St. Stephen Minor Hockey

St Stephen minor hockey gears up for the upcoming season. The video was taken at last nights practice at the border arena. In Atom division there is roughly Twenty eight players getting ready to be divided into two teams.


Video by Kim Hall

First Snow Fall

That four letter word no one wants to hear made its way to Charlotte and Washington County yesterday. Most of the area received snow last night and made roads a little tricky to drive on. A Caller to our 466-2222 news line tells us in UpperTower Hill there was plenty of snow falling on the ground to share with the rest of the county. 
Rcmp tell us due to slippery roads there were numerous accidents reported but no major injuries. Police say the majority were in the east section of the County, St George and Lepreau area.

Rcmp remind drivers to take you time heading to work.

A Free Workshop Held In St Stephen

(Photo by Kim Hall)


The NB Coalition for Pay Equity will be holding a free workshop today at Humphreys’ Funeral Home in St Stephen. The workshop will provide individuals who work in predominately female jobs with information and tools to promote pay equity in their workplaces, and to gain a better understanding of the pay equity process. It starts at 6:30 tonight.

Big Winning Coming Soon

Loyal listeners of 98.1 The Tide will soon be able to win
some very big prizes. The Tide's Country Club is now up and
running on our website at www.thetide.ca.
Only Country Club members will be able to win the big monthly
prize. Become a member today.

Improved Marks for Francophone Students

The report cards are in for Francophone Schools around the Province and the numbers show plenty of promise. In Grade 2, 72 per cent of francophone students are reaching or exceeding the oral reading standard and 73 per cent have achieved the objective in reading comprehension.




In math, 64 per cent of Grade 5 students, 58 per cent of Grade 8 students, and 53 per cent of Grade 11 students attained or exceeded the standard. In science and technology, 65 per cent of Grade 5 students reached or exceeded the standard. Report cards will be sent home with students in the coming days.

High Speed Chase

A High Speed Chase Between A Car and SUV was the start to a long weekend for two women. According to a witness a car came flying out of West Street across the road into someone's yard then back out on the streets on Milltown Blvd. A caller to our 466-2222 news line tells us a driver was being chased by a gray SUV along the streets on Friday. The witness says the driver of a car hit the curb and almost hit two women and their three month old babies. 
Rcmp tells us the driver of the car had just been witnessed of hitting and killing a dog on Milltown Blvd. The driver was in the process of fleeing from the scene and that's when the driver of the SUV chased the car to identify the vehicle. The driver of the SUV was a off duty officer.

Construction on Milltown Blvd.

Traffic may be a little slower this morning heading to work. St Stephen Works Department are replacing a damage water line on Milltown Blvd.

19th Annual Business Recognition Dinner

St. Stephen Area Chamber of Commerce will hosts the 19th Annual Business Recognition Dinner on October 21 at the Milltown Legion . The New Business of the year and Business of the year will be announced at the Dinner. The Guest speaker will be David Garcelon , Executive Chef of the Fairmont Royal York. The dinner starts at 6:00pm.

Harlem Rockets Game

Tonight will be the night to see the Charlotte County Stars take on the Harlem Rockets. Local celebrities will be at the Fundy High School playing basketball to see who will be the champs. John Craig, Rick Doucet, Mark Talor, and Andrew Foley plus many more will be the stars in tonight game. The doors open at 5:30 game time is at 7:00pm

Insurance Website

The Insurance Brokers Association of New Brunswick will launch an online insurance service next week to help consumers find home and auto insurance that fits.



Insurance brokers from St. Stephen and other parts of the province will be on the streets dressed in purple T-shirts.They will hand out information on the new www.myinsuranceshopper.ca website.


The purple blitz is part of a larger effort to improve recognition of the role brokers have in finding home, auto and commercial insurance in their communities.

Canada Post Makes Top 100 List

For the fourth year in a row.......Canada Post has made the list of the country's Top 100 employers. Compiled by Mediacorp, the corporation was selected from 16,000 companies invited to participate. Yesterday, we learned that NB Power has made the list as well.


Canada Post has more than 6600 offices across the country and processes a staggering 45 million pieces of mail every day.

Fire Destroys Home

Not a great way to start off a long weekend. Lawrence Station and Rollingdam Fire Department responded to a structure fire this morning in the Tryon area. Fire officials tells us nobody was home at the time but the house was destroyed by the blaze.  The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Top Honor for NB Power

NB Power has been named by Media-Corp as one of country's top 100 employers for 2010. This is the third consecutive year the public utility has been in the top 100. President and CEO David Hay says they are very honoured to be recognized nationally and for three consecutive years is significant.


NB Power employs 2500 people.

Service New Brunswick Closed On Monday

Charlotte County residents are reminded that All Service New Brunswick service centres and offices will be closed on Thanksgiving Day. Service New Brunswick TeleServices call centre will also be closed. Regular hours resume on Tuesday.

Who Will Be The 2009 Business Of The Year

The President of St Stephen area Chamber of Commerce has announced the nominees for the 2009 Business and New Business of the year. Shelley McKeeman says the votes have been tabulated and the nominees for Business of the year are, The Chocolate Museum, Dave Dinsmore Web Design, and the Saint Croix Printing and Publishing. For New Business of the year the nominees are Apple Auto Glass, Laura Porter Law Office, and East Coast Air Heating.


The awards will be presented at the chamber’s annual dinner Oct. 21 at the Milltown Legion.

