motorcycle she was driving in the same direction, were rushed to hospital where the man died a short time later.RCMP Staff Sgt. Scott Warnica says the woman is in serious condition.In another crash, a woman was trapped inside her Chevrolet after rolling it near Mount Uniacke on Highway 101.Police say firefighters freed her from her smashed vehicle.And officials say another woman who crashed her motorcycle in the Kentville area was airlifted to a Halifax hospital, where she is listed in serious condition.

Sunday, August 9, 2009

Man Biking into Saint John

One man will bike his way through Saint John Tuesday as part of a bicycle campaign to raise awareness about Mental Health. Mel Thompson has biked all the way from Vancouver after learning that his daughter Lindsay was diagnosed with Schizophrenia. Anita Connolly with the Canadian Mental Health Association tells us Thompson will be presented with a cheque for 16 thousand dollars.Thompson is hoping to educate people about mental health and raise money to improve treatment as he bikes all the way to St. John's, Newfoundland.

H1N1 Flu Measurements

Local emergency management organizations are making plans to deal with any major outbreak of the H-1-N-1 flu this fall. Brian Shanks of the Ken Valley E-M-O group tells us they're planning a series of public information sessions to talk about things like the impact of the flu on home life. Shanks says more details will be available within a couple of weeks regarding the information sessions. Public health officials predict absenteeism rates could hit as high as 25-percent if the so called "swine flu" pandemic outbreak gains a foothold in the province this fall and winter.

Friday, August 7, 2009

Van Burnt Last Night

Add another burnt vehicle to the list in St. Stephen.
A tip to our newsroom tells us several stop signs were damaged, and a van was set on fire.RCMP confirm a van was burned, and an investigation is underway.
No word on if there is any connection to the 13 cars destroyed at a garage early last month.

Update on Dog Charges

Updated July7/09



No new court date has been set for two men facing animal cruelty charges. R-C-M-P say the St. Stephen area men are facing the charges after a large dog died when it was left in a parked vehicle overnight.Police say the driver and a friend crossed over to the U-S and when they returned -- the dog had died from excessive heat and lack of food and water.
The two were scheduled to appear in St. Stephen court last Tuesday but RCMP did not receive a report which was needed the day before. The file still needs to be reviewed and approved by the Crown Prosecutor before charges can be laid in provincial court.

Stop Signs Destroyed in St Stephen


[Stop sign turned over on the cornor of Princess Street and Queen Street East-----Photo submitted by listener]

St Stephen RCMP are investigating what you call a lot of Vandalism in the area last night. A caller to our news line tells tide news around 5:45am along princess and Queen street East there were about 15 stops signs destroyed. Tide news has place a call to the RCMP but waiting to hear back.

Maple Leaf Recall

Updated Aug7/09

Certain brands of Maple Leaf, Shopsy's and Hydrade wieners may contain the listeria bacteria. The provincial Department of Health is advising people to check their fridges and freezers and dispose of any affected products.
So far there have been no reported cases in the province, and the Health Department will continue to monitor the situation.

For a complete list click here: www.foodinspectionagency.ca ...

Thursday, August 6, 2009

Algal Bloom Alert

Updated Aug6/09

The Health Department is warning Charlotte County residents who like to take a dip in the lake or other recreational bodies of water to be aware of the potential health risks posed by algal blooms. An algal bloom should be avoided if it appears to have a thick, blue-green or green, paint-like scum. When present in the water, these blooms may cause skin, eye or throat irritation.

Milltown Pool Vandalized

Updated Aug6/09


While kids are enjoying swimming in the pool some are out to destroy it. Someone has damage the Milltown Pool cutting a piece out of the liner. Assistant Director for Recreational and Parks Leah Nixon tells tide news someone crawled under the fence and sliced a rectangle piece out the liner of the pool right along the water line. Nixon says the cost of damage is not none at this time. She says they will have to wait until next summer to see how much water, if any went inside the liner. She says after the winter months that's when they will see if there is more damage to the pool. The pool is repaired.

Energy Demand

Updated Aug6/09

Energy Minister Jack Keir says even though a lot of future energy generated in the province will be sold to the United States, we will feel the benefits at home.

