River Valley Sun April 2022 Vol. 4 Iss. 4

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Municipal advisory committees impress minister ‘My biggest surprise is how people are working great together’: Minister Daniel Allain

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

T

he New Brunswick minister in charge of local government likes the progress of municipal reform advisory committees overseeing the expansion of communities in the Canterbury, Woodstock and Hartland regions.

On Wednesday, April 6, Environment and Local Government Minister Daniel Allain met representatives of towns, villages and local service districts forming Entities 72, 73 and 74.

“The meeting was unbelievable,” Allain said after emerging from the hour-long session Wednesday afternoon at Woodstock AYR Motor Centre’s Gallery Room.

Canterbury Mayor Tanya Cloutier and Woodstock Mayor Art Slipp also gave the meeting positive reviews.

Both mayors believe the minister listened to suggestions and concerns from representatives of all three entities.

“It’s always nice to have a face-to-face meeting with the minister and express our concerns,” said Slipp. “He heard some things they’re going to take back and hopefully improve the process.”

Entity 72 stretches over a massive geographical region, including two villages and all or parts of five local service districts. It will combine the villages of Canterbury See REFORM on page 2

(Jim Dumville photo) Woodstock Mayor Arthur Slipp (left) and Environment and Local Government Minister Daniel Allain after Allain met with representatives from Entities 72, 73, and 74.

Valley Food Bank opens Brighter Days Boutique

Woodstock Rotary Club’s $1.125 million campaign to support foodbank expansion hits full stride

By Jim Dumville Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

O

n Friday morning, April 8, Valley Food Bank’s Brighter Days Boutique officially opened its doors to provide a new service to clients and a fundraising option to sponsor its vital community programs.

Valley Food Bank executive director Monica Grant said the used-clothing retail storefront inside the front doors of its large new facility on Houlton Street serves two es-

sential purposes. Money raised through the sale of the donated clothes directly funds the food bank’s many services. It also provides free clothes for food bank clients.

The store is managed

by Misty Brown and will be open from Tuesday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

While clothes and a few donated household items are available for See BOUTIQUE on page 2

Valley Food Bank executive director Monica Grant, left, and boutique manager Misty Brown hold the Brighter Days Boutique sign to be placed on the the food bank’s new spacious building next week. The boutique opened for business on Friday, April 9. (Jim Dumville photo)

2

REFORM Continued from page 1

and Meductic, the Benton LSD, the Canterbury LSD, North Lake LSD, most of Debec LSD and a small portion of the Woodstock LSD. Entity 73 encompasses the town of Woodstock and all or part of six surrounding LSDs, including Richmond LSD, Northampton LSD, Upper and Lower Northampton LSD, a portion of Wakefield LSD, known as Wakefield Inside, a large portion of the Woodstock LSD, and a small part of the Debec LSD. Hartland serves as the centre of Entity 74, which includes Somerville LSD, Brighton LSD, Coldstream LSD, a portion of Wakefield LSD, known as Wakefield Outside, and portions of Simonds, Bright and Peel LSDs. Allain said the final boundaries of Entity 74 represent the flexibility of the municipal reform plan.

He said initial plans called for several of Hartland’s surrounding communities, such as Coldstream, to be part of a rural entity stretching along the east side of the St. John River to include Lower and Upper Northampton.

Allain said residents in Coldstream and neighbouring LSDs ar-

BOUTIQUE Continued from page 1

purchase by the general public, food bank clients can pick up needed items for free on Tuesdays.

Grant explained the new building, which is still under renovation, offers more space and better options for receiving, delivering, storing, displaying and dispersing food for clients.

Grant said classrooms and a kitchen remain under construction. They will allow the food bank to host cooking and nutrition classes when finished. It will also provide space to offer financial and budgeting classes, income tax preparation, educational courses and more.

Grant added businesses, organizations, and the general public can rent

gued their close ties to Hartland.

He said Hartland Deputy Mayor Stewart Fairgrieve successfully emphasized those ties, describing from “a historical perspective” how those LSDs worked with Hartland. He cited community residents’ willingness to pay a tax levy to finance the town’s efforts to build the proposed Central Carleton Community Centre.

Allain praised the efforts of committee members for all three entities.

“My biggest surprise is how people are working great together,” he said.

Allain acknowledged the significant changes raised public concern, but he praised the representatives of the entities for finding ways to inform citizens in their respective communities, including open houses.

Allain said taxation is the biggest concern brought to his attention as he travels the province.

He understands those concerns, noting taxation issues “remain on the burner,” with decisions to be finalized.

He said the structure of the new entities is not as big a concern, noting almost all entities, including 72, 73 and 74, have already announced council plans.

Entity 72 will elect a

mayor at large and eight councillors in four wards.

Entity 73’s council will also elect an eight-member council and mayor. One ward, encompassing most of Woodstock, would elect four council members, while four wards created in the former LSDs would elect one councillor each.

Slipp said the structure works well, with 50-50 division of council members, population and tax base between inside and outside Woodstock.

Entity 74 will see a mayor and six councillors elected in three wards.

Allain acknowledges the province implemented an “aggressive timeline” to deliver a municipal reform turning 370 communities into 77 municipalities and changing mandates for 12 regional service districts.

Allain said he understands community leaders are anxious but likened the process to building a house. It can’t be built overnight, but the goal is to ensure a solid foundation.

He said the new councils elected in November will carry some of the load when the entities become a reality on Jan. 1, 2023.

Cloutier acknowledged Meductic’s elected officials expressed significant reservations about the reform plan and process, but she is confident the committee can alleviate those concerns.

“We have a great committee looking after the interests of every community,” she said.

She explained that, unlike many neighbouring entities, Entity 72 isn’t anchored by a town or city.

“We look at it as a different dynamic but also look at it as such a great opportunity,” Cloutier said.

“We’re really excited for the opportunity to grow.”

She said Entity 72’s four separate fire departments in Meductic, Canterbury, Debec and North Lake raise concerns, noting all are needed considering Entity 72’s vast size.

“You can’t close one without affecting that area,” she said.

Slipp agreed with Allain that taxation is a significant concern but noted every taxpayer would only pay for services they received. He said the province would continue to pay for all road maintenance and policing costs it currently covers.

He said if the new council wants to revisit the policing issue once elected, they would be free to do so.

While the advisory committees have made great strides, Slipp said, a lot of work remains, including working with the RSC committee to determine the cost of staffing and delivering services under its mandate.

the rooms for meetings or conferences, providing additional revenue to the food bank.

In addition to providing food boxes, the Valley Food Bank also provides food for breakfast programs at 17 schools and other outreach programs.

Grant said low-income working families and seniors make up a significant portion of its client list. In addition to new clients, Grant said she is seeing a return of clients who haven’t used the service for a few years.

“We’re all just one paycheque away from needing the service,” she said.

Valley Food Bank is the latest project for the Woodstock Rotary Club.

During its virtual Kitchen Party on Feb. 12, the club officially launched its “The Valley Food Bank: Changing Lives in the Valley”

fundraising campaign to raise $1.125 million to complete renovations.

Rotarian Ashley Farrell said the club presented the Valley Food Bank with a $150,000 donation during the event. She said the campaign, chaired by Ed Barrett, formed subcommittees to approach local businesses and area professionals for funding support to reach its target.

Farrell said residents have two ways to directly donate to the Rotary campaign. They can e-transfer funds to RotaryValleFoodBankDonation@gmail. com or mail a cheque made out to the Valley Food Bank to 680 Main Street, PO Box 4227, Woodstock, N.B. E7M 1A0.

Farrell said the food bank project is Rotary’s largest campaign since it supported the construc-

tion of the new Sanctuary House shelter for abused women and children.

In announcing its campaign, the Rotary Club described the many vital services the Valley Food Bank has delivered to communities from Nackawic to River de Chute since its establishment in 1983.

The Valley Food Bank offers food support to over 3,000 households per year. It also delivers inclusive programs like community outreach, emergency food service, free clothing and household items, school breakfast, Christmas boxes, turkey drive, and birthday room.

The Rotary donation of $150,000 at its launch and individual contributions pushed its campaign almost halfway to its goal, with funds raised to date reaching $525,000.

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.

IN CRISIS?

Here are the numbers to call:

RCMP/Woodstock Police Upper River Valley Hospital Hôtel Dieu – Perth-Andover Woodstock Mental Health Perth-Andover Mental Health After Hours Mobile Crisis CHIMO Telecare Nackawic Health Centre Tobique Valley Comm. Health Kids Help Phone Dept. of Social Development

911 375-5900 273-7100 325-4419 273-4701 1-888-667-0444 1-800-667-5005 811 575-6600 356-6600 1-800-668-6868 1-833-733-7835

Help for DRUG ADDICTION

Hope for Wellness Helpline 1-855-242-3310 Offering immediate help to Indigenous peoples across Canada.

Available 24/7, it offers counselling and crisis intervention.

Al-Anon Family Group Woodstock 506-328-6122 For friends and family of alcoholics, meets Wednesdays 7-8 pm at the Woodstock Baptist Church, 785 Main St., Woodstock 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 info: 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 Local Journalism Initiative Reporter: Jim Dumville, (506) 325-8523, jim@rivervalleysun.ca Publisher/Managing Editor: Theresa Blackburn, (506) 324-5700, theresa@rivervalleysun.ca Publisher/Distribution Manager: 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.

The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.

McLellan BrandSource Home Furnishings, Woodstock, is a proud supporter of the River Valley Sun. www.mclellansfurniture.com

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA

3

Woodstock blaze destroys building, chases tenants from homes

Owner purchased building just four months ago; two of six missing cats found safe

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A

s fire raced through their building, residents of a five-unit Woodstock apartment raced from their homes to safety Monday morning, April 1.

The Woodstock Fire Department responded to the fire call at the corner of Cedar and College Streets at 8:25 a.m.

Woodstock Fire Chief Harold McLellan said a member of his team, Brad Mills, went directly to the building when the call came in. He found some tenants already out, but he and they pounded on doors to ensure everyone escaped the quickly spreading blaze.

When the fire crews arrived on the scene, the chief said they scanned the entire building to ensure no one was left behind.

While all residents escaped the structure unharmed, multiple pets perished, said McLellan.

He said two dogs fled with the residents, but six cats were missing. He said two cats later returned to the scene after firefighters extinguished the fire and the situation calmed down.

They took the cats to the vet.

The chief explained that cats often hide when in peril. He said residents told him about cats left behind in one of the apartments, so he entered the unit, calling them. But the young cats didn’t respond.

Anxious tenants helplessly looked on as smoke poured from the building’s eaves and flames broke through the structure’s roof.

McLellan said the fire

quickly spread through the structure, making it hard to fight the blaze. Firefighters began an interior attack upon arrival, but the fastspreading blaze forced them to exit the building and focus on an exterior battle.

The chief said the older wooden structure, which he described as a “balloon construction,” underwent several renovations over the years. He said rough wooden studs which ran from the ground to the roof were strong, but the building contained no fire stops.

“They didn’t use them in those days,” he said.

Building owner Nathan Stokes, who purchased it only four months ago, spent most of the day on the scene. He said it is the only apartment building he owns.

“At least everyone is out safely,” he said. “That’s the important part.”

Stokes said he is unsure where he goes from here, noting the building is a total loss. He will be talking to his insurance provider over the next couple of days to determine his next step.

He said he had nine people living in the five units, but one renter often had someone stay with him. Stokes added that one of the tenants had roommates moving in the week of the fire.

Woodstock Police Force and Ambulance New Brunswick members attended the scene, closing off Cedar and College Streets to traffic.

Cpl. Barry Scott of the Woodstock Police Force

said they helped tenants connect with the Atlantic Canadian Red Cross to provide residents of the building with shelter and other necessities.

In an email early Friday evening, Dan Bedell, communications director for Atlantic Canadian Red Cross, confirmed volunteers arranged emergency lodging plus financial aid for meals, clothing, and other basic needs for five tenants. He said another four tenants made their own arrangements, such as staying with relatives or friends.

As firefighters battled the stubborn blaze, McLellan said, he called on the Hartland Fire Department to provide mutual aid with its ladder truck, which provided vital help in bringing the fire under control before noon.

The chief expressed his appreciation for the support from “our friends in Hartland.”

Cpl. Scott and Stokes also praised the two fire crews.

“It was good work by the Woodstock and Hartland Fire Departments,” Scott said. “It shows a great partnership.”

As of late Friday afternoon, the Fire Marshal’s Office investigator remained on the scene, trying to determine the cause of the blaze.

McLellan, who accompanied the investigator, said the cause remains unknown. He said the fire appeared to start in the front of the middle apartments and verandah area.

The chief said the fire

Flames shoot from the roof as firefighters battle to bring the blaze under control. (Jim Dumville Photo)

Hartland Fire Department firefighters battle the blaze from above with use of the department’s ladder truck. (Jim Dumville Photo)

destroyed the downstairs levels of the middle apartments and caused significant damage throughout the rest of the building, noting the entire building is a loss.

McLellan said the ten-

ants in some of the apartments could possibly salvage some items.

He said the heat from the blaze melted some siding on a home separated only by a drive at the back of the building.

Stokes said he already arranged to board up the windows of the still-standing building as soon as possible. He will decide where to go from that point after talking to insurance providers.

4

Woodstock unveils off-road-vehicle bylaw to give street access

Council passes first, second reading; third-reading approval will trigger pilot project

By Jim Dumville Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

W

oodstock council took only a few minutes to pass the first and second reading of a bylaw that underwent months of debate, study and deliberations about providing off-roadvehicle drivers access to town streets.

At a special meeting Tuesday, April 5, at the AYR Motor Centre, council unanimously supported the Off-Road bylaw, which sets laws required to move forward with a pilot project opening selected Woodstock streets for allterrain vehicle use.

While Coun. Trina Jones was unable to attend the meeting, CAO Andrew Garnett credited her for playing an essential role in researching information included in the proposed bylaw.

Council must pass a third reading, and the Department of Environment and Local Government must give final approval to enact the bylaw officially.

“There’s time to make changes before third reading,” Mayor Art Slipp told council, adding the province may also request changes.

Still, Slipp expressed confidence in the bylaw’s final approval.

“I expect this to go through, and this will allow the pilot project to begin,” he said.

Woodstock CAO Andrew Garnett doesn’t expect the third and final reading to occur for at least a month.

While the town previously sent the proposed bylaw to the province for approval, Garnett said department officials wanted it to pass a first and second reading before approving it.

While changes are possible before the third reading, the proposed bylaw would give off-road vehicles access to portions of Houlton, Main, King, Connell, Gallop streets and Gallop Court.

Garnett said the town opted not to include Deakin Drive on this bylaw, deciding to limit street access during the pilot project. He said town staff and council based its decision on advice from other communities already allowing offroad vehicles to travel its streets.

“The common theme was to start small,” Garnett said.