Gas Price Back Up In St Stephen

It was nice while it lasted, but after five straight weeks of price drops for gasoline, it is now back on the up-swing. The Energy and Utilities Board has set the maximum pump price for regular self-serve gasoline at 93.1, plus a possible two cent delivery charge. Most station in St Stephen are selling a pump price for 93.9 thats up from 90.5 yesterday.



The price of furnace oil has also gone up about three cents to land at 83.5, including the delivery charge--but--propane has dropped percentage points to 98.1.

St John Mayor Says Moving The CBS Is Not A Good Move

St John Mayor Ivan Court is calling it a dark day for the city and the province. Court says the decision to move the Canadian Blood Services distribution centre doesn't make sense, especially with Saint John having a trauma centre and a medical school about to come online. Court says bigger doesn't necessarily mean better.



Court says there should be two sites, one in the city to service New Brunswick and PEI, and the one in Dartmouth to service Nova Scotia.

Premier Graham on Blood

Feeling their deal was adequate to keep CBS in it's current facility, Premier Graham is disappointed to hear they will move the center to Dartmouth. He tells us, there is no set direction they will take from this point:



Graham adds he wants the service to be maintained out of New Brunswick and the offer to pay for renovations to the exsisting set-up was a good deal. The man who held the Health portfolio when the deal was signed for CBS to make the move, Mike Murphy, tells Tide News, it wouldn't be appropriate to make comment concerning another Minister's file.

CBS Is Closing Distribution Center

The fight would appear to be lost for Saint John retaining it's blood distribution center. Chief Executive Officer of Canadian Blood Services Dr. Graham Sher  says the decision made last year to move to Dartmouth is final. Sher adds this move will in no way affect the number or distribution of blood products in this Province.
Dr. Sher  says they continue to work with the medical community to discuss options surrounding distribution of product. He admits there was a delay in consulting with the medical community which shook their trust but he wants to earn it back.

Team Cooke Raises $9,300 For Charlotte County Cancer

Cooke Aquaculture employees and their families were the top team fundraiser for this year’s walk cause we care in support of charlotte county cancer. Team cooke raised $9,314. These funds were raised primarily by employees through payroll deduction a corporate sponsorship from Cooke Aquaculture for $5,000 and other draws and pledges. All money raised stays in Charlotte County to support individuals and families dealing with cancer. The grand total raised at the event was $79,853. 

Ferries to Undergo Maintenance

The Deer Island Princess ferry and John E. Rigby are set to undergo regular fall maintenance. Work on the Deer Island got started on Sunday and is expected to finish this Sunday. Maintenance on the John E. Rigby is scheduled to last a week as well starting on the 18th.


The Island Hopper, an 18-vehicle replacement vessel will be used at both sites while maintenance work is carried out.

Severe weather bulletin issued

A low pressure system approaching the maritimes from the great lakes will bring rain to new brunswick today. rain will begin over southwestern new brunswick late this morning and reach northeastern new brunswick by this evening. the rain is forecast to taper off to showers thursday morning as the low moves out to sea. heavy rain is expected for the southern half of new brunswick with rainfall totals for the event exceeding 50 millimetres.

Water Shut Off Notice

The Town of St. Stephen would like to advise that the town water will be shut off today (Tuesday, Oct 6th) from 9:30am to 4pm on Pleasant Street, from Milltown Blvd. to Green Street, Including Green Street and Eaton Street. 

This work will be done as quickly as possible and the town will have the water turned back on as soon as possible.  The Town of St. Stephen apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause.

Charlotte County man in serious condition

An industrial accident late last week has left one man at the Regional in serious condition.
St. George RCMP tell us they were called to a barge near a salmon cage on Friday afternoon around one o'clock. Officer's confirm the man is from the Charlotte County area but no name is being released. Worksafe NB tells Tide News, they are investigating an industrial accident in Charlotte County that happened on Friday afternoon but no other details at this point.


An official does tell us how-ever it is vital when working with equipment to hoist heavy materials, that they equipment is working properly and is inspected on a regular basis.

Bishop Sex

The Archbishop of Halifax says it's important for parishioners to realize that priests can also be sinners. Anthony Mancini read a two-page letter at Sunday mass yesterday in Halifax. It was the first time parishioners had been in church since it became public that Bishop Raymond Lahey had been charged with importing and possessing child pornography.



Lahey, who resigned a week ago as bishop was charged on September 25th after his laptop was seized at the Ottawa airport and alleged to contain pornographic images of children. He is due back in court on November 4th.
(Courtesy of the Canadian Press)

The Graham Government are celebrating it's Third Anniversary

The Graham Government are celebrating it's third anniversary of being sworn in.
Premier Shawn Graham is looking back on the governments accomplishments, and says it's greatest achievement to date is job creation.
The provinces employment growth was 3.9 per cent between September of 2006 and August 2009, the highest east of Ontario.
Graham also says the Population Growth Secretariat is reporting the population has increased for the 10 straight quarter which means there are nearly 46 hundred more people in the province since the beginning of 2007.
Graham says there is still a lot of work to be done to ensure the province is self sufficient by 2026.

Fire Prevention Week

To kick off fire prevention week , the Fire Departments in Charlotte County are reminding children the importance of Fire Safety. The official launch took place Saturday at the St. Andrews Fire Department, 80 Reed Ave.

Town receives application to Re-Zone Tax and Duty Free Shop

St Stephen Town Council has received an application to re-zone property at 23 St. Stephen Drive near the third bridge crossing off highway one to construct a new tax and duty free shop. The Old building in Milltown Building Boulevard is currently up for sale.