Keir says people living near the nuclear generating station are hopeful plans for a second reactor at Point Lepreau will become a reality. Keir says the province has a strong advantage being next to one of the largest energy demand markets in North America---the New England States.

AC/DC-Concert

Updated Aug6/09

Up to 80-thousand people are expected for the AC/DC concert at Magnetic Hill site tonight. Organizers say it will be the largest show on the Australian band's North American tour. Regional Health Authority B will have an emergency medical building and two secondary tents around Magnetic Hill. There will also be paramedics patrolling the grounds looking for injuries or illness and an ambulance fleet will be available if needed.

Teenager Hit by Train

Updated Aug6/09

A 15 year old teenager was struck by a train on the Main Street overpass in Moncton earlier this morning . A group of teenagers were near the tracks when the collision occurred. The victim was taken to hospital with serious injuries.

Gas Prices

Updated Aug6/09

The Energy and Utilities Board has set the maximum price schedule for the province this week and the total maximum price for regular self-serve gasoline is a dollar-two. Yesterday is was 99.1 cents a litre. Most station in St Stephen are showing a pump price 99.9.
Diesel fuel is about the same at 98.8 cents a litre and propane hasn't moved an inch still coming in at 93.2 cents.

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

Fredericton resident competing in i Factor finale

Upated July 5/09

A 25 year old women now a Fredericton resident is one of the top ten finalist in i Factor. Becka DeHaan born in St Stephen will travel to Ontario this week to compete in the i factor, a musical competition in search of Canada's favourite musician with vision loss. DeHaan will compete against nine other Canadians in three rounds of live performances. She began playing piano at age 5 and started singing at 14. The competition is Aug 8 at CNIB Lake Joseph Centre.

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

Mayor Apologizes Over Milltown Bridge Comments

St. Stephen mayor Jed Purcell has faced a fire storm lately with his comments relating to his lack of objection to any future closing of the Milltown Bridge. Purcell made a comment to a reporter regarding the possible closure of Milltown Bridge. In a press release the mayor says it is clear that the statement he made was a personal opinion and in no way reflective of the wishes of the St Stephen town Council. He say he now realizes such a closure would cost the two communities over thirty much needed job and deprive the local economy.

Minimum Wage To Increase Next Month

Minimum wage in the province is getting it's second increase this year starting Septemeber 1st.Back in April an extra quarter was added taking it to an even 8 dollars, and at the start of next month it will increase another quarter.At the $8.25 wage people working 40 hours a week are expected to earn $330 dollars a week, up from $268 at the $7.75 rate.

Bridge Repair Work Postponed

The Deparment of Transportation has postponed the repairs that were going to be carried out to the Magaguadavic River # 2 Upper Bridge in St. George.Spokeperson for the Department Andrew Holland tells tide news repairs will take place but at a later date.
Holland says with blueberry season in full bloom it was the best decision for blueberry business. The bridge was supposed to have been reduced to one lane starting last Wednesday but has been postponed the until further notice.

St. Stephen Resident Receives Order of New Brunswick

Shirley Downey of St. Stephen was one the 10 latest recipients of the Order of New Brunswick.The Order of New Brunswick was established in 2000 to recognize New Brunswickers who have demonstrated excellence and achievement and who have made an outstanding contribution to the social, cultural, or economic well-being of the province.The premier Shawn Graham revealed the recipients' names during the official New Brunswick Day celebration held in McAdam.

Monday, August 3, 2009

Provincial Parks Free Today

Looking for something to do today? Admission to all provincially operated parks are free to celebrate New Brunswick Day.Tourism Minister Stuart Jamieson says this is an opportunity for residents to take in the scenery and recreational activities the parks have to offer.The Department of Tourism and Parks operate 9 provincial parks including New River Beach, and Mount Carleton.

The Masks Could Be Doing More Harm Than Good

You may have seen pictures of people wearing surgical masks in areas where there have been severe cases of the so called "swine flu" -- but -- our deputy chief medical health officer - Dr Paul Van Buynder - says people using masks when they don't need to can actually infect the masks and transmit the virus when normally they may not have.Van Buynder says public health strongly believes people ill with the flu should not go to work and should stay home in isolation to help prevent the spread of the virus.

