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Shared Info Breaks Perry Burglaries Wide Open, Two Charged

2010-04-30T01:11:00.000-07:00

A routine traffic stop in Calais early Thursday provided the break police would need later in solving three burglaries.

Three law enforcement agencies sharing info led to the arrest Thursday of two people allegedly involved in three burglaries in the town of Perry.

The first inkling of such activity came at around 3 a.m. Thursday when Calais Patrolman Roy Wise responded to a report of glass breaking and came upon a suspicious vehicle, Deputy Tom Chambers of the Washington County Sheriff's Office told WQDY NEWS late Thursday night.

"They received a call from a concerned citizen that they heard the sound of glass breaking. Officer Wise responded -- that time of night -- a vehicle in the area -- he stopped to identify the people. He identified them and saw some suspicious items in the vehicle to include alcohol, TVs, but at that point we had no proof that the items were stolen but he took pictures of it," Chambers said.

It turned out the two people in the vehicle were both teenagers and Wise seized the alcohol that was on board.

But the gravity of what that traffic stop really meant didn't become apparent until a few hours later.

When Dep. Chambers came on duty Thursday morning he made his usual rounds stopping by the Calais police station and Sgt. Chris Donahue told him about that earlier traffic stop.

Recalling the conversation with Sgt. Donahue, Chambers said, "Hey did you have any breaks in Robbinston or Perry last night?"

At that point Chambers had nothing to report.

"Two hours later, I get a call of a burglary in Perry," Chambers told us.

Maine State Police Trooper Staci Carpenter was also investigating two burglaries in Perry.

Two camps and a residence were burglarized. The owner of the residence was visiting out of state.

After comparing notes and speaking with Calais police about the suspicious vehicle they stopped earlier that morning, "interviews were conducted, confessions were obtained from the people involved and their involvement and the stolen items were recovered to include TVs, cameras, a large amount of alcohol, some cash - it was coins that were stolen but they converted it to cash and as a result, Christopher Gagne, 18, of Hartland, ME, was charged with burglary. A 16-year-old male juvenile was also charged with attempted burglary from offenses that occurred not only with the State Police, the Washington County Sheriff's Office and Calais police department," Chambers said.

Gagne was transported to the Washington County jail Thursday evening by Trooper Staci Carpenter. The 16-year-old was released into the custody of his parents. The youth is from the same area as Gagne.

A firearm was allegedly taken in one of the burglaries but according to Chambers the suspects told police where they could find the firearm -- they had thrown it into the woods.

"We actually recovered all the stolen items and everything will be returned to the rightful owner. The rightful owners are already up here from Massachusetts and they're going to be getting back their stuff tomorrow [Friday] night. It worked out good," the deputy said.

After Gagne and the 16-year-old were stopped and checked on -- and after the alcohol was seized, Chambers told us, "they were riding it out to see what would happen."

"Gagne was asked about why he stole all of the alcohol because there was a large amount and he said he just wanted to be the cool guy on campus," Chambers said.

Wise seized the alcohol and took Gagne's IDs and said 'you'll come see me tomorrow because I'm going to write you for it. I just don't have time right now -- because he was on his way to that glass break,' Chambers related.

Thursday was a busy day for Deputy Tom Chambers, State Trooper Staci Carpenter and Officer Roy Wise early and late.

"Roy finished up his thing and I conducted an interview and interrogation and obtained a confession from Mr. Gagne's involvement in the burglaries.

A COOPERATIVE EFFORT THAT PAID OFF

"This is a prime example of law enforcement working together and sharing information because had not the information been shared no one would have ever known about the vehicle that Officer Roy Wise stopped in Calais at 3 o'clock in the morning. Then on top of that the call-sharing agreement that we have with the state police and working cases together clearly shows that it works in Washington County and crime is being solved. Not all the time it can be -- but in this case it did," Chambers told us.

YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT YOU'LL FIND AS A RESULT OF A TRAFFIC STOP

"A lot of people complain about law enforcement officers whether it be a state trooper, local police or deputy sheriff doing traffic stops and -- 'oh they're just bothering people' -- but this is how a routine traffic stop can turn into several felony charges," Chambers said.

- Tom McLaughlin, WQDY-WALZ News Director -

On Failing To Signal At Roundabout In Calais

2010-04-28T17:50:00.000-07:00

If you drive in Calais you've got to do it by the book.

There were no tickets issued but several motorists received warnings courtesy of Calais police Tuesday evening -- for failure to signal while coming through the rotary or traffic circle on Routes 1 by the connector road to the new border crossing.

"There's been some issues come up as far as traffic and the new traffic circle," Sgt. Chris Donahue told WQDY NEWS on Wednesday.

We need to make people understand that the vehicles inside the rotary or the traffic circle have the right of way. People have to yield to the people in the rotary or traffic circle. When exiting the circle or rotary, it's considered a lane change and people have to signal with their vehicle that they are making that lane change, Donahue explained.

Are motorists surprised?

"I think people are surprised just because the whole rotary/ traffic circle is new to the area and people aren't used to that type of traffic control device. They just need to be educated on the proper way so everybody can drive safely," Donahue said.

The traffic circle or rotary of which Donahue speaks is called a "roundabout" by the Maine Department of Transportation.

According to info posted at http://www.maine.gov/mdot/roundabouts/ -- Traffic in the roundabout always has the right of way, so slow down and be prepared to yield as you approach. Pay attention to visual cues, such as raised splitter islands, that separate you from opposing traffic as you approach the roundabout. Always stay to the right of the splitter islands. Look to your left before entering the roundabout, yield to oncoming traffic and always travel counter clockwise. It is important to know your destination before entering the roundabout. Watch for directional signs and proceed cautiously to the appropriate lane. Stay in your lane until you're ready to exit. Always use your turn signals and look in your rear-view mirrors before you exit. Yield to pedestrians and bicyclists. Always assume trucks need all available space don't pass them.

On Wednesday, Calais police sent out a traffic warning to subscribers of the Nixle e-mail notification system.

It said: "Traffic Message: Many warnings issued last night [Tuesday]! Remember you must signal when exiting the rotary."

Several recipients of the Nixle e-mail called the police department to complain or comment that it was a bit too much. [At least there is still a local dispatcher to answer those calls]. Some folks even took to facebook posting their two cents about the issue.

But it really doesn't matter -- if you're doing something on the road you shouldn't be -- police might light you up.

"The Calais police department enforces all motor vehicle and traffic laws," Sgt. Donahue said matter-of-factly.

The fine for that violation would be $137.

Donahue said the traffic stops Tuesday night only resulted in warnings. "There were no tickets to my knowledge -- at least by this department."

But if a state trooper or a county deputy happens to observe an errant motorist they may give more than a warning.

- Tom McLaughlin, WQDY-WALZ News Director -

AP: Bureau Of Indian Affairs Ends LNG Agreement

2010-04-27T11:38:00.000-07:00

PLEASANT POINT, Maine (AP) - The Bureau of Indian Affairs has ended a land-lease agreement between the Passamaquoddy Tribe and an Oklahoma company that hoped to build a liquefied natural gas terminal in eastern Maine.

The tribe voted last June to terminate its contract with Quoddy Bay LNG, but the company objected.

The company had contended the project is still viable, but Quoddy Bay President Donald Smith said previously that his company ran out of money. He wasn't immediately available for comment Tuesday.

Quoddy Bay withdrew its applications for state and federal permits last year. It had hoped to build the LNG terminal on Passamaquoddy tribal land at Pleasant Point.

