Juno Awards

Nominees for the 39th Annual Juno Awards will be announced today in Toronto.

This year's gala, honouring the very best in the Canadian music industry, will be in held in St. John's, Newfoundland.

Bryan Adams will receive a humanitarian award when they're handed out April 18th.

Drug Charged against an Oromocto Man

A guilty Plea from an Oromocto man today after a search warrant was executed last week. RCMP say they found a quantity of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. The 40 year old man will remain in custody until his sentencing March 25.

The complete list of ACM nominees.

The ACM Awards will air live from Las Vegas on CBS on April 18th.



Entertainer of the Year

Kenny Chesney
Toby Keith
Brad Paisley
George Strait
Taylor Swift
Carrie Underwood
Keith Urban
Zac Brown Band



Top Male Vocalist of the Year

Kenny Chesney
Brad Paisley
Darius Rucker
George Strait
Keith Urban



Top Female Vocalist of the Year

Miranda Lambert
Reba McEntire
Taylor Swift
Carrie Underwood
Lee Ann Womack



Top Vocal Group of the Year

Lady Antebellum
Little Big Town
Randy Rogers Band
Rascal Flatts
Zac Brown Band



Top Vocal Duo of the Year

Brooks & Dunn
Joey + Rory
Montgomery Gentry
Steel Magnolia
Sugarland



Top New Solo Vocalist of the Year

Luke Bryan
Jamey Johnson
Chris Young



Top New Vocal Duo of the Year

Bomshel
Joey + Rory
Steel Magnolia



Top New Vocal Group of the Year

Eli Young Band
Gloriana
The Lost Trailers



Album of the Year [Awarded to Artist(s)/Producer(s)/Record Company(s)]

American Saturday Night - Brad Paisley (Arista Nashville)
Produced by: Chris DuBois, Frank Rogers

Lady Antebellum - Lady Antebellum (Capitol Records Nashville)
Produced by: Victoria Shaw, Paul Worley

Play On - Carrie Underwood (19/Arista Nashville)
Produced by: Mark Bright

"Quitter" Produced by Max Martin & Shellback for Maratone Productions and Mark Bright



Revolution - Miranda Lambert (Columbia Nashville)

Produced by: Frank Liddell, Mike Wrucke



The Foundation - Zac Brown Band (Southern Ground / Bigger Picture / Atlantic)

Produced by: Keith Stegall, Zac Brown



Single Record of the Year [Awarded to Artist(s)/Producer(s)/Record Company(s)]

"Need You Now" - Lady Antebellum (Capitol Records Nashville)

Produced by: Lady Antebellum, Paul Worley



"People Are Crazy" - Billy Currington (Mercury)

Produced by: Carson Chamberlain, Billy Currington



"Red Light" - David Nail (MCA Nashville)

Produced by: Frank Liddell, Mike Wrucke



"Toes" - Zac Brown Band (Southern Ground / Bigger Picture / Atlantic)

Produced by: Keith Stegall, Zac Brown



"White Liar" - Miranda Lambert (Columbia Nashville)

Produced by: Frank Liddell, Mike Wrucke



Song of the Year [Awarded to Composer(s)/Publisher(s)/Artist(s)]

"Cowboy Casanova" - Carrie Underwood

Composers: Mike Elizondo, Brett James, Carrie Underwood

Publishers: Brett James Cornelius Music (ASCAP), Carrie Okie Music (BMI), Rincon Ave Music

(ASCAP), Stage Three Songs (ASCAP)



"Need You Now" - Lady Antebellum

Composers: Dave Haywood, Josh Kear, Charles Kelley, Hillary Scott

Publishers: EMI Foray Music (BMI), Darth Buddha (ASCAP), Dwhaywood Music (BMI), Hillary Dawn Publishing (SESAC), Radiobullets Publishing (BMI), Warner-Tamerlane Publishing Corp. (BMI), Year Of The Dog Music (ASCAP)



"People Are Crazy" - Billy Currington

Composers: Bobby Braddock, Troy Jones

Publishers: Crozier Music Enterprises LLC (BMI), Mighty Nice Music (BMI), Sony/ATV Tree Publishing (BMI), Tiltawhirl Music (BMI)



"White Liar" - Miranda Lambert

Composers: Natalie Hemby, Miranda Lambert

Publishers: Pink Dog Publishing (BMI), Sony/ATV Tree Publishing (BMI), Tiltawhirl Music (BMI)



"You Belong With Me" - Taylor Swift

Composers: Liz Rose, Taylor Swift

Publishers: Sony/ATV Tree Publishing (BMI), Taylor Swift Music (BMI)



Video of the Year [Awarded to Producer(s)/Director(s)/Artist(s)] (Off Camera Award)

"Boots On" - Randy Houser

Producer: Eric Welch

Director: Eric Welch (Drake footage: Vickie Vaughn)



"Need You Now" - Lady Antebellum

Producer: Clarke Gallivan

Director: David McClister



"Welcome To The Future" - Brad Paisley

Producers: Mark Kalbfeld, Jim Shea, Peter Tilden

Director: Jim Shea



"White Liar" - Miranda Lambert

Producer: Tameron Hedge

Director: Chris Hicky



"You Belong With Me" - Taylor Swift

Producer: Randy Brewer

Director: Roman White



Vocal Event of the Year [Awarded to Artist(s)/Producer(s)/Record Company] (Off Camera Award)

"Hillbilly Bone" - Blake Shelton featuring Trace Adkins (Reprise Records / Warner Music Nashville)

Producer: Scott Hendricks



"Honky Tonk Stomp" - Brooks & Dunn featuring Billy Gibbons (Arista Nashville)

Producer: Ronnie Dunn, Terry McBride



"I Told You So" - Carrie Underwood featuring Randy Travis (19/Arista Nashville)

Producer: Mark Bright



"I'm Alive" - Kenny Chesney with Dave Matthews (Blue Chair/BNA)

Produced by: Buddy Cannon, Kenny Chesney



"Seeing Stars" - Jack Ingram featuring Patty Griffin (Big Machine Records)

Produced by: Jack Ingram, Jeremy Stover

Blue Barrel Mystery

A few tense moments for the Saint John Fire Departments Haz-Mat Unit on the West Side. They were called to Highway One eastbound to find a blue barrel full of chemicals in the ditch near the Waste Water Treatment Plant. It was discovered just before three this afternoon by someone driving by.

No word at this point where it may have come from and it doesn't appear the barrel was leaking any of the chemicals.

Annabelle Juneau to seek Liberal Nomination

Grand-Daughter of Guy R Day Annabelle Juneau has announced her candidacy to seek the Liberal Nomination to represent Charlotte-Campobello in the next Provincial Election. Juneau say she a little late coming on the scene but has decided to run after being approached by friends and feels she has what it takes to represent Charlotte-Campobello. Juneau say she has three top priority. Her main concerns for Charlotte Campobello is Education, Health Care and Employment. Juneau would like to see green Industry in the area to provide jobs. Juneau was born in Montreal and moved to St. Stephen when she was 10 where she graduated from St. Stephen High School.
Juneau recently retired this past years from Canada Customs and has 34 years of Experience within the federal government. The Nominating Convention will be held March 13th at the St. Stephen High school.. To date Juneau will is running against two other candidates Ralph Williams and Dave Ganong.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper says the medal haul and the 2010 Vancouver Games generally gave Canada a big jolt of confidence.


