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Serving to Better-Connect Communities in New Brunswick’s Upper St. John River Valley
Volume 3 Issue 4
RIVER VALLEY SUN April 15 to May 15, 2021
FREE ONLINE @ www.rivervalleysun.ca
HELPING BABY ZANDER GET ON HIS FEET Friends seeking financial, emotional, moral support for Woodstock family BY JIM DUMVILLE
I
t’s Wednesday. Another trip to the IWK hospital in Halifax and back home to Woodstock. Another day of fatigue and wondering when the trips can stop, and the situation improves. But, Wednesdays are just another day of pain and discomfort for eight-month-old Zander and another day of stress and worry for his Mom and Dad, Kishawna Pollard and Matthew Laskey. Zander’s pain and his parents’ stress became the daily norm since the baby’s birth on June 24, 2020. Zander was born with bilateral club feet. At least that was the immediate diagnosis. His treatment took several twists and turns since Zander spent the first five days of his life in the natal intensive care unit at Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital in Fredericton. Zander was only two weeks old when doctors placed the first casts on his tiny legs and feet. Over the past eight months, the Woodstock parents of four, including Zander and another on the way, shouldered the financial and emotional burden as their baby’s treatment showed progress, then fell back. Kishawna described diagnosis and treatment to date as “hit and miss.” She said obstacles and
relapses often intervened to hinder Zander’s progress. Meanwhile, the loving parents’ stress levels and financial burdens continue to climb. Erica Arbeau watched her friends face the daily burdens and recognized the need to provide the two loving parents with emotional, financial and moral support. While amazed by Kishawna’s and Matthew’s resolve and strength, Arbeau knew they should not have to deal with the situation alone. “She’s a supermom,” said Arbeau. Still, she understood even supermoms have limits. Arbeau convinced Kishawna and Matthew to allow her to launch a GoFundMe page on their behalf to support the financial challenges of the regular trips to Halifax and the cost of special equipment, especially the specialized boots and bars Zander requires. “I am a friend of theirs, just trying to help as much as I can,” Arbeau wrote on the GoFundMe page. “This baby boy has a long, difficult road ahead of him.” She then detailed some of the medical challenges Zander faced and continues to face. In Fredericton, two
weeks after Zander’s birth, doctors began trying six casts, leading to a pair of boots and bars on his feet. Unfortunately, the doctor decided Zander did not appear ready for the casts, telling his parents he may need tenotomy surgery, referring the family to an orthopedics doctor at the IWK Children’s Hospital in Halifax. The specialist in Halifax believed a few more casts might begin correcting the problem. The weekly trips from Woodstock to Halifax every Wednesday started. Once again, the family, on doctors’ recommendation, attempted to try the boots and bars. The effort again proved unsuccessful. In December 2020, after trying three different sizes of boots and two types of bars, Zander’s family travelled to the IWK, where medical staff designed removable custom splints. Baby Zander had to wear the splints 23 hours per day, allowing only one hour of free time, Unfortunately, explained Kishawna, one of Zander’s feet did not tolerate the custom sprints. She said the doctor told them Zander’s right foot, which he described as metatarsus adductus, a deformity of which
Zander still manages time to smile. His mother Kishawna says he deals with the pain and discomfort as much as a baby can, but “he definitely wants to be held. (Submitted photo)
sometimes does not require treatment, could be left untreated for some time. For a while, the family’s hopes began to rise. In mid-January, the expected trip back to Halifax to get a new set of splints custom made for the growing baby hit the COVID-19 roadblock. With the Red Alert Level in place, only medical emergencies qualified for trips to the IWK. Unfortunately, Zander’s struggles didn’t fit that description. Left untreated for two months, which included the COVID delay, Kishawna said Zander relapsed. “Baby Zander is back to square one,” she said. See ZANDER on page 2
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2
ZANDER
Continued from page 1
With the COVID-travel restrictions lifted, Zander and his Mom and Dad or Mom and grandfather are back to Halifax every Wednesday, where medical staff fit the baby for a new cast. Speaking to the River Valley Sun on Sunday, March 28, Keshawna said the previous Friday, Upper River Valley Hospital removed Zander’s cast, but they would head to Halifax the following Wednesday to have another one placed. Between the latest cast’s removal and a new one in Halifax, Kishawna said, she used fungal cream prescriptions to treat infections on the baby’s legs. Kishawna told the River Valley Sun Zander would head to the IWK for three days in early April for further treatment, including a possible double tenotomy, a surgery, where they snip the tendon on the backs of his feet. Zander will undergo other diagnostic tests during his three-day visit to pinpoint whether other medical conditions are at play. “This is a lot for one little baby to have to go
through,” said Arbeau on her GoFundMe page. “This is a painful process, and with adding surgeries to the equation, it will be even worse. Not just for Baby Zander, but for the entire family to have to watch him suffer going through such an ordeal at such a young age.” Asked how Zander deals with the pain and discomfort, Kishawna said, “he definitely wants to be held.” She said Zander’s three older brothers try to comfort him, adding they like to write and draw on his casts. Kishawna said her oldest boy would turn six soon and be heading to kindergarten, noting she held him back from kindergarten this year because of COVID-19. She acknowledged Zander’s medical problems put a strain on the family finances, noting Matthew has to take time off work to accompany them to Halifax. She said she tried to work last year but soon realized it served little purpose when calculating daycare costs into the equation. Added to travel, lodging, and meal costs, Kishawna said, the bar and boots’ price runs up to $1,000, with at least an
IN CRISIS?
Here are the numbers to call:
RCMP/Woodstock Police 911 Upper River Valley Hospital 375-5900 Hôtel Dieu – Perth-Andover 273-7100 Woodstock Mental Health 325-4419 Perth-Andover Mental Health 273-4701 After Hours Mobile Crisis 1-888-667-0444 CHIMO 1-800-667-5005 Telecare 811 Nackawic Health Centre 575-6600 Tobique Valley Comm. Health 356-6600 Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868 Dept. of Social Development 1-833-733-7835
Help for DRUG ADDICTION
Zander has worn casts, splints, and other equipment most of his young life. Zander was born with bilateral club feet. (Submitted photo)
additional $300 for each upgrade. Adding to the families stress levels, Arbeau updated the GoFundMe page on April 10 to say that the family just heard last week that the apartment building where they live is up for sale. Those interested in helping Zander and his family can find the GoFundMe page at Fundraiser for Kishawna Dawn Pollard by Erica
Arbeau : Medical Help for Baby Zander (gofundme. com) Arbeau said anyone wishing to give a direct monetary donation or donate gas cards and food gift cards for travelling and such could contact her directly at Kodagirl83@ gmail.com, and she will pick up the donations. She added people could send email transfers to the same address.
Left: One of Zander’s feet. The Woodstock toddler was born with bilateral club feet. Right: Zander’s parents, Kishawna Pollard and Matthew Laskey. (Submitted photos)
LOVE THE RIVER VALLEY SUN? WANT TO SUPPORT US? HERE’S HOW! People often tell us they would gladly pay for the River Valley Sun, and that we should charge for our publication. We continue to work hard to provide a FREE, quality newspaper so EVERYONE can enjoy our publication, in print and online. We don’t want that to change. BUT, if you do want to support our efforts to serve our community, we do have a Patreon page. You can make donations at www.patreon.com/rivervalleysun The River Valley Sun is a free, editorially independent monthly newspaper serving the Upper St. John River Valley of New Brunswick. “Our mission is to share feature stories, a variety of viewpoints, and information about local community events, minor sports, and municipal news that isn’t always covered by mainstream media. We believe a community is stronger when people know and understand their neighbours.” Editorial Policy: The River Valley Sun welcomes letters on subjects of interest to our readers and prints columns on a variety of topics. Use of any material is at the discretion of the editors, and we reserve the right to omit or edit letters to meet space requirements, for clarity, or to avoid libel or invasion of privacy. Letters and columns published do not necessarily reflect the editorial policies or beliefs of the newspaper. The River Valley Sun follows Canadian Press Style guidelines.
Hope for Wellness Helpline 1-855-242-3310 The Hope for Wellness Help Line offers immediate help to all Indigenous peoples across Canada. It is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to offer counselling and crisis intervention. Woodstock Addictions and Mental Health 506-325-4419 Mon-Fri 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Perth-Andover Addictions and Mental Health 506-273-4701 Mon-Fri 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Mental Health Mobile Crisis Unit 1-888-667-0444 - 7 days a week from 2 - 10 pm Inpatient Detoxification Services: access by self-referral only; all admissions are voluntary. The detoxification unit provides inpatient treatment for the withdrawal from mood altering substances such as alcohol, cocaine, opiates and other drugs. Fredericton Detoxification Unit 506-452-5525 / Located at 65 Brunswick St., Fredericton, NB A 10-bed unit that provides medical support, education, and recovery planning for substance abuse and gambling. Phone 452-5525; accepts messages only, calls are returned to plan admissions Monday through Friday. Miramichi Detoxification Unit 506-623-6175 / Located at 500 Water St., Miramichi. NB. Moncton Detoxification Unit 506-856-2333 / Located at 81 Albert St., Moncton, NB. Ridgewood Addiction Services 506-674-4300 / Located at 416 Bay St., South Bay, Saint John, NB provides a range of services for individuals, youth and family members affected by substance abuse and gambling. Residential rehabilitation facilities Ridgewood Centre (Saint John) 506-647-4300 / 416 Bay St., South Bay, Saint John, NB Campbellton Regional Addiction Services 506-789-7055 / 53 Gallant Dr., Campbellton, NB Rising Sun Treatment Centre (First Nations) 506-627-4626 / 31 Riverview Rd., Eel Ground, NB Portage Atlantic 1-888-735-9800 / Cassidy Lake, NB, is a nonprofit organization established in 1995, operates a residential drug addiction rehabilitation centre for Atlantic Canada youth (14-21) in New Brunswick. Early Recovery Group, Woodstock - each Wednesday (unless school is closed due to weather) from 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. at Bicentennial Boardroom (1st Floor), 200 King Street, Bicentennial Place, Woodstock, NB Early Recovery Group in Perth-Andover - each Tuesday at 1 p.m. at the Mental Health and Addictions at 35F Tribe Rd., Perth-Andover, NB Harvest House Woodstock hosts MAMA Meetings (Mothers Against Meth Addiction) on Mondays at 7 pm. This is a women-only group, providing a safe place for women struggling with family members whose lives are being destroyed by drug abuse. For more information contact Natasha Smith at 323-9315. *In an emergency, call 911 or visit a local ER*
Law Enforcement Woodstock Town Police: (506) 325-4601 RCMP, Woodstock area: 325-3000 (For immediate help: 1-888-506-7267) RCMP, Nackawic area, (Fredericton dispatch): 357-4300 (For immediate help: 1-888-506-1472) Call 911 in an emergency! Crimestoppers: 1-800-222-8477
Animal Control
Town of Woodstock Police (will dispatch help) 325-4601 York County Officer Randy Casey 459-7831 Rural Areas call the NBSPCA 1-877-722-1522
River Valley Sun Box 1000, Woodstock, NB, E7M 0E9 (506) 325-2552 MANAGING EDITOR: Jim Dumville (506) 325-8523 jim@rivervalleysun.ca PUBLISHER/DESIGN: Theresa Blackburn (506) 324-5700 theresa@rivervalleysun.ca PUBLISHER/DISTRIBUTION: Stephen Chisholm (506) 324-5711 www.rivervalleysun.ca ISSN # 2562-3893 *Unauthorized bulk removal of the River Valley Sun from any public location, or tampering with our distribution, including unauthorized inserts, is prohibited.
RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA
Upper River Valley Hospital Foundation
3
Building on a rich philanthropic history
Introduction
By Jim Dunville, RVS
A
fter several years of absence of a hospital foundation in Carleton County, the Upper River Valley Hospital Foundation restored a fundraising operation to enhance health-care delivery for the region. Over the next several issues, the River Valley Sun will outline the foundation efforts. We begin with a background of healthcare-related philanthropy and the new foundation’s makeup and mandate. Future stories will include further historical background, including contributions in northern Carleton County and updates of equipment and training purchases to improve health-care delivery at the Upper River Valley Hospital. The River Valley Sun extends our appreciation to URVHF chair Dr. Wayne McLaughlin, vice-chair Dr. William Mutrie, foundation member and URVH facilities manager Sherry Leach, and Administrative Assistant Carol Boyd for their assistance in our efforts.
History of URV Medical Philanthropy By URVH Foundation Chair Dr. Wayne Wayne McLauglin and Vice-Chair Dr. William Mutrie
T
he Upper St. John River Valley reflects a long history of philanthropy playing a significant role in providing Upper River Valley citizens medical care above the baseline otherwise available without Upper River Valley citizens’ and businesses’ support. The following is a brief overview of that support. If readers know of further information, we encourage them to respond to the editor with details to complete this record. Woodstock philanthropy got off to a great start thanks to L.P. Fisher, a successful local solicitor who initiated the L.P. Fisher Hospital (1911-1954) via donation of his expansive house replacing the Carleton County Hospital. Fisher also donated the school in his name located just above the decommissioned Woodstock High School on Green Street and the original Carleton County Vocational School on Chapel Street. The
Carleton County Vocational School set a precedent that sees the current beautiful community college in Woodstock. He also donated the L.P. Fisher Library. The Carleton Memorial Hospital replaced The L.P. Fisher Hospital in 1954, remaining in service until 2007 when the Upper River Valley Hospital opened. The Carleton Memorial Hospital was fortunate to have the Carleton Memorial Hospital Foundation support it throughout those years, thanks to the Upper River Valley citizens and businesses’ loyal philanthropic support. One project of the Carleton Memorial Hospital Foundation was the Dr. T. M. Tanton Memorial Fund, initiated by Bud Kinney and Dr. Wayne McLaughlin. It raised philanthropy in the name of Dr. Muncey Tanton, who served the Upper River Valley as the Carleton Memorial Hospital Eye, Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist for many decades. The Tanton Memorial Fund’s goal was to see that local philanthropy would provide the necessary support to ensure that eye care continues in the Upper River Valley for the great benefit of the patients, many of whom are elderly. The fund proved a great example of the generosity of Upper River Valley citizens and businesses. It resulted in supporting Dr. C. W. Goodine obtaining his Fellowship in Ophthalmology and returning to provide, to date, more than 35 years of exemplary service for the benefit of Upper River Valley patients. The Dr. T. M. Tanton Clinic was equipped with up-to-date equipment thanks to the Upper River Valley generosity and the Dr. T. M. Tanton Memorial Fund’s efforts. When there was a gap in ophthalmology care while Dr. Goodine did his training, Dr. Craig Young of Presque Isle, Maine, was recruited to provide the office and surgical care to avoid the service gap. Upper River Valley support through the Dr. T.M. Tanton Memorial Fund made this possible by providing state-of-theart equipment. As a result, Dr. Goodine returned to a thriving ophthalmology practice.
