Happy New Year 2010!

A blast from the past

An old NBTel pay phone sign on a store in the west side.

Santa by day, hepcat by night?

An online article published by Canada.com gives a bit of history on the department store Santa Claus phenomenon.  Interestingly,  Saint John historian David Goss is quoted, and apparently, (for those who remember or know about) MRA's had the first department store Santa in Canada.

Santa's first store appearance in Canada was at Saint John department store Manchester Robertson Allison in 1887, and his arrival caused such an uproar the police had to be called to disperse the crowd.

 Now, I wish I could take credit for this image of Santa rockin his Elvis Costello specs, but it's a Flickr find.

The Bridge

I have been noticing posters for the Bridge around the west side and "on the other side of the bridge".  And a flyer was delivered to my door this week advertising the the Bridge.
According to its Facebook page:

The Bridge is an informal worship gathering at Hillcrest Baptist Church. The service starts at 4:30pm and there is a meal after at 6:00pm. Everyone is welcome!

Many churches in the city offer weekly community meals. It's a good opportunity for those who are in need, and  for those who want companionship.

Still working on the Lancaster Mall

This worker took advantage of yesterday's reprieve from the bitter wind to work on the roof at Lancaster Mall.  Also, the light standards in the Mall parking lot have had the bulbs installed and on Fairville Blvd. the new LED fixtures are in place.   Good thing - with the new lanes and other changes to the area and intersection, it was getting difficult to see where you were supposed to be going once darkness set in.

Dominion Park Beach

I dropped by Dominion Park yesterday, the brief mild spell had me craving fresh air.  No sign of life to be found. It was interesting to see the formation of the frozen water on the shore.

Just when you thought it was safe to go out

Just a week or so ago I noticed how cooperative the weather had been for local construction companies - case in point - the Fundamental Baptist Church on Sand Cove Road; I took this image on Dec. 4th.  The cooperative spirit didn't last long as the cold and snowy weather appeared.

Home Energy Conservation Kit - Free! (kind of)

I picked up my Home Energy Conservation Kit from SJ Energy this afternoon. Not bad for just sending in an energy saving tip.  SJE gave out 800 kits valued at 50 dollars each.  (Isn't that $40,000?)  What are the chances the 50 bucks are figured in to my SJE statement?

Christmas Tree Lighting at Wolastoq Park

The rain had ended and the temperature was unusually mild for the Irving sponsored  Christmas Tree Lighting tonight at Wolastoq Park (former Centracare site).  A good sized crowd attended, and Rudolph, Frosty, and even the Grinch were chillin' to hot chocolate and music from Harbourview School choir.

Saint John Transit Lounge at Lancaster Mall

The Transit Lounge at Lancaster Mall is slowly taking shape. Although there wasn't actual work hapening when I was there today, there were signs that something was going on.  This is taking an awfully long time to complete.   Today was a very wet day, the lounge would have been a welcomed addition.

Market Place Wellness Centre opening

In spite of the weather today, many people attended the grand opening of the Market Place Wellness Centre in the Carleton Community Centre.

The centre will offer the services of a Nurse Practitioner, addiction programs, school outreach, blood work clinic, chronic disease management, and many other programs and services.

The West Side Food Bank will open there next Friday, and the agency's staff (volunteers) were in attendance today proudly showing off the new facilities.

The centre was created through many community partnerships, including the West side PACT, the City of Saint John, Horizon Health Network, and St. Joseph's Community Health Centre, to name a few.

Market Place Wellness Centre

The province of NB has spent a lot of money helping to establish a Wellness Centre in the Carleton Community Centre. The local neighbour group West Side PACT has been working with the province and the Hospital Corporation to make this happen.

The Market Place Wellness Centre is having a grand opening on Saturday the 28th at its location in the Carleton Community Centre. I hope to attend. It's a great addition to the west side, and a great service for the whole community.

Wildlife - Take Cover!

Last week I was in the area of the Maritime Opportunity Centre. The excavation happening near there is apparently for the Fundamentalist Baptist Church's new building, they're moving from Danells Drive. The construction is pretty well right in the back yards of the people who live on Driftwood Lane. I was just there a few weeks ago and there were several deer in the field having a great time. Not any more. Kind of a shame, really.

While I was there a flock of about 100 geese flew overhead heading southwest. I assume they were packing it in for the winter ... an awfully big flock to be one of the ones that sticks around for the winter, But maybe I am wrong. I was able to catch an image of only a half the flock; could hear them a long way's away.

Santa Parade

The West Side Santa Claus Parade was Saturday. I couldn't stay for the parade but did catch a bit. Ya couldn't have asked for better weather.

