RVS Aug 2024 Vol 6 Iss 8

RIVER VALLEY SUN

Bussing denied

School district refuses request by mother of sixyear-old with diabetes despite doctor’s note

By Paige Morgan

For many children, taking the bus is an average part of their school morning routine. Students quickly arrive at school with plenty of energy for learning and playing.

However, for six-year-old diabetic Sawyer Groff, the bus is not an option, forcing him to walk to school and causing his blood sugar to drop drastically.

Sawyer was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of two. Type 1 diabetes affects the body’s ability to produce enough insulin, the hormone that controls blood glucose. The body’s cells can either

resist the effects of insulin or the pancreas does not produce enough insulin. Lack of insulin can cause fatigue, blurred vision, and numbness in the hands and feet.

Sawyer’s mother, Jennie Groff, first discovered that the bus would not be an option for her son during his Townsview kindergarten orientation this past fall. The school district’s bus system only accommodates those who live beyond 2.4 kilometres of the school. The single mother of two does not have a vehicle, so walking to school seemed like

the best transportation to school in the beginning.

“We thought it would be fine because we walk all the time, but for some reason walking to school, I don’t know if it was the early morning or what, or even the activity throughout the day. His blood sugar dropped, and it didn’t matter how much I dosed him,” said Jennie Jennie tried dosing him with more insulin, but his blood sugar was still lowering. With the fear of her son going into diabetic ketoacidosis, which can

See BUSSING on pg. 4

Irving wind project faces fierce blowback

Residents strongly opposed to planned Brighton Mountain Wind Farm

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Dozens of residents turned out to J.D. Irving, Limited’s first open house on Thursday, Aug. 8, in Juniper to express strong opposition to the company’s plans to build a massive wind farm in the forested mountains surrounding their homes.

JDI officials hosted the open house at the Juniper Recreation Centre on Thursday afternoon as part of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) studying a proposed project to install 58 windmills along company-owned land in northern Carleton County.

Close to 100 people attended the event, most of whom opposed the project. The opponents made their voices heard during an often raucous question-and-answer session moderated by Maurice Robichaud.

The strongest opposition came from residents living in rural communities like Knowlesville, near the proposed project. While many explained they live environmentally conscious lifestyles and support renewable energy, they expressed strong

distrust of the company and the EIA process.

Ayiana Rahhali, a young woman who has lived in Knowlesville for the past 10 years, offered a viewpoint she believes most of her neighbours share.

“My primary concern is the forest,” she told the River Valley Sun following the first of three hour-long information sessions hosted by JDI. “I’m not against windmills per se. I’m against where they’re putting them right now and

Jennie Groff is advocating for her son, Sawyer (above), and other families in the school district who are having trouble accessing bussing for children with special needs. Sawyer has Type 1 diabetes, but doesn’t qualify for bussing because he lives less than 2.4 km from the school. (Submitted photo)

Project opponent Jean Arnold (far right) gets help to unveil a sign sending a message to Irving corporate interests at a public meeting in Juniper. (Jim Dumville photo)

WIND FARM

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I’m against the money going into Irving’s pocket.”

Jean Arnold, a longtime Knowlesville resident and environmental activist, forcefully delivered her opposition message to Irving officials.

She believes the Irving spokespeople, including representatives from Hatch Consultants, are in a conflict of interest.

“They’re representing Irving,” Arnold said.

She described the proposed Brighton Mountain Wind Farm as a massive industrial-style project destined for a primary, highly productive forest land.

“A project like this should be on degraded land, not in primary forests,” Arnold explained.

She noted the project will overlook the headwaters of three important rivers.

“They’re talking about the headspring for the Miramichi, the Nashwaak and the Becaguimac,” she said.

J.D. Irving, Limited officials and a representative from Hatch consultants attempted to answer a series of questions during the open house, often reminding them that the EIA is designed to mitigate most of their concerns.

Officials present included JDI Vice President of Energy Dion Handrahan, Senior Project Manager Calvin Rice, Director of Environmental Affairs Renee Morais, and Director of Sustainability and Indigenous Affairs Andrew Willett. They were joined by Ian Walker from Hatch. JDI officials tried to

explain in