If the pilot project leads

to a permanent plan, he said, they could add Deakin in the future.

Garnett said any future decision to create a bridge for ATVs to cross the St. John River in Upper Woodstock would play into future decisions for Deakin Drive.

Under the proposed bylaw, off-road travellers could access Houlton Street at civic number 164 and travel to and from the intersection with Main Street.

They could travel from there along Main, including across the Meduxnekeag Bridge, to the junction with Connell Street.

Riders could also travel along King Street, between Main and the Woodstock Farm Market. Access to Connell Street extends from Main beyond current town boundaries to Route 550. Riders would be allowed to travel from Connell unto civic number 123 on Gallop Court or in the other direction on Gallop Street to civic number 104.

Garnett said Woodstock based much of its bylaw on similar regulations in other New Brunswick communities. He credited Jones for her efforts in gathering information, noting she travelled to Bathurst and other communities to examine how they imposed their rules.

Woodstock’s proposed bylaw regulations require all ATVs or side-by-sides to display a valid trail pass

The proposed bylaw would give off-road vehicles access to portions of Houlton (pictured in the town’s map above), Main, King, Connell, Gallop streets and Gallop Court. For all access maps, visit the town’s website. (Submitted photo)

and motor-vehicle license with up-to-date stickers.

Machine operators must produce a driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance when asked.

Drivers and passengers must wear helmets that meet regulations under the Motor Vehicle Act. Off–road-vehicle operators must drive to the right of the street, travelling in the same direction as all traffic, one behind the other. They must not exceed posted speed limits, give appropriate signals, obey all traffic-control devices and give the right-of-way to all other traffic utilizing the street.

Violations of the bylaw regulations leave the driver liable for a $100 fine, plus any penalty under the OffRoad Vehicle Act.

The journey to create the bylaw began more than a year ago. Last May, a large crowd packed the Gallery Room as the ad hoc committee hosted a public forum to gain public feedback. Those in attendance delivered strong opinions on all sides of the issue.

Garnett said the pilot project, which will begin following the third reading of the bylaw, will provide the town with a first-hand look at the benefits and problems accompanying offroad vehicle traffic on town streets.

He said options at the end of the test period could include continuing in the same manner, continuing with adjustments or discontinuing off-road access to town streets.

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SLEEP RECOVER PERFORM

veryone needs a good night’s sleep,” explained McLellan BrandSource Sleep Centre Vice President Allison McLellan.

“Society has finally agreed that sleep is important. If you don’t sleep, you don’t recover, therefore you can’t perform the next day.”

McLellan BrandSource Home Furnishings on Hemlock Street in Lower Woodstock has undergone a transformational expansion, nearly doubling its display space and opening BrandSource SLEEP. “There is increased competition in the sleepscape, from bed-in-the-box retailers to specialty mat-

tress stores. It was time to bring this to western New Brunswick,” added McLellan.

On April 21, 15 BrandSource stores will simultaneously launch their new BrandSource Sleep from coast to coast. BrandSource Sleep focuses on a five-step process that begins with your pillow.

“A pillow is 30 per cent of the comfort of your sleep.

You need the right one,” explained McLellan. “Then we pick your comfort level – from firm to medium, to plush. After that, it’s technology – coils, foam, or a hybrid. Step Four is your foundation – there are so

many options now. Finally, your accessories: mattress covers, weighted blankets, sheets, and bedding sets.”

McLellan said the family business is working hard to change the sleep landscape in western New Brunswick.

“We are actively making changes to become a sleep destination, where we don’t just sell mattresses anymore; we help you achieve a better night’s sleep.”

McLellan says there is no right or wrong time to change your mattress, but the average person’s body changes every seven years.

“It’s up to the individual,

but when your mattress doesn’t feel comfortable, that’s a sign that it’s time for a new one,” he said.

Still under renovations, McLellan said the location will be 99 per cent complete

by April 21 and will host a grand re-opening event in the fall for the entire store.

“Sleep, recover, and perform. It’s a total package that goes beyond mattresses and pillows,” said McLellan. “It’s ensuring you get the rest you need to be ready for the day, every day.”

McLellan said he looks forward to visiting with customers at the Sleep Gala on April 21 from 5 to 8 p.m.

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5

6 ageless New Brunswick is a proud supporter of community journalism and the River Valley Sun. www.agelessnb.ca

Does the budget address N.B.’s affordable housing shortage?

Green leader says finance minister ignored province’s growing housing crisis

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

N

ew Brunswick Finance and Treasury Board Minister Ernie Steeves tabled an $11.3 billion budget on Tuesday, March 22, focusing on tax cuts and relief for renters. As expected with all budgets, the government’s fiscal efforts are drawing mixed reviews from the opposition side of the legislature.

Steeves describes the 2022-23 budget, which projects a surplus of $35.2 million and $15 million in net debt as an effort to build upon his government’s past successes.

“The steps we have taken with each successive budget have led us to this budget, where we are now building on success,” Steeves said. “We have been responsible with our finances and reduced the level of net debt. These accomplishments have been achieved despite managing through a global pandemic that no one saw coming.”

N.B. Green Leader David Coon said the budget

failed to address the concerns of New Brunswick residents most in need, including affordable housing.

One of the surprise measures in the March 22 budget announcement revolved around limiting rent increases to 3.8 per cent annually. That move appeared to be a 180-degree turn for the government, which strongly opposed rent limits in the past.

In an attempt to offset pressure on apartment owners, the budget includes a 50 per cent reduction in property taxes for three years for owners of apartment buildings and rental properties.

Coon, who welcomes the rental-increase limits, said he’s getting mixed messages on how long the reprieve will last.

He said the finance minister told him the government could not eliminate the rent-increase limit without a review at the end of the year. However, Coon said, Service New Bruns-

wick sees it as only a oneyear measure. He said his party would push for clarity.

Coon opposes acrossthe-board tax breaks for property owners, saying the budget should focus on the province’s growing housing crisis.

As expected, Steeves’ fellow cabinet member Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries Minister and Carleton Victoria MLA Margaret Johnson praised the budget.

“I’m proud that the budget our government unveiled today (March 22) continues the progress we have made in building a stronger economy and vibrant communities while also improving health care and protecting our most vulnerable,” Johnson said. “Our population and economy are growing, we are investing more in New Brunswickers, and we are building on our success.”

Johnson said budget details are yet to come, which she will address

when the government unveils specific projects and funding.

“I know that some of the areas of concern in Carleton-Victoria include crime, taxation, property tax, as well as matters concerning transportation and infrastructure, health care, affordable housing and education.”

She encouraged New Brunswick to stay tuned for future announcements.

Highlights of the budget included the following: — The projected surplus of $35.2 million for 2022-23, and a $15-million increase in net debt to reach $12.99 billion.

— Gas and diesel prices will increase on April 1 due to federal carbon-pricing requirements. In response, the New Brunswick government will provide about $40 million in personal income tax relief in 2022.

— Provincial property tax rate cuts will be phased in over the next three years, including a 50 per cent re-

duction for non-owneroccupied residential properties such as apartment buildings and other rental properties.

— Spending on affordable housing will increase by $6.3 million.

— The health-care bud-

get is $3.2 billion, a 6.4 per cent increase over 202122.

— $38.6 million will be spent in the coming year to increase wages for human services workers, including in-home support and group homes.

domestic violence, support etc).

It engages our schools and our senior’s and service agencies by

promoting their events and activities.

Kudos to Theresa and her staff. You have brought back a Carleton

County paper to our community.

Thank you!

Jenifer Allen Bath, N.B.

Finance minister Ernie Steeves poses in construction gear the day before delivering the New Brunswick budget on March 22. (GNB photo)

Letter to the Editor Good day: I believe in giving kudos when they are deserved. I love our little local paper, The River

Valley Sun. Not only is it free, it’s educational, and informative. It gives great local news, sports, and

community events coverage but court news, and contact information for people to get help (i.e. addictions, legal,

Woodstock Living Free

Alcoholics Anonymous

A local AA group called Living Free meet at the St. Luke’s Parish Hall at 104 Church Street, Woodstock at 7 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays.

For more information, please call 1-800-340-4966 or email meetinglist@district5aa.ca

Gratitude Bouquet

The St. Gertrude’s Catholic Women’s League (CWL) is sending a gratitude bouquet to all front-line health care workers, educators, school support staff, custodians, bus drivers, police, RCMP, and enforcement officers, firefighters, ambulance attendants and paramedics, grocery and convenience store staff, restaurant, hotel, and motel employees, and everyone who has done their part to help others during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Thank you for your service!

Sincerely, the St. Gertrude’s CWL

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COURT NEWS

A roundup of cases processed through Woodstock Provincial Court

By Judy Cole-Underhill to confirm the proceedings Man afraid of prison; questions guilty plea The harsh reality of a lengthy prison term caused a Plaster Rock area man to question his guilty plea on charges of shackling a woman to a couch and whipping her repeatedly during a violent assault in January.

Wesley John Daye, 52, appeared in provincial court in custody for sentencing on March 24. Daye told Judge Brian C. McLean he was not ready to proceed with his sentencing and wanted to change his plea and get a new lawyer.

Daye was charged with unlawful confinement, two counts of assaulting a female victim with weapons (a leather belt, leather dog leash, choker chain, and shock collar with remote), assault and assault using suffocation, and uttering threats to cause death or bodily harm. He pleaded guilty on all counts stemming from the incident on Jan. 16 and 17.

Defence Counsel David Lutz told the court Daye no longer wanted to plead guilty, and the two were at an impasse. He then withdrew as his legal counsel.

“Mr. Daye does not go along with what happened last,” Lutz said. “I can’t help anymore. He’s scared of the sentence the crown is going to suggest, and he doesn’t like that. I told him what the sentence was. If there is a trial and the woman testifies, it will be more time in jail, not less.”

“If you are scared of sentencing, there is nothing I can do about that,” Judge McLean told the accused.

“It’s not just that I’m going to do 10 years,” Daye responded. “I need more time to think about it.”

Judge McLean asked the court stenographer to playback an audio feed of Daye’s earlier court appearance when he entered his guilty plea to each charge. Each time, the judge stopped the recording and asked the accused

and that he had understood what was going on. Daye acknowledged the recording was accurate.

“I didn’t have a full understanding and concept of what was happening,” Daye said. “I was in shock.

I’m not trying to be difficult, sir, but it’s kind of stressful this whole thing. At that point in time, sir, my nerves were really bad, I was scared for my freedom, my life, my family and everything that is going on, not to mention it’s embarrassing, and I was not thinking clearly.”

McLean told the accused an agreed statement of facts about the incident had been read in court, and Daye did not dispute them.

The accused also participated in a pre-sentence report, and the woman involved had filed a victim impact statement.

On the audio replay, Daye could be heard offering a confession.

“Did you do those things?” Judge McLean asked in February.

“Yes, I did,” Daye replied.

McLean advised the accused Lutz was one of the most experienced defence lawyers in New Brunswick, but he would now need to secure new legal counsel.

The judge explained Daye had the right to make an application to have his guilty plea set aside, but he must demonstrate to the court why it should happen.

“That’s your burden, that’s your rock to push up the hill,” McLean said.

“It’s not impossible, but it’s tough. At the next hearing, you’re going to tell me if you want to be sentenced or if you want to get your plea set aside.”

Daye returns to court in custody by video on April 28 at 1:30 p.m.

In February, the court heard Daye put shackles on a woman and chained her to a couch. He threatened her life, put an electric dog collar around her neck, whipped her with a leather belt, and hit her with a

piece of wood. The woman told police he also dragged her by the hair, punched her in the head, and sat on her chest several times while smothering her with a pillow. The assault and confinement went on over several hours. The violence erupted with Daye accusing her of alleged infidelity, which the woman continued to deny during the beating.

When Daye set her free, it was to attend an appointment with social services and get groceries in town.

She got dressed and put on makeup to cover the bruises on her face. Daye grew angry again and backhanded her in the face on the way home. She complained about something being in her eye and slipped away to a neighbour to call for help. She was taken to the hospital to treat multiple bruises to her legs and most of her body.

Police arrested Daye after finding him hiding in a crawl space under a floor at his house. Daye waived his right to a bail hearing and remains in custody.

39 months for possessing loaded handgun Chance Arthur Leslie, 29, of Middle Hainesville, was sentenced March 24 to 39 months in federal prison, minus time served, after changing his plea to guilty to nine of 14 charges laid by RCMP. Leslie was arrested following a single-vehicle crash in Florenceville-Bristol on Aug. 2, 2021, when police seized a loaded handgun.

Judge Brian C. McLean ordered forfeiture of the handgun and imposed a lifetime prohibition on firearms for the accused.

Leslie appeared in court in custody by video for his sentencing. He has been in custody since his arrest in August.

“I want to get this over with and get my life back on track,” Leslie told the court.

“Hopefully, I can learn from my mistakes this time.”

Leslie pleaded guilty to possession of a fire-

arm while prohibited from having it, possession of a loaded, restricted firearm, a Glock nine-millimetre pistol, without a licence; carrying a concealed restricted weapon, possession of a firearm with the serial number altered, defaced or removed; possession of a firearm dangerous to the public peace, resisting arrest, assaulting a police officer, theft of a motor vehicle (a 2006 Toyota Corolla), and possession of stolen property.

On the day of the incident, while patrolling the Florenceville-Bristol area, RCMP located a vehicle in a field off Route 130. The vehicle appeared to have rolled over, and no one was inside. A short time later, police located a man walking near Station Road and Main Street intersection and detained him in connection with the crash.

While searching the individual, police found a loaded handgun by his waistband. A brief struggle ensued, but police were able to arrest the man and seized the firearm. No one was injured during the incident. Police later learned that the vehicle had been stolen.

Judge Brian C. McLean described the scene as a “hellishly serious event” that contained an element of danger for the police officers involved.

While detaining Leslie and writing him a ticket for an invalid driver’s license, he was sitting in the back seat of the police cruiser smoking a cigarette. Police became aware he might be armed after receiving information by radio at the scene. He also had a criminal record.

“This was not somebody out shooting partridge,” Judge McLean said. “This was somebody walking around with a loaded handgun down his pants.”

Leslie told the judge he had a drug problem with opiates but was now getting help for his mental health.

McLean encouraged him to take advantage of edu-

7

These pages contain some of the court coverage we provide for the community. Find all court stories on our Facebook page.

cational upgrading and counselling for drug abuse during his incarceration.

Defence Counsel David Estey said Leslie wanted a federal sentence to access these programs.

“It takes some people a little longer to grow up,” Estey said. “This will give him sufficient federal time to get some help and some training.”

Eight months for fleeing police, dangerous driving Lance Paul Claus, 24, of Newburg, was sentenced March 24 to eight months in provincial jail in relation to a high-speed chase with police last year.

