River Valley Sun April 2023 Vol 4 Iss 4

RIVER VALLEY SUN

Nursing shortage, lack of care make hospital stay ‘living hell’

Denied the support of her home care workers, Amanda Antworth suffers through a four-month stay at URVH, waiting hours for food, medication, personal care, and urgent procedures

By Theresa Blackburn

Amanda Antworth isn’t one to beat around the bush.

“It was a living hell; absolutely horrible,” she said of her four-month stay at the Upper River Valley Hospital (URVH).

Antworth lives with quadriplegia and has limited mobility in one arm since her ATV accident in the summer of 1999.

While she’s been home from the hospital since April 3, Antworth still struggles with her health and home care support.

On Dec. 9, 2022, Antworth was admitted to the URVH for a recurring bone infection.

“I think it was a few weeks in when I asked about keeping my (home care) workers. I told them some of the problems I was having, but they said because I was getting institutional care, I couldn’t have home care,” said Antworth, “even though, technically, that was my home.”

The 45-year-old Waterville woman began documenting issues on her cell phone and showed her digital diary entries to the River Valley Sun.

There were multiple

personal care delays, medication delays, and sometimes four-hour delays in her being fed. She blames most of her issues on a lack of staff.

“I can’t do much with my hands,” she said. “I have to use a stylus to use my phone, and I can’t do that unless someone puts the strap on me in the morning, and often that didn’t happen until late. I used the phone to control my TV to call friends to stay connected. I was in a room by myself, so I was isolated. Meals were never (eaten) when the food was dropped off. I don’t know how often my food was reheated and left again.”

Antworth said it was often late morning before she was washed and dressed.

“The biggest issue was them (Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses) not following my doctor’s orders,” said Antworth, visibly frustrated.

We contacted Antworth’s attending physician, who, with Antworth’s permission, confirmed some of the problems she experienced.

Her doctor requested a bowel disimpaction, which

aids in emptying the bowel. After multiple requests, the order was not filled by RNs or LPNs. Antworth’s doctor had to perform the procedure twice.

Antworth’s physician confirmed that her bowel was so full she was having leg spasms and once lost consciousness.

“I seriously could have died,” said Antworth. “That can cause the bowel to rupture. I’m still not right,” she said. “My belly is still distended and hard. How can they deny that? And yet, my home care workers could have done this, but they couldn’t come and help me because I’m getting care? Yeah, right.”

Antworth is on disability, which pays her $860 a month. She lives in a home owned by NB Housing and has to use the food bank to get by.

“I am struggling every day,” she said. “I struggle with home care; I struggle with having enough money to pay my bills. I have to use the foodbank, and then I have to struggle while I’m in the hospital, too.”

To add insult to injury, while Antworth was in the URVH, her accessible van was stolen and destroyed.

“I bought that with the $10,000 I got after my mother died, and $10,000 my friends and the community raised through fundraisers,” she said. “Now I don’t have transportation, and because the home care workers weren’t allowed to care for me when I was in the hospital, they had to look for work elsewhere, so now I’m home without care. My daughter had to leave school in Fredericton to come and help me. I’m still trying to find home care workers. She’s overwhelmed, and my friends have stepped in to help. Everything is such a mess,” she said.

Smiling through the pain: Amanda Antworth of Wakefield lives with quadriplegia. She said her recent stay at the URVH was a ‘living hell’ because of a lack of care, which she blames on the nursing shortage and the Department of Social Development denying her and her doctor’s requests to allow home care workers provide in-hospital support.

(Theresa Blackburn photo)

CARE

Continued from page 1

Antworth reached out to Carleton MLA Bill Hogan while she was in the hospital, hoping he would advocate on her behalf. She said he told her he had directed staff to help her with whatever she needed, but she never heard back from them after their initial call.

“I think they dropped the ball,” she said. “Bill has helped me before, and I know he cares. He told his staff to reach out, and they got information from me, but then nothing.”

The attending doctor also spoke to Antworth’s social worker, advocating for her to receive home care during her hospital stay, but the request “went nowhere.”

One of Antworth’s home care workers, Shelly Etherington, is also a lifelong friend.

“I contacted the supervisor of Amanda‘s long-term disability social worker,” said Etherington. “I begged her to continue Amanda‘s case plan so she could have her home care workers at the hospital with her after Amanda almost choked to death on a drink of water.”

When the River Valley Sun contacted the Department of Social Development for comment, department spokesperson Rebecca Howland sent a statement.

“The Department of Social Development and the Minister have strict obligations to abide by confidentiality legislation and therefore cannot speak about specific situations,” the statement reads.

“It is the policy of the Disability Support Program that when an individual is away from their home environment for something like a hospitalization where they are receiving care in a designated health facility, services are paused and are restarted when the individual returns home. The discharge to community typically is accompanied by an updated plan given the individual’s needs may have increased or changed since their admission,” Howland shared.

“Social Development does not provide hospitalbased care or provide services in a health care setting. Services are specific to supporting an individual in the community. While an individual is in a hospital, the hospital would provide care according to the individual’s needs. As the hospital begins to consider discharge to the community, Social Development would reassess the individual’s needs to ensure that the supports that were in place prior to admission were going to continue to meet the needs of the individual. If that is not the case, the support plan is adjusted prior to the individual returning home.”

The River Valley Sun contacted a nurse manager to ask why an RN or LPN would not follow an attending physician’s request. We were told it likely wasn’t in their scope of practice, and they probably didn’t have personal experience or training in bowel disimpaction.

The River Valley Sun’s calls to the Nurses Asso-

ciation of New Brunswick and the Association of New Brunswick Licensed Practical Nurses to determine if this procedure was in their ‘scope of practice’ were not returned before press time.

We did get confirmation from a healthcare educator, who asked not to be named, that bowel disimpaction is not part of an LPN’s competencies.

We could not confirm, at press time, if this procedure was in an RN’s scope of practice.

“I don’t think, with the way the health care system is right now, that my home-care request should have been turned down,” said Antworth.

Antworth now wonders whether the length of her hospital stay would have been shorter had she been able to access the help of her home care workers.

“I feel like it just gave me more issues to deal with. How can you deny me home care, saying I am getting care in the hospital? The place is a mess. I would hear them

(patients) calling out and alarms ringing all the time. That’s not health care,” said Antworth.

The River Valley Sun left messages with the office of the URVH Facilities Manager, Sherry Leech, who did not return our calls before press time.

Etherington said the focus of Amanda’s close friends has been to get her back on track with home care, but says the Department of Social Development isn’t being helpful.

“Two social workers came to meet with us about Amanda’s future on April 13, “ explained Etherington, ”and they were basically telling her that if she didn’t agree with her plan, to use home care workers they approve, then they’d cut her off.”

Antworth says she prefers private home care rather than dealing with two agencies – a private company and Social Development – for her care.

“I just want to be able to have control over who is in my home and who is taking care of me. I don’t think that’s a lot to ask.”

IN CRISIS?

Here are the numbers to call:

Valley Comm. Health 356-6600

Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868

Dept. of Social Development 1-833-733-7835

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

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.

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. For more info, contact Manon Albert, Valley Outreach Coordinator, by calling 1-506-328-9680, or text 1-506328-7246, or email valleyoutreach@nb.aibn. com or reach out on Facebook Messenger.

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.

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 Wednesdays at 7 p.m. 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. Harvest House also offers other recovery programs. For more info, contact them at (506) 594-5000.

*IN AN EMERGENCY, CALL 911

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. We acknowledge the [financial] support of the Government of Canada.

Hospital selfie: Amanda Antworth documented issues during her four-month stay at the Upper River Valley Hospital. She asked Social Development to allow her home care workers to provide support while in hospital, but was denied. (Amanda Antworth photo)

Teachers demand government ‘stop the squeeze’

NBTF members march on education minister’s Woodstock office to demand action

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

More than 250 Upper River Valley teachers marched to the New Brunswick education minister’s constituency office in Woodstock Tuesday, April 11, to loudly deliver a clear message. The New Brunswick Teacher Federation, the union representing the province’s teachers, demands respect, action and a return to the negotiating table to secure a new contract.

Carrying posters of lemons, members of the NBTF, representing teachers from 295 anglophone and francophone schools across New Brunswick, marched the short distance from Woodstock’s Royal Canadian Legion to Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Bill Hogan’s office.

“The message is clear,” said NBTF co-president Connie Keating, “Stop the squeeze.”

Hogan stood outside his Main Street office to greet Keating, her fellow co-president Nathalie Brideau and more than 250 teachers between Keswick Ridge and Plaster Rock who attended the 4:30 p.m. rally.

“You’re asking teach-

ers to make lemonade out of dried-up lemons,” Keating told Hogan to the loud cheers of supporters.

Keating and Brideau, speaking alternately in English and French, asked Hogan to relay to his cabinet colleagues that teachers, who have been without a contract since February 2021, demand respect.

Hogan greeted the unionized teachers, many of whom were former colleagues from his days as a teacher and former principal of Woodstock High School.

He said that his current role as Carleton MLA and cabinet minister and his days as a teacher and principal helps him see both sides of the issue. He said a solution requires ongoing negotiations.

“I encourage both sides to get back to the bargaining table,” he said.

As education minister, Hogan said he has no direct role in bargaining efforts, noting the treasury board handles labour negotiations.

He refused to share whether there had been cabinet discussions nor what message he will take

back to cabinet.

“What happens in cabinet stays in cabinet,” Hogan said.

Keating said the Woodstock rally is the first of many similar actions around the province as the NBTF delivers its message.

The federation plans a rally in Fredericton on Wednesday, April 12, and another soon in Bathurst. She said others would be scheduled shortly at other locations around the province.

Keating said the turnout for the first rally sent a clear message of solidarity.

“We’re absolutely delighted with the crowd,” she said. “I’m so proud of my colleagues.”

Keating said the two sides had made progress on several issues, but much remains to be accomplished before a new contract is finalized.

She said respect for teachers and long-range improvements to the struggling education system is vital. She and Brideau emphasized many of those points to the minister and the large crowd of supporters.

They called out the gov-

ernment’s lack of tangible action to address the shortage of qualified teachers and failure to initiate teacher recruitment.

The NBTF wants the government to show it values the teaching profession

finally.

The union co-presidents said the government has no vision for improving the province’s education system.

“It’s a drop-off centre for our children,” Keating said.

Keating said the Higgs government talks about population and economic growth but must be ready to take advantage of opportunities.

“Teachers are the key,” she said.

Top: New Brunswick Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Bill Hogan meets with NBTF co-presidents, Connie Keating, centre, and Nathalie Brideau, right, and more than 250 NBTF members in front of his Woodstock office. Bottom: Natalie Brideau and Connie Keating lead the rally up Queen Street. (Jim Dumville photo)

Cost of water going up in Woodstock

Council approves multi-tier, flat-rate system and substantial hike for water, sewer services

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Woodstock residents who use public water and sewer will see higher costs and a new system when their 2023 bills arrive this summer.

With a seven-to-one vote at the Tuesday, April 11 meeting, council approved the recommendation by the town’s waterbilling purview committee to overhaul the billing system and increase the rates significantly.

Mayor Trina Jones said the town needs increased revenue to maintain and improve the deteriorating and long “underfunded” water and sewer system.

Noting Woodstock utility rates remained basically unchanged for decades, the mayor said the town fell behind in its needed upgrades.

“There is nothing in life today that is the same cost that it was 20 years ago,” she said.

During the discussion, Deputy Mayor Mark Rogers stressed that council’s decision is not related to recent news of milliondollar problems with the town’s planned second water source.

“This process started long before those problems,” he said. “It has absolutely nothing to do with the well. That money has to come from somewhere else.”

Veteran Coun. Jeff Bradbury was the only councillor to vote against accepting the committee recommendation, although

he said he understood the decision and the need for a significant boost in utility revenue.

While praising the committee’s efforts, Bradbury expressed hope for public consultation before moving forward.

“I just hope the residents understand what we’re trying to do here and that we have plans out there,” he said. “Because it’s a huge hike.”

The mayor agreed the hike is significant but noted approval allows the process to move forward to the bylaw amendment stage, where council could still make changes.

The committee recommendation, which is available in full on the Town of Woodstock website Town of Woodstock - Home, outlines four billing options — a single flat-rate billing, a tiered flat-rate billing, a metered billing with smart reading and a metered billing.

Coun. Julie CalhounWilliams, who sat on the water-billing committee, explained the decision to recommend the four-tiered flat-rate billing.

“After careful review of the costs of administering water services, current and future infrastructure cost needs, and the necessity to move forward quickly, the committee is recommending that we accept a twoprong approach,” she said.

She said the committee opted for the multi-tier flat rate approach over the

next two to three years while the town studied the “solution, costs and funding for a smart-metered system.”

Following the meeting, Calhoun-Williams and Mayor Jones noted the smart-metre approach would base all billing on consumption and promote water conservation but would mean high upfront costs for the town.

Calhoun-Williams explained the tiered residential rates divide more than 1,000 customers into tiers based on historical consumption.

— Tier 1 flat rate would be $550 per year, involving customers currently paying $450 or below.

— The Tier 2 flat rate would be a $725 annual fee, involving customers currently paying between $451 and $600.

— The Tier 3 flat rate would be an $825 annual fee, involving customers currently paying between $601 and $750.

— The Tier 4 flat rate would be a $925 annual fee, involving customers currently paying over $751.

The committee recommends billing those without a historical consumption rate, such as new dwellings or new owners at the Tier 2 level.

The committee estimated the residential billing alone would provide an additional $200,000 in revenue.

The committee recommendation calls for billing

multi-unit dwellings at $350 per unit per year and lowconsumption commercial buildings at a $550 per year flat rate.

The committee also recommended a 15 per cent discount for approved low and fixed-income residents.

Woodstock Director of Finance Kristin Pelkey estimated the town would deliver the 2023 water and sewer bills in June after council completes and approves the required bylaw amendments.

She explained the bills would encompass the entire year, from Jan. 1 to Dec. 21, 2023.

Pelkey said the bills would be payable in full, but residents could opt for an equalized-billing option through the online portal on the town’s website.

While online payments are the town’s preferred option, she said those without access or the ability to use a computer could make arrangements with town staff

for other payment options.

During council discussion, Pelkey explained the town’s last water billing occurred in late September or October, leaving the final four months of 2022 unbilled as the town awaited council’s billing decision.

She said the town would not bill for the last four months of 2022.

Despite the significant hikes in water and sewer bills, Jones said Woodstock residents are

still getting a fair deal.

She said only 30 per cent of the expanded Woodstock population uses the public water and sewer system. On average, she added, users pay approximately $1.50 daily for one of their most essential services.