Speaking in Vancouver, he praised the Olympics' host province, saying British Columbia did Canada proud.

Harper hinted that his government would continue to support the Own the Podium Program which provides funding for athletes.

C-T-V says at least 80 per cent of Canadians watched all or part of the gold medal game between Canada and the U-S -- with an average audience of 26.5 (m) million viewers.

Canada won gold when Sidney Crosby made it 3-2 in overtime.

NB-Teen-Pregnancy

After years of decline, the teen pregnancy rate in New Brunswick is climbing again.

The province's Advisory Council on the Status of Women says it's disappointed with the findings in a new report.

Executive director Rosella Melanson says the teen pregnancy rate had been dropping since the 1970s -- but starting rising again in 2006.

Melanson says the group is baffled by the turnaround

Missing 54 year old woman, Moncton

Mounties are asking for help finding a missing woman. Fifty-four-year-old Donna O'Rielly was last seen Friday night leaving the Highfield Square Mall in Moncton.
O'Rielly is 5-3, weighs 130 pounds and has green eyes and shoulder-length, brown hair. She was wearing a brown, medium-length suede jacket and jeans, and was carrying a brown purse and lunch bag.If you have seen her, you can contact your local RCMP or Crimestoppers.

Canada Wins Gold!!!

Sidney Crosby got the winning goal for Team Canada as they win gold against the United States.
Final score 3 (Canada)    /     2 (USA)   in overtime.

Debate of Government's Energy Plan

The provincial government will call for a full debate in the legislative assembly on legislation to implement the energy agreement between New Brunswick and Quebec. Energy Minister Jack Keir and Government House Leader Greg Byrne made the announcement today.
Keir and Byrne said that the government will introduce the legislation when the final agreements are ready, and that the government will also allow for more than 30 days of debate prior to a final vote on this legislation.

The legislation and agreements will be tabled on or about Wednesday, March 31, with an objective of completing the legislative process by Friday, May 21.

Keir also announced that the scheduled three-per-cent average increase of rates for NB Power customers will be suspended pending the completion of the legislative process.

Province supports up to 70 jobs for SWP

The provincial government is providing a $500,000 loan guarantee and investing $100,000 to help maintain up to 70 jobs at SWP Industries Inc., a value-added manufacturing company in St. Stephen.

The loan guarantee will be used for working capital, along with a $100,000 contribution from the Regional Development Corporation through the Community Development Trust.

The company produces a line of value-added wood products, fencing products from northern white cedar, as well as manufactured vinyl fencing and aluminum fencing. They serve more than 400 dealers in the United States and Canada. Raw material is processed at SWP's sawmill in Bayside, NB.

Gas Prices on the Rise

There has been a jump in gas prices after the weekly setting. The maximum price for self serve regular rose by almost 4 cents a litre to 103.5. The max for diesel has risen to 107.1 Furnace oil has risen by more than 3 cents a litre to 90.4 but propane went down to $1.14.

Moosehead Breweries and Boston Beer Company Celebrate Independence Together

At a news conference in Toronto, Koch and Moosehead President Andrew Oland outlined the long-term distribution agreement that means Moosehead Breweries and its subsidiary the Premium Beer Company will assume the Canadian distribution of Boston Beer’s portfolio including its flagship brand, Samuel Adams Boston Lager.

“This alliance is a real win for Boston Beer,” Koch said. “Our tastes are similar. As Canada’s oldest and largest independently owned brewery, Moosehead understands the Canadian market. I’m raising my Samuel Adams glass today to cheer our new venture.”

Details of the agreement include:

Moosehead will distribute the Samuel Adams family of beer -- including its seasonal offerings and variety packs.

Products will be available in 355 ml bottles, and 30 and 58.6 litre kegs for selected brands.

All Boston Beer sold in Canada will be brewed and packaged by Boston Beer in the United States.

Change in dates for spring weight restrictions...

Spring weight restrictions will take effect early this year as a result of the unusually warm weather.
Effective at 12 midnight on Sunday, Feb. 28, in southern New Brunswick, and at 12 midnight on Sunday, March 7, in northern New Brunswick.

The Province has experienced mild weather and this is expected to persist, This causes the roads to lose strength more quickly than anticipated. Starting the spring weight restriction on the new dates will help to protect them...Transportation Minister made that announcement yeaterday.

The spring weight restrictions are scheduled to end at 12 midnight, on Sunday, May 16, for southern New Brunswick and at 12 midnight the following Sunday, May 23, for northern New Brunswick.

Ambulance New Brunswick makes improvements to Responding Code One policy

Ambulance New Brunswick announced it's making improvements to its Responding Code One policy to allow for more discretion and judgment among paramedics regarding when they may exceed current speed limits.

The new policy states that ANB speed protocols with best conditions are as follows:

Vehicles will follow the posted speed limits of school zones between the hours of 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and anytime children are present.

During all Code 1 calls, paramedics shall drive with safety at all times, and are expected to not exceed posted speed limits by more than 20 km/hr.

On highways where the posted speed is 110 km/hr, the maximum code 1 speed is 120 km/hr;

With the discretion and judgment of the attending paramedic, the paramedic may deviate from the code 1 policy; however, the speed may not exceed a maximum of 130 km/hr.

Ambulance New Brunswick is considered one of the safest ambulance services in the world and – later this year – will be presented with a prestigious international safety award from the EMS Safety Foundation.

Fisheries Minister calling for search to resume

Provincial Fisheries Minister Rick Doucette is calling for the search to be resumed for two fishermen from White Head whose fishing boat went missing sometime on Thursday in the Bay of Fundy. The missing fishermen were identified over the weekend as 45 year old Harold Cossaboom and 35 year old Corey Cossaboom. Debris from their boat "The Whole Family" was located. The RCMP and Transportation Safety Board are continuing their investigations.

Gun fired at vehicle

No one hurt after shots were fired at an empty vehicle in Grand Manan on Sunday.
RCMP have arrested a local 37-year-old man who was seen shooting the vehicle.
After a search of the residence where this happened, police seized three firearms, ammunition and the damaged vehicle. The accused was held in custody and has a court date in St. Stephen today. Another 37-year-old man was also arrested for obstruction and later released. He will appear in court at a later date.

St. Stephen Chamber of Commerce 19th Annual Meeting...

The 19th annual Chamber of Commerce meeting was held last night with Guest Speak John Ferguson CAO for St. Stephen who spoke on the New Charlotte County Civic Center and what it means for St. Stephen and the region.... A large Donation to to the Civic Center was made by Sun Life Financial in the amount of $50,000..The Night didn't end there as Shelly McKeeman gave an extensive report on Chamber activities in the past year. The new board of director was installed and will be lead by Geoff Knight. Knight is the Executive Director of The Community Business Development Corporation.

District 10 receive National Certificate of Merit at Government House.

Five New Brunswick School Districts were presented with a national certificate of merit at Government House.

School superintendents from each district were presented with the Partners in Progress toward Inclusion certificates of merit by the New Brunswick Association for Community Living (NBACL) during its national Inclusive Education Achievement Awards ceremony.

Beginning in September, 2006, NBACL partnered with District 10 to develop ways to engage and involve high school youth to make their schools more inclusive. The partnership continued in 2009, allowing NBACL’s Transition Coordinator to work with students to create and implement a plan which will prepare them to participate in community life after high school. The Hon. Roland Haché, Minister of Education for NB. accepted the Award for School District 10 as Superintendent Derrick O'Brien was not able to attend the event.