This example of crossborder cooperation with eastern Maine physicians in providing health care has a long history, including general surgery, Dr. Henry Fisk as one example, and anesthesia, Dr. Andrzej Trojanowski. Dr. Fran Alborg has settled in the Upper River Valley after a long career in Eastern Maine. The Obstetrical Department and Dr. Robert Mosenfelder at Houlton Regional Hospital provided back-up when time was critical. Fredericton ophthalmologist Dr. Kenneth Roberts and Dr. Goodine recognized the importance of providing this ophthalmology service in the future, leading to the recruitment of Dr. River Kattan, who opened an office on Maple Street in Woodstock. The Goodine Family serves as an excellent example of the spin-off benefits of philanthropy. Dr. Rose Anne Goodine practices her Family Medicine and Obstetrics here. Bill and Rose Anne Goodine’s daughter Dr. Katie Goodine-Everett practices Family Medicine and Obstetrics in Woodstock and at the Upper River Valley Hospital. Bill and Rose Anne’s daughter, Natalie Goodine, is completing her medical studies at Dalhousie University and has spent considerable time at URVH as part of her training. URVH has a stateof-the-art Breast Imaging Service (Rosemary McCain Memorial Mammography Unit) provided by the Rosemary McCain Family, named in memory of Rosemary McCain, RN. Rosemary McCain’s family, Beth, Andrew and Mary, independent of the URVH Foundation, which was just getting started at the time, fully funded the unit. Rosemary McCain’s family served as an example of what Upper River Valley philanthropy could accomplish and was an extraordinary stimulus and encouragement to the newly formed URVH Foundation. This donation made possible the current level of excellence in breast care. These are only a few examples of how vital an effective role a supported URVH Foundation can play in the Long-Term Improvement of Patient Care for the Upper River Valley.
With some examples listed, we at the URVH Foundation realize we have big shoes to fill with the standards that preceded us in the Upper River Valley. In River Valley Sun’s future editions, URVHF board member Susan Lockhart, who has spent her professional career dedicated to patient care in the Upper River Valley, will provide some historical background of medical philanthropy in Northern Carleton County. The Hotel Dieu St. Joseph’s Hospital Foundation in Perth-Andover stood out as a shining example for the current founders of the URVH Foundation. Through good times and bad, including when flooded out, Upper River Valley citizens supported the Hotel Dieu St. Joseph’s Foundation effectively and, in our opinion, constitutes a significant factor why the Perth-Andover hospital continues to provide medical care for area patients. This background touches on the history of philanthropy’s vital role in maintaining the current and future level of health care in the Upper River Valley. We offer an open invitation for the readers to add to this history by providing examples we left out and adding to this rich heritage in the River Valley Sun’s future editions.
Dr. Wayne McLaughlin
Dr. Willian Mutrie
Andy Lenehan
Michael Campbell
Pat Goguen
Lindsay MacLeod
Susan Lockhart
Kathy Irvine
Daphne Stokoe
Greg MacFarlane
David Hutton
Lucy Everett
Sherry Leech
Trish Murray
Carol Boyd
the Foundation is Execu-
Return of URV Hos- tive Assistant Carol Boyd. pital Foundation She is the contact person By The URVHF Board
T
he Upper River Valley Hospital has been without a Foundation for the past 15 years. A new Foundation, Upper River Valley Hospital Foundation (URVHF), has been active for approximately two years and now has 14 board members, all of whom are volunteers. Members of our Foundation include Chairman, Dr. Wayne McLaughlin, Vice-Chair, Dr. William Mutrie, Treasurer, Andy Lenehan, Michael Campbell, Pat Goguen, Lindsay MacLeod, Susan Lockhart, Kathy Irvine, Daphne Stokoe, Greg MacFarlane, David Hutton, Lucy Everett and ExOfficio members Sherry Leech and Trish Murray, both representing Horizon Health. A valuable member of
for the Foundation office at Upper River Valley Hospital and can be reached at (506) 375-2944 or email address urvhf@horizonnb.ca The URVHF is aligned with the Chalmers Foundation of the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital in Fredericton to facilitate immediate giving, issuing receipts and administrative support. Funds raised by our Foundation are utilized exclusively for long-term improvement to patient care at the Upper River Valley Hospital. The Chalmers Foundation staff have been amazing mentors and have certainly given their time and energies to ensure the Upper River Valley Foundation’s success. The URVH Foundation is excited with the tremendous progress to date in providing new equipment
and services for the Upper River Valley Hospital. Stay tuned for the next edition of the River Valley Sun for much more information regarding Foundation-sponsored projects and donor recognition. The URVHF commits to continue to do the following: Raising awareness of our existence and purpose. Raising funds to assist our families, friends, and neighbours so that they can obtain the best healthcare services and support available in a caring community. Assist us with our goal of having ALL the communities and residents in the Upper River Valley adopt URVH as their very own hospital. We sincerely believe that such an adoption will help influence and determine what services are maintained and expanded upon in terms of patient care by Horizon Health.
4
Races set for May 10 municipal election
Here are your candidates By Jim Dumville
I
t’s time to print the ballots for the May 10 New Brunswick municipal elections. Registration closed at 2 p.m. Friday, finalizing the final election ballots. Elections New Brunswick Communications Director Paul Harpelle confirmed all candidates are officially listed, with candidates having until the end of the business day on Monday, April 12, to remove their name. Two communities in the River Valley Sun coverage area will see no mayor and council elections, with mayor and council taking offices in Nackawic and Centreville by acclamation. In Centreville, all incumbents return to office with Mayor Michael Stewart and Councillors Robert Lee, Garth Dale Seely and Kathleen Simonson all returning by acclamation. In Nackawic, Incumbents Mayor Ian Kitchen and Councillors Gail Farnsworth, Gregory Ryan MacFarlane, Robert Simpson and Brian O’Toole will be back in their seats after May 10. They will be joined by the only new face on council, Mike Meade, who will replace Julie McConaghy, the only incumbent to not reoffer. Woodstock Mayor Arthur Slipp, Meductic Mayor Lance Royden Graham and Millville Mayor Bev Forbes will retain their respective offices without challenge. Those planning to elect members of the Anglophone West School District Council will have few or no choices. The
only races will be in Subdistrict 7, 8, 9 and 11. Districts 3, 12 and 13 have only one candidate, meaning they will be acclaimed. No candidates filed to run in Districts 1, 2, 4, 5, 6 and 10. Representatives will be appointed in these subdistricts. The following is a list of mayor and council candidates for local communities. TOWNS WOODSTOCK: Mayor’s race: No election. Incumbent Arthur Slipp returns by acclamation Council race: Election: (6 seats, 10 candidates) Incumbents Amy Anderson, Jeff Bradbury and Randy Leonard, along with Norm Brown, Terrance Craig Campbell, Emily Anne Clark, Trina (Jones) Milbury, Ricky A. Nicholson, Mark D.Rogers, and Susan Smith. NACKAWIC: Mayor’s race: No election: Incumbent Ian Kitchen re-elected by acclamation Council race: No election: Incumbent councillors Gail Farnsworth, Gregory Ryan MacFarlane, Robert Simpson and Brian O’Toole, along with Mike Meade acclaimed to office HARTLAND: Mayor race: Election: Two candidates: Incumbent Darrin Foster and Tracey DeMerchant Council race: Election: (6 Seats, 11 candidates): Incumbents Greg Crouse and Daphne Stokoe, along with George Boone, Jeffrey Doherty, Tasha C. Doherty, Stewart Fairgrieve, David
Gormley, Nancy Lovely, Gary Mangum, Lee Patterson and Michael D. Walton. FLORENCEVILLEBRISTOL: Mayor’s race: Election: Two candidates: Incumbent Karl Curtis and Laurel Robert Bradstreet. Council, Ward 1: Election: (3 seats, 6 candidates) Incumbent Daniel Guest and Stephen Belliveau, Ryan Larry Dickinson, Nancy Giggie, Lacey Kinney-Thomas and Laurie Ann Martel. Council Ward 2: Election: (3 seats, 4 candidates) Incumbents Daniel McCarthy, David Trafford and Nancy Whyte McCauley, and Andrew Saunders. VILLAGES BATH: Mayor’s race: Election: Two candidates: Michael Terry Allan and Charles MacDonald Council race: (3 seats, 4 candidates): Rodney Charles Broad, Barbara McIntosh, Jodi Allan O’Neill and Rhonda Jean Salmon. CANTERBURY: Mayor’s race: Election: Two candidates:: Tanya Marie Cloutier and Glendon J. Luimes Council race: Election: (4 seats, 7 candidates): Outgoing mayor Elaine English, incumbents George Mott and Sandra Marston, and Christy Marie Collier, Michael Thomas Furrow, Mark A. Grant and Andrea Sullivan. CENTREVILLE: Mayor’s race: No Election: Incumbent Michael Stewart returns by acclamation Council: No Election:
Woodstock Mayor Arthur Slipp (top) and Nackawic Mayor Ian Kitchen will return to office by acclimation. (File photos)
(3 seats, 3 candidates) Incumbents Robert Lee, Garth Dale Seely and Kathleen Simonson return by acclamation. MEDUCTIC: Mayor’s race: No Election: Incumbent Lance Royden Graham
by acclamation Council: Election: (3 seats, 4 candidates) Incumbent Randall A. Stairs, and Eric Milton Cummings and Lee Robert Dickison and Julia Dawn Grant. MILLVILLE:
Mayor: No election: Incumbent Beverly Forbes returns by acclamation Council: Election: Incumbents Trevor John Gullison, Jeffrey Mills and Colin E. Trail, along with Dean R. Crossen.
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5
Premier hopeful despite COVID-19, economic challenges
Higgs delivers keynote address at Rotary By Jim Dumville
A
fter more than a year under the shadow of COVID-19, New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs says the province continues to face concern, challenges and frustration, but he sees a glimmer of light. Part of that light came from the approximately 65 socially distanced attendees at the Woodstock Rotary Club dinner held Monday, March 29, at the AYR Motor Centre field house. The event marked the first time since the pandemic began that the premier could deliver a state of the union, or any public address, to an in-house, albeit intentionally small, audience. The premier’s speech focused on the pandemic’s economic impact on New Brunswick, pointing out the positive signs which pushed their way through the mountain of COVID-19 challenges. Higgs said the pandemic helped government and business focus on key areas where improvements are needed for future economic growth, citing better internet service as a key to the province being a player in the global economy. While Atlantic Canada, including New Brunswick as the gateway to the Maritimes, did a masterful job limiting the virus’s spread, Higgs recognized existing areas of concern. Following his address, Higgs acknowledged he views the ongoing spread of the COVID-19 UK variant in the province’s northwestern corner as a significant concern.
To bring that spread under control, he said, the province, on Public Health’s recommendation, expanded the Red Alert Level circuit breaker from only Edmundston and surrounding communities to Four Falls at the southern end of Zone 4. The more extensive circuit breaker now includes Grand Falls, St. Andre St. Leonard, but stops before reaching St. Quentin at the eastern end of the zone. Noting the number of active cases that recently skyrocketed to 120, Higgs said it’s the approximately five cases in Zone 4 “we can’t trace” that raises the most significant concern. However, he remains confident that if people continue to follow the rules, Public Health will successfully stop the virus’s transmission in time to see the reopening of the Atlantic Bubble in mid-April. Higgs said his government’s vaccination program, which set Canada Day as the date to deliver at least the first dose to everyone who wants it, remains on target. He said the National Advisory Committee on Immunization’s recommendation not to use the AstraZeneca vaccine on anyone under 55 would force Public Health to adjust to its schedule. Still, he added, it shouldn’t hinder its target date. Higgs said the NACI appears “overly cautious,” adding those younger New Brunswickers who already received the AstraZeneca vaccine need not be overly concerned. Public Health delivered that particular vaccine to first responders
and school staff over the past week. Higgs called the reports of vaccine recipients developing blood clots extremely rare. He said Public Health asked those vaccinated to monitor their health for 20 days after getting the vaccine. The premier fears endless questions about AstraZeneca could undermine the entire vaccine program. “The last thing we need is people second-guessing the vaccines,” he said. During his keynote address, Higgs noted the pending reopening of the Atlantic Bubble and the province’s successful vaccination program provides optimism. “Let’s hope we’ll be back to normal this summer, or at least as normal as we can be,” he said. Referring to his recently released budget, Higgs said strategic government investment is a key to rebuilding the pandemicdamaged economy, but even with government spending, growth will be slow. “We’re moving from one economy to another,” he said. “We can’t do it overnight.” Higgs said some New Brunswick industries fared well during the pandemic. He noted the surge in sales in the lumber and forestry sectors, as people stuck working from home took the opportunity to upgrade and renovate their homes. “Real Estate Sales are up,” he added. On the other hand, he said, the budget needed to include strategic investment to help struggling in-
dustries recover. Higgs said government and industry must use lessons learned during the pandemic to improve how to do business. He promised a new focus on tourism and agriculture as examples of potential economic-growth areas. In agriculture, he said, there needs to be a renewed focus on local production and the sale of fruits and vegetables. “How do we become self-sufficient?” he asked. Higgs delved into the province’s health-care challenges, noting the Department of Health’s ongoing virtual consultation seeking input to improve health-care delivery. Woodstock Mayor Art Slipp, who sat next to the premier at the head table and delivered the thank you following Higg’s address, noted the town would participate in the upcoming health-care consultations. Slipp encouraged the Rotary, as a significant fundraiser for health-care projects, to get involved and register for the meetings. Higgs said the government is searching for ways to improve health-care service delivery in a fiscally responsible matter. “How do we protect what we have, but how do we expand upon it?” the premier asked rhetorically. Several of the premier’s colleagues attended the small event and dinner, including Carleton MLA Bill Hogan, who introduced Higgs. Others on hand included Carleton-Victoria MLA and Agriculture, Aquacul-
New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs addresses the Woodstock Rotary Club on March 31 at the AYR Motor Centre. (Jim Dumville photo)
ture and Fisheries Minister Margaret Johnson, and Tobique-Mactaquac MP Richard Bragdon. Joining Mayor Slipp, representing the town, were Councillors Randy Leonard and Theresa Blackburn and CAO Ken Anthony. Woodstock Rotary Club President Scott Dunlop welcomed the 65 in attendance, including a large
contingent of his fellow Rotarians, to the event, saying it was great seeing everyone, “all together, all safe.” Dunlop took a moment to recognize the significance of hosting the event at the AYR Motor Centre, noting the Rotary Club has been an active partner in the facility’s development and growth since before it opened in 1995.
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6
Letter to the Editor
Higgs’ $20 million for small modular nuclear reactors “a burden” Dear Editor, On Feb. 10, when Premier Blaine Higgs committed $20 million taxpayer dollars to ARC Clean Energy, formerly ARC Nuclear, to develop its small modular nuclear reactor (SMNR), he neglected to mention the financial risks: higher power bills for NB Power customers, and liability for taxpayers. Design and construc-
tion costs from increasingly complex technical, safety and security requirements continue to increase after Fukushima. Unlike nuclear’s uncertainty, NB Power knows how much windmills cost and could start building them now. Electricity costs much more to generate from nuclear reactors than renewable sources. Solar and wind are already
much cheaper than nuclear and dropping in price while nuclear continues rising. NB Power customers will pay this cost in their power bills. Huge cost overruns and delays have always plagued nuclear construction worldwide. According to NB’s Auditor General, building Point Lepreau’s reactor cost three times more than originally budgeted, and its refurbishment cost
$1 billion more and took three years longer than planned. Why would ARC’s SMNR be any different? NB Power’s huge $4.8 billion debt, largely due to costs from Lepreau and paid for by NB Power’s customers, leaves no margin for design and safety modifications typically emerging during construction and expected from new reactors still in the de-
sign phase. Finally, SMNRs like ARC’s threaten to saddle present and future New Brunswickers with an enormous liability from radioactive waste. Electricity rates will rise to pay for handling and storing new forms of corrosive radioactive liquid waste as well as the military-grade security required to protect materials like plutonium from sabotage and theft
by criminals and terrorists. Do we want this burden for ourselves and our descendants?