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

 Want to decorate a bra for a great cause? Curves in Calais, Maine is doing a fundraiser in recognition of National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. The event is called Bras for the Cause. Members or non-members can submit a decorated bra that will be hung on the wall at Curves in Calais. It costs $1 to submit a decorated bra and $1 to vote. The winning submitter wins a free month's membership at Curves. All money raised goes to the hospital's fundraising campaign.

St. Stephen Elementary School Terry Fox Run

Today students and teachers from St. Stephen Elementary School along with parents and guardians took part in their annual Terry Fox Run in St. Stephen.  Students walked through the streets of St. Stephen holding signs and banners that they made themselves in support of Terry Fox.

 

Who Bagged a Swamp Donkey

Now that Moose Hunting Season is done for another year, how many people are or already have some meat tucked away in their deep freeze. The Department of Natural Resources tells us, preliminary figures show that 2436 moose were shot during the third week of last month. Just over 3500 hunters were awarded a license through a lottery.




Total moose numbers are up in all 4 regions, with Region 1, the Northern Half of the Province, showing the greatest increase. In Region 3 which covers the St. George, Sussex and Welsford area's to name a few, the number of animals shot is up one per cent. Deer hunting season starts Oct.26th and finishes up Nov.21st.

St Stephen Man Gets Life

A Moores Mills man on trial for first-degree murder in the stabbing death of an infant has changed his plea to guilty. Twenty-eight-year-old Rodney Miller entered the plea yesterday and was given an automatic sentence of life in prison with no chance for a parole for 25 years.

Cooke Aquaculture of Black's Harbor is ranked number 15

(Photo ,Courtesy from Cooke Aquaculture )

Four Saint John based companies and one in Black's Harbor are in the ranks of the top 101 businesses in Atlantic Canada.


The rankings are published in the latest edition of regional business magazine "Progress."

Cooke Aquaculture of Black's Harbor is ranked number 15 while Stellarton based Empire Company holds the number one spot

Tender Called For New DOT Office in St. Stephen

(Transportation Minister Denis Landry, File Photo)


Transportation Minister Denis Landry announced yesterday that a tender has been called for Phase II of the project to Start this fall the Construction on the new Department of Transportation office and repair shop in St. Stephen.


Landry says they plan to award the tender this fall, with construction to start immediately. This facility, which will serve Charlotte County, will be located in the St. Stephen Industrial Park. It will be completed over three phases.”

The former office and repair shop in St. Stephen were condemned in 2002 and demolished in 2004.

Phase one is complete, Fundy Contractors Ltd. of St. George won the contract worth almost $2 million . The company undertook site preparation and utility construction. It also built an access road to the site.

Superintendent Moving On

(Superintendent Keith Pierce, File Photo)


After eleven years working in the same office his last day is today. School District Ten superintendent Keith Pierce will continuing working with the education department in the Improvement Services Branch. He will help over-see the school review and improvement process. Pierce tell tide news the position will be filled until they hire someone.


Pierce says he will miss the staff he has worked with for many years. He says he will continue to live in St Stephen. Pierce starts his new position on Monday.

Man Pleads Guilty To First Degree Murder

A man accused of fatally stabbing a newborn in the heart has pleaded guilty to first-degree murder. Rodney Miller entered the plea today after the Crown finished its closing arguments. The 28-year-old man's defence lawyer conceded that his client killed the baby boy,  but had argued it was second-degree murder.




Miller and his girlfriend, 20-year old Sarah Russell were arrested Jan. 29 on suspicion they had concealed the birth of a baby boy. Russell is charged with manslaughter but her case has yet to be heard. Her preliminary hearing is scheduled for Nov. 16.

Animals Are Looking Elsewhere For A Meal

A cool, wet summer has resulted in fewer fruits and berries than normal in the province -- and that means many animals are looking elsewhere for a meal. There have been a number of reports of bears, foxes and coyotes near homes in the Fredericton area and in some areas of Saint John.




 A Caller to our 466-2222 news line tells us there has been some citing's of foxes in the Rollingdam area and Bears in the old Ridge area.

Murder Trial Continues In St Andrews

Lawyers are down to their final arguments in the trial of 28-year-old Rodney Miller who is accused of murder in the death of newborn baby boy. Yesterday in St. Andrews, a videotape of a police interr-ogation of Miller was played in court.


On the tape, Miller said he and his girlfriend Sarah Russell talked about killing the baby, three months before it was born. Miller told police he stabbed the newborn, and then burned the remains in woods near their home in Moore's Mills.

A Non-Confidence Motion To Be Voted On In The House of Commons

(Southwest MP Greg Thomspon, File Photo )



With all the speculation about another election this fall, South West MP Greg Thompson tells Tide news it makes no sense to have an election when we just had one less then a year ago:

Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff has introduced a non-confidence motion in the House of Commons to try to topple the government.

But the minority Conservative government will likely be propped up with support from the N-D-P. It's expected to go to a vote later today.

Gas Prices Drop

Good news for drivers heading into the first weekend of October. The price of gasoline has taken another tumble--this time by nearly four cents a litre. The Energy and Utilities Board has released its maximum price schedule with regular self-serve gas coming in at 89.8--plus a possible two cent delivery charge. That's down from 94.5 yesterday. Most stations in St Stephen are selling a litre a gasoline for 90.5.