- THE ASSOCIATED PRESS -

Relay For Life Of Machias Raises Over $27 K

2010-04-27T07:44:00.000-07:00

This past weekend's American Cancer Society Relay For Life of Machias raised over $27,000.

More than 170 people, represented by 16 teams, participated in this year's Relay event by walking for 18 hours on the University of Machias track.

The teams were comprised of area families, faith-based groups, businesses, clubs and other organizations.

For more information about next year's Relay For Life of Machias and how to get involved, visit www.relayforlife.org/machiasme. You may get involved with or make a donation to Relay For Life at any time at RelayForLife.org or call 1-800-227-2345 for more information.

- Tom McLaughlin, WQDY-WALZ News Director -

"Human Element" In Pembroke Grass Fire Monday

2010-04-26T21:04:00.001-07:00

Firefighters were kept busy Monday afternoon in the Pembroke area.

Maine Forest Ranger Courtney Hammond told WQDY NEWS, "I think the fire might be related to the other fires that have happened in the area, definitely a human element to the cause."

"[It was] five acres of brush and shrubs along a stream. The fire was extinguished by the Pembroke, Dennysville fire departments and also assisted by the Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge firefighters," Hammond said.

The call came in shortly before 2 p.m. Crews were tied up for just over three hours.

There was also a motor vehicle accident with personal injury in close proximity to the fire.

"There were two people in the vehicle -- one was injured and transported to Downeast Community Hospital by Dennysville Ambulance," Hammond said.

They weren't firefighters or emergency personnel, the ranger said.

"They were coming to see the fire and apparently they had interest in some of the adjoining property -- they were coming to check on that in the proximity of the fire and in doing so they rolled over and hurt themselves," Hammond said.

Arson wildfires have been plaguing the areas of Pembroke, Perry, Pleasant Point and Robbinston recently and they are all under investigation.

Hammond said he was going to check on a fire in Pembroke that occurred Sunday night. It was also of suspicious origin.

"It was another small grass fire that occurred Sunday night that burned itself out possibly, it was in the same area." Hammond learned of that particular fire Monday afternoon.

"Once again if anybody has information, or saw anything suspicious on the Ox Cove Road or Young's Cove Road or the Leighton Point area give us a call," Hammond said.

The Maine Arson Wildfire Hotline is 1-800-987-0257.

Shortly after crews in Pembroke wrapped up on Ox Cove Road, there was another grass fire on the Pembroke-Perry town line and another smaller blaze in Perry after that.

- Tom McLaughlin, WQDY-WALZ News Director -

Bangor Daily News: Jailed Pastor Denies Kidnap Charge, Theft Accusations

2010-04-26T20:30:00.000-07:00

MACHIAS, Maine - Wearing a jailhouse orange T-shirt inside out and stretched over his wide shoulders, Colin Haag Jr. on Monday morning denied that he is a kidnapper or thief.

"At the end of the day, God will get us out," he said in an interview at the Washington County Jail.

Haag Jr., 34, and his wife, Amanda Haag, also 34, most recently lived in Jonesport while Haag Jr. was serving as the pastor of the Lighthouse Baptist Church in Addison. The couple was arrested nine days ago, he on a charge of kidnapping and she on a charge of criminal restraint. They are being held on $25,000 and $5,000 cash bail, respectively.

Amanda Haag's two daughters, ages 7 and 12, were found on April 18 by themselves in a room at the Eagle's Lodge motel in Ellsworth after Colin Haag's father, Colin Haag Sr., told police that he had been held a virtual prisoner in the family's cellar and that Amanda Haag was hiding her two daughters from her ex-partner, who police said had legal custody.

After the Haags were arrested, the girls were reunited with their biological father who has returned with them to Florida, according to police. The man had been searching for his daughters for more than two years.

"I'm sitting here, facing 30 years in jail, for something I didn't do," Haag Jr. said Monday, tears springing to his eyes.

He maintained that his and his wife's arrests are a mistake and that there never was any custody agreement between Amanda Haag and the girls' father, whose name neither officials nor Haag Jr. have disclosed, and therefore the Haags could not be in violation of any law or agreement.

"It is a custody issue blown out of proportion," he said.

Haag Jr. and his wife, who are natives of Myrtle Beach, S.C., arrived in Maine last September where he was to be the pastor of the Lighthouse Baptist Church.

The Washington County Sheriff's Department has said the incident began when Haag's father, Colin Haag Sr., came to their attention on Sunday, April 18. Haag Sr. told the police that he had been held virtually a prisoner in the family's cellar and that Amanda Haag was hiding her two daughters from her ex-partner, who had legal custody.

None of that is true, Haag Jr. maintained on Monday.

Haag Jr. said his father had been living with the couple in South Carolina but was removed by police from the home after he became drunk and abusive.

"We left to follow my calling to pastor a church," Haag Jr. said. "When we arrived in Maine, I invited him to live with us. He had been living in the woods in South Carolina. I bought him a bus ticket and drove to Pennsylvania to pick him up."

Haag Jr. said his father did live in the basement of the Jonesport home but that it was fully furnished and contained two rooms and a bathroom.

His father struggles with alcohol issues, Haag Jr. said.

"He was arrested and put in jail when I was about 14 or 15 and I ended up in a foster home," Haag Jr. said.

But he said the two continued to maintain a close relationship.

Haag Jr. said he never finished high school, never completed an attempt to enlist in the U.S. Marines, and never was ordained as a minister.

When he and his wife met about four years ago, her ex-partner took the couple's son, now age 14, and she took her two daughters and they parted ways. He said the ex-partner moved with the son to Florida.

"We stayed in South Carolina for two years, and there was never any custody agreement," Haag Jr. said. �He never supported those girls or attempted to visit them. I took them on as if they were my own. I loved them and took care of them."

He said his wife and the girls' father never were legally married.

Police have said that the Haags are married to each other and separate spouses.

Haag Jr. said he and Amanda Haag were married in South Carolina and then moved on to Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia, seeking a church to serve.

Haag is not an ordained minister, but he said he has a certificate from the Universal Life Church of Modesto, Calif., that he obtained over the Internet.

"I am a pastor of God,� he said. �I wanted to pastor a church. I felt I had the calling."

Haag Jr. said he looked on www.pastorfinder.com and found that the Addison church was seeking a pastor.

"We moved to Maine," he said.

He said the family lived in the church parsonage in Addison, but that after two months, things didn't work out at the Addison church. He would not elaborate.

"I just didn't want to be there," he said.

Parishioners have accused the Haags of making off with church property, including furniture, candlesticks and hymnals.

When asked if he stole from the church, Haag Jr. said he did not. He would not discuss the accusations further.

"I started my own church in Columbia," he said, which was known as the Victory Baptist Church.

"Maine was the last place I wanted to be," he said, but after getting to know the Washington County people, he and his family were happy here.

The couple worked at a local wreath-making company, and Amanda Haag had a part-time job with a local community agency.

"My wife taught sign language in the church, and we just tried to serve God the best we could," he said.

Haag Jr. said all that changed last week.

Although police said they came to Jonesport because of Haag Sr.'s statements, Haag Jr. said it was because his wife's ex-partner had shown up at their home. Haag Jr. said the man, whom he refused to name, had threatened Amanda Haag with a gun in the past and the couple was frightened.

"He came to our house at 11 a.m. that Sunday," Haag Jr. maintained. "He left, he came back, he left."

Haag Jr. said he and his wife were so afraid that they packed their belongings in suitcases and drove the girls to the Ellsworth motel.