Saturday, August 1, 2009

RCMP Spot Checks

Another Long Weekend is upon us and that means RCMP are beefing up patrols. Officers will keep an eye out for all violations but in particular drinking and driving and getting behind the wheel if you are high. Staff Sgt. Stephane Caron admits to us, it can be tougher to find those who have been smoking a joint or taking some pills compared to those who have had to many drinks,
So far this year, 20% of serious collisions RCMP have responded to have involved an impaired driver.

New License Plates

The provincial government has rolled out a series of new license plates yesterday, including one with the slogan "Be...in this place". Business New Brunswick Minister Victor Boudreau says the new slogan seeks to inspire New Brunswickers to recognize and pursue the natural advantages of this province.
The newly designed plates will be available on August 4th for $25. New conservation plates with three new designs will be available for $32. Also new, owners of seasonal or antique vehicles will now have a single licence plate for their vehicles. Getting a new license plate is optional.

Casino Construction Update

Construction of the province's first casino near Magnetic Hill in Moncton is on target. President of Suncor Gaming New Brunswick, Mike Novac, tells us they are still slated for completion by next spring.
Novac says at this point they are in range of their projected budget of 89 million dollars. He also says the project will create a boon for the city when they hire four hundred more workers in the next few weeks.

Swine Flu Vaccine On It's Way

New Brunswickers will be receiving at least one dose of the anti-H-1-N-1 vaccine when it becomes available later this year. Deputy chief medical health officer Dr Paul Van Buynder says the vaccination program will begin with at risk groups like those under 20 or those with chronic diseases.
Van Buynder says most people will receive two doses of the vaccine -- but -- seniors may only receive one shot because studies have shown they have built up a natural immunity to the virus -- the shots will be given free of charge.

Friday, July 31, 2009

Calais CelebratesThere 200th Birthday

Updated July31/09


Calais Maine is celebrating there 200th birthday today. Mayor Vinton Cassidy tells tide news there will plenty to celebrate on both sides of the border:

Cassidy says the Mayor from St John and the Mayor from St Stephen will be in Calais to celebrate this day. Back in 1909 the city of Calais was officially named.

New Fisheries Service Centre Now Open

Updated July31/09

The Fisheries Service Centre on Campobello Island is now open.The announcement was made yesterday by The Federal Minister of Fisheries and Oceans Gail shea . The project is part of an overall DFO accommodation strategy for Southwest New Brunswick that has already seen new offices built over the last three years in Grand Manan Island and St. George.The new building was built by a Campobello Island contractor using local materials and suppliers.

Kier on Tidal Power

Updated July31/09

Energy Minister Jack Kier says without a doubt, they will harness the tidal energy of the Bay of Fundy. Kier tells Tide News, it's just a matter of time before Irving Oil and the Huntsman Marine Science Centre determine what type of equipment will be needed to survive the high tides of the Bay.

Kier says the Bay of Fundy is a pretty rough environment but private investors will eventually make a break through.

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Lotto Deadline

Updated July29/09


The second prize for a record-breaking 6-49 jackpot is still going unclaimed in the province.The Atlantic Lottery Corporation says the second prize winning ticket was sold in Westmorland County last summer and is worth 220 thousand dollars.
The ticket was sold for the August 8th 6-49 draw worth 43 million dollars. The top prize was split two ways in Ontario and Quebec. The deadline to claim the second prize is next Saturday.

Lepreau Delays

Updated July29/09

The provincial Opposition Leader is voicing continued concerns over the mounting costs of the Point Lepreau refurbishment. The 1.4 billion dollar project is now at least 150 million dollars over budget--and--that extra cost was for a five month timeline extention. The project is now seven months behind schedule and expected to be finished early next year.
David Alward says a non-partisan committee should be set up to oversee the work and promote trans-parency and account-ability.

Price of Gas Continues to Climb

Updated July30/09

The Energy and Utilities Board has released it's weekly price schedule which shows the maximum retail for a litre of gasoline is 96.2 which is up just over two cents from seven days ago. Most stations in St Stephen are advertising gas for 97.0 even today.
Diesel is up almost three cents coming in 95.4, furnace oil takes a jump of almost four cents to 77.1 and propane is only up percentage points at 81.8.

