Santa has been spending a lot of time in Charlotte County this season, and the Courier publications have agreed to give him a hand.
Letters to Santa can be dropped off at the offices of St. Croix Printing and Publishing weekdays 8:30 to 5.
And now you can email your letters in to santa@stcroixcourier.ca
Merry Christmas
Monday, November 30, 2009
Monday, November 2, 2009
H1N1 clinic info
The St. Croix Courier website is being updated frequently to keep our readers informed about where the clinics are for the H1N1 immunization program.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Miller changes plea
The trial of Rodney Miller came to an end on Thursday morning with Miller changing his plea to guilty of first degree murder.
More details to follow in the Courier Weekend
More details to follow in the Courier Weekend
Thursday, September 3, 2009
St. Stephen strikes gold
On Wednesday, Sept. 2 they came from far and wide to celebrate local athletes who competed in the Canada Games. Read the story in the Weekend edition, heading to a newstand near you.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Coming up in the Weekend Edition
The August 14 Weekend edition of the Courier will soon be hitting the newstands, and some of the stories we are working on include an update on a double lung transplant and a report on this season's blueberry crop.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
A busy week
The past week has seen Courier reporters covering the International Festival, the Chocolate Festival, The City of Calais, Maine celebrating 200 years, and the Province of New Brunswick celebrating 225 year, with the biggest NB Day celebrations in McAdam.
While Kathy, John and Melissa have been busy with everything from cannon fire to fireworks, Barb has been busy covering Eastern Charlotte. Look for Barb's piece on Minister's Island in the August 11 edition of the Saint Croix Courier.
While Kathy, John and Melissa have been busy with everything from cannon fire to fireworks, Barb has been busy covering Eastern Charlotte. Look for Barb's piece on Minister's Island in the August 11 edition of the Saint Croix Courier.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Fan mail
Dear Chuck Brown,
In anticipation of my eighteenth birthday this coming week I stumbled upon your article about teenage satisfaction. I found the article to be quite offensive and very misinformed.
As a teenager from Ontario living on my own in New Brunswick for the summer I have many responsibilities to tend to. From working, to paying rent, to paying my phone bill as well as buying groceries and necessities I am a very active member of society.
During the school year most of the teens I know are hard-pressed juggling schoolwork, homework, a part time job, a social life and in several cases a car of their own. I'd also like to address your "FOR PARENTS.../FOR TEENS..." section of the article. In some cases parents actually don't allow their teen to get a job because they fear it will affect their focus on school and the future. For teens unemployment is no reason to party, how could one afford alcohol, or drugs or the cover charge at their favourite band's concerts with no money to do so? For teens university is also a large financial burden and no joke as most of us will be getting a student loan and aren't reliant on our parents to pay our way through. As a teen I have lots to worry about, but it is all worth is because I can take a step back and see how much I and my fellow teenagers have matured and progressed through the years on our way to adulthood.
At 11 pm when when I'm off a long night at work, I chug a Red Bull, even though it tastes like crap, so that i can stay up and finish my fifteen page essay due the next morning. When i am done that and I can finally curl up under the sheets, I recap my day and I can smile, because I have a satisfying life, and I'm loving every moment of it.
Mitch Kacprzak
And here is the offending column...
Canadian teens can get satisfaction, survey says
Chuck Brown
Out There
Canadians are a happy, satisfied people and the happiest among us, enjoying the highest quality or life and the lowest levels of stress are, according to Statistics Canada, my dogs. Really, they don’t have a care in the world. No taxes, no bills. All they really have to do is lick stuff and try very hard to remember a few basic etiquette rules, mostly surrounding when and where it is appropriate to go potty.
My dogs are followed closely on the satisfaction metre by teenagers, who have basically the same responsibilities as my dogs, except that teenagers are also asked, occasionally, to make their bed. They politely decline by saying something diplomatic like, “Yeah whatever.”
Yes in a recent survey, Canadians aged 12-to-19 reported the highest rate of life satisfaction. Ranking much lower are 35-to-54-year-old Canadians. An uninformed, cynical, cursory explanation of these results might be that the 35-to-54-year-olds are less satisfied with their lives because they work long hours in jobs they never imagined themselves doing, spending most of what should be the best years of their lives being drained of their spirit and creativity because they can’t afford to pursue a career they might actually find rewarding because they have mortgage payments to meet, bills to pay and, of course, teenagers. The 35-to-54-year-olds, an outsider with no real knowledge of the intricacies of this survey might deduce, probably come home from an average work day exhausted and find their 12-to-19-year-old kids kicked back on the couch watching TV while also texting, Facebooking or playing Nintendo DS, lifting their heads just long enough to ask, “What’s for dinner?”
The answer, no matter what it is, will be met with, “Awww. That sucks.”
Someone who hasn’t really studied this survey might think that after dinner the average 35-to-54-year-old must either chauffeur a 12-to-19-year-old or two around town for various sporting or social activities before returning home to quickly clean up the dinner mess before heading back out to collect those 12-to-19-year-olds and bring them home for the nightly fight over bed time. This fight starts at birth and ends when the teenager starts staying up later than the 35-to-54-year-old and decides on his or her own bedtime.
The average 35-to-54-year-old can’t really understand why bed time is even an issue as he loves to collapse under the sheets and turn on his favourite TV show, at least he thinks it’s his favourite but he’s not sure because he’s usually asleep before the opening credits are over while the 12-to-19-year-olds of the house stay awake well into the night chatting with friends on their laptops or playing some really cool online multi-person role playing game due to the fact they drink Monster or Amp or Red Bull or some other energy drink that the 35-to-54-year-olds avoid due to the fact they taste like carbonated anti-freeze with a hint of citrus.
Yes these are just a few totally uninformed observations as to why teens might find life more satisfying than their parents. But there are other, more scientific reasons.
FOR PARENTS… unemployment is one of the most frightening prospects imaginable.
FOR TEENS … unemployment is a great reason to party, right up there with breaking off a relationship, getting suspended from school and, “it’s Tuesday.”
FOR PARENTS… a car is expensive to buy, maintain, insure and fill with fuel.
FOR TEENS… a car is unfairly only available when mom or dad don’t have it for their stupid jobs.
FOR PARENTS… university is a major financial burden but one they are willing to tackle for the betterment of their children.
FOR TEENS… university is well worth the price because it offers a chance to experiment with many things… and we’re not just talking about broomball.
FOR PARENTS… this will all be worthwhile when they see their former teens graduate, land a job, move out and, most importantly from a revenge standpoint, have kids of their own.
FOR TEENS… Yeah. Whatever.
In anticipation of my eighteenth birthday this coming week I stumbled upon your article about teenage satisfaction. I found the article to be quite offensive and very misinformed.
As a teenager from Ontario living on my own in New Brunswick for the summer I have many responsibilities to tend to. From working, to paying rent, to paying my phone bill as well as buying groceries and necessities I am a very active member of society.
During the school year most of the teens I know are hard-pressed juggling schoolwork, homework, a part time job, a social life and in several cases a car of their own. I'd also like to address your "FOR PARENTS.../FOR TEENS..." section of the article. In some cases parents actually don't allow their teen to get a job because they fear it will affect their focus on school and the future. For teens unemployment is no reason to party, how could one afford alcohol, or drugs or the cover charge at their favourite band's concerts with no money to do so? For teens university is also a large financial burden and no joke as most of us will be getting a student loan and aren't reliant on our parents to pay our way through. As a teen I have lots to worry about, but it is all worth is because I can take a step back and see how much I and my fellow teenagers have matured and progressed through the years on our way to adulthood.
At 11 pm when when I'm off a long night at work, I chug a Red Bull, even though it tastes like crap, so that i can stay up and finish my fifteen page essay due the next morning. When i am done that and I can finally curl up under the sheets, I recap my day and I can smile, because I have a satisfying life, and I'm loving every moment of it.
Mitch Kacprzak
And here is the offending column...
Canadian teens can get satisfaction, survey says
Chuck Brown
Out There
Canadians are a happy, satisfied people and the happiest among us, enjoying the highest quality or life and the lowest levels of stress are, according to Statistics Canada, my dogs. Really, they don’t have a care in the world. No taxes, no bills. All they really have to do is lick stuff and try very hard to remember a few basic etiquette rules, mostly surrounding when and where it is appropriate to go potty.
My dogs are followed closely on the satisfaction metre by teenagers, who have basically the same responsibilities as my dogs, except that teenagers are also asked, occasionally, to make their bed. They politely decline by saying something diplomatic like, “Yeah whatever.”