Police have said that the couple was ready to move on, that they believed the girls' father was getting close to finding them, and that Haag Jr. had obtained a new pastor position in Ohio.

"But we forgot one of the suitcases," Haag Jr. said. He said his wife was afraid to be by herself so they left the girls alone with food, money and a cell phone, and drove back to Jonesport.

The girls' father was waiting there, Haag Jr. said. "He and his sister were hiding in his truck in nearby bushes. We called 911."

Haag Jr. said the couple had recently filed paperwork with Machias attorney Frank Cassidy seeking full custody of the girls and adoption by Haag Jr.

Cassidy said he could not discuss anything he talked about with the Haags but confirmed that a Parental Rights and Responsibilities form was filed with the Washington County court by Amanda Haag on Friday, April 16, two days before her arrest. He explained that when a person is unmarried, with children, the PRR form is filed to establish a custody agreement.

Haag Jr. said that paperwork prompted the children's father's visit to Maine.

While the Haags waited for police to arrive that Sunday morning, police were listening to Haag Sr. provide directions to his granddaughters' location.

Ellsworth police officers went to the motel and found the two children.

"An hour later, we were arrested," Haag Jr. said.

"I can't understand the charges. In South Carolina, if a parent abandons a child and provides no child support, he loses custody. For the two years we were in South Carolina after the ex moved to Florida, he never contacted those children."

Amanda Haag refused to be interviewed Monday.

Haag Jr. said he is worried about his wife, adding that jail officials will not let him speak to her.

"I know she is frightened," he said. "She is the biological mother of those girls. How can Maine charge her? Those girls loved their mom and loved me."

"This is a nightmare," he said, wiping away tears. "I have ruined my ministry. I have ruined my life. I did not do anything wrong."

Haag said he sits in his cell and thinks about the situation continuously.

"I think of my wife and I think of my girls. I stay by myself and read the Bible and I pray. I hope and pray.� He quoted from the Bible: �Be still and know that I am God."

The case will be heard by a Washington County grand jury in mid-May.

Washington County Sheriff Donnie Smith said the District Attorney's Office is looking into the possibility that the charges will be transferred to the federal court system.

- THE BANGOR DAILY NEWS -

You Can Prevent Bears

2010-04-26T20:10:00.000-07:00

Yes, you can prevent bears -- or make it less likely that they'll pay a visit to house by securing your garbage or bird feeders.

Every year around this time, Calais police start getting calls about bears visiting backyards lurking with intent to loom.

Chief David Randall said it's nothing out of the ordinary.

"Actually, it's probably less this year than last year.

But the advice is the same:

"Keep your garbage, your dog food and your planters and bird seed in and stay away from them [bears]."

"They're grumpy, they just got up. So be friends and we'll be good. Welcome to Maine -- the way life should be," Randall said.

- Tom McLaughlin, WQDY-WALZ News Director -

Weekly Report From Troop J Maine State Police

2010-04-26T07:46:00.000-07:00

Thefts of copper, thefts from a church, credit card fraud and leaving the scene of a personal injury crash are among the incidents in Troop J over the past week. Here are some:

April 19:

Trooper Dan Ryan handled a burglary in Lamoine were copper pipe was stolen. Suspects are known. Investigation continues.

Trooper Dan Ryan responded to a trespassing complaint in Orland where a man was warned not to be on the property of a woman after he was found living at the residence. The case has been turned over to the DA for review. Troopers Jessica Shorey and Thomas Pickering assisted.

Trooper Andy Foss handled the report of a fraud case in Marshfield where a woman's credit card information was being utilized to make purchases in Missouri. She was advised to contact her credit card company to report the crime and possibly pursue the matter in Missouri where the crime occurred.

Trooper Jason Fowler recovered stolen property in Baileyville valued over $1,000 from a metal theft reported to Trooper Greg Burns in Cooper.

April 20:

Trooper Dan Ryan assisted the Code Enforcement Officer in Orland with an escort to inspect a property. The assist went without incident.

April 21:

Trooper Greg Burns received a telephone harassment complaint from a woman in East Machias. The caller reported that she had been receiving harassing calls from a man she knew. The man was warned for telephone harassment.

Trooper Greg Burns received an harassment complaint from a man in Trescott who reported that his ex-wife was harassing him. Both parties were warned for harassment.

Trooper Greg Roy responded to a report of a loud party at a residence in Brooksville. Several subjects ran into the woods when Trooper Roy arrived at the scene. Sgt. Alden Bustard and Trooper Michael Southard as well as Hancock Sheriff's Office also responded to the scene. Several subjects including were found hiding in a loft in the barn behind the residence. An 18-year-old man who resided at the home
was placed under arrest for furnishing a place for minors to consume alcohol and was transported to the Hancock County jail. Four juveniles were summonsed for illegal possession of liquor by a minor. Three adult subjects were also summonsed for illegal possession of liquor by a minor.

April 22:

Trooper Kimberly Sawyer received a report of an intoxicated person wandering in and out of the street by the Circle K in Princeton. The trooper found the man staggering down the street and took him to his residence in Indian Township. He was warned about this behavior.

April 23:

Trooper Greg Roy responded to a report of a subject walking in the roadway and acting erratically on Route 15 in Stonington. The subject stated that he was going to the hospital to get a shot and was yelling at a crisis worker on the telephone. The man, who suffers from mental health issues and had not been taking his medication, was transported to EMMC for an evaluation.

April 24:

Trooper Greg Roy responded to a report of a burglary on the Southern Bay Road in Penobscot. The caller reported that she went to open the United Methodist Church for a function and a found the hinges torn off a cabinet. There were no signs of forced entry. A jar containing approximately three hundred dollars in loose change and forty dollars in cash had been taken from the cabinet. The investigation continues.

Trooper Greg Roy responded to a report of a burglary at the St. Francis by the Sea Church in Blue Hill. It appeared as though someone had attempted to pry open a window to gain entry. The window was broken but no one had entered the building.

Trooper Greg Roy responded to a theft complaint at a residence in Stonington. The caller reported that someone had stolen his food stamp debit card and it had been used at the Burnt Cove Market. The man was intoxicated and the complaint was determined to be unfounded.

Sgt. Jeff Ingemi investigated a vehicle parked on the side of the road in East Machias. An 18-year-old man from Cooper was summonsed for illegal possession of liquor by a minor. Two 17-year olds were summonsed for illegal possession of liquor by a juvenile. Parents were notified. Trooper Andy Foss assisted.

Troopers Dan Ryan and Jessica Shorey and her K-9 Yosher assisted the Hancock Sheriff's Office in Surry with a report that a man was at a residence with a knife threatening to harm himself. A search was conducted and it is believed he left in a vehicle prior to the arrival of police. He was located later in the day and arrested by Hancock Sheriff's Office.

Trooper Jessica Shorey received a theft report in Hancock at the Tideway Market where a 25-year-old man was reported to have stolen $20. He was located and arrested for violation of conditional release and summonsed for theft.

Trooper Michael Southard responded to a burglary complaint in Eastbrook. The caller reported that his garage had been broken into and the locks had been cut. His neighbor also had two sheds that had been broken into. The investigation continues.

April 25:

Trooper Jason Fowler arrested a 31-year-old man in Northfield for 3rd offense of operating under the influence of alcohol and operating a motor vehicle after having a revoked license. The man had been drinking at the Thirsty Moose in Machias before driving home to Northfield.

Trooper Jessica Shorey responded to Hancock to assist ambulance attendants with a report that a woman had overdosed on medications. The woman was transported by ambulance to the hospital.