Even with the significantly higher rates, Jones said Woodstock remains average or below average with most New Brunswick communities.

(File photo)

Woodstock’s $4-million second water source may be unusable

After several years and millions of dollars, municipality looking at more years and millions

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Aftermore than seven years and over $4 million invested, Woodstock’s long-awaited second well site might need years and millions more.

After hearing the town’s crucial new drinking-water source is unusable, at least beyond short-term emergency use, a frustrated mayor and council demanded answers and solutions.

CAO Andrew Garnett explained the problems publicly for the first time at the Tuesday, March 28, council meeting.

Mayor Trina Jones said council was fully briefed only last week about the significant long-term issues with the new well site.

She explained representatives with Dillon Consulting brought the severe problems to her attention only recently during a meeting she requested with CAO Andrew Garnett, Director of Financial Services Kristin Pelkey, and Director of Public Works and Utility Greg Stokes.

Jones explained the new well, expected to come online months ago, cannot be used today and possibly not for the foreseeable future.

She called it “beyond disappointing” to learn the town cannot use an eightyear project costing millions of dollars.

Garnett outlined the history of the well project, noting a spring flood in 2014 which washed away the causeway and power lines leading to the town’s only water source on an is-

land in the St. John River, crystalized the vital need for a backup well.

While town and NB Power crews quickly restored the causeway and power lines, the situation would have been dire if the ice flow had damaged the waterline. After years of searching for a second water source, the town identified a site on Shore Road in Grafton.

Garnett explained that the current problem involves the baseline for water tests, noting today’s test results are not the same as the original tests. He also said the planned use of the Grafton well has changed since construction began. Intended initially as a backup, the town’s increasing water demands meant it became more than a backup well.

While manganese is a long-running problem in Woodstock water, Garnett said salinity levels are the most significant issue at the new well. He said those levels increased greatly since the first tests.

Garnett said the town was prepared to look at a treatment plan for manganese if needed, but salinity levels came as a surprise.

“The bottom line is, as of now, we can only use that well on an emergency basis and for the short term,” he said.

Garnett said the issue now is finding a way to fix the problem.

He said Dillon is developing a double-focused report for council addressing funding options to cover a detailed study of the well

and finding the methods and cost of fixing it.

The CAO expressed confidence the Regional Development Corporation funds would be available for the study. Once the study identifies a remedy for the problems, the town must determine the cost and what federal and provincial programs are available.

Garnett said the most critical aspect of Dillon’s report is identifying the problem and finding how to fix it.

“That’s a little worrisome. How much is it going to cost us,” the CAO said.

Whatever the cost, it will add to the more than $4.1 million already spent to bring the new well online.

Pelkey broke down the sources of the $4.1 million, saying $1.7 million came from provincial and federal programs, including the RDC and ICIP (Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program). The town contributed almost $1.4 million and used more than $1 million of Gas Tax Funds.

Coun. Jeff Bradbury said he wants answers as to why the town finds itself in its current position. He and the mayor both stated they want to review all tests.

“Some questions have to be answered,” he said, noting three levels of government paid millions of dollars on a project that may not be usable.

Bradbury stressed the seriousness of the current dilemma.

(File photo)

Police confirm knife used during incident near Woodstock High

WPF said one student arrested, another treated for non-life threatening injuries

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Onestudent was arrested and another taken to hospital after the Woodstock Police Force and Ambulance New Brunswick responded to what police describe as an “aggravated assault” near Woodstock High School at noon Tuesday, March 28.

In a statement issued March 30, Woodstock Police Force Gary Forward said the incident occurred in a parking lot adjacent to the Woodstock High School involving two students.

“Although our investigation to date has revealed this to be an isolated incident with no further immediate or ongo-

ing risk to other students, it is necessary that police demonstrate transparency by advising that a knife was used that resulted in non-life-threatening injuries,” the police said in the March 30 statement.

Forward said the Woodstock Police Force arrested the subject student in this matter, while the other student was taken to the Upper River Valley for treatment of his injuries.

He said the police force is working in partnership with school officials and social services to mitigate any further risks.

Shortly after the incident on March 28, WHS

Principal Derrick O’Leary sent a message to parents and guardians informing them of the incident.

“Today at lunchtime, an incident occurred off school grounds involving two students from our school,’ O’Leary wrote. “In the interest of safety, we took appropriate measures to handle the situation, and the police and paramedics were called.”

While offering few details, O’Leary explained he sent the message to families as discussions about the incident may arise at home and on social media.

“I would like to remind you that in these instanc-

es, social media often worsens situations by inciting fear, spreading misinformation and inflaming important issues we are working hard to address,” the principal wrote.

He encouraged parents

Graffiti vandals hit Pembroke Hall

Someone spray paints building exterior

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

“It’s frustrating,” said Ethel Patterson about someone’s thoughtless use of black spray paint to leave an unsightly and mostly unreadable message on the Pembroke Community Hall.

Patterson, who lives directly across Newburg Road from the hall and is one of the many volunteers who helps maintain the building and plan community events, said a neighbour brought the latest graffiti attack to her attention on April 7.

She said one or more persons spayed the south end of the building, near the back entrance, some-

time overnight, a day or two before Good Friday. Most of the ugly black graffiti tag is illegible except for one foul word.

While the building was not physically damaged, caretakers of the community hall sitting at the corner of Route 105 and Newburg Road in Pembroke know from experience how difficult it is to cover or remove the paint.

A fading reddish stain on the opposite side of the hall remains a telltale sign of a past graffiti attack with the vandals using red spray paint.

While she understands it is challenging to find the

culprits without witnesses, Patterson said she notified the RCMP to make them aware of the situation. She said the police told her officers would be out to investigate in a few days.

Patterson said the hall is a well-maintained and popular spot for events, such as community breakfasts, music shows, birthday parties and other celebrations. She said the community hall volunteers hope to restart their popular monthly breakfasts in April or May but acknowledged finding enough volunteers is becoming more challenging.

and guardians to contact him if they had questions.

Forward said the matter remains under investigation.

Police also encouraged anyone who witnessed the altercation or has

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video evidence to contact Woodstock Police Force at 325-4601 or Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (1-800-222-8477) or visit www.crimenb.ca and submit an anonymous tip online.

Graffiti vandals spray paint the southside of the Pembroke Hall in Pembroke. (Jim Dumville photo)

Woodstock police and Ambulance N.B. responded to an incident across Connell Park Road from Woodstock High School on March 28. (Jim Dumville photo)

Both vehicles stolen from side of the road on Route 108

Perth-Andover RCMP searching for stolen truck, ATV RIVER VALLEY SUN

The Perth-Andover RCMP is seeking the public’s help locating a stolen pickup truck and an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) from Enterprise, N.B.

In a statement and photos released on April 6, the Perth-Andover RCMP detachment believes the theft occurred between 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. on April 1.

Police said both vehicles were parked on the side of the road on the

Route 108 highway near mile marker 78.

The RCMP described the pickup truck as a grey 2010 Ford F-150 with New Brunswick licence plate CUC 265 and vehicle identification number 1FTFW1EVXAFB63966.

They described the ATV as a blue 2022 Yamaha YFZ 450, with New Brunswick licence plate YE6 379 and vehicle identification number 5Y4AJ69W9NA300642.

The RCMP asks any-

one who has seen the truck or the ATV since April 1 or has information to help further the investigation to contact the Perth-Andover RCMP detachment at 506- 2735000.

They added that anyone with information can provide it anonymously through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at www.crimenb.ca.

Police seize vehicle, find weapons, drugs

Investigation ongoing after WPF officers make stop on Main Street

RIVER VALLEY SUN

The Woodstock Po -

lice Force seized a vehicle and subsequently found weapons and suspected drugs following the traffic stop on Main Street in Woodstock.

In a media release on Wednesday, March 22, the Woodstock police explained the officers conducted the traffic stop at 9:40 a.m. on March 14.

The stop resulted in police seizing and securing the vehicle.

Two days later, on

March 16, Woodstock officers executed a search warrant on the same vehicle.

Police said the search led to the seizure of several items from the vehicle, including “a pellet pistol resembling a handgun and pellets, a machete, gun ammunition for a shotgun and handgun, a prohibited switchblade, a baggie of white powder believed to be illegal drugs.”

The police said the investigation remains ongoing.

The media release stressed that the Woodstock Police Force and their policing partners, the Department of Justice and Public Safety and RCMP, recognize the public safety concerns surrounding the presence of firearms, drugs, and weapons in the community.

“Our police agencies are committed to raising awareness related to the effects of these types of offences within our community,” the WPF release stated.

Police encourage anyone with information on this matter, the sale and distribution of illegal firearms, drugs, and weapons or any other criminal matter in the community to contact Woodstock Police Force at 1-506-325-4601.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers by phoning 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), or by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at www.crimenb.ca.

Upper Woodstock house gutted by stubborn fire

Chief said firefighters battled for hours to knock down accidental blaze

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Afire described as accidental on Monday afternoon, March 20, significantly damaged and potentially destroyed a home which sat at 886 Upper Main Street (Route 103) in Woodstock for over a century.

Woodstock Fire Department Chief Harold McLellan said the crew, which arrived on the scene around 3 p.m., continued an interior attack on the fire for more than three hours.

Several firefighters, wearing breathing apparatus, began immediately to conduct an interior assault from the older home’s second floor. As fire crews

worked, smoke billowed through eaves.

“We held it to where we could hold it,” the chief said.

McLellan said the house’s owner, who he believes is the only home occupant, was at work when the mid-afternoon fire ignited. He said passersby noticed the smoke and called in the fire.

He said they managed to open the door to rescue two dogs just before fire crews arrived. He said one of the frightened dogs ran away but was safely located after a long search.

McLellan said the fire started in the attached back porch and travelled

to the roofline of the main house. He said it eventually reached the older house’s attic, becoming a brutal battle for the fire crews.

Describing the home, like many homes of its era, as “balloon construction,” with 2 X 4 lumber running from the roof to the basement wall, McLellan said the fire presented a challenge for firefighters.

On the other hand, he added, the blaze may have destroyed a newer home quickly.

McLellan said the fire caused significant damage to the entire structure, destroying its roof. He said the homeowner and insurance

James C. Douglass Tax Service Inc.

company would decide if the home could be saved. He said that would probably depend upon the cost of repairs.

While the roof, attic and second floor saw most of the fire damage, the chief said the entire structure sustained significant smoke and water damage.

McLellan said fire crews, with directions from the homeowner, carried some collectibles and personal items, including guitars, to safety. The chief praised his team’s work, which battled hours in the smoke and heat to bring the fire under control finally. He said they

left the building with the fire completely extinguished.

“The boys did a super overhaul,” he said, noting the lack of flare-ups after they left the scene.

As the fire weakened the roof, McLellan said he had to be aware of the safety of his team inside the structure.

“It’s always life over risk,” he said.

McLellan said the firefighters controlled the situation before that became a factor. He said fighting a fire of this type is physically demanding.

“We had some tired boys,” he said.

McLellan said they notified the Red Cross to support the displaced homeowner if he requested it.

Ambulance NB, the RCMP, the Woodstock Police Force and NB Power line crews also attended the fire scene.

McLellan said the firefighters had to be aware of the high-voltage power lines running near the front of the house. The fire chief returned to the site with investigators from the Fire Marshal’s Office Tuesday morning, March 21. He said they determined the fire as accidental but declined to offer more details.

Woodstock Composite High School

50th Graduation Anniversary Reunion Planning

An informal committee from the WCHS graduating class of 1971 was planning for a 2021 reunion, but the pandemic postponed things. We are working on a reunion for this summer (2023), and are including graduates from 1970 and 1972, as well. We do not have current contact information (e-mail, phone, postal) for quite a few of our 1971 classmates and ask that you reach out to 1971 Class President, Sandy Briggs, at briggsag@xplornet.ca with your contact information.

Woodstock firefighters battle a stubborn fire in Upper Woodstock. (Jim Dumville photo)

Hunters fear legislation will threaten traditional practices

Assembly of First Nations passes resolution opposing bill to strengthen gun control

By Alexandra Mehl – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Bill C-21, gun control legislation that is currently being considered in Ottawa, was intended to address firearm violence and strengthen laws by controlling handguns and assault rifles. In late November, the Liberal party proposed amendments to the bill that would impact hunters with its broader scope of banning rifles.

At the beginning of February, the amendment that would include some long guns and rifles used for hunting had been withdrawn, though it has been speculated that is only temporary.

For Moy Sutherland Sr. of Ahousaht, he understands the hurt that is associated with gun violence. However, he explains that this legislation impacts people who are honorable with firearms.

“[The] main priority in our life is not for criminal activity, it’s for hunting,” said Sutherland Sr.

He’s been hunting for over 65 years to provide food for his family and community. Sutherland Sr. started out in his youth

observing his father and brothers when they would hunt.

Hunting was something that always brought him and his family together, a way to connect to their culture as a family utilizing traditional fishing, hunting, and harvesting practices.

The first time Sutherland Sr. shot a deer he was hunting with his father at age 17. His father explained that this would be the last time the boy would watch him field dress a deer.

His father said to him, “from here on in, you are going to always going to work on your own animal,” explained Sutherland Sr. “Every animal you get is your responsibility to work on it that way.”

Sutherland Sr. has gone on to share his knowledge of hunting with his children. His son got his first animal when he was old enough to work on it himself, he explained. Just as Sutherland Sr. had learned, his son would learn to carry firearms and bow and arrows safely, always treating rifles as

though there is ammunition in them. Safety was a priority for Sutherland Sr.

“Firearms regulations are always developed by people who automatically think of it as a necessity of criminal life to have firearms and anybody who has firearms is potentially a criminal and that’s why the laws are created the way that they do them,” said Sutherland Sr. “They forget about us people that live the way that we do hunting and fishing, what those firearms mean to us to supply food for our family and community.”

When a community member or a family member is struggling with an illness or a loss, Sutherland Sr explains that he helps by offering them traditional food that has been hunted.

Sam Haiyupis, an Ahousaht member, has been hunting since he was roughly 13 years old.

Just as Sutherland Sr., Haiyupus started his hunting journey as an observer of his father and brothers getting bigger animals such as deer or bear. To this day, Haiyupus contin-

WFN Healthy Hampers

THIS IS FOR WOODSTOCK FIRST NATION MEMBERS ONLY

The WFN Healthy Hamper Program is a bulk-buying initiative that allows people to get a large bag full of produce, once a month, for a lot less than you’d buy the goods in stores! To learn more or sign up, email Holly Polchies at hollypolchies@ yahoo.ca to get all the information you need to join!

ues to go out hunting with his brother.