Yes in a recent survey, Canadians aged 12-to-19 reported the highest rate of life satisfaction. Ranking much lower are 35-to-54-year-old Canadians. An uninformed, cynical, cursory explanation of these results might be that the 35-to-54-year-olds are less satisfied with their lives because they work long hours in jobs they never imagined themselves doing, spending most of what should be the best years of their lives being drained of their spirit and creativity because they can’t afford to pursue a career they might actually find rewarding because they have mortgage payments to meet, bills to pay and, of course, teenagers. The 35-to-54-year-olds, an outsider with no real knowledge of the intricacies of this survey might deduce, probably come home from an average work day exhausted and find their 12-to-19-year-old kids kicked back on the couch watching TV while also texting, Facebooking or playing Nintendo DS, lifting their heads just long enough to ask, “What’s for dinner?”
The answer, no matter what it is, will be met with, “Awww. That sucks.”
Someone who hasn’t really studied this survey might think that after dinner the average 35-to-54-year-old must either chauffeur a 12-to-19-year-old or two around town for various sporting or social activities before returning home to quickly clean up the dinner mess before heading back out to collect those 12-to-19-year-olds and bring them home for the nightly fight over bed time. This fight starts at birth and ends when the teenager starts staying up later than the 35-to-54-year-old and decides on his or her own bedtime.
The average 35-to-54-year-old can’t really understand why bed time is even an issue as he loves to collapse under the sheets and turn on his favourite TV show, at least he thinks it’s his favourite but he’s not sure because he’s usually asleep before the opening credits are over while the 12-to-19-year-olds of the house stay awake well into the night chatting with friends on their laptops or playing some really cool online multi-person role playing game due to the fact they drink Monster or Amp or Red Bull or some other energy drink that the 35-to-54-year-olds avoid due to the fact they taste like carbonated anti-freeze with a hint of citrus.
Yes these are just a few totally uninformed observations as to why teens might find life more satisfying than their parents. But there are other, more scientific reasons.
FOR PARENTS… unemployment is one of the most frightening prospects imaginable.
FOR TEENS … unemployment is a great reason to party, right up there with breaking off a relationship, getting suspended from school and, “it’s Tuesday.”
FOR PARENTS… a car is expensive to buy, maintain, insure and fill with fuel.
FOR TEENS… a car is unfairly only available when mom or dad don’t have it for their stupid jobs.
FOR PARENTS… university is a major financial burden but one they are willing to tackle for the betterment of their children.
FOR TEENS… university is well worth the price because it offers a chance to experiment with many things… and we’re not just talking about broomball.
FOR PARENTS… this will all be worthwhile when they see their former teens graduate, land a job, move out and, most importantly from a revenge standpoint, have kids of their own.
FOR TEENS… Yeah. Whatever.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Friday, June 12, 2009
Moosehead will unveil new brand at Moncton Concert
Moosehead Light Lime to Share the Stage with Bon Jovi
Moncton, N.B. --- June 12, 2009 ---Andrew Oland, President of Moosehead Breweries chose a Moncton audience to announce his company’s plans for a new summer brew. Speaking at a breakfast meeting of theConseil économique du Nouveau-Brunswickin Moncton this morning, Oland said Moosehead will give Bon Jovi concert goers the first taste of Moose Light Lime.
Oland was in Moncton to encourage members of the local business community to take advantage of Saint John’s growth and the economic benefits it is bringing to the entire province. He took the opportunity to share his company’s news with the Moncton audience. “I am delighted to be in Moncton to announce two important elements of our summer program,” said Oland. “It seemed appropriate to make this announcement while speaking about the benefits of provincial cooperation and the need for the business community to capitalize on regional strengths.”
Olandsaid Moosehead Light Lime will capitalize on the newest taste trend and offer consumers a refreshing splash of lime in one of the company’s best selling brands: Moosehead Light.
“We believe Maritimers will welcome our Moosehead Light with a twist and quickly adopt it as their drink of choice this summer,” says Oland. “The launch of this new brand demonstrates our ability to quickly respond to consumer demand and stay ahead of industry trends.”
Moosehead Light Lime will be available in New Brunswick and PEI in 12-pack bottles until September.
Oland also announced to the Conseil économique that Moosehead has once again secured the beer pouring rights to Moncton’s two big concerts this summer; Bon Jovi and ACDC.
“Moncton continues to host world-class acts at Magnetic Hill and we are thrilled to once again be part of the excitement,” says Oland. Moosehead products will be served at both the Bon Jovi and ACDC concerts this summer. “These concerts are a huge benefit to the economy, culture and reputation of our region and Moosehead is a great fit with these exciting events,” says Oland.
Oland was invited to present to the Conseil économique on the growth drivers in Saint John and what it means for the entire province. He challenged the audience to take a provincial view and seek ways to be part of the growth, energy hub and other exciting initiatives in the Saint John area.
“We are a small province that cannot afford to support competition between our cities and regions,” says Oland. “The growth in Saint John brings tremendous opportunity for the entire province including new contracts, jobs and increased tax revenue. The challenge to you and the entire business community in the province is to find a way to be part of it. We are stronger when we work together and learn from each other.”
Moosehead Breweries Limited traces its roots to 1867, making it Canada's oldest, independent brewery. The family-owned company is the only locally owned major brewery in Atlantic Canada and the last national brewer still owned by Canadians. Moosehead has annual revenues in excess of $180 million and sells its beer throughout Canada, the United States and in 15 countries around the world.
Andrew Olandis President of Moosehead Breweries Limited. He is the sixth generation member of his family to lead the Oland brewing business started by his great-great-great grandmother Susannah Oland in 1867. He joined Moosehead in 1992 and has held a number of increasingly senior positions with the company including Sales Manager for Nova Scotia, Sales Director for New Brunswick, Alpine Lager Marketing Director, and President of Moosehead Quebec. He was appointed President on April 1, 2008.
Friday, June 5, 2009
WHO HAS THE BIGGEST WORLD'S BIGGEST YARD SALE?
Wow. Two World's Largest Yard Sales are happening on Saturday in two different communities right here in our backyard.
The Boat School in Eastport and The Tide 98.1 are both holding The World's Largest Garage Sale this weekend. We may require a measurement.
FROM THE BOAT SCHOOL IN EASTPORT...
This is a reminder to everyone that our second “World’s Largest Indoor Yard Sale” of the season is this weekend (tomorrow), Saturday, June 6, here at The Boat School.
We are still looking for people to bake items for the Friends of the Boat School Bake Table and / or donate items for the sale table.
We also have booth space still available if you or your organization have items you would like to sell.
Doors Open at 7AM to 8AM for the Early Birds. There is charge of $10.00 for Early Birds. This is how Friends raises money for the non-profit Friends of The Boat School.
From 8 AM to 1PM the sale is free and open to the public.
Most of our vendors sell out each show. If you have items to donate, if you have items that you want picked-up, if you want a booth, if you want to bake for the bake table, please call 207-853-2518.
The Bake Table will once again be the work of some our best confection and dessert bakers in the region. Just in time for National Donut Day we will have Jackie Davis Donuts. Ronnie Voisine is making Cream Puffs and my 90 year old mother is baking Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. Dean Pike has promised to bake a triple batch of his Butterscotch Bars and Meg McGarvey is making her famous Cinnamon Bread that makes the best French Toast in the world for Sunday morning. Alum Paul Morin is making Peanut Butter Fudge. We would love to have you bake for us if you have the time.
Make sure you tell your friends, neighbors and family. I hope to see you here Saturday morning. I will be here at about 5:30AM on Saturday waiting for you.
Cheers,
John Miller
FROM THE TIDE 98.1
98.1 The Tide and Landmark events presents the worlds largest garage sale coming to the Border Arena on Saturday, June 6th starting at 9am. Turn your clutter into cash and join the biggest contingent of vendors to ever hit the border town. To book your space for the sale, call 465-8416 or pick up your registration form at our Tide studio’s.
The Boat School in Eastport and The Tide 98.1 are both holding The World's Largest Garage Sale this weekend. We may require a measurement.
FROM THE BOAT SCHOOL IN EASTPORT...
This is a reminder to everyone that our second “World’s Largest Indoor Yard Sale” of the season is this weekend (tomorrow), Saturday, June 6, here at The Boat School.
We are still looking for people to bake items for the Friends of the Boat School Bake Table and / or donate items for the sale table.
We also have booth space still available if you or your organization have items you would like to sell.
Doors Open at 7AM to 8AM for the Early Birds. There is charge of $10.00 for Early Birds. This is how Friends raises money for the non-profit Friends of The Boat School.
From 8 AM to 1PM the sale is free and open to the public.
Most of our vendors sell out each show. If you have items to donate, if you have items that you want picked-up, if you want a booth, if you want to bake for the bake table, please call 207-853-2518.