Trooper Greg Mitchell investigated a serious injury crash that occurred on Rt-172 in Surry. According to police, Robert Smith, 65, of Brooklin was operating his red 2010 Ford F-250 south on Rt-172. Daniel Hadley, 63, of Blue Hill was operating a black 2005 Honda Civic south on Rt-172 just ahead of Smith. Smith rear-ended Daniel Hadley at a high rate of speed. Smith's truck rammed Hadley's vehicle off the roadway causing it to rolled over several times before coming to rest on its hood in the roadway. Daniel Hadley and his wife, Patricia Hadley, 68, were both injured in the crash. The Hadley's were by transported by ambulance to the Maine Coast Memorial Hospital. Daniel Hadley was treated and released. Patricia Hadley remained hospitalized and was listed to being in a stable condition. Smith drove away from the scene without stopping. Police said Smith pulled into the Fishnet take-out in Blue Hill where he intended to get some supper (9.3 miles from the crash scene). Trooper David Barnard located Robert Smith at the take-out. Trooper Barnard also located the rear bumper of Daniel Hadley's car imbedded in the grill of Robert Smith's truck. Robert Smith was arrested for aggravated OUI, aggravated assault and leaving the scene of a personal injury accident. Robert Smith denied any knowledge of the crash.

- Tom McLaughlin, WQDY-WALZ News Director -

SAINT CROIX COURIER: Inattention, GPS Unit Blamed For Fatal Crash

2010-04-25T21:09:00.001-07:00

WAWEIG - A combination of driver inattention and reliance on outdated GPS information are suspected factors in a fatal collision at the intersection of highways 127 and 170 on Monday.

Elizabeth Isenor, 78, of Wallace, Nova Scotia died at the scene after the car she was a passenger in struck transport truck.

Isenor and her husband Kendall Isenor, also 78, were travelling east on Highway 170 when Mr. Isenor went through a stop sign striking the trailer portion of the transport truck which was heading north on Highway 127.

"There was a GPS involved," said Const. Mark Walsh.

Walsh suggested that some GPS maps are outdated, with no updates available, or updates not yet installed.

"When you use a GPS it is no excuse for what a driver's responsibility is behind the wheel."

While updates for the GPS systems are needed, many maps, including Garmin's latest map update and the popular online maps from Google have not been updated to include some sections of Highway 1 or related intersection upgrades.

"That is the issue with these devices. How relevant or current is the data in them?" said Department of Transportation (DOT) spokesperson Andrew Holland.

The DOT registered the information on the highway realignment with the registry office on January 2, 2009. From that time on it has been available to the manufacturers of GPS units, through Service New Brunswick.

Although the intersection underwent numerous traffic pattern changes during construction of the new four-lane highway, Monday's collision was only the third incident at the scene since it became the terminus for Highway 170.

Holland said the department recorded an accident in March of 2009, which involved two vehicles, both of which were travelling on Highway 127.

In July of 2009, a vehicle travelling east on 170 ran a stop sign, much the same as Monday's accident, only the injuries were minor in that case.

"This has not been an area prone to collisions."

Senior staff of the DOT were on the scene on Tuesday, investigating what steps are available to make the area safer for motorists.

"Any time there is a major accident at a certain intersection or interchange we automatically look at what is there currently in terms of signage, or stop signs, or lighting or anything like that to see if there is anything that can be done to modify or enhance what is there."

The DOT will meet next week with the regional coroner for further discussion.

"Anything we can do to make that location a little safer we will certainly look at."

The province has no control over the manufacturers of GPS devices, or the maps and software they provide, Holland said.

"That is a non-issue," he said, noting the government does not sell and is not responsible for GPS units or their maps. "We produce our own highway maps. Industry is responsible for their product and services."

The key, he said, is that drivers must be aware of their surroundings at all times.

"At the end of the day it is up to motorist to know where they are. They have to be satisfied they know where they are going."

Holland cited his own experience with a GPS on a trip to Boston where the GPS led him astray twice, including advising him to go down a one-way street.

The investigation is continuing.

- THE SAINT CROIX COURIER -

Pilot Killed Friday In NB Plane Crash

2010-04-23T23:41:00.000-07:00

A pilot with Forest Protection Ltd. [FPL] died Friday when the TBM aircraft he was piloting crashed on takeoff at the Miramichi Airport around 2 p.m.

Ron Clowes was said to be an experienced pilot. He worked for FPL for 10 years. Clowes was the only person in the plane.

The accident is being investigated by the Canadian Transportation Safety Board.

Forest Protection Ltd. is a company owned jointly by the Province of New Brunswick and private stakeholders from the forestry sector. It has offices in Fredericton and Miramichi, and it has a mandate to protect forests with services such as fire management, pest management and aerial surveys.

- Tom McLaughlin, WQDY-WALZ News Director -

BANGOR DAILY NEWS: Attorney For Pastor's Wife Disputes Charges

2010-04-23T09:35:00.000-07:00

JONESPORT, Maine � The attorney for a woman accused of illegally hiding her two daughters from their biological father said Thursday that police have mischaracterized his client�s actions leading up to her arrest.

Machias lawyer Frank Cassidy said Amanda Haag, who was arrested Sunday along with her husband, Colin Haag Jr., was fighting for custody of her 7- and 12-year-old daughters and making no attempt to conceal their whereabouts. Cassidy said Amanda Haag filed a parental rights and responsibility action against the father of her children last month. That filing requires that the father be notified of his children�s location.

"The contention that she was hiding and fleeing the area doesn�t make sense," Cassidy said Thursday. "Why would she file paperwork naming [the father] and making an attempt to contact him?"

Investigators allege that the Haags have lived in several states and that Colin Haag Jr. has been representing himself as a Baptist minister when in fact he is not ordained.

The Haags were arrested Sunday � not Tuesday as previously reported � after police said they found the two girls alone in an Ellsworth hotel room. The discovery of the children came after Colin Haag Sr. told police to look for the girls at the Eagle's Lodge motel in Ellsworth, said Washington County Sheriff Donnie Smith. Haag Sr. claimed he had been held against his will by his son, who allegedly forced him to stay in the basement of various residences they have lived in around the country. Colin Haag Sr. is now staying in a Hancock County homeless shelter.

Colin Jr. and Amanda Haag are being held in the Washington County Jail in Machias, charged with kidnapping and custodial interference, respectively. Colin Haag�s bail is set at $100,000 and Amanda Haag�s at $25,000. Cassidy said he is exploring the possibility of Amanda Haag's release if her family pays the bail.

Police have said that the Haags are married to both each other and separate spouses, a claim Cassidy said he couldn�t confirm nor deny.

"As far as I know and can tell at this point, there is no divorce" between Amanda Haag and her daughters� biological father, Randall Hodges, said Cassidy. "There is some question whether [Amanda Haag] had a legal right to take the children. It's not a good situation."

Smith said Hodges, who The Associated Press reported is from Myrtle Beach, S.C., had been searching for the girls for two years through at least four states. At the time of their arrest Sunday at 1235 Mason's Bay Road in Jonesport, said Smith, the Haags were packing up to move again.

"When we found them it looked like they were ready to leave [the state] again," said Smith. "That�s why the kids were left in Ellsworth. They left the kids in Ellsworth and had gone back to pack up."

Cassidy said the Haags were moving to another rental home in Jonesport, not preparing to leave Maine.

"They were looking to relocate in the area in a house that was a smaller residence," said Cassidy. "That's what they told me."