Oak Bay Camp Ground Now Open

Updated July30/09

Heading into the long weekend campers will be happy to hear the closed sign is officially down at the Oak Bay camp ground. The new Camp Ground Manager Joe Moffit tells tide news he can't say enough on how much this means to him to finally open for the season.He says alot of hard work and long hours but finally the camp ground is ready for business.

Moffit says there is roughly 80 sites that are now available. He says there is still some work that has to be completed but the majority is done. To open the camp ground was roughly $25,000.00 dollars to upgrade the premise. The tender is a ten year contract.

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Point Lepreau

Updated July29/09

Opposition Leader David Alward is concerned about the delays in the Point Lepreau refurbishment, and its potential cost to New Brunswick ratepayers.
The project was originally pegged at a cost of $1.4 billion, however, the continuous delays are costing New Brunswickers more and more each day. The extra cost was originally estimated to be over $150 million when the project was only five and a half months behind schedule. It is now seven months behind schedule, and said to be completed in early 2010.

Celebration in Harvey

updated July29/09

Final preparations are underway for the Don Messer Centennial Celebration in Harvey Station. The events takes place in an 800-seat tent beside the rec centre, just up the hill from Harvey's famous giant fiddle. Messer, who was born and raised in nearby Tweedside, was one of Canada's most beloved entertainers. He will be celebrated with concerts, musical jams, an outdoor inter-faith church service and much more. This take place through august 1st to the 8th.

Moosehead Has a Hit

Updated July29/09

It appears Moosehead Breweries has a hit on it's hands. Moosehead Light Lime is the companies most successful launch of a brand in the past 25 years with 1.2 million bottles sold since June.27th. It was only available here and over on the Island for the first month but cases are being delivered to Nova Scotia this week.
President Andrew Oland says the product has exceeded their expectations and they are thrilled with the response. Production at the brewery has had to increase to meet the demand which means extra shifts for staff. Light Lime is the breweries second new product this year.......Cracked Canoe hit NB Liquor store shelves back in the spring.

Milk Cartons Can be Recycled

Update July29/09


Beginning next month, you will be able to recycle all your milk cartons. Public Education Officer with the Fundy Region Solid Waste Commission Brenda MacCallum tells Tide News, you could always recycle the plastic jugs and the bags.
This new set up is conjunction with the Waste Commissions new five to three bin sorting facility. This means their fleet of trucks will be able to pick up more material at one stop. Things get started the first two weeks of next month.

Construction in St. George

Update July29/09

Construction will start today in St George.Motorists are advised that the Magaguadavic River # 2 Upper Bridge located on Main Street will be reduced to one lane . Transportation Minister Denis Landry says the construction in the amount of $80,000 dollars is expected to last four weeks, weather permitting. Traffic lights will be in place to assist the flow of traffic. Keep in mind Fines have doubled if you are caught speeding in construction zones.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Man Dies of His Injuries

Update July28/09

A second person had died as the result of a crash in McAdam last week. On July 23, a head on collision between two vehicles claimed the life of Tabitha Kitchen of McAdam. Three young children in Kitchen’s vehicle were taken to hospital to be treated for non-life threatening injuries.
The driver of the second vehicle, 75 year old Blake Maclean of Harvey, NB succumbed to his injuries on Sunday at the Saint John Regional Hospital.

Refinery Decision Reax

Updated July 28/09

A prominent economist with the University of Alberta says now is not the time to add capacity to refining operations and Irving Oil made the right decision to halt plans for its proposed second refinery. Andre Plourde tells our news department , more people are buying smaller, fuel efficient and hybrid vehicles but that doesn't mean a second refinery won't be a good idea in the future.


Plourde says in the long term there will be a return in increased demand as the economy rebounds from the recession.

UPDATE ON LEPREAU UPGRADE

update July28/09

The refurbishment at Point Lepreau has reached an important milestone, but the project is now seven months behind schedule. NB Power spokeswoman Heather MacLean says crews have completed the removal of 380 tubes from the heart of the reactor which completes the reactor disassembly.
It is the first time a Candu-6 reactor has been refurbished and MacLean says the use of specialized tools for the job took longer than expected. The project was originally expected to cost $1.4 billion and would have seen the reactor back online in September but it will now be next year.