“My whole family…I would say, depended on different seasons of hunting that we can participate in,” said Haiyupis. “We’ve always been that way.”

Haiyupis explains that he grew up around his parents plucking, dressing, and preparing ducks that were hunted, together. This is now something that Haiyupis does with his partner.

“They’re all my favorite memories because I can pretty much remember just about every year and every place that I caught [an animal],” said Haiyupis.

In early December the Assembly of First Nation passed an emergency resolution opposing Bill C-21.

Haiyupis said that he struggles not seeing much Indigenous leadership speaking out about issues involving hunting.

“To me, any rifle, if you’re using it for hunting, it’s not an assault style, it’s a hunting rifle,” said Haiyupis.

He continues that the

politicians that are making this legislation don’t have a full understanding of rifles, the way that a hunter does.

“We go through all this screening when we do our application for our [Possession and Acquisition Licence]. And yet, it’s not enough that we shouldn’t be trusted with what we own,” said Haiyupis.

“We [hunt] for sustenance,” added Haiyupis. “It’s a way of life for us, for a lot of us.”

Darren DeLuca is owner of Vancouver Island Outfitters for the last 30 years. Deluca grew up in Port Alberni where he had access to the backcountry and started hunting with friends as a teenager.

“The amount of time that you spend in the outdoors, and the things you see and experience, you sort of see the glory in nature… both its strength and its fragility,” said DeLuca.

Deluca explains that with hunting, because you are taking the life of an animal, hunters often build a sense of personal responsibility and stewardship towards nature and wildlife.

With Nuu-chah-nulth teachings at the center, Sutherland Sr. teaches respect for the environment, animals that are hunted and the people who are joining the hunt, whether they are elders or the younger generation. Respect is the number one

priority, including not overharvesting.

“It’s partly also looking after the population of what we’re out there for,” said Sutherland Sr.

“[The last minute amendment] feels like a target on rural communities, and has distracted from the original purpose of the bill,” said NDP MP Rachel Blaney while in the House of Commons.

But Canada’s Minister of Public Safety Marco Mendicino stressed that the bill was to target AR15 style guns, used in previous shootings such as Polytechnique.

For DeLuca, hunting is about going out with friends, families, and sustaining his community.

“The real crime issue is handguns in gangs in the inner cities,” said DeLuca.

“I always see governments trying to restrict hunters’ rights, and I never once see them do something to support hunters’ rights, bring forward a regulation, or an act that protects a person’s right to hunt and fish,” said DeLuca.

“Fortunately, Indigenous people have the constitutional right to hunt and fish,” he added. “In a lot of cases it’s protected wildlife, because they had to protect that constitutional right.”

Ahousaht band member Sam Haiyupis has been a hunter since he was a teenager. (Submitted)

– Alexandra Mehl is a reporter with Ha-Shilth-Sa in B.C., Canada’s oldest First Nation Newspaper.

‘We’re Here For You’ non-profit giving support

Group provides comfort kits, helps victims of sexual assault and intimate partner violence

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Arecently created nonprofit has partnered with New Brunswick hospital emergency rooms to provide comfort and needed supplies to victims of sexual assault and family violence.

Founder Sarah Sherman’s chosen name for the fundraising organization, which has served Woodstock and the Upper River Valley for over a year, explains its focus.

“We’re Here For You,” the non-profit works with emergency rooms and Forensic Nurse Examiners to deliver comfort kits to victims of sexual assault and intimate-partner violence.

“We provide comfort kits,” explained Heather Neilson-Furrow, who joined Sherman as the group’s executive assistant. The kits include “toiletries and immediate personal care, new clothing, and gift cards for fuel, meals, food, etc., to those who see the Nurse Examiner.”

Sherman said she initiated the idea for the non-profit in December 2021 on a “Giving Tuesday.”

“I wanted to fundraise for a cause,” she explained. “I wanted to contribute to the community and help others. The kits do that.”

As a former victim herself several years ago in Nanaimo, B.C., Sherman said she fully under-

stands the trauma, fear and devastation sexual assault and intimate-partner-violence victims face when they arrive at emergency rooms.

She remembers being lost psychologically and emotionally, not to mention the financial and social loss, when forced to leave everything behind to escape the abuse and pain.

“It took everything,” Sherman said. “I had nothing.”

She remembers staff searching around to finally find an ill-fitting bright pink velour outfit for her to wear and a few personal items. We’re Here For You — Comfort Kit Program is designed to alleviate at least some of these victims’ incredible burdens and embarrassment.

On Wednesday, April 5, Sherman and NeilsonFurrow visited Vitality Massage and Bodywork in downtown Woodstock to pick up a donation from owner Michele Arsenault.

Arsenault said her business, which offers therapeutic massage, TCM acupuncture, nutritional coaching, reflexology, Reiki, Bodytalk, NLP and alternative healing services, held an open house and fundraiser.

While the open house helped celebrate Vitality’s first anniversary and bring awareness to the health services she and her staff

deliver, Arsenault also wanted to raise funds and bring awareness to a deserving non-profit.

She said Vitality’s wellness educator Kelly Haley brought the We’re Here For You — Comfort Kit Program to her attention, and she knew it was a cause that needed support.

Through donations from visitors to the open house and support from other downtown businesses, Vitality raised money for the non-profit.

Arsenault stressed the importance of giving credit to her many business neighbours who provided prizes and support. They included Mother Nature’s Market, RPM Innovations, Vie Boutique, Covey Basics, Looks Unlimited, East Coast Soaps, Whole Body Wellness, Cakes by the Lakes and Harlen Brews.

Neilson-Furrow said We’re Here For You has served Woodstock and the Upper River Valley for over a year and a half, and their support continues growing.

“We are grateful for any support from the community and have been supported by the Rotaract Club of Woodstock and River Valley Caring Communities,” she said. “This is a grant and donationbased program — there are no barriers involved to those who need help — the nurses have com-

plete autonomy to help their patients with the kits we provide.”

Neilson-Furrow said the program’s service areas continue to expand, noting they now provide kits to the Upper River Valley Hospital, Dr. Edward Chalmers Hospital and Saint John Regional Hospital.

Sherman said other hospitals in New Brunswick, plus some in P.E.I. and Nova Scotia, are interested.

Because of the interest from outside the province, she said they’ve opted to apply to register the program as a federal non-profit, which is still pending.

Sherman said the program keeps emergency rooms stocked with the kits in the form of three different totes offering new clothing in various sizes, shoes, personal items, gift cards for gas,

food and other items.

Neilson noted the kits also include items for children.

While the kits won’t eradicate the pain and suffering of victims, Sherman said they would at least relieve some of the victims’ worries and demonstrate someone is on their side.

She explained the Forensic Nurses and other hospital staff do what they can, but their resources and time are limited. She added many victims have no support network of friends or family.

Sherman said some victims might opt to travel to emergency rooms outside their area to escape the stigma in the home community.

In addition to the comfort kits, Sherman said the program works with groups, such as the provincial government’s “Love Shouldn’t Hurt”

program to provide youth awareness about sexual and intimate partner violence.

“Hopefully,” said Neilson-Furrow, “we can teach them to watch for red flags.”

Neilson-Furrow and Sherman expressed appreciation for the support of Vitality, the other downtown business, and the many others who stepped forward in their first year.

“We are grateful for any support from the community and have been supported by the Rotaract Club of Woodstock and River Valley Caring Communities,” NeilsonFurrow said.

Sherman said anyone wishing to support the program could find a donate button and information on their website werehereforyou.ca and keep up-to-date on their Facebook site.

Michele Arsenault, left, owner of Vitality Massage and Bodyworks in Woodstock presents a donation to “We’re Here For You” to Comfort Kits founder Sarah Sherman, centre, and executive assistant Heather Neilson-Furrow. (Jim Dumville photo)

District of Carleton North council briefs

April 11 meeting deals with future of policing, council roadshow, post office

By Sandra Hanson

Policing report pushes the idea of a municipal force

The District of Carleton North council is looking hard at policing in their community. At the April 11 meeting, Scott Oakes, Chair of the Ad Hoc Policing Model Committee, unveiled his report.

He advised council that the committee consulted with active police officers, retired police officers, nine municipal police forces around the province, and others to gather information on what models of policing could be viable for the District of Carleton North.

The committee compiled the information into a document titled the Policing Framework, which summarizes the current policing service, past service received when the RCMP had a detachment in Florenceville-Bristol, and how a conceptual municipal police force could look.

Mayor Andrew Harvey noted the deep concern residents and businesses expressed about

the lack of police presence in Carleton North.

“When I was campaigning, this was the number one issue for people,” he said. “They’re scared and afraid, even where they live in their own homes. It’s our responsibility when we see a problem like that to try and correct it.”

While council and the committee didn’t share the framework’s details publicly, Harvey told council members the District of Carleton North currently spends $2 million annually for policing. He said the community receives little service for that money.

“We have no detachment,” said Harvey. “We have no presence in the communities. We have a large geographical area, close to 1,400 square kilometres, which is challenging [for the RCMP] to patrol. It has to be done on a more local basis.”

Harvey stressed that people need to feel safe as they live their lives and do their business, and they need to have their property protected.

“The [current] system is not serving us

well, and the money that we pay is a significant amount,” he said.

Council accepted The Policing Framework report and will submit it to the Department of Justice and Public Safety to explore the viability of the proposed municipal policing model. He said the town could also discuss other suggested alternatives.

Rezoning for Welcome Centre and Railway Museum

Mayor Harvey advised council that the Town of Florenceville-Bristol has been trying to find someone to lease the Welcome Centre and Railway Museum for tourism purposes. However, he added, the Western Valley Regional Service Commission advised the district that the property rezoning to make that happen.

Council agreed to request a rezoning of the property to allow for tourism-related use by an outside operator. Council meeting roadshow

Councillor Angel Connor explained to the council that the Ad-

Woodstock Living Free Alcoholics Anonymous

The local AA group “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

Choice

ministration Committee would like to improve community engagement by hosting one council meeting per month in a different Carleton North community.

She explained an open Q&A session would directly follow the meeting, and the event would end with a reception with light refreshments.

“I’m very excited about this,” said Connor. “I hope each councillor will encourage people to get out.”

Harvey also expressed approval and hopes to see large crowds attending.

“I think this is a great idea,” he said.

The “Roadshow” council meetings will begin at 6:30 p.m., on the following schedule:

• May 9 – Centreville Multiplex

• June 13 – Stickney Recreation Centre

• July 11 – Juniper Recreation Centre

• Aug 8 – Bath Knights of Columbus Hall

• Sept 12 – Lakeville Community Centre

• Oct 10 – Upper Kent Recreation Centre

• Nov 14 – Glassville Recreation Centre

• Dec 12 – Mt. Pleasant Community Hall District to maintain Centreville Post Office grounds

Mayor Harvey said Canada Post approached the District of Carleton North, asking the district to conduct summer maintenance at the Centreville Post Office.

He said the proposed contract would pay $300 per month from May 1 through Oct. 31, including duties such as raking, repairing ruts, pruning, sweeping sidewalks, driveways, and parking areas, mowing and weeding, and fall clean up.

Before the amalgamation, the Village of Centreville provided this service.

Councillor Laurel Bradstreet suggested the village could find other options this year.

“There are businesses in town that do that

kind of work,” she said.

While some council members noted some businesses provide maintenance services, council said the village had provided the service for the past decade. Council agreed the district would continue the service to Canada Post for $350 monthly, plus HST. Job Fair scheduled for late April

Noting many area employers are struggling to find workers, Councillor Ray Haines said the job fair at the Amsterdam Inn & Suites on April 27 is designed to bring help.

He said the fair would run from noon to 6 p.m., with over 29 employers invited, 11 confirmed thus far.

“This will give employers a chance to meet,” he said.

SUNNY-SIDE UP

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

RVS Word Search: SPRING WARMTH

Did you KNOW?

• The Latin word for “season” is sationem, meaning “seed time.” • Spring was formerly referred to as lent, which was changed to springtime around the 1300s, and eventually was shortened to spring. Spring is derived from the time of year when plants begin to grow again or spring from the earth.

• According to a Facebook survey, early spring is when couples are the most likely to break up.

• The reason why Easter changes every year is that it falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon of the spring equinox. “Spring fever” may be a real (and good) thing! Scientists believe longer days cause people to be more active, creative, and happy.

RVS TONGUE TWISTER

Spring sprang a surprise in Stickney, with silly, sunny Sundays and stunning sunsets with super storms.

CARLETON COUNTY Colloquialisms

By John Morris

SEEDS SPROUTING

EARTH

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!

SENIOR SOCIAL

featuring

The Usual Suspects

with Eric Brydges, Mike Wheeler & John Cahill

Wednesday, April 26 from 2 to 4 p.m.

Ticket cost: $5 per person & includes light refreshments Get advance tickets by phone (506) 325-4302 or email ayrmotorcentre@town.woodstock.nb.ca

INDUCTION CEREMONY

Saturday, May 13 at 2 p.m.

AYR MOTOR CENTRE - ROTARY ROOM

Welcome inductees Andrew McCain & Scott Jones Reception to follow EVERYONE IS WELCOME!

SUMMER PROGRAM REGISTRATION NIGHT

Wednesday, May 17 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the AYR MOTOR FIELD HOUSE

Local clubs and organizations will be here to share information about programs and events this summer!

THANK YOU!

Thank you to our partners, sponsors, personal donors, and volunteers for making ‘A Winter in Woodstock’ a success!

jiggitinnie\’jah-’git-tin-nee\ interrogate – Contraction of the interrogative phrase “did you get any?” The term is typically employed when asking about someone’s fishing trip, or their romantic exploits; “Heard ya went fiddleheadin’ up the Miramichi yestidee... jiggitinnie?”

Hear this word pronounced at www.dooryard.ca.

RAIN Have ideas for our ‘Did You Know” or “Word Search’ features, drop Theresa a note at theresa@rivervalleysun.ca

GET ACTIVE THIS SPRING!

WOODSTOCK BOXING AND SPORT CLUB

WOMEN’S BOXING FITNESS

Mondays - 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Saturdays - 8:30 to 10 a.m. All Fitness Levels Welcome!

$8/Drop-in; $65/Punch Card Try it for Free!

COMPETITIVE TRAINING

Wednesdays and Fridays 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays 1 to 3 p.m. NEW! RECREATIONAL BOXING TRAINING

Tuesdays 6:30 to 8 p.m., Drop in fee: $8 or punch card option NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY

ACTIVE ADULTS

EVERY MONDAY from 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. AYR Motor Centre Sam’s Room & Field House Dominos, pickleball, cards, shuffle board, washer toss & more! Cost - FREE!