Cassidy, who is Amanda Haag's court-appointed attorney, said Colin Haag Jr. is represented by Machias lawyer Norman Toffolon. Toffolon could not be reached for comment Thursday, but a woman who answered the phone at his office said he is representing Colin Haag Jr.

Asked whether the Haags had been moving around the country in recent months, as has been alleged by investigators, Cassidy said they have lived in South Carolina and most recently West Virginia.

"They have been living in different states, but not as many as has been alleged," he said. "Colin Haag is a minister and that's why they were moving around. He was in West Virginia recently doing ministry. If they've visited other states, I don't consider that living there."

Police say the Haags are also suspected of stealing from at least one Washington County church. Smith said Thursday that the investigation into the alleged thefts is ongoing, but no charges have been filed.

A spokesman for the Maine Department of Health and Human Services would not confirm or deny whether the department played a role in the case. Police have said the girls were reunited with their father Sunday after the arrests.

- THE BANGOR DAILY NEWS -

Senators Urge NOAA To Conduct Bottom Survey Of Cobscook Bay

2010-04-22T07:22:00.000-07:00

Alarmed by the number of fishermen who have died in Cobscook Bay since December 2008, Senators Susan Collins and Olympia J. Snowe have written a letter to Dr. Jane Lubchenco, Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), calling for a full bottom survey of the bay as soon as possible.

In the letter, Senators Collins and Snowe write that accurate ocean topographic data will help area fishermen better navigate and deploy their fishing gear more safely.

The Senators wrote:

Cobscook Bay, at the easternmost point of the United States, experiences some of the most dynamic ocean conditions in the world. As part of the Bay of Fundy, it has one of the highest tidal ranges on the planet, in excess of 20 feet. As sea water funnels its way past the headlands of Eastport and Lubec, Maine and Campobello Island, New Brunswick, the powerful currents create treacherous and ever changing sea conditions. To help ensure the safety of our fishermen and mariners as they traverse this region, we ask that you authorize a new, comprehensive benthic survey of Cobscook Bay.

Since December 2008, there have been seven fishing-related deaths in Cobscook Bay, and at least one very near miss that could easily have cost three more lives. Many of the area's fishermen believe the frequency of these sinkings is linked to the lack of adequate charts. The last partial bottom survey of the area was conducted in 1899, and in ocean conditions as dynamic as these, we must provide our fishermen with a better picture of what lies beneath the waves.

Therefore, we request that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration conduct a full bottom survey of Maine�s Cobscook Bay as soon as possible. With better ocean topographic data, fishermen in the region will be able to navigate and deploy their fishing gear more safely, and hopefully we can avert the tragic and unnecessary loss of life that has devastated this region in recent months.

- Tom McLaughlin, WQDY-WALZ News Director -

"Pastor" and Wife Charged With Kidnapping

2010-04-21T19:12:00.001-07:00

A man who claimed to be an ordained minister and his wife who were living in Jonesport have been arrested on charges including kidnapping.

On Sunday, the Washington County Sheriff's Office received a report of suspicious activity in the Jonesport area. According to Sheriff Donnie Smith, a man was going door-to-door asking for help.

The man who aroused suspicion was Colin Haag, Sr. Once police spoke with Haag, Sr., he had quite a story to tell.

After investigating Haag, Sr's story, Washington County Sheriff's Department Sgt. Timothy Tabbutt arrested Amanda Haag, 34, for criminal restraint by a parent. Colin Haag, Jr., 34, was also arrested and charged with kidnapping.

Sheriff Smith told WQDY NEWS Wednesday that Colin Haag, Jr, and his wife Amanda had allegedly kept his father captive but that all changed Sunday.

"As they've been travelling around the country, he was made to stay in the basement wherever they lived and he was not allowed out of the house and finally in Jonesport he decided to leave. That's when he contacted authorities," Smith said.

According to a sheriff's office press release, details of the investigation revealed that the Haags had been traveling through numerous states misinforming churches that Mr. Haag [Jr.] was an ordained minister. Also two female children were found at a motel in the Ellsworth area in connection with this case.

"These two children, 12 and 7, were at a motel in Ellsworth and when the officers contacted Hancock County Sheriff's Office to check on these children -- sure enough -- they were there. DHS was contacted and the children were reunited late Tuesday with their biological father who was out of Florida," Smith said.

Authorities are still putting this one together.

"They worked on this the last two days," Smith said. A search warrant was executed at the Jonesport home where the Haag's lived Tuesday night."

"We recovered some of the property that had been reported stolen from different churches that they had been participating in," Smith said.

The churches affected were mostly in western Washington County, according to Smith.

"This is still under investigation but it appears they [Haag's] had been travelling throughout the country assuming different names and enrolling the children in school under different names and the biological father had been looking for them for a couple of years," Smith said.

Amanda Jo Haag is the biological mother of the two girls, Smith said.

As for the couple, Smith said, "they claim to be married --- they may be married, but I believe the investigation reveals that they are actually still married to other people -- but that's another issue."

According to Sheriff Donnie Smith, Colin Haag, Jr. is not an ordained minister.

"He's convinced people with false documentation that he's created," Smith said.

The Haag's made their first court appearance Wednesday afternoon. Amanda Haag's bail was set at $25,000.00 surety or $5,000.00 cash. Bail for Colin Haag, Jr was set at $100,000.00 surety or $25,000.00 cash.

Asked if he knew where the couple was really from Smith said, "at the present time Jonesport. That's where we executed the warrant [Tuesday] night, but they've been from everywhere. We've talked with authorities in Florida, North Carolina, they've been in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, so where they're actually from I'm not really sure anybody really knows."

Amanda Jo and Colin Haag, Jr. were still being held at the Washington County Jail Wednesday night.

- Tom McLaughlin, WQDY-WALZ News Director -

NB ATV Federation Operation Lifesaver

2010-04-21T18:51:00.003-07:00

The New Brunswick All Terrain Vehicle Federation (NBATVF) is pleased to participate in Operation Lifesaver provincial awareness campaign.

Operation Lifesaver is an active, public education program designed to heighten general public awareness of the potential hazards of highway/railway crossings and to urge drivers and pedestrians to be cautious when in their vicinity. The program also seeks to inform the public of the dangers associated with trespassing on railway property. The New Brunswick ATV Federation is an important partner of the program in the province. "We will be out to educate present and future ATV users of the danger involved when riding around railways," commented Federation President Daniel Boucher.

NBATVF representatives will participate in the campaign on April 23 at the St. Stephen/Milltown Border Crossing.

NY Sen Schumer Wants Northern Border Drug Plan

2010-04-21T18:51:00.001-07:00

BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) - New York Sen. Charles Schumer says he'll work to drum up support from colleagues in other northern border states for a comprehensive plan to combat drug smuggling along the U.S.-Canadian border.
Schumer says Wednesday he'll introduce legislation soon to require the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy to devise and implement an anti-narcotics strategy similar to the one in place for the southern border. He says statistics show cocaine, heroin and marijuana seizures have increased along the
U.S.-Canadian border since 2007 and that the border is now the primary gateway for Ecstasy trafficked into the United States.
The legislation will be sponsored in the House by New York Rep. Bill Owens, whose district spans the top of the state.

- THE ASSOCIATED PRESS -

Charges In Bizarre Kidnapping & Scam Case

2010-04-21T09:28:00.000-07:00

Two people have been charged in connection with a bizarre case involving kidnapping and other alleged crimes.

On Sunday April 18, the Washington County Sheriff's Office received a complaint of suspicious activity in the Jonesport area.