Friday, July 24, 2009

Wet and Wild Weather for the Weekend

Update July24/09

Environment Canada has posted a warning for some wild weather this weekend. They are tracking a system developing over the Atlantic south of New York. It will lie over Maine today and expected to make the shift into our area today and tonight.
Rain at times is expected to be heavy and howling winds approaching gale force near the coast. Forecaster's tell us with this kind of combination, there could be flooding in some low lying area's. The full forecast is coming up shortly.

Fatal Crash

Updated July24/09

A woman is dead and four other people are hurt following a two-vehicle accident between Harvey and McAdam yesterday. RCMP Sgt. Claude Tremblay says a pickup truck and a van collided around noon on Route 4 near Christie's Ridge. He says the woman driving the van was killed, while three young children in the vehicle and the man driving the truck were taken to hospital in Fredericton.
Tremblay says some of the injuries are serious.

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Grand Manan Ferry Down

updated July23/09 5:54am

Those who use the Grand Manan Five Ferry on a daily basis have had their schedule interrupted this week. The vessel has broken down twice and remains dry-docked until a replacement part arrives from Europe. Coastal Transport spokes-person Murray Ryder tells Tide News, the first break down happened on Sunday and then the final blow on Monday
Ryder says the parts should be here today. If everything stays on schedule, the 55-vehicle vessel should be back cutting through the water Tomorrow Morning.

Minister Goes Above and Beyond

Updated July23/09 5:52am

Fisheries Minister Rick Doucette has been taking on some new responsibilites the past few days with the ferry down. He tells Tide News, to accomodate some of the people caught in the long line-ups, he has been using his own vehicle as a shuttle service:

Doucette says you never know what you will be doing from day to day in Provincial politics and this is a new chapter for the book.

Gas Prices Are Up

Updated July 23/09 5:51am

After a month of steady decline, gas prices are back on the upward swing. The Energy and Utilities Board has released it's weekly price schedule which shows the maximum price for a litre of self-serve going for 93.4 which is up just under two cents from a week ago.
Disel is up almost two cents at well with a maximum price tag of 92.5, furnace oil is up almost three cents at 73.8 and propane comes in at 81.5 which is actually down almost two cents.

Tour of Maritime Continues

Update July23/09 5:50

St. Stephen and Saint John are on the agenda today for the Standing Senate Committee on National Security and Defence. Chair Senator Colin Kenny and several of his colleaugues including Senator Joseph Day have been visiting Maritime border crossings and points of entry this week. This morning at 11am.....the senator's will be at the Marco Polo Cruise terminal. CBSA officers will brief and answer questions on port operations and the use of detection equipment.
This afternoon at 1:30pm, CBSA will provide a tour of the new land border crossing in St. Stephen while briefing and answering questions from Senators on border crossing operations.

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

LATEST ON MAINE LNG PROJECT

Updated July 21/09

The Canadian ambassador to the United States Michael Wilson has told U-S regulators that Canada won't let ships have access to a liquefied natural gas terminal on Passamaquoddy Bay. Downeast L-N-G is building the plant in Robbinston, Maine. However, for ships to get there, they'll need to sail through Head Harbour Passage between Campobello and Deer Island's _ waters which Canada controls. Wilson says Canada maintains the right to control and regulate their use. Canada's opposition to the project is based on concerns about safety and the damage massive L-N-G tankers might cause to the local environment.
However Dean Girdis, president of Downeast L-N-G, says he's aware of the Canadian government's position but the project will go ahead regardless. He says they have legal analysis that says U-S ships have a right of passage. He also suggests Ottawa and the Province are working to protect Canadian interests.

Travelling the skies with Saint John Airport

Updated July21/09

With most people in St. Stephen using the Bangor Airport to fly the friendly skies, the Saint John Airport wants to see how it can keep them in this country. Chair of the Airport Board of Directors Paul Doiron tells Tide news this Wednesday there will be an open house to share what is available for Charlotte county residents .

Doiron says it is important that they share what the airport offers to residents here in the border town. The open house is this Wednesday at the Milltown Legion starting at 2:00 until 5:00.