The Bake Table will once again be the work of some our best confection and dessert bakers in the region. Just in time for National Donut Day we will have Jackie Davis Donuts. Ronnie Voisine is making Cream Puffs and my 90 year old mother is baking Oatmeal Raisin Cookies. Dean Pike has promised to bake a triple batch of his Butterscotch Bars and Meg McGarvey is making her famous Cinnamon Bread that makes the best French Toast in the world for Sunday morning. Alum Paul Morin is making Peanut Butter Fudge. We would love to have you bake for us if you have the time.
Make sure you tell your friends, neighbors and family. I hope to see you here Saturday morning. I will be here at about 5:30AM on Saturday waiting for you.
Cheers,
John Miller
FROM THE TIDE 98.1
98.1 The Tide and Landmark events presents the worlds largest garage sale coming to the Border Arena on Saturday, June 6th starting at 9am. Turn your clutter into cash and join the biggest contingent of vendors to ever hit the border town. To book your space for the sale, call 465-8416 or pick up your registration form at our Tide studio’s.
Friday, May 29, 2009
The Other Hendrik Slegtenhorst
St. Stephen's outgoing CAO is also an accomplished poet.
http://www.combats-magazine.org/spip.php?article59
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Breaking News - Slegtenhorst resigns
COURIER EXCLUSIVE
ST. STEPHEN CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER HENDRIK SLEGTENHORST HAS TENDERED HIS RESIGNATION
Mayor Jed Purcell confirms that Slegtenhorst has resigned and his last day is June 26.
For details see the Courier Weekend.
ST. STEPHEN CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER HENDRIK SLEGTENHORST HAS TENDERED HIS RESIGNATION
Mayor Jed Purcell confirms that Slegtenhorst has resigned and his last day is June 26.
For details see the Courier Weekend.
St. Stephen's Had Tapley has questions about the civic centre...
"You can't go by the Courier, Had, you know that."
– HENDRIK SLEGTENHORST
St. Stephen CAO and Courier Columnist
"Where the shouting should go to, if your neighbours are concerned, ought to be the civic centre board."
– HENDRIK SLEGTENHORST
St. Stephen CAO and member of the Civic Centre Board of Directors
ST. STEPHEN COUNCIL MEMBERS/OFFICIALS ON THE CIVIC CENTRE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Hendrik Slegtenhorst
Mayor Jed Purcell
Gavin Toumishey
Monday, May 25, 2009
Friday, May 22, 2009
MISSING PERSON - GRAND MANAN
RCMP seek public’s help to locate missing man, Grand Manan, N.B.
2009/5/22
Grand Manan RCMP are asking for the public’s assistance to locate a man who has been missing since the beginning of the month.
On May 1, 2009, 52-year old Ritchie Wilson of Seal Cove left Grand Manan in his silver 2007 Nissan X-Terra with NB license plate GSC159. Mr. Wilson made some preparations at home prior to leaving that were consistent with leaving for a trip, but did not tell his family on where he was going. On May 15, Mr. Wilson was reported missing by his family. At this point neither police nor his family have been able to locate him.
Foul play is not suspected but Mr. Wilson’s family is eager to locate him. Mr Wilson is described as 6 feet tall and 275 pounds with light brown hair. The RCMP is asking anyone with information on Mr. Wilson’s whereabouts to contact them at (506)755-1130.
Cpl. Andy Cook
Grand Manan RCMP
(506)755-1130
YOUR LIFE IS ABOUT TO CHANGE FOREVER
PUBLIC NOTICE
JUNCTION OF
ROUTE 170, ROUTE 3, and KING STREET
TOWN OF ST. STEPHEN
TRAFFIC PATTERN CHANGE
The Department of Transportation would like to advise the traveling public that a traffic pattern change will occur at the rotary located at the junction of Route 3, Route 170, and King Street in the town of St. Stephen. All vehicles entering the rotary will be required to yield to traffic flowing within the rotary. These changes will take place on May 27th, 2009. This change is necessary to standardize traffic flow at this intersection. New signage to indicate the traffic pattern changes will be in place.
The department apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. The department reminds motorists to reduce speeds and drive safely.
District Transportation Engineer
District 04 – Saint John
JUNCTION OF
ROUTE 170, ROUTE 3, and KING STREET
TOWN OF ST. STEPHEN
TRAFFIC PATTERN CHANGE
The Department of Transportation would like to advise the traveling public that a traffic pattern change will occur at the rotary located at the junction of Route 3, Route 170, and King Street in the town of St. Stephen. All vehicles entering the rotary will be required to yield to traffic flowing within the rotary. These changes will take place on May 27th, 2009. This change is necessary to standardize traffic flow at this intersection. New signage to indicate the traffic pattern changes will be in place.
The department apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause. The department reminds motorists to reduce speeds and drive safely.
District Transportation Engineer
District 04 – Saint John
Thursday, May 21, 2009
RUGBY PLAYOFF GAME IS AT 1 P.M. SATURDAY
NOTE: After the Weekend sports went to press we learned Saturday’s rugby playoff game at St. Stephen High School will be played at 1 p.m., not 2:30 p.m.
In the Courier Weekend, May 22, 2009
NEWS
They made it happen - Civic centre fundraisers celebrate $3.5 million goal, name facility after Garcelon family
Critics slam civic centre plans
LNG a dumb investment, says energy expert
Thompson visits troops in Afghanistan
Agent Orange protesters picket Thompson’s office
Council pay raises pass another hurdle
Julian Austin concert shuffled to Aquarius
SPORTS
GIRLS RUGBY: Spartans charge into girls rugby playoffs
Arena will carry the Quartermain family name
BOYS RUGBY: Fundy boys fighting for third
RUGBY: Charlotte County Bulldogs gear up for summer rugby
RACING: Local drivers back on track at Speedway 660
BOYS RUGBY: Algonquins version 2.0 make big gains
SOCCER: Charlotte County Schooners remain undefeated in pre-season
BASEBALL: Tryouts open to Charlotte County players
Friday, May 15, 2009
Thursday, May 14, 2009
UPDATE
Bail hearing set for Thursday afternoon for four charged with human smuggling
(Read the full report in the Courier Weekend, going to press Thursday afternoon)
By KATHY BOCKUS
kathy@stcroixcourier.ca
ST. STEPHEN – Bail hearings were scheduled for Thursday afternoon, May 14, for four individuals arrested and charged with conspiring to smuggle people across the border from Canada into the United States.
Appearing in St. Stephen Provincial Court and charged Thursday were Savita Singh-Murray, 43, of St. Stephen; Vaughn McCluskey, 71, formerly of McAdam, now of Fredericton; Mohammend Habib-Yusuf, 53, and Ravindra Hariprasad, 36, both of Ontario.
Singh-Murray and McCluskey were arrested Wednesday in New Brunswick, while the other two individuals were arrested in Scarborough, Ont.
If convicted on a first offence basis, the accused face a maximum of 10 years in prison and fine of up to $500,000. More significant penalties are handed out for second offences.
(Read the full report in the Courier Weekend, going to press Thursday afternoon)
By KATHY BOCKUS
kathy@stcroixcourier.ca
ST. STEPHEN – Bail hearings were scheduled for Thursday afternoon, May 14, for four individuals arrested and charged with conspiring to smuggle people across the border from Canada into the United States.
Appearing in St. Stephen Provincial Court and charged Thursday were Savita Singh-Murray, 43, of St. Stephen; Vaughn McCluskey, 71, formerly of McAdam, now of Fredericton; Mohammend Habib-Yusuf, 53, and Ravindra Hariprasad, 36, both of Ontario.
Singh-Murray and McCluskey were arrested Wednesday in New Brunswick, while the other two individuals were arrested in Scarborough, Ont.
If convicted on a first offence basis, the accused face a maximum of 10 years in prison and fine of up to $500,000. More significant penalties are handed out for second offences.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
St. Stephen woman arrested on human smuggling charge
Four people charged in human smuggling ring, Fredericton, N.B.
FOR DETAILS FROM COURT, SEE THE COURIER WEEKEND, MAY 15
2009/5/13
http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/nb/news-nouvelles/releases-communiques/May1309_142458-eng.htm
Human smuggling involves the illegal movement of persons across international borders, with their consent, in exchange for a sum of money. At this point of the investigation the RCMP have intercepted two migrants from Guyana this group was attempting to smuggle into the United States. However, it is believed that more will be revealed as the RCMP continues its investigation.
Savita Singh, 43, of St. Stephen and Vaughn McLuskey, 71, of Fredericton were arrested in New Brunswick while Ontario residents Mohammed Habib-Yusef, 53, and Ravindra Hariprasad, 36, were arrested in Scarborough, ON. All four face charges of criminal conspiracy to violate immigration laws, and will appear in court in St. Stephen, N.B. on May 14.