The Empty Stocking Fund was happening at the same time, so I don't know if that impacted attendance. I have yet to hear or read any news about the success of this year's Empty Stocking Fund; no idea how much money was raised. I can't seem to find information about the broadcast. The local media seem to go into hibernation every weekend.

The light standards on Fairville Blvd. are a new addition - wonder when the actual lights will be installed?

No flies on these pumpkins

I saw these at the Pumpkin Patch a few weeks ago. They were big.

You don't see this everyday!

These Halloween fans were taking advantage of the beautiful weather today.
They weren't trick-or-treating, it was a group of toddlers with their caregivers enjoying the sunshine.

More Updates Coming for Carleton Community Centre

Last week Saint John MP Rodney Weston announced a federal investment of $22,500 for the community centre's in the new gym floor, with the city contributing $40,000 which will finish the job.

The center which was built in 1863, has had a great year in terms of renovations and injections of funds. Earlier in the year the NB Dept of Health announced that the centre would be receiving $125,000 toward establishing a Wellness Centre in conjunction with St Joseph's Community Health Centre. A health practitioner provides disease management and specimen collection, and other services.

Apparently the West Side Food Bank will relocate to the community centre later in the year. This is very good news. The current location at the Maritime Opportunity Centre, is on a bus route that has sporadic service. And it's quite a walk if you're carrying a few bags of groceries.

Queen's Square Makeover?

According to the City's website:

The City of Saint John is developing a plan for Queen's Square West.

The public is invited to contribute to the plan for Queen’s Square West. The City of Saint John Input Session – Queen’s Square West Wednesday, September 16, 2009 7-9pm. St. Patrick’s School Gymnasium, 172 City Line. For further information, please contact the City of Saint John Leisure Services Department at 658-2909.

That could be exciting news... get out there everyone and have a say!!

I like this aerial image from the City's webage (look for Maps - under Services). It was taken in 1967. Great shot of the west side.

The Hurricane Bill Show

Hurricane Bill turned out to be a breeze for Saint John - thankfully.

Saints Rest beach attracted many spectators, none the less. The surf was definitely strong enough to pull a person out into the water. That didn't deter people from tempting fate.

It's amazing what nature can create; what are the chances of wind, water, and tides creating this?:

Art Gallery?

At a recent city council meeting (according to the August 17th agenda) Councillor Snook presented a motion to explore costs associated with a "graffiti management plan", and council members received information on Halifax's anti-graffiti program.

Graffiti can be a big problem. Defacing public and private property, and costs associated with clean-up, are serious considerations. I read recently about a two different approaches to controlling graffiti.

In Calgary this past weekend Urbanburn2 - an outdoor youth and art festival - addressed "artistic expression through vandalism" in a positive way. Artists exhibited their work and explored "non-destructive" means of graffiti. They were taught about public art and community involvement.

Meanwhile, according to a recent CBC article, the City of Calgary has given a "legal zone" to graffiti artists. From the article:

Dawn Ford, with the City of Calgary, said the project carries a positive message. "One of our goals is to visually animate our city and make it much more vibrant, and in a space like Shaw Millennium Park we're looking at targeting the art ... to the community that uses that park," Ford said.

On the other end of the spectrum, the city of Los Angeles is taking a very serious tone regarding graffiti. I read a story in the LA Times that reports the city's Attorney wants to give police the power to arrest taggers who congregate, they don't have to be caught doing anything illegal.

Not surprisingly there are many vocal critics to this proposal, ranging from representatives of civil liberties organizations to law enforcement officials.

How does this relate to the West Side? I am posting pictures of graffiti found on the west side. It is very impressive, and I would consider it to be non-destructive as it is found on an abandoned foundation near the water.

Sand Sculpture Contest at New River Beach

I did not attend the sand sculpture contest at New River Beach this weekend, but I drove by the area. I haven't heard how many people attended, but by the number of cars parked on the Saint John side of the entrance, I'd say the event was a success.

St Andrews Visit

I recently was in St. Andrews - it's been a while since I visited there. It was hopping busy. The murals on Water Street are a nice addition.

I had great coffee at Honeybeans Coffee, Tea and Treats, 157 Water Street. It's owned by couple from Alberta who moved to St Andrews last year. The coffee is roasted in Halifax, and the treats are made locally. Check it out.

Zellers Reopening and Lancaster Mall update

Zellers in Lancaster Mall had their official reopening today, after months of renovation. Apparently there were shoppers lined up outside the store at 6:30am. The store looks bright and clean, a great improvement. Can't wait for the parking lot reconstruction to be finished!

Java Moose also opened in Lancaster Mall this week. The new shop is looking good - a nice addition to the mall. They don't yet have the full menu that the other stores have - but hope to offer it soon.