Claus pleaded guilty in November to flight from police, dangerous driving and committing mischief causing property damage to a police vehicle concerning an April 25, 2021 incident. He also pleaded guilty to three counts of unlawfully being at large while under a release order to follow a curfew in relation to incidents between June 4 and Aug. 21, 2021, in Woodstock. Woodstock Police and RCMP laid the charges.

Claus received a suspended sentence and 12 months of probation for the mischief charge and was ordered to pay $4,596 in restitution for damage to the police vehicle. He was also prohibited from driving for 18 months.

The court heard Claus led police on a chase from Grafton into the Town of Woodstock before heading up the Trans Canada Highway toward Route 590 and the Rosedale Road. When he finally stopped, Claus rammed a police cruiser.

Judge Brian C. McLean told the court the incident was “much like a Hollywood movie.”

During the pursuit, the accused reached speeds over 145 kilometres per hour while driving through traffic lights and against oncoming traffic. A spike belt was used on Connell Street to try and stop him, but he was driving too fast for it to engage.

McLean called the flight from the police a “methamphetamine inspired crime.”

He noted Claus was using drugs at the time, and he had a criminal record that included other altercations with police.

“The manner in which Mr. Claus was driving was outrageous,” said Judge McLean.

“Unfortunately, this (flight from police) is not uncommon. But it is among the worst I’ve seen to date.”

Claus was held for a bail hearing and released with conditions after the incident. The judge said his sentence included six months for fleeing police and two months for “thumbing his nose” at the rules by breaching his curfew.

In custody following machete incident Brandon Alton Cullins, 35, of East Brighton, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on March 22 and returns for plea on April 12 at 11:30 a.m. He was denied bail at an earlier court appearance in relation to a police stand-off on Feb. 1 on Beardsley Road in Woodstock. On March 22, the matter was set over for plea at the request of his defence counsel.

He was charged by Woodstock Police with possession of a prohibited weapon (brass knuckles), possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace (a machete), committing mischief, uttering threats, assaulting a police officer with a weapon, attempting to break and enter a dwelling house, and possession of methamphetamine concerning the incident.

Police were called to the scene on Beardsley Road and closed down the street for more than an hour while convincing a man to drop his weapons and give himself up. He was transported to the hospital for treatment of frostbite to his hands and feet due to bitter cold temperatures at minus 30 degrees Celsius. The court heard the individual See COURT on pg. 9

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Sanctuary House hopes ‘dare to begin’ goes to your head

CNCF funds helps women’s shelter campaign spread awareness, raise money

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

W

oodstock’s Sanctuary House’s latest awareness and fundraising campaign began with three words, “dare to begin.”

Sanctuary House crisis intervention team member Melody Dickinson said the words adorn winter toques and baseball caps available for purchase. The purchase of the $20 hats helps fund the women’s shelter, and the “dare to begin” slogan delivers a message about the vital services it provides to abused women and children in the region.

The “dare to begin” campaign received a significant financial boost on April 8, when the Carleton North Community Foundation’s director Natalie Stacey delivered $4,200 in financial support to the campaign.

Dickinson said the

CNCF’s financial contribution would allow the purchase of more hats to expand the “dare to begin” program.

She said the toques already proved popular, noting a single Facebook post resulted in the sale of at least 100.

Dickinson said the campaign’s genesis dates back to last fall when a staff member came up with the slogan, which they believe represents the message of empowerment they want to deliver.

“We took that slogan, formed a project idea, applied for a grant, just to see if we could get financial help, and voila, we now have toques that we hope everyone will feel proud to wear,” she said.

Dickinson explained why they believe “dare to begin” resonates so deeply.

“When we say ‘dare to begin,’ our immediate thought goes to the woman who feels trapped in her relationship, who doesn’t see any chance to escape. She feels lonely, afraid and alone. What should she do? Who can she talk to? Why is this happening to her? Where can she go? What will happen if she leaves?

What will happen if she stays? So many questions race through her mind, not knowing what to do first.”

Dickinson said, “dare to begin’ provides the answer to those questions.

“Dare to ask that question.”

“Dare to make that call.”

“Dare to pack that bag.”

“Dare to walk outside.”

“Dare to look up that website.”

“Dare to stay with the friend for the night.”

Dickinson said that taking the first step is the hardest part for many women, but that first step, regardless of how it’s taken, is significant.

She said Sanctuary House staff and board hope those three words will start a conversation, stir curiosity, and encourage someone to reach out for information or take that first step.

The Carleton North Community Foundation was launched in 2008 with a $2 million donation from The McCain Foundation as part of McCain Foods’ 50th-anniversary celebrations. The Foundation supports various eligible organizations in areas of arts and culture, education, beautification, economic development, recreation, health and wellness, and the environment.

Carleton North Community Foundation director Natalie Stacey. right, presents a $4,200 cheque to Sanctuary House crisis intervention team member Melody Dickinson. (Jim Dumville photo)

The ‘dare to begin’ hats and toques come in different colours. (Jim Dumvile photo)

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COURT cont’d had been outside watching the residence for several hours. A set of brass knuckles were found frozen in his hand.

The incident began when the individual showed up at the residence door around 6 a.m. wielding a machete. When police arrived, he began threatening suicide. He had a machete in his right hand, brass knuckles in his left hand, a knife at his waist, and a pocket full of methamphetamine. He eventually surrendered to the police after being tasered.

RCMP charged Cullins with assault causing bodily harm to a female victim, assault with a weapon (an axe handle), uttering threats, and indictable assault involving an attack on the same woman with a broom handle. These charges were laid in relation to another incident between Jan. 30 and 31 in Mainstream.

The court heard the woman was taken to the hospital to treat a broken arm.

Sentenced to seven years in prison Matthew Johnston, 32, of Newburg, was sentenced March 23 to a total of seven years in federal prison, minus time served, for arson and discharging a firearm against local citizens for helping the police.

Judge Lucie N. Mathurin

ordered Johnston to register for the federal DNA database and imposed a lifetime prohibition on firearms. She told the court a lengthy jail sentence was necessary to reflect “strong denunciation and deterrence” for such crimes and to help ensure the protection of the public.

Johnston appeared in provincial court in custody by video and showed no emotion upon hearing his sentence. He reminded the judge he wanted credit for 368 days spent in remand since his arrest.

Johnston pleaded guilty to causing damage by fire to two vehicles owned by Campbell’s Towing and Auto Sales Ltd. in Woodstock, discharging a firearm at their home in Jacksonville, while being reckless as to whether a person was present and possession of a firearm while prohibited from having it. The charges were laid following incidents on Oct. 18-19, 2020.

Judge Mathurin noted Johnston had a history of drug abuse and a lengthy criminal record, serving periods in jail since 2011. The court heard he graduated from high school but began having behavioural problems at age 16. He worked as a mechanic and once held a job in Alberta.

During the first incident, Johnston and a male ac-

complice drove to a parking lot at night at Campbell’s business on Connell Street.

Two vehicles, a 1968 Chevelle and a 1980 Thunderbird, were burned. Video surveillance revealed the vehicles were set on fire with gasoline and the culprits making a speedy exit in a dark model sedan.

The fire was set the day after Campbell’s was called to tow away stolen property in Newburg as part of a police investigation. The property involved stolen lumber, a truck, and several ATVs. A woman contacted the business, stating she owned the truck and wanted it back. The towing company could not comply with her request as the truck had been seized by police.

Around 3 a.m. the following day, the Campbell home in Jacksonville was peppered with gunfire. The family was home at the time. They heard a loud car at the end of the driveway and 10 gunshots, four of which entered the bedroom where Campbell’s wife had been sleeping. One bullet was found in a pillow.

The drive-by shooting was an “exceedingly stressful event for all the victims,” the judge said, adding it created “considerable psychological trauma” for the Campbells. They had to leave their home and move to a new residence equipped with video

surveillance.

Following the shooting, police located the vehicle involved in both crimes in a driveway in Holmesville.

A shotgun was also found.

Johnston’s accomplice, Colby Davenport, was arrested at the scene and gave a statement about the incidents, identifying Johnston as the ringleader. Davenport said he was driving the car used in the arson and the shooting, and they also had a passenger, Dustin Broad. Johnston was later arrested at the Walmart in Fredericton.

Colby Davenport, 33, of Holmesville pleaded guilty to arson and being an accessory to the shooting. After almost a year in custody, he was released with strict conditions until sentencing, including house arrest and the wearing of an electronic monitoring device attached to his ankle. He will be sentenced on May 26 at 1:30 p.m.

12 months in jail for indictable assault Corey Andrew Lane, 36, of Woodstock, was sentenced on April 5 to12 months in provincial jail, minus time served, for a serious attack on his father. He appeared in court in custody for trial on March 11 and changed his plea to guilty of indictable mischief and indictable assault.

Lane was charged by RCMP concerning a dis-

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA pute with his father on Nov. 16, 2021, at an apartment building in Upper Woodstock. During a court appearance in December, Lane pleaded guilty to driving while suspended in relation to a separate incident in Woodstock on May 16, 2021. He was fined $750. On Nov. 19, 2021, he waived his right to a bail hearing and was remanded.

In addition to his jail sentence, Lane was also placed on probation for 18 months and ordered to seek counselling as required. A lifetime prohibition on firearms was also imposed.

Newburg man sentenced to 315 days Colton Brooks, 26, of Newburg, was sentenced on April 5 to 315 days in provincial jail after pleading guilty to several charges laid by RCMP. Brooks appeared in court in January and pleaded guilty to breaking and entering, uttering threats, impaired driving, and two counts of breach of a release order. He also pleaded guilty to taking a vehicle without consent and committing mischief during an earlier court appearance.

The charges were laid in relation to incidents in Nov. 2019 and April 2020 in Beechwood, April 2020 in Benton, and June and Aug. 2020 in Upper Woodstock.

9

In addition to his jail sentence, Brooks was placed on probation for 18 months and was prohibited from driving for one year. A 10-year firearm prohibition was also imposed.

Woodstock man to undergo another 30-day assessment A local man has been ordered to undergo another 30-day mental health assessment in relation to a fire that destroyed an apartment building on Union Street in Woodstock on Jan. 29.

Alexander Reese Gerdts, 30, appeared in provincial court in custody via teleconference on April 1. Woodstock Police charged him with arson and resisting arrest. He returns to court on April 29 for a bail hearing.

Gerdts was ordered to undergo a psychiatric assessment in Restigouche at his last court appearance. On April 1, the court granted an extension for the assessment to continue for another 30 days.

After his arrest, a five-day mental health assessment was conducted and he was found fit to stand trial and remanded.

Gerdts is receiving the mental health assessment for criminal responsibility. He was treated in hospital for mental health issues shortly before the fire.

10

’ TAKONUTOMAKONUWAL

(Maliseet word meaning ‘their stories’)

Indigenous News and Features Sponsored by Woodstock First Nation

Wolastoqey name proposed for town near Saint John

By Marlo Glass Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A

Wolastoqiyik chief is proposing the name Pehqitkopekek for the new community to be made up of Grand BayWestfield and a portion of the Westfield West service district.

The proposed name means “a familiar place of gathering with friends and family, after a long absence, where water is cold,” said Wolastoq Grand Chief Ron Tremblay, who appeared at a recent Grand Bay-Westfield council meeting.

A name for the new community – currently referred to as Entity 51 – is being sought as part of the local governance reform process.

Tremblay said he found the name Pehqitkopekek on a map made

by William F. Ganong in the 19th century.

“This is my proposal,” he said, “that this word will be considered by residents of Grand Bay and surrounding areas.”

The United Nations Declaration of Rights of Indigenous People (UN-

DRIP) states Indigenous people have the right “to revitalize, use, develop and transmit to future generations, their languages, traditions, philosophies, writing systems and literature, and designate and retain names for communities, places and persons,” Tremblay noted.

In early March, a naming committee was struck with representatives from Grand Bay-Westfield and the local service district.

Residents of both communities have until March 28 to submit their naming suggestions for the new community. After that, the committee will select the top five names, and the community will vote via ranked ballot in mid-April.

Tremblay told council he would be willing to help the naming committee with Indigenous names for the community.

Amanda Leblanc, former president and chief of the New Brunswick Aboriginal Peoples Council, and a Grand Bay-Westfield resident, said the

intent of an Indigenous name is to educate people.

“They want to know what this land was called before it became colonized,” she said.

Some people are “really, really nervous” about the community possibly having an Indigenous name, she said, but she pointed to Woolastook Drive, the Nerepis River and the nearby town of Quispamsis, which are all Wolastoquey names.

“It’s a journey – a long process to learn about things people didn’t know existed until more recently,” she said.

Grand Bay-Westfield Deputy Mayor Erin Toole said the whole naming process “should be about learning,” with Mayor Brittany Merrifield noting the proposed name would be “continuing a path of truth and reconciliation.”

The new name of Entity 51, Merrifield said, won’t change residential addresses, but rather is “to determine a name for the governing body of En-

Wolastoq Grand Chief Ron Tremblay is proposing the name Pehqitkopekek for the new community to be made up of Grand Bay-Westfield and a portion of the Westfield West service district. (Marlo Glass photo)

tity 51.”

Michael Likely, former deputy mayor of Grand Bay-Westfield, spoke out against the decision to rename, saying a new name would “destroy 600 years of history” in the region.

“The town does not need a new name,” he said. “Leave the name alone, get to work on the things you were elected to do.”

Likely told council that Grand Bay has had its name for more than 400 years, since it was “discovered” by Samuel de Champlain.

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“I don’t know,” he said.

“Apparently it was an Aboriginal name.”

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Town Coun. Stephanie McIntosh Lawrence asked Likely if he knew what the community’s name was prior to that.

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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 11

People’s Alliance of NB MLAs join Conservatives

Party dissolved by Elections NB; 2020 PANB candidate says loss of party is ‘loss for democracy’ in New Brunswick RIVER VALLEY SUN

I

n a stunning political manoeuvre, the only elected People’s Alliance of New Brunswick (PANB) MLAs crossed the floor, joining Premier Blaine Higgs and the Progressive Conservative government.

At a news conference on March 30, PANB leader Kris Austin told the media he did a lot of ‘soul searching’ after his party lost one of three seats in the last provincial election.

Austin and fellow MLA Michelle Conroy said joining the Conservatives was the best way to serve the people of their respective ridings. Austin represents the riding of Fredericton-Grand Lake, while Conroy was elected in the Miramichi riding.

Premier Blaine Higgs’s government gains two more seats in the legislature. He welcomed Austin and Conroy with open arms.

“Two very dedicated individuals who represent

their ridings with all their hearts want to be part of a changing province that’s on the move,” he said at the news conference.

Shortly after the announcement, New Brunswick’s Chief Electoral Officer Kimberly Poffenroth said Elections NB received an application from the PANB leader asking for the party to be dissolved. The request was granted “in accordance with the Elections Act.” The news shocked party faithful, including former PANB candidate Graham Gill. Gill ran against Carleton MLA and Public Safety Minister Bill Hogan, coming in second on the 2020 ballot.