          

A successful project that has come out of this partnership is the Workforce Development Program. Since 2006 NBACL has been working with 10 grade 12 students a year to help them acquire job readiness skills and Co-op education with employers within the community. The goal is to have the employer hire the studentafter graduation from high school.

NBACL, a provincial non-profit organization which works on behalf of children and adults with an intellectual disability and their families, recognized School Districts 6, 10, 14, 17 and 18 for their work in partnering with them on various initiatives to test approaches and find tools and strategies to improve inclusive education.

Current Maximum Prices for Gas

Gas prices are continuing their slow decline after the weekly setting. The maximum price for self serve regular is 99.7 a litre but is being sold in the around town for 97.6. The max for diesel is 104.1 Heating oil is listed at 87.2 and propane has gone up to 117.2 a litre.

All prices are in cents per litre.

Motor Fuel Maximum Total Price (incl. HST)
Regular Unleaded Gasoline Self-serve 99.7
Regular Unleaded Gasoline Full-serve 102.5
Mid-grade Unleaded Gasoline Self-serve 103.1
Mid-grade Unleaded Gasoline Full-serve 105.9
Premium Unleaded Gasoline Self-serve 106.5
Premium Unleaded Gasoline Full-serve 109.3
Ultra-low Sulphur Diesel Self-serve 104.1
Ultra-low Sulphur Diesel Full-serve 106.9

Heating Fuel Maximum Total Price(incl. HST)
Furnace Oil 87.2
Propane 117.2

Accident On Highway 1 Musquash

The Musquash Fire Department had to use hydraulic rescue tools to remove one person from an SUV following a three vehicle collision on Highway One. The accident occurred around 8:08 am yesterday when three east bound vehicles collided around the Ducks Unlimited Marsh in Musquash.
On arrival firefighters found one person still in her vehicle which had ended up in the median. Firefighters removed the roof of the SUV to extricate the victim.

The east bound lanes were blocked for a short time as firefighters worked at the scene. Only one person was transported by ambulance to hospital with what appeared to be minor injuries.

According to Fire Chief Wayne Pollock, it is suspected that a combination of glare from the rising sun and road conditions may have contributed to the accident.

Bank Robbery in St. Stephen

The District 1 RCMP is investigating a robbery that occurred on February 12, 2010 at a bank in St. Stephen, N.B. Around 12:30 p.m., a man entered a bank on Milltown Boulevard, approached the teller and demanded money. An undisclosed amount of cash was taken.
The suspect is described as a caucasian male, approximately 5’7 in height, and is believed to be between the early twenties and early thirties. The suspect could have facial lacerations.
If you have any information regarding this incident contact the District 1 RCMP at 506-755-1132 506-755-1132. If you wish to remain anonymous call Crime Stoppers at

1-800-222-TIPS(8477).

The Third Annual Eastport Hearts Warming Hearts Bikini & Speedo Run

Last year a dozen runners in bathing attire and one canine in a bikini raised over $4000 to help keep the island's poor elderly warm and assist with heating fuel. The Boat School - Husson Team lead by Skylar Cook, John Vreeland and, Jake Markos raised over half of last run's total.
"Given the fact that Maine has yet to see 85% of the LIHEAP funds from last year's levels as a result of new formulas put in place by the Obama Administration this year's run is more important than ever," says John Miller one of the organizers.

The Run is sponsored by Eastport's Happy Crab Restaurant. Owners Jeff and Lesley Starling always provide runners, those that pledge and the crowd that cheers from the sidelines hot chocolate and pizza following the run.

"No one should be shivering in the cold of winter, especially not our elderly neighbors," says Starling. "The race is a fun event that addresses a serious problem, Maine's elderly poor shivering and just getting by. The run is all about neighbor helping neighbor and making a difference in the quality of life for many that are cold this winter."

The race starts at Eastport's Post Office Square at 2:00 PM on Valentine's Day and follows the island's historic waterfront along Water Street 5 short blocks to the Happy Crab Restaurant. There is still time to sign-up as a runner and to get your pledge sheet filled, enter a runner or team from your business or organization, pledge for a runner and certainly come out and cheer. Raye's Mustard is always on hand to provide all runner's and those that have pledged with jars of their "Hot & Spicy" mustard as a way to say thank you and to help celebrate Valentine's Day

District 10 Teachers take Educational leave in 2010-11

Seventy-two teachers across the province have been granted educational leaves in the 2010-2011 year as a part of educational study.

Patrica Deering District Literacy Support for District 10 will be take a one years leave. Milltown Elementary's principal Mrs. Heather Bell-Williams along with Denise Concepcion Milltown's grade two teacher will be taking a six monthe leave.

Educational study leaves are granted to teachers wishing to devote up to one year of study or travel for retraining, specialization or professional growth. They vary from three months to a full year.

The leaves include administration leadership; masters of education with specialization in resource and methods; and training in the subject fields of literacy, mathematics, special needs and guidance/counselling.

The Department of Education has invested 2.7 million in this program.

Special Flag Boxes made for honoured Deceased

Wooden boxes have been made to hold the New Brunswick flags which are presented to the families of deceased honoured New Brunswickers.
Traditionally, the flag at the legislative assembly is flown at half-staff to honour the death of prominent New Brunswickers and then presented to the family of the deceased. The special boxes are being made by staff and residents of the New Brunswick Youth Centre in Miramichi. The first two boxes were presented recently to the Office of Protocol at the Department of Intergovernmental Affairs.

The boxes are made from maple, and measure 30 cm by 30 cm.

McAdam Railway Station celebrates grand opening of the Maxwell Room

The McAdam Railway Station celebrated the grand opening of the Maxwell room yesterday.The event was held as part of New Brunswick Heritage Week 2010.
The Government of Canada, through ACOA’s Strategic Community Investment Fund and Innovative Communities Fund has invested nearly $740,000 in the McAdam Railway Station project. The Province of New Brunswick contributed $63,500 to the initiative while the McAdam Historical Restoration Commission provided close to $180,000.

Completion of the restoration project will allow the municipality to promote the McAdam Railway Station as a tourism destination, attract visitors to the area, stimulate the economy and create new job opportunities. The newly renovated facility will also serve to host community events.

MP for New Brunswick Southwest, the Honourable Greg Thompson, on behalf of National Revenue and ACOA Minister Keith Ashfield; Minister of Finance, the Honourable Greg Byrne; and McAdam Mayor Frank Carroll took part in the grand opening of the Maxwell room at the McAdam Railway Station today as part of New Brunswick Heritage Week 2010.

Built in 1900, the McAdam Railway Station is a National and Provincial Historic site and a designated Heritage Railway Station.

St.Stephen gets Birds Eye View with Google

Officials from Google spent a few weeks in St.Stephen, travelling around the area in a vehicle mounted with a camera. They have now gone over all the pictures and you can get an up close look at the metro area on Google Maps Street Level.


It gives you an amazing look at any street in the area and even an up close look at your property.

Beijing Student spend time in Saint Andrews

Seven Chinese high school students studying at the Beijing Concord College of Sino-Canada were able to sample a little rural hospitality in Saint Andrews.

The students had the opportunity to spend time at the Sir James Dunn Academy high school, as well as seeing what the small rural community has to offer.