The mall entrance to Zellers will open later this week. The area shown in the photo below will house the SJ Transit Lounge. The mall entrance to Zellers is on the left.

Why doesn't the SJ Police Force have a website?

I find it curious that the Saint John Police Force does not have its own website. The municipal web presence for the force is virtually non-exist ant. Many local and regional forces have their own sites, such as: Fredericton, and Rothesay, and larger cities like Halifax have a very comprehensive website with lots of useful information.

Kayak Tours from Dominion Park Beach

I dropped by Dominion Park this morning. It was an incredibly balmy day, and the crowd hadn't arrived yet, so it was very peaceful. Go Fundy Events was set up with their kayaks, ready to take out a group on a guided tour. Apparently business is good, and the cruise ship passengers keep the staff busy. They are set up on the beach most days, and I'm thinking about calling to arrange a tour. Their website says:

No previous kayaking or travel experience is necessary- we have all the experience you need!

I can relate to that. Sure looks like fun.

The New Bus Schedules Are Here!!

And they're not easy to find.

McAllister Place info booth has given away their entire supply, and not too many other locations have received them yet. I found some at the magazine store in Lancaster Mall. In any case, it looks like passengers are going to take a while to get used to the changes.

Housing Development not Developing

I was happy to read recently that Councilor McGuire is going to look into the (apparently abandoned) townhouse project on the corner of Prince St. and Lancaster Ave., formerly the site of the DVA (Dept. of Veteran’s Affairs) Hospital. Evidently he has received calls from residents about what has unfortunately turned into an eyesore. I pass by the site frequently and the once promising development has obviously run into serious problems. I can recall the anticipation when then-Mayor McFarlane made the announcement on the development, way back in 2006, I think, maybe it was 2005. It’s a shame it didn’t pan out, the location is really good.

A sign on the Prince Street side says “Rockingstone Estates – Development Opportunity – For Sale / Mawhinney Real Estate”. I checked the Rockingstone Estates website and it looks like nothing has been added since the project was a few months’ old, and the Mawhinney site appears to be selling some of the properties.

Minutes from the Planning Advisory Committee March 22, 2005 meeting record the presentation from Fulton Surveys Ltd on behalf of Norm Ganong to develop the site. In a TJ article three years later - March 11, 2008 the developer, Norm Ganong, said the amount of paperwork was much more than he anticipated and he had to halt work in the fall of 2006 because he hadn't completed a developer's agreement with the city. Apparently the plan was to build 74 units on the site, to sell for between $225,000 and $250,000, and he hoped to resume building in April 2008. Seems to me that’s way too many for the site, however, I would like to see some housing on the site; we certainly need it in the city.

Just across Prince Street is a nice redevelopment of the former Red Cross Lodge. I am not sure if it houses condos or apartments, but they are on the pricey side. The owner has done a great job.

Feel-good Shopping - sounds like a plan!

Hospice of Greater Saint John is embarking on a unique (to this region) fund-raising venture to assist with the cost of running the Hospice Residence.

The Hospice Shoppe is being touted as "An Upscale Resale Experience - an upscale boutique where savvy shoppers will find one-of-a-kind clothing and décor items at the best prices in town." The shop will sell quality, used and new clothing and other items, that have been donated. The location has undergone extensive renovations and is operating with a large volunteer bank, and one Hospice staff member.

Apparently there are successful models of this type of fund-raising venture in Canada and the USA. A great idea, I hope it is a big success for the agency.

Opening day is July 21. The shop is located at 77 Catherwood Street (corner of Ready Street and Catherwood), in the Gamezilla building, formerly the location of Value Frenchy's.

More information on hours and how and what kind of of item to donate can be found on the Hospice website.

Build It & They Will Park

I know this isn't a Westside issue, but ....

Rainbow Row in Charleston, South Carolina (saw the picture in last Saturday's TJ, Escapade section) and the proposed Carleton Street parking facility seem strikingly similar.

I think the proposed garage is kind of cool. It's a garage for crying out loud, does have to be dull and boring?

Just saying.

MacLaren's Beach Stuff

Kind of gives new meaning to "dining alfresco".

New Transit Routes & Schedules

As I mentioned in an earlier post, (and since then confirmed in SJT GM Frank McCarey’s presentation to City Council) Saint John Transit is introducing new routes, they'll come into effect Sunday August 9.

According to the SJT website:

The names and numbers of many routes have changed. This will allow all routes to be grouped according to where they are located in the city. All schedules will be colour-coded, making them easy to identify. The new numbering system will also allow for the easy addition of new routes in the future.