Ann McAllister Rothesay, NB
Details on how to submit your Letter to the Editor can be found on the bottom of page two of the River Valley Sun.
“We must open the doors and we must see to it they remain open, so that others can pass through.” - Rosemary Brown
First Canadian black woman MLA (BC - 1972)
CORRECTION: SHE SHINES AWARD In the March issue of the River Valley Sun, we incorrectly reported that a She Shines Award went to Jane Cummings. In fact, Jane Cummings was who nominated Melissa McLaughlin. McLaughlin was honoured for her passion and going above and beyond in being a personal trainer to others. We apologize for this error. Congratulations Melissa!
Melissa McLaughlin
ON MAY 10, RE-ELECT
Jeff Bradbury
CARLETON FUNERAL HOME ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
WOODSTOCK TOWN COUNCIL Saturday, Apr. 17 at 11 a.m. at 337 Lockhart Mill Road Jacksonville, NB Working toward a: * Sustainable Future * Deakin Dr. Walking Path * Downtown Development * Broadway & Houlton Rd. Improvements
*FOR MEMBERS ONLY
Carleton Funeral Home was established in 1991, to meet the need for professional, courteous care of families and their loved ones. Serving Carleton County and its surrounding regions, the co-operative has developed a reputation for bringing comfort to those in sorrow at the most troubling time in their lives.
RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA
7
It’s important to vote in the election that is closest to your doorstep
My Thoughts Exactly
O
By Jim Dumville
n May 10, New Brunswickers, including those in the River Valley Sun’s coverage area, will be called upon to perform an important task. I encourage everyone to exercise their civic duty and cast a ballot in their respective communities’ municipal elections. Considering the opportunity to vote in a free and fair election is the cherished right men and women sacrificed their lives to protect, turnout for any election in Canada is dismally low. Municipal elections rise to little more than an afterthought to many. That has long bewildered me. No elected representative has a more significant impact on our daily lives than the men and women sitting in our respective community’s council chambers. When you turn on the tap and get clear, clean water, you can thank your mayor and council. When your street looks more like the front lines of a war zone than a pathway through a quiet residential neighbourhood, you complain to those sitting around the council table. Municipal governments control the taxes you pay on your home. They decide your water and sewer rates. The red tape you complain about when you build, renovate or plan a development lies in the hands of your elected council and mayor. The local council delivers the services you depend upon daily, whether public
works, public safety, recreation or economic development. In New Brunswick, municipal elections are the one place voters can set aside party affiliation consideration when choosing the right woman or man for the job. While some candidates are known within their communities to be strong supporters of a political party, it rarely surfaces in council debate. Members of municipal councils gain little benefit for the amount of time and effort they deliver as elected public servants. If you think getting elected to council is an excellent way to pad your bank account, you may want to rethink that plan. Dedicated mayors and council members put in hours far beyond the worth of any stipend they receive. That doesn’t mean every elected municipal official puts in the effort required. However, in my quarter-century of covering local politics, that’s a rarity. Most mayors and councillors I’ve encountered work extremely hard, much of it behind the scenes. Their constituents may not like their decisions, but, in most cases, they work hard to reach that decision, good or bad. The truth is that elected members of the local council face plenty of routine dayto-day decisions to ensure the town or village they represent runs smoothly. But, they also have to make difficult choices in the face of screaming citizens on both sides of a divisive issue. A long-serving municipal politician once told me that he is still shocked at the amount of hostility he faced despite many years of service to the community. “If somebody’s not mad at you,” I told him, “you didn’t do much.” When an issue divides the community in half, whatever decision the elected member makes will anger half the community. If you spend even a little bit of time on social media, you’ll discover many angry people lose the ability to be fair. “A thick skin,” I said, is an essential attribute of a municipal politician. Anyone stressed by criticism should
This selfie followed my casting a ballot in the federal election of September 2019. Voting is a cherished right. Don’t waste it. Head to the poles on May 10. (Jim Dumville photo)
consider an easier way to serve their community. On the other hand, the least favourable motive in a politician at any level is a personal agenda. While that burning issue could be significant, if it serves as the only reason to seek election, the candidate falls short of working in their constituents’ best interest. Elsewhere in this issue, you’ll find out who’s seeking election in towns and villages throughout our coverage area. Check it out. Get to know the candidates in your community and choose wisely. Thankfully, voters in most communities have a significant number of options. Only two communities will have no municipal vote. The mayor and council will take office in Nackawic and Centreville by acclamation. While I believe an election is a healthier choice for any town or village residents, incumbents returning unopposed in these communities aren’t shocking. Both these cases reflect a satisfied
community. At least no one seemed concerned enough to throw their hat into the ring. Centreville’s Mayor Michael Stewart and Councillors Robert Lee, Garth Dale Seely and Kathleen Simonson will remain in office after May 10. In Nackawic, Mayor Ian Kitchen and incumbent Councillors Gail Farnsworth, Greg MacFarlane and Robert Simpson and Brian O’Toole will return. Mike Meade will be the only new face on the council. Voters in Woodstock, Hartland and Florenceville, Canterbury, Meductic, Millville and Bath will head to the polls. Hopefully, they turn out in large numbers in honour of our cherished right to vote. Remember, if you don’t cast a ballot, you diminish your right to complain. I wish all candidates the best of luck. Jim Dumville is a resident of Woodstock, a passionate journalist, and the managing editor of the River Valley Sun.
ATTENTION: Woodstock Composite High School Graduation Class of 1971
Re-elect Amy Anderson for Woodstock Town Council
An informal committee from the Woodstock Composite High School graduating class of 1971 has been in conversation since last summer discussing possibilities for a reunion to mark this salient quinquagenary. Due to the pandemic, we felt it wouldn’t be reasonable to schedule an event this year. We propose a reunion for 2022 and, while not wishing to interfere with any plans that other graduating classes may have, to welcome interested folks from the classes of ‘70 and ‘72 as well. We do not have current contact information (e-mail, phone, postal) for quite a few of our 1971 classmates, so please reach out so we can update our contact list. The best way to reach me is by email: briggsag@xplornet.ca. Thank you!
Building the future of Woodstock together!
Class of ‘71 President, Sandy Briggs
(Ebony Scott photo)
I’m working hard to support local economic growth, downtown revitalization, housing, and maintaining the services we are fortunate to have, such as our local police, fire department, and the AYR Motor Centre.
8
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News from in and around Nackawic
RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA
9
New services, a return for some activities, and new residents By Julie Stone Volunteer of the Month The Nackawic Area Wellness Committee asks for nominations for volunteers who the community feels goes above and beyond in their efforts to improve area citizens’ lives. Ballots are dropped off at MY Gym in the Mall, and a draw is made each month. The Volunteer of the Month is identified and is given a gift of appreciation such as a bag of groceries with a value of $50 or a gift card and the like. Winners of this recognition for the past few months are as follows: January, Tina Leger; February, Laverne LeBlanc; March, Donna Gagnon; and April, Tammy Wilson. May’s draw and the Volunteer of the month award will go to Claire Marshall. Congratulations to all of you. The Nackawic
Area would not be noted as a friendly and active place if it were not for the volunteers’ work. Thank you. Please keep the nomination coming in as there are many volunteers the Nackawic Area Wellness group would like to recognize. If you know someone who has made a gesture of kindness or a volunteer from your organization, church or school who deserves recognition, submit a nomination at My Gym. If you have any questions, please contact Ann Moore at 575-8455. New Health Services In-person Physiotherapy and virtual Dietician Care began on April 6 in Nackawic. Every Tuesday, these services are available from 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at 115 Otis Drive, side door. Appointments can be booked online at www.capturetherapeutics.
com or call 325-1565. Babysitting Course A Nackawic Area Babysitting Course will be held in the Nackawic Lion’s Club on Saturday, May 8, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Participants must be 12 years old before they can babysit, but 11-year old’s can take the course, knowing they must wait until they are 12 before offering their services. There must be a minimum of 15 participants to run the course, and the maximum number is 25. The cost for the course (with tax) is $52. Participants will be given the Canadian Red Cross Babysitting Manual, a Completion Card, and a First Aid Kit. Registration and payment must be made in advance, and payments can be made to nacakawicareawellness@gmail. com or dropped off at the Town Office. If the course
Pick up the spring issue of
ageless New Brunswick Get your copy today to enjoy the latest from agelessNB. The issue is filled with local stories, including a tribute to a special father by Greg MacKinnon King, Sherry Goodine’s journey with chronic illness, Tobique Canoe Man Bill Miller, and a visit with the ‘Prison Poet’! Don’t forget – a subscription makes a great Mother’s Day gift!
has to be delayed, refunds will be issued. Please register early, so numbers are known in advance. Wheels to Wellness For the past few years, the Nackawic Area Wellness group has offered a transportation service for seniors who do not or cannot drive. Volunteer drivers take seniors to Doctor’s appointments or to the hospital if a procedure is being done there. The program has been very successful but is being threatened by a dwindling number of drivers. Like anyone else, drivers do get sick, move away or cannot provide the service on a particular day. If you are interested in being a driver please submit your name to Linda Brewer at 575-1999. If you know someone interested, please tell them to contact Linda. 50/50 Fundraiser We have a Loonie Lot-
tery in support of the library. For $1 per week, you can purchase a number between 1 and 100 and take part in a 50/50 draw each week. All funds raised will be used to buy books, DVDs, etc., for the Nackawic Library. $52 ensures your participation in every week’s draw, or you can buy 1, 2 or 10 tickets at a time. To make things easier, you can now purchase online using an etransfer. Just add the Library’s e-mail address to your online banking transfer list. nackawic.library@ gmil.com. Call 575-2136 for more information. Temperance Vale Hall Activities at the Temperance Vale Hall are beginning to open up a bit now that spring is here. Practicing all COVID-19 protocols, the Hall will be open for Washer toss on Mondays. On Wednesday afternoons, there will be
cards for those who like a good game. Zoomba classes will be held on Thursday evenings, and it is hoped that area residents will take advantage of the activities held in their own backyard. Dumfries Community Watch
Dumfries citizens are busy these days setting up a Community Watch Program for their community. Several of Nackawic’s companion communities have taken part in the program as well. It is great for people to know that their neighbours are looking out for them and that they all look after one another. A Cooperative Arts and Crafts Program will take place in the summer in the “Hollow,” as the locals fondly call their Senior’s Hall. Dates and times will be announced at a later time.
ON MAY 10, RE-ELECT
Randy Leonard
WOODSTOCK TOWN COUNCIL
Tobique-Mactaquac MP/ Député
Richard Bragdon
157 Otis Drive 158A Broadway 538-2 Main St. Nackawic, NB Grand Falls, NB Hartland, NB E3Z 2J9 E6G 1H3 E7P 2N5
1-800 -671-6160 richard.bragdon@parl.gc.ca If you have questions about any federal benefit programs, please reach out! We are here to help!
10
’ TAKONUTOMAKONUWAL
(Maliseet word meaning ‘their stories’)
News and Features from Woodstock First Nation
WFN COVID-19 vaccination clinics a success
Left: Woodstock First Nation elder Rita Chevrette, who will be 91 this month, gets her first dose of the Pfizer vaccine to protect her against COVID-19. She was one of 165 people who will be vaccinated during a clinic at the Woodstock First Nation community gym on March 12 and 13. A clinic for people to get their second dose was held April 9 and 10. Right: Woodstock First Nation Chief/Sakum Tim Paul was on hand to watch elder Rita Chevrette make history as she was the first person to get vaccinated in the community. In total, 156 band members have been fully vaccinated. (Kathryn Chisholm photos)
What the Objurgative?! (Part 2)
MOTHER TONGUE By Anatasha Lyons
L
ast month, we explored swearing in Wəlastəkwey, using the most scandalous expletive insertion of -aləkittye-. Alternatively, the unique three-stage
objurgative common among females contain repetition: two repetitions of -aləkittis- AND one-aləkittye- within the word. Ex: maciy-aləkittisaləkittis-aləkittyews!) For our male readers curious as to whether unique objurgatives in Wəlastəkwey exist, inserting the -aləkittis-aləkittye- within a word seems to be appropriate. Ex: maciy-aləkittisaləkittyews!) Some might postulate that Wəlastəkwi women had more patience or were slower to anger before using the more
forceful objurgatives than men, but perhaps they had more options, considering their traditional role of child-rearing. Interestingly, there are milder forms of expletive infixations appropriate for children. According to Quinn & LeSourd (2009), Francis and Leavitt (2006) describe -ōluttiye-, ōnoqe , and -ōliqe- as “mild” expletives. Example[s] ...are taken from a small book intended for use in the Passamaquoddy bilingual education program...(1974) when sig-
nificant numbers of children were still coming to school with a good command of the language. Below is a common word used with children to exemplify the mild to vulgar intensity of these Wəlastəkwi expletives. Have I heard these variations in my childhood? Abso-fricking-lutely!
Anatasha Lyons is a wife, a mother, and Woodstock First Nation’s Language Coordinator. She is involved in language revitalization efforts in Wolastokuk.
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Cəssənəkwehtakws/Cossonoqehtaqs PHONTEICS: JəsS-ənə-QUAT-duckws (QUAT rhymes with quack)
Shut up!
Cəssəlikwehtakws/Cossoliqehtaqs PHONTEICS: JəSS-əlee-QUAT-duckws (QUAT rhymes with quack)
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Cəssaləkittiyehtakws/Cossolikittiyehtaqs PHONTEICS: JəSS-alə-GIT-tee-YEHT-duckws (Yeht rhymes with yak)
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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 11
Carleton County Spring Show and Sale is back home
Event combines old and new as it returns to NCCC with COVID-19 protocols By Jim Dumville
A
Carleton County spring tradition is back home. The Carleton County Spring Show and Sale returns this week to the Northern Carleton Civic Centre. In April 2020, the COVID-19 virus forced the board of directors to quickly display its ingenuity, including sending judges to farms to view steers instead of exhibitors bringing the prized animals to the show ring. This year the exhibitors returned to the NCCC on Monday with the weigh-in and 4-H judging. Tuesday, April 13, featured the 4-H showmanship class and breed classes. The awards were handed out Wednesday morning, April 14, with the annual sale of animals beginning at 1 p.m. It’s a welcome return to normal, albeit with a limited crowd, self-distancing and other COVID-19 restrictions in place. “Due to COVID, we are limited to half capacity at the civic centre, meaning that we can have up to 200 people in the bleachers. Masks are mandatory, and we ask that people sit with their family units/work bubbles, said Carleton County Spring Show and Sale secretary Andrea Callaghan. “We are altering our floor plan to accommodate viewing from the entire gallery, which will also allow for social distancing. On the rink floor. which is consid-
ered the field of play, we are permitted as many people as can safely social distance.” She said organizers placed sign-in sheets at each entrance for tracing purposes and established a one-way flow of traffic throughout the building. Even under the stringent restrictions, Callaghan said the board, beef producers, exhibitors and the public welcome the show and sale back home. She said the 2021 show features 21 entries, including nine 4-H entries, in seven breed classes. The 4-H has long been active participants in the event. Callaghan said the board is happy to see “two brand new 4-Hers” among this year’s group. As the board of directors prepares for the current challenges, it is also looking to the future. “We really want this event to survive for many years to come and are trying to gain more exposure while promoting the beef industry in Carleton County,” Callaghan said. “This year, we have tried to increase our social media presence with the Featured Farmsteads as well as the Grand Champion Best Burger Contest.” The public can check out the increased social media presence of Facebook at https://www. facebook.com/SpringShowandSale
(Submitted photo) Carleton County Board of Directors, back row, from left, Jacob McAffee (Director), Ryan Anderson (Director), Ray Black (Director), Val Flewelling (Director), Trevor Welch (President) and Bobby Hunter (Vice President). Front row left to right, Caitlin Brake (Director), Laurie Findlater (Director), Katie Antworth (New Beef Leader for Countryside Club & first year as a Director) and Andrea Callahan (Secretary). Absent: Theresa Hunter, River Valley 4H Club Beef Leader.