Diesel fuel has taken a 3 cent drop for a maximum price of 92.7 and furnace oil has also dipped to 74.5 cents a litre. Propane is holding yesterday's maximum price at 87.5

RCMP Cars on Fire

(Photo Courtesy of the Rcmp)


Two RCMP cars have been torched while mounties from Nova Scotia were in Oromocto on business Tuesday. Oromocto RCMP say the vehicles were in the parking lot of the Days Inn Hotel when the local Fire Department responded to the call at one in the morning. Both cars were already engulfed in flames when they arrived and were a total loss.




The Fire Marshall has joined the RCMP in their investigation.

New Government Garage Setting up shop in St Stephen

( Photo by Kim Hall)

Great news for the Department of Transportation and the citizens of St Stephen. The new government garage will be setting up shop at the Industrial park off progress drive in Milltown. Local MLA Rick Doucet tells tide news this has been a long time waiting:


Doucet says they should start construction late this fall and continue early spring. The DOT will provide service as far as St George. In 2002 the old government garage was condemned.

Gas Leak In Milltown Caused Some Excitement

Some excitement last night in Milltown area. RCMP spokesperson tells tide news Just after 6:30 pm they responded to a report of a gas leak on Queensway between Church Street and Hill Street in St. Stephen. The natural gas line had been struck by a worker operating heavy equipment. The St. Stephen Fire Department and Enbridge Gas made an immediate patrol and set up an exclusion zone of 90 meters, nearby residents were notified and traffic was diverted from the area. There were no flames of fire reported and no one was hurt or damage to property. After a short time the leak was sealed and the area declared safe.

Gas Leak

Some excitement last night in Milltown area. Eye witness tells tide news a natural gas line was hit around the causeway between church and hill street. Rcmp and Fire department was on the scene. Not sure how many people were evacuated at this time..

Gas Leak

Some excitement last night in Milltown area. Eye witness tells tide news a natural gas line was hit around the causeway between church and hill street. Rcmp and Fire department was on the scene. Not sure how many people were evucated at this time..

Trial Continues for St Stephen Man In The Death Of A Baby

The trial continues today in St Andrews in the death of a baby. A police officer who took statements from a Moores Mills man accused of killing an infant is expected to testify at his trial. Twenty-seven-year-old Rodney Miller is accused of first-degree murder.




Outside the court yesterday, Miller's lawyer, Joel Hansen said they don't dispute the fact that Miller killed the baby boy. But the defence maintains it was not a planned, deliberate murder.

Trying to Avoid the Swine Flu

Get both the seasonal and H1N1 vaccine shots.....that continues to be the message from Provincial Health Officials. This as plans to combat the virus continue to be rolled out. Dr. Scott Giffin is the District Medical Officer of Health and says high risk groups will be the first asked to roll up their sleeve.



Dr. Giffin adds seasonal flu shots will be available next month and the first round of H1N1 influenza will be rolled out in November.

Energy Minister Meets with Prime Minister Harper

There will be an impact to rate-payers but it will be spread over 30 years. That from Energy Minister Jack Keir following his meeting with Prime Minister Harper and Premier Graham this week. All three discussed the refit at Point Lepreau and Atomic Energy of Canada. AECL announced late last week the project is now 16 months behind schedule. keir has been facing a lot of criticism on this file from Conservative Leader David Alward:.




Keir says he would have felt better if Harper would have cut them a cheque but the argument remains the same, there was never a chance for the original schedule to succeed.

Local Rcmp Promoted

After many years of serving as acting Sergeant he has now been promoted to Detachment Commander. It was announced today that Corporal Bob MacKnight with the St Stephen Rcmp was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and is now officially the St. Stephen Detachment Commander. Mcknight was promoted to the rank of Corporal in 1998 and have been the acting Sergeant since sept 2008.


McKnight will oversee the operations of St Stephen and Campobello Posts.

The Second Annual Youth Movements Festival In St Andrews

( Duncan Cumming and Hilary Cumming, Photo Courtesy of SAAC)



The second annual Youth Movements Festival is taking place this year at Greenock Presbyterian Church in St. Andrews. The St. Andrews Arts Council is presenting a concert with University of Albany professors, Duncan Cumming, piano and Hilary Cumming, violin . A free will donations will be accepted and proceeds will go towards supporting the Arts Council’s performing arts outreach programs for Charlotte County children.




This program is to be part of a festival in New York called Youth Movements. The event kicks off on October 4 at 1:30 pm.

Man Goes To Trial Today In St Andrews

A 27-year-old man will return to court today to answer to a charged of first-degree murder in the death of an infant.


Rodney Stuart Miller of Moores Mills, near St Stephen was charged in February in connection with the death of a baby in January.

Sarah Marie Russell, 19, is charged with manslaughter and with being an accessory to the death.

RCMP found the body of an infant in woods near a home where the couple lived.

Russell will appear for a preliminary hearing in November.

The case has reopened an emotional wound in Charlotte County after a trial last year where a woman received a conditional sentence for disposing of her newborn in 2007.

Harper on Point Lepreau

( Point Lepreau , File Photo )

The economy not the only issue Prime Minister Harper was faced with during his visit to Saint John. Point Lepreau and the 18-month delay with the refit was front and center. Harper says Atomic Energy of Canada is being encouraged to finish this project as quickly as possible.



Harper adds the delay is costing a lot of money to both this Province and Ottawa. The Prime Minister met with Premier Graham and Energy Minister Jack Keir to discuss the issue. In a statement, the Premiers office says it presented its case to the federal government and the Prime Minister agreed to investigate the matter and respond to the Premier.