“We lost an anchor of democracy,” he said after hearing the news. “We’ve basically moved back to a two-party system in New Brunswick. The Greens really aren’t on the radar.

The NDP is non-existent.

We now are back to two choices, and neither is a

choice for a lot of people,” said Gill when contacted by the River Valley Sun after the announcement.

Gill said he’s disappointed local associations and party members weren’t given a chance to host a leadership convention and continue the PANB’s work.

“I’m more dismayed at the party simply being shut down without the option of a leadership convention or even giving us the option to continue.

The riding associations were not involved in any of those talks,” said Gill.

“They had seats (in the legislature), and they had momentum. There is a ton of people who are extremely dissatisfied with the Higgs government,” he added.

Gill said he wished Kris Austin all the best but believes the former PANB leader will regret his decision.

“I think he’s probably going to suffer because of it. I don’t see party crossing as a viable option. It usually has negative im-

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New Brunswick MLAs Kris Austin and Michelle Conroy joined Premier Blaine Higgs on Wednesday, March 30, to announce they were joining the Progressive Conservative Party. Their former party, the People’s Alliance of New Brunswick (PANB), was dissolved by Elections NB the same week. (GNB photo)

pacts on the person, but time will tell,” said Gill Gill now wonders what will happen to the money raised by members.

“I know local associations have money. Where does that go? People have bought memberships. The Carleton riding was growing, and we had

more and more people wanting to get involved because they were displeased with our local MLA and the government in general. That money should go back to people who paid memberships,” he said.

Under the Elections Act, once a party’s debts

are paid, Elections New Brunswick forwards any monies left to the province’s consolidated fund.

An Elections NB official clarified to the River Valley Sun that the consolidated fund was the Government of New Brunswick’s general bank account.

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Entity 73 info shared at Woodstock public meeting

Open House and pamphlets designed to educate about municipal reform

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

T

he town of Woodstock and the Entity 73 Municipal Reform Advisory Committee took steps to better inform area residents about the ongoing efforts that will see Woodstock and five surrounding local service districts form a single community by Jan. 1, 2023.

Those steps included an open house at the AYR Motor Centre Gallery Room on Monday, April 11.

The provincial reform outlined in a White Paper issued by the New Brunswick government last fall outlines the creation of 77 local governments. Six communities in the greater Woodstock area will form Entity 73.

The municipal reform advisory committee also created and mailed out pamphlets explaining reform data and plans to all addresses in the Entity 73 region.

According to the pamphlet, Entity 73 will in-

clude Woodstock, 100 per cent of the Richmond, Northampton and Upper and Lower Northampton LSDs, 50 per cent of the Wakefield LSD, and 80 per cent of the Woodstock LSD. The advisory committee, facilitated by provincial appointed representative Don Ferguson, includes representatives from the six communities and two other members.

In addition to Ferguson, the committee consists of Woodstock Mayor Art Slipp, LSD chairs Roy Culberson of Wakefield, Brian Hayden of Woodstock, May Atkinson of Richmond, Graham Gill of Northampton and Paul Vandervalk of Upper and Lower Northampton.

The committee also includes Joe Gallant, acting local services manager with the Department of Energy and Local Government, and Karen Taylor, from the Minister’s Advi-

sory Committee, as an ad hoc member.

Two other committees meet regularly to take on issues inherent in the municipal reform. Municipal administrators, including Woodstock CAO Andrew Garnett, deal with various administrative requirements, including required bylaw and structural changes surrounding the administration of the larger community.

The Western Valley Regional Service Commission also established a committee to deal with additional mandates under its jurisdiction under the new municipal model.

The pamphlet outlines information on the process, including anticipated timelines for final decisions, including the department’s submission for community and ward boundaries.

Upcoming timelines include the subunit structure for taxation areas to Service New Brunswick by

April 11.

The province set a target date of May 16 for naming the newly formed community. The process will include consideration of suggestions from the public. Anyone with a name suggestion can submit it by email to nameentity73@gmail.com or drop it in one of the suggestion boxes at AYR Motor Centre or Woodstock town hall

by May 9.

The committee already approved the structure of the municipal council, which will be a modified ward system of eight councillors and a mayor.

Woodstock, as Ward 4, will elect four council members. The system will divide the outlying communities into Wards 1, 2, 3 and 5, with each ward electing one councillor.

Voters within each ward will cast ballots for their representative on council, with the top four candidates in Ward 4 earning a seat at the council table.

Voters in all five wards will

News from in and around Nackawic Luncheon and tea planned, United Way training event

By Julie Stone

Spring Lunch/Tea: In honour of the end of winter and the beginning of Spring, the Age-Friendly Committee is hosting a Luncheon and Tea at the Lions Centre in Nackawic on April 28.

The event will begin at noon and consist of a light lunch with tea and deserts. It will be reminiscent of days gone by with real china cups and mugs and china plates for serving. It is open to all, with mask-wearing mandatory and a simple donation of a Toonie. Join us for this

celebration!

United Way Training Two First Aid courses are being held at the Nackawic Lions Centre in May. A refresher course will be held on May 1 for $64, taxes included.

The second is a blended Workplace Standard First Aid/Level C CPR/AED at $121, taxes included, held on May 7.

The blended course consists of an eight-hour online component and a one-day in-class component. To register or to get additional information go to cmartinkcm@gmail.

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Babysitting Course A babysitting course will be held at the Nackawic Lions Centre on Saturday, April 30, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Participants must be 11 and older. COVID protocols will be maintained, and there must be at least 15 participants to run the course. Each instructor may only have 25 participants.

Please make sure you supply a contact phone number and e-mail address when registering.

Please bring a lunch and arrive no later than 15

minutes before class.

Please have a teddy bear or doll about the size of a small baby to the class. It will be used to practice needed skills.

Payment Options: · E-transfers: Please send to nackawicareawellness@gmail.com or drop off payment to the Nackawic Town Office.

Please direct questions to Nackawic Area Wellness by the above e-mail or go on Facebook.

Daniel Allain, the New Brunswick minister responsible for municipal reform, visited representatives of Entities 72, 73 and 74 on April 6. (Jim Dumville photo)

elect the mayor.

Election day for all New Brunswick’s new entities will be Nov. 28.

The estimated population for the newly formed Entity 73 is 10,349 people, with a tax base of more than $927 million.

The population breakdown shows Ward 4, which includes much of the town of Woodstock, with 3,689 residents. Ward 1 has 1,008, Ward 2 with 1,275, Ward 3 with 1,156, and Ward 5 with 1,322.

Mayor Slipp said the

town added information about the municipal reform process to its website at www.town.woodstock. nb.ca.

Area residents can also search for additional information on the Government of New Brunswick website.

Editors’ note: Because of early print deadlines during Easter week, the meeting took place after the River Valley Sun went to press.

Check River Valley Sun’s Facebook page for story or stories about the meeting.

John’s Floor Service Ltd. in Woodstock is a proud supporter of the River Valley Sun. Visit the John’s Flooring Facebook page.

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 13

Nackawic council approves recreation and public works purchases

Hydrobikes for waterfront in summer, kicksleds for winter to keep residents active

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

N

ackawic council approved several purchases over the past two council meetings aimed at providing recreational benefits for area residents and additional equipment for its public works crews.

At its March 21 meeting council approved the purchase of 10 kicksleds for use by Nackawic residents in winter. Coun. Gail Farnsworth said the sleds provide an excellent opportunity for area residents, especially seniors and people with mobility issues, to be active in winter.

Mayor Ian Kitchen described the device as “dog

sleds without the dogs.”

Farnsworth said the town would story the sleds at the town hall garage where canoes for the waterfront are currently stored.

“People can call to take them out for two or three days,” she said.

During council discussion, Farnsworth explained that the kicksleds are ideal on packed snow trails.

While the total cost of the kicksleds is $3,624, tax included, Farnsworth told council an Action Community Grant, arranged through Kent Kuhn, a consultant for the Sports and

Recreation Branch of the New Brunswick Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture, will cover most of the purchase.

Farnsworth said the cost to the town would be a mere $79.

Nackawic also approved the purchase of four hydrobikes for rental use on the Nackawic waterfront.

CAO Kathryn Clark said the floating pedal bikes are similar to those available to rent at Delta Fredericton.

She explained the total cost of the hydrobikes is just over $15,000, noting they will be available for rental this summer. While

the rental fee is yet to be confirmed, she expects the price to be $25 per hour.

At the Monday, April 3 meeting, council approved quotes from Topmar Building Supplies of Nackawic and Howie R. Brid and Sons Ltd. of Fredericton for materials needed to finalize the marina docks’ construction. Topmar will provide treated lumber for $17,635, while Howie R Bird and Sons quoted $9,982 for floats and docksystem parts.

The marina is a central part of the town’s growing waterfront project.

Council also unani-

(File photo)

mously approved the purchase of a galvanized dump trailer for use by the public works and recreation departments. While the quote from L&M Ventures at $18,410 was almost $4,000 more than the ungalvanized options it

and other bidders offered, the public works committee recommended it as the best long-term option.

Coun. Bob Simpson noted one of the committee members said it came down to an issue of “pay now or pay later.”

Inspection team to examine aging Nackawic water tower in June Town hears partiers and rock-throwers threaten damage to the tank

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A

s Nackawic’s water tank nears its 20th year of operation, the town hired an inspection team to examine the structure in June, Public Works committee chair Brian Toole told council on Monday, March 21.

In his report, Toole explained the town needs to improve its tank protection from potential public damage. He said the area around the tank had been a gathering place for several years. He described the water tower as a “bolted steel tank with a glass lining” installed in 2003.

Toole said fresh tire marks indicate cars continue to park at the roundabout near the tank.

He added that people throwing rocks at the tank present one of the structure’s biggest threats.

He explained the damage created by the rocks doesn’t pose a significant danger to the exterior of the water tower but could cause cracks in the glass seal around the interior walls.

“Chip on the outside is not a problem. It’s the chip on the inside,’ Toole said.

Judging by the graffiti on the tank, he explained, the fence surrounding the tank fails to keep people away.

“We’ve got to do a better job with that. Protecting what we have there,” said Mayor Ian Kitchen.

He suggested studying ways to eliminate access to the property to protect against “partiers, rockthrowers or whoever else gets in there.”

Coun. Bob Simpson agreed with the mayor, suggesting the public works committee discuss ways to discourage partying and throwing rocks.

Toole said the June inspection is part of a comprehensive maintenance manual developed to oversee the upkeep of the 38-foot tall, 42-foot diameter structure called a “standpipe.”

While slow in some cases, Toole said, most of the inspections were completed as outlined in the

plan.

He said staff carried out annual inspections and the tank’s five-year internal physical examination scheduled for 2008 went ahead in 2009. He said the inspection created a list of “things to do,” mainly regarding safety issues. He said no one produced a follow-up report.

Toole said a company

called Greatario inspected the tower in 2018, five years after it was due in 2013. He said the video and physical exterior review reported “a lot of stone chips on the exterior.”

Toole said Greatario would conduct the 2022 inspection. He added public works officials would work with the contractors

to ascertain information about the water tank, including the cost of replacing the tank without a new foundation and replacement with a new foundation. It will also develop a list of annual checks and find out the estimated life of the current tank.

“It will be interesting to see what these guys find,” said the mayor.

JUST IN TIME FOR EASTER

ageless New Brunswick SCOLIOSIS SCHOLARS Emma Keenan, Lilly McLaughlin, and Isabelle Fletcher share their scoliosis journies. Also in this issue, the life of Peter DeMerchant, revisit the old Broadway School, and paying tribute to a special father. On newsstands Easter Weekend!

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Construction to start soon on NCRC expansion

As steel arrives for facility, fundraising committee unveils sponsorship program

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

W

ith the first load of steel expected to arrive around the middle of April, the new multi-purpose Northern Carleton Community Centre (NCRC) construction will soon be underway in earnest, said Florenceville-Bristol recreation manager Charles Walker. So will the NCRC sponsorship campaign, raising approximately $1.5 million to cover the balance of the construction costs of the estimated $10.7 million facility.

The expansive structure attached to the existing Northern Carleton Civic Centre will include a multi-purpose gymnasium with a raised walking track, a gymnastic gym, a rock-climbing wall, and a community room and kitchen.

The building will stretch from the civic centre towards the nearby Florenceville Curling Club. Walker said a walkway would connect the new building to the curling club. He said the entire complex would provide a

one-stop opportunity for a long list of recreational and community events and activities.

With the foundation in place and construction costs rising, Walker explained, the town hopes to begin construction as soon as possible.

He said suppliers confirmed the first load of steel should arrive on April 18.

“Realistically, when the people see, visually, the construction above ground, they know that’s the project, they’re excited,” Walker said.

While he understands supply-chain concerns hindered projects and the delivery of goods over the past several months, Walker said that no one raised concern about the NCRC construction to date. But he’s realistic.

“The hope is there, that there will be no more hiccups or issues, but the reality is there,” he said.

Walker said the town already has a fundraising committee in place and a sponsorship program

offering options ranging from $150 to $100,000.

He added the committee is developing fundraising events, including a campaign launch at a yet-tobe-determined date.

Walker explained the federal and provincial governments and a McCain family-led group of private investors had already provided more than $9 million in construction funding.

He added the town also committed construction funding to the project, but its primary investment surrounds the ongoing operational costs of the facility.

The sponsorship program offers a variety of price points and benefits to local businesses and individuals. The $100,000 premium sponsorship buys a 10-year naming right to either the gymnastics facility or the gymnasium floor, with the offer on a first-come, first-serve basis. It is subject to review. The premium sponsorship includes other benefits, such as up to 75 hours of free usage and

Florenceville-Bristol Recreation Manager Charles Walker, left, accepts a cheque from Dr. Clay Marco and Coralee Cole of Marco Medical Ltd. to kick off the NCRC sponsorship drive. (Submitted photo)

widespread logo visibility.

The $25,000 Platinum Sponsorship comes with a 10-year naming right to the community room, walking track or climbing wall and other benefits.

The $10,000 Gold Sponsorship offers 25 hours of free community room use and widespread acknowledgement through radio, newspaper, social media advertising and other benefits.

The program also offers a $10,000 scoreboard sponsorship with the donor’s name prominently displayed on the gymnasium scoreboard for five years and other benefits.

The $5,000 Silver

Sponsorships include, among other benefits, name recognition.

In addition to the benefits and recognition from their levels, all sponsorship purchases offer the same benefits handed out for the $1,000 Bronze Sponsorship buyers, including tax deduction, logo link on the town website, social media recognition, acknowledgement at the grand opening, and advertising on the lobby’s rolling slideshow and a place on the sponsorship wall.

With local support of many businesses already secured, Walker expects strong financial

commitment from community businesses and residents. He described the response in the area as “very positive.”