To showcase the region’s beef industry, the Carleton County Spring Show and Sale incorporated the other end of the beef industry -- restaurants, which put their burger creations on display to win the Grand Champion Best Burger Contest. Beef lovers can also find the mouthwatering masterpieces on the Show and Sale’s Facebook page. As it has through most of its almost 70-year history, the Carleton County Show and Sale devotes attention to charity. This year the board made some changes to how it raises and distributes charity funds. This year and over the next few years, explained Callaghan, the show and sale will donate to the region’s school breakfast program.
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The board of directors and exhibitors will donate at least $1,000 to these breakfast programs. “If buyers, groups and individuals wish to join us in supporting these breakfast programs,” Callaghan said, “we would love to send a combined amount of funds to the schools.”
She said the intent is to stay with the school breakfast programs as our charity for the next few years, giving to a different school level each year. She said in 2021, funds will go to the county’s elementary schools, with area middle schools as recipients in 2022, followed by the high schools
in 2023. “Our exhibitors believe that there is no better way to give back to the communities that support us and our agricultural industry than to help feed the hungry, particularly our hungry children,” she said. “Food security and sustainability is our focus.”
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12
Woodstock Council News
Council approves zoning bylaw overhaul
By Jim Dumville
A
fter two years of studies, meetings and public consultation, Woodstock council approved the overhaul of its zoning bylaws at its March 22 council meeting. Before the council’s vote, Jennifer Brown of Dillon Consultants and Town Planning Officer Andrew Garnett made a comprehensive presentation of the vast array of changes to the extensive document and answered councillor’s questions. “It took two years of work for the community and council to get to this point,” Dillon said. As part of the consulting team working with the mayor, council, and staff, she expressed gratitude for their efforts in finalizing the zoning bylaws’ overhaul. She described the new zoning regulations as a significant step forward. “Zoning bylaws are never perfect,” she said. “It’s a living document.” Brown said the new bylaws would benefit Woodstock residents and business people as they plan for the future. “They are much clearer and much more responsive to the kind of developer pressure you’re experiencing right now,” she told the mayor and council. The new zoning regulations contain numerous zones, including four
residential zones that allow separately single-unit homes, one or two-unit, multi-unit and mobile homes. It also includes a downtown commercial centre, general commercial and commercial corridor. The zoning map identifies areas for light commercial, institutional, parks and recreation, environmental protection, rural resource, and integrated development. Council spent more than an hour questioning the final plans before deciding on a list of lastminute amendments to the motion to answer any ongoing concerns. Mayor Art Slipp raised one area of concern by asking Brown how the new zoning bylaw would impact the bylaw surrounding signage issues in Woodstock’s downtown core. He, Brown and councillors discussed the existing bylaw, separate from zoning, regarding signs and other downtown appearance issues. While he understands developers want changes to the sign bylaws for the downtown core, he doesn’t want to see the existing law scrapped without some restrictions remaining in place. “I’m concerned once that bylaw is removed, it will be a free for all,” Slipp said. Brown recommended the zoning bylaw state signs and other downtown
core issues be subject to the existing sign bylaw. Deputy Mayor Amy Anderson said she preferred to keep the downtown bylaw, with council committing to amending it as needed. Before giving the new zoning bylaws third reading, council amended the document to ensure it allows town planning officials to refer to the downtown sign bylaw when required. Garnett said town officials made every effort to include all Woodstock properties on the zoning map. “If we missed a property,” he told the council, “It will have to go through the rezoning process.” Garnett also thanked Brown for her advice over the long two-year process. “Jennifer’s taught me a lot over the past two years,” he said. In conjunction with Woodstock’s recently passed 10-year-plan, Slipp said the town provided a solid, clear roadmap towards its future development. “People realize how much work went into the municipal plan and the zoning bylaws,” he said. “We have a few more pieces of it to finish for sure, but the biggest part has been done.” Slipp said the last time council moved to update its plans was more than 12 years ago. “This is much more
(File photo)
extensive than 2008,” he said. Funding for Downtown Square upgrade Woodstock is another step closer to finalizing its plans for the upcoming upgrade of the historic town square in the heart of its downtown core. At its March 22 meeting, CAO Ken Anthony approved the go-ahead to forward the application for funding support from the province’s Regional Development Commission (RDC). Anthony explained the initial application would be for $395,062 plus HST, noting it is critical to move on the application as quickly as possible if the town plans to move forward on the project soon. Under existing agree-
ments, Anthony said the town would cover 26 per cent of the project’s cost. The town square project would enhance the area in front of the Kierstead Building at the corner of Main Street and King Street to make it more pedestrian-friendly and serve as a draw for downtown businesses. In response to council questions, Anthony said the town would take advantage of the ongoing construction to upgrade the water and sewer lines under the square. He said the underground infrastructure is nearing the point where it needs replacement, making sense to complete it before the newly enhanced square is in place.
Retrofit tenders awarded The AYR Motor Centre’s ongoing retrofit continues with council approving tenders for three parts of the Energy Conservation Project. The tender for the swimming pool heat recovery system went to the lowest bidder, Select Mechanical Inc., for a price of $210,266, significantly more than the engineer’s estimate of $145,000. Northside Ventilation won the bid to install the swimming pool HRV system with a bid of $386,721. The engineer’s estimate was $367,500. King Construction Ltd. submitted the low bid for the ice plant upgrade at $441,000. The engineer’s estimate for that portion of the project was $415,000.
Vote Tracey DeMerchant for Hartland Mayor After serving on town council for nine years (five of those as Deputy Mayor), I believe I have the experience needed to lead our town. Serving on the boards of the Central Carleton Nursing Home, and the Carleton-Victoria Community Inclusion Network has challenged me to step up and serve the most vulnerable in our community. My approach has always been to be open-minded, and remain non-partisan when approaching projects and decisions. I am a collaborator. My desire is to work with the new council, the business community, the Central Carleton Chamber of Commerce, volunteer organizations, and community members to get things done in Hartland.
I commit to:
- welcoming newcomers. Let’s build Hartland’s reputation as a wonderful, inclusive town. - reviving tourism. Let’s promote our beautiful downtown, waterfront, trails, and history. - reviewing/updating bylaws. Let’s make them more relevant and developer friendly. - working with council. Let’s develop recreation opportunities for seniors and improve facilities. - working with all levels of government. Let’s ensure we work toward health and safety for all. - building on past success. Let’s continue working on economic development, housing & green spaces. - answer when opportunity knocks. Let’s continue to work toward growth and opportunity!
With the addition of the new medical clinic, pharmacy, VIC bathrooms, apartment complex, and more, Hartland is building, Hartland is growing, and opportunity is knocking for Hartland! It is my sincere desire to serve you, as Mayor of Hartland, with a steady and unwavering voice. I want to use my leadership and management skills to promote and further nurture the surge of community spirit and pride I’ve seen develop over the last few years.
I believe if WE JOIN TOGETHER, WE can accomplish great things! I humbly ask for your vote on May 10th.
RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 13
Taking a ‘Walk in the Park’ for Ronald McDonald House
Bath Lions take on major project; two teens who understand RMH importance helping By Jim Dumville
G
arrett Oakes and Drew Kilcollins didn’t hesitate to step in to lend a hand when they learned Bath Lions Club took on a massive fundraising project to help build a new Ronald McDonald House, next to the IWK Hospital in Halifax. The two northern Carleton County teens know first-hand the importance of the house. It provided a touch of light for the Oakes and Kilcollins families during the dark days when Garrett, now 17, and Drew, 14, underwent treatment for severe illnesses across the street from the IWK. “It was a home away from home,” said Garrett, who spent months at a time at Halifax’s Ronald McDonald House as he battled an ependymoma brain tumour as a threeyear-old and again at six. Drew discovered the value of the Ronald McDonald House in 2016, soon after being diagnosed with leukemia. It made the frightening battle, and the long trips and extended stays in Halifax just a little easier by providing an upbeat setting for families. “It was very nice,” he said, making special note of the many good people around to support the fam-
ilies staying there. Both boys recall the excellent food, computer games, movies, television and people providing fun activities, such as cooking, playing instruments and other activities. Bath Lions Club member Gerald Sullivan, who is heading up the club’s “Walk in the Park” fundraising drive, said Lions members welcomed the chance to do their part in the Ronald McDonald House’s $24 million project. Sullivan explained the Ronald McDonald House (RMHC Atlantic) in Halifax outgrew its current facility, explaining the century-old building supports 600 families annually. He said 42 per cent of those families travel to the IWK from New Brunswicks, including many, like Drew and Garrett, from Carleton County. Despite helping so many, Sullivan added, the RMH must turn away 400 more families in need. “This new modern facility will allow RMH to support an additional 600 families and alleviate a financial burden of $3.6 million,” he said. Sullivan said the Bath Lions’ Walk in the Park” would be held May 16, from noon to 4 p.m. “The concept of the Bath Lions fundraiser is that participants will be
asked to go for a walk and then donate to the cause,” he said. “They can walk near their home, on a trail, or by coming to the event.” Sullivan explained the Bath Lions Club is not in the fundraising adventure by itself. He said the club would send money raised in Bath to District N1 Lions, the parent district for all Lions Clubs in New Brunswick, PEI and five clubs in Maine. He said the district goal is $50,000, which Lions International will match to deliver $100,000 to the RMH effort. Sullivan said Bath Lions are ecstatic to welcome Garrett and Drew as RMH Champions. “These young men have fought hard to defeat their illness and are an inspiration to anyone currently fighting any sickness or disease,” he said. “Both are members of the Bath Lions fundraising committee and will tell their stories to encourage fellow patients to stay strong and also explain how the RMH and IWK were so important in their recovery.” Sullivan said the Bath Lions planned an outdoor event to reduce the risks of COVID-19. Therefore, they ask people coming to the fundraiser to follow all COVID protocols set up for the day of the event. Participants can come
Drew Kilcollins, left, and Garrett Oakes, right, are proud to be RMH Champions for the Bath Lions Club fundraising campaign to help build a new Ronald McDonald House in Halifax. (Submitted photo)
to the Bath Lions Community Park on Sunday, May 16, anytime between noon and 4 p.m. to walk around the asphalt trail in the park or take a walk through the village. Once completed, they can donate to RMH. Sullivan said the Bath Lions also encourage participants to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy with their family. They will also have an option to bid on several picnic baskets through a silent auction or take a chance on some counting games. RMHC Atlantic, which operates the Halifax house, welcomed the Lions Club support, emphasizing the new home’s importance to patients at the IWK. “Imagine the heartbreak a family feels when
they’re told — in their darkest hour — ‘sorry, we don’t have space.’” RMHC Atlantic said in a press release. For the 78 per cent of families who live far from the Halifax children’s hospital, travel compounds the already high-stress levels of dealing with a sick or injured child. “We’re proud to support approximately 600 Maritime families each year, but over the past couple of years, we have turned away more than 400 families who came to us for help, leaving them heartbroken and searching,” RMHC Atlantic said in its release. RMHC Atlantic plans to start construction this summer. If all goes according to plan, RMH intends to open the house in
2022, its 40th anniversary. Sullivan and Bath Lions members encourage everyone to join them, Garrett, Drew and others, at the Bath Lions Park on May 16. “That was such a big part of my lie, anyway I can give back, I will,” he said. To donate, Sullivan explained, send an e-transfer to bathlionsclub163@ gmail.com or donate to a Lions’ member or come to the Bath Lions Community Park on the day of the event. “You do not have to be at the event to contribute,” he said. Donations of $20 or more can be issued a tax receipt from Ronald McDonald House Charities by providing a complete mailing address.
Share Life.
Become a foster family. RMHC Atlantic hopes to begin construction of its new Ronald McDonald House in Halifax this summer, with a planned opening in 2022, its 40th anniversary. (Submitted photo)
www.gnb.ca/FosterFamily 1 800 990-0119
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14
Hartland Legion’s Chase the Ace helps complex efforts Cheque presented to Friends of Hartland fundraising drive RIVER VALLEY SUN
T
he executive of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 24 in Hartland recently presented funds raised through the branch’s Chase the Ace Fundraiser to Friends of Hartland to support the proposed Central Carleton Community Complex. During the Hartland Legion’s Chase the Ace on March 25, Branch 24’s treasurer Cheryl Broad presented a
$6,000 cheque to Lee Patterson, chairman of the Friends of Hartland, Central Carleton Community Complex Fundraising Committee. Gloria Foster, Branch 24 secretary, explained the donation divided the nets proceeds from its Chase the Ace Fundraiser through 2020. “We know the importance of the new complex to the residents of Hartland and all local service districts and are thankful we are able to continue our fundraising
support for this community project, said Foster. “To date, our Chase the Ace fundraiser has allowed us to donate a total of $36,831.03 over the past four and a half years to the town of Hartland and their fundraising campaigns.” PHOTO: Branch 24’s treasurer Cheryl Broad presents a $6,000 cheque to Lee Patterson, chairman of the Friends of Hartland, Central Carleton Community Complex Fundraising Committee. (Submitted photo)
‘Hope, Dignity, Community’ Human Services organization launches campaign RIVER VALLEY SUN
T
he Association of Human Services Counselors of New Brunswick (AHSCNB) recently launched their “Hope, Dignity, Community” membership campaign. “The AHSCNB founding members have been working extremely hard to finally get to the official launch of this campaign,” said Lise Hitchcock, interim President of the AHSCNB, in a news release.
“It’s taken us over two years to get to this point. Human Services Counselors (HSCs) have been waiting for over 25 years for this moment. Now they finally have their own association to represent them”, added Hitchcock. The “Hope, Dignity, Community” campaign is named after the AHSCNB slogan, HSCs – Beacons of hope and dignity in our communities. In the release, the organization highlighted a recent find-
ing by the NB Pay Equity Coalition. It determined that one group of HSCs should earn $25.25 per hour compared to equivalent work performed by men. The release stated that the group currently earns approximately $15.90 per hour. The objective of the campaign is to recruit at least 600 members by the end of April 2021. For more information, visit the organization’s website: www. ahscnb-acscnb.com.
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On Earth as it is in Heaven NIGHT SKY By David Hunter
U
ntil about 400 years ago a distinction was made between things on the Earth and those things in heaven. Loosely speaking, heavenly things were those above us in the sky, such as the stars, the moon, the sun, comets, and other heavenly bodies. Things above us in the sky were thought to be different from earthly things, and that different rules applied. The Greeks, such as Aristotle, taught that the realities of heavenly things were perfect and moved differently than down here on Earth. For instance, the motions of the heavenly bodies appeared incessant and didn’t slow down the way a rolling ball or cart on Earth would slow down. It was held that the stars and planets revolved around the Earth in their celestial spheres. In the same vein, Christian theology considered the angel Lucifer to have been thrown down from his heavenly perch. In other words, Earth was a corrupted place. A change in perspective was about to happen with the invention of the refracting telescope in the Netherlands around 1600 by Hans Lippershey. Initially, it was used for spying on sailing ships. Amazingly nobody thought to turn a telescope towards the night sky because those things were unassailably perfect.