While in St. Andrews, the students visited the Huntsman Marine Science Centre, and met some of the aquarium creatures, including the 22-lb. (10kg) lobster Big Dee-Dee, who became an international name in 2008 when he was donated to the centre after becoming involved in a tug-of-war between environmentalists, who wanted him released, and those who had a lobster dinner in mind. The story of his predicament and his subsequent rescue made the news in Australia, the US, Europe and China.

The school, affiliated to the New Brunswick education curriculum, gives students in China a head start when it comes to studying at universities in Canada. In July, New Brunswick students will have the opportunity to visit China thanks to the partnership between Atlantic Education International Inc. and the New Brunswick Department of Education.

Bay of Fundy Joins Olympic Spotlight at Atlantic Canada House

With just a few days to go until the official start of the 2010 Olympics, the Bay of Fundy is excited to be able to create heightened awareness of their global New7Wonders of Nature campaign at an Olympic venue in Vancouver. The Bay of Fundy is Canada's sole finalist in an international campaign to declare the world's top 7 natural wonders: a contest whose scope is much like the world-famous Olympics.
Atlantic Canada House will be opened on Granville Island, in Vancouver from February 13 to 28, 2010. The Atlantic provinces will be featured in music, cuisine, art and dance. On the Nova Scotia and New Brunswick partner days, the Bay of Fundy will share its story with national and international visitors.To vote for Bay of Fundy in the New7Wonders of Nature campaign, go to: http://www.votemyfundy.com/

Digital Mammography Fundraising Campaign Tops $100,000 Calais Regional Hospital

Calais Regional Hospital’s Digital Mammography Fundraising Campaign has reached the $100,000 mark. The response from our local community and a handful of foundations is very encouraging. The hospital will continue fundraising for the equipment through 2010. Hospital staff has also been applying to foundations that support healthcare projects.

The first major gift to the campaign came from the CRH Auxiliary in the form of a $40,000 pledge. Recently, representatives from the Auxiliary presented hospital Chief Executive Officer Michael K. Lally with a check for half of the pledge. “We were so pleased that the Auxiliary took the lead in supporting the campaign for updated mammography equipment,” stated DeeDee Travis, CRH Director of Community Relations, Development and Customer Service. “We are so fortunate to live in an area where the hospital, and the communities it supports, work collectively to maintain and improve the quality of healthcare available locally.”

Although still up and running great, the hospital’s current mammogram analog system is due for replacement. With digital mammography becoming the new standard, it only makes sense to replace the current system with digital. Many local patients are now being recommended for digital follow-ups and, CRH wants them to be able to continue to receive their care here, at home. Especially as some may find a hardship in accessing the service due to the required travel, or, even worse, may opt not to follow up with recommended screenings.

Digital imaging technology has changed the way rural hospitals provide care. It bridges the gap between larger medical centers and secluded rural hospitals. Not only do the images provide a higher resolution and more advanced techniques for better interpretation, they can be transmitted to other centers for real-time consults and advanced readings. Digital mammography will allow CRH to offer better visibility of the breast, quicker exams, fewer repeat exams and electronic archival of patient records.

Men plead guilty to death of dog, St. Stephen

Matthieu Gautreau from Shediac New Brunswick and Tony Kernighan from St. Stephen both pled guilty to failing to provide suitable and adequate food, water or shelter to an animal, an offence under the Criminal Code. Both men were sentenced to six months of probation, and prohibited from owning an animal for three years.

This was as a result of an incident in St. Stephen New Brunswick in May 2009, where the two men left a large dog in a parked vehicle for a extended period of time which resulted in his death. The investigation revealed that the dog died due to excessive heat and lack of nourishment.

New Maximum Petroleum Prices

Decrease in the price of gas after the weekly setting...The maximum price for self serve regular is just over a dollar a litre. The max that can be charged for diesel is 105.3. Furnace oil is also a bit cheaper at 88.1 but propane rose in price to $1.16 a litre.

David Ganong Releases Panel's Findings

A protest against the proposed sale of NB Power held late yesterday afternoon started at the corner of King and Queen streets made it's way to The St. Stephen Legion as David Ganong released his recommendation on the Sale of NB Power's asset to Hydro Quebec...

A six member independent panel who evaluated the proposed NB power deal with Hydro-Quebec has concluded the deal is good for this province.

The panel, chaired by Ganong and which included former Provincial NDP Leader Elizabeth Weir, was commissioned to study the proposed $3.2 billion sale of 10 NB Power plants, including the Point Lepreau nuclear generating station.

Ganong says the deal would result in lower power rates in the near and long-term and would reduce the financial risks associated with the aging facilities.

The panel is recommending the Energy and Utilities Board be given more authority to eliminate any government interference in its decisions.

Russell Verdict Handed down in St. Stephen Court

Sara Russell, 19 at the time she gave birth to her son at home in Moores Mills in January has been sentenced to 26 months in federal prison for her role in the death of her son today in St. Stephen court. Prosecution Lawyer Jim McAvity says the judge in this particular case was forced to show thru his sentence society imporance to this particular crime and had no other option but to sign Russell to a term of imprisonment. McAvity say the sentence was in the range the Crown suggested to the court that was between 2 and 5 years... Rodney Miller was charged with first degree murder and is currently serving a sentence of 25 years..

Groundhog-Day-Canada

Canada's most famous weather prognosticating rodent has disappointing news for those who've had enough of winter.

Wiarton Willie is predicting six more weeks of winter, having seen his shadow when roused from his slumber today.

Folklore has it that if a groundhog sees his shadow on Groundhog Day he'll flee to his burrow, heralding six more weeks of winter _ if he doesn't, it means an early spring.

The origins of the tradition aren't clear, but it's likely related to the fact that Groundhog Day falls midway between the start of winter and the beginning of spring.

Earlier today, both Nova Scotia's Shubenacadie Sam and Punxsutawney Phil in Pennsylvania also saw their shadows, heralding six more weeks of winter.

David Ganong to release NB Power Report

The St. Stephen Development Board and the St. Stephen Area Chamber of Commerce is co-hosting the Advisory Panel Special Briefing this evenging at the St. Stephen Legion at 5.

David Ganong will be presenting his Panel’s report on the sale of NB Powers assests to Hydro Quebcec in a private session for members and guests.

Mr. Ganong will provide context to the report and engage in a dialogue as to the background of their recommendations.

Grand Manan Ferry to be Named

A news conference is scheduled for today that will give us an update and a name for the new Grand Manan ferry. $65 million dollars was set aside for the new vessel back in the spring of last year by a boat building firm in Florida. The new ferry will have a capacity for 82 vehicles and will replace the current 25 vehicle ferry.  The 60 vehicle vessel will remain on the water with the new ferry to be finished by next year. The news conference gets started at ten o'clock with Premier Graham, Transportation Minister Denis Landry and Fisheries Minister Rick Doucet taking part.

The Tide's 8th Annual Marathon Food Drive

The 8th Annual Tide's Marathon Food Drive held over the weekend with our live broadcast from the Alantic Superstore brought in more than 1300 pounds of food and almost 900 dollars in cash.... This food will help feed the families that count on The Charlotte County food bank. Local community groups and businesses and town officials all came together to make the Food Drive a “huge success... Last year's years drive collected more than nine hundred pounds of food and over seventeen hundred in cash.