“Human smuggling is often connected to other serious crimes, such as drug smuggling and money laundering,” said I&P investigator Sgt. Wesley Blair.
“Since organized crime groups involved in human smuggling are profit-driven, they do not often distinguish between migrants who are looking for a better way of life and migrants who are dangerous criminals.”
Anyone who suspects human smuggling activity in their community can provide information by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, New Brunswick’s Coastal Watch program at 1-800-665-6663 or contacting their local RCMP or police detachment.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Mayors of St. Stephen
Veterans Affairs Minister Greg Thompson, left, and Premier Shawn Graham, with former St. Stephen mayors Bob Brown and Allan Gillmor and current mayor Jed Purcell.Inspired by...?
FREE STUFF!
Enbridge Gas is giving away free shopping bags...
As a company that provides the cleanest burning fossil fuel, Enbridge Gas New Brunswick supports environmental changes in our communities. Therefore, in an effort to limit the usage of plastic bags and their impact on the environment, we would like to do our part by helping to reduce the billions of plastic bags that are used each year.
“We all have a role to play in reducing our impact on the environment,” says Dave Charleson, General Manager of Enbridge Gas New Brunswick. “As one of the leaders in the most environmentally friendly energy source in New Brunswick, we are pleased to offer our customers a ‘green’ alternative to plastic.”
For that reason, if you live in one of the nine communities, (Fredericton, Oromocto, Saint John, St. George, St. Stephen, Moncton, Riverview, Dieppe and Sackville) and would like one of the environmentally friendly bags, simply fill out the form on the website, http://naturalgasnb.web4.hubspot.com/enviro-bag-giveaway and each household will be mailed a reusable bag while supplies last.
As a company that provides the cleanest burning fossil fuel, Enbridge Gas New Brunswick supports environmental changes in our communities. Therefore, in an effort to limit the usage of plastic bags and their impact on the environment, we would like to do our part by helping to reduce the billions of plastic bags that are used each year.
“We all have a role to play in reducing our impact on the environment,” says Dave Charleson, General Manager of Enbridge Gas New Brunswick. “As one of the leaders in the most environmentally friendly energy source in New Brunswick, we are pleased to offer our customers a ‘green’ alternative to plastic.”
For that reason, if you live in one of the nine communities, (Fredericton, Oromocto, Saint John, St. George, St. Stephen, Moncton, Riverview, Dieppe and Sackville) and would like one of the environmentally friendly bags, simply fill out the form on the website, http://naturalgasnb.web4.hubspot.com/enviro-bag-giveaway and each household will be mailed a reusable bag while supplies last.
In the Saint Croix Courier, May 12, 2009
Kathy Bockus/Courier
A ground breaking ceremony is expected this August for the Charlotte County Civic Centre on Budd Avenue following an announcement Tuesday morning of federal and provincial funding for the $18-million complex. From left is project chair Richard Fulton, Minister of Veterans Affairs Greg Thompson, Premier Shawn Graham and St. Stephen Mayor Jed Purcell.To subscribe call 466-3220
Premier, feds deliver civic centre funds
Ganong Park is open, SCEP has a new chair
Thompson elected to village council
Mother’s Day fire destroys home
FEATURE: A common thread – Through her Cottage Craft business, Grace Helen Mowat employed hundreds of Charlotte County women
Teamwork makes Relay for Life a success
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
We're worth it, councillor says in defence of huge pay raise
By KATHY BOCKUS
kathy@stcroixcourier.ca
ST. STEPHEN – Town councillor Robert Tinker doesn’t think a salary increase for members of council is unreasonable considering all the time and effort he and others put into committee work and meetings.
“It’s fair and reasonable,” he said of the increase that would see Mayor Jed Purcell receive a raise of 35 per cent; Deputy Mayor Jim Maxwell would get an increase of 36 per cent and councillors would see their stipends rise 27 per cent.
The current bylaw allows for a cost of living increase of up to three per cent based on the Consumer Price Index.
But council has given first reading to a bylaw that would allow salaries paid to elected members of council to increase to become more in line with other “Class C” municipalities in New Brunswick.
If the amendment passes after its third reading, Mayor Jed Purcell’s salary will increase to $11,000 from the $8,134 paid to the position in 2008.
The salary paid to the deputy mayor, a position Jim Maxwell has occupied since the election in May 2008, would increase to $6,500 from $4,772 and councillors would see an increase to $5,500 from the $4,338 paid in 2008.
Council members are paid an annual stipend in two instalments.
But former town treasurer Ted Moore wants to know where the recommendation on salaries went that he, Jackie Bateman and Charles Monaghan presented to council after the three were appointed as a special committee assigned to look into salary increases.
“We came forward with a recommendation that went to council,” said Moore. “It was a recommendation for a raise, but nowhere near as much as they are asking for now.”
Moore questioned why the committee was struck and why he and the members wasted their time reviewing salaries and making recommendations.
“I’d like to know what happened to our recommendation. It was supposed to go to the finance committee,” he said.
“Why should people bother to sit on committees if council doesn’t even take into consideration what is being recommended?”
Moore said he thinks his committee’s recommendation has been forgotten.
“Somebody made a motion to be tabled and have the new council look at it. What they should have done was have the old council look at it before the new council was voted in,” said Moore.
Tinker said he doesn’t think the general public realizes the amount of time and effort that goes into being a member of town council.
He said he spends a good hour and a half a day just on e-mails alone.
“Through careful strategic planning and by being politically astute, our team was able to bring to our community a new plan for $250,000 in street work per year over a 25-year period. So that’s a good, long term local plan,” he said.
“In addition, we secured $1.25 million for King Street reconstruction and we secured over $4 million through the Building Canada Fund for additional street work.
“That $5,500 in a salary investment had a return of $5.5 million for the community. I think that’s good value,” said Tinker.
kathy@stcroixcourier.ca
ST. STEPHEN – Town councillor Robert Tinker doesn’t think a salary increase for members of council is unreasonable considering all the time and effort he and others put into committee work and meetings.
“It’s fair and reasonable,” he said of the increase that would see Mayor Jed Purcell receive a raise of 35 per cent; Deputy Mayor Jim Maxwell would get an increase of 36 per cent and councillors would see their stipends rise 27 per cent.
The current bylaw allows for a cost of living increase of up to three per cent based on the Consumer Price Index.
But council has given first reading to a bylaw that would allow salaries paid to elected members of council to increase to become more in line with other “Class C” municipalities in New Brunswick.
If the amendment passes after its third reading, Mayor Jed Purcell’s salary will increase to $11,000 from the $8,134 paid to the position in 2008.
The salary paid to the deputy mayor, a position Jim Maxwell has occupied since the election in May 2008, would increase to $6,500 from $4,772 and councillors would see an increase to $5,500 from the $4,338 paid in 2008.
Council members are paid an annual stipend in two instalments.
But former town treasurer Ted Moore wants to know where the recommendation on salaries went that he, Jackie Bateman and Charles Monaghan presented to council after the three were appointed as a special committee assigned to look into salary increases.
“We came forward with a recommendation that went to council,” said Moore. “It was a recommendation for a raise, but nowhere near as much as they are asking for now.”
Moore questioned why the committee was struck and why he and the members wasted their time reviewing salaries and making recommendations.
“I’d like to know what happened to our recommendation. It was supposed to go to the finance committee,” he said.
“Why should people bother to sit on committees if council doesn’t even take into consideration what is being recommended?”
Moore said he thinks his committee’s recommendation has been forgotten.
“Somebody made a motion to be tabled and have the new council look at it. What they should have done was have the old council look at it before the new council was voted in,” said Moore.
Tinker said he doesn’t think the general public realizes the amount of time and effort that goes into being a member of town council.
He said he spends a good hour and a half a day just on e-mails alone.
“Through careful strategic planning and by being politically astute, our team was able to bring to our community a new plan for $250,000 in street work per year over a 25-year period. So that’s a good, long term local plan,” he said.
“In addition, we secured $1.25 million for King Street reconstruction and we secured over $4 million through the Building Canada Fund for additional street work.
“That $5,500 in a salary investment had a return of $5.5 million for the community. I think that’s good value,” said Tinker.
Premier visits St. Stephen
From left, Fisheries Minister Rick Doucet, Maria Kulcher, Premier Shawn Graham, Richard Fulton, Dianne Lombard.