What would be the point of looking? A glaring example of this myopia was that nobody used a telescope to look at the moon, that is, until Galileo did. What Galileo saw certainly didn’t look like a perfect sphere! It had mountains and craters! Galileo also observed Jupiter and noticed that it had four moons that circled around it in a few days. This proved that not all things circled the Earth and bolstered the case for a heliocentric, i.e. Sun centred, solar system. Newton built upon Galileo’s work and made a huge intellectual leap by realizing that Earth’s gravity extends into the heavens and that the laws of motion are the same above the Earth as they are on Earth. Newton’s ideas were not just philosophical musings. He did sophisticated calculations which accurately predicted the motions of the moon, planets, and comets. Newton devised a thought experiment (these days called a Gedanken experiment from the German word for thoughts – gedanken) wherein he envisioned firing a cannonball horizontally from a mountain top at successively higher and higher velocities. At a sufficiently high critical velocity, the cannonball enters orbit and never falls back to the Earth because the balance of the outward centrifugal force and the downward gravitational force balance each other (equal and opposite) so that the ball perpetually remains in free
fall. See the diagram from Newton’s Principia (1687). The international space station (ISS) is a realization of Newton’s cannonball. There is some loose talk about being in ‘space’ and ‘zero gravity’ on the space station. In fact, the Earth’s gravity at the ISS is just a little weaker (12%) than on the Earth’s surface, but it appears like zero gravity because of the equal and opposite balancing of the two forces. That’s what it means to be in ‘orbit’. It is not that one has reached some magical elevation above Earth where gravity disappears. I had hoped that the Ingenuity helicopter on Mars would have made its first flight before submitting this article, and I would have reported on Ingenuity. But its first flight has been delayed. Let’s hope its first take-off is successful! Remember that you too could get a telescope and see the things in the heavens which have changed the course of history down on Earth! You may send me questions at: quantum. hunter@gmail.com or write to me at: 9 Nightingale Crt, Florenceville-Bristol, NB, E7L 0C6. Keep looking up!
David Hunter is a retired medical physicist who studies the night sky above his home in Florenceville-Bristol. He is working on a new 12.5 inch reflecting telescope.
Newton’s Gedanken Experiment
Valley Outreach offers free, confidential support to someone living with, leaving, or has left an intimate-partner violent relationship, or has been sexually assaulted, or knows someone who needs support. Offering support from Nackawic to Plaster Rock, these services are still available during COVID-19. For more information contact Manon Albert, Valley Outreach Coordinator, by calling 1-506-328-9680, or text 1-506-328-7246, or email valleyoutreach@nb.aibn.com or reach out on Facebook Messenger.
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NEIGHBOURHOOD NEWS Information and Updates from Your Towns, Villages, and Local Service Districts
Florenceville-Bristol Special Garbage Pickup Florenceville-Bristol’s big garbage pickup will be Thursday, May 6. Please ensure everything is boxed, bagged or bundled not more than 50 lbs each. Please visit the Town’s website for the “Special Garbage Collection Day” ad for more information. www.florencevillebristol.ca Outdoor Summer Market Please check the calendar at https://www. florencevillebristol.ca/ iceschedule for the most up-to-date Ice schedule. For recreation events, please continue to check our Recreation Facebook Page for the most current recreation events. www. facebook.com/florencevillebristolrecreation
Woodstock Public Washrooms Open Connell Park public washrooms are now open daily, from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Memorial Scholarship The Evan Graham Scholarship Fund will be offering a $1,000 scholarship to a Woodstock High School student in memory of Evan to a deserving student pursuing agricultural studies. Please forward applications to evangrahamscholarshipfund@ gmail.com. All documentation and applications must be received by May 1, 2021.
Nackawic Minor Basketball We are in the planning phase to run our Summer Sport Camps this summer. We are looking at July 5-9 from 9 a.m. to noon. K-2 All Sports Camp, 3-5 Basketball Camp, 6-8 Basketball Camp. We are hoping to run our gymnastics camp the following week. We are also looking to expand our camps to include middle school volleyball camp. Please be on the lookout for updates from Nackawic Recreation in the coming days.
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Moving on through COVID and Spring’s arrival
RIVERSIDE RAMBLINGS By Carolyn Brown
I
n a recent conversation with a friend, Gary Beatty, he ended our chat with, “no one ever said it would last forever.” Now that may not sound like the most profound statement you’ve ever heard, but at the time, for me, it was profound. Our residents have received their first COVID-19 shot. Nearly all our staff have been vaccinated or are booked to get their shot. We have been safe and well and have weathered the storm thus far with continued support from family and friends. We long for the day when we can unlock the doors and welcome all visitors, freely and without masks. Whenever I think of this, I think of that statement, “no one ever said it would last forever.” The dictionary tells us ‘forever’
is for all future time, lasting or permanent. We are thankful no one has said COVID is forever. We think respectfully of another old saying – “this, too, shall pass.” Often, when we are in the middle of dealing with changes, like visitor restrictions and new protocols in the face of new cases, we tend to ask ourselves if this will ever go away. When you live and work in this setting every day, it is hard to think beyond the moment. There is an expression, “you can’t see the forest for the trees.” Sometimes I think this could be any of us during COVID. Beauty surrounds us, and we see small gains in the ever-changing world among the ruptured signs of Spring. Sometimes, I personally shut the news off or shut down my tablet and join my husband in watching one of those “feelgood movies” that always have a happy ending. Here at Riverside Court, when we’ve had opportunities for fun, we’ve seized them. Just look at the group of ladies in our photo this month on the third-floor lounge.
That’s where you can find them most afternoons – laughing and playing games (when they aren’t putting puzzles together or celebrating a birthday, or watching evening television together). I get a lot out of just watching them. Whether taking a picture or spending a few minutes visiting and laughing while they joke, they always brighten my day. It is so nice to know these ladies share their time and build friendships outside regularly scheduled activities. Their gatherings are one of the additional luxuries in the big yellow house. As the beauty of Spring surrounds us and the ice goes out the river, take some time to enjoy the first flocks of geese or the start of indoor planting as we plan for our gardens. Spring reminds us that change is inevitable because, as I mentioned at the beginning of this article, “no one said it would last forever.” Happy Spring, everyone! Carolyn Brown is in charge of Community Relations at MacLeod Riverside Court Retirement Residence.
Games Riverside ladies play: From left, Arleeta Currie, Betty Hatt, Mable Ebbett, and Rita Harrison. (Carolyn Brown photo)
Celebrating Betty Hatt’s recent birthday. (Carolyn Brown photo)
Meet Joanne Tomilson, Carleton Manor’s Bead Lady IN A ‘MANOR’ OF SPEAKING By Jane Jones
J
oanne Tomilson has been our Neighbour for over two years. Her love of all things beads started just prior to moving to Woodstock. Joanne will proudly tell anyone who visits her that, “beads come to her.”
When asked to explain, she replied she has never purchased beads. She was given a big box of beads and buttons at her previous residence, and that’s how it all started. Since then, people continue to give her beads which brings her joy. Joanne creates jewelry out of the beads, gives away the jewelry which generates even more happiness. Her passion for all things beads
Joanne Tomilson displays the many bins of beads she uses to create bracelets. (Jane Jones photo)
is well known by her fellow Neighbours and staff, especially at the weekly Bingo games, where prizes are often beaded necklaces that Joanne loves to win so she can redesign them into her own creations. When a new employee or Neighbour comes to the manor, Joanne greets them with her standard question, “What’s your favourite colour?” She then jumps into action by creating a beautiful unique
bracelet to welcome them to Carleton Manor. Joanne is proud of her hobby. “Just walk around the hallway,” she said. “You’ll see lots of people wearing my special bracelets.” Joanne remembers with fondness each person for whom she has made jewelry. Some bracelets were made for special friends like fellow Neighbour Madeline who received one as a 101 birthday gift.
Friend Brenda Bunting shows off her ‘welcome’ bracelet Joanne made for her last year. (Jane Jones photo)
One bracelet was a farewell gift for her good friend, June, who moved to Hartland and another bracelet for a special LPN’s daughter who loves unicorns. One even went as a thank you gift to a little girl who sent Joanne a letter and drawings. Joanne made her a bracelet, attached it to a thank you letter and put them in the mail. Joanne confided in me, “I like to make people
happy.” Recently Joanne purchased a book to help take her love of jewelry making to a new level. Her dream is to become a jewelry designer and to sell her bracelets at local craft shows.
Jane Jones is a Woodstock wife and mother who handles public relations for Carleton Manor in Woodstock.
A drawing sent to Joanne from a special little girl, Ella, age 7. (Jane Jones photo)
18
WELLNESS
Healthy Living Stories from the St. John River Valley Region
Organ donors: Everyday heroes and the gift of life
April 18 – 24 is National Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Week By Andrew McCormick
H
eroes don’t always wear capes. Everyday heroes sometimes look like you and me, except they have much larger hearts. Rachael MacDougald has an ocean-sized heart. She’s a hero. Sierra Kiery is a hero, too. Her heart is the size of the Atlantic. Janet (Doherty) Shaw died as a hero and with a heart the size of the Pacific. Look for Sierra’s and Janet’s stories on our River Valley Sun Facebook page. We’ll be posting them during the week of April 18-24, National Organ and Tissue Donor Week in Canada. Rachael MacDougald donated a kidney to save a life. Here’s her story. It, too, will be posted on Facebook. In 2017, after years of kidney failure, doctors determined Shayne Anderson, a hard-working Woodstock dairy farmer and fiancé to Kourtney Bamford, required a new kidney to live. A kidney transplant can come from a deceased or a living donor. Living donor programs allow a relative or an unrelated compatible donor to donate a kidney. Siblings have only a 25 per cent chance of being an “exact match” for a living donor—an unrelated donor, even less. Donor compatibility is established through blood tests that look for matching blood types and antigens. Quickly finding a compatible donor is like finding a needle in a haystack. The wait may take years. Being resourceful, Kourtney compiled a Facebook post expressing the urgency of Shayne’s situation, hoping someone would be willing to test for compatibility and offer a kidney for Shayne. “Shayne’s not the type to ask for help. If it were left to him, he never would have posted on Facebook. Asking for a kidney isn’t something you bring up in casual conversation,”
Kourtney said. MacDougald, the Director of Human Resources at Franchise Management International (FMI) in Woodstock, works with Kourtney. By way of their dayto-day interaction, MacDougald fully understood Kourtney and Shayne’s challenge to find a compatible kidney donor. MacDougald was one of many who read the post. She dove in headfirst to find if she was a match for Shayne. “I was surprised, touched, blown away, excited, but reserved when Rachael spoke to me,” Kourtney said, knowing the odds were low Rachael would be a match for Shayne. A series of blood tests determined MacDougald was, in fact, a match. MacDougald was committed, thus beginning an intense 14-month journey leading to an eventual October 2018 kidney transplant. For over a year, a team of medical specialists thoroughly tested and monitored the physical and mental health of MacDougald. Including regular blood tests, mammograms; psych tests; constant monitoring of blood pressure and kidney scans. Even her own family was interviewed and assessed. Kourtney shares the fact MacDougald advocated strongly for herself during the time up to the transplant. “Rachael stayed on top of her medical team. If the team hadn’t recently communicated to her on new tests, on results or on next steps, she was calling or emailing. She was totally invested in this.” Meanwhile, other than her employer and her children Jessica (24) and Mikayla (26), MacDougald kept this a private matter. “I don’t like being in the spotlight,” she said. “This
wasn’t about me. I didn’t want people questioning why I was doing this. Only recently have I reconsidered speaking up, to help raise awareness for the huge need of organ donors.” Even as they wheeled her to the operation room, McDougald had the chance to change her mind. “Reality is, all the time leading up to the transplant has nothing to do with the recipient. I had to be healthy and strong mentally. A whole team of medical experts is there for me. They made the process easy. They won’t risk two lives to save one. Right to the time of wheeling me into the operating room, they gave me a chance to back out.” She never hesitated. After the transplant, MacDougald’s recovery went well but not without pain. “I couldn’t drive initially but was working full time after three weeks. Moving forward, I have tests for monitoring my kidney function every six months for life. All of the tests are done between Waterville and Saint John. My employer has been terrific through all of this.” McDougald’s children view their mother as a hero. “Jessica and Mikayla are very proud of their Mom,” she said. “The medical team was so thorough that they had no concerns going into the transplant. They travelled with me and took care of me at home during recovery.” MacDougald would love to see others consider being live organ donors. “It restores your faith in humanity. I would do it all over again”, MacDougald says. Shayne’s New Fight The recovery time in the hospital after receiving a new kidney normally takes up to five days. However, Shayne’s strength would
Top: Shayne Anderson and Rachael MacDougald hours after he received her life saving kidney. Left: Shayne, Kourtney, and children Khali (in Mom’s arms) and Kohen. For more information on National Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Week or how you can be a living donor, go to www. blood.ca and follow the links. (Photos submitted) soon be tested again. The new kidney required extra dialysis. Then, alarmingly, an ultrasound revealed a nodule unrelated to the transplant on Shayne’s thyroid. Anderson’s stay stretched to several weeks as the spot on his thyroid was assessed by doctors. At home was newborn Khali (now two) and big brother Kohen (now seven). In Halifax, Dad, with his new kidney, now faced a new challenge and quite possibly cancer. Approximately two years of continued tests, biopsies, scans and including the removal of Shayne’s thyroid in two separate operations revealed cancer. Today, doctors require Shayne to attack cancer with daily radiation, which he recently completed with daily treatments in Saint John. Previously, he took a series of radiation drinks to begin the fight against
cancer. Moving forward, in another six to eight weeks, he’ll face another radiation drink followed by the chance of more daily radiation treatments dependent on future results. Shayne Anderson sounds like a man who would rather fight a battle himself than ask for help. When you’re fighting for your health, it consumes you. It becomes your fulltime job. It’s not like a nightmare from which you awaken. As Shayne’s advocate, Kourtney consumes all of Shayne’s fight and tries to maintain a semblance of normalcy for her children. Daughter Khali is pictured within this article wearing a shirt that says “strong like mommy.” True. Holding back tears, Kourtney proudly described her high school sweetheart. “He’s a strong man. He’s not one to ask for
help. He’s a hard worker and such a great Dad. If he sees anyone that needs help anywhere, he’ll stop to help.” Against their unselfish nature, Shayne, Kourtney, Kohen and Khali accepted the support of others. In March and early April, friends sold tickets on three enormous baskets of prizes, with proceeds to help offset the unlimited costs associated with fighting for one’s life. A group of close friends inspired this project. “We have friends who’ve wanted to help since day one, several years ago. At the time, we decided we’d be ok to push through, but we know it was important to all of them to help. Kate Boyd, Erin McLellan, Caleb McLellan, Tyler Hamilton, Kenyan Smith and Janessa Goupille have been great. We are super thankful for such caring and thoughtful friends.”