High Tides in St. Stephen

With the recent full moon on Saturaday night brought tides reaching the top of the wharf in St. Stephen over the weekend. Tides are influenced by the regular fluctuations in gravitational pulls caused by the sun and moon. One hundred billion tonnes of water flows into and out of the Bay on an average tide, twice a day, creating rip-currents, seething up-wellings, swirling whirlpools and a tidal range reaching 16m (53 ft) at the head of the Bay.

NB-Warrant-Arrest

A man wanted on a Canada-wide arrest warrant has been picked up in Fredericton. The 45-year-old was arrested without incident. Lonnie Dellas Carr was charged this week with aggravated assault, discharging a firearm and evading police after an incident in his hometown.

RCMP seeks public assistance in locating suspect, Oromocto, N.B.

On January 26, 2010, 45-year old Lonnie Dellas Carr from Fredericton Junction N.B. was charged in Burton Provincial Court with several offences including aggravated assault, discharging a firearm and evading police. A warrant was issued for his arrest.

District 2 RCMP is asking for the public assistance in locating Lonnie Dellas Carr. Anyone with information which would help in his apprehension is asked to contact District 2 RCMP at 506-357-4300 or their local RCMP detachment. Those who wish to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS(8477). The RCMP reminds the public to call them immediately if the suspect is seen and not to approach him.

Carr was charged following an incident that occurred in Fredericton Junction around 7:30 a.m. on January 23, 2010. RCMP District 2 Oromocto members responded to a complaint of an assault involving a handgun. The suspect used a handgun in order to gain entry to the residence of an acquaintance and committed an assault with serious injuries before fleeing from the residence.

Gas Prices

Gas prices are continuing to go down following the weekly setting. The maximum price for self serve regular is almost a cent a litre cheaper at 101.3. It's being sold around St. Stephen for 99.2. The maximum that can be charged for diesel is 105.3. Furnace oil is at 88.7 and propane, 115.5.

David Alward to speak at luncheon

The St. Stephen Area Chamber of Commerce is featuring Opposition Leader David Alward as its guest speaker at today's the luncheon at The St. Stephen Legion. Chamber president Shelley McKeeman said all Chamber members, as well as any other interested people, are encouraged to come out and hear what Alward has to say.

New Pediatrician Calais Regional Hospital

Calais Regional Hospital and Calais Regional Medical Services is pleased to welcome pediatrician David Walter, MD, to the active medical staff. Dr. Walter has over 30 years pediatric experience, including general pediatric care and neonatal intensive care. His most recent position was at Eastern Maine Medical Center’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. EMMC’s change from physician providers to nurse practitioner providers prompted Dr. Walter’s search for a new place to practice, which led him to Eastern Washington County and Calais Regional Medical Services.

Dr. Walter will begin seeing patients the second week in February. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Walter, contact the CRMS office at 454-8195.

Sudden Death St. Stephen

The District 1 RCMP - St Stephen Post are conducting an investigation into the sudden death of a 77 year old female resident of St Stephen, which occurred on January 24th. At this time, it has been determined that foul play is not suspected to be involved. The matter remains under investigation, pending completion of the post mortem report.

Sara Russell Sentencing

20-year-old Sarah Russell will be sentenced next month for her role in the death her newborn son last year.

She pleaded guilty to criminal negligence causing death in November.

Her boyfriend, Rodney Miller, pleaded guilty in September to first-degree murder for fatally stabbing the child and was given an automatic life sentence with no chance of parole for 25 years.

Russell's sentencing will take place on February 2nd.
 

Storm Problems

The rain and high winds knocking out power for more than 47 hundred NB Power customers around the province with most in St. Stephen and Fredericton. At this point there are still almost 1000 customers off the grid between St. Stephen and Frederiction. Power is expected to be back within the few hours. Drivers this morning are being warned to beware of pools of water on streets that can cause hydroplaneing if you're going too fast.

Lincourt Manor Gets Funding from Government

Premier Shawn Graham announced funding for Lincourt Manor today in the amount of 1.2 Million. The money will be used to undertake substantial renovations to include work on the parking lot, exterior walls, kitchen upgrades and air quality.

The government is focused on three priorities this year: jobs, learning and health and senior care," Graham said. "The government is committed to ensuring opportunities exist for all New Brunswickers to obtain quality health and senior care."

District 10 gets Funding from Provincial Government

District 10 on the receiving end of $885,000 from the Capital Budget. The Provincial government will nearly double it's investment in building, repairing and modernizing schools in the 2010-2011 fiscal year. In St Stephen the Elementary School receives $75,00 for sound proofing the gym...the middle school will spend $150,000 for foundation drainage and waterproofing.
Fundy High, Sir James Dunn Academy, and the Grand Manan school will each get $40,000 for roof flashing replacement. The Campobello Consolidated school gets a new roof with the price tag of $295,000 and Vincent Massey in Saint Andrews will receive $245,000 for Site development for parking.

Windy Weather For St. Stephen

Wet and windy weather is heading for parts of the Maritime region -- and several warnings are in place.

Environment Canada is forecasting heavy rain and strong winds for St Stephen and surrounding area in the overnight hours.

Up to 30 millimetres of rain expected with winds gusting up to 90 km/h along southwestern coastal section these strong winds are expected to produce large seas and pounding surf tonight.

Conditions will improve on Tuesday as the trough moves to lie east of New Brunswick.

New Dialysis Unit at Charlotte County Hospital

The provincial government is investing close to $1.4 million in capital and operating funds to establish a satellite dialysis unit at the Charlotte County Hospital in St. Stephen.
The announcement was made today by Premier Shawn Graham at Lincourt Manor .
The new capital and operating funding will support a new dialysis unit with five hemodialysis stations operating three days a week, 12 hours per day, with a capacity to serve 10 patients. The unit is expected to be in operation in early 2011.
Health Minister Mary Schryer on hand for the announcement said the investment will enable St. Stephen-area residents to obtain dialysis treatment closer to home.

The Charlotte County Hospital Foundation has contributed $350,000 for new equipment for the unit.

Conditions After Winter Storm

Yesterday's storm that hit St. Stephen and area turned out to be more intense than predicted with 17 centimetres of snow being reported with totals outside of town higher. Roads in places are slippery this morning with the milder temperatures last night and colder temperatures this morning...St. Stephen RCMP are not reporting any major accident due to yesterday storm...Meanwhile St John City Police saying driving conditions were treacherous yesterday reporting 27 accidents...One of the more serious mishaps occurred late in the afternoon when a car and school bus collided at King Street East and Pitt Street in Saint John. There were 21 young people on board the school bus at the time but none was injured. The airbags deployed in the car and one person was taken to hospital for treatment of a cut.

Gas Prices go down in St. Stephen

 St Stephen and area drivers are getting a break today if you have to fill up. The price of gas has dropped more than 2 cents a litre after the weekly setting. The maximum price for self serve regular is 102.1 a litre. St. Stephen is selling self-serve for $1.00 a litre. The max for diesel is 106.5 Heating oil is at 89.9 which is four cents cheaper and propane is at 116.7.

New Power Plan released by Shawn Graham

New Brunswick will retain complete ownership and control of its transmission and distribution systems following the conclusion of negotiations of an energy agreement with Québec. The announcement was made in Fredericton by Premier Shawn Graham, Energy Minster Jack Keir and Business New Brunswick Minister Victor Boudreau.
A New Brunswick-Government owned NB Power will retain NB Power Transco and NB Power Disco, as well as NB Power Holdco, while the New Brunswick System Operator will continue to operate as an arm's length agency.