Premier Shawn Graham was in St. Stephen on Tuesday, May 5. He toured the Chocolate Museum, attended a Liberal dinner and met protesters who questioned him on nursing home worker wages and dialysis services in Charlotte County.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
In the Saint Croix Courier, Tuesday, May 5
Suzuki visits Cooke aquaculture sites
St. Andrews firefighters can’t take ambulance calls
Councillor defends huge pay raise
Council backs off renaming after Boundary Street residents complain
Court date set on fraud charges
Border agents practice safe inspections
St. George students break out in song for Music Monday
Home remedy lands man in court
District 10 educators earn Premier’s Award
New councillors sworn in
SPORTS
Welcome to Binney's Boot Camp
St. Andrews firefighters can’t take ambulance calls
Councillor defends huge pay raise
Council backs off renaming after Boundary Street residents complain
Court date set on fraud charges
Border agents practice safe inspections
St. George students break out in song for Music Monday
Home remedy lands man in court
District 10 educators earn Premier’s Award
New councillors sworn in
SPORTS
Welcome to Binney's Boot Camp
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Saturday, April 18, 2009
SPARTANS WIN ST. STEPHEN INVITATIONAL
ST. STEPHEN – The St. Stephen Lady Spartans won their own tournament Saturday, defeating Rothesay Netherwood School in two straight games in the final.
The Spartans came back from 11 points down in game one of the final and never looked back.
For more, see the Courier, Tuesday, April 21.
Monday, April 13, 2009
Hache questioned by blogger
Environment Minister Roland Hache speaks with Tim Foulkes, of the Bayside Preservation Committee, and blogger Charles Leblanc about Wednesday's public meeting in St. Andrews.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
JV Spartans take on Harbour View
Abbi Wilt returns a serve for the JV Spartans on April 9. For more, see Tuesday's Courier.
Gas leak report empties dorms
Monday, April 6, 2009
Breast Cancer fundraiser marred by cheating Ganong
I thought last week's Dooly's fundraiser for breast cancer was going great as members of the community like myself, some radio personalities and others took their turns behind the bar serving up drinks and donating all tips raised to cancer research.
Sadly the festivities were marred Sunday when "celebrity" bartender Nick Ganong cheated his way to becoming the top fundraiser.
After I obliterated amateur drink slingers like The Tide's Mark Downey ($58) and Bill and Tom - WQDY's undynamic duo of spilly servers ("I don't know how much we raised but you killed us, Chuck") I figured I had the top fundraiser title in the bag with my $189 raised on a slow Friday evening.
But with my total as a target, Ganong waited until his shift was almost over before begging patrons to empty their pockets to put him over the top. I wasn't there but witnesses tell me it was shameless. His unaudited total was in the $200 range but I bet his Foxy Ladies and Kinky Pinkies were way less delicious than mine.
We'll have more on this breaking news as it develops.
- Chuck
Monday, March 30, 2009
IDOL RETURNS
Downeast Idol host and producer Anthony Enman, left, with contestant David Humphreys during last summer's Charlotte County's Got Talent competition.Popular competition will raise funds for high school theatre
ST. STEPHEN –Downeast Idol is back.
The popular singing competition returns for to St. Stephen for a third season, running for six weeks starting Wednesday, April 29.
Auditions for Idol are Sunday, April 19 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at St. Stephen High School.
The competition is open to residents from St. Stephen, St. George, St. Andrews, Saint John and Calais. Only those 15 years of age and over are eligible to audition. Applications are available via e-mail, enmaprod@gmail.com or by contacting producer Anthony Enman at (506) 650-3113. If you can’t make the audition but still want to try out, contact Enman.
Up to 12 contestants will be chosen to compete in the six-week competition.
Unlike previous years, singers can audition with an instrument.
The show will run Wednesday, April 29, Wednesday, May 6, Monday, May 11, Wednesday, May 20, Wednesday, May 27 and the finale will be on Tuesday June 2.
Admission is $5 per person or an Idol Pass will be available for all shows.
Downeast Idol was created in the summer of 2006 to raise funds for the erection of the Charlotte County Civic Centre in St. Stephen. Since then organizers have added some great new ideas, and have changed their charity for donation. The competition is now raising money for the Save Our Theatre Campaign to refurbish the St. Stephen High School theatre and replace its lighting system.
Last year Enman produced Charlotte County’s Got Talent, won by singer/guitarist Nick Gay of Utopia. He said the show is going back to its idol format due to popular demand.
BREAKING NEWS
Deer Island teacher Jude O'Reilly has pleaded guilty Monday to a charge of indecent exposure over the Internet. Our reporter was in court and has all the details in Tuesdays Saint Croix Courier.
HARLEY WINNER
Congratulations to Bernie Mersereau, Lorneville, on winning the 2009 Harley Davidson Bike at the Old Town Tavern draw on Saturday night! This was the 10th Annual Harley Draw with proceeds going to Fundy Region Transition House.
- From Carole McKenzie
Friday, March 27, 2009
WHAT WE'RE WORKING ON
Tuesday, March 31
* Another candidate wants Tony Huntjens' job. Find out who.
* Get the details from Sarah Russell's bail hearing
* Southern Hockey League champion will be crowned Saturday or Sunday
* Another candidate wants Tony Huntjens' job. Find out who.
* Get the details from Sarah Russell's bail hearing
* Southern Hockey League champion will be crowned Saturday or Sunday
BREAKING NEWS -- Russell gets bail
FRIDAY MARCH 27
ST. ANDREWS – A 19-year-old Moores Mills woman charged with manslaughter by criminal negligence and accessory after the fact to murder in connection with the death of her newborn son has been released on bail.
The court ordered that evidence presented at the bail hearing this week cannot be published - only the outcome. She was released from custody Friday afternoon and left the Court of Queens Bench in St. Andrews with her father.
Mr. Justice Raymond French heard evidence presented by Sarah Marie Russell’s lawyer, Randy Wilson, and Crown prosecutors Jim McAvity and Randy DiPaolo on Wednesday and Thursday, March 25 and 26.
Russell is also charged with disposing of the body of a dead child in an attempt to conceal its birth. She is due back in Provincial Court on April 20 when it will be decided if and when she will have a preliminary hearing into the first two charges. At that time she will also elect her mode of trial on the disposing of a dead body charge.
Russell and her boyfriend, Rodney Miller, 27, were arrested Jan. 29 and have been in custody since.
Miller is charged with first-degree murder in connection with the child’s death. No date has been set for his bail hearing. He is due back in Provincial Court on April 14 when it will be determined if and when he will have a preliminary hearing.
Both Miller and Russell have elected to be tried by Court of Queens Bench on their murder, manslaughter and accessory after the fact charges.
They both underwent court-ordered, 30-day psychiatric examinations which determined they were fit to stand trial and were not, at the time of the alleged offence, suffering from any mental disorder that would make them not criminally responsible.
The small house where Russell and Miller lived on Route 790 was cordoned off for several days after their arrest as local RCMP officers aided by those from the J Division Major Crime Unit South conducted the investigation into the infant’s death.
ST. ANDREWS – A 19-year-old Moores Mills woman charged with manslaughter by criminal negligence and accessory after the fact to murder in connection with the death of her newborn son has been released on bail.
The court ordered that evidence presented at the bail hearing this week cannot be published - only the outcome. She was released from custody Friday afternoon and left the Court of Queens Bench in St. Andrews with her father.
Mr. Justice Raymond French heard evidence presented by Sarah Marie Russell’s lawyer, Randy Wilson, and Crown prosecutors Jim McAvity and Randy DiPaolo on Wednesday and Thursday, March 25 and 26.
Russell is also charged with disposing of the body of a dead child in an attempt to conceal its birth. She is due back in Provincial Court on April 20 when it will be decided if and when she will have a preliminary hearing into the first two charges. At that time she will also elect her mode of trial on the disposing of a dead body charge.
Russell and her boyfriend, Rodney Miller, 27, were arrested Jan. 29 and have been in custody since.
Miller is charged with first-degree murder in connection with the child’s death. No date has been set for his bail hearing. He is due back in Provincial Court on April 14 when it will be determined if and when he will have a preliminary hearing.
Both Miller and Russell have elected to be tried by Court of Queens Bench on their murder, manslaughter and accessory after the fact charges.
They both underwent court-ordered, 30-day psychiatric examinations which determined they were fit to stand trial and were not, at the time of the alleged offence, suffering from any mental disorder that would make them not criminally responsible.