Walker said the NCRC would offer needed facilities, noting the shortage of gyms for minor basketball as an example. He said the highly successful Valley Gymnastics Club deserved a location to meet its needs.

Walker said the multipurpose centre, including the arena, offers ideal space for tournaments, trade shows and other events to boost the local economy, especially the hospitality and tourism industries.

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SUNNY-SIDE UP

Providing Readers with a Challenge, a Chuckle, and a Smile

River Valley Sun Word Search: OUR BODIES

Did you KNOW? •Our heart beats around 100,000 times a day, or 30 million times a year.

•There are approximately 2.5 trillion red blood cells in your body at any moment. To maintain that number, about 2.5 million new ones need to be produced every second by your bone marrow.

• DST gained new popularity during the energy crisis. In 1973 the American government was looking for ways to reduce public consumption. DST was imposed in the U.S. in 1974.

• A sneeze generates a wind of approximately 166 km/hr, and a cough moves at about 100 km/h.

• Hair follicles are formed by the time an unborn baby is in their fifth month of gestation.

RVS TONGUE TWISTER

Which wristwatches are Swiss wristwatches?

CARLETON COUNTY

Colloquialisms

By John Morris fiddleheadin’ \’’fid-ul-hed-din\ verb

kneecap

heart

elbow

ribs

skull foot

liver

fingers

eyes

femur

throat

ears

nose skin

brain

lungs

LET’S STAY ACTIVE

- The act of harvesting fiddleheads, the edible juvenile fronds of the ostrich fern (Matteucia struthiopteris), which resemble the heads of violins; “Uncle Richard’s goan fiddleheadin’ and he wants to borrow your rubbers.”

Fiddleheads are a local delicacy, and a former dietary staple of the Micmac and Maliseet natives. They grow in boggy areas bordering on rivers and streams, and are delicious. Attempts, some quite ambitious, to cultivate fiddleheads commercially have met with little success. CAUTION: Don’t go fiddleheadin’ if you don’t know what you’re doing: mature ostrich ferns (and other wild ferns) are toxic!

Hear this word pronounced at www.dooryard.ca.

SPRING is finally here !

SUMMER PROGRAM REGISTRATION NIGHT

YOUTH ZONE AFTER SCHOOL DROP-IN

Wednesday, May 11 - 6 to 8 p.m.

For Grades 6 to 9 Monday to Friday

AYR Motor Field House

Great opportunity to come check out all of the programs, events and activities going on for you and your family this Summer!

Check out our Facebook Page for updates on the groups and organizations that will be in attendance!

THE TIM HORTONS JOE MCGUIRE ROAD RACE IS BACK!!!

SAVE THE DATE: Saturday, July 30, 2022 10K Super Series, 5K run, 5K walk !

Register today on the RunNB website: www.runnb.ca

WOODSTOCK BOXING CLUB

Offering Junior Boxing Program, Womens Boxing Fitness, Boxing Training, and FREE Intro Classes!

Check out the WBC Facebook page for details!

(closed on holidays) at the AYR Motor Centre Field House Join us after school for a variety of activities and games!

THIS IS A FREE ACTIVITY thanks to the generous sponsorship of

The Woodstock Rotary Club!

AQUATIC FACILITY Lap and Public Swims

Check out our schedule on the Town of Woodstock website!

LIFEGUARD CERTIFICATION National Lifeguard Certification

This course is combined with Workplace Standard First Aid and CPR-C. Prerequisite: Must be 15 years old, Bronze Cross (need not be current), and a current Workplace Standard First Aid Certificate before examination. The course runs May 20 to May 29.

Cost: $250/person (pool & classroom time) Recertification: $70 Call us at 325-4302 for schedule details. Must register in advance.

16

CONGRATULATIONS WESTERN VALLEY PANTHERS Team captures Provincial Junior C 2022 Championship

Read the full story about the championship victory on page 29

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 17

Why Choose this Job: Juniper Organics is a small peat moss production site that operates year-round with increased operations in the summer months. All positions offer the ability to cross-train in many roles, thereby increasing individual wages. Some roles may include night and shift work.

The opportunities: • Labourer • Loader Operator • Tractor Operator • Quality Assurance Technician, Student

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18

NEIGHBOURHOOD NEWS Information and Updates from Your Towns, Villages, and Local Service Districts

Perth-Andover Kill Chicago at Oak Tree The band Kill Chicago will be playing for two nights at The Oak Tree Retaurant and Pub at 1333 Aroostook Road in Perth Andover on Satruday, April 23 and Sunday April 24.

Women’s Day Event There will be a Women’s Day event on April 23 at the River Valley Civic Centre from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Vendors wanting to take part can call Tasha Woods at (506) 273-4959 ex. 2.

Florenceville-Bristol FES ‘Apple a Day’ The Florenceville Elementary School Home and School are selling tickets on Apple products.

The $10 tickets give you the chance to win one of five Apple tech products through draws over five consecutive days, starting May 2. Beginning with an Apple Home Pod Mini, the draws, in order, offer AirPods, Apple Watch, iPad Gen 9, and iPad mini.

Tickets are available at Florenceville-Bristol Scotiabank or by eTransfer at feshomeandschool@ gmail.com

Easter Egg-stravaganza On April 16, the Florenceville-Bristol Rec. Dept. is hosting some Easter family fun at the Northern Carleton Civic Centre.

Line up begins on the NB Trail for a “Hippity, Hoppity Egg Hunt .” After your hunt, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., children can get their faces painted, jump on bouncy castles and other inflatables, eat snacks, sip on some River’s Edge Lemonade, and enjoy a special guest appearance from the Easter Bunny. Admission is free. More information is available at 392-6763 ext. 209 or programs@florencevillebristol.ca.

Special Garbage Day Florenceville-Bristol’s big garbage pickup will be Thursday, May 5. Please ensure everything is boxed, bagged or bundled with 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

Juniper Breakfast and more The Juniper Community Centre serves a hearty breakfast with a variety

of delicious choices every Saturday morning from 8 to 11 a.m. The centre’s stores featuring used clothing, knick-knacks and more offer plenty of great options for the entire family.

Job opportunity The Juniper Community Centre has a job opening for a student who qualifies for the SEED program. For more information, call 4253085 or email: junipercommunitycentre@gmail.com The successful applicant takes on a long list of duties while working in a friendly environment with the public.

Woodstock Breakfast for Ukraine Woodstock Baptist Church is holding a benefit breakfast on Saturday, April 30, with all proceeds donated towards the relief efforts in Ukraine through the Red Cross. Breakfast will be served from 8 to 10:30 a.m., with admission by donation.

WCA Ukraine Fundraiser Serhii Makohoniuk, a Ukrainian living in Woodstock, will join fellow staff members and students at Woodstock

Summer Market returns The Outdoor Summer Market will return each Thursday in July and August from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Riverside Park. The market offers music, delicious foods, fresh veggies and more. Anyone interested in being a vendor or providing musical entertainment can contact Charles at nccc@florencevillebristol. ca or 392-6763 ext. 210 for more information.

Community Yard Sale: Florenceville-Bristol’s annual Community-Wide Yard Sale takes place Saturday, May 2. Starting at 8:30 a.m., people can follow the map and shop around town with locations on where to find participating sellers. Any individuals, families, businesses, or organizations wanting to participate can register their location by paying a $10 participation fee to be put on our communitywide map. To ensure you get on the map, contact the Florenceville-Bristol Rec. Dept. at 392-6763 ext.

209 or email programs@ florencevillebristol.ca. The community map will be released three days before the event!

Christian Academy and the local Ukrainian community to raise humanitarian assistance for people in the wartorn nation. The fundraising event will take place on April 23. The academy is asking local businesses and residents for donations. All money raised will go to the BCU Foundation, a Canadian Registered Charity with ties to Ukrainians on the ground in the areas hardest hit by the war.

Egg Hunt and Swim The Woodstock Recreation Department will host an Easter Egg and Swim event on April 16 at the AYR Motor Centre pool. With a maximum of 75 swimmers at each, Sessions will run from 9 to 9:45 a.m., and the second from 10:15 to 11 a.m.

Touch of the Irish

Councillor celebrates birthday

W

oodstock Coun. Randy Leonard spent his birthday doing what has become a tradition — wearing his big green Shamrock hat while sharing coffee with friends. Born on St. Patrick’s Day (we’ll just say several years ago), Leonard loves to bring out his Irish side and celebrate. You can bet his time at Walter’s Table in Woodstock on March 17 may have included a few tall tales to go along with the laughs and birthday wishes. After all, the Woodstock councillor and former mayor is a charter member of the Woodstock Liars Club. (Jim Dunville photo)

Nackawic Income Tax Reminder If your income is under $40,000 and you need help completing your tax return, call 575-2241 and make an appointment to get them completed for free. Or, you can drop the forms to the Town Office in Nackawic. Do it soon as the CRA deadline is fast approaching!

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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Musicians celebrate return to stage with Benefit for Ukraine

Musician says fundraiser possible as end of COVID restrictions allow return of Country Music Jamborees

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

M

usician Al Cosman welcomes a return of live Country Music Jamborees to the area. He is also happy the post-COVID return to the stage allows him and his many musical friends to hold a special jamboree in support of relief efforts for war-torn Ukraine.

On Saturday afternoon, April 30, Cosman will be among the at least 20 performers singing and playing at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Charles Street in Woodstock at the Benefit for Ukraine.

Admission to the jamboree, starting at 1:30 p.m., will be by donation, with 100 per cent of funds raised to support the Red Cross’s Ukrainian relief efforts.

Cosman said the list of performers includes many familiar faces for music fans in the region.

The list includes, in addition to Cosman, Mike Wheeler, Jack McAfee,

John Cahill, Ellie Sullivan, Tom Ryan, Noel Nason, Vera Doughtery, Betty Kirkland, Charlie Bell, Tanya Cloutier, Eric and Janice Brydges, Shelly and Watson Kierstead, Dale and Bonnie MacElwain, Ray and Barb Kierstead and Gary Beatty.

Cosman said regular attendees at country jamborees in the area would be familiar with most of the names on the list, noting they have been long-time jamboree performers.

He cited Tanya Cloutier, the Canterbury mayor, as a newer name, adding, “she has a beautiful voice.”

Cosman explained that the past two years of COVID restrictions kept jamboree performers off the stage, except for two months when the government eased protocols.

Since the recent lifting of restrictions, he said, the jamboree circuit is returning to its regular schedules.

The regular Monday night performances at the Y’s Men’s Club returned in early April. Cosman said other jamborees, including Coldstream’s show which hits the stage every second Saturday night, and the Thursday evening jamborees in Bath also began He said several communities in the area host jamborees regularly.

Cosman said the regular shows offer an excellent opportunity for local musicians to get together and socialize with their friends in the community.

Cosman, who lives in Woodstock and grew up in Mapledale, near Debec, said he played guitar for almost 75 years. He said he fell in love with country music as a child and immediately wanted to learn to play the guitar.

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Carleton County performer Al Cosman and 10 fellow area musicians and singers will host a Country Music Jamboree at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Woodstock, on Saturday, April 30 at 1:30 p.m. ro raise funds to support Ukraine. (Submitted photo)

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Carson said promotion and fundraising for the Ukraine event got underway in early April, with Ukraine benefit posters displayed throughout the community. He said they also reached out to local businesses for fundraising support.

He expressed appreciation to the Knights of Columbus, which donated the use of its hall, which he described as an excellent venue for a jamboree.

Red Cross launched its Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal in late February. Donations to the effort enable the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement to respond to humanitarian needs.

The Canadian government announced Global Affairs Canada would match individual donations to the Red Cross Ukraine effort, up to $10 million.

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Q&A: Public Safety Minister Bill Hogan RIVER VALLEY SUN

C

arleton MLA Bill Hogan was sworn into office as New Brunswick’s new Public Safety Minister during a virtual ceremony in late February.

The rookie MLA and former principal of Woodstock High School will take over the role overseeing the province’s police and other security and safety efforts.

The River Valley Sun reached out to Hogan with a few questions: 1) What do you bring to this portfolio?

Sadly, as a high school principal, I have seen the effects of drug addiction on young people about to enter adulthood and on entire families.

When you have direct contact with the people affected, you realize that it is devastating. These are real people, and real lives are being impacted.

Now, as Minister of

Public Safety, I have a role to play in some of the ways that we can address this.

2) What do you consider your first priority (and why is this first for you) as you take on this role?

In everything we do, our government’s priority is to ensure that people can live, thrive and feel secure in their day-to-day lives.

That’s true for all Departments and equally so for the Department of Justice and Public Safety (JPS) which is responsible for a variety of roles, including 911, EMO, peace officers in Enforcement and Inspections, Technical Inspection Services, corrections and coroner services.

My priority is to ensure citizens feel safe. One of the ways we are doing that is by focusing attention on addressing drugs and crime, particularly in rural New Brunswick.

I want to see effective, responsive policing. I know

New Brunswickers want to see that too. They want to have increased confidence in policing, and local governments want to know that they are getting good value for money they commit to policing.

3) How will your plans work/connect with the addictions initiative the health minister announced last fall in Woodstock?

That’s an important point. Enforcement is just one tool to address this issue.

If you need help, reach out for it. And to those who are dealing drugs and ruining lives, we’re taking more action to put an end to what you are doing.

We also recognize the need for real action against those running these criminal enterprises, but we haven’t ignored the need for health solutions.

The Interdepartmental Addiction and Mental

Health Plan launched in February 2021 has four key pillars: 1. Prevention, 2. Treatment; 3. Harm Reduction, and 4. Community Safety. The 2021-22 provincial budget committed about $7 million to support that plan.

On the Public Safety side, we are also taking action. In budget 2021-22, the Government of New Brunswick committed an additional $4.3 million in funding for the RCMP’s provincial crime reduction unit and for JPS’s safer communities unit.

Between April and December of 2021, the RCMP’s Provincial Crime Reduction Unit has seized 14,995 methamphetamine capsules and tablets. It has also seized 3,940 opioid capsules and tablets, 19 weapons and 2,722 grams of cocaine. Over the same period, the Safer Communities Unit recorded 32 successful resolutions from

File photo

investigations under the Safer Communities and Neighbourhoods Act. 4) What do you want to accomplish before the end of this term?

I want to make a difference. I want to see progress in addressing the trade in illegal drugs and see an impact from taking on drug-driven crime. I also want to see that communities and local governments get the information

they need to determine if they are getting effective, responsive policing for the funding they commit to policing.

I know the work of my department is only part of the way those issues can be addressed, but as government has done throughout this mandate, I am going to help drive meaningful progress on the files that are important to our communities.

Townsview Home & School Spring Fundraiser returns Money to support school programs and students

By Karen Palmer

T

he Townsview Home & School Association is gearing up for May’s second annual Spring Fundraiser.

After the huge success of the first fundraiser last year, the association decided to continue with it in 2022, focusing on creating inclusive learning environments, physical health, growth, and overall wellness for students at Townsview School.