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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 19
Leaving municipal politics with no regrets
My Big Fat Life By Theresa Blackburn
I
t’s no secret – I am a political animal. You can firmly rest the blame for this on the shoulders of my father. He volunteered in municipal election campaigns and lobbied local leaders when a change needed to happen in his community. Dad was always versed on the latest policies and legislation because he loved the political process. Dad was on my mind daily when I ran for and won a Woodstock Town Council position in 2008. I remember ‘discussing’ things with him during my first campaign. Not much changed in the two campaigns that followed. After spending 13 years around the council table, I will not be running in the upcoming municipal election. My decision wasn’t easy. I love my community and
want the best for it, but I also think it’s time to have some new personalities around the table. I leave without regrets. I am happy with my record, even though I know not everyone was happy with my work. While there have been controversial decisions made, there have also been many important projects I’ve been involved with, like working toward a new, secure water source for our town. Recently, we passed a new municipal plan, which replaced the one that was passed in my first month in office. We have a new zoning bylaw that better clarifies our development goals. Being the town’s Canada 150 Committee chair and helping our town secure the funding to create the Canada 150 path in Connell Park was a highlight. I was happy to help Connell House get a Canada 150 grant for a project that included a number of improvements, including a lit pathway linking two back parking lots. I fought for affordable housing options, which included a new mini-home park in our town. I am proud of the town’s expansion of the AYR Motor Centre recreation complex, and I was a vocal supporter of keeping our in-town campground open. Often there were disagreements around the council table. Sometimes the personality clashes weren’t pretty. I didn’t always agree with everything, but I always respected the process and the people involved. I believe the most challenging part of
the job may have been dealing with the public’s perception of council powers. We are bound by legislation within the province’s Municipalities Act. That governs what we do and how we do it. At times, it’s not the most practical rule book, but it’s all we have until the current government’s municipal reform process is completed. Overall, I think Woodstock has done well in navigating its way through some very tough decisions. I have always tried to serve my community to the best of my ability, even if my votes sometimes lost me friends. Early on, I learned you couldn’t be at any government table and be effective if you wanted to be liked by everyone. I am thankful my journalism career has helped me develop a thick skin. Some meetings were more
challenging than others, but at the end of the day, I was able to sleep at night because I always did what I thought was best for my community. I hope civic-minded people with strong inner compasses get to represent their neighbours this time around. The world needs more people like my dad – those who aren’t afraid to push, ask questions, and do the grunt work to ensure our communities remain places where we can raise our families with the services people have come to depend on. For that to happen, people need to be actively engaged in their community and support the people elected to represent them. That’s not always easy to do, but respecting those who try to do right by their neighbours is.
Theresa is sworn in as a councilor in 2008 by town clerk Barb Wishart Fawcett, as Theresa’s children, James and Kathryn (behind), look on. (Stephen Chisholm photo)
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20
RURAL ROOTS
Stories About Country Life in Western New Brunswick
Mud and syrup
ADVENTURES OF AN ACCIDENTAL FARMER By Ellen Culbert-Johnston
W
ith the arrival of spring comes ugly, dirty mud that gathers onto the bottoms of my boots and then into the car and every place else I step. As I look around, I see jobs that I no longer need to do, filling me with a sense of relief that we no longer need the shovels used to lift heavy wet snow. The bird feeder can come down as the bugs are beginning to reappear. The tractor tire chains are off, and the sled that used to bring hay to the cattle can be put back up in the rafters. I’m glad to see the snow is finished, but it re-
veals to me the jobs I didn’t finish. The planter I forgot to bring in is full of soggy soil, and the rake I couldn’t find has popped up to say you left me behind. The closing of one season leads to opening a new season with jobs like planting grain while watching and waiting for calves to be born. However, this spring I’m interested in a new activity that my neighbours Jordan, Sierra Gunning and three beautiful young children are doing, the making of maple syrup. As they began to tap the old maple trees around my parents’ old farmhouse, I learned that some farmers planted maple trees near their homes, so they wouldn’t have to track far into the woods and back with heavy pails of maple water. Some of the trees they were tapping hadn’t been tapped in over 20 years. I wondered if their efforts would reap any sweet rewards. As soon as they tapped
the old maple tree, the sap water began running freely, as if to say, where have you been. I learned that the running of sap is dependent upon cold frosty nights and warm sunny days and that on some days, they had to gather the sap morning and night. All this sap gathering meant hours and hours of boiling, boiling and more boiling, requiring lots of firewood. The part of making maple syrup that intrigued me the most was that it takes an abundance of sap and hard work to produce one litre of delicious maple syrup. Now that the snow has melted and the days have warmed up, I’m wondering about fiddleheads. Oh, the many things to learn and do living in beautiful Carleton County. Ellen Culbert-Johnston is a teacher who loves to read, learn, travel, and walk in the woods with her dogs in Newburg.
Kane Gunning catches maple water from the tree, while big sister Charlie looks on and little sister Rory plays in the background. (Ellen Culbert-Johnston photo)
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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 21
Spring
SUNNY-SIDE UP
Providing Readers with a Challenge, a Chuckle, and a Smile
Did you KNOW?
Spring 2021 WORD FIND (Answer Key on page 29)
S G Z P F V I X DU OWR R S X O G F C F SWA H EWX F A G L E Y S I A Y X N R A O E N S B V B K G O RWD O H B Y X D L ND E L E S HQ H Z E B E R I Z U V J J J A T N S N J N B UD S VW I UGU C Y I F K E DNH S MZ E O T Z S V G P UWR A NMU C C I D T DMR E N EWA H N OWA L K SW F
• Pineapples were a sign of wealth in 18th-century England. They were so expensive that you could rent them by the night and take them to parties with you as a status symbol.
QWA B E MA O Z U B R U E F J MB Y D Q T U T H T H V K N U C P I B J B L V A X J AWY S Z N R O C H T C L P P I S X L HN N Y L L G B E SWP B V
• Glaciers and ice sheets hold over 60 per cent of the world’s fresh water. • Climate change is causing flowers to change colour. Increases in UV radiation due to ozone-layer depletion has caused a global change to many flowers. • According to a BBC report, North Korea and Cuba are the only two places in the world where you can’t enjoy Coca-Cola, because these countries are under long-term U.S. trade embargoes.
RVS TONGUE TWISTER I have got a date at a quarter to eight; I’ll see you at the gate, so don’t be late.
CARLETON COUNTY
Colloquialisms By John Morris
Fraikten \’frake-tin\ noun - Fredericton, the capital city of
gardening seedlings flowers leaves walks renewal gardening seedlings
sunshine warmth buds sunshine
flowers
leaves
warmth
grass
renewal
buds
mud
walks
planting grass mud planting
SPRING IS HERE! SUMMER PROGRAM REGISTRATION NIGHT
Wednesday, May 12, AYR Motor Centre Field House 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Local Clubs and Organizations will be in attendance to share their program information and take registrations. Come check out the many opportunities for you and your family to be active this Summer!
New Brunswick, Canada; “We took a trip to Fraikten yestidee.” This pronunciation is typical for southern Carleton County; northern County residents commonly use the hypersyllabic derivative “Freddickten.”
Hear this word pronounced at www.dooryard.ca.
The weather is improving; let’s get out and get moving! McCain WALKING TRACK
Increased capacity to 15 per hour! Must call in advance to book - 325-4302 Running permitted at 8:15 - 9:15 p.m. Max. 4 patrons. Face masks required when passing. Must book in advance.
FIELD HOUSE
Drop-in Pickle Ball and Badminton (singles play only, unless playing with in household bubble) Drop- in basketball - no scrimmaging HOUSEHOLD BUBBLE RENTALS Watch for details on our Facebook page! Half-Court – Single Household Only. ® NEW! PRIVATE FAMILY RENTALS - Full-Court Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator - Includes Household Bubble and steady 15 (max. 20) © 2007 - 2021 Education.com Lap Swim – now allowing shared lanes with someone in your steady 15. Enjoy our inflatable Slide, Bouncy Tiger, age appropriate toys, Public Swim - Allowing 25 patrons – book your spot in advance. basketball, badminton, pickleball, mini-sticks and more! *One shower is available PER DRESSING ROOM. Face masks are mandatory in the changing rooms. HOUSEHOLD BUBBLE RENTAL – Single Household only. Women’s Classes: Saturdays 8:30 - 10 am ($8/class) NEW! PRIVATE FAMILY RENTALS Coed Classes: Tuesdays & Thursdays 6:30 - 8 pm ($8/class) Include your Household Bubble and your steady 15 (max. 20). UP TO 7 PARTICIPANTS/CLASS. MUST PRE-BOOK YOUR SPOT BY EMAIL: ayrmotorcentre@town.woodstock.nb.ca Upcoming: Lifeguard Certification Courses All COVID-19 Guidelines must be followed by all participants, and you must Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross, Swim Instructor, use your own personal gear and equipment. This includes boxing gloves. Lifesaving Instructor, Nationals NEW: COMPETITIVE BOXING TRAINING – COMING SOON! Call for details and to register!
COUCH TO 5K PROGRAM
AQUATIC FACILITY
BOXING FITNESS CLASSES
TIM HORTONS WELLNESS CENTRE
*Social distance of 9 ft at all times. *Face masks must be worn in transition areas if social distancing cannot be maintained. *Locker rooms are now open during the Yellow Phase. *One shower is available per locker room. *Face masks mandatory in all public areas.
YOUTH ZONE AFTER SCHOOL DROP-IN
For Grades 6 to 9. Come hang out and enjoy lots of activities in the Field House Monday to Friday, 3:15 to 5 p.m.
It’s FREE - thanks to Woodstock Rotary Club (sponsor Mon-Thu) & Canadian Tire Jumpstart (sponsor Fri)
22
ARTFELT
Arts and Culture News from Western New Brunswick
Inspired by animation
Sam Leger is Creek Village Gallery and Cafe’s Young Artist of the Month RIVER VALLEY SUN
S
amantha “Sam” Leger learned her life’s passion early. The 19-year-old visual arts student says she began drawing as a young child. “Ever since I was two years old, I have been constantly drawing new pieces, from scribbles of colours to characters my child self would see in video games and TV shows,” said Leger, in a short bio she provided Creek Village Gallery and Cafe. Leger is Creek Village’s Young Artist of the Month through March and April. Currently studying at McKenzie College in Moncton, Leger is working toward video game art. “I have been self-taught for as long as I can remember, knowing for a fact that I want this as a profession,” she said. Leger knows where she wants her career path to lead. “When it comes to careers, the very top of the mountain would be to work for an animation company,” she said. Currently, Leger is focused primarily on digital art, but she hasn’t abandoned traditional art. “I’m dabbling in a few mediums like ink, pencil, acrylics, watercolour and especially chalk pastel. I usually draw fantasy-
An array of the works of artist Sam Leger is on display at Creek Village Gallery and Cafe. (Submitted photo)
ish art rather than realistic, with the exception of animals. I love animals,” Leger said. She said she enjoys doodling mythical creatures and meshing two things or two animals together to create something new. For the 19-year-old, art offers therapeutic advantages. “Art can also be a coping mechanism for me, drawing out my mind on paper when my emotions get too much, or when my thoughts get too nagging,” Leger said. “A giant weight gets lifted off my shoulders whenever I’ve done an emotional piece of art. I’m thankful for my paper and pencils for giving me a piece of therapy when I seemingly
had no other way to vent.” Leger said animated movies and shows remain the greatest inspiration for her art. “Even now, at 19, I still can’t help but be star struck at the beautiful colours and movement,” she said. Creek Village displayed Leger’s artwork throughout most of March, and it will remain on display through April. Paul Twyford of Creek Village Gallery and Cafe urges everyone to drop by their location on Connell Street in downtown Woodstock to view Leger’s work. Woodstock businessman Greg MacPherson of Manulife Securities sponsors Creek Village Gallery’s Young Artist of the Month Showcase.
RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 23
Hand me the remote. I got this!
LAUGH LINES By Colleen Landry
N
othing can keep me down, not even an annoying pandemic. I admit I struggled at first when life as we knew it came to a halt. It was hard to accept that I could no longer do certain things — feel a stranger’s contagious breath on my neck in line at Starbucks; sample a fistful of grapes and rip open a fresh baguette in the produce/bakery aisle at Sobeys, or just cough into the air for no good reason. I honestly wondered if I’d ever find happiness again. But after six months of soul searching under the covers with a lifetime supply of Lay’s Wavy Original, let me tell you, I came out swinging. I looked COVID-19 square in the eye, and I
didn’t flinch. Like a phoenix, I rose from the coronavirus ashes, and I emerged stronger, despite my atrophied muscles. I was determined to use this imposed solitude to push my boundaries and challenge myself. I didn’t bake sourdough bread or learn an instrument or start a podcast—too easy. I did something much more demanding, something that required painstaking practice. That’s right; I learned how to navigate seamlessly between Amazon Prime, Netflix and cable without asking my husband which remote control to use and how to use it. TV-watching used to be a cinch. I was raised in the Paleozoic Era when there were all of two channels. If you wanted to change the channel, you had to get up and walk (ten miles underwater) to the TV, kneel, clutch the knob, put your wrist into it and turn it clockwise. You can imagine my sense of wonder and disbelief when I held my very first TV remote control circa 1980. This magical device
turned me into a vacant, drooling zombie—I had the world at my fingertips and my butt imprint on the couch. The only motivation to move was to fetch more Kraft Squeeze-a-Snack from the fridge. Those were some of the best, most carefree days of my life. Things are no longer that simple, and for reasons I can’t conceive, I have more remote controls than teeth. By the time I finally figure out how to use them, my husband decides our 3000-inch flat screen just isn’t cutting it. I don’t know how the man sleeps at night, knowing that a new TV means new remote controls for me to learn! With each oversized monstrosity he mounts above the fireplace, he launches into another boring tutorial while my eyes glaze over — “Just use this new remote to turn on the TV. Click ‘power.’ Then use the Samsung remote to click ‘Source.’ If you want to watch Apple TV, use the little silver remote. Use this one for Netflix. Point it at the box, click on HDMI1
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for Netflix and HDMI2 for the TV. To watch something you’ve recorded, click on Menu. A monkey could do it.” Look, when he goes to all that trouble of researching and then purchasing new technology, I do my best to make him regret it. I’m not proud of it, but I’ve been known to whip a TV remote across the room and say hurtful things like, “Let’s just play cards and talk instead of watching TV.” I wouldn’t think twice about calling him out of meetings at work (hourly) to pick his brain—” Which remote do I use to watch The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel on Amazon? I’ve been trying to find it since I woke up and called in sick. Also, do we have HBO? How do I get to it? And last thing—where do you keep the sledgehammer and lighter fluid?” I’m happy to report that I am no longer that technologically-needy crybaby who, when her husband isn’t home, arranges piles of sticks in an SOS formation on the front lawn just
because she doesn’t know how to work the TV. Being at home 24/7 has made me face my dependency problem and break free. I went cold turkey. One evening, to my husband’s surprise, rather than toss the remote to him, I grabbed one from the pile on the coffee table. I held it up and asked, “This one?” He shook his head, “That’s a can opener, Einstein.” I didn’t give up. Night after night, the minute the supper dishes were cleared away at 5:08 p.m., I’d sprint to the family room to hone my craft. Within no time, I could differentiate between all thirty-nine of the remotes. Soon enough, I could actually find my shows in under an hour and with fewer than seventy-three clicks! Then, finally, after four(teen) gruelling weeks and with tech support from my helpful husband — “Are you half in the bag? You’re pointing the remote at the window, for God’s sake!” I could actually tell by touch alone whether I was holding a Samsung or
an Apple TV remote. It had finally happened. I could watch TV like a big girl… all by myself! The sense of accomplishment I feel is unreal! I’m so relieved I didn’t just fritter away a once-in-a-lifetime pandemic without digging deep and finding out what I’m capable of. It’s like I always say —When life gives you limes, drink tequila. I’m giddy at the thought of one day soon being able to feel a stranger’s contagious breath on my neck, break bread with passersby at Sobeys and hack up a lung just for kicks. Until then, hand me the remote. I got this! Nackawic native Colleen Landry is an online teacher with the NB Department of Education. She is the author of Miss Nackawic meets Midlife and co-author of the Camelia Airheart children’s adventure series. She and her husband live in Moncton; they have two grown sons who have flown the coop.