As a result of an investigation and information provided by Colin Haag, Sr, Sgt. Timothy Tabbutt arrested Amanda Jo Haag, 34, for criminal restraint by a parent. Colin Haag, Jr, 34, was charged with kidnapping.

Details of the investigation revealed that the Haags had been traveling through numerous states misinforming churches that Mr. Colin Haag, Jr. was an ordained minister. Also two female children, ages 12 and 7, were found at a motel in the Ellsworth area in connection with this case.

With the assistance of the Hancock County Sheriff's Office and the Department of Human Services, the children have been reunited with their biological father who had been attempting to locate them for over two years.

Sheriff Donnie Smith told WQDY NEWS that Amanda Jo Haag is the biological mother of the two children.

As a result of this investigation, a search warrant was executed at a residence in Jonesport and evidence has been retrieved. Further investigations are continuing and additional charges are expected.

The Haag's made their first court appearance Wednesday afternoon. The bail for Amanda was set at $25,000.00 surety or $5,000.00 cash. For Colin Haag, Jr, it was set at $100,000.00 surety or $25,000.00 cash.

- Tom McLaughlin, WQDY-WALZ News Director -

Maine State Police Troop J Weekly Report

2010-04-20T11:11:00.000-07:00

Harassing phone calls, loud music, stolen drugs, violations of conditions of release, putting on the wrong pants to go to jail in [the ones with a baggy of marijuana] and other tales of woe and intrigue are among the incidents covered by Troop J in the past week. Here are some:

April 12:

Trooper Jessica Shorey handled a harassment complaint in Sullivan where an 18-year- old man was warned not to harass a 46-year-old woman via telephone.

Trooper Andy Foss handled a protection order violation complaint in Pembroke where a 40-year-old man reported that a 43-year-old man made rude gestures towards him while he drove by the residence earlier in the day. There were notable differences between the two accounts of this incident. This case will be turned over to the District Attorneys Office for review.

Trooper Greg Burns assisted agents from the US Dept of Defense and US Marshall Service with an arrest in Cutler. The man was located and arrested without incident on a federal warrant.

Trooper Greg Roy investigated a criminal trespassing complaint in Tremont. A man reported that a 45-year-old man had been trespassing on his property. As a result of the investigation, the was summonsed for criminal trespassing.

April 13:

Troope Christopher Smith investigated a report of an assault at the Otis General Store. Trooper Smith met with the female caller who reported that she was assaulted by a man. The man was later located and interviewed. This case will be reviewed by the District Attorney's Office for possible criminal charges. Sgt. Timothy Varney assisted with the incident.

Trooper Jessica Shorey and Trooper Daniel Ryan responded to Mariaville for a report of a suicidal subject threatening to hang himself. The man was transported to EMMC for a mental health evaluation.

April 14:

Trooper David Barnard responded to a residence in Eastbrook. The caller reported someone broke into her apartment and took her prescription of Oxycodone.

Trooper David Barnard and Trooper Christopher Smith responded to a residence in Lamoine for a noise complaint. Several neighbors were complaining that a male was playing loud music. This is an ongoing problem with the man -- all hours of the night he will turn the music up for 10 to 15 minutes and then turn it off. When police arrived at the trailer the music was turned down and the man would not answer the door.

Trooper Christopher Smith responded to Eastbrook for the reports of two out of control 11-year-olds. Trooper Smith met with the caseworker and mother and also spoke with juveniles about their conduct. One of the children was later transported to Maine Coast Memorial Hospital by her mother for a mental health evaluation.

Trooper Jessica Shorey handled a theft complaint in Sullivan where 2 bicycles were stolen from a shed belonging to Sumner High School. Investigation continues.

Trooper Andy Foss handled a harassment complaint in Wesley where a man was warned not to harass a woman.

Trooper Andy Foss arrested an eighteen-year-old woman in Lubec for stealing drugs and theft by unauthorized taking or transfer.

April 15:

Trooper Kimberly Sawyer received a criminal mischief complaint from a woman in Princeton reporting that someone had slashed two of her tires. A suspect is known. Investigation continues.

Trooper Kimberly Sawyer received a criminal mischief complaint from a Danforth man who reported that someone had shot his windshield and a side window of one of his vehicles sometime since the last large snowfall. Investigation continues.

Trooper Kimberly Sawyer received a burglary complaint from a man from Danforth that his home had been broken into. The caller's Acer computer, 36" flat screen Phillips TV, some DVD's, DVD player, and 2 Uniden two way radios were stolen. His window of his home and of one of his vehicles was shot with a BB gun. Trooper Sawyer does have suspects.

Trooper Michael Southard responded to the Old County Road in Orland for a theft / burglary complaint. The caller reported having $650 in cash stolen from his trailer. Suspects have been identified and the investigation continues.

Trooper Michael Southard responded to Berry Cove Lane in Lamoine for a theft / burglary complaint. The caller reported having items stolen from a house he was building. Items taken were an antique copper stove vent used above a gas range and an antique sink which also contained copper. The incident occurred over the course of a seven day period before being reported. The case is still under investigation.

Trooper Staci Carpenter received a report of a disorderly conduct complaint from a woman who resides on Dyers Bay Road in Steuben. The caller reported that a 46-year-old woman entered her residence without permission, told her to leave the property and assaulted her. The caller had several dig marks on her right ear and her left arm. The woman was located at her residence on Pigeon Hill Road and was arrested for assault and criminal trespass.

April 16:

Trooper Greg Burns responded to Robbinston to assist Maine Forest Ranger Courtney Hammond. Ranger Hammond had located two vehicles that were "mudding" and had caused damage to some private property. Investigation revealed that the persons involved had also been consuming or possessing alcohol and were all under 21. Charged with illegal possession of liquor by a minor were two 19-year-old males from Wilder and Fairlee Vermont. Two people from maine were also charged -- a 20-year-old man from Wells and a 19-year-old woman from St. Albans. The operators of the trucks were charged by Forestry for causing damage to crop lands or logging roads. The four are all college students from Calais.

Troopers Greg Burns and Michael Southard assisted WCSO Lt. Travis Willey at a complaint in Trescott where two intoxicated persons were removed from a residence.

Trooper Greg Roy received a theft complaint from a man from Deer Isle. The caller reported that copper piping and other metals had been taken from his property. The investigation continues.

April 17:

Trooper Miles Carpenter arrested a 33-year-old Lubec man for domestic assault after assaulting his girlfriend at his residence.

Trooper Staci Carpenter arrested a 42-year-old woman in Marshfield for violating her conditions of release. She tested positive for Oxycontin and was on bail for a pending drug charge. She was transported to the Washington County jail without incident.

Trooper Jason Fowler assisted Machias Police with an arrest in Northfield. A 44-year-old man assaulted his ex in Machias earlier in the evening and was arrested at his residence in Northfield. A baggy of marijuana was also found in the pants the man put on to go to jail.

April 18:

Trooper Jason Fowler took a report of an assault which occurred at Budrow's Trailer Park off the Eastern Cut Off Road in Princeton. A juvenile had assaulted a female and her mother at separate times. The mother had a cut on her eye and a black left eye. The juvenile was identified and she was located the next evening and was summonsed for two counts of assault and illegal possession of liquor by a juvenile.

Trooper Jason Fowler arrested a 32-year-old Princeton man for operating under the influence on the Eastern Cut Off Road. The man was operating a pickup with his 7- year-old son in the passenger seat at the time of the stop. He was also summonsed for possession of a usable amount of marijuana. During field sobriety tests Trooper Fowler observed a white powdery residue up the man's nose. The substance was Vicodin for which he did not have a prescription. The man's ex-wife and mother of the child was called to pick up the boy. Indian Township Police assisted.