“With our last spring

fundraiser, we sold 765 tickets, which shows such huge community support for Townsview School. We were able to give $1,000 to Resource to purchase much-needed supplies and $6,000 to support classroom literacy, which gave teachers the opportunity to purchase exactly what they needed in their classrooms,” said association president Pam Steeves.

The group also purchased over $500 worth of extra supplies for the school, including sneakers,

rubber boots, splash pants, and bathing suits and towels for kids involved in the swim program.

Steeves said the association would like to be able to continue to support Resource at the school and work with the school to identify and meet their needs.

She noted spin bikes, which the association sponsored in the past, proved to be a big hit with the students.

“Just a few minutes on the bike is such a great

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break for the students and a great opportunity to be physically active,” said Steeves.

“Some students use it as a mental reset. It gives an opportunity for improvement in overall wellness.

Our hope is to purchase at least four more.”

Steeves said local businesses have been very supportive.

“We’ve reached out to a few, including Century 21 All Seasons Realty, which generously donated an iPad. Kent Building Sup-

plies donated a barbecue. I think these prize packages are going to be even better than last year,” Steeves explains.

This year’s fundraiser has five prize packages, each valued at approximately $500. Tickets will go on sale the week of May 2 and 9, with the draw

date May 30. There will be 2000 tickets printed for purchase, making the chances of winning much better.

Tickets are $10 each, with all the proceeds going directly back to the school.

Tickets are available at Buntings Grocery, Kojak’s PetroCan, and the Townsview School office.

BMR Besthome Hardware & Building Supplies in Florenceville-Bristol is a proud supporter of the River Valley Sun. www.bmr.ca

Village of Perth-Andover Council briefs

By Karen Palmer

T

he following items of business were discussed at the March 14 session of the Perth-Andover Village council: Support for Ukraine Perth-Andover Mayor Marianne Bell began the council session by reading a statement on behalf of the council and the community regarding the unrest in Ukraine.

“The community of Perth-Andover watches in horror as Russia viciously attacks the independent country of Ukraine. We value our democracy and freedom here in Canada, and we absolutely condemn the brutal invasion. We are seeing along with the destruction, injury, turmoil, and death it is creating. We urge everyone in our community to support Ukraine by whatever means you have available to you: money, prayers, letters, volun-

teering, or other things, and we wish a speedy recovery from this attack.”

Local Government Reform Mayor Mariann Bell shared the province’s municipal reform timeline with councillors.

The government plans to complete amalgamation by the new year.

The community type and name will be decided

by May 16. The human resources plan is expected

by August. The budget will be completed by October, and the new council will be sworn in on Jan. 1, 2023.

Councillors were told information had been sent to communities to help them determine new town plans, names, roles and responsibilities for new town councils, tax bases, etc.

A map detailing the wards selected by the province was also shared, which shows the Andover Parish with 385 voters, and they have taken the

250 voters in and around Aroostook and put those in with the 150 voters from the Perth Parish.

Between those entities, there are just under 800 voters. Ward 2, which is the existing village of Perth-Andover, has 1225 voters. More information about the council composition being recommended is expected soon.

The council was told the province’s goal is equal voter representation, and it appears that Ward 1 would have one rep, Ward 3 would have one representative, and Ward 2 would have three, based on the population numbers.

Decisions will be made about government reform, including whether the new municipal entity will be rural vs. urban, whether the new community would be a town, village or rural community, and how that would relate to the current Community Planning Act. More

information is expected from the province in the coming weeks.

Help from naming guide The new municipality that will be created through amalgamation will need a name.

The province provided an easy-to-follow ‘Naming Guide’ to assist with the title change and its implementation. The province has appointed two people to help communities choose their names, and if there were alternative approaches, they would like to be vetted by a Local Governance Reform (LGR) team.

Councillor Jason Green noted that many citizens of the community do not understand what is taking place. He suggested people should communicate with the local village council and research what the government is doing to be aware and involved.

Green noted the frustration within the council and

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 21

with the Advisory Committee over the process and the lack of listening from the government related to regional concerns and requests. He noted that feedback from community members is encouraged and wanted.

New plow truck A new plow truck for the village was purchased and arrived in March. It was noted that the village’s current plow truck had a radiator hose malfunction which resulted in the complete loss of the vehicle.

Communication will take place with the insurance company to determine if the cost of the new truck is covered or if the town needs to assist with payment. If insurance does cover the price, the town will look into purchasing another used truck to have as an alternate.

Flood Insurance In February, councillors took part in a meet-

ing about flood insurance.

Lisa Munn is part of the committee determining a Flood Insurance Program for properties that sit in flood zones. The goal is to create affordable insurance for people and have national insurance coverage for properties in a flood plain, which is part of a new federal program that may be subsidized through the Government of Canada.

The only hiccup will be if a person or business has flood insurance, they would no longer qualify for disaster financial assistance, which concerns councillors.

This national committee is still in the discussion stage, and nothing has been finalized. The concerns from the village council will be shared with the committee by Lisa Munn.

North Lake Provincial Park reopening P.R.O. Kids Funding Plans call for day-use of beach in June, campground available in July

By Judy Cole-Underhill amenities at the beach

T

his year, North Lake Provincial Park is expected to be open to the public.

Coreen Enos, a spokesperson for the provincial Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture, said Friday, APril 8, that plans are in the works to have the North Lake beach and campground open to visitors this coming summer.

“It is anticipated to have the North Lake beach area open for day use on June 4,” Enos said.

“The department is working towards having the campground open to welcoming guests by the long weekend in July.”

North Lake Provincial Park will offer day-use

and a 56-site campground. Six sites have electrical (15amp), and the remainder of the sites are unserviced.

She said that campers could book sites online through the NB Parks Reservation site.

Fresh sand is being prepared to replenish the beach area. However, there are no current plans to install water and sewer at the park.

Last year, the province delayed the park’s opening due to the relocation of Partners for Youth, a non-profit organization that provides adventurebased camping for youth at risk from around New Brunswick.

The relocation included the building of a large access road to the new

campsite farther down the lakeshore.

The North Lake Park closed more than a decade ago after the Local Service District (LSD) agreed with a recommendation from the province to close it because of community concerns about poor park management, safety and noise at the beach.

The provincial government followed through with the closure after some discussion with members of the community and one public meeting as far back as 1998.

After the closure, the North Lake Park fell into disrepair, with the abandoned beach growing over in grass and weeds.

At one time, the park employed summer staff and drew large crowds to

the beach on weekends.

Partners for Youth used only the campground under a crown land lease agreement signed in 2006.

In 2021, the province informed the Western Valley Regional Service Commission that the North Lake Park would open on the Victoria Day weekend in May as a day-use public beach and picnic park. But the opening never happened.

Local residents said the provincial government told them it intended to restore the North Lake beach area to its former glory with increased security.

The residents expected any project delays to be temporary once a new budget came forward.

Application Information Deadline: First come, first served Ages: Up to age 18 Total Amount: Up to $300 per calendar year

Funding Caps: Ages: 0 – 3 $50 per activity ($100 & under) Ages: 4 – 6 $100 per activity ($300 & under) Ages: 7 – 18 $300 per activity

Guidelines: Funding for a recreation, sport or cultural program and who are not currently participating in other paid recreation programs. It is not intended to supplement participation in more than one activity at a time. Application(s) cannot be receiving funding from any other organization.

Application: Step 1: Apply “online- only” to PRO Kids wvra.ca Step 2: On the Top Bar go to the PRO Kids Tab Step 3: Click on the tab and click “About.” This will bring up the guidelines for the application process. Follow the instructions. Step 4: Once guidelines are ready you can click on the bottom of this page “Click Here to Apply” or go back up to the P.R.O. Kids tab and click “Application.”

22

ARTFELT

Arts and Culture News from Western New Brunswick

In praise of the spectrum

ARTiculate

I

By Victoria Hutt

came upon a post the other day where someone asked what the difference is between fine art and illustration. I settled in to enjoy what I knew would be a heated debate between the puritans - who would argue fine art is about expression; that illustration is commercial, lacking depth or meaning - and those opposing, who would

argue the line is imaginary.

It did not disappoint.

While I was growing up, art lived most vibrantly for me in stories, illustration, and animation. Princess culture aside, I loved how Cinderella made clothes for her little mice, the humanness in Aurora’s fairy aunties, and I saw myself in Belle – a book-loving daydreamer who is very good at seeing the misunderstood underdog in the beast.

My colleagues at the Canadian Crafts Federation recently released a position paper titled The Craft Spectrum. The paper tackles “What is Craft?” in a new way, recognizing the complexity, diversity and continual evolution of craft

alongside humanity and society. “By developing a spectrum of craft, rather than a rigid definition, space is created to find your place in craft, rather than a set mould you must adapt to.”

Animated movies still move me. I couldn’t imagine how Frozen II was created pre-pandemic; suddenly separated from your loved ones, learning to just focus on taking what feels like the right next step. Its core story, seeing beyond history as written by the victors, is important and timely. Trolls: World Tour is a beautiful story of fighting for diversity. One group tells their history of fleeing due to colonization and oppression. Later, another group

unplugs their spaceship, so they can’t fight back. They literally take their power away. There are also misguided bounty hunters driven by fear - hunting down other cultures in an attempt to save their own. This is underscored by the theme of many parties being wrong, each skewed by the disparate records of history passed down to them. The lines between villains and heroes are increasingly unclear. In stories past, an ice queen would be portrayed as a villain. But in Frozen, you see Elsa struggles with anxiety from the trauma of her misunderstood difference (in actuality, a gift), pushing people away so they don’t get hurt. Encanto has no villain (like

in Brave), only toxic family patterns born from the best intentions.

Animation is full of expressive and deeply meaningful works of art, wrapped up in highly commercial production illustration. Yet just this month, we watched numerous presenters at the Oscars dismiss animation as a lower form of art.

In ‘Sapiens,’ author Yuval Harari reminds us that our notions of hierarchy are just mythical beliefs humans have constructed as power structures.

“What is art?” may always be debated. There is hope that rigid definitions will ease as the many spectrums in our world are increasingly recognized, and celebrating that neatly

©Disney organized and separate boxes for all to be divided into is rarely the case.

Victoria Hutt is a Project Coordinator for the Canadian Crafts Federation, mom of four, and practicing artist in Florenceville-Bristol.

Victoria is a NSCAD design graduate and sits on the ArtsNB Board.

Grease hits the stage at McCain Community Theatre

WHS brings hit musical to life during first performance since COVID began

By Sandra Hanson

M

ichelle Nowlan is no stranger to the theatre world. She has been involved in drama productions every year since 1990, except for 2020 and 2021, which were lost to COVID-19. This year, she is the proud director of the Woodstock High School musical Grease, which will be the first performance at the McCain Community Theatre since the pandemic struck.

“Grease was actually the first show I was ever involved in,” shared Nowlan. “I played the Teen Angel and was involved in the

chorus as well.”

Nowlan is happy to be back at it, along with the eager cast of 31 students.

“We have such a great group of students this year, and we’re having so much fun,” she said. “Drama is such a great outlet for youth, and it really helps to relieve stress.”

Nowlan felt the students could benefit after two rough years.

“We just tell the kids all that matters is that they do their best. We just wanted this to be a safe space for the students, where they could have adults around who care about them and take care of them, and

where they can have fun,” she said.

In speaking to some of the cast members, it’s clear Nowlan’s message was hitting the mark.

Micah Martin, who plays Danny, said that he had been involved in drama for as long as he can remember.

“I started with Michelle’s drama camps and did them every year,” he said. “I love being on stage, as well as singing. It’s such a great feeling.”

In contrast, this is the first year of drama for Elisa Von Keutz, who plays Sandy.

When asked what drew

her to drama, she explained that she has always loved singing like her fellow cast member.

“I just felt like this would be a really great, creative way to express that,” she said.

Maggie Jones, who plays the talented dancer Cha Cha, also has a history of being involved in dramatic productions.

“I don’t do sports — just theatre. I love acting, and I love to sing!” said Jones.

What’s her favourite part of Grease?

“Despite how demanding it is, I love the hand jive,” Jones responded. “It’s a blast to do! Also, the songs

The Grease cast rehearses. (Sandra Hanson photo)

sound amazing – we have a full pit band this year.”

Grease will run for four nights, May 4 to 7, with Michelle Nowlan as director, Melissa Richardson as creative director, Caroline Fletcher-Allison and Niki

Carpenter as choreographers, and Will Davidson as music director.

Tickets are $10 each and are available at Home Zone Electronics in Woodstock, and are selling fast.

Tobique-Mactaquac MP/ Député

Richard Bragdon 1-800 -671-6160 richard.bragdon@parl.gc.ca

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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 23

Canadian Council for the Arts recognizes local artists

J. Ivanel Johnson and Cameron Slipp co-writers of “Rough Notes’

By Karen Palmer

L

ocal author J. Ivanel Johnson from New Denmark and Woodstock native Cameron Slipp have co-written a musical entitled Rough Notes, which has garnished recognition and a substantial award from the Canada Council for the Arts.

Set in the Upper River Valley, namely Perth-Andover and ScotchColony, the musical tells the story of three diverse Canadian couples at different stages of life on the eve of the Second World War. The Scottish, French, and First Nation rural peoples of New Brunswick are thrust into the drama of warI, dealing with Royals, a spy, and an undercover female journalist.

Recognized by the Canadian Council for the Arts, the musical has been awarded $20,000 to hold

a professional Equity-Actor two-night presentation in Florenceville in the fall.

“This is huge for the Upper River Valley art lovers,” said Johnson. “This will be a workshop version, of course, with everyone performing on stools behind music stands. There will be a few auditions for some locals to be in the chorus, some contests for back-stage meet-the-cast moments, etc. We will not be selling tickets, but donations will be accepted for the local libraries, as that is connected to the theme of the show.”

Slipp, born and raised in Woodstock but now resides in Waterloo, Ontario, is the musical arranger for the play.

“He wrote 16 original songs which include the era’s swing-style with fastpaced, upbeat dance numbers, several soaring ballads in three-part harmony,

a bittersweet lullaby, and two heart-wrenching love duets,” stated McKencroft Productions online.

Johnson is especially proud of the musical as it sheds light on issues still relevant in New Brunswick and Canada today. The loss of the arts in our communities and schools, the plight of suffrages and feminists, and the disappearing Canadian wilderness are all illuminated throughout the play’s plot.

“Traditional yet with fresh features, Rough Notes is a historically Canadian musical with rurals juxtaposed with royals, melding a mosaic of music about life, love, and literary pursuits whirling in on the winds of WWII,” states McKencroft Productions online. “Rough Notes recognizes many of Canada’s diverse and exceptional figures; in fact, it does this first-and-foremost, even

above a storyline/plot.