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Riverside has many opportunities to come together and socialize! The feeling of home in an active retirement community. That’s Riverside Court! We take care of everything! Call Carolyn at (506) 325-7507 to arrange a tour today!
870 Main Street Woodstock, N.B.
Residents enjoy time in our dining room,with great food and great conversation. Call Carolyn today!
24
CONNECTION
Sharing Stories of Inclusion, Diversity, and Community
How writing changed my life
Sincerely, Me By Abigail Noble
She/Her, They/Their/Them
“W
hat do you want to be when you grow
up?” This question is one that every child has heard hundreds of times over. It was fun to speculate answers when nothing you did mattered, when numbers on a report card did not define your future. As adulthood dawned, though, the words became more of a menacing, toxic presence than a conversation holder. Throughout my 17 years, my answer to this question has known no boundaries. One day, I was an aspiring performer; the next, an aspiring astrophysicist. Eventually, I got tired of the question. My answers changed from coherent ideas to annoyed mumbles and shoulder shrugs. This change came with the beginning of my high school education. Up to that point, I had always been a successful student. While others sighed in relief when receiving their report cards, I would obsess over the one point that I had missed, that one failure. These numbers were a determinant of my future, the percentage that I would succeed in life. When I didn’t get a perfect score, I cursed myself for not being smarter. Part of this attitude was enforced by my environment, but most of it was the fault of my own internalized perfectionism. To my teachers, I was a “star student destined for greatness”. To my classmates, I was a “goody two shoes nerd”. To my family, I was a “perfect daughter” (well,
most of the time). To myself, I was a worthless failure. It didn’t matter how many compliments or points I earned - One misstep or misconstrued word would demolish all of the good. As high school progressed, the age-old question became more real and more threatening. I thought that everything I did at this time would determine whether I got into a good university and landed a successful career. Thus, I worked hard in every class and made sure that school always came first. I stopped enjoying my learning, disregarded my family, and slowly progressed into a state of adolescent burnout. By the beginning of Grade 11, I was practically dragging myself through life. I did not have any motivation, and my mental health was dangerously low. All those years of stress and pressure had
finally caught up to me. I desperately needed an outlet to process my emotions – Then, I found it. Like most young people, I had tried my hand at keeping diaries throughout my childhood. None of them ever exceeded more than a few entries, though. Perhaps it was nostalgia that led me to that blank, blue notebook. I started pouring my soul into those pages. All of the darkness, all of the words that I had been too scared to say flowed from my mind to the page. Once my pencil finally stopped, I was hit with a revelation – This was my passion. I had never felt more free or more productive than I did while writing in that journal. I crafted sentences with the artistic integrity of a Renaissance painter, focused and dedicated to my craft. Soon, my journals became short stories and philosophical reflections. The more I wrote, the more confident
Abigail embracing her ‘super-self’ as her and her family explore New Brunswick’s great natural landscapes. (Submitted photo)
I became in my ability and future as a writer. Once I embraced this passion and made it the center of my life, my health and confidence improved exponentially. Now, I had a direction, a purpose. With my newfound motivation, I became a better student and a stronger individual. Without that notebook, I’m not sure where I would
be today. I might never have discovered my passion, and I certainly doubt that I would be better off without it. It has opened so many doors of personal and professional discovery that are so important to me now. If you are to take anything away from my story, let it be true success is usually achieved through
struggle and failure. It may take months, years, or even decades for you to unearth your purpose, but when you do, hold onto it. It may change your life. Abigail Noble is a Grade 12 student at Hartland Community School and is doing their co-op with the River Valley Sun newspaper.
LOOKING FOR SOMEONE WITH ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT!
If you’ve DREAMED of starting your own bake shop, there is no better time than the present! A soon-to-be vacant bakery and shop is just waiting for you in Downtown Woodstock! If you’re interested in starting something ‘sweet’ in a location that has been successful for many years, call (506) 328-6587 or (506) 425-8098. Leave your name and phone number and someone will get back to you in a timely manner!
If we had to guess, we would say, YES, Pilates is for you! Join us for Mat or Equipment classes in the studio and/or Mat Zoom classes! www.pilateswithpurpose.ca hannah@pilateswithpurpose.ca Woodstock – 506 . 328 . 1820
RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 25
RVS SUNSHINE KIDS
AVONDALE KITCHENS AMAZING KITCHEN TRANSFORMATIONS Residence of Katelynn and Jeremy Smith, Wakefield, NB
SUNSHINE SMILE: Introducing three-year-old Elianore Mae Tribe of Lower Knoxford. She is the daughter of Caytlin and Jason Tribe, and youngest sibling to brother Boue and sister Remington. She loves being at the farm, playing outside, and wants to be a cowgirl when she grows up! (Submitted photo)
AFTER
Avondale posts many of their latest kitchen ideas on Facebook daily! See new and amazing kitchen before and after makeovers each week!
SUNSHINE SMILE: Meet four-year-old Madilyn Davenport, daughter of Keith and Jen Davenport, and granddaughter of John and Beth Acheson, and Marshall and Sandra Davenport. This Belleville cutie is into all things Paw Patrol, loves to have books read to her, and enjoys singing and dancing. (Submitted photo) Submit your sunshine kid or kids photos to theresa@rivervalleysun.ca
“A child’s life is like a piece of paper on which every person leaves a mark.”
River Valley Sunshine Kids are sponsored by Angie’s Little Peeps Early Learning & Childcare Centre in Woodstock. Look them up on Facebook.
DESIGN
AT H T OW BOOK N K E U C O A Y F RY DID ALE’S E V D S T T N N S E O PO NT AV O E C G PA STING ? E Y R L E K T E IN WE AVONDALE
KITCHENS
For weekly kitchen makeovers, follow Avondale Kitchens on Facebook or see past blog posts at AvondaleKitchens.com
317 Lockhart Mill Road, Woodstock, NB (506) 328-4111
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ATVing in Newfoundland: Thrill of a Lifetime (Part Seven)
BEAUTIFUL BUMBLES By Linda McHatten
S
eptember 25: This is the last day of our tour of western Newfoundland, and as we pack up, we can smell the delicious traditional Newfoundland breakfast (baked beans, bologna grilled on the barbeque, eggs, toutons (fried bread dough and very delicious with syrup poured over them) toast, fruit and juice. We see Roger stirring the beans and making the toutons and Bill outside in his sock feet, grilling the bologna while Ann prepares the rest of breakfast. Bidding so long to Bill and Ann, we bum-
ble on toward Port aux Basque – a 155 km drive. We have yet another day of beautiful scenery. Crossing the trestle on the Fischells Brook, we stop for a few minutes to look at the beautiful granite rock. If you look closely, you will see the resemblance between a Greek fisherman and his dog. The story goes that a fisherman and his dog came here every day to fish, and his request was to be buried here along with his dog when he died. Our next stop is Saint David’s, located on Saint George’s Bay on the Gulf of St. Lawrence. It was beautiful here listening to the waves pushing up over the rocks and walking on the docks where the boats were tied up. We continue along the North Branch of the Grand Codroy River on the Newfoundland T’Railway and stop at the bridge for lunch. The trail takes us through Saint Andrews. Here we stop at
the Saint Andrews Catholic Cemetery. Lockie McDougal is buried here. Lockie was a human wind gauge. He could tell when the winds were going to blow a gale through Wreckhouse, and he would notify the Railway Company. For the service, the company paid him $20 a month. Wreckhouse is known for its high winds, which have been known to blow over many highway tractors and even train cars. Lockie was buried in cement. He made his family promise to do this as he feared spiders and foxes eating him. Travelling along, we stopped at Bear Cove and enjoyed the waves beating up against the shore. Taking a side trail up to the top of a hill, we looked out over the beautiful valley known as Wreckhouse and Big Pond. I thought I had seen it all until I saw this. What a surprise to see a sign “TODD’S MA-
Spectacular scenery: Overlooking Wreckhouse and Big Pond, Newfoundland and Labrador. (Linda McHatten photo)
CHINING – JACKSONVILLE, NB” mounted on a steel storage box at the base of a communication tower on top of this hill. We arrived back at the Port aux Basques Hotel and were able to shower and have supper in the Railway Room. We also stopped at the Dorset settlement at Cape Ray.
It was a much better ferry ride back to Nova Scotia than when we travelled over to the island. I used a patch on my ear and took Gravol before settling in our cabin. Believe me, when the ok was given for us to head to our quads, I was gone. We said our goodbyes with the intention to stay in touch – and
we have. So long, Newfoundland! It was truly a trip of a lifetime. We know we’ll be back! Linda McHatten is a retired LPN who now spends her time nursing her love for the outdoors. She and her husband live in Rosedale and have three grandchildren.
Out we go to the gardens – finally!
WEEDS, SEEDS & GARDEN DEEDS By Michelle Corcoran
A
fter what seems like a longer-than-normal winter being cooped up we are off to a promising gardening season! I have heard from several nurseries that they are starting to ramp up production for this year, and seeds are already in shorter supply. Don’t wait to get yourself started, or you might miss out! Time to clean the tools! In case you didn’t get a chance to clean your tools in the fall, clean garden tools (shovels, spades, pruners etc.) before you start digging in your garden.
They should be cleaned with a bleach solution (2 Tbsp bleach to 1-gallon water). Throw out any old garden gloves that can’t be washed. Spring clean gardens! It is important to clean out old debris from winter or last year’s dead growth but don’t do it too early. Take care not to disturb our hibernating bee and insect pollinators! Don’t be tempted to compost remnants, especially if plants are diseased (fungus, blight or mildew) or infected with pests. Clean birdbaths/feeders! You can use a bleach solution as above for pots, but rinse feeders very well with water after cleaning. Dividing Perennials Once the frost leaves the ground, and we are about 10°C most days, it’s time to figure out what can be divided (and may-
be shared!) in your perennial beds. Many perennials like hostas, grasses, daisies, coneflowers, and lilies can be divided with a little effort. Dig up the plant with a clean shovel or digger, ensuring you leave as much of the root base as you can (dig a perimeter strain down, not on an angle, about twice the size of the plant). Take care to keep as much of the root base as you can. Keep the root base moist until it is replanted. I usually keep it covered with soil and watered in a tarp or large pot until I figure out where I want to move it. The new home should be dug deep enough for the plant to be at the same height as the surrounding soil so that the base of the divided plant sits at ground level. Water the hole well and add some bone meal to help root growth, cover
plant root base well with soil and compost, water again after planting. Keep watered (but not soggy) for this season. Plant tomato seeds now! Ensure they have a good source of light and a little breeze from a fan after they sprout, or they will get weak and leggy stems. Transplant when all risk of frost has passed, and the ground is warm. Don’t plant next to potato. I ran across a section of the Old Farmer’s Almanac with planting dates based on where you live in NB! It reviews handy information on when to plant vegetables and herbs based on frost dates or moon phases (whichever you follow). Of course, there is lots of other gardening info here as well: www.almanac.com/ gardening/planting-calendar/NB
Don’t forget to visit your local garden nurseries for healthy and beautiful options for your gardens this year. Reminder for Seed and Seed Catalogue Websites go to: www.seeds.ca It’s time to get rolling in the mud!
Michelle Corcoran is a home gardener in Florenceville-Bristol with interests in both annuals, herbs, and perennials. Michelle also collects seeds and cuttings to continually source her own flowers and gardens. She is an active member of the Florenceville-Bristol Garden Club and enjoys cultivating her green thumb.
RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 27
WESTERN VALLEY BIG CLEAN UP DATES 2021 GENERAL GUIDELINES
1. Everything possible must be boxed, bagged, or bundled. 2. Items should not weigh more than approx. 50 lbs. each or longer than approx. four feet. 3. Max of 3 large items per household (plus regular garbage). 4. Residential construction waste is only collected in Carleton County, and not accepted in Victoria County. 5. Tree cuttings must not exceed 4 ft or weight over 50 lbs. and must be securely tied in bundles with branches no larger than 2” diameter. 6. No liquid wastes of any kind (paint, solvents). 7. No motor vehicle parts. 8. No propane tanks, or other dangerous or toxic waste. 9. No fridges, freezers, air conditioners, water coolers, or dehumidifiers (these contain freon gas which must be drained properly). Yard Waste? Check with your Town/Village for details. Kearney’s Hygienic tel: 328-6139 Northwest Sanitation tel: 473-5937 Dow’s Garbage Removal tel: 279-2966
Tires/oil, household & vehicle batteries, paint & electronics can & should be recycled ALL YEAR at various drop-off locations. Visit our website for details: www.rsc12.ca Western Valley Regional Service Commission
QUESTIONS?
Call us at (506) 276-3610 ext. 201 Email us at recycle@rsc12.ca Visit our website at www.rsc12.ca or find us on Facebook at WVRSC-Waste Management Division
3143 Main Street Unit 2 Centreville, NB E7K 3E8 (506) 276-3610
“Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life.” – Steve Jobs
Come be a part of our WI Home community!
FURNISHED, SINGLE ROOMS FOR SENIOR LADIES
Rent is all-inclusive. Enjoy socialization, nutritious meals, activities, entertainment, medicine dispensation, 24-hour attendant care, cleaning, and laundry, while following all COVID-19 protocols. Monthly rent is $1,200 - $1,300 per month. Short and long-term stays are welcomed. Call today and book a tour!
VIDEO INTERVIEWS ON THE RIVER VALLEY SUN FACEBOOK PAGE Strawberry Hill Farm’s Facebook Page was recently taken down, and farmer and business owner Tim Livingstone still hasn’t found out why. The Pembroke man has spent a lot of time trying to get to the bottom of things. He spoke with the RVS’s Theresa Blackburn via Zoom.
To apply, contact Luann Adams at (506) 392-6622
The New Brunswick Society of Retired Teachers (NBSRT) is now accepting applications for their 2021 Scholarship and Bursary program, available to university and college students. Two successful applicants will each be awarded $2,500. For more information please visit their website: nbsrt.ca.
28
IN FOCUS
Putting the Spotlight on People in Your Community
Giving back – again
Award allows businessman to help Hayward House
By Theresa Blackburn senior financial advisor
G
reg MacPherson isn’t a stranger to philanthropy. The Woodstock businessman has supported many community initiatives over the years. Recently, the Manulife
was named the highestgrossing Manulife advisor in Atlantic Canada. With the award came a donation to the charity of MacPherson’s choice. “I chose Hayward House,” explained
MacPherson. “There are a number of worthy charities, but I wanted to do something locally in connection with mental health.” MacPherson said he sees the difference Hayward House is making in the lives of people in his
A Christmas tree at Riverside Court continues to transform with each new holiday. In March, residents were delighted when the boughs were outfitted with Easter ornaments. (Tammy McAskill photo)
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Greg MacPherson (left) passes a cheque to Hayward House Executive Director Marie Innes. MacPherson was named top Manulife financial advisor in Atlantic Canada. The award included a donation to the charity of MacPherson’s Choice. (Submitted photo)
community. “I lost a close friend to mental illness almost two years ago, and I know there are other friends, family, and clients that are sometimes silently suffering,” added MacPherson. He said he has always been appreciative of the help Hayward House provides in the community. “It is organizations like this that are doing great things in our community in the background,” he said. “We don’t always see and appreciate it, so I wanted to help with that.” “I was very happy to get this donation,” Hayward House Executive Director Marie Innes wrote in a post on the Hayward House Facebook page. “Greg is such a wonderful member of our community, and Hayward House is so thankful for this donation,” she added. Hayward House provides people who live with mental illness with opportunities that promote recovery.