*Remember to bring indoor shoes for field house activities!

TIM HORTONS WELLNESS CENTRE

Lots of options to fit your budget!

Student Membership Summer Specialincludes field house drop ins and lap swims May 1 - Sept. 1 - $125 tax included)

WALKING TRACK

Come in and walk or run in a safe, climate-controlled environment!

50+ Aquasize

Every Wednesday from 10 to 11 a.m. Low impact workout - Cost: $2 AYR Motor Centre Aquatic Facility

WATCH OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR THE LATEST ACTIVITIES!

Women’s Day 2023

The Village of Southern Victoria will host a Women’s Day celebration from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, April 22. It offers a day to celebrate women and women in business and is a one-stop shop for great products and services. Public admission to the show is free. Anyone wishing to showcase their products and services should call 506-2734959 Ext 2.

Giant garage sale at RVCC

The River Valley Civic Centre will host the Spring Giant Garage Sale on Saturday, May 6, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Admission is $1 per person and free to children 12 and under. Call 506-273-4959 Ext. 2 to book.

Gospel concert

Free Will Baptist Church in Florenceville-Bristol (20 Tapley Rd.) will host a gospel concert on Sunday, April 30, starting at 6 p.m. The fundraiser will support the church’s cemetery. Performers include Naomi Craig, SueEllen Derrah, Harold Ketch, Vera Doherty, Kevin Briggs, Keran and Sarah Valji, Ed Sealy, Norma Kinney and Hank Giberson.

Council meetings online

The District of Carleton North council meets on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month. The public is always welcome to attend. The meetings are now live-streamed and can be viewed through the YouTube channel at https://www. youtube.com/@districtofcarletonnorth/featured.

Community calendar

The Community Calendar located on our website at www.carletonnorth.com/communitycalendar for a complete list of upcoming events in our community. Any person, local user group, organization, committee or business can submit a form on the website to add to the calendar! For more information, contact 506-392-6763 ext. 201.

Summer student employment

Carleton North is accepting applications for summer student jobs. Opportunities are available in recreation/pool, maintenance/ beautification and tourism. Applicants should state their preference on their resumes. Email resumes to lesley.mcbride@carletonnorth. com. Only those selected for interviews will be contacted. For more information, contact 506-392-6763 ext. 203.

Spring Job Fair

Carleton North will host a Spring Job Fair on Thursday, April 27, from noon to 6 p.m. at the Amsterdam Inn & Suites in Florenceville-Bristol. Explore the job opportunities available in the community. Bring your resume and talk with employers. For more info, contact 506-3926763 ext. 201.

Babysitting Course

The Northern Carleton Civic Centre will host a babysitting course on April 24 and 25 from 3:15 to 5:30 p.m. Pre-registration is required; limited spots available. For more info, visit the district’s Facebook page or call the recreation department at 392-6763 ext. 209.

Seniors can socialize

A senior social is held every Wednesday from 1 to 4 p.m. at Community Hall, 8696 Main St., Florenceville-Bristol. The cost is $3. For more info, call the Recreation Department at 392-6763 ext. 209

Western Valley Regional Games

The District of Carleton North Recreation Department will host the 2023 Games on July 19 and 20., offering fun for children aged 8-13 —more details to come.

Tourism mentorship available

Funding has been extended for the Class-Of-One Tourism Entrepreneur Mentorship program. Anyone with a new or existing tourism idea for the District of Carleton North who seeks expert guidance should check out the district’s free program at www.classofone.ca. Space is limited.

Potato World to open in May

Potato World opens for the tourism season on Monday, May 29. Stop by to see its renovations.

MCS Craft Fair

The Meduxnekeag Consolidated School Home and School will hold its annual spring craft show on Saturday, April 22, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Organizers still have room for more vendors at $25 for a six-foot table and $50 for a 12-foot table. Email Heather Richardson at HomeandSchooMCS@gmail.com to reserve a table.

Miss Woodstock Pageant

The Miss Woodstock Pageant will be held Monday, May 8, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the McCain Community Theatre in the Woodstock High School.

Musical event at Connell House

Award-winning singer-songwriters Del Barber and Lucette will perform in concert at Connell House on May 5 at 7 p.m. Tickets are available @ showpass.com/delbarberconnellhouse. The event is hosted by the Carleton County Historical Society.

Lakeland Ridges

Meductic clean-up day

Celebrate Earth Day on April 22, with Meductic volunteers as they clean up the village. Volunteers will meet at Meductic Park at 10 a.m. Snacks will follow.

Music at the Lions Club

Singers and musicians will hit the stage from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday, April 29, for a musical jamboree.

LOWER BRIGHTON CEMETERY CLEANUP

The Lower Brighton Cemetery spring cleanup is on Tuesday, May 9, starting at 6:30 p.m., with a rain date of Thursday, May 11, at 6:30 p.m. Rakes, shovels, wheelbarrows, and garbage bags are provided, but feel free to bring your own supplies. Work includes raking, picking up garbage, straightening grave stones, and filling in graves that have sunken over winter. Everyone welcome! Come meet old and new friends adn get some exercise. Questions? Contact Dave Clark at (506) 375-6776 or Randy Brown at (506) 325-0209

Hartland municipal council briefs

April 3 meeting sees mayor get award, discussions on tourism, unsightly premises

By Sandra Hanson

Platinum Jubilee Medal presented to mayor Carleton MLA and New Brunswick Education and Early Childhood Development Minister

Bill Hogan attended Hartland council’s April 3 meeting to recognize Mayor Tracey Demerchant for her service to the community and province.

“It is my pleasure,” said Hogan, “to be here tonight to present Mayor Tracey Demerchant the Queen Elizabeth 2nd Platinum Jubilee medal in recognition of her contribution to the Province of New Brunswick.”

Demerchant thanked Hogan for the honour.

“I consider it a great privilege to serve as mayor for Hartland, and I appreciate the confidence the council has put behind me,” she said. “I hope that together we can continue to do great things for our town.”

Tourism website development deferred

With the loss of the Tourism and Economic Development position, town staff asked council to defer the development of their proposed tourism website.

In response to questions about a replacement, CAO Rob Webber explained that the position will remain unfilled for now because of the deficit.

He said that the Western Valley Regional Service Commission (WVRSC) is now doing more with tourism. They are providing some of the services lost with the termination of Hartland’s tourism position. He added the website would not generate enough revenue to justify the cost.

“Because of our lack of restaurants, shops, and motels, like you’d see in a place like Saint

Andrews, a tourism website for us isn’t as necessary,” he said.

Webber explained that the WVRSC is considering creating a regional tourism website featuring Hartland.

“If that happens, we’ll be aggressive in getting ourselves in there and sharing what we have to offer,” he said. Unsightly premises enforcement coming soon

Hartland updated its Unsightly Premises Act to reflect the added power in the province’s Local Governance Act.

In 2017, New Brunswick passed the Local Governance Act to replace the Municipalities Act.

The new act contained expanded provisions regarding dangerous and unsightly premises, including municipal responsibilities. Since the Town of Hart -

GRAB IT BEFORE IT’S GONE ageless New Brunswick

SCOTT MCCAIN

land’s Unsightly Premises By-Law referenced the now defunct Act, the town updated it to reference the revised act.

Under the enforcement section of the updated provincial act, the town must appoint a by-

law enforcement officer.

CAO Rob Webber explained staff would explore options to meet that requirement, noting Hartland lacks the size needed to support a fulltime position.

“We’re going to speak

with neighbouring municipalities to see if we can work with them or if we might hire a private company, which some places do.,” he said. Webber said they hope to appoint someone by summer.

McCain Foods Board Chairman Scott McCain talks candidly about family dynamics, hockey’s influence, and heading up his family’s multi-national corporation. We also profile western NB newspaper barons David and Marlene Henley. The new issue will be out in April, so grab this one while you can!

RURAL ROOTS

Stories About Farming and Rural Life in Western New Brunswick

Combining agriculture and technology

CNHS ag fair showcases expanding range of opportunities in farming-related industries

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Today’s farm industry is more than barns, fields, crops and animals. It offers career opportunities in high-tech, engineering, science, trades and business.

On Thursday, March 30, Carleton North High School hosted its Ag Expo, with 19 exhibitors offering middle and high school students a first-hand look at opportunities beyond working in fields and barns.

Green Diamond Equipment, the distributor of the iconic John Deere farm equipment, was one of the many exhibitors showcasing the agriculture industry’s changing career landscape.

“We’re now known as a technology company,” said Green Diamond Director of Human Resources Krista Prescott.

The list of career opportunities, including educational requirements, on the John Deere booth’s many display boards, emphasized Prescott’s perspective. It included nine career paths in the company,

The list included IT professionals, accountants, Red Seal technicians, HR, marketing, payroll and administrative professionals, and sales and parts representatives.

Green Diamond marketing professional Stephanie Allison said students

showed interest in the career opportunities on display.

Valerie Carmichael, Anglophone School District West community engagement schools coordinator, said they designed the March 30 event to expand student awareness of the modern farm and associated industries.

She said the expo also took on a “sustainable theme,” with many exhibitors showcasing their environmentally friendly approaches to today’s agriculture efforts.

Carmichael said the exhibitors included agriculture, associated businesses, and several organizations, such as Potatoes NB and Dairy Farmers of New Brunswick.

She explained the expo set up in the CNHS gymnasium allowed students to wander comfortably through the exhibits with time to talk to exhibitors and ask questions.

Carmichael said event organizers placed several exhibitors offering interactive displays and games on one side of the gym. She said they divided students into small groups, each given a set time at an exhibit.

Former CNHS student

Leigh Hunter hosted the McCain Food booth, promoting the Florenceville-

Bristol-based global giant’s Farms of the Future. The Technical Lead said one of his interactive displays showcased the future farm’s variable rate of seeding and fertilizing.

Hunter said he was an example of changing times and new job opportunities in the ag sector.

“When I graduated in 2011,” he said, “this wasn’t a type of job available.”

Cindy McLaughlin of Jolly Farmer provided information about career opportunities at the massive greenhouse operation in Northampton, south of Woodstock. She also made sure students didn’t leave empty-handed. Students could take a liner and seedling of Marigolds or Coleus plants to grow at home.

Kaitlen Nicholson helped guide students from the fields to the forest as she represented South Ridge Maple and Canadian Organic Maple.

She said the Hargrove family-owned business taps 250,000 trees and supplies a worldwide market, with Germany and the UK as the maple producer’s most prominent global customers. She said their product is also sold locally in Sobeys stores.

Like all farming, Nicholson said the maple

business also witnessed significant technological advances in recent years.

“You won’t see many buckets hanging on trees,” she said.

Grade 9 teacher Peter Carswell said students enjoyed the expo, noting the event may have opened the eyes to potential careers for a few students. He said he also learned a

lot about the agriculture industry.

Carswell and Carmichael both noted the importance of exposing students to the many career paths that await them and how and where to develop the education and skills needed to pursue them.

The Ag Expo was the second significant career event hosted at Carleton

North this school year. On Dec. 1, the school presented the Skills Canada TryA-Trade Expo, which exposed students to the high demand for skilled trade and tech workers.

Carmichael said it’s essential that schools expand students’ horizons and prepare a skilled new generation to meet the job demands of the future.

Explore the River Valley with the River Valley ATV Club

The River Valley ATV Club is located in Carleton County, and is a member of QuadNB. Our motto is to promote safe recreational ATV use while developing and maintaining a trail system in an environmentally responsible manner. Our club is located in Zone 7 of the Federation, in the beautiful St. John River Valley.

Our annual rally is scheduled for June 17, 2023. Meetings are 7 p.m. on last Tuesday of the month from March to Nov. at the Y’s Men Club on Connell Park Road, Woodstock

For more information: email info@rivervalleyatv.com ,visit rivervalleyatv.com or like us on Facebook: River Valley ATV Club Inc

Leigh Hunter, Technical Lead for McCain Foods shared information about Farms of the Future. (Jim Dumville photo)

Huguette Cyr of Potatoes N.B. talks to students. (Jim Dumville photo)

Carleton County Spring Show & Sale celebrates 70 years

Abby Hunter captures Grand Champion title, new auction record set

By Theresa Blackburn

It was a celebration of history and continued committment at the Carleton County Show and Sale at the Northern Carleton Civic Centre on April 10, 11, and 12.

History was made, as well, with young 4-H participant Owen Crandlemire breaking an auction record of $18 per pound, fetching a whopping $22,410 for his animal, which was purchased by Mountain View Packers, County Tractors and Machinery, and Maritime Case.

The average price per pound at auction was also a record, at $8.20.

Abby Hunter captured Grand Champion overall, Grand Champion for 4-H, 4-H Showman, and Champion Crossbreed.

Hunter’s animal was purchased by the Corey Group of Woodstock.

Black’s Cattle Co. was named reserve champion, and Champion, all other breeds. They also captured Champion Angus and Champion Best Pair. Their animals were bought at auction ny Bayview Kubota, NB Seed Growers, Hartland and Centreville ValuFoods, Carleton Co-op, Riverview Farms, Valley Refrigeration, and Aubrey Giberson.

In total, the auction raised $256,180.

Lane Findlater, who captured Reserve CHampion Hereford, and Reserve Champion 4-H Showman, was awarded the Remax Hartford Realty Scholarship.

Call (506)

How to age safely at home

Some of these tools could include the following:

CARING FOR SENIORS

By Shannon Fitzherbert

For many seniors, the main priority is to remain safely in their homes for as long as possible while maintaining their independence.

Sometimes to achieve this goal, seniors may require assistance from outside sources. We at Kindred Home Care aim to educate seniors on the resources and practices they can utilize to age safely at home.

Equipment Rentals: We can direct you on how to obtain necessary equipment such as; tub benches and chairs, grab bars for the toilet or tub, super poles, walkers, commode, raised toilet seat, canes, hospital beds, or over-bed tables

Tips: We can provide tips on environmental changes to make to prevent falls in injuries in your home Home Care Process: We can explain how home care works and guide you through the initial process of obtaining home care. We can provide information on the various funding options to assist financially.

What does Kindred Home Care offer?

There are some common misconceptions sur-

rounding home care. The most common is that you will lose your independence if you receive help. This, in fact, is quite the opposite. Our goal is to help you remain as independent as possible and to assist with tasks that could cause you injury or illness, thus allowing seniors to age at home safely for as long as possible. We provide every senior with a say in what they require assistance with and what the agency can or can not do.

Another misconception is that home care costs a lot of money. There are several funding options that an agency can help you explore. Some funding avenues can cover most or all of the cost of homecare.