Teaching Conference

Updated July21/09


Seventy teachers are attending a conference to discuss how to best teach high school students. The conference is a part of the 21st Century Learning Initiative which began in six provincial english high schools.
Sir James Dunn Academy, in St. Andrews, will join the project where students take on projects that challenge them with real world issues requiring hands on use of math, science and literacy skills.

Seadogs Gearing Up For Season Five

Update July21/09


With training camp just weeks away, preperations continue in the front office of the Saint John Seadogs for season five. President Wayne Long tells Tide News, they would like to have 2300 tickets in the vault by the time the season opens:

Long admits alot of people may still be on the fence about the team with so many new faces but is confident, fans will like the product on the ice.

New License Plates Are Coming

Updated July 21/09


A newly designed provincial licence plate will be unveiled on New Brunswick Day. Conservation plates with three new designs will be available for $32 and regular plates with the new design will be $25.
Also new, owners of seasonal or antique vehicles will now have a single licence plate for their vehicles. The new plates will be available starting on the 4th of next month but getting one is optional.

Monday, July 20, 2009

Man Jumps To His Death

Updated July20/09* 6:22

The Major Crime unit is still trying to piece together what caused a 44-year old man to leap off an over-pass on the weeked and fall to his death. On Friday night, there was a two vehicle crash around 9:30pm at the Grand Bay Westfield Exit in St John.
Police say the dead man was the driver of a vehicle heading north that left the road after it collided with a second vehicle, with four people in it. Officers say the man got out of his vehicle, ran past the other one and jumped over a guardrail.

NB Power Power Bills

Updated July20/09 6:21

A reminder going out this morning just incase you have not heard the news.You can no longer pay your NB Power bill at their office at 83 Queen Street West. Utility Spokes-person Heather McLean tells Tide News, the are many other ways to pay power bills and it shows.

McLean says this new rule took effect at the start of the last month but staff is still working at the office if you have any questions or concerns.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Gas Prices

updated July16/09

If your heading out of town this weekend you will be happy to hear this. The Energy and Utilities Board has released it's weekly price schedule and the maximum retail price for a litre of self-serve is 91.7. That is down almost a nickel from last week with most stations in St Stephen showing a posted pump price of 92.5.
Diesel is down almost four cents at 90.1 and furnace oil takes a nice hit as well dropping to 70.9. Propane is down almost four cents at 82.9.

Two Vehicles Hit Head On

Update July16/09

A two vehicle accident cause major damage to both vehicles but both drivers walk away with only minor injuries. Calais police tell us Kyamarie Brown 19 of Baileyville was driving a black 1997 jeep and struck a tractor trailer head on driven by Roger Trafton 24 of St David Ridge on Baring Street in Calais. The accident happened around 5:15 yesterday afternoon.The damage to both vehicles is estimated to be $15,000.00.

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

More money

Updated July15/09

More great news announced by the Provincial Government. The Government is investing $1.65 million in rural road infrastructure for chipsealing in Charlotte, St. John and Kings counties. This contract, awarded to Northern Construction Inc. includes 6.9 km on Deer Island, eight km in the St. George, Pennfield, Blacks Harbour areas and 26 km around St. Stephen.

The department is investing more than $1.5 million in ferry upgrades and refits along with improvements to wharfs and landings for the Grand Manan, Lady White Head, John E. Rigby and Deer Island Princess II vessels.

Acadia Grows

Updated July15/09

Great news today. A Saint John based broadcasting company is expanding its reach in Northwestern Ontario -- Acadia Broadcasting which is the parent company of this radio station is purchasing two FM stations in Thunder Bay from Newcap Inc. The stations will join Acadia's stations in Dryden - Kenora - and - Fort Frances under its subsidiary company Northwoods Broadcasting Limited. The 4.5-million dollar deal is subject to approval by the Canadian Radio -Television and Telecommunications Commission. Acadia also owns and operates stations in St Stephen and Bridgewater.

King Street Construction

Update July 15/09


The bulk of the work for king street is complete. Director of operation Lee Johnson tells us the seal should be finished by the end of the day. Johnson says there will still be some odd and ends to clean up but the majority of construction will be finished today.