Trooper Michael Southard and Sgt. Alden Bustard responded to a domestic dispute at a residence in Sullivan. The man and his wife were having an argument over the man's alleged infidelity. There was no criminal activity to the call but the man agreed to stay away from the house for the day so the two could cool down.

Trooper Greg Burns investigated a theft from a camp in Cooper. Camp owner reported several small engines and other various items stolen from the property. The owner believes all items were stolen for scrap metal. Investigation continues.

Sgt. Alden Bustard, Trooper Greg Roy and Detective Micah Perkins responded to a report of a possible sexual assault that had occurred at a residence in Trenton. The investigation disclosed that several subjects were at a residence and had been drinking all night. The victim's boyfriend was also missing some money. As a result of the investigation, a 25-year-old man and his 20-year-old brother were both arrested for violation of conditions of release. They both were on bail on various charges with conditions that prohibited them from possessing or consuming alcohol. The other matters are still under investigation by Detective Perkins.

- Tom McLaughlin, WQDY-WALZ News Director -

RCMP Investigate Fatal Crash

2010-04-20T10:17:00.000-07:00

A Nova Scotia woman was killed and another person injured in a noontime collision Monday east of St. Stephen.

District 1 RCMP said the crash occurred at the intersection of Highways 170 and 127.

The victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

Police said their preliminary investigation indicates that the vehicle in which the deceased woman was a passenger failed to stop at an intersection with the 127 Highway while traveling eastbound on the 170 Highway, and as a result collided with the trailer portion of a northbound tractor trailer unit. The driver of the vehicle suffered non-life threatening injuries and was transported to hospital.

The driver of the tractor trailer unit was uninjured.

- Tom McLaughlin, WQDY-WALZ News Director -

Mudding, Littering, Wildfire Investigation Keeps Rangers Busy

2010-04-19T18:33:00.000-07:00

Maine Forest Rangers were busy over the weekend tending to a variety of issues as well as investigating the recent arson wildfires.

There were a few more state forest rangers patrolling the areas of Perry, Pembroke and Robbinston.

On Friday and Saturday there were a couple of incidents that didn't involve fire -- but they sure involved the state forest rangers.

Both incidents took place in Robbinston.

Mudding on a tree farm

One incident was discovered late Friday afternoon according to Ranger Courtney Hammond.

He told WQDY NEWS, "We had a presence there this past week because of the numerous fires that have occurred in the Robbinston, Perry, Pembroke area and we came across some folks that were out four-wheeling with their pick-up trucks, spinning up the road, and driving off the road in the mud and abusing other folk's property. They ran down some Christmas trees there in the Johnson Tree Farm. We came across them and those folks were charged with damaging crop land, forest land or forest management roads with a motor vehicle which is a civil violation," Hammond said.

"They'll be hopefully fined and also have to pay restitution for the damage that they did to both the Christmas trees and also the road," Hammond added.

There were two pickup trucks with two people in each vehicle. Both trucks were owned by people from Vermont. The ranger said they were attending school locally.

Littering - Household trash dumped at turn-out

In an incident Saturday, eight bags of household garbage were dumped at the southbound side of the US Route 1 turn-out at Mill Cove, just south of the intersection with the Ridge Road.

[LEFT- Trash in the turnout, looking south - WQDY NEWS PHOTO]

"The person responsible for dumping the trash there at Mill Cove on Route 1 in Robbinston has been charged with littering," Hammond said.

"And there was a witness who saw the person dumping the trash and provided us with the vehicle description and a plate number and a description of the woman that was responsible for dumping the trash."

Rangers Gary Cook and George Harris were fairly close by.

[RIGHT- Yuk - it's leaking! - WQDY NEWS PHOTO]

Hammond said the trash was returned to Celeste Dipiero on the River Road in Calais. A summons for littering accompanied the eight bags she allegedly left at the turn-out.

"It's a civil violation, she'll be charged in district court and typically the fine is around $200. Oftentimes, we'll also ask the judge to either order them to clean it up or to pay the restitution or the cost to have somebody else clean up that trash."

There wasn't much lag time between the dumping, the witness calling in the complaint complete with a description of the vehicle and the plate number and when rangers returned the garbage and served her the summons.

"We aim to please," Hammond said.

[ABOVE- Rangers Gary Cook and George Harris prepare to return eight bags of household trash to the Calais household from whence it came -WQDY NEWS PHOTO]

The rangers aren't fooling around, though.

"We take the littering and dumping very seriously and attempt to prosecute those folks that do that," Hammond said.

Rangers Cook and Harris were some of the personnel brought in from elsewhere in the state to assist local rangers in spreading the word to residents about the arson wildfires plaguing the area.

"We were actually going door-to-door in our campaign to let people know what was happening in the area with regard to the fires and also to try to solicit any information that they might have regarding those fires and to pass out our Arson Reward Program 800 number that folks could call," Ranger Hammond explained.

That number is 1-800-987-0257.

"That information is kept in strict confidence and there's also some reward money available for folks that provide us with information that might lead to the arrest or conviction of person or persons responsible for setting these fires," Hammond said.

- Tom McLaughlin, WQDY-WALZ News Director -

Historic Campobello Property Preserved

2010-04-19T15:15:00.003-07:00

Lupine Lodge, a historic property on Campobello Island, will be preserved for the long-term through an agreement that will transfer the property to the Roosevelt Campobello International Park Commission from the Department of Tourism and Parks.

The commission, which includes both Canadian and American representatives, has expertise in preserving historical assets.

"The Lupine Lodge needs significant infrastructure upgrades and the commission is in a position to make this happen," said Hedard Albert, acting minister of tourism and parks.

Built in 1915, the lodge, also known as Adam's Estate, was once the summer home of Frederick Adams, cousin of the late U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt. During the past decade, the lodge and restaurant have been privately operated under concession agreements with the Department of Tourism and Parks.

"Our objectives are to attract more visitors and more conferences to the Island," said Skip Cole, superintendent/executive secretary of the Roosevelt Campobello International Park. "The addition of the Adam's Estate fits perfectly into the commissions goals."

The Roosevelt Campobello International Park is the largest employer on the island and is owned, funded, staffed and administered by people from both Canada and the United States. The park has tens of thousands of visitors each year.

The Department of Tourism and Parks will continue to manage and retain ownership of Herring Cove Provincial Park and the Herring Cove Golf Course.

- Tom McLaughlin, WQDY-WALZ News Director -

Cancer Society Recognizes Washington County Relay

2010-04-18T08:54:00.001-07:00

The American Cancer Society has acknowledged Washington County for its high cancer survivor participation in the 2009 Relay for Life. The percentage of participants who were cancer survivors last year was higher than anywhere else in Maine.

"One purpose of the Relay is to honor the survivors of cancer," says Calais Relay Co-Chairperson Marianne Moore. "Having so many survivors take part is another sign that we're winning this fight."

The Relay for Life itself will take place starting at 6 p.m. on Friday, June 11th. That evening, anti-cancer enthusiasts will gather at Washington County Community College for the eleventh local all-night walking relay. The Eastern Washington County event raises thousands of dollars to continue scientific research for new weapons against the nation�s second leading cause of death.

On Saturday, April 24th, the Lane Construction Corporation Relay Team will hold a $5.00 car wash at The First National Bank on Main Street to raise money as part of their efforts.

Anyone considering forming a new team for this year's Relay is invited to the next planning meeting, at Calais Elementary School at 5:00 pm on Thursday, April 29th.