You may worry about a stranger entering your home

because you feel uneasy.

Our caregivers undergo extensive training, first aid and have detailed background checks done. Our agency also strives to find the best match possible to ensure you are comfortable with the caregiver you have entering your home.

Home care can assist with some or all of the following tasks depending on the level of help you require

Light housekeeping, meal preparation, personal care, errands, medication management, and general companionship.

Shannon Fitzherbert has been the Care Coordinator for Kindred Home Care for 6 years. Her passion is helping match seniors with the best caregiver for their needs.

Anyone who attended the auction and has been a part of the Carleton County Spring Show and Sale gathered for a commemorative 70th anniversary alumni photo. (Leigha Jane Photography)

Abby Hunter captured overall Grand Champion and 4-H Champion. She’s pictured here with family and representatives from the Corey Group of Companies, who bought the animal at auction. (Leigha Jane Photography)

Celebrating Easter and first anniversary at Brighter Days Boutique Easter Bunny drops by to help Valley Food Bank mark important first anniversary

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

With a special guest to help kick off the Easter weekend, the Valley Food Bank’s Brighter Days Boutique marked its first anniversary Thursday, April 6.

Dozens of smiling and laughing children waited patiently to sit on the Easter Bunny’s lap and grab a bag of candy and chips. However, some younger ones demonstrated some wariness about the adultsized rabbit. Still, the Easter Bunny and VFB staff ensured the reluctant ones also went home with treats.

The Valley Food Bank and the Brighter Days Boutique welcomed a steady stream of visitors to search its well-stocked racks and shelves for $1 deals on quality clothing and household items. The boutique served cake, muffins, tea, coffee and children’s drinks throughout the day.

Funds raised through the boutique sales provide

additional funds for the food bank’s vital services.

“The demand is growing, with no sign of relief in sight,” said VFB Executive Director Monica Grant.

The numbers of a blackboard high on the wall above the table holding the coffee, cake and other items told the food bank’s story.

Between April 8, 2022, and April 6, 2023, the Valley Food Bank, which serves communities from Nackawic to River De Chute, fed 5,417 adults and 2,065 children.

It also noted the boutique sold more than 24,000 lbs of clothing in its first year of operation.

Grant explained their efforts are possible because of the ongoing support from the region’s residents and businesses.

“The community continues to show support,” she said, “but the need is always growing.”

Brighter Days Boutique manager Misty Brown said traffic to the second-hand store is also growing, although customers are still learning about it after a year. While situated on Woodstock’s busy Houlton Street, the location of the food bank and boutique at an angle a few metres off the street fails to catch the eye of passing motorists.

Grant said they are hoping to place additional signs closer to the street.

Brown said donations of quality used and new clothing keep the expansive showroom full to the point where they added racks to work areas next to the showroom.

One year after moving to its new massive location, the Valley Food Bank is almost fully operational. It has ample warehouse space, work areas, large and walk-in refrigeration units, conference rooms, classrooms and kitchen areas for cooking classes.

Brown said the food bank expanded its staff from four to six employees, each with plenty to do.

The Easter Bunny holds a basket of sweetness in the form of three-week-old Mateo Calhoun. (Jim Dumville photo)

No big changes in the works for Woodstock’s rural residents

consultant

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

T im and Kirsten Liv-

ingstone sought answers about the impact of municipal reform on their Strawberry Hills Farm in Pembroke when they attended the planning open house at the AYR Motor Centre in Woodstock on March 29.

“We were just worried how the rules would affect us,” said Tim.

Strawberry Hills Farm now lies within Ward 5 of Woodstock’s newly expanded community which became a reality on Jan. 1.

While concerns remain, the Livingstones left the open house more at ease than when they entered.

Kirsten said they wanted to ensure planning and zoning changes now under consideration would not hamper their business in the future.

Tim explained their successful business includes greenhouses and crops producing several types of vegetables. They will also soon add a chicken meat production facility.

He said the building permit for the chicken production operation got caught in the Jan. 1 changeover, but it was eventually approved.

The Livingstones wanted to avoid seeing the former town’s planning and zoning bylaws expand to the rural areas.

Jennifer Brown, an

associate with Dillon Consulting, advising the Woodstock Planning and Compliance Department, eased the Livingstone’s and other rural residents’ minds during the open house’s two-hour sessions held from 3 to 5 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m.

Brown said one of her key messages to rural Woodstock residents during the open houses and other communication efforts is that they’ll see few changes in landuse regulations.

“We’re using existing plans where possible,” she said.

She explained land use for a significant portion of the local service districts now encompassed by Wards 1, 2, 3 and 5 fall under the current Carleton County Rural Plan, which will see minimal change.

Brown said the Richmond LSD never had zoning, but Woodstock’s amended land planning and zoning bylaws would recognize the area’s history of agriculture and forestry.

She added the new bylaws would take in the current and historical land use.

“The rural character will be critically important,” Brown said.

Brown added the plan would grandfather in existing land use. It will also recognize landowners’ needs, allowing accessory building con-

struction if they don’t affect neighbours.

Certain wards, including the Jacksonville area, will allow some commercial clusters and businesses which fit comfortably in the rural character of Woodstock’s outlying areas. Brown said residents need not worry about significant development.

She said while rural residential would allow the development of an occasional subdivision and, even more rarely, the construction of multiunit residential buildings, such as duplexes or townhouses, planning would guard against urban sprawl.

“We have a critical need for housing, but not housing at all costs,” Brown said.

She said the focus of the March 29 open houses was gathering residents’ feedback, recommendations and concerns. As she said in earlier presentations to council, public input is a crucial part of planning.

Mayor Trina Jones, who, along with CAO Andrew Garnett and several council members, attended one or both the open sessions, echoed Brown’s view that communication is vital surrounding the expansion of the municipal plan.

Jones said the open houses helped allay the fears of some of the 60 or more people who at-

tended the March 29 sessions.

“I think they came in with one notion and walked out with another,” the mayor said.

Jones said the entire reform process proved confusing for many if not most, residents. She said many are still determining their ward or municipal boundary lines.

For example, she, Brown and others pointed to the confusion surrounding a tiny strip of the Debec LSD near Hodgdon Road, which falls in Woodstock, not Lakeland Ridges. Except for that small strip, the

entire village of Debec and most of the Debec LSD are part of Lakeland Ridges.

Jones said the open house is only part of the municipal planning factgathering process.

“At the end of the day, it’s a first step,” she said.

Brown said the information gathered at the open houses and by the survey and interactive maps would inform part of Dillon’s first report to council.

She described it as the “What We Heard” report.

The colourful Post-It notes on the information

boards, including “What is your vision for the future of Woodstock?” and “hot topics,” attested to the residents’ many viewpoints.

Brown said she would collect those notes and add them to what she heard in her conversations and online comments to help form her report to council.

“I’m glad to see them filling out those notes,” she said.

Residents could participate in the online survey until April 10 and can continue to view the online interactive map at mysocialpinpoint.ca

‘The rural character is critically important,’ stays

Tim and Kirsten Livingstone of Strawberry Hill Farm in Pembroke attended the open house on March 29 with concerns on planning and zoning amendments would affect farmers in rural Woodstock. (Jim Dumville photo)

Arts and Culture News from Western New Brunswick

Spinney Brothers bringing high-energy bluegrass to Woodstock Woodstock Rotary presents award-winning band at

McCain Community Theatre April 29

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Upper Valley bluegrass

fans are in for a treat on Saturday, April 29, as the Woodstock Rotary Club presents Canada’s International Award-winning bluegrass band, the Spinney Brothers, at the McCain Community Theatre at Woodstock High School.

Woodstock Rotarian and musician Gary Beatty said Allan and Rick Spinney from Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia, built a worldwide following over the past three decades, earning critical acclaim, multiple awards and a huge fan base.

Allan Spinney, on guitar and vocals and Rick Spinney, on banjo and vocals, debuted their band in 1991.

Beatty said the Spinney Brothers, considered Canada’s International Bluegrass Band, features a tight brother duet vocal style recognized for its energetic and distinctive sound. Long-time bandmates Gary Dalrymple on mandolin and Terry Mumford on bass complete the Spinney Brothers Bluegrass Band.

Over their long career, the Spinney Brothers released a dozen albums, including four successful releases with Mountain Fever Recordings, which propelled them to international recognition.

The brothers charted four number-one hits, several Eastern Canadian

Bluegrass Music Awards, and nominations for three IBMA Awards, including Emerging Artist and Song of the Year.

The band performed on several prestigious bluegrass stages, including Bill Monroe’s Bean Blossom Festival, Ralph Stanley’s Hills of Home Festival, Nashville’s Station Inn, and MerleFest.

After a two-year hiatus between 2017 and 2019 away from the gruelling tour schedule, the Spinney Brothers Bluegrass Band hit the road again.

Beatty said the brothers are excited to make Woodstock one of the stops on their current tour.

In a recent conversation, Spinney said, “We have always been grateful for all the opportunities that came our way and for all the faith countless people put in us; the promoters, DJs and, of course, the fans. Traditional bluegrass music is in our blood, and we are excited to have the opportunity to come to Woodstock.”

Beatty said tickets can now be purchased at Newnham & Slipp Guardian Pharmacy in downtown Woodstock, the AYR Motor Center in Woodstock, and Andrew & Laura McCain Library in Florenceville-Bristol.

Showtime is 7 p.m., Saturday, April 29. The doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Woodstock Rotary Club hosts successful

Spring Fling Event draws crowd and with local and regional bands after two years online

By Theresa Blackburn

For the first time since 2019, the Woodstock Rotary Club held their annual spring fundraiser in person.

While their COVID Kitchen Party events were very successful, the event organizer said it was exciting to bring the people back to the event.

Corey Clark is the chair of the Spring Fling commit-

tee.

“In total, we raised $38,000 during the event. The money will go into our coffers for upcoming projects,” Clark explained.

Clark and his committee felt the event went well, and the group received a lot of positive feedback.

The event included a dance with multiple acts, both local and regional,

and wine, beer, and spirits vendors.

“All vendors said they’d like to be a part of next year’s event, if we decide to continue with a taste venue again.

Their 50-50 draw was in support of Harvest House, and that organization received $1,735. The final installment of the Rotary’s donation to the Valley Food

Bank was presented to Food Bank representatives at the event.

The $150,000 donation completes their commitment to aiding the regional food bank and their new boutique.

Clark said the Rotary remains grateful for the community support they get for these kinds of initiatives.

Check out Bill Nighy’s Oscar-nominated performance

River Valley Film Circuit presents acclaimed drama, ‘Living’ on April 16 in Woodstock

RIVER VALLEY SUN

The Oscar-nominated drama, Living, will hit the silver screen in Woodstock this month.

River Valley Film Circuit presents a screening of the acclaimed drama at Atlantic Cinemas at 4 p.m. on Sunday, April 16.

The film circuit programmer Doug Dickinson described Living as a British remake of the 1952 Akira Kurosawa film Ikiru, inspired by the 1886 Leo Tolstoy novella The Death of Ivan Ilyich.

Dickinson said acclaimed actor Bill Nighy

stars in the lead role as a city planner who re-evaluates his life choices after receiving a terminal health diagnosis.

Living is directed by South African filmmaker Oliver Hermanus, with a script by renowned novelist and screenwriter Kazuo Ishiguro (Remains of the Day, Never Let Me Go). The film received Oscar nominations earlier this year for Nighy’s performance and Ishiguro’s screenplay.

Dickinson explained that review aggregator

Rotten Tomatoes has the film at a stellar 96 per cent average rating from critics, with a consensus that Living “sets a high bar for itself in setting out to remake a Kurosawa classic – and director Oliver Hermanus and star Bill Nighy clear it in triumphant fashion.”

Globe and Mail critic Barry Hertz noted in his positive review the film “should not work” but credited its success on “the magnificent talents of its leading man, Bill Nighy.”

In a review for ABC News, Peter Travers noted

Nighy “delivers a master class in acting.”

“Working in miniature to achieve major truths, this deeply human drama has the power to sneak up and knock you sideways,” said Travers.

Dickinson said Living first screened at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival. In addition to the Oscar nomination, Dickinson said, many other industry award groups, including the Golden Globes and Screen Actors Guild, recognized Nighy’s brilliant performance.

Looking ahead, Dickinson said, the River Valley Film Circuit will close out the spring season on Sunday, May 21, with a screening of the Korean

romantic thriller Decision to Leave. He said the circuit would return after a summer break with a new slate of films in the fall.

Local band Stinking Rich performed at the Woodstock Rotary’s Spring Fling Gala on March 25, 2019. (Theresa Blackburn photo)

After-hours clinic now open in Canterbury

Lakeland Ridges’ clinic open every Tuesday evening until June

RIVER VALLEY SUN

Under an agreement with the rural community, Dr. Debi O’Leary will see patients every Tuesday, from 5 to 8 p.m., at an office set up at the Canterbury Community Hall on Mill Street.

The clinic will allow O’Leary, and occasionally a resident doctor, to provide non-urgent healthcare needs on a threemonth trial basis.

Lakeland Ridges Mayor

Tanya Cloutier explained the clinic would operate every Tuesday for the next three months on a trial basis.

She said Dr. O’Leary or a resident doctor, if one

is working, would see patients on a first-come, firstservice basis.

Cloutier explained patients would need a valid Medicare card and they should bring a list of medications with dosages.

While the clinic will handle only non-urgent medical needs, it can treat several ailments, including, but limited to, minor upper respiratory infections, headaches, hypertension, joint pain/strains, minor lacerations and soft tissue injuries, uncomplicated urinary tract infections, Gynecological issues/PAP smears, STI screening, GI issues and abdominal pain,

Rashes/skin issues, refill of ongoing medications, uncomplicated mental health concerns. The clinic will direct acute or severe medical conditions to the nearest emergency room.

During the March 27 Lakeland Ridges council meeting, Cloutier asked council for approval to apply for available grants to help fund needed renovations for the clinic.

The mayor explained the renovations needed to build a waiting room and examining room could be readily utilized for other means should the clinic not continue beyond the trial period.

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Lakeland Ridges’ after-hours medical clinic in Canterbury is open every Tuesday from 5 to 8 p.m. Dr. Debi O’Leary will treat non-urgent medical needs on a first-come, firstserve basis. (Submitted photo)

Celebrating all things maple at Woodstock Farm Market Event includes special presentation recognizing

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The annual spring tradition celebrating the sweet success of maple production returned to the Woodstock Farm and Craft Market on Saturday, March 25.

The morning added a touch of history with the hand-carved wooden plaque presented to Laurie McLellan, recognizing McLellan Farm’s 40 years in the maple production business.