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

More than $7.5 million for Charlotte County roads

Update July 14/ 09
12:45

The provincial government is investing more than $7.5 million to improve transportation infrastructure in Charlotte County. The investments were highlighted today by Transportation Minister Denis Landry and Fisheries Minister Rick Doucet. The Town of St. Stephen will receive $1.25 million over a five-year agreement to reconstruct King Street. The Town of St. George is receiving $150,000 for work on Route 172 (Fundy Bay Drive from Mount Pleasant Road to Mascarene Road). The Village of Blacks Harbour is receiving $95,000 for storm sewer upgrades on Route 176.

Car hits utility pole

Update July 14/09

A man is lucky to be alive after hitting a utility pole yesterday afternoon. A man from the McAdam area was travelling north on highway 3 when he went off the road hitting a pole and landing on top of the wires. Rcmp says the man was reaching down to adjust his stereo when he went off the road. NB Power and Fire officials were on the scene to assist with the accident. The man was sent to hosiptal but later released with minor injuries.

Construction Announcement

Updated July 14/09

There will be an announcement today from Transportation Minister Denis Landry and Fisheries Minister Rick Doucet on the construction activity and infrastructure upgrades in Charlotte County. This will take place at the construction site just west of the Blacks Harbour exit (Route 785) along Route 1.The announcement will be made at noon time.

Monday, July 13, 2009

Missing Person in Musquash

Updated July13/09

The Musquash Fire Department, River-Valley Ground Search and Rescue along with RCMP are combing an area near Musquash. This after the call went out about a missing person last night. No word on how old or whether it is a boy or girl they are looking for.
We have placed a call to RCMP for more details and are still waiting to hear back.

Structure fire

Updated July13/09


Nobody hurt after a house went up in flames yesterday in Upper Mills. St Stephen fire department along with Oak bay and Calais were on the scene for roughly two hours. St Stephen Fire Chief Jeff Richardson tells Tide news the fire started around 3:50 in the afternoon at 1549, 12 smith Rd in Upper Mills. The fire remains under investigation but we do know this is not connected with the rash of arsons that took place 2 weeks ago in the St Stephen area. The house was vacant.

New River Station Bridge

Updated July13/09

The Department of Transportation is closing the New River Station Bridge #2 in the Lepreau area starting tomorrow. The 31 year old structure is getting some repairs.
The bridge is between Lepreau and Lake Utopia on what's commonly reffered to as the Old Saint John Highway. Work is expected to take about 2 weeks.

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Bay Of Fundy Moves On

The Bay of Fundy has cracked the top 77 in the global New 7 Wonders of Nature contest.The second phase of voting ended earlier this week narrowing down the original 440 locations down to 77. The next stage of the contest will have the New7Wonders independent panel of experts selecting 28 final candidate to be announced on July 21st.The Bay of Fundy is the only Canadian site to make it into the top 77.

Fundy Bay Keeper Concerned Over Bridge Repair

Repair work on the Mispec River Bridge is causing concern for the Conservation Council. It has reported to the Coast Guard and Environment Department that work crews on the bridge are sweeping concrete and old paint into the mouth of the river. Spokes-person Dave Thompson tells us, has hasn't been to the site but has received plenty of calls.

The endangered species Thompson is speaking of is one of the inner Bay of Fundy salmon populations. Thompson hopes if there is some wrong-doing, action will be taken before work on the bridge resumes on Monday.

Saturday, July 11, 2009

Local Take on General Motors Bankruptcy

A business professor at the University of New Brunswick says the General Motors soap opera is about to begin.Barry Boothman tells us, GM has been able to emerge from bankruptcy protection much faster than anticipated, but is unsure what the public is going to think about it.Boothman says eliminating brands now, and experimenting with greener automobiles is coming a little late. He says brands such as Pontiac should have been phased out 10 to 15 years ago.Boothman says it's going to be hard for GM to pay back their government loans quickly because their debt was in the area of $172 billion dollars including assets

Small Optimism Dipped Slightly In New Brunswick

Business optimism among Canada's small business owners dipped last month despite hopeful signs earlier this year.The Canadian Federation of Independent Business shows decreases in provincial business optimism for the month of June.New Brunswick only slipped slightly going from 66.9 percent in May to 66.4.This province is showing the third highest level of optimism in the country coming in behind Prince Edward Island, and Saskatchewan.