Harper on CBS Center

( Blood Service Center in Saint John, file photo )

As the future of the blood distribution center in Saint John continues to look bleak, it doesn't appear help is on the way from Ottawa any time soon. During his visit to Saint John yesterday, our news department asked Prime Minister Harper if he was up to speed on the file. Harper says it's his understanding this decision is made by an arms length body that has representatives from the Federal and Provincial Governments.




Harper adds these types of decisions are to be made by Canadian Blood Services not Health Canada. Just last week, Premier Graham told CBS officials the Province is willing to pick up the cost of an expansion at the current facility in Millidgeville. CBS says they will meet with the Health Minister next month to discuss the proposal.

Harper Makes a Stop in Saint John

The Harper Government will stay the course when it comes to stimulating the economy. Prime Minister Harper was in Saint John yesterday to deliver the third report on his parties economic plan. The numbers show 90 per cent of the plan to stimulate the economy for this fiscal year has been committed and Harper is addressing all the election chatter:



Harper says Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff just a few months ago voted to support the economic action plan and we are not out of the woods yet. The economy remains fragile and could take a few steps back through no fault of our own but due to the world markets.

Sports Page

Morning Sports


SSHS Varsity boys soccer team won the Matt Bender Invitational posting a 3 and 0 record. In game 1 SS defeated Fundy 1-0 in a shootout. In game 2, SS defeated Woodstock 1-0. In Game 3, SS defeated Harbourview 7-0.

The Saint John Sea Dogs are in First Place in the Q-League Atlantic Division after a 4-3 home win over the Moncton Wildcats.


In Highschool Football: Fredericton won over Saint Macs, Leo Hayes over Hampton, Oromocto over Saint JohnHS, Harbourview over Simonds, Saint Stephen over Rothesay, In Fundy Minor Football Pee Wee action: The KV Raiders defeated St. Stephen 49-27

In the NHL the winners are: Detroit, Tampa Bay, Buffalo, Edmonton and Anaheim Among the NFL winner are: the Jets, Green Bay, Jacksonville, New England, the Giants, Denver, Cincinnati and Indianapolis.


Over in the Majors: Toronto took the win, along with the Yankees, the White Sox, Tampa Bay, the Angels, Pittsburgh, Houston and Arizona

....................................................................................

Afternoon Sports

Afternoon Sports
In Highschool football: KV will take on Odyssee after yesterday's game was cancelled due to poor field conditions

In NHL Pre-season action: Florida will take on Tappara in Finland and Chicago will go up against HC Davos in Switzerland.

NFL play has: Carolina at Dallas
10 games in the Majors including: the White Sox at Cleveland, Kansas City takes on the Yankees, Minnesota goes up against Detroit, Baltimore at Tampa Bay, Toronto takes on Boston, Texas goes up against the Angels, the Dodgers head to Pittsburgh, and Houston takes on Philadelphia

Apartment Fire

Three people are under the care of the Canadian Red Cross after an apartment building fire yesterday around 5pm in St John. A high rise on Brunswick Drive went up in flames damaging the homes of two women and one man leaving them temporarily homeless.
The Canadian Red Cross has arranged emergency ac-commodations, meals, and clothing for them. No one was hurt during the blaze. No word at this point on the cause.

Harper Visits Saint John

Prime Minister Stephen Harper will deliver his government's third economic report card in Saint John today. Harper's speech will be followed closely since his government is dealing with the largest budget deficit in Canadian history. Finance Minister Jim Flaherty says it will be more than five billion dollars higher than originally thought, to a projected 55.9 billion.
No matter what the update says, Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff says his party will introduce a non-confidence motion.

Alward on Point Lepreau

This is news that should concerns all tax-payers....that from Conservative Leader David Alward on the latest numbers on the Lepreau refit. It's 18 months behind schedule and isn't scheduled to go back on line until February 2011. Alward tells us, steps have to be taken to make sure rate-payers are not left shouldering the brunt of this blunder.
Alward says Energy Minister Jack Keir has a responsibility to manage his files and it's un-acceptable he tried to distance himself from it by saying he asked for answers and couldn't get any.

Premier Praises Canaport LNG Terminal

[Premier Shawn Graham----File Photo]

Premier Shawn Graham says the opening of the Canaport liquified natural gas terminal in Saint John is something everyone should be proud about. He says not only has the project improved workers outlook of the province, but will benefit future projects.Premier Graham adds the Canaport LNG terminal is a great and important addition to the provincial energy hub. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held at the site last week to officially open it after three and a half years of construction.

Federal Government Standing Behind Contract

[Saint John M-P Rodney Weston---File Photo]

With word that the refit at Point Lepreau is now 18 months behind schedule, the MP for Saint John is weighing in on the debate. Rodney Weston was a member of the former Lord Government which signed the deal with Atomic Energy of Canada to get this project rolling. Weston tells CHSJ News, AECL and the Harper Government are standing behind this contract to make sure tax-payers are not on the hook to pay the difference in constructions costs.

Alward Not Holding Back

[Conservative Leader David Alward----File Photo]

We're still a year away from a provincial election but Conservative Leader David Alward is talking like a man the on the campaign trail. He adressed party faithful at it's policy convention in Moncton over the weekend and didn't hesitate to fire the first shot at Premier Graham.Alward also took a shot at the main plank of the Graham platform....Self-Suffiency. He calls that nothing more than a marketing slogan although it is better than the new license plate wording of ""Be in This Place""

Canaport LNG Opens

The Canaport liquefied natural gas facility has officially opened it's doors. CEO and Chairman of Repsol Antonio Brufau says the opening of this facility is a significant milestone for his company.