“Not only does the musical present comedic but heroic characters that represent the First Nations, Scottish, and French rural peoples, but there are appearances by strong feminists such as Margaret MacAlpine, daughter of Tilly Winslow, the first woman of colour to graduate UNB and who went on to teach many, and Genevieve Lipsett who was the first female journalist to be allowed into Ottawa’s Press Gallery.”

The musical also has ties to the Woodstock area through its characters.

“There is a specific tie-in with Woodstock.

Matilda Winslow (Tilly from Woodstock) was an amazing real-life woman, the first black female to graduate UNB, and who then went on to teach in Halifax and then to head up a private girls’ school in Alabama,

Co-writers of ‘Rough Notes’ are Cameron Slipp (left) and J. Ivanel Johnson. (Submitted photos)

said Johnson. “From her daughter Margaret, we hear a bit about Tilly and her achievements in the first scene of Rough Notes,” shares Johnson. “I have been in touch with the MacAlpine family — prominent lawyers, politicians, activists, and NASA employees — to tell them about Rough Notes and their two ancestors’ celebration within it.

These people I contacted are grandchildren of Tilly, so the direct line of this astounding family of brainiacs

and do-gooders begins in Woodstock, N.B. They are spreading good through the whole world of America right now, just as Tilly’ set them right’ and helped educate them down in Alabama a century ago.”

Further information about the public presentation of the musical will be available closer to the fall.

For now, Johnson is relishing the recognition and enjoying the success of yet another one of her literary works of art.

Perth Elks to celebrate 70 years

Facing past challenges and prevailing to reach milestone

By Wes McLean

G

enerations of community spirit, service and friendship will be celebrated when the Perth Elks Lodge hosts its 70th Anniversary this July.

Planning is underway to mark this occasion. Elks members decided to hold an outdoor celebration, weather permitting, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Lodge property on Saturday, July 9.

The celebration is open

to everyone. In addition to formal remarks, the event will include a community barbecue, music and children’s activities. There will also be a membership booth on-site, as part of the anniversary theme of “celebrating our past, charting our future.”

Current Lodge Exalted Ruler Jonny Gagnon said he was “excited to be a part of our 70th anniversary of our Charter of BPOE #362, started by a few humble men back in 1952, and

which has grown to include sisters that we cherish and thank for their contribution to the order.”

Gagnon reflected on the past seven decades.

“We have faced many challenges over the years, and in my short time time affiliated with the Lodge, from flooding to roof leaks and COVID. We prevail, and will continue to place our charities above ourselves.”

This year also represents the 110th anniversary of the Elks of Canada. Since

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1912, the Elks of Canada have given countless volunteer hours to promoting and serving community needs across Canada.

With over 250 Lodges and 10,000 members, the Elks are ready to continue growing into the future and helping wherever needed.

“We love our family and community and will forge ahead with the many endeavours from bursaries and donations and it is all because of the community that supports us.”

The Perth Elks will celebrate its 70th anniversary. Members of the 2020-21 execute include, front row, from left, Ron Gaunce (Esquire), Alta Street (Loyal Knight), Ron Dube (Immediate Past ER), Jonny Gagnon (Exalted Ruler), Sharon Gaunce (Leading Knight), Vicki Broad (Lecturing Knight).

Back row. Paul Kinney (Inner Guard), Caroline Baird and Janet Gee (Membership Directors), Nicki Plant (Secretary), Diana Perley (Chaplain), Gary Grant (Treasurer). (Submitted photo)

24

New Denmark author signs book deal

‘Just a Still Life’ marks completion of book started by author’s late grandmother in 1947

By Karen Palmer

A

New Denmark author and playwright has signed a book deal with Texas publisher Black Rose for a murder-mystery novel scheduled for release in September 2022.

J. Ivanel Johnson (pen name) spent the last two decades completing the novel ‘Just a Still Life’ that her grandmother began writing just after the war.

Dismissed at the time by publishers, it was her grandmother’s wish that Johnson not only write and publish her own books but complete and publish the book she began.

“My grandmother began this particular novel in 1947, but because she sent the manuscript to a publisher and was told to write in more ‘boudoir’ scenes, which she did not want to

do, she only ever wrote for herself after that time,” said Johnson. “When she died in 1992, I promised I would keep working on it until I found a publisher, so I began doing this in mid1992, put it away until the 2000s, worked a bit on it again in that decade, then really started in earnest on it in 2020.”

Set in 1971 in a fictional village south-east of Woodstock called Victoria, the murder mystery includes characters based on real-life fallen police officers Constable Sara Burns and Constable Robb Costello. Both perished in the 2018 Fredericton shootings.

“It upset me terribly that in such a small city in our province, there could have been these senseless killings. I wanted to offer something that would

help keep Sarah Burns and Robb Costello’s names alive,” she said.

Johnson also wanted to continue to use her grandmother’s original character development for the novel.

“Back then, all her characters were white, of course, and it was set in the 1940s in our small village near London, Ontario. But now the novel is rich with culturally-diverse New Brunswick folk, instead,” she said. “There’s a Wolastoq girl who works in the post office and a North Shoreman who adds a lot of French phrases and humour ... and one of the main characters is a young black detective originally from Halifax.

Although some characters and settings in the novel will be familiar to New Brunswickers, the story itself is fiction.

Johnson said the only true-life sections in the novel mention the forming of Nackawic, issues surrounding the building of the dam and mill, plus mentions of Woodstock and Crabbe Mountain.

Plus, she said, it makes the Fredericton connection to the fictional police force of 1971.

“My hope is that readers of Just a Still Life will enjoy the setting, 1971 rural New Brunswick, as well as the two protagonists, the discontented Detective Inspector Philip Steele, new to the Fredericton branch, and his elderly godmother who runs the village post office and can hear all kinds of helpful gossip while her neighbours are being picked off one by one.”

Just a Still Life will be out September 22, 2022, in

Author J. Ivanel Johnson. (Submitted photo)

paperback and kindle.

Johnson said the paperback will be available from her publisher’s website amd Amazon.

Johnson will have some

books on hand to personally sell, and hopes to have books available in local shops. She’ll be organizing local readings after the release.

Movin’ On Up! Raise those beds (and save your back)!

WEEDS, SEEDS & GARDEN DEEDS

By Michelle Corcoran

D

ays are getting longer and warmer, and gardeners are itching to get back in the soil. Raised beds have been popular and definitely benefit in smaller spaces — less back strains and weeds.

Here are a few tips for successful growing in raised beds.

Raised Bed Tips: Pick a good spot, be mindful of hours of sun and shade (once you set up, it’ll be hard to move!) Depending on the plants/veggies you want to grow, more or less sun.

Metal, plastic, or wood (use heat-treated or brown treated, not green pressure treated).

Add a thick moulding edge on top to sit on for comfort. Put small wood braces under moulding for

support (see picture).

If you are using wood, use non-rusting screws to hold together, nails separate from the pressure of soil in your bed.

Soil – compost, garden soil, at least 8-12 inches deep. To calculate the amount of soil you need: measure (inches) bed length x width x height = cubic feet of soil.

No need to dig up the lawn. Put your raised bed right on top. The soil will kill the grass.

If elevated or using a bed raised 3-4 feet off the ground, you may need to water more often during hot spells.

Not too wide – you need to reach the middle.

Space 3-4 feet in between beds for room to work on beds.

Mulch (straw, bark, stone) between the beds to prevent weeds.

You can even make cold frames or raised hoop covers for raised beds when the temperature turns colder to extend the garden season.

What to plant?

Anything you’d plant in your veggie or flower gar-

den. Space and crop rotate appropriately.

Disinfect your garden.

Yes, you still need to clean up your garden in April/May. Disinfect pots, tools, bird feeders, birdbaths (rinse well). Sharpen and disinfect cutting tools.

Cleaning solution: 2 Tbsp bleach to 1 gallon water.

Throw out any old garden gloves that can’t be washed.

Disinfect pots, tools, bird feeders, birdbaths (rinse well). Sharpen and disinfect cutting tools.

Cleaning solution: 2 Tbsp bleach to 1 gallon water.

Throw out any old garden gloves that can’t be washed.

Clean out garden debris, dead growth, your flower beds and gardens!

Don’t be tempted to compost remnants, especially if plants are diseased (fungus, blight or mildew) or infected with pests.

Protect our pollinators!

Hibernating butterflies, bees and insects rent out space in plant stems or under debris. Wait until temperatures are consistently above 10°C at night before cleaning out debris.

(Submitted photo)

It’s time to plant indoors for your outdoor crop (anything that says start indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost).

Tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, cabbages, broccoli, cauliflower’Annual flowers, herbs SAVE THE DATE

Florenceville-Bristol Garden Club ANNUAL PLANT AUCTION. Monday, June 6 (rain/ heat date June 13), 6 to 8 p.m. at the Florenceville-Bristol Gazebo. Spring dividing and clean-out can create extras to share. Bring annuals, perennials (well la-

belled), and garden art for auction. Funds raised go towards community garden projects.

Michelle Corcoran is a home gardener and an active member of the Florenceville-Bristol Garden Club.

50/50

Support the Meduxnekeag Valley Nature Preserve by playing our online weekly 50/50 lottery. It’s easy to play! Just go to:

MRA.goplay5050.com

The cost is $2 per ticket. Pay weekly or buy up to 52 weeks in advance. Draws take place every Sunday night at midnight.

GOOD LUCK!

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!

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 25

RVS SUNSHINE KIDS

SUNSHINE SMILES: (LEFT) Meet two-year-old Trevor Clark.

Trevor is the son of Jessica Chapman and Timothy Clark. He loves playing with his big sisters Sophia and Lyla, and his baby brother Bennett. He would love to be a member of the Paw Patrol when he grows up. (RIGHT) Meet Trevor’s one-year-old brother Bennett Clark. His favourite thing to do is haning out with Mom and Dad and watching his siblings play. (Submitted photos) 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.

ageless

New Brunswick Celebrating 10 Years of Inspiring Stories

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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 27

McCain Foods steps up in support of Ukraine

Florenceville-Bristol’s global giant cuts business ties with Russia RIVER VALLEY SUN

S

ince the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, FlorencevilleBristol-based McCain Foods stepped forward with steps to support the Ukrainian people.

“The Russian invasion of Ukraine has been deeply concerning to all of us at McCain Foods.,” corporate officials explained in a published March 10 update. “Our thoughts continue to be with those affected by this crisis, and we have done everything in our power to put the health and safety of our employees at the centre of our response.”

McCain Canada moved quickly following the Ukraine invasion to reduce its business ties with Russia.

On Feb. 24, McCain Foods announced it stopped construction at its Russian production facility in the Tula Oblast region.

The company later announced it decided to discontinue the project entirely. In addition, McCain suspended all shipments of its products into the Russian market.

McCain Foods announced a $200,000 donation to the Red Cross Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal to contribute to

the ongoing global relief efforts.

“We are always guided in these decisions by the ethics and perspective of being a family-owned business from New Brunswick, Canada,” McCain Foods officials stated in the March 10 release. “As the global market leader in prepared French fries and specialty potato products, McCain Foods takes our leadership role seriously across the 160 countries that we operate in.”

To donate to the Canadian Red Cross in support of the Ukraine Humanitarian Crisis Appeal, please visit donate.redcross.ca.

McCain Foods, Florenceville-Bristol, N.B. (File photo)

NBCC Trades Week success

College says data indicates 3,100 potential trades jobs opening in N.B. over three years RIVER VALLEY SUN

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world of career possibilities opened up for participants in NBCC’s Trades Week, held March 14-18.

More than 70 prospective students participated in webinars and campus tours as they explored all that the trades have to offer.

“There’s never been a better time to study a trade,” said Kirby Rushton, Dean of Trades and Apprenticeship at NBCC, in a press release following the event. “The trades are experiencing a big boom, and as tradespeople retire, there are going

to be thousands of job openings for those who have the right training and skill sets.”

The NBCC release explained that data from NBjobs.ca indicates 3,100 expected job vacancies in the trades over the next three years, with welding, electrical, carpentry, industrial mechanics, automotive service, and heavy equipment operation among the most indemand.

Throughout Trades Week, New Brunswickers and newcomers alike had the opportunity to learn more about these and

other trades on offer at NBCC. Rushton, along with NBCC alumna Tara McNeill, hosted a webinar to share the value of an education in the skilled trades with prospective learners.

McNeill, who studied Automotive Service Technician at NBCC, is a fierce advocate of women in the skilled trades and a true champion of inclusivity.

Anyone interested in more information about the skilled trades can contact a Recruitment Advisor to set up an appointment or email collegeworks@nbcc.ca.

(File photo)

From vehicle sales to service, whether you’re purchasing new or certified pre-owned, we want you to be satisfied with every aspect of our sales and services, providing you with the best in vehicles and the parts options to keep your vehicle on the road!

Visit our showroom at 323 Connell Street, Woodstock. Visit us online at www.connellchryslerdealer.com or follow us on Facebook! (506) 328-9243

28

CONNECTION

Sharing Stories of Inclusion, Diversity, and Community

Here we go!

RIVERSIDE RAMBLINGS

By Carolyn Brown

M

acLeod Riverside Court has been a buzz of activity during March.

We celebrated eight birthdays, got the Gardening Club rolling again with lots of new members this year, celebrated St. Patrick’s Day, had pyjama day, hat day, tie day, crazy hair day, casual day and are thrilled to be able to unlock our doors and say “welcome world” at last.

After so long, it is so nice to welcome back the ladies from the Quilt Guild, musicians and church members and pastors.

It seems to have been such a long stretch for some of us we have forgotten what normal actually feels like, but recovery

will be quick.

We recognize we have enhanced some sanitizing and in-house procedures through all of this that we will continue to use to keep everyone well and safe. We have no question the public will be fully respectful going forward.

These residents inspire me in so many ways, but it is especially evident when I have a new resident moving in. They have all worn those shoes in coming to a new home, often more because of need and safety and health concerns versus actually wanting to leave their home.

Because of that, they roll out a welcoming mat that is second to none because they know the feeling and have personally experienced it.

They never fail to make a new resident feel welcome and help them be engaged in activities as they feel comfortable doing so. All this to say, it makes my job a lot easier!

So I say thank you to each and every one!

We’ve likely all said the words “I’ll settle for

that,” or “I’ll scale back some,” or maybe even, “ok, I give up.” Speaking of course only for myself, I plead guilty to all three.

But then I ask, who wants to just settle? Scale back, well, maybe some, but we wouldn’t want to miss anything, so we have to be pretty selective on that one. And how do we grow and experience life if we give up? We may think about giving up, but we can also think about finding a different way of doing something rather than just giving up.

If you want to continue to age without growing old, throw out settling, scaling back and giving up and make life a journey of your making and full of your choices, not someone else’s. Furthermore, always believe in second chances. I’ve been blessed with many! Life at MacLeod Riverside Court can be an amazing second chance!

Carolyn Brown is in charge of Community Relations at MacLeod Riverside Court Retirement Residence.