Hache Getting Used to New Position

Still new to the porfolio, Education Minister Roland Hache says he's easing his way into the position.Hache tells us, he spent a long time as Minister of the Environment, and is enjoying the challenges with his new post.Hache recently announced $2.9 million dollars going towards reinstating educational support staff, and says next on the agenda is the transportation file.Hache says he is confident a solution can be figured out.

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Public meeting tonight about CCCC

Updated July9/09

A public meeting is being held today by The Town of St. Stephen to answer questions on the environmental report of the proposed Budd Avenue Civic Centre . An independent assessment report released June 29 said the preferred Budd Avenue site is suitable for construction. The report concludes the site has traces of environmental con-tamination but falls within the environmental guidelines for commercial construction.The meeting will be at the St. Stephen Legion from 3:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Moose Licenses

Updated July9/09


There's a call to allow the killing of more moose in the province. The provincial wildlife federation wants the government to offer more tags for the three-day hunting season. Federation president Roland Michaud says the Department of Natural Resources has under-estimated the moose population. He says the possibility might be there to increase the quota significantly in some management zones.

This week, just over 34-hundred hunting licences were granted for the season.

More Swine Flu

Updated July9/09

The Health Department is confirming the first hospitalized case of the so called swine flu in the province. This is the seventh case of the H1N1 virus announced in two days.Deputy Chief Medical Officer of Health Dr. Paul Van Buynder says they received confirmation that a woman in her 30's from northern New Brunswick is currently recovering in the hospital.
This brings the total number of cases in the province to 17.

Gas Prices

Updated July9/09

Drivers heading into another summer weekend will be happy to hear this. The price of gasoline has dropped by nearly 3 cents a litre. The Energy and Utilities Board has set its maximum price schedule with a litre of self-serve gasoline coming in at 99.3. Gas stations in St Stephen are posting a pump price of 97.2 cents a litre.
Diesel fuel has also dropped to land at a maximum of 97.4, while propane is about the same as yesterday at 97.4 cents a litre

Bear Warning

Updated July 9/09

A family In St John got quite a surpise last night while cooking when they saw a bear with its nose pressed up against their kitchen window.There have been several sightings of bears over the past couple of weeks.Nobody was hurt but the bears are hungry this time of year and they are looking for food.
Just last week here at home the Calais Police Department had reported bear sightings in the Calais area. Calais Police is reminding residents to keep garbage indoors, bring in birdfeeders and grills as these will attract bears.So far we've had no reports of any beer incidents around the Charlotte County area.

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

How Much Rain Have We Had

Updated July8/09


So just how much rain has Charlotte County been soaked with over the past three weeks? With three days of sunshine in the forecast this week, we can look back and see just how miserable things have been. Since the 15th of last month, 135 millimeters has fallen since this past Sunday with the average being just over 60 millimeters. Evironment Canada Meteorologist Claude Cote tells Tide News, he has been doing this for awhile and can't remember this soggy of a start to the summer season. If the rain-fall amount didn't depress you.....this probuably will.........we haven't seen a full day of sunshine since June.17th.

NB Southern Railway Boost

Updated July8/09


Ottawa and Fredericton are investin $18 million dollars into New Brunswick Southern Railway for an upgrade. The company will provide the remainder of the funding for the project which is expected to create 35-40 jobs. The money will be used to replace, upgrade and improve the ties, steel rail, rail bed and bridges and upgrade the railway's terminals in Saint John and McAdam.
There will also be an upgrade to the mainline track from Saint John West to the border and from McAdam to St. Stephen.

Down-East LNG Report is Done

Updated July8/09

There is no mincing of words from Premiers Graham's office concerning the proposed LNG Terminal in Maine. Graham has completed and sent in a report on the Downeast LNG draft environmental impact statement. It says the project would have major impacts on the lives of those who live and work on Head Harbour Passage and Passamaquoddy Bay. The environment would be negatively affected, tourism- and environmental-based economy would suffer and the safety and security of the region could be compromised.
Graham will share the report with Prime Minister Harper in light of Ottawa's opposition to LNG vessel traffic through Head Harbour Passage.