Farm Market president Renee Sullivan, whose husband Gary carved the plaque, presented it to Laurie following two hours devoted to maple delights and children.

Laurie, who served a seven-year stint as Farm Market president, and Roy McLellan have delivered the spring maple celebration for several years.

With the help of several family members, Laurie served the traditional snow toffee on the front verandah of the market. Children and a few members of the older crowd enjoyed the sweet treat, while the youngsters enjoyed games and chose goodies from

the treasure box featuring even more candy.

Renee Sullivan said the Woodstock Farm and Craft Market board, its members and customers wanted to make the surprise presentation to the McLellans in appreciation for their many years of service.

She added 2023 is a special year of the Farm Market, as it marks its 50th

anniversary. She said the market would mark the half-century anniversary later this year.

Former Woodstock Mayor Art Slipp and his wife Lynn were among the many taking the morning festivities. He said they visit the Farm Market regularly and make it a point to attend the maple fest and other special events.

Barb Sharp, Director of Tourism for the Western Valley, takes a bite of maple snow toffee. (Jim Dumville photo)

Members of the McLellan family gather around the plaque. From left, Marley McLellan, Lauren Graham, Sarah McLellan, Carol Trizna, Laurie McLellan and Evan Taylor. (Jim Dumville photo)

Oliver Haley enjoys traditional maple snow toffee made by pouring boiling maple syrup on snow and rolling it up in a popsicle stick. (Jim Dumville photo)

‘Don’t leave them behind; feed the growing mind’

NBCC class works to help feed young minds by feeding young bellies

By Vanessa Woodacre

If you were driving around Woodstock, N.B. recently, you might have seen a big yellow school bus parked by the NBCC campus or at the AYR Motor Centre on March 19 and 20. Perhaps you even saw a few people holding signs asking to drop off food items.

This spring, the Social Service Community Worker (SSCW) students at NBCC Woodstock have been engaged in various applied research projects in the Woodstock area, highlighting the skills they have learned over the past two years of their program.

Three NBCC Woodstock students, Lisa Riordon, Whitney Harnum-McIntosh, and Amelia Tweedie, have been planning their “Stuff a Bus” Campaign to help combat food insecurity.

Their project supports the Townsview Home and School Association’s Backpack Program.

“The best part about this process for me would have to be seeing the children of our small rural community come out and support Stuff-A-Bus with smiles. It is such a great feeling to give back to our community, and I hope this is the start of a new beginning,” said student Amelia Tweedie.

The campaign filled 14 bus seats and collected $300 in donations.

“We were inspired to investigate food insecurity as the rise in food costs had led to more families struggling, which can affect a child’s development. We are looking at continuing our Stuff-A-Bus for other schools in our area,” said student Lisa

Riordon.

“As SSCW, we need to come together and spread the word about community development,” said student Whitney Harnum-McIntosh. “Removing barriers to our community professionally and personally allow people to flourish and live life to their fullest. Don’t leave them behind; feed the growing mind,” she added.

This event would not have been successful without the help of the community.

Students want to thank many for their generosity, including Mike Hemphill, the ASDW schoolboard, the NBCC Woodstock campus, the NBCC Student Union, the AYR Motor Centre, and everyone who donated.

This “Stuff a Bus” Team could soon support a school near you!

NBCC students NBCC Students, Lisa Riordon, Amelia Tweedie, Whitney Harnum- McIntosh with bus driver Mike Hemphill, ready to take donations for the Townsview Backpack program. (Photo submitted)

Bentia Mcintosh-Harnum, Barb McIntosh, Ellie McIntosh, and Maddyson Kennedy at the AYR Motor Centre during the Stuff a Bus event. (Photo submitted)

RVS SUNSHINE KID

SUNSHINE SMILES: Meet Levi Stewart of Debec, who turns four-years-old this month. Happy Birthday, Levi! This happy guy is an animal lover who enjoys puppy dogs, bugs, mud puddles, blocks, and dinosaurs. He is the son of Emily and Craig Stewart, and little brother to Olive and Ivy. (Submitted)

River Valley Sunshine Kids are sponsored by Angie’s Little Peeps Early Learning & Childcare Centre in Woodstock. Look them up on Facebook.

“A child’s life is like a piece of paper on which every person leaves a mark.”

Submit your sunshine kid or kids photos to theresa@rivervalleysun.ca

Sharing Stories of Inclusion, Diversity, and Community

Warmer, longer days means getting a head-start on season

are better protection against frost, but ensure the covers don’t touch tender leaves.

WEEDS, SEEDS & GARDEN DEEDS

By Michelle Corcoran

Advantage for GardensRow Covers

Protect your early plants, keep pests away and give you a head start on the season. Covers can be light or heavy-weight plastic/ polypropylene or polyester material.

Make supports out of wood or PVC pipe (I use ½-inch PVC, 8-foot lengths. They bend easily). Lightweight covers let in 80 per cent or more of sun and rain but keep out flying insects.

Heavier weight covers

You can also get SHADE row covers, a heavy polyester mesh that allows rain in (see the picture from my garden) but only allows in about 50-60 per cent of sun.

Set up when the ground is ready to be worked, but it may still be cool (10 0C) nights. Be sure to check on plants weekly to make certain pests/bugs haven’t invaded and gobbled up your crop!

Floating lightweight row cover loosely laid just over plants (with rocks or brick to keep them in place) can help keep pests away. Use after the risk of frost is gone, as it is too thin to protect from frost damage. Yes – you still need to clean up your garden in April/ May…

– Disinfect pots, tools, bird feeders, and bird-

NACKAWICMILLVILLE COMMUNITY NEWS

By Julie Stone

Heritage Fair

Anglophone West School District Heritage Fair will be held on May 3 at NBCC Woodstock. Over 20 schools in ASDW will be represented, with 60-plus students showcasing their Heritage Projects.

The projects celebrate and promote the diversity of New Brunswick and Canadian Culture through research. The public is welcome to visit from 9 a.m. to noon, when numerous organizations will have displays showcasing their historical significance. See what the students and the cultural representatives have to show and tell. You might be pleasantly surprised at what you can learn.

Mall Boxes

The Nackawic Area Wellness Committee would like to congratulate the winners of the springthemed boxes—first prize: Gym Girls, second prize:

baths (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 consistently exceed 10°C at night before cleaning out debris.

It’s time to plant indoors for your outdoor crop… a heat mat and full spectrum grow lights can give an extra advantage. Plant anything that says to start indoors 6-8 weeks before

the last frost.

– Tomatoes, peppers, lettuce, cabbages, broccoli, cauliflower

– Annual flowers (cosmos, zinnias, marigolds, herbs, etc.)

– Even rooting your own slips from plants like geraniums, ivy, succulents, and coleus can save cost

– Stay connected and informed about local garden events.

– Check out Florenceville Garden Club on Facebook

– Upcoming Garden Club events (more details posted on the Facebook page):

– Share and Learn Event: May 1 –– Interesting bits shared about local resources, special plants, and care.

– Annual Plant Auction June 5 (rain/ heat date June 12) 6 — 8 p.m. Spring dividing and clean-out can create extras to share. Bring

annuals, perennials (welllabelled), and garden art for auction. Funds raised go towards community garden projects.

– Summer 2023 – Garden Tour of local area gardens (stay tuned for more info)

Heritage fair, mall box winner, volunteer of the month

Nackawic Post Office and third prize: Scotia Bank.

Thanks to all participants, judges and prize donors, as with their support, this event is successful.

Volunteer of the Month

The Nackawic & Area Wellness Committee is pleased to announce the “Volunteer of the Month” for April. We want to thank AMY CRONKHITE for giving back to the community. Her kindness has been very much appreciated. Please keep the votes coming in, as there are many volunteers we would like to recognize. Submit a ballad in the Volunteer Box at The Gathering Place or by email – annkenmoore@ gmail.com.

Reeves off to France

Karen (Lawson) Reeves will be going to Amiens, France, in August to represent Canada in a Christian Life Community Conference held every five years. Karen will be joined by a delegate from British Columbia and a Jesuit Priest who will be part of planning activities for the next five years of their mission.

Upon her return, Karen will be required to report back to the National body and to make recommendations based on her work at the conference. Karen explains three pillars of their work, Community, Spiritu-

ality and Mission.

Their mandate is to serve and support the poor and marginalized citizens of the world. The Christian Life Community is 450 years old and is active in over 60 countries.

Karen grew up in Nackawic, graduated from Nackawic High School, and studied at Mount Saint Vincent University in the Bachelor of Arts Program.

During her second year, she went to the Universite de la France Comte in Besancon, France, where she majored in French and minored in Spanish.

After graduation, Karen worked for the New Brunswick Prescription Drug Program, which inspired her to become a pharmacist. She attended Dalhousie University, where she took a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacology. She then worked at the hospital in Fredericton and filled in as Pharmacist at Ryan’s Drug Store in Nackawic.

Karen moved to Toronto around 2001 and worked for Proctor and Gamble in the Adverse Drug Reaction Reporting office. She was also involved in collecting medical information for the company.

Next, she was off to Thunder Bay, where she worked in the hospital for two years. During these years, Karen married, and

she and her husband started planning their future.

Suddenly, in 2003, Karen and her husband had to move back to New Brunswick because of Karen’s serious heart problem, which required two years of operations and healing time.

When well enough, Karen started working as a part-time pharmacist at Ryan’s Pharmacy in Nackawic and the Medicine Shop in the Fredericton Co-op Store. In 2007, Karen began working as a full-time pharmacist at Ryan’s, where she still works.

Nackawic is pleased to have such a hard-working, spiritual, community-minded and dedicated healthcare professional in the area. We wish her all the best as she travels back to France to continue her work in the Christian Life Community movement.

Nackawic-Millville Busy

If you wish for something to do, look no further. The new Entity 71 is hopping with activities you might enjoy. If you are interested and don’t have a drive, call Gail at 506-4251200 or Julie at 506-5758312, and we will try to hook you up with someone else who is going.

Every second Thursday of the Month, the Adult Book Club meets at the Nackawic Public Library at

2 p.m.

Every second Thursday of the month at 7 p.m., there is Radio Bingo at the Millville Legion.

Every Wednesday at 3 p.m., there is STEAM, a science program for Elementary school-aged children at the Public Library in Nackawic.

Every second Saturday of the month, Kids Connect is held from noon to 2 p.m. at the Nackawic Lion’s Centre.

For card lovers, 45’s are played every Thursday at 1 p.m. at the Prince Wil-

liam Community Hall.

For those who like an early start, around 8 a.m., take in Saturday breakfast options throughout the month.

First Saturday: Northampton Community Hall

Second Saturday: Nackawic Lion’s Centre

Fourth Saturday: Millville Legion

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

Julie Stone is an educator, advocate, and inclusion consultant who lives and volunteers in the municipality of Nackawic-Millville.

Michelle’s veggie garden with PVC row cover supports and the shade cover on the ground. She raises and lowers it with the heat scorch in the summer.

Mall box winner. (Submitted)

Wallace Street rezoning heads to council... again Businessman’s hopes to relocate to undeveloped land depends on reaching agreement

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

AWoodstock business-

man’s request to rezone a property at the end of Wallace Street will head to council for the second time.

Woodstock’s Planning Advisory Committee (PAC) debated the request for the second time on Monday, March 20. And for the second time, they sent it to council with recommendations.

Jason Cox, the owner of Cover-Tech, requested the rezoning last September to clear the way for his purchase of the property to relocate his business. Last fall, the PAC recommended the rezoning with restrictions, but council determined the request required further study.

Following public hearings by PAC and council last fall, the former Woodstock council recommended the process begin again. In the meantime, town officials would seek details from the municipal plan, including long-term plans for the large tract

of underdeveloped land stretching east of the Trans Canada Highway between Wallace Street, off Houlton Street, and Beardsley Road.

The second process began again during a PAC meeting held at noon on March 20.

Cox and Wallace Street residents attended the public meeting with PAC members.

Emily Colborne, a planning consultant with Dillon Consulting, joined remotely to explain PAC’s responsibilities and the legal requirements to rezone the property from rural resource to light industrial.

Woodstock CAO Andrew Garnett also attended the meeting remotely.

As they had in the first attempt to rezone the property, residents from the two homes on Wallace Street raised concerns about the proposed business’s impact on the already deteriorating street. They made it clear that with proper upgrades to the street, they

did not oppose the business.

In her presentation to PAC, Colburne described the location of the approximately 23-acre lot in question.

Wallace Street — a dead-end, partly paved street — sits north of the property. The Calvary Church sits at the end of Wallace Street, which is also home to two residential houses.

The Trans Canada Highway sits immediately to the west of the property. Otherwise, the property is surrounded by undeveloped green, and wooded land zoned as rural resources.

A portion of the property is zoned as environmentally protected, surrounding a brook which runs diagonally across undeveloped areas. Cox told the River Valley Sun his construction plans would not encroach on the protected areas.

Based on Colburne’s suggestion, PAC voted to recommend rezoning to

council under strict and detailed conditions.

PAC approved rezoning the property from Rural Resource to Light Industrial to allow the construction of a retail business and warehouse once the owner and town resolve strict conditions.

Cox must confirm he established a legal easement over a town-owned property for a driveway to his business. It also must build the driveway at his expense to the satisfaction of Woodstock’s Director of Public Works and Utility.

The property owner must reach an agreement with the town to design and

upgrade Wallace Street. He also must meet Environmental Protection landuse requirements.

Before passing the motion to move the rezoning request to council, the PAC asked Cox if he wanted to proceed.

The business owner agreed, noting he expected to be able to work with town officials to reach agreements on conditions.

“We’re talking about upgrades,” he said. “I don’t know what that entails.”

Garnett explained the PAC’s stated conditions allow the process to move forward. He said Cox would want to discuss his

RCMP warn public of cryptocurrency scam Police

say Financial Crime Unit investigating several scam reports

RIVER VALLEY SUN

The New Brunswick RCMP warned New Brunswickers on April 3 that they may be the target of a potential investment scam involving cryptocurrency.

The release explained that in recent months, the New Brunswick RCMP’s Financial Crime Unit had investigated several reports of an investment scam involving cryptocurrency in which victims have sustained significant money losses.

Under the scam, the RCMP said, fraudsters contact victims by phone or text message, offering an opportunity to invest in cryptocurrency and promising a high rate of return.

Once the victim starts to transfer money, the fraudster entices them to continue to invest more through repeated communication.

The RCMP said the scam might even allow the victim to withdraw small amounts of their investment.

Once the victim asks for a more significant withdrawal, they are told to pay tax on their investment balance to have the funds released.