As a result of these changes to the proposed energy agreement, NB Power will continue to operate as a New Brunswick-owned and operated Crown corporation, employing approximately two-thirds of the current workforce of the utility.

As the owner of the transmission and distribution companies, NB Power will continue in its roles of customer service excellence, planning, maintenance and development of our transmission system.

The New Brunswick Energy and Utilities Board and the New Brunswick System Operator will continue to have oversight as it applies to all aspects of the transmission and distribution networks in New Brunswick.

New Brunswick will receive $3.2 billion for the assets being sold to Hydro-Québec, projected to be a sum sufficient to retire the debt related to the generation assets of NB Power.

Hydro-Québec will still provide New Brunswick with a 14 terawatt-hour heritage pool of electricity, more than large enough to meet the province' current electricity needs. New Brunswick ratepayers in the residential, commercial and wholesale rate (RCW) category will continue to benefit from a guarantee of no rate increases for the next five years. This will mean those customers will avoid a planned minimum rate increase of 16 per cent over that period.

Fisheries Minister and Charlotte the Isles MLA Honourable Rick Doucet on the resignation of Veterans Affairs Canada Minister

Fisheries Minister and Charlotte the Isles MLA Honourable Rick Doucet on the resignation of Veterans Affairs Canada Minister and New Brunswick Southwest Member of Parliament, Honourable Greg Thompson.


This weekend, I learned that after a career spanning nearly twenty years in federal politics, Greg Thompson had resigned as Veterans Affairs Canada Minister and will not reoffer as Member of Parliament for New Brunswick Southwest in the next federal election.

Since first being elected in 1988, Greg's tireless efforts working for the people of Charlotte County have established his reputation as both a distinguished statesman and representative. The concern and passion he has for his community, province and country has shown a willingness to reach across political lines to move forward on our joint provincial-federal projects in New Brunswick. "Greg's success at the polls show people supported him regardless of party. That's probably because he supported people regardless of party"

" Since my being elected in 2003 to the New Brunswick Legislature and appointment to cabinet in 2006, I have had the opportunity to work alongside Greg on a number of projects for Charlotte County. Our efforts to deliver progress on such things as the funding of the number one highway, countless infrastructure projects in our communities whether it be road work or water treatment facilities along with ones that have been very close to each of us such as the Grand Manan Civic Center , St.George Civic Center the new St.Stephen civic center all certainly show the benefits that come with a productive and collaborative relationship between levels of government."
"I want to sincerely thank Greg for his dedication and support in fostering the positive relationship between New Brunswick and Canada. Together, we have brought forth results for our constituents as two Cabinet Ministers representing Charlotte County.

Honourable Thompson's departure from politics comes after a long and successful career. " He has bridged both political and jurisdictional gaps and I am forever appreciative for his enthusiasm and partnership as we have worked together as cabinet ministers in our respective governments for the people of Charlotte County."

Political Scientist Weighs In On Thompson Resignation

One political scientist suggests the timing of Minister Thompsons resignation may be foreshadowing what is to come.

Don Desserud tells us if you're going to give up a ministerial post, now is the time to do it, to give the new person time to prepare for the opening of parliament.
Desserud says his first reaction was Thompson is stepping aside to be elevated to the upper chamber.
Desserud says if he were a betting person, Thompsons stock in relation to being appointed to the senate just increased.
Earlier last week, Conservative Rothesay M-L-A Margaret Ann Blaneys name resurfaced as a possible candidate for the Senate, but Desserud says she's been in the game long enough not to get her hopes up.

M-P Thompson Resigns

[MP Greg Thompson---File Photo]

The Minister of Veterans Affairs is stepping down from his post but retaining his MP's status for now. 62-year old Greg Thompson tells us, he told Prime Minister Harper leading into the last election this would be his last kick at the can:

Thompson says after surviving a battle with cancer two years ago and being on the road travelling most of his career, it is time stay closer to home with his wife Linda and family. As for a replacement for the portfolio, Thompson adds he has no indication who the Prime Minister will choose and when the next Federal election is called, he will not re-offer.

Red Cross Looking for Donations

Several Red Cross offices in Atlantic Canada will be open today to accomodate those who want to donate funds to help the victims of the earthquake in Haiti.

In this province, offices will be open from 10 am to 4pm in Saint John, Fredericton, Moncton and Bathurst.

Another Business Outgrows Location

Another business leaving the downtown area of St. Stephen to expand to a bigger location. The Clothesline located on Budd Avenue is moving to The Old Frenchy's building along Route 170. It's expected the move to be final by February according to some staff member at The clothes line. Tide News has made numerous attempts to contact the owner of to see if this would create any new jobs for St. Stephen but have yet to hear back.

Food Needed at Charlotte County Volunteer Centre

Shelves are depleting as we end the second week of January...Over 2500 hundred pounds of food has been distributed since 4th and Donna Linten with The Charlotte County Volunteer Center say food is needed along with baby supplies and of course pets food.

Linton says income wise some family's are operating with little dollars people whom were working before Christmas may not be working now due to cut back in hours and job losses in the St. Stephen and surrounding area.

Manager of The Year Washington County's

It's a first for The Washington County Sheriff's Office!
Chief Deputy Mike St Louis will on the receiving end of The Manager Of The Year Award. This award is presented every year by the Maine's Sheriff's Association.

The award will be given at the Maine Sheriff's Association Conference in Portland in February. Sheriff Donnie Smith said words could not express how proud he is of Chief  St. Loius.

NB Liqour Collecting for Haiti

NB Liquor will be collecting donations for the Red Cross Haiti Relief Fund at all 47 NB Liquor corporate stores across the province.

Gas Prices On The Rise

Gas prices this morning in the St. Stephen area after the weekly setting. The maximum price for self serve regular is up almost 2 cents a litre to 104.8 but most stations are selling it for 102.8 a litre. The maximum price for diesel has also risen by less than a cent to 110.7 furnace oil is 93.9 and propane is at $1.17.

Grand Manan gets new Ferry

The provincial government will invest just over four hundred million dollars in the transportation infrastructure. That announcement made yesterday by Transportation Minister Denis Landry.


The budget includes a major investment to benefit residents of Grand Manan with the delivery on its promise to build an 82 vehicle vessel ferry.

Landry says construction has started and the name has been selected.

Fisheries Minister and Charlotte Isles MLA Rick Doucet will hold a conference in the coming days to announce the name.

Ghost Road upgrades Saint Andrews

The 2010-2011 transportation budget released included upgrades of Route 127 with a five kilometer section to be paved from Chamcook Road area to to the Ghost Road area. Rick Doucet Charlotte Isles MLA said this will be well revceived by area motorists and tourist who visit the region.

NBCC Saint Andrews helps Local Food Bank

You've heard of a cook off but have you heard of a weight off? NBCC's student Life Coordinator Justin Sweeney has taken a unique approach to raise food for the Charlotte County Food Bank.

Each Program and each staff are actually required as much no perishable food items as possible. On Friday when they are all weighted and then they groups that bring in the most pounds of food per person in group are going to be the winning groups.

Sweeney say making it a completion between the programs students and faculty seems to work out a lot better for everybody. The winners will recieve a full dinner put on by the Student Council.