Brufau says the Canaport LNG terminal is largest industrial investment ever made by a Spanish company to Canada. The facility is the first LNG terminal in Canada, and is the only one built in the last 30 years on the North East.

Terry Fox Walk Has Been Postponed

Due to the weather the St Stephen Elementary Terry Fox Walk has been postponed unit next Friday Oct 2 at 12:30.

Terry Fox Run

(Dot Larsen, Cross Guard for St Stephen Elementary, Photo by Kim Hall )

The St Stephen Elementary School will be walking today at 12:30 for the Terry Fox Walk. Dot Larsen the Cross Guard for St Stephen Elementary tells Tide news she has participated in the walk every year since it began. She says she loves walking with the children and this is a great way for the students to remember what had happen to Terry and remember him forever.

Rcmp Are Reminding Motorist To Slow Down For The Terry Fox Walk

Rcmp are asking drivers to be on the look out for students, staff and parents walking during the Terry Fox walk. Corp Bob Mcknight with the St Stephen Rcmp tells tide news safety is a top priority.

Mcknight says drivers have been very respectful during the Terry Fox Walk.

Moose Warning

(Photo Courtesy of Natural Resources Department )

Police are warning motorists about the increase in wildlife on the roads.
Between September and November, there is an increase in accidents involving deer and moose.
The traffic division is asking motorists to be aware of the hazards with peak times being morning and evening.

Search continues for Missing Teen

(Hilary Bonnell, Photo Courtesy from the Rcmp)

The RCMP are continuing their investigation into the disappearance of 16-year old Hilary Bonnell. Bonnell was last seen Sept 5 at approximately 7:30 a.m. walking on Highway 11 in the Burnt Church First Nation.
The award offered by the Chief and Council from the area and donations received from people now stands at over $15,000.00.

Gas Prices

Not much has changed in the price of Gasoline this week. The maximum price for regular self-serve gas is 94.5 --plus a possible two cent delivery charge. That's down from 94.6 last week.
Diesel fuel has gone up just over a penny to land at 98.3, furnace oil has climbed two pennies to 83 cents a litre, and propane has also gone up two cents to rest at 98.8.

Moose Hunting Season

(File Photo)

Those lucky enough to have secured a license will take to wooded areas around the Province for the next three days. Today marks the start of this year's moose hunting season and 3000 people this year are eligible to bag a swamp donkey. Over 50,000 hunters apply for the computerized draw in the summer.
Officials with the Department of Natural Resources remind all hunters to be safe in the woods and respect your fellow hunters. They also remind all that once you bag a moose, you must take the entire animal to a Natural Resources Office or tagging station.

Fire Destroys Home in Canal

Fire has destroyed a home in Canal, just a few kilometres north of St. George earlier this morning. A man and woman escaped the flames with no injuries. Still no word on what sparked the blaze.
The Red Cross tells us so far this year, there have been over 300 significant fires where people have been permanently or temporarily displaced from their houses or apartments throughout Atlantic Canada. 12 people have been killed in house fires so far this year.

Lock Up Your Vehicle

Its been a busy few months for St Stephen Rcmp dealing with items stolen from un-lock vehicles. Corporal Bob Mcknight tells tide news there have been at least fourty to fifty vehicles broke into.

Mcknight says the thief's have been entering the vehicles in the middle of the night and minor items have been stolen. He says the best thing for vehicle owners to do is to lock the doors. If you have any information please contact the local police department.

Fisheries Minister Rick Doucet Comments On The New Certified Eco Label Salmon

(Fisheries Minister Rick Doucet, Photo Submitted by Chuck Brown)

Fisheries Minister Rick Doucet tells tide news this is extremely big for Cooke Aguaculture. He says congradulations to Cooke's and the Fairmont Algonquin now that the two have come together and added a new item to the menu. The resteraunt is now serving Eco Label Salmon. He says it is nice to sea more of the seafood industry become secure in the market place. Cooke Aquaculture is North America’s only producer of Seafood Trust Certified Eco Label salmon.

CEO Of Cooke Aguaculture Introduces Something New

(CEO of Cooke Aquaculture Glenn Cooke , Photo Submitted by Chuck Brown)

There is something new on the menu at the Fairmont Algonquin in St Andrews. Cooke Aguaculture and the restaurant have teamed up and is know serving Certified Eco Label Salmon. CEO Glenn Cooke tells Tide news they are hoping to have there product in as many restaurants in Atlantic Canada.

Cooke says the have been working with with Fairmont Hotels across the country but he says it is nice to start with your home town to kick of the Eco label. The certification was earned for Cooke’s dedication to producing high quality Atlantic salmon in an environmentally responsible and sustainable manner.

Moose Season

(Photo submitted by a Tide Listener )

Moose Season has approached us and the swampdockey's are out around Charlotte County.
A moose was spotted when a driver from the area was heading to work and spotted the beast by the side of the highway. Reminder to slow down and be aware the moose are out of the woods during this time of year.

St. Stephen mayor Reacts on Behalf of the New CAO

(St Stephen Mayor Jed Purcell, File photo )

St. Stephen Mayor Jed Purcell says John Ferguson's new postition Chief Administrative Officer for the town has nothing to do with the on going court battle with the Saint John pension board.

Purcell says the lawsuit has nothing to do with Ferguson's ability to perform the job and adds, he has one hundred percent faith in Ferguson.

John Ferguson Resurfaces

(C-A-O of St Stephen, Photo by Kim Hall)

A former Saint John city councilor has re-surfaced in the Town of St. Stephen. John Ferguson has been hired as the town's Chief Administrative Officer. Ferguson you'll remember fell out of favor at City Hall after allegations of making slanderous comments about the pension board which resulted in an on-going lawsuit against him. Ferguson tells Tide News, he doesn't suspect the Town has an issue with hiring someone currently in litigation with another municipality.