Once the victim sends the tax payment, they are told they will receive their money within 24 hours.

After this, the scammers make more excuses to convince the victim to send additional funds

to the fraudster to release their investment.

Police said this would continue until the victim runs out of money or refuses to send more, at which point the fraudster stops all communication, and the victim never receives their withdrawal.

The RCMP release offered suggestions to help protect the public to protect themselves from investment scams:

— Get a second opinion from a trusted friend, lawyer or accountant.

— Know that timelimited or high-pressure offers are signs of a scam.

— Do your own research, and don’t trust website links sent to you

by the person asking you to invest.

— Visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s website for more information on current frauds and scams.

The RCMP asks any victim of an investment scam, or any type of scam, to contact their local police department to file a report.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222TIPS (8477). You can also share information by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by using the Secure Web Tips service at www.crimenb.ca.

The RCMP said the investigation is ongoing.

plans with Director of Public Works and Utility Greg Stokes and other town officials.

Following the meeting, Cox told the River Valley Sun he understands he has a role in securing access to his business and helping build a driveway, but he’s not interested in helping build town streets.

During the meeting, Garnett acknowledged Wallace Street needs significant upgrades regardless of the outcome of Cox’s plans.

Garnett said the rezoning request would come before council at a future date.

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S STUDIO STARS S MEET STUDIO STAR MARY

Mary and I joke that Pilates is her therapy, private sessions for my undivided attention and group classes for the laughter :) I didn’t know this right away but Mary told me she came to the studio feeling old and a little broken after some health hurdles. Pilates changed her laboured breathing and improved the way she feels about all the things her body CAN do. She recently got two thumbs up from her doctor and a compliment about looking like an aunt not a grandma! Most importantly, she can carry around her growing grandchildren with ease, lucky too because she has many!

WHAT MARY SAYS: “I KNOW I’ll feel better after Pilates so even on my dragging days I go.”

Wallace Street is a dead-end partly paved street running from Houlton Street to the Calvary United Pentecostal Church near the Trans Canada Highway. (Jim Dumville photo)

THE BEST MEDICINE

By Shelly Hubbert

National Volunteer Week - Hospital volunteers make a difference

valuable contributions volunteers make to enhance patient and family experiences at the Upper River Valley Hospital (URVH). These contributions provide positive impacts on the people in our community.

the day of patients by delivering 460 items of muchanticipated mail, parcels, and cheerful flowers.

National

Volunteer Week 2023 is from April 16 to 22. Horizon Health Network would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge the many

In 2022, some of the incredible contributions from our URVH volunteers included warmly greeting 7,500 patients and visitors and helping them navigate their way in the hospital, easing their stress to get to an appointment on time.

They also brightened

RIVERSIDE RAMBLINGS

By Carolyn Brown

This week, I have included photo of two residents we are so proud to have living in our home. I want you to meet Donnie Cluff and Muriel Hartley.

There is nothing quite like seeing Donnie’s eyes light up when he picks up the fiddle and starts to play. Let me say it is not just music to his ears but to ours as well.

Donnie got his first fiddle when he was 13, ordered from Eaton’s catalogue. He spent countless hours listening to Don Messer on the radio, his idol, and memorizing the tunes he was playing.

“We are thrilled to have our Good Night program back,” says Shelly Hubbert, Volunteer Coordinator. “Our volunteers provide comfort and reassurance to patients by offering a warm blanket, playing a game of cards, or simply talking.

“Last year, over 22 new volunteers signed up to help our patients. As we expand and grow our programs, we thank our vol-

unteers for making a difference in the lives of our patients and encourage new volunteers to join our team.”

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer to enhance patient and family experience, please contact Shelly Hubbert at shelly.hubbert@horizonnb.ca or 506-375-2541.

MacLeod Riverside Court: How lucky we are!

He played while he grew up on the family farm and continued over a lifetime while working in the family business after they gave up the farm.

Donnie has a lovely bass voice and enjoyed singing in his church choir and playing the saxophone in a band. He is a long-standing member of the Tuesday Night Fiddlers. Donnie also belonged to the NB Fiddle Orchestra and joined them in Ottawa to play in front of the Parliament buildings on Canada Day a few times.

He particularly enjoyed playing in Fiddle Doos, for benefits and for seniors. But then, what he calls the highlight of his life, was his induction to the NB Country Music Hall of Fame in 1999. We can’t think of a more deserving person to be honored in such a way, and we feel privileged to have him with us in “the big yellow house.”

Muriel Hartley is so excited to have her piano back. When she first

came to Riverside Court a few years ago, the piano didn’t come with her. But it is here now, and what joy it is to stand in the hallway and hear her play.

When I chatted with Muriel about her music, she told me her first lessons and experience were with a pump organ in her home as a child. In high school, she played

the piano and took more lessons learning to read music.

Muriel’s teaching career allowed her to be involved with music in the school system, which she loved. As a child, she also remembers playing the organ in Sunday School at the Tracey Mills Church. As the years flew by with marriage and children, she

found herself the organist at the church for close to 40 years.

Music is a gift she has cherished. She was told her great-grandfather sang bass in a choir at the same church.

Muriel fondly shared how she and her husband went piano shopping at Jones Music Store in Woodstock and bought the piano she still

has.

Muriel said there was a less expensive one she would take, but her husband insisted on the more expensive one. Indeed, it has served her well, and she is thrilled to have it with her again as we are!

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

Shelly Hubbert is a Horizon Health Volunteer Resources Coordinator at the Upper River Valley Hospital in Waterville.

Goodnight student volunteers pose with items they may give away to patients during a friendly visit. From left, Halle Richardson, Vir Singh Ranger, Ajla Tuka, Phoebe Webster Snoad, Sarah Lagarde, and Markie McLaughlin. (Submitted)

Donnie Cluff and Muriel Hartley preform regularly for MacLeod Riverside Court residents. (Carolyn Brown photo)

COURT NEWS

A roundup of cases processed through Woodstock Provincial Court

By Judy Cole-Underhill

60 days in jail for Lower Brighton woman

Erica Ann Trecartin, 28, of Lower Brighton, was sentenced on April 11 to a total of 60 days in jail after being found guilty on three charges laid by RCMP.

Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean also placed her on probation for 18 months and prohibited her from driving for six months. She was ordered to seek counseling for drug and alcohol abuse, employment counseling, and counseling for parenting. Trecartin had a prior criminal record.

While reading from her pre-sentence report, Judge McLean said it was hard not to feel empathy for the accused because of her extremely difficult childhood. As an adult, she was often transient and on drugs, while her peers were pro-criminal. Eventually, Trecartin’s lifestyle led to her losing custody of her children.

She was pregnant when she appeared in court on Tuesday. The court heard she was sober, had a permanent address in Fredericton, and was doing better because she intended to have a healthy pregnancy and keep her unborn child.

“She’s had a hard life and has equally lived hard,” Judge McLean said during sentencing. “I wish better things and a better life for this woman.”

Trecartin was charged with possession of stolen property, flight from police, dangerous driving, and possession of a firearm without a license following a March 16, 2020, incident involving a stolen car in Woodstock.

After finding the stolen vehicle abandoned on Strong Road, RCMP apprehended Trecartin and another individual at Richmond Corner. Police followed footprints in the snow and found Trecartin and a man hiding up a tree in the woods.

Trecartin pleaded not guilty and represented herself during her trial in July 2022. She was found not guilty of dangerous driving but guilty on the three remaining charges.

Woodstock Police also laid three new charges against her. Trecartin was charged with dangerous driving, failing to stop for police, driving while suspended, and breach of probation for an incident on Nov. 3,

2022, in Woodstock. She returns to court for plea on those charges on May 2 at 11 a.m.

Two released with ankle bracelet

Riley Cowper, 19, of Limestone, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on April 5 for a bail hearing and was released with strict conditions, including wearing an electronic monitoring device attached to his ankle. He returns to court on May 3 at 9:30 a.m. for plea on several charges laid by RCMP.

Cowper appeared in provincial court in custody on March 30 and was remanded. He was charged by RCMP with sexual assault involving a female victim, unlawful confinement, and breach of probation, in connection with an incident on March 26 at Limestone.

Judge Sebastian Michaud released Cowper with an order to reside at a residence in Limestone and follow a curfew from midnight to 6 a.m. He must have no drugs, firearms, or weapons in his possession. He is also prohibited from contacting a co-accused, Jacob Jinson, or the female complainant in the case.

Cowper also faces sentencing for another incident at Limestone last year. He was charged by RCMP with assault with a weapon (a hammer and tire iron) involving another man on March 23, 2022. Cowper changed his plea to guilty at an earlier court appearance and a sentencing date was set for May 3.

Jacob Jinson, 24, of Kilmarnock, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on April 3. He was charged with sexual assault involving a female victim, unlawful confinement, and breach of probation concerning the same incident on March 26 at Limestone.

Jinson was also released with strict conditions, including wearing an electronic monitoring device attached to his ankle. He must also follow a curfew and reside at a residence in Oakland. Jinson will return to court for plea on April 25 at 9:30 a.m. Meductic man handed three years in prison

James Fowler, 49, of Meductic, was sentenced on March 20 to three years in federal prison, minus time served, for sexually assaulting a woman in her home in Hartland.

Fowler was charged by RCMP with indictable

sexual assault in connection with the incident on March 22, 2020. He was found guilty after trial in December and remanded into custody for sentencing.

In pronouncing sentence, Judge Kelly Winchester noted Fowler had a lengthy prior criminal record, including one previous sexual offense in 2017. She imposed a lifetime registration to the national sex offender list and ordered Fowler to also register with the federal DNA database.

“Sexual assaults are serious acts of violence,” Judge Winchester said. “The facts before me call out for a penitentiary term.”

During the trial, the court heard Fowler went to the woman’s home late one evening to buy some tires she posted for sale online. They exchanged text messages beforehand and he arrived at her residence around 10:30 p.m. She answered the door wearing a bathrobe.

They talked in the kitchen and when Fowler made a pass, the victim told him “sex was not happening.” The woman testified Fowler forcibly led her to the bedroom and pulled her down on the bed, telling her to remove her underwear. They had sexual contact and Fowler left. Her mother later called the police.

In December, Fowler wept with emotion upon hearing the guilty verdict after his trial. On Monday, he sat quietly in the courtroom and kept his head down while listening to final submissions. He stood to address the court before hearing his sentence.

“I want to put this nightmare behind me,” Fowler said. “I have a family to look after and I just want to move on with my life. I leave it with the court to make the right decision.”

Fowler told the judge both he and his family had suffered from the aftermath of his arrest and conviction. He was grateful for the love and support of his fiancé and said they planned to be married soon.

A pre-sentence report revealed Fowler deals with health issues including diabetes and also suffers from anxiety, leaving him unable to work since 2016.

Crown Prosecutor Brian Munn recommended a federal prison sentence of four to five years for the accused. He stressed the sexual assault occurred in the victim’s home, leaving her with emotional and

psychological scars, while Fowler expressed no remorse for his actions.

“Just because we can’t see cuts and bruises does not mean the violence is not there,” Munn told the court. “By its inherent nature, sexual assault is violent.”

Munn said the woman did not communicate consent to Fowler, yet all kinds of sexual activity occurred during her encounter with him.

Defence Counsel Michael Young said his client continues to maintain his innocence, arguing the victim “acquiesced” to engaging in sexual acts with Fowler. The defence lawyer explained there was no force, physical violence, or threats involved.

“He was willfully blind (about consent) and she acquiesced,” Young said. “There was no intercourse in this case. If there was, it would move the scale along a little further.”

In reaching her decision, Judge Winchester said “the effect on the sexual integrity of the victim is the same no matter if intercourse does not occur.” The judge also emphasized any person should be able to feel safe in the sanctity of their own home.

Young requested a lighter sentence of one to two years in jail with time served, noting Fowler was remanded for nine days after the incident and put on house arrest for eight months before his trial. Fowler was then remanded back to jail in December to await sentencing.

The defence is expected to appeal Fowler’s conviction for sexual assault to the New Brunswick Court of Appeal.

Fowler also faced a new charge. The court heard he was already listed with the national sex offender registry and was charged with failing to report his address or whereabouts to the registry. He pleaded not guilty and a trial date was set for Aug. 11 at 1:30 p.m. Attack in Juniper

leads to prison sentence

An Ontario man has been sentenced to four and a half years in federal prison, minus time served, for attacking a woman with a knife in Juniper last summer.

Quincy Gosse, 45, of no fixed address, appeared in provincial court in custody by video for sentencing on March 16. In addition to a prison term, Associ-

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

ate Chief Judge Brian

C. McLean also ordered Gosse to register with the federal DNA database. He was prohibited from having weapons or firearms in his possession and must have no contact with the female victim involved.

Gosse pleaded guilty to aggravated assault causing bodily harm, possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace (a knife), and breach of an undertaking following an incident on June 4, 2022, at a residence in Juniper. Two other charges were withdrawn by the crown.

“It was a horrifically violent assault on an intimate partner causing significant injuries,” Judge McLean said during sentencing.

The court heard Gosse entered the victim’s residence when he was ordered to have no contact with her. The woman was in the kitchen at the time and as she closed the refrigerator, she turned and saw him with a knife. He grabbed her by the hair and cut her neck.

They began to wrestle over the knife and she suffered another cut to her thumb. Gosse also had a cut to his arm. He let her go and she bolted from the house. She ran for help but her neighbours were not home. Gosse followed her outside and as she went to her vehicle, he pinned her against a tire while still holding a knife.

Her neighbours arrived home. They heard the woman screaming and saw Gosse attacking her. They called police and Gosse fled on foot. The woman was taken to hospital for treatment of a cut to her neck and thumb. Medical evidence revealed the cut on her neck was only millimeters from the jugular vein. She required several stitches for both injuries.

The RCMP arrived and found blood smeared on the hood of a vehicle, on the front door, and a pool of blood on the floor inside the house. Two knives were also found. A police dog was used to search the area for Gosse. He was later found by police hiding inside a closet at the victim’s residence after she had gone to the hospital.

Gosse also pleaded guilty to assault, uttering threats, and mischief causing property damage to her television for another incident at the same residence on April 12, 2022. He received an additional 15

days in jail for that offense. Gosse was highly intoxicated during both incidents and had little recollection of his actions. Defense Counsel Alex Pate described the accused as a chronic alcoholic for years and getting arrested was a “huge wakeup call that probably saved his life.” Gosse plans to move back to Ontario to be close to his family after his release. He had an unrelated prior criminal record.

Suspended sentence, probation

Joyce Boehler, 92, of Richmond Corner, appeared in provincial court for sentencing on March 15. She received a suspended sentence and 12 months of probation.