The small house where Russell and Miller lived on Route 790 was cordoned off for several days after their arrest as local RCMP officers aided by those from the J Division Major Crime Unit South conducted the investigation into the infant’s death.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
HEADLINES - Courier Weekend, March 27
In the Courier Weekend, March 27
Call 466-3220 to subscribe
Woman charged in infant’s death seeks bail
Out of the woods, deer pose highway hazard
By-election candidates have until April 17 to file
St. Stephen family heading north… way north
Thompson slams province for quarry defence
Malloch seeks PC nomination
Washington County: We want our LNG
Body recovered, search continues for second man
Silverkings, Thrashers all tied up
Call 466-3220 to subscribe
Woman charged in infant’s death seeks bail
Out of the woods, deer pose highway hazard
By-election candidates have until April 17 to file
St. Stephen family heading north… way north
Thompson slams province for quarry defence
Malloch seeks PC nomination
Washington County: We want our LNG
Body recovered, search continues for second man
Silverkings, Thrashers all tied up
YOU SAID IT...
Quotes of the Week, Courier Weekend, March 27
“I’m just frustrated with the tactics of (Blacks Harbour Silverkings coach) Meryl (Stewart) and his nutbars.”
– St. Andrews Thrashers General Manager Murray Knox
(Meryl and the Nutbars would be a good name for a rock band).
“I am so confident in all the work that has been done by Calais LNG and I know this will be an excellent project for the area.”
– Calais Mayor Vinton Cassidy.
“The economy of Maine and Washington County is on thin ice, and Calais LNG will recharge our economy and help build a secure energy future.”
– Maine State Senator Kevin Shorey
“I don’t have a PhD or a college education but what I have got is a hard work ethic and very strong common sense values.”
– Curtis Malloch, PC candidate
“Does the province actually believe that these fines – which are supposedly now under strict conditions for on-site storage at the quarry – suddenly become safe when they are distributed into local communities? This is simply not believable.”
– Veterans Affairs Minister and MP Greg Thompson
“I just hate to see them killed.”
– Sharon Tucker, on the numbers of deer being killed on Highway One
“I’m just frustrated with the tactics of (Blacks Harbour Silverkings coach) Meryl (Stewart) and his nutbars.”
– St. Andrews Thrashers General Manager Murray Knox
(Meryl and the Nutbars would be a good name for a rock band).
“I am so confident in all the work that has been done by Calais LNG and I know this will be an excellent project for the area.”
– Calais Mayor Vinton Cassidy.
“The economy of Maine and Washington County is on thin ice, and Calais LNG will recharge our economy and help build a secure energy future.”
– Maine State Senator Kevin Shorey
“I don’t have a PhD or a college education but what I have got is a hard work ethic and very strong common sense values.”
– Curtis Malloch, PC candidate
“Does the province actually believe that these fines – which are supposedly now under strict conditions for on-site storage at the quarry – suddenly become safe when they are distributed into local communities? This is simply not believable.”
– Veterans Affairs Minister and MP Greg Thompson
“I just hate to see them killed.”
– Sharon Tucker, on the numbers of deer being killed on Highway One
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
QUOTES OF THE WEEK
“I didn’t support it or not support it."
“I just said, economically, it looks okay.”
– ST. STEPHEN MAYOR JED PURCELL (RIGHT)
“I think they have to hear both sides of the story and, once they do, I am sure they will change their opinion."
– ST. ANDREWS MAYOR JOHN CRAIG
"If these people are supportive of Jamer Materials, and believe in Jamer's solemn statements and science that they pose no threat to the environment (despite their operating history, and that of their parent company), let them host Jamer in St. Stephen. Let's plant a giant quarry dead-centre and sell it to the people as The St. Stephen Central Core Improvement Project."
– PAT MOWATT, BAYSIDE RESIDENT
“Did they not read the article?”
– PURCELL
“I didn’t have time to think."
– JERRICA BARTLETT, MEDAL OF BRAVERY WINNER
“They are putting us back 50 years. It makes no sense. They have wasted enough money on things that don’t add up. I don’t know how they came up with this.”
– JOYCE STUART, DEER ISLAND LSD
“People will have to adjust their travel plans.”
– ANDREW HOLLAND, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
“You can fight a better battle from within.”
– FORMER ST. STEPHEN MAYOR BOB BROWN CALLING RECENT RESIGNATIONS FROM COUNCIL A MISTAKE
“I am outraged. I am just vibrating."
– TERRY JAMES
BLACKS HARBOUR MAYOR ON THE PROVINCE'S FEE-BASED AMBULANCE PLAN.
"If someone wants to drop the mitts, we are more than happy to accommodate them."
– MATTY WALSH (RIGHT)
BLACKS HARBOUR SILVERKINGS
HEADLINES
John Gardner/CourierIn the Saint Croix Courier, Tuesday March 24, 2009
Call 466-3220 to subscribe
Lack of support stings St. Andrews -- Anti-quarry mayor wants chance to convince St. Stephen to join the fight
Quarry 'looks okay' -- But that's not a vote of support, says St. Stephen mayor
Councillors shouldn't have quit, says a former St. Stephen mayor
St. Stephen girl earns Medal of Bravery
Council chickens out of animal ban after bylaw lays an egg
Katlyn keeps fighting
Ferry cuts set Deer Island back 50 years
Mayor slams ambulance fee plan
Province responds to Thompson's quarry claims
Calais LNG holds public meeting Tuesday
EDITORIAL
Gutless comments are getting too much attention
LETTERS
If mayor supports quarry, bring it to St. Stephen
St. Stephen mayor stabbed St. Andrews in the back
Quarry GM says watershed is safe
SPORTS
Silverkings hook series lead
Islanders compete for NB title
St. Stephen girl earns Medal of Bravery
By JOHN GARDNER
john@stcroixcourier.ca
ST. STEPHEN – On March 16, Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada, announced that Jerrica Bartlett, of St. Stephen, will be the recipient of a Medal of Bravery awarded in a ceremony at Rideau Hall in Ottawa.
On Aug. 4, 2007, then 11-year-old Bartlett rescued her great-great-uncle from a possible drowning in North Head, Grand Manan...
See the full story in Tuesday's Saint Croix Courier
Friday, March 20, 2009
HEADLINES
JOHN GARDNER/COURIER Sarah Marie Russell, 19, is charged with manslaughter and being an accessory after the fact to the murder of an infant.In the Courier Weekend, March 20, 2009...
Couple deemed fit to stand trial in infant death case
Hundreds tell province: We don't want a quarry
St. Stephen mayor, councillors support quarry
Islanders keep ferry hope afloat
ASF’s Wilfred Carter dies at 82
Blacks Harbour councillor resigns
St. George wakes up dry
St. Stephen liquor store on the move
FIT TO STAND TRIAL
By KATHY BOCKUS
kathy@stcroixcourier.ca
ST. STEPHEN – A Moores Mills couple has been found fit to stand trial on charges of murder and manslaughter in connection with the discovery of the dead body of their newborn son.
Rodney Stuart Miller, 27, has elected to be tried by judge alone in Court of Queen’s bench on a charge of first-degree murder.
Sarah Marie Russell, 19, chose the same mode of trial on her charges of manslaughter and being an accessory after the fact to the murder of an infant the court is calling “Baby Russell.”
After the couple’s court appearance in St. Stephen on Tuesday, Miller’s lawyer, Joel Hansen said he would not be asking for a preliminary inquiry on his client’s behalf.
He said he is pushing for the receipt of the autopsy report.
“There’s no report yet that says the infant was alive at birth,” said Hansen. “If the child was not alive, there is no murder.”
For more visit www.stcroixcourier.ca
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
HEADLINES
Dick Cornish, of Dooly’s Billiard Room in St. Stephen, is ready for a St. Patrick’s Day toast.In the Saint Croix Courier Tuesday, March 17
Parker quits, St. Stephen council now down to four
Thompson urges quarry foes to attend meeting
Doucet sinks Campobello ferry dreams
Mayor John Craig wants to replace Huntjens
Parents charged in infant’s death return to court
Thompson demands clean-up of fines from granite quarry
Man who tried to rob video store gets treatment, not jail
Monday, March 16, 2009
St. Stephen Town Council... visionaries
Image copyright John Drysdale, used with permissionA few St. Stephen residents have asked the town to allow them to raise some hens in their yards. St. Stephen council has moved swiftly... to develop a bylaw banning chickens and any other livestock from town.
Meanwhile, in a forward-thinking, visionary city like Vancouver...
Cup comes to FHS
Barb Rayner/Courier
Former NHL stars Brian Trottier (left) and Butch Goring pose with a replica
of the Stanley cup with students from Fundy High where they made a
presentation Wednesday afternoon.
NHLers visit FHS
Barb Rayner/CourierFormer NHL stars Brian Trottier (left) and Butch Goring posed for a quick
photo with some Fundy High students after the arrived at the school to make
a presentation Wednesday afternoon.
Friday, March 13, 2009
Boy in Striped Pyjamas opens door to talk to kids about Holocaust
JOHN GARDNER
This Week on DVD
THE BOY IN STRIPED PYJAMAS
Three and a half stars out of five
The Boy in Striped Pajamas is the story of a forbidden friendship between two little boys, Bruno, (Asa Butterfield) and Shmuel (Jack Scanlon).