Highlights include:

• Direct service to the SJ Regional Hospital and UNBSJ from McAllister Place and Lancaster Mall, and direct service from Lancaster Mall to McAllister Place.
• Additional service has been added in the morning and the evenings.
• Three new Park ‘N Ride routes will be added within Saint John. These routes will service Latimore Lake, Golden Grove and Lorneville.

If you have not had a chance to check them out – do so. It’s quite a change, and I think once riders get used to the new schedules and routes (might take a bit of time) they’ll be pleased.

Route maps and schedules are available here.

Here's a picture of the SJ Transit site taken last week - didn't take long to clean up. Another building will be going up shortly, Quizno's is meant to open there.

Must try - Light Lime

I haven't had the opportunity to try Moosehead's new product - Moosehead Light Lime - but I see someone at MacLaren's Beach had a few. Maybe they enjoyed it so much they left the empties behind on the way to NBLC to purchase more.

This afternoon on CBC Radio's Shift sommelier Craig Pinhey broke with tradition; instead of reviewing a wine he gave his thoughts on Moosehead Light Lime. It met with his approval as he gave it pretty good marks.

More Fairville Blvd. Plaza

Demolition of SJ Transit's Lorne Lawless Centre began yesterday. In the picture above you can see the new Staples store through the rubble of the bus garage.

And in this image, below, you can see a portion of another phase of the new Plaza on the right, behind the heavy equipment.

Bay Shore Beach

Access to the beach at Bay Shore will be a little easier once the repairs to the stairs are complete. Today there was a crew from the City working on the remains of the existing stairs; I suppose erosion, the elements, and unfortunately vandalism have taken their toll.

Do chickens mind the fog?

I was interested to learn about the experimental urban chicken “farm” recently approved by the city of Moncton (if you call keeping four hens in a pen a farm.)

Good for Moncton. Post Carbon Greater Moncton is trying to bring awareness to our dependence on fossil fuels and increase food self-sufficiency. The pilot project will run for year and will include an educational component.

The Globe and Mail recently ran a story: City residents illegally keep chickens about would be urban farmers in many Canadian cities having trouble convincing their municipalities and neighbours of the benefits of urban chicken farms. Halifax residents were among those interested in a similar project but were unsuccessful in their bid to keep city-chickens. What can I say except, keep on cluckin'.

Recognizing Community Partnerships

This morning I attended a celebration of the significant work that West Side PACT (Police and Community Together) undertakes in the community. The group and its volunteers were recognized by RBC Westwind Place who have been all week long acknowledging community involvement to improve the quality of life for citizens.

A poster recognizing Chuck Edison's (of the Carleton Community Centre) work and completed by students of Beaconsfield Middle School was displayed.

Fairville Blvd. Plaza

Work is moving along at the Fairville Blvd Plaza. I see that Staples is hiring staff to set up the store / stock shelves in the next few weeks. The Dollarama has its sign erected on the storefront.



Saint John Transit is scheduled to move into its new location within the next few days. There is already demolition happening on the west side of the current site. I recently heard that SJ Transit's new routes will include busses to UNBSJ and the SJ Regional Hospital from the Lancaster Mall. If so, I think this will be a welcomed change for customers who have to make a mad-dash transfer across Main and Metcalf Streets.

Fairville Blvd. at Catherwood Drive is undergoing major renovations, and traffic, although slow, is moving pretty smoothly through the intersection.

Why so serious ... Champlain?

I hope to drop by Wolastoq Park (formerly the site of the Provincial Hospital / Centracare) on July 7th to learn more about the individuals represented by the wood sculptures displayed there. David Goss will be the presenter, should be interesting.

Communities at Work and Play

Last weekend saw many activities around the city, and the west side was busy, too. The great weather helped bring people out to support two events that I dropped by. On Saturday at the Carleton Community Center supporters assisted with a clean up and barbeque organized by John Campbell. Members of the International Longshoremen's Association were there to help. Mr. Campbell wants to raise community awareness of the unused and neglected green spaces, and raise funds for a multi-purpose community facility. If you haven’t been to the playground at the Center it’s worth checking out.

On Sunday I dropped by the fundraiser for the Porter Memorial Playground at Seawood Elementary School. The organizers are hoping to raise $200,000 to build a playground. Again, lots of community support was evident. I don’t know how much was raised at Sunday’s event but by the look of the crowd a good beginning was made.

West Side Mall Progress

This week I checked out the progress of the new strip mall on Fairville Blvd. across from the Co-op store. Things are really moving along, and people seem to be excited about the development. Staples will be opening in time for back-to-school. I imagine work will really take off once the SJ City Transit building is empty (the end of this month).

Unfortunately, the mall has already been the target of vandals, who last Saturday caused more than $5,000 damage. Apparently windows light bulbs and toilets were destroyed causing over $5,000 in damages. Not sure if arrests have been made.