Nuclear-Lawsuit

The Premier is threatening to take legal action against the federal government over the refurbishment of the Point Lepreau nuclear power plant.


Shawn Graham says his government will sue Atomic Energy of Canada Limited, unless Ottawa takes care of the cost overruns of the 1.4-(b)-billion-dollar overhaul. The project is 18 months behind schedule.

Snowmobile-Death

Sixteen-year-old Devon O'Donnell and his father were riding snowmobiles Saturday when they hit a barbed-wire fence in a field in Williamstown.


Both were taken to hospital, where the teenager died.

Canada Post Increases

Canada Post are increasing the cost of sending a first class letter within the country to 57 cents from 54, while letters going to the US will cost a dollar, which is an increase of two cents.


Letters heading outside North America will rise by five cents to $1.70.

Canada Post is attributing the rate increases as a measure to raise funds to buy new machinery.

Register Your Dogs!

The race is on for licence number one. Mayor John Craig reminds residents that your dog renewals are up and how important its not only for you but your dog to have it's licence. A lost dogs can be easier returned home when registered.

A dog licence helps protect your pet by providing an easy-to-identify dog tag and registration. Craig says it's funny how many people race to be the first owner of that number 1 tag for their dogs....but reminds all that The first step to responsible dog ownership is licensing your dog.

Crown Land Users Not Subject to Rent Rates for 2010

Rent Rates for 2010 will not be implemented for crown land users.The Department of Natural resources plans to hire an independent third party to conduct a market Value study to see if there is a need to adjust the regulated rates .. although one has yet to be picked.
Matt Jones with The Department of Natural Resources say currently this will affect just over 300 people in Charlotte County.

Two Fire Stations Become One

With a New Year what was two now becomes one. The Blacks Harbour Fire Department and the Pennfield Fire Department have amalgamated. Blacks Harbour fire department now consists of two buildings now known as station 1 and station 2. Station one in located on Wallace Cove road in Blacks while station 2 is located on Highway 1 in Pennfield. Combined membership numbers is around 30 volunteers.

Work Has Begun at the Huntsman Marine Science Centre

It’s started! Geophysical survey work is already being done on the lower campus at the Huntsman Marine Science Center in St. Andrews to prepare for the construction.

Support for the project totalling 5 million dollars has been received from the federal and provincial governments... This multifunctional project will integrate and show case missions of education, research, and innovation around the diversity of the Bay of Fundy, a natural wonder of the world.

The Health Minister is Re-Offering in the Fall Election

[Health Minister Mary Schryer---File Photo]
Expect to see Mary Schryer's name on the ballot in the fall Provincial Election. The Health Minister and MLA for Quispamsis tells us, she is ready to re-offer and stands behind the record of her government since 2006.

As for concern about any backlash from the NB Power-Hydro Quebec proposal, Schryer adds it is a work in progress and the Graham Government continues to listen to feedback.

New ATV Trail Hotline

Safety is the number one priority for the Eastern Charlotte ATV club in Pennfield and a hotline has been set up to help keep track of individuals on the trail, by doing so people may call the line with an estimated time of departure and arrival...Bill Mennie the club's treasurer says it's a good idea to know who and how many and what area to be searching in the event of an emergency. You can reach the hotline by calling 456-3767.

Skidder Fire in Basswood Ridge

RCMP in St. Stephen are investigating a skidder fire that took place in Basswood Ridge. Police say two individuals were spotted leaving the area on an ATV. Police are asking the public to come foward with any information that will lead to an arrest in this case by call 466-7030 or call crime stoppers at 1-800-222- Tips.

St. Stephen Animal Shelter Not Excepting Cats

The St. Stephen Animal Shelter is temporarily not excepting any cats due to an illness at the shelter. Board Member Evie Gagne say the cats are experiencing upper respority infections.

Gagne says the infections are common in shelters, because most of the cats are strays, and are probably not vaccinated.
Gange says the cats are doing well and all are up for adoption.

US Ambassador Thinks New Border Crossing Should be Used As Model

[New Border Crossing ----Photo by Lisa Gullison]
The United States Ambassador to Canada says all border crossings should follow the St. Stephen/Calais
example.

David Jacobson says the new state of the art building should be looked at as a model for other crossings.
He says other borders should look at the environmental standards used as well.
The crossing was built of natural wood products, and recycled materials, and produdes zero greenhouse gas emissions.

Prime Minister Officially Opens New Border

[Prime Minister Stephen Harper at the Border---Photo by Dave Briggs]
The Prime Minister was in chocolate town to inaugurate the new border crossing. The new St. Stephen Port of Entry is located on the new international bridge connecting to Calais. Stephen Harper says this helps to ease traffic between the border towns.

Harper says since the crossing opened in November residential traffic has eased, and commerical traffic has increased by 20%.

Stephen Harper officially opens New Bridge in St. Stephen

Prime Minister Stephen Harper is in St.Stephen today to officially open the new border crossing. Premier Graham and several of his cabinet ministers will join the PM along with officials from the State of Maine.


The Province has invested $60.5 million dollars in the project which includes 23 km's of new highway which stretches from Waweig to the new border crossing. The ceremony is expected to get started at 1:30pm. The new crossing and highway opened back on November.16th. Following the ceremony in St. Stephen, Harper will travel to Saint John where he is hosting a roundtable at the Delta at 5:30pm.

Gas Prices

The price of gas on the rise this morning in the St Stephen area following the weekly setting. The maximum price for self serve regular has been set at 102.9 a litre and 110.1 for diesel. Diesel is selling for 107.5.

The maximum price for furnace oil is 92.6 and 114.7 for propane.

NB-Aboriginal-Education

The New Brunswick government is spending more than $1 million to encourage more aboriginals to pursue post-secondary education.

The money will be used to hire recruiters and aboriginal co-ordinators at the province's universities and community colleges.

The University of New Brunswick will offer a bachelor's degree in First Nations governance and management the first undergraduate degree of its kind in Canada.

Post-secondary education minister, Donald Arsenault says the programs will ensure more New Brunswickers have an opportunity to obtain a post-secondary education.

Minimum wage will rise to Atlantic average by 2011

The minimum wage in New Brunswick will increase to meet the Atlantic average by Sept. 1, 2011, as part of a long-term plan announced today. The minimum wage will increase in four steps:
April 1, 2010: an increase of 25 cents to $8.50 per hour;
Sept. 1, 2010, an increase of 50 cents to $9 per hour;
April 1, 2011: an increase of 50 cents to $9.50 per hour; 
Sept. 1, 2011: an increase of 50 cents to $10 per hour.

Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour Minister Donald Arseneault said it is important to outline a long-term plan for increasing the minimum wage.
The recommended increases will fulfil the provincial government's commitment to raise the minimum wage to the Atlantic average by Sept. 1, 2011, which is expected to reach $10 per hour.

ATV Club in Pennfield Gets Groomer

A new year and a new Trail Groomer for The Eastern Charlotte ATV Club. The machine arrived on New Years Eve and is being stored in the St. George area until it can be fully checked over mechanically. Three people will need to be trained to operate this Snow Cat compared to the size of a bulldozer...Bill Mennie the clubs treasure says this is a positive step for All Terrian Vechiles drivers in Charlotte County. Mennie says members are always needed for the financial help to keep the club up and operating and ensure the safety for the trails in Charlotte County.