Shmuel lives on a farm. Barbed wire surrounds the farm to keep the animals in and they often smell the stench of burning garbage coming from chimneys on the farm.
Bruno lives in the house next door, and his father, Rolf (David Thewlis) runs the farm. The house is behind a fence, and he only has a small gravel yard to play in. The backyard is off limits to him, and there are no other children to play with. You very much get the sense that Bruno is living in a prison.
Soon the adventurous eight year old finds a way through the backyard and out into the forest beyond. A short hike takes him to the farm where he has spotted strange people who spend all day in striped pajamas.
In reality the “farm” is a Nazi concentration camp, the electric barb wire keeps the “animals” like Shmuel in, and the garbage that the family smells burning are the Jews being slaughtered.
Scanlon with his head shaved and missing a few teeth, steals the scenes with few lines and fearful facial expressions. Originally Scanlon and Butterfield had more lines but the awkward silences that developed on the set seemed more natural than anything that could have been written.
Butterfield is clearly the star of the show, appearing in 120 of 140 scenes. A childlike innocence surrounds Bruno, as he asks Shmuel, “Do you have a lot of friends over there?”
But Bruno is not the only innocent character. The question is often asked how such a thing could have happened, and in this film the viewer gets to see the events through fresh eyes. Mother Elsa (Vera Farmiga) is equally in the dark as to the true nature of events going in the camp. When a young lieutenant (played by Rupert Friend) let's slip the true nature of what is going up the chimneys, Elsa is furious with her husband. He tells her he was sworn to secrecy to death about what was happening there. In researching, the producers discovered through journals kept at the time, that the wife of the real life commandant at Auschwitz did not know was going on.
Thewlis, perhaps best known as Professor Remus Lupin in the Harry Potter films, uses his full 6'4” to create an imposing, sombre figure as if the weight of countless deaths weighed him down.
The film is a new take on the Nazi war movie. Although the film is clearly set in the midst of the Holocaust, the shock value is lacking in this version. While other films made use of period newsreels type shots, and Steven Spielberg made use of black and white in Schindler's List, this film was shot in crisp colour. The atrocities are hinted at, but are not in your face.
The film is rated PG, and is definitely not something to watch when you are looking for mindless entertainment. Because the brutality of Nazi Germany is presented subtly, I would recommend this movie as a good one to watch with your children when you have the time for a follow-up discussion. As the plot progresses, the characters are educated but there is still much to talk about.
I am giving this movie three and a half stars because while it was interesting once I got into it, it did not grip me. As a war movie, it lacked the action. As a holocaust movie, it lacked shock value. The British accents caused me some problems, merely because I am used to war movies where the people with British accents are fighting the Nazis. Even the boy in the striped pajamas (Scanlon) does not show up until the halfway point of the movie. The movie is based on the novel of the same name written by John Boyne.
Movies for This Week on DVD are provided by Movie Gallery, St. Stephen.
In the Courier Weekend, March 13, 2009
COURIER EXCLUSIVE -- Huntjens won't seek re-election
Quartermain quits St. Stephen council
Sweeney talks about call to the Hall
Bayside meeting isn't a quarry dig
LNG a great economic hope, says governor
Man pleads guilty to camp break-ins
New suds start flowing
NHLers treat fans to legendary night
Coming up in the Tuesday March 17 edition
Who might replace Tony Huntjens?
The Irish in St. Andrews
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
COURIER HEADLINES March 10, 2009
Chuck Brown/Courier
For hockey fans who remember the 1970s and ‘80s, Wednesday night’s NHL Legends game will bring back a flood of memories and offers a chance to see some of their hockey card heroes live and in person. Bryan Trottier, Billy Smith, Butch Goring, Glenn Anderson, Terry O’Reilly, Rick Middleton and Gary Leeman are set to take on a team of locals at 7 p.m. at the Border Arena.In Tuesday's Saint Croix Courier
Ferry a done deal
Time to shine - NHL stars coming to border town
Computer users jumping on broadband wagon
Island rink needs more work
Economy hurting community fund
Don Sweeney Hall of Fame bound
Reeves to speak at Boys and Girls Club fundraiser
Woman pleads not guilty to passing school bus
TIME TO SHINE
NHL greats hit Border Arena Wednesday
By CHUCK BROWN
editor@stcroixcourier.ca
ST. STEPHEN – Bryan Trottier has certainly earned the right to spend these Canadian winters somewhere warm where he can put his feet up, kick back and admire his Stanley Cup rings – all seven of them.
But he won’t. He can’t. He just can’t stay away from the rink. And on Wednesday night the Hockey Hall of Famer will be lacing up the blades with six other NHL legends for an exhibition at the Border Arena in St. Stephen.
“It brings back some memories for some hockey fans,” Trottier, 52, said Monday in a phone interview from New York.
Fifteen years removed from his last NHL game as a player, he said he still feels the pull of the rink and, while he’s based in the U.S., still loves getting to Canada any chance he gets. It’s here, said the Saskatchewan native, that hockey hits home hardest and where he feels the passion for the game everywhere he goes.
The game treated Trottier well and he has gone down not just as one of the best of his era but of all time. In 1998 The Hockey News ranked him number 30 on its list of 100 greatest players. He was an all-star year after year. He won a scoring title, an MVP and a playoff MVP award. He was a rookie of the year. He won Stanley Cups with the 1980s New York Islanders dynasty and with the Pittsburgh Penguins when Mario Lemieux ruled the game. He won another as an assistant coach in Colorado.
And while hockey was a rewarding career, Trottier has a confession.
“I would have played for free,” he said. “It’s just the greatest game at the highest level against the greatest players in the world.”
There’s no way to describe the feeling of skating on NHL ice, he said, never mind trying to put the emotions and experience of lifting a Stanley Cup into mere words. It can’t be done.
Trottier shone bright in a golden era for hockey. He was a key part of the Islanders’ dynasty that brought four straight Cups to Long Island before a kid named Gretzky, along with Messier and the rest, toppled the kings and assumed the throne.
Trottier still watches, and loves, the modern game but he’s not sure how he’d enjoy playing it.
“I had a good chat with Mike Bossy about that,” Trottier said.
His Islander teammate and legend in his own right agreed that new rules allow stars room to move and to shine but the competition is fierce and players today are bigger and stronger than ever.
“The players are so big,” said Trottier, who played at about 5-11 and 195 pounds. “I sure feel small when I walk through the dressing room today.”
His old Islanders aren’t the perennial Cup favourites they were when Trottier centred the Trio Grande line between Bossy and Clark Gillies. Today’s Islander fans can only cheer about the prospect of a last-place finish and a shot at the number one draft pick.
“You’d much rather be vying for the Stanley Cup every year,” Trottier said, acknowledging that it’s still exciting to think about the future and the prospect of adding someone like all-time OHL scoring leader John Tavares to the fold.
Like his fearless playing days, Trottier isn’t afraid to weigh in on some of hockey’s current hot-button issues either. With debate raging in the hockey world about the role of fighting, Trottier said he doesn’t mind a genuine, spirited scrap when emotions boil over and two players spontaneously combust. But the goon battles that pit fighter against fighter are too choreographed and pre-meditated.
“It’s a recipe for disaster,” he said. “I’m not a big fan of that.”
He said the instigator rule that penalizes a player for starting a fight has to go.
“It ruined it all for everybody,” he said of the rule, which critics say removes any form of player-dealt justice from the game.
He also said the current perceived feud between young superstars Sydney Crosby and Alexander Ovechkin is overblown by news-hungry media.
“I think the players have mutual respect for each other,” he said.
Focusing back on Wednesday night’s game at the Border Arena, Trottier said the Legends will provide an entertaining and interactive show.
“We have a lot of fun on the ice,” said the 18-year NHL veteran.
Joining him are fellow Islanders Butch Goring and Billy Smith, Boston Bruins Rick Middleton and Terry O’Reilly, Toronto Maple Leaf Gary Leeman and Glenn Anderson, best known as a five-time Cup winner with the Edmonton Oilers who added a sixth championship as a New York Ranger.
“He enjoys working the crowd,” Trottier said of the colourful Anderson.
Among the roster of Charlotte County players are Rob Dougherty, Mike O’Connell, Dan Dempsey, Larry Seabrook and RCMP members Don Marshall, John Beck and Dan Gourdeau. David Mitchell and Eric MacDonald, from Calais, will also be lacing up for the Charlotte County team.
The last time a roster of ex-NHL players skated at the Border Arena was 20 years ago when Eddie Shack and Frank Mahovlich were among the greats to face off against local heroes like Steve and Floyd Haley, Blair Price, Mike Kohler and Dale Orr.