Boehler was found guilty after trial on a mischief charge laid by RCMP. Judge Sebastian Michaud handed down his verdict in provincial court on Dec. 16, 2022.

Boehler was charged with committing mischief by interfering with her neighbours’ lawful use and enjoyment of their property in connection with an incident on June 28, 2021, at Richmond Corner.

Her daughter, Laura Lee Boehler, 64, of Richmond Corner, is also facing numerous charges in relation to the same ongoing dispute with their neighbours. Neqotkuk man disputes medical report

A Neqotkuk man, who was injured at the Upper River Valley Hospital in Waterville in February, refused to accept the findings of a medical report during his court appearance on March 15.

Raymond Sockabasin, 34, of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation), appeared in provincial court in custody by video following a 30-day mental health assessment at the Restigouche hospital.

He was charged by RCMP with assaulting a police officer, committing mischief causing property damage to an ambulance bay window, and resisting arrest following the incident at the Waterville hospital on Feb. 8.

Sockabasin was taken to the Waterville hospital for a mental health check. An altercation occurred on site and he had to be tasered. Sockabasin then smashed out an ambulance bay window and fled on foot in his underwear. He was “bleedSee COURT on pg. 30

COURT cont’d

ing heavily” and ran to the highway where he began flagging down traffic. He was found lying on the ground nearby.

On March 15, the court heard Sockabasin was found fit to stand trial, but his medical report showed “a defence of not criminally responsible was likely available to him.”

Sockabasin told Judge Sebastian Michaud he disputed the findings of the report. He pleaded not guilty to all charges and said he wanted to proceed to trial. A trial date was set for June 19 at 9:30 a.m. He waived his bail hearing and remains in custody. He returns to court for monitoring about his trial on April 18.

Sockabasin was also charged by RCMP with two counts of assaulting a police officer, resisting arrest, committing mischief causing property damage to a police vehicle, and possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace (two wooden sticks) following another incident on Jan. 24 at Neqotkuk.

Sockabasin was arrested on Jan. 25 and held in custody for a bail hearing on Jan. 30. He was released with conditions and then landed back in custody a week later.

45 days in jail for impaired driving

Brian Higgs, 71, of East Grand Lake, was sentenced to 45 days in jail on April 4 after pleading guilty to impaired driving.

Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean also placed Higgs on probation for six months and prohibited him from driving for two years.

Higgs was charged by RCMP following a singlevehicle accident on Dec. 5, 2022, near North Lake. The court heard his truck left the highway and went into a ditch where it struck a power pole.

Police found the accused inside his vehicle with a half bottle of vodka on the passenger seat. His blood alcohol reading was nearly three times the legal limit. A pedestrian was forced to jump out of the way just before Higgs’ truck left the road.

Higgs apologized to the court for his “thoughtless, inexcusable act,” admitting he was drunk behind the wheel and was grateful no one was hurt. Higgs told the court he was an alcoholic but had been sober since the accident. He said he now participates in counseling and meetings with Alcoholics Anonymous and is waiting to enter a re-

habilitation program.

“I’m trying to address my problem,” Higgs said before being escorted to jail by sheriffs.

In November, Higgs was fined $2,000 after pleading guilty to another impaired driving offense. He was charged by RCMP in connection with a July 28, 2021, incident at North Lake. Higgs was also prohibited from driving for 12 months.

Sentencing reserved for Rockland man

Samuel Dean Walton, 38, of Rockland, will appear in provincial court on May 2 at 1:30 p.m. for a decision on his sentence for impaired driving. He was in court for sentencing on April 4 when Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean reserved his decision until the new date.

Walton was charged by Woodstock Police in connection with an incident on July 14, 2022, in Woodstock. The court heard police received two separate reports about an impaired driver behind the wheel of a grey Honda Civic. One witness reported seeing the vehicle traveling on the wrong side of the highway and almost hitting a sign on Connell Street near the Canadian Tire Store.

Another witness saw the same vehicle sideswipe a camper along Connell Park Road. Police responded and spotted Walton near a campsite at the Connell Park Campground. They found him highly intoxicated behind the wheel of a damaged Honda Civic.

Crown Prosecutor Bronwyn Mooney recommended 60 days in jail for the accused along with a one-year driving prohibition. She noted at the time of his arrest Walton’s blood alcohol reading was three times the legal limit. He had no prior criminal record.

Defence Counsel Peter Hyslop asked the judge to consider doubling the hefty fine for impaired driving, followed by a period of probation for his client. Hyslop said Walton had been sober since the incident, attends counseling, and recently completed a rehabilitation program. He also had a positive presentence report and works as a security guard.

The defence lawyer stressed Walton was a community-minded citizen who continues to have the support of his family and the community he serves. Several letters containing character references were submitted to the court on Walton’s behalf.

“I do take full responsi-

bility,” Walton told the court. “I know I did wrong. I’ve worked every day since to make changes. I’m very sorry for what I did.”

Newburg man to stand trial

Jeffrey Richard Bull, 44, of Newburg, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on March 24 to confirm dates for his trial after pleading not guilty to multiple charges laid by RCMP.

Bull will stand trial on June 22 at 9:30 a.m., Aug. 28 at 9:30 a.m., Sept. 7 at 9:30 a.m., and Sept. 8 at 9:30 a.m.

He appeared in court in custody on Feb. 7 and waived his bail. He was arrested by RCMP following an incident on Feb. 6 in Newburg. He was charged with breaching his release order by failing to comply with house arrest and by violating a no-contact order involving a female.

Bull also appeared in provincial court in custody in January for a bail hearing and was released with strict conditions, including wearing an electronic monitoring device attached to his ankle. He was later brought back into custody.

Bull was arrested following a traffic stop on the morning of Jan. 14 on the Grafton Bridge.

He was charged by Woodstock Police with possession of a stolen vehicle (a 2008 GMC Canyon), possession of stolen firearms (two shotguns and a rifle), being an occupant of a vehicle knowing it carried a firearm, improper storage of firearms, possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace, breach of a release order and breach of probation.

Bull also appeared in court in custody on Jan. 4 and was remanded for a bail hearing and later released with conditions. He was charged by RCMP with indictable breach of probation, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a firearm without a license (a 16-gauge shotgun), possession of a prohibited weapon (brass knuckles), possession of stolen property (a 2022 Toyota Tacoma), and improper storage of a firearm. All of those charges stem from an incident in Debec on Jan. 3. He was also charged with theft of a motor vehicle for an earlier incident in Howard Brook.

Dugan Road man facing more jail time

A Dugan Road man could be facing several more months in jail for engaging in a drug-fuelled rampage through the Debec area last summer.

Joseph Lorne McKinney, 35, appeared in provincial court in custody for sentencing on March 28 after pleading guilty to 15 charges laid by RCMP. He has been in custody since his arrest.

After hearing the evidence, Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean reserved his decision on sentence until April 13 at 1:30 p.m.

Crown Prosecutor Bronwyn Mooney recommended McKinney spend 18 to 24 months in jail, minus time served, followed by probation. She also requested he receives an order to register with the federal DNA database, a prohibition on firearms, and a one-year driving prohibition.

McKinney pleaded guilty to break, enter, and theft at a garage in Debec on May 10, 2022. Another charge of possession of stolen property (a lawnmower) was withdrawn by the crown. He also pleaded guilty to two counts of breach of a release order on Aug. 23, 2022, in Woodstock and on Dec. 3, 2022, at Dugan Road.

McKinney also pleaded guilty to 11 other charges laid by RCMP following a police chase between Debec and Benton on July 27, 2022.

He was charged with flight from police, dangerous driving, resisting arrest, assaulting a police officer, possession of stolen property, two counts of theft of a motor vehicle, committing mischief causing property damage, break and enter at the Paintball Club on Dugan Road, theft of alcohol from the Debec Store, and assaulting an on-duty police dog. One other charge was withdrawn by the crown.

Mooney requested McKinney pay $1,000 restitution for the theft of equipment at the Paintball Club and $80 for the stolen alcohol at the Debec Store. The crown prosecutor said the accused had the whole community on alert during the “egregious event” last July.

A senior clerk pursued McKinney on foot for stealing booze from the Debec store and got the license number on the stolen truck he was driving. During a break-in at the nearby Paintball Club on Dugan Road, he fled the scene in the same truck with stolen equipment flying off the back of the vehicle onto the highway.

Judge McLean noted McKinney was “all over hell and back at high speeds” during his rampage. Police

tracked the stolen truck he was driving and cornered him on a trail near Hodgdon Road where the truck fetched up on roots and trees.

McKinney then rammed the police vehicle while in reverse, and nearly ran over a police officer and police dog. When the dog grabbed him by the leg, he tried to escape by striking the animal on the head. He denied trying to gouge the dog’s eyes out. McKinney was treated later at the hospital for a dog bite.

After his arrest, the crown said McKinney showed a “blatant disregard” for two release orders and quickly landed back in custody.

“I never dreamed I was capable of such things and I’m disgusted with myself,” McKinney said as he stood to read a written apology. “When you’re high, you don’t care about the consequences or what might happen tomorrow. I am so grateful I got pulled back from the edge before I toppled over.”

McKinney said he intends to make amends for his actions. He told the court he recently ended a toxic relationship with a woman on drugs and wants to get his life back on track.

Defence Counsel Michael Mallory asked for a sentence of 13 to 16 months in jail for his client, minus time served, followed by 18 months probation. The defence lawyer explained McKinney has mental health issues and struggles with drug and alcohol addiction. He got sober in jail and has been working on recovery.

“He went off his medication and into drugs and his life went off the rails,” Mallory stated. “He recognizes how counseling will help him move forward in the future.”

McKinney was denied bail and remanded to provincial jail when he appeared in provincial court in custody by video in December. He was released from custody on Nov. 21, 2022, with strict conditions, including house arrest and wearing an electronic monitoring device attached to his ankle. He was arrested by RCMP and taken back into custody on Dec. 3, 2022, for breaching his release order.

McKinney first appeared in custody for a bail hearing on Aug. 5, 2022, and was released with similar conditions, but was brought back into custody. He was charged by Woodstock Police with breaching his release order on Aug. 23, 2022, and remanded.

Cloverdale man handed fines, conditional sentence

Wyatt Delong, 28, of Cloverdale, appeared for sentencing in provincial court on March 28 after changing his plea to guilty on multiple charges laid by RCMP.

Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean took a three-pronged approach in sentencing. The judge levied fines totaling $800, gave Delong 45 days in jail or time served on one set of charges, and then handed him a three-month conditional sentence with a curfew for his remaining offenses.

Delong will be permitted to go to work while serving his conditional sentence. He was also placed on probation for 18 months. He was also prohibited from the use of firearms and must refrain from alcohol or drugs.

Judge McLean noted Delong “made great progress with the support of his family.” The accused severed all ties with the drug culture, took counseling for meth addiction, and secured full-time employment. Delong has been sober for the past seven months and expressed remorse for his crimes.

“He is not a kid, but hopefully he has learned from this situation,” McLean told the court.

Delong spent 52 days in jail on remand after his arrest and then spent 252 days under full house arrest with an ankle bracelet.

He pleaded guilty to possession of stolen property (a snowmobile) on Feb. 28, 2022, in Wilmot; stealing gas from Kojax Petro Canada in Hartford on Feb. 28, 2022; possession of a firearm without a license (a 32-cal lever-action Winchester Model 94), on Aug. 1, 2021, at Centreville; breach of a release order on May 2, 2022, in Cloverdale; possession of a loaded, sawed-off shotgun (forfeited to the crown) and ammunition without a license, possession of a stolen dirt bike, and breach of a release order on May 4, 2022, at Cloverdale.

He also pleaded guilty to two counts of breach of an undertaking for incidents on Nov. 28, 2021, and Jan. 9, 2022, at Cloverdale. Several other charges were withdrawn by the crown.

Delong was also charged with assault causing bodily harm to a female victim on June 12, 2021, at Wilmot. He agreed to sign a 12-month peace bond and have no contact with the complainant.

Woodstock teen ready to cheer on the national stage

Lola Foster and her Limelight cheerleading team head to nationals in Niagara Falls

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Woodstock High School

student Lola Foster has travelled a lot to pursue her passion as a cheerleader.

She will make her most extended trip this week as Lola and her Limelight cheerleading team from the Capital City Elite gym in Fredericton head to Niagara Falls, Ontario, to compete at the Nationals.

Lola’s Limelight, competing at the Open 3.2 level, is one of four Capital City Elite teams heading to Nationals.

Glamour will compete in U16 Level 2, Glitz in U16 Level 1, and Showstoppers in U12 Level 1.

After nine years as a competitive gymnast

with River Valley Gymnastics, Lola’s mother, Hayley, said her daughter decided to try cheerleading in the summer of 2021.

Unfortunately, with no competitive cheerleading teams at Woodstock High School or the local community, Lola’s only option was 100 kilometres away in Fredericton.

She joined the Capital City Elite gym and made the two-hour return trip twice a week to train and practice with her teammates in Fredericton.

The effort paid off, with the Limelight making a mark on the provincial level over the past two years, earning the

trip to Nationals. They flew out to Niagara Falls on April 14.

Lola joined the Capital City Elite gym in 2021 but didn’t compete at an in-person event until March 22, 2022, after the lifting of COVID protocols. The Limelight placed second.

This year, Lola and her Limelight teammates caught fire, taking home first place in their category at Provincials and earning the Judge’s Choice Award and Best Choreography Award.

Lola is excited to head to Niagara Falls as the squad puts in the hard work and practice time needed to prepare for the national stage.

That included an Easter weekend dedicated to perfecting their routine.

While cheerleading uses some gymnastics skill sets, Lola said it’s a significantly different sport. She noted that cheering is highly focused on working as a team.

“I’m probably more nervous in cheerleading,” Lola said. “If you mess up, you let the whole team down.”

She said the Nationals is a two-day competition in which each team performs the same routine twice before judges.

Lola is confident she

and her teammates will rise to the challenge in Niagara Falls. She also knows her experience at the Capital City Elite gym was worth the long road trips, dedication and many hours of practice.

She’s looking forward to performing on the biggest stage to date.

SPORTS REPORTER WANTED

The River Valley Sun is looking for a freelance sports reporter.

If you follow local sports, have a great command of the English language, and are looking for a size hussle, get in touch!

Email Theresa Blackburn at theresa@rivervalleysun.ca

The Capital City Elite gym Limelight teammates pose with their Provincial championship, Best Choreography, and Judge’s Choice banners. (Submitted photo)

Lola Foster competes at the National Cheerleading competition this month. (Submitted)