Ferguson adds he can't talk about the on-going court case with City Hall which is still in the discovery process. The new job in St. Stephen will pay Ferguson $75,000 dollars a year which he will start next week on the 28th.

H1N1 (Flu)

(District Ten Superintendent Keith Pierce , File photo)

In the meantime there has been no reported cases of the H1N1 here at home. District Ten superintendent Keith Pierce tells tide news the Health minister has been sending out the message for a while and it remains the same to wash your hands with soap and water.
Pierce says flu season is the worst in the fall and schools are keeping on top of the situation.

The New Chief Administrative officer

(The new CAO for St Stephen John Ferguson, Photo by Kim Hall)

There will be a new face around town hall. The mayor and council of the Town of St Stephen announced the new Chief Administrative officer at last night council meeting. After a three month search John Ferguson of St John has been chosen to be the new CAO. Mayor Jed Purcell tells tide news his personality and his resume was very impressive.

Speaking with Ferguson he tells tide news the first thing he wants to look at is how the civic center is going and when the construction will begin. He says he looks forward to meeting the people of St Stephen and working with the mayor and council.

Ferguson was born and raised in St John. He worked for four years on the common council for the city.

Schryer Flu

(Mary Schryer, Courtesy of Department of Health)

The confirmation of a recent case of H-1-N-1 flu at Rothesay Netherwood School should serve as a reminder to other schools and parents -- that's the word from Health Minister Mary Schryer.

Schryer says she's confident schools are prepared for any outbreak of the flu -- meantime -- she wants to clear up confusion over the availability of the H-1-N-1 vaccine -- Schryer says it will be available to all New Brunswickers free of charge and on a voluntary basis later this year.

Free Upgrades

Good news for adults looking to upgrade their school studies.Starting October 19th, free academic upgrade courses will be offered at New Brunswick Community College campuses.The programs will include a comprehensive orientation, email and telephone support and evening sessions.A spokesperson for the Department of Education tells Tide News, any adult aiming to improve their skills to find a better job is able to take part in the courses---but space is limited. http://www.nbcc.nb.ca/

Water line Repairs

Due to waterline repairs , The Town of St Stephen will being turning off the water at noon time today on the north side of Milltown Blvd from Maine street to King street .This does not include the Garcelon Building, Heritage Building and Bank of Montreal.

Handing Out the Swine Flu Shot

The first week of November is when the Department of Health will roll out the first shots of pandemic HINI vaccination the first week of November. At a cost of over $17 million dollars, it's hoped the shot will prevent the flu from spreading rapidly. Health Minister Mary Schryer says everyone, especially the high risk groups should get the shot.

Early projections from medical professionals say at least a third of the work-force will get hit by the HINI pandemic.

Superintendent Moving On

(District Ten Superintendent Keith Pierce ,File Photo,)

Charlotte County 's school Superintendent is moving on to further his career in the Education Department. Keith Pierce tells Tide news he has worked for District Ten over the past four years and the new position will carry a term of at least a couple of years or more.
Pierce says the position is with the Improvement Services Branch and he will help over-see the school review and improvement process. He will be working out of Fredericton but will serve St John, Rothesay and Charlotte County districts .

NB-Nuclear-Delay

(Point Lepreau, File Photo)


The province's energy minister says delays in the refurbishment of a nuclear generating station aren't good for Atomic Energy of Canada when it comes to future projects. Jack Keir says the lack of answers from Ottawa on Point Lepreau doesn't help A-E-C-L's bid to build a new advanced Candu reactor. Premier Shawn Graham says he's grown frustrated by the situation. He's written Prime Minister Stephen Harper, pressing for answers. N-B Power says the 1.4-(b)-billion-dollar project is at least seven months behind schedule.The utility says it will cost the province an extra 1 (m) million dollars to buy replacement power for each day the project lags. No one is willing to forecast a completion date.

NB-Girl-Search

RCMP are looking for help from the public in a search for a missing 13-year-old girl. Emily Deveau of Dieppe was reported missing late Wednesday night by her mother. She was seen with a friend at the Champlain Place mall Wednesday evening and again yesterday around Moncton High. Despite speaking with friends of the girl, police still don't know where she is staying. They do believe she remains in the Moncton area. The girl is five-foot-two and 140 pounds with dark hair, and she wears glasses.

NB-RI-Flight-Flap

Flying in a U-S governor to attend a conference in Saint John this week on the provincial government's dime isn't sitting well with the Opposition. The provincial government plane flew to Rhode Island on Monday to pick up the state governor, transporting him and other staff to Saint John. then returning them back to Rhode Island on Wednesday.
Premier Shawn Graham's office says the two round trips cost 98-hundred-dollars. That doesn't fly with Bruce Fitch. The Tory finance critic says the government isn't walking the talk when it comes to making choices in a tough economic climate. But Graham is defending the gesture, saying the governor wouldn't have been able to attend the conference otherwise due to scheduling difficulties.

Gas Prices

The price of gasoline has dropped two cents as the Energy and Utilities Board releases its maximum price schedule for the next week. Regular self-serve gas can sell for up to 94.6 cents a litre-- plus a possible two cent delivery charge. Most gas stations in St Stephen are selling fuel for 95.4.
Diesel fuel has gone up per centage points to land at 94.1--plus delivery; while furnace oil is selling for a maximum of 81.2 and propane is about one cent cheaper at 96.6 cents a litre---including the possible two cent delivery charge.