Dredging contract awarded for Deer Island Ferry

A $1.7-million underwater dredging project aimed at enhancing ferry service between Letete and Deer Island has been awarded to R.J.MacIsaac Construction Ltd. Work will begin this month in the Goat's Point area. Fisheries Minister Rick Doucet made the announcement today on behalf of Transportation Minister Denis Landry. Doucet said that the department will work closely with the contractor to co-ordinate a project work schedule. "This investment will not only enhance day-to-day ferry operations, it also ensures the service can function safely in emergency situations," said Doucet. "We are pleased to be delivering a project that strengthens the island's connection to the mainland, which is a major priority for the people of Deer Island."
Funding for this project, which is to be completed this winter, will come from the department's $385.8 million capital budget for the 2009-10 fiscal year.

Dementia News Conference

A news conference is scheduled for Fredericton this morning and the topic is Dementia. New statistics about the projected economic and social costs of the disease will be released by the Provincial Alzheimer Society to mark Alzheimer Awareness month. It warns the health care system could be overwhelmed. Twelve thousand people in this Province are living with a form of dementia and it is estimated that close to 15% are baby boomers under the age of 65. The news conference gets started at ten.

Maritime Storm

There's more snow and rain in the forecast for the Maritimes today --but nothing as severe as the weekend.
Up to 30-centimetres of snow fell on parts of the region yesterday and high winds knocked out power to 45-thousand customers in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and P-E-I. Rain and flurries are predicted for St. Stephen and surrounding area today..

Time to dig out.

Maritimers will be digging out today from the first major storm of the winter.


The region was lashed yesterday and overnight with combinations of snow, ice pellets, rain and high winds.

Nearly 45-thousand hydro customers in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and P-E-I were blacked out yesterday as gusts brought down power lines.

By early this morning, all but about 13-thousand in New Brunswick had their lights and heat back on.

Rain and flurries are forecast throughout most of the region today.

Winter storm warning in effect.

Issued at 9:30pm Jan 2, 10


tonight..snow at times heavy becoming mixed with periods of rain overnight. snowfall amount 15 to 25 cm. blowing snow this evening and after midnight. wind northeast 30 km/h gusting to 50 becoming north 40 gusting to 70 early this evening then northeast 60 gusting to 90 after midnight. temperature rising to plus 2 by morning.

sunday..periods of snow. snow at times mixed with rain in the morning. snowfall amount 2 to 4 cm. wind northeast 40 km/h diminishing to 20 in the afternoon. temperature falling to zero in the afternoon.

sunday night..flurries. amount 2 to 4 cm. wind north 20 km/h. low minus 1.

Happy New Year from 98.1 The Tide

Maritime Storm

Blowing snow has made for treacherous driving conditions across parts of the Maritimes.


There were reports that scores of cars had slipped into ditches across Prince Edward Island yesterday.

Powerful westerly winds gusted at more than 70 kilometres per hour in and around Charlottetown and Summerside.

On the Confederation Bridge, certain vehicles were temporarily restricted from crossing, including high-sided vehicles, automobiles towing trailers, tractor trailers and buses.

The deteriorating conditions eventually forced the closure of all government offices and agencies, including liquor stores.

Meanwhile, in southern New Brunswick, heavy wet snow blanketed the region, leaving many roads slippery.

Police reported a number of accidents in the Fredericton region.

With the temperatures dropping and the wind picking up, the wind chill was expected to drop to about -30 C.

New Brunswick's full fleet of 515 snowplows and graders was out on the roads.

Died from Swine Flu Virus

After spending nearly a month in intensive care, a 27 year old Quispamsis man has died from the swine flu virus. Doctors had treated him with the anti-flu drug Tamiflu no to avail. The province's Deputy Chief Medical Health Officer, Dr. Paul Van Buynder says the man had been suffering from a number of underlying medical conditions and its unlikely he had received an H-1-N-1 flu shot.

EnBridge Gas Is Denied Rate Increase

Residential and large customers of Enbridge Gas are feeling victorious. The company has been denied an interim increase on its delivery rate for natural gas by the Energy and Utilities Board. A day long oral hearing was held at the EUB office in City Hall Monday which heard from several companies and municipalities opposed to the hike that would have taken effect January,1st.



If approved delivery rates for residential customers would have risen by ten per cent and large corporate clients would have seen their delivery rates double.

Gas Prices Back Up

If filling up the tank is one of your last minute chores before shutting down for the holiday, get ready to dig deeper. The Energy and Utilities Board has released it's weekly price schedule which shows gasoline at a maximum total price of 98 cents. Most stations in St Stephen are selling a litre of self-serve for 95.9. Diesel has a maximum total price of $105.6 with most stations selling a litre for $103.6


Furnace oil has maxed out at 88.3 for a total price but the retail number comes in at 82.6 and the maximum total price for propane is $109.2.

Clean-Up Continues From Latest Storm

Charlotte County residents will be busy cleaning up after yesterdays snow storm . Environment Canada Meteorologist Mike Campbell tells Tide News, Fredericton is cleaning up just over 23cm's while Woodstock and area's north are reporting 25 and even 30cm's of snow on the ground. He says  here at home we recieved in-between 20 to 25 cms of snow.




In Moncton.....it was nothing but rain with 25mm's falling.

Groomer For ATV Club Approved

The Eastern Charlotte ATV club in Pennfield will be purchasing a new machine....At their monthly meeting Monday night the club had a unanimous vote to purchase a Groomer.


This will make the ATV club one of the first in this part of province to be running 12 months out of the year.

The club is asking anyone that is interested in attending there meeting to join them at the Royal Canadian legion in St George on the second Thursday of each month at 7:00pm

Slippery Driving and Walking

The roads are wet and icy this morning. That's why police are urging drivers to take it slow. If you're walking, you should be also take care because the sidewalks are icy with temperatures not expected to get much above the freezing mark today. Mike Campbell of Environment Canada tells Tide News snowfall warnings have been issued for St. Stephen , Grand Manan, Saint John, coastal and northern Charlotte County as well as Fredericton.


Campbell goes on to say they expect another five will fall before it ends with higher totals outside St John towards Fredericton.

Income Tax Reductions

If your trying to keep all your paper-work in order for tax time, here is something else to consider. As of January.1st, the province's tax brackets and non-refundable amounts for personal income tax will be indexed by two per cent. That means there are several scenario's which can save you money including a one-earner family earning $25,000 per year will pay no provincial income tax, and will save $219 next year or 100 per cent of the tax paid in 2008.




The Province says the four year plan for lower taxes will deliver $380 million dollars in savings over that time.

Victim Identified

RCMP have released the name of a young woman killed on the highway in Lorne on Monday.

22-year-old Christine Ouellette lost control of her vehicle and collided into on oncoming truck.
Ouellette was originally from Campbellton but was living in Moncton.
The investigation into the crash continues.

iPhone App

A lot of people will be finding new Apple iPhones and iPod Touch players under the tree Friday morning.

And for those lucky people who do -- you can now take along 98.1 The Tide with you thanks to leading edge technology.
We now have an app for the iPod Touch and iPhone which gives you instant access to our station and access our web site directly from the app.
Blackberry users aren’t being left out in the cold – a similar app for their phones is currently in the development stage.
Just go to thetide.ca and click on the Acadia iPhone - iPod button to download the fee app.