Riverside residents share the style on Hat Day. (Carolyn Brown photo)

Looking for your favourite columnist?

We’re rotating our wonderful contributors, so each will appear every other month!

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 29

SPORTS

Highlights and Features of Local Sports and Sporting Events

Medals, records keep rolling in for Carleton senior athlete

Belyea returns from Canadian Masters with four records, three medals

By Sandra Hanson

R

oss Belyea is no stranger to success.

The Carleton County native currently holds 21 provincial track and field records, three Canadian Masters track and field records, plus he is one of four team members holding the Canadian Masters record for the 200m Relay.

The senior superstar earned four of those records on March 26 and 27 in Saint John at the 11th Canadian Masters Indoor Track & Field Championships. Belyea also took home three gold medals for the long jump, triple jump, and 60m dash events.

When asked what got him started in track and field, Ross chuckled and said, “I wasn’t a basketball player.”

While track and field wasn’t a popular sport growing up, he said, there

were meets around for him to give it a try in middle school.

Belyea credits his success in the sport to his genetics.

“My mother was a fast runner, and my Dad was an athlete. I got my speed from my mother and my athleticism from my Dad.” Belyea continued track and field through high school. However, in college, he focused more on softball. Then turned to hockey during his teaching career. Belyea also enjoyed downhill skiing.

When he retired from teaching, he returned to track and field, at which point he started competing provincially.

Belyea said he first competed at the Canadian Masters in 2017. He left Toronto that year with three gold medals and five new records — two provincial and three meet records for 50m dash, long jump, triple

jump, and 200m Relay.

Belyea said he has competed at some level every year since 2013, with only a few interruptions. In October 2014, he developed a hernia during training, forcing him to miss the 2014 indoor season and the following 2015 outdoor season as he recovered from surgery.

COVID-19 cancelled the 2020 and 2021 seasons.

However, he didn’t let the pandemic stop him from training. If anything, he trained even harder.

“I knew that during the pandemic, training would take a backseat for some athletes, but not me. I just have that dedication and drive within me.”

Belyea’s regular training sees him spending three mornings a week at the AYR Motor Centre from late fall through early spring. When COVID-19 restrictions closed the facil-

ity, he moved his training to the basement of his home, where he used personal training equipment, including an elliptical.

Once weather permits, he trains outdoors at the old Bull’s Creek Irving site, where he has several different courses marked.

Belyea explained that stretching is an essential aspect of his training, no matter where his sessions occur. Approximately 30 minutes of his 75-minute training sessions are dedicated just to stretching.

Belyea uses several different pieces of equipment in his training, including an ingenious idea he got from his grandson, Joel.

Inspired by his hockey training, Joel encouraged his grandfather to use a simple rope ladder to practice various jumping patterns, and his sprint starts.

“It’s important to be able to get out of the blocks as quickly as you can,” said

Ross Belyea displays his medals and framed copies of a couple of records he holds. (Sandra Hanson photo)

Belyea, who ended up constructing the ladder himself from materials he found at the Dollar Store.

While Belyea does not have a formal training coach, two coaches have helped him over the years – Peter Stewart from Moncton and Carl Cummings from Freder-

icton, the Jump Coach at UNB. Their help and the support of his family, friends, and community, which Belyea profoundly appreciates, have certainly helped get him to where he is today – a record-breaking athlete with no plans to slow down anytime soon.

Grafton hoop star named AUS Rookie of the Year

Norman Burry shines in first year with UNB Reds

By Matthew Flemming

N

orman Burry of Grafton was widely considered the best high school basketball player in New Brunswick, coming out of his graduating class in 2020. He quickly validated that opinion when he was named the AUS 2022 Men’s Basketball Rookie of the Year as a member of the University of New Brunswick Reds.

Burry, who transferred from Woodstock High to Fredericton High following his sophomore year, has been a consistent member on the New Brunswick Provincial Team circuit.

During his final provincial season, he led the Province of New Brunswick to a National Bronze Medal, and he was named first-team All-Canadian.

First-year UNB head coach Joe Salerno said the rookie forward demonstrates an unmatched work ethic.

“He can basically do anything on the floor,” said Salerno. “He just goes about his business without distraction. He has this New Brunswick toughness about him. He was a rookie who played like a veteran.”

Salerno, who has coached professionally overseas, said Burry’s performance didn’t surprise him. He said he had been excited about the prospect of coaching Burry, even before they had met.

“He’s definitely a potential all-star or Player of the Year. Maybe even an AllCanadian in the future.”

The 6’4” forward ended the season with a 49 per cent three-point percent-

age. In 26.5 minutes per game, Burry averaged 12.7 points per game and 4.5 rebounds.

Burry said winning the Rookie of the Year award was a goal going into the season, but he is already looking forward to the next goal.

“The goal is a championship,” he said. “I’m just going to work on getting bigger and stronger and more prepared.”

Burry said there was a definite transition in gameplay from high school to the university level, but his years of experience playing summer basketball helped prepare him.

“At the university level, there’s a huge difference,” said Burry. “Everyone is bigger and stronger. There is a much higher basketball IQ level.”

He said he was blessed to have several experienced teammates from which to learn.

He noted the last time UNB won a league championship was in 2016, and it’s the ultimate goal for him.

Basketball isn’t the primary focus for Burry. Salerno praised the young star’s academic achievements, on top of his dedication to the sport.

Burry is majoring in biochemistry, with an eye on med school someday.

“I think it’s his dedication to academics that sets him apart,” said Salerno.

“Many young athletes can become distracted, but Norm has consistent focus.”

The 2021-22 UNB Reds finished the season with a 7-8 record in the Atlantic University Sport league.

Norman Burry is the AUS 2022 Men’s Basketball Rookie of the Year. (UNB Athletics/James West photo)

Salerno said the pandemic had unwanted effects on the team’s season and its desired gameplay consistency. There were several teams in the league with similar records.

Both Burry and Salerno anticipate a strong follow-

up season. While UNB will lose several seniors, it has a group of solid recruits coming in.

Salerno said he anticipates Burry to continue to lead the way in the next season and for the rest of his UNB career.

Wondering what Pilates is? This client sums it up nicely: “I woke up this morning feeling better than I have in ages! Really enjoyed the class and am looking forward to next week.”

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30

Panthers capture Junior C title in dramatic fashion Double-overtime winner wrestles banner from three-time defending champs

By Matthew Flemming

T

he Western Valley Panthers captured the NBJHL Junior C 2022 Championship in a doubleovertime victory over the top-seeded Tri-County River Cats. The banner was awarded Thursday, April 7, at the AYR Motor Centre.

Liam Crawford scored the game-winning goal over the three-time defending league champs. Bentley Shaw scored twice, including the late goal with 25 seconds left, to put the game into overtime. Cole Lawrence also connected for two goals, while Zach Graham and Carter Cahill added solos.

“The entire series was a hard-fought,” said firstyear head coach Brook Dickinson. “It was a fun game for a fan but was certainly nerve-wracking as a coach.”

Dickinson, who has been a member of the coaching staff for several seasons, is joined on the bench by assistant coaches Mike Weeks and Brian Cheney.

“Right from the beginning of tryouts, we knew we were going to be very competitive,” said Dickinson. “I feel this is the deepest team we have ever fielded since the Panthers joined the league in 2011.”

Coach Dickinson said the season was up and down, but they were nothing but optimistic and confident heading into the playoffs.

The Panthers, which primarily fields players from between Perth-Andover and Nackawic, had the opportunity to play two hardfought, best-of-five playoff series. Their first opponent was the third-place Southern Sting before matching up with the Fredericton Junction area-based defending champs.

Western Valley finished the season with a 10-7-2 record for second place in the NBJHL Maritime Division.

It took all five games to move on from the first round against the Sting.

Dickinson described it as

constantly back and forth.

A single goal decided every game.

Moving into the finals against Tri-County was familiar territory, with the championship series ending in a three-game sweep.

After three consecutive years of losses to the TriCounty River Cats, Dickinson described the win as exceptionally rewarding.

The Panther needed a massive comeback effort to force overtime. The Panthers were down two goals going into the final period, and it took an extra skater, with the goalie on the bench, to make it happen.

“When we scored that goal with 25 seconds left in regulation, everything changed,” said Dickinson.

“Both overtimes were intense.”

He said he couldn’t be happier for the players.

Their hard work, discipline and dedication were worthy of championship honours.

The head coach also noted the strong commit-

(Submitted photo)

ment of the players during the pandemic-era season, all of whom have busy lives but who spent the weekends dedicated to playing hockey.

As League champions, the Panthers will participate in the Nova Scotia Maritime North Champion-

ship at the end of April.

The Maritime title run gives the Panthers’ four overagers on the team — Connor McLean, Ethan Brewer, Eric Casey and Ben Pearson — a shot at the final Junior medal.

Dickinson noted the tremendous local support and

was encouraged by the fan turnout during the playoff games.

He also expressed his appreciation for the constant behind-the-scenes work by President and General Manager Bonnie Cheney, and Assistant Manager Paula Zegras.

Challenge met... and surpassed

Pair of sledders travel 1,000 miles in less than 24 hours while raising raising more than $76,000 for campers The second annual 1,000 Mile Challenge saw Rudi Fowler and Sam Charters conquer the trails on March 10 and 11 while raising $76,250 through donations and sponsorships.

The funds raised will be divided amoungst five local camps: Green Hill Lake Camp, Shiktehawk Bible Camp, Camp Tulakadik, Camp Wildwood, and Snider Mountain Ranch. The donations will sponsor families to send their kids off to summer camp.

Read Devon Judge’s complete story on the River Valley Sun Facebook page!

Before departing, Sam Charters, left, and Rudi Fowler pose in front of the chase helicopter. (Ben Cummings photo)

How Car Buying Should Be.

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Vehicle Advisor

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 31

Murray’s Irving players pay tribute to Matthew Tweedie

Friends and former teammates include ‘Tweed’ in championship celebration

RIVER VALLEY SUN

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ormer teammate, the late Matthew Tweedie, was in the hearts and minds of Murray’s Irving skaters as they captured the 2022 Carleton County Gentlemen’s Hockey League title Monday, March 14, in Hartland.

As the team posed for the championship photo,

Tweedie’s sweater held a place of honour next to the trophy. Murray’s Irving teammates paid tribute to the 31-yearold Greenfield man who was a team member for seven years.

Tweedie died in a snowmobile accident on Jan. 31, leaving behind his wife Briana, daughter Brielle and daughter

Brinlee Mattie Tweedie, who was born after his death, on April 3.

Murray’s Irving downed the Connell Chrysler Chargers 7-3 to sweep the best-of-three final in two games. They won the opener 8-6.

Murray’s Irving team members included Brandon Parsons, Brad Dickinson, Alex Petley,

Mason Foster, Jared Demerchant, Matthew Stairs, Joshua Mcdougald, Brandon Mcdougald, Andrew Nesbitt, Sam Walton, Ryan Chase, Trent Brown, Matt Tomah, Carson Taylor, Martin Speer, MacKenzie Ball and Colton Stairs. Matthew’s father, Paul Tweedie, coached the team.

Speaking of Sports

Capturing another title: ‘He’ll always be ‘Coach Daye’

David Daye adds to his accomplishments, celebrating a half century of coaching

By Andrew McCormick

O

n March 17, Woodstock basketball coach and teacher Scott Jones tweeted the following: “Congratulations to our Woodstock High School Junior Varsity girls basketball team and coaches on winning a provincial title… but this has to be said: It was 50 years ago that David Daye won his first high school provincial championship as a coach…and he even threw his clipboard tonight. Magical career…and it’s not over.”

David Daye began coaching at 19 in Southampton, fresh out of Teacher’s College. This was the mid-’60s. Some quick arithmetic tells me Daye has coached in seven decades, which may sound even more impressive than championship titles 50 years apart. But let’s call it a draw.

What keeps bringing him back to the gym?

“I coach because of the kids,” he said. “They make me want to get back to the gym. I don’t coach to get kids to play pro. I coach kids willing to work hard.

If they’re willing to do the

groundwork, how far they can go is really up to them.

My greatest thrill comes from seeing kids willing to put in the time to get better.”

What’s this about flying clipboards?

“I still have the fiery attitude and the ability to instruct, but physically I’m not the same coach. The kids are patient with me. I can’t demonstrate like I used to, but the kids still respond to the message I give.”

Parkinson’s disease has hindered Daye physically. He admits the past two years have been a challenge due to COVID. But he recognizes that the kids want him on the sidelines on their teams.

“I’m now coaching a third-generation player of one family. I coached her mother and her grandmother. Students I used to coach are now parents and want me to coach their kids.”

What greater compliment could there be as a coach?

There’s a saying, “a coach will impact more young people in a year than the average person does in a lifetime.” Using

this methodology, David Daye of Woodstock has positively impacted hundreds of young people’s lives. Perhaps thousands.

Daye’s accomplishments are on display in the Woodstock Sports Wall of Fame room at AYR Motor Centre in Woodstock. Almost comically, considering his continued longevity, the Sports Wall committee inducted him in 1997.

Beyond Woodstock, Daye instructed at UNB basketball camps in Fredericton for 45 years. After his last camp in 2017, UNB honours Daye annually with an award in his name that sends one player to camp each year at no charge.

Personally, growing up, I first knew “Mr. Daye” as my gym teacher. He was the grown-up in the track pants and tee, best known for coaching basketball.

He delivered his instruction smoothly, and he demanded discipline. If you worked hard, you were gold in his book.

In the summer of ‘83, he reached an elevated status in my book when he became “Coach Daye,” combining with Don McKay to

Photo caption: David Daye and the Woodstock High School Thunder celebrate earning the NBIAA AA Junior Girls provincial title for 2022. Date won his first title as a coach 50 years earlier. (WHS Thunder Facebook photo)

coach the “Carleton Midgets.”

We were a collection of teenage baseball players residing from Nackawic to Hawkes’ store in Bath, playing in the legendary Tobique Valley Baseball League.

I recall it took some time to get used to seeing Coach Daye in a baseball uniform, not in his trademark sweatpants and tee.

I’ve always held my coaches in the highest regard. From Mosquito baseball to senior hockey and

senior baseball, I can rattle off the individual attributes of each. Each impacted me. Greatly.

Although I’m only a tiny blip in the legendary coaching career of David Daye, his impact still resonates with me.

In that summer of ‘83, Coach Daye proved his mettle as a baseball coach.

He showed it was more effective to motivate before being critical.

He praised effort, not results. He’d choose his words carefully with both

players and officials, and he was strategically fiery when he needed to deliver a message.

He was an all-around class act to a 16-year-old me.

He still feels like my coach. He still lives in the same house on Hayden Court, just off of Connell.

He still calls me Cork. To me and many, many others, he’s forever locked in his prime for eternity.

To thousands, he’ll always be “Coach Daye.”

He’s earned that title.

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