Easter tree delights Riverside residents
FOR MAYOR OF CANTERBURY
My name is Tanya Cloutier and I am running to be your mayor in the Village of Canterbury. I am currently on council and although I very much enjoy it, I want to be a leader, one who listens to everyone, be a voice for my community and be the change that is needed to grow our beautiful village. I want to work with all committees to help them in their plans, and truly want to make the home I love a better place. I have lived here most of my life with my three children Shayna, Aliyah, and Liam, as well as with my mother Shirley and my late father Leo, who was mayor for many years. Being a volunteer is very important to me. I have been chair of the recreation committee for nine years, president of the cemetery committee, a basketball coach, and co-founder of Cinderella’s Closet (a non-profit to help graduates go to prom when they otherwise may not be able), just to name a few. As I have done in the past, I will continue to work hard, will not quit on my community, and will show you I am always willing to take your ideas and support you to make them a reality. For all these and many other reasons, I hope you will support me as I chase my dreams to become Mayor of Canterbury. Thank-you!
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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 29
Home deliveries well before Amazon LIVING HISTORY By Doris Kennedy The following is a true story.
“A
lot of special orders today, Charlie?” asks Bob as he steps up into his custom-made wooden storage box on the back of the large duel wheel Ford truck. Charlie Orser and Bob drive a grocery truck to three rural routes, six days a week, for Bob’s father, Ward Ginson, who operates the successful meat and grocery store in Hartland. The threestory brick building covers a block of land on Main Street’s prime location and edges the busy corner on Orser Street. Ginson’s store occupies the majority of the street-level floor space with two entrance doors and two large display windows at their flank, all facing Main Street. “This snowstorm triggers folks to hoard for winter baking,” replies little Charlie, an endearing name his friends and customers call him. He knows his customer’s needs and stocks accordingly. Charlie is carrying the third 100-pound bag of flour to his grocery receptacle. His truck is smaller than Bob’s, a 1948 Ford with a six-cylinder motor, tubed tires, bench seat, and the customized wood box on the back. Shelves of cans and dry goods and a place for special orders of meat wrapped in wax brown paper line both sides of a
narrow path as he steps up into it. The box is built up over the truck’s cab for extra storage, adaptable to Charlie’s stature. Born August 10, 1910, Charlie Gillin Orser endures an untreatable thyroid condition that leaves him with a short stature hovering four feet nine inches and an average weight of 59 to 79 pounds. The most he ever weighed was 90 pounds. He is a proud and stern father of three sons and two daughters and married his childhood sweetheart, Margaret. But to his friends, don’t leave your lunch box unattended, or Charlie will nail it to a table. He loves to play tricks on his friends. “The first snowstorm will be a challenge. I should have been smart like you and got my chains put on my wheels,” says Bob. He admires Charlie and respects how he handles his restriction and prepares to make his journeys to his three routes with ease. “We are like the mail; we must prevail!” Charlie is now loaded and walks to the driver’s door and opens it. “No matter the weather; snow, sleet, or even hurricanes, no matter the dust, mud, ice-packed and unpaved or non-plowed narrow curved roads, cookies need to be baked, and we need to get them their supplies!” Charlie expresses with a raised fist and a grin as he hoists himself into position sitting on a pillow with two pillows behind his back. Extensions are clamped to the brake and gas pedal modified for Charlie’s comfort and control. Though the trucks are new, no accessories were purchased, like a heater or a radio. Charlie dresses for the weather and prepares accordingly with a multi-
purposed salt mixture bag to keep the moisture off the windshield or to throw under a stuck tire. “We are off for our long day to Juniper,” Charlie says to his son, Garry, on the passenger side. It is Garry’s turn today. Each child has gone at one time or another to accompany their father on his route. There are no stops to Coldstream, but at the top of the hill, they turn left to Bannon, then on to East Coldstream for their first stop. Garry watches from the cab as the lady of the house makes her way into the back, stepping up into the box and picking her desired dry goods. As expected, she takes more than usual, and before Charlie closes the back door, the lady’s son and daughter arrive to help her. They greet Mr. Orser and he offers them a piece of candy. Their travel continues. Garry exclaims, seeing the next familiar house pointing with excitement, “This is where Bozo came from.” Bozo is the family dog, and he came home with Charlie and Gaynelle, his daughter, on her journey with her father. From East Coldstream, they drive to Esdraelon, stopping at the Fosters. During summers, Charlie would conduct his business, and before heading on, he would look for the Foster boys, who loved to fish, and Charlie would ask them to catch some for him, and he would pick up the large trout on the way back from Juniper. The large general Store in Glassville is an important stop where they replenish their stock, then head on to Lindsay Springs, where they dig into their prepared lunch at one of
the provided picnic tables. More stops at houses and farms are made along the way through Argyle, Biggar Ridge, and finally Juniper. Bartering is not uncommon: eggs and chickens would be swapped for dry goods. Charlie would have checked with Ward before leaving should bartering come into play. Once home, Charlie spends time into his evening counting the cash and balancing to see that what he received matches what was purchased according to his inventory. His records are reviewed with Ward Ginson then everything starts again with stocking his truck and heading out to his second route. The second route begins at Freeman Hallet’s as his first stop in Upper Brighton. There are clusters of houses and farms to stop at in Peel, Stickney, and then they stop to have their lunch at Riverbank near Buckwheat Bridge. They make their way to east Florenceville, cross the bridge, drive up to Greenfield, and then back home again. In the third route, Charlie crosses the Covered Bridge making his first stop at Fred Grays in Somerville. You can see Ginson’s Store across the river from his yard, but the grocery delivery truck is convenient for this family. The route continues to Simonds, Connell, up the Greenfield Road, on to Centreville, turning towards Williamstown, Lakeville, then back to home base. The mobile grocery truck runs six days a week: Monday and Thursday the 105 route; Tuesday and Friday the 103 route; Wednesday and Saturday the Juniper route.
Charlie Orser with Ward Ginson’s grocery delivery truck. (Submitted photo)
Charlie was an honest man, and Ward trusted him. He stayed with the delivery job until the mid-1950’s when he had enough of the road and being away from his kids that now towered over him in height. The town hired him to drive a school bus picking up children in lower Brighton; the Nevers kids, Crabb’s, Thibodeau’s, and Rideout’s’ to name a few. Initially, they piled into the back of his truck until he bought a station wagon to take them. Charlie was innovative. In his early years, he ran a taxi service. People came to his house, and at the time, he took them in his Model T. He was a caretaker of the covered bridge re-
placing light bulbs or shovelling the walkway, and he bought and sold antiques. After 10 years as a janitor for Craig Manufacturing, he retired. This little man in stature was a big man in ambition and heart. He counted his blessing through his marriage and his children’s successes, one being a well-known, well-loved son, Leonard Orser. Doris Kennedy is a retired nurse, writer, and historian. Married with four children and 11 grandchildren, she owned the Covered Bridge B & B in Somerville for years, and is the author of five books.
Spring
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SPORTS
Highlights and Features of Local Sports and Sporting Events
Lansdowne star completes hockey season on high note
COVID restrictions play havoc with university hockey season By Andrew McCormick mate shortened season
J
ordyn Clark and her Mount Allison Mountie hockey teammates completed their 2020-21 season on a high note. They played some hockey games. The Lansdowne native is a third-year Mountie defenceman and an assistant captain at the Sackville school. Since the COVID-19 restriction permitted only practices for the first six months of the season, the psychology major utilized all of her mental skills to persevere through a trying academic and hockey season. The Maritime provincial governments gave the green light in February to play games. It wasn’t possible to formulate a legiti-
with all Maritime-based University teams at that juncture of the season. However, the team quickly arranged a lineup of exhibition games versus the Universite de Moncton. Clark, a graduate of Ontario Hockey Academy in Cornwall, was thankful for the opportunity to play. “It was great to be able to play a few games at the end of our season,” she said. “We worked hard all year in both practice and the gym, knowing that we could get an opportunity to play. It was great to see that all our efforts had paid off.” Clark came up through the Carleton Minor Hockey system. In her second year of Pee Wee, she earned
a spot on the blue line of the AAA North West Bulls. One of the coaches of that team, Andy Saunders of Florenceville-Bristol, recalls Clark’s determined tryout. “I remember Jordy saying her goal was to make it to the highest level of women’s hockey, which I think was Olympic Level in her mind. Her work ethic and preparation stood out,” Saunders said. With over 50 Canadian University hockey games under her belt, the dependable and smoothskating defenseman is looking ahead to her senior year. “I’m looking forward to next fall and hoping that we’ll be able to have a regular season with some games.”
Lady Mountie assistant captain Jordyn Clark of Landsdowne. (Photo courtesy of Mount Allison University)
Carleton County rugby star making mark on world stage
Olivia DeMerchant playing with Exeter Chiefs in Allianz 15’s Premier League By Andrew McCormick range some international
T
he pride of Carleton County, Olivia DeMerchant, continues to make her mark in world rugby circles. The former Team Canada 15’s team captain and St. FX graduate is competing in the Allianz 15’s Premier League with the Exeter Chiefs. With Exeter, she competes against her former club, Saracens. The Chiefs soon will enter the playoffs and are currently fifth in the 10-team league regular season, with a winloss record of 10 and 6. Impressively, the team defeated all four teams ahead of them in the standings. Meanwhile, DeMerchant and the Canadian National Team’s hopes to compete in the 2021 World Cup of Rugby were stricken down COVID-19. “In March, the official decision was made to delay the World Cup to 2022. So we are regrouping and hopefully will ar-
competition for the fall in preparation”, DeMerchant said. DeMerchant, 30, has been a mainstay on the Canadian National side since making her test debut in 2013, playing in both the 2014 and 2017 World Cups. The former Canada Player of the Year has earned a reputation as one of the world’s best prop forwards. The ex-Woodstock High School and Woodstock Wildmen star is thankful to be playing despite the challenges Covid brings. “Things have been great lately with good results. I started the season slow with an injury, but I’m very thankful to be able to play”. For up to date results and news on the Chiefs, go to w w w. e x e t e r c h i e f s . co.uk Update: As we go to press with this story, Olivia confirmed she had to return home and will possibly miss the final portion of her season.
Chiefs prop Olivia DeMerchant looks to find a way through the Worcester defence. (Photo courtesy of Exeter Chiefs)
SHARE LOCAL SPORTS NEWS: Drop us a line with details! Email andrew@rivervalleysun.ca
Speaking of Sports
RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 31
Spring’s thumbs up By Andrew McCormick
T
humbs up to Woodstock High School senior Matthew McHatten. The Captain and thirdyear player for the Fredericton Caps U18 hockey team billeted in Fredericton his first two seasons, attending Leo Hayes High School. However, he wanted to experience Grade 12 with his life-long friends as part of the WHS class of 2021 Caps head coach Eric Bissonnette supported McHatten’s wishes, allowing his Captain to travel several times each week to Fredericton’s practices. A tremendous commitment worthy of a thumbs up but also for a genuine
“Pat on the Back.” Thumbs up to Cox and Palmer U15 Western Phantoms Female hockey team, the Hockey NB U15 AAA Provincial Champions. The girls’ powerhouse beat Moncton 2 games to 1, including a 4-3 clinching win. Isabelle Brennan of Grafton scored the winning goal. Mark Brennan of Grafton coaches the team. Area players also include Maddy Budrow and Hilary Stiles of Hartland, and Cassidy McIntosh of Bristol. Thumbs up to the Grand Falls Rapids of the Maritime (Jr. A) Hockey League. With two weeks remaining in regular season play, Grand Falls was placed in a COVID red zone. The organization
thumbs down
quickly shuttled players and staff outside of the health zone, just before becoming red. The logistics alone would prevent most organizations from making this happen. Let’s add in costs to displace the team and staff. Then consider all lost revenue of remaining home games, including playoffs, now played on the road. This is an amazing commitment by the organization to its players. I hope the Brad McKenzie-coached Rapids, including Woodstock’s Kyle Foreman, will bring “home” a Maritime Championship. Thumbs up to thousands of Canadians for embracing #TheLoganBouletEffect. It’s amazing how a trag-
edy can bring so much good. I was referring to the Humboldt (Saskatchewan) Broncos Junior A hockey team bus crash on April 7, 2018. Twenty-nine team members and staff died, including player Logan Boulet. Logan had registered as an organ and tissue donor only weeks prior. His family followed his wishes, and his organs saved lives. Logan Boulet’s story inspired thousands of Canadians to register as organ donors. Now, three years later, his act of heroism continues to raise awareness for our country’s dire need for organ donors. Thumbs down to “dream busters” everywhere! Do you know a kid who
VISIT LORNA’S SHOP New Look, Same Exceptional Service!
edition
Matthew McHatten’s jersey. (Submitted)
has a dream to become something or to do something special? Never be the guy to tell that kid it can’t be done! Never! Don’t be a dream buster! Did you know? NASCAR traces its roots to bootleggers outracing police during prohibition. A Must Watch! “Eight Men Out”, an alltime great baseball movie, about the Chicago White Sox gambling scandal involving eight of their players during the 1919 White Sox-Reds World Series. Fore! Golfers in the province
are getting an early start to the season. St. Andrews’ Algonquin course opened April 8, and Hartland’s Covered Bridge opened April 15. Are you sitting down? You may want to be before reading this next bit of trivia. The original home plate at Yankee Stadium (circa 1923) was sold for a whopping $303,227 at auction. USF. Would you like to register to become an organ donor? One donor can save up to 8 lives and enhance the lives of 75 others. Die a hero by registering at www. beadonor.ca.
OPEN CRIME OF THE WEEK
We’re happy to be back serving long-time friends and new customers, safely!
Lorna’s Shop 469 Main Street Woodstock 506.328.3262
NB Crime Stoppers is part of an international organization whose objective is to reduce criminal activity in our area. The local Crime Stoppers Board of Directors are volunteers with representation from regional law enforcement agencies. Crime Stoppers is a partnership between the public, law enforcement, and the media. The promise of anonymity when providing information on any criminal act that could help prevent or solve a crime is the backbone of the Crime Stoppers program. The information received by the tipster operators from the public, either through the toll free telephone number or website, is sent to a law enforcement investigative unit, who report back to Crime Stoppers if the tip was helpful to them in preventing or solving a crime. You are completely anonymous and known only by a tipster number provided to you, therefore you will never have to prepare a statement or appear in court. The information the public provides helps solve a wide variety of criminal activities, such as drug and narcotic information, theft of property, customs violations, illegal activities associated with the Fish and Wildlife Act, arson, fugitives, smuggling, elder abuse, persons of interest, unsafe firearms, vandalism, and murder, to name but a few. If you have any information on a criminal act, and wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers. Your information helps keep our community a safer place to raise our families and the information provided could earn you a cash award up to $2000. Don’t forget to check out our Facebook page, Western NB Crime Stoppers, for details on crimes in our region.
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Spring has sprung, the grass is riz, I wonder where the best sale is?
Country S TO R E Florenceville-Bristol, NB
Why at the Co-op Country Store, of course! Continuing to supply AND support your community!
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