The puck drops Wednesday at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under. That’s $5 less than originally planned, thanks to a donation from Cooke Aquaculture, said promoter Steve Walton.
Trottier or one of the other NHL legends is also expected to give a speech at Fundy High School Wednesday afternoon.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
HEADLINES for Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2009
John Gardner/CourierEmergency crews respond to an overturned ambulance on Highway 1 in Waweig on Friday, Feb. 20. The ambulance was being used to transport a patient to Charlotte County Hospital from Saint John Regional Hospital. One paramedic suffered minor injuries in the crash, however the driver and patient escaped unharmed.
To subscribe to the Courier and Courier Weekend, call 466-3220
LOCAL NEWS
Ambulance crashes en route to hospital
Okay winter, we give up -- Neither rain, nor sleet will stop the mail... but Monday’s snowstorm sure did
Long hours taking toll on snow plow crews
Council okays civic centre land purchase
Business leaders applaud civic centre location
Teacher accused of Internet luring asks for trial delay
‘It has been a rough winter’
LNG project a bright spot, says economist
Kiwanis pool will open
Barrys celebrate 70th anniversary
COLUMNISTS
Chuck Brown - A style guide for real guys
Mark Taylor - Book of Leafs heroes a short read
Gerald McEachern - Sorry Madonna, it's not a material world anymore
SPORTS
Phantoms best Vikings for NB title
Spartans boys title hopes dashed
CIVIC CENTRE POLL UPDATE
At stcroixcourier.ca we're asking what you think about the site of the new Charlotte County Civic Centre. So far the majority of voters say the civic centre should not be built at all.
Have your say NOW. Visit www.stcroixcourier.ca
VOTING AS OF TUESDAY MORNING
Have your say NOW. Visit www.stcroixcourier.ca
VOTING AS OF TUESDAY MORNING
| Where should the Charlotte County Civic Centre be built? | |
 34.2% | |
 10.5% | |
 5.3% | |
 5.26% | |
 44.7% | |
Thursday, February 19, 2009
In the Courier Weekend, Feb. 20, 2009
Kathy Bockus/CourierCharlotte County Civic Centre board president, Richard Fulton, left, and site selection committee chair, Bob Coates, right, announce Thursday that the $15-million complex will be built here, at Budd Avenue in St. Stephen.
DOWNTOWN BOUND - Civic Centre to be built on St. Stephen waterfront at Budd Avenue
Business as usual - NB salmon industry reviews landmark BC court ruling on aquaculture
Charlotte County gets hit again
Bayside LSD rejects quarry meeting
Woman charged with defrauding Quick Set Foundations
Fat bank account costly to teen
Drug trafficking case delayed a week
Fiddle legends expected at championship
Chamber elects new executive
Jail release short lived
Flu closes nursing home
DOWNTOWN BOUND
Civic Centre to be built on St. Stephen waterfront at Budd Avenue
Civic Centre to be built on St. Stephen waterfront at Budd Avenue
By KATHY BOCKUS
kathy@stcroixcourier.ca
kathy@stcroixcourier.ca
ST. STEPHEN – A site long favoured by the Charlotte County Civic Centre committee and the town has been chosen as the future home of the $15-million recreational, retail and business complex.
“We are very pleased to announce that we have selected Budd Avenue as the site for our civic centre,” said Richard Fulton, president of the CCCC board of directors, as he made public the long-anticipated location for the civic centre in a press release Thursday, Feb. 19.
“After extensive analysis of several possible sites, our committee feels we have definitely made the right choice,” said Bob Coates, chair of the CCCC board’s site selection committee.
Budd Avenue is located along the St. Croix River and near the Visitor Information Centre, the Town Square and the St. Croix Public Library.
For details, see the Courier Weekend, on newsstands Thursday evening.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
In the Saint Croix Courier, Tuesday, Feb. 17
Rosetta Gallant displays a selection of chocolates that will be available at the new Ganong Chocolatier, expected to open in Riverview June 1.Ganong is growing
Civic Centre project poised to take big leap
Dialysis unit on hold
Speedo-clad joggers chill out for charity
Passamaquoddy lovers unite
Legion seeks military photos
Lobster on menu for ministers meeting
St. Andrews performer up for ECMA
LNG developer faces lawsuit
General public yawns over marine planning opportunity
Brad Henderson and three Seahawks take aim at World Pond Hockey Cup
GANONG IS GROWING
Despite recession, St. Stephen's famed candy maker is opening a new shop in Riverview
Despite recession, St. Stephen's famed candy maker is opening a new shop in Riverview
By JOHN GARDNER
john@stcroixcourier.ca
john@stcroixcourier.ca
ST. STEPHEN – Ganong Bros. has made St. Stephen famous as Canada’s “Chocolate Town” and now, despite the recession, the company is expanding and opening a new retail shop on the Chocolate River.
The town of Riverview is creating a new tourist destination called Fundy Gateway and Ganong Bros. is making plans to be part of the development. The old firehouse on the shores of the Peticodiac River (also known as the Chocolate River) is part of this project and will house three prominent retailers. In addition to a Ganong Chocolatier, the facility will feature Rocky Mountain Maple and local soap manufacturer, Olivier.
Don’t expect to find the usual Delecto label at this new location, said Ganong Chocolatier Manager Jeff McShane.
“The shop will exclusively showcase our handcrafted products We will definitely do the boxes that are exclusive to the store here, and the pieces out of the showcase that are exclusive to the store,” he said.
“Riverview is the start of the Fundy experience so we positioned ourselves there for the tourist market as well as the Moncton – Riverview population.”
It is expected the new operation will open June 1, just in time for the tourist season. Bryana Ganong has been instrumental in establishing the new outlet.
The Chocolatier, at approximately 84 square metres, will be significantly smaller in size than the shop in St. Stephen, and just a small part of the 1,000 square-metre Fundy Gateway complex.
Dave Muire, the Chief Administrative Officer of the town of Riverview, said the fire station is ideally suited for the $2.2 million project. The structure, built in the early 1970s, has sat unused for the past three years.
“Over the last few years we have tried to find methods to develop it and we had some projects come forward we weren’t really keen on. And then this project came forward from a local entrepreneur with a proposal and worked on with my economic development officer,” says Muire.
“The theme is chocolate and tempting your senses so it should be a good fit.”
The exterior of the cement block structure is being resurfaced and the interior is being gutted.
Special events and demonstrations are going to be a part of the business, McShane said.
“The other facilities are actually demonstrating their products. The soapery is going to make soap on the premises. The Rocky Mountain Maple is actually going to make maple syrup, it’s done behind plexiglass. So we are in the process of actually adding something in the store that we are actually going to be making on site, whether it be fudge or things with chocolate. We are definitely leaning toward parties there, such as birthday parties or private events,” says McShane.
The complex is also expected to house artisans and there will be a restaurant there.
“Our part is that we are going to have another exclusive store in that part of the Maritimes,” says McShane.
Although a big part of the business is expected to be tourism based, the facility will be open year round, and employ four or five people at that location. McShane is responsible for setting up this new operation and will manage the Riverview location while continuing in his role as manager of the retail store in St. Stephen.
“We will have someone on site as a supervisor,” says McShane.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Animal shelter needs volunteers
The Charlotte County Animal Shelter is looking for some new ‘Friends’!
Join us for the first meeting of the “Friends of the Charlotte County Animal Shelter”, a new group for people interested in helping raise money for the shelter. We are looking for people to help organize and work at a variety of old and new fundraising events throughout the year. All are welcome on Thursday, February 26th at 7 PM at the St. Stephen Superstore upstairs meeting room.
Join us for the first meeting of the “Friends of the Charlotte County Animal Shelter”, a new group for people interested in helping raise money for the shelter. We are looking for people to help organize and work at a variety of old and new fundraising events throughout the year. All are welcome on Thursday, February 26th at 7 PM at the St. Stephen Superstore upstairs meeting room.
Friday, February 13, 2009
School bans sweatpants
A Moncton high school principal has outlawed sweatpants in his school.
Are sweatpants a problem in your school? Let us know.
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/new-brunswick/story/2009/02/12/nb-sweats-suspended.html
Are sweatpants a problem in your school? Let us know.
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/new-brunswick/story/2009/02/12/nb-sweats-suspended.html
SALUTE YOUR SWEATPANTS
Are sweatpants a problem in your school? Let us know.
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/new-brunswick/story/2009/02/12/nb-sweats-suspended.html
Are sweatpants a problem in your school? Let us know.
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/new-brunswick/story/2009/02/12/nb-sweats-suspended.html
SALUTE YOUR SWEATPANTS
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