C-A-O

Mayor and council will have to make a decision at Monday nights council meeting who will be the next Chief Administrative Officer for the town of St Stephen. Jed Purcell tells us the two who are being interviewed are very well qualified but who will take the position will only be release next week.

Marijuana On Grand Manan

Over the past two months, RCMP on Grand Manan have found seven outdoor marijuana grow operations and seized over 110 plants. Officers tell us this is enough dope to roll 55,000 joints.
No word on any arrests or charges and RCMP say they uncovered the plants thanks to tips and their on-going surveillance.

News letters sent home to Parents

(St Stephen Elementary Shcool, Courtesy of Department of Education)

The principals in Charlotte County will be sending news letters home to parents to tell them about safety issues at schools. Derek O'Brien principal of St Stephen elementary tells tide news there will be a letter sent home monthly to discuss what they promoting in school:

O'Brien says the first letter sent home is discussing pets in school, no scents and allergies in the schools and washing hands frequently especially during flue season. He says if you have not received the letter it should be on its the way.

Washing Hands Kills Germs say Superintendent

District Ten Superintendent Keith Pierce tells tide news there have been no signs of the H1N1 flu virus in the schools here at home but he strongly encourages students and staff to wash their hands frequently. Pierce says if your sick stay home.

Pierce says the flu season hits this time of year but there are no more students sick then usually at this time for right know.

Protestors in Front of the Delta

Trades workers for the second day in a row staged a protest outside the Courtney Bay Inn in St John. This is to voice their displeasure with workers from Alberta coming in and taking jobs at the CanaPort LNG Terminal while many of them are looking for work. Spokes-person Terry Maceachern tells us, this just doesn't make any sense.

The crowd was loud but well behaved with a strong police presence on hand video taping the demonstration. The workers were hoping to get a word in with Premier Graham as the New England Govenors and Eastern Canadian Premiers Conference continues at the Delta.

Delays at the Reactor at Point Lepreau aren't sitting well with Premier Graham

Delays in the major overhaul of the reactor at Point Lepreau aren't sitting well with Premier Graham -- neither is the fact Atomic Energy of Canada Limited has been dragging its feet in providing answers to questions about the project. Premier Graham says it appears A-E-C-L isn't focused.

Graham says he will be meeting with N-B Power top dog David Hay later this week to discuss the issue -- and -- he plans on bending the Prime Minister's ear to get the crown corporation to provide updated information. The Premier says A-E-C-L is responsible for covering the costs associated with the delays under the contract struck by the former Lord government.

Wellness Camp

Premier Graham says it's going to be difficult -- but -- he will try his best to stay away from the sweets as part of his bid to promote healthier lifestyle choices in the province. Graham made the commitment while taking part in a news conference unveiling a new Atlantic Canadian ad campaign and website promoting healthier lifestyles.

The new campaign was rolled out during a news conference following a meeting of the Council of Atlantic Premiers in St John yesterday.

Man passed out behind the wheel of his Truck

A 41 year old man is facing charges of impaired driving. Rcmp responded to a call about a truck sitting in the middle of the four lane highway on Sunday. Rcmp say they found a man passed out behind the wheel of a truck. The suspect is due in court at a later date.

Also RCMP are investigating a report of theft of a front end loader and damage to property near Chance Harbour. The front end loader was later located in the ditch with damages done to the windows and headlights. Three vacant buildings as well as a power pole were knocked over by the person driving the loader.

Who will be the next Chief Administrative Officer

Who will be the next Chief Administrative Officer ? Two candidates will be interviewed tomorrow to see who will fill the position available for the new Chief Administrator officer for St Stephen. St Stephen Mayor Jed Purcell tells Tide news the C-A-O will be in charge of Roads , infrastructure , parks and recreation and all the administrative duties. The previous C-A-O , Hendrick Sleigenhorst resigned back in June.

Fire destroys Home

Nobody hurt after a fire destroyed a home Last night at the Milltown trailer park. Rcmp tell us that the fire happen around 2:39am this morning but the owners were out of town at the time of the fire. Police say foul play is ruled out. The fire started by electrical malfunction.

Lake Utopia Paper Mill

Environment Minister Rick Miles has announced the 180-day public participation process to renew the air quality for Lake Utopia Paper near St. George is underway. The process covers air-quality-related issues, including questions or comments about air emissions, pollution-control equipment, conditions proposed in the draft approval, monitoring and reporting requirements, and information on enforcement and compliance. Information on how to get documentation or to submit comments during the public review process is available on the Department of Environment website or at any department office. The current air quality operating approval expires March 12, 2010.

St Stephen Mayor remembers 9/11

St Stephen mayor Jed Purcell says when he first heard the news about the attack on the towers he was speechless. Purcell says he was in Toronto at the time and it was terrible news hearing how many had been hurt and how many had parished. He says they will always be remembered.

Purcell says it has changed the way everyone lives today not only in the United States but also here in Canada. Over 3000 people died and over 6000 were injured in the 9/11 attack.

8th Anniversary of 9/11

Today marks the 8th Anniversary of Sept 11 and many still feel the hurt of so many who died that day. Calais Fire Chief remembers very well the day when the twin towers were attack in New York City. Dan Carlow tells tide news it was heart breaking to hear what had happened.

Carlow says emergency crews all over the Country are like brothers and you feel the pain when you lose a emergency member. He says since the attack emergency service has change on how they provided service to protect themselves and the communities.