People looking for more information can view the Facebook page for the Calais and Eastern Washington County Relay for Life; visit the official page at www.relayforlife.org/washingtonme; or contact Marianne Moore at 454-0501.

Those who want to help, but who can not be there June 11th and 12th, can help in the fight by sponsoring Relay walkers with donations to the American Cancer Society.

Suspicious Wildfires In Perry, Pembroke And Robbinston

2010-04-16T17:47:00.000-07:00

This time of year can be a busy one for firefighters dealing with outdoor fires that get away from a homeowner or wildfires that were meant to get away.

But there seems to be more wildfire activity of late says the Maine Forest Service.

Over the last few weeks there has been an increase in the number of suspicious wildfires in the Downeast area, specifically in the Perry, Pembroke and Robbinston areas.

Fires have been set intentionally and have potential for doing significant damage to forest resources and homes.

As a result, Maine Forest Rangers are continuing their investigations and have increased the number of patrols in the area. They have also increased the amount of firefighting equipment in the event additional fires occur.

Members of the community can help by taking note of any suspicious activity in these areas.

Authorities are looking for vehicle descriptions, license plate numbers and descriptions of suspicious individuals seen in forested areas.

Please call the Maine Forest Service at Jonesboro at 434-2621 or if you have any information specific to wildfire arson, call the Wildfire Arson Reward Program Hotline at 1-800-987-0257. The hotline is specifically for wildfire arson information only.

- Tom McLaughlin, WQDY-WALZ News Director -

RCMP Divers Find Body Of Missing NB Man

2010-04-16T17:42:00.000-07:00

UPDATE: Late Friday afternoon, RCMP divers found the body of a man who had gone missing after a boat capsized.

Grand Bay-Westfield RCMP said the body of Scott Jefrey Pineo of Quispamsis, was found close to where his boat capsized Thursday around lunch time. J Division RCMP Dive Team, RCMP Helicopter and the Department of Fisheries and Oceans participated in the search.

A second man had managed to swim to shore after the boat overturned.

Authorities said the two men had been fishing on the river when their boat capsized.

The initial investigation suggested neither man was wearing a life jacket.

The Canadian Air Force Search and Rescue helicopter from Greenwood, Nova Scotia, Grand Bay-Westfield Fire Department and ambulance personnel from Grand Bay-Westfield assisted in the search.

- Tom McLaughlin, WQDY-WALZ News Director -

SAINT CROIX COURIER: Federal Rule Quibbles Over Kibble

2010-04-16T17:31:00.000-07:00

ST. STEPHEN, NB - When was the last time you took your dog or cat shopping?

If you plan to buy their pet food in Calais, you may want to make sure Fido or Fluffy tags along.

A Canada Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) regulation now requires pet owners to have the animal that will eat the imported food accompany them to the border when they re-enter Canada.

Canada Border Services Agency officers in St. Stephen recently started enforcing the CFIA regulation which was introduced in July of 2009 as part of enhanced feed ban to prevent animal diseases from being introduced into Canada. Pet food can be a source for some diseases, like bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE), or mad cow disease.

A CFIA spokesperson said the pet food rule was introduced to accommodate visitors to Canada either vacationing in or passing through the country.

The regulation has angered local pet owners and raised the ire of one Calais businessman.

"It's just plain stupidity," said Clyde Eldridge, owner and operator of C&E Feeds, a Calais business that sells livestock and pet food to many Canadian customers.

"They have no common sense," said Eldridge. "I'm not blaming the Customs officers. They don�t want to enforce it, but they have to."

Eldridge said his customers come from various parts of New Brunswick, including Saint John and Moncton. In the past three weeks, some customers have returned to his store after encountering the repercussions of the new regulation at the border. He's given them their money back, he said.

Eldridge is so annoyed by the regulation he's spoken with NB Southwest MP Greg Thompson. Thompson's office has promised to have an answer for him, he said, by the end of this week.

"I spoke with somebody at CFIA and they said the regulation has been in effect for a year. Why are they enforcing it now?" asked Eldridge.

The regulation stipulates travellers may bring into Canada a "personal import" of pet food, limited to 20 kilograms, if the import meets all of the following requirements:

The pet food or product must be of United States origin and be commercially packaged.

The pet food or product must be in the possession of the traveller at the time of entry from the U.S.

The animal that will eat the imported product must accompany the traveller at the time of entry.

The imported product is fed only to the animal that accompanied the traveller into Canada.

Kevin Polk, an employee at C&E Feeds doesn't think much of the regulation.

"What if somebody had a vicious dog? Do they have to bring it with them? What happens if he bites somebody on the way?" asked Polk.

"Or if they have a sick cat? Do they have to bring it too?"

Polk suggested Customs officers will be exposed to potential dog bites and cat scratches if people have to abide by the regulation.

"It's not the Customs officers to blame. They are just doing their job."

Local pet owners who called the Courier Weekend newsroom to complain about the regulation didn't want their names used for fear it would make their cross border pet food shopping trips more difficult.

A CFIA spokesperson provided the following Internet links to provide the public with more information.
Links:

laws.justice.gc.ca/en/H-3.3

inspection.gc.ca/english/anima/heasan/disemala/bseesb/enhren/enhrene.shtml

- THE SAINT CROIX COURIER -

Recovery Act Dollars Help Washington County Communities

2010-04-16T11:37:00.000-07:00

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has announced that rural communities in 32 states will benefit from loans and grants provided through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

The $193 million in Recovery Act projects being announced are funded through USDA Rural Development's Community Facilities Program and will be matched with $68.5 million from other sources. Funding of individual recipients is contingent upon their meeting the terms of the loan or grant agreement.

In Washington County, three community facilities will receive Community Facility Grant funds through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

Calais Regional Hospital has been selected to receive a grant in the amount of $200,000 to purchase a new digital mammography machine. The new equipment will interface with their current information technology, allowing images to be remotely viewed by specialists in other locations if needed. Images can be transmitted electronically with no loss of clarity, thereby potentially enhancing the speed and accuracy of the diagnoses. This will reduce the time and expense to both the patient and to the hospital.

Jonesport Volunteer Fire Department has been selected to receive a grant in the amount of $200,000 to construct a new fire station. The current facility is unsafe, and volunteers are unable to park their fire and rescue vehicles in the building because of issues with the floor and a foundation that has cracked. This has caused the walls to separate from the foundation and allowed water to seep into the insulation causing a severe mold problem. The new facility will have three truck bays, a training room, and an office and storage area. The design will also allow for future expansion. The facility will be built on land provided by the community. The new facility will be constructed at 44 Main Street, Jonesport.

Pleasant Point Passamaquoddy Reservation has been selected to receive a grant in the amount of $229,700 to improve the Point Passamaquoddy Reservation Health Center by making the following upgrades to the facility: replacement of a leaking roof, installation of a sprinkler system throughout the facility, installation of a new heating system, repair and upgrades to the ventilation system, and construction of a roof over the Emergency Room ramp.

USDA Rural Development has Area Offices located in Presque Isle, Bangor, Lewiston,
and Scarborough, as well as a State Office, located in Bangor. There are 83 employees working to deliver the agency�s Housing, Business, and Community Programs, which are designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, and farmers, and improve the quality of life in rural Maine.

In Fiscal Year 2009, USDA Rural Development invested over $420 million in the state of Maine. Further information on rural programs is available at a local USDA Rural Development office or by visiting USDA Rural Development's web site at http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/me.

- Tom McLaughlin, WQDY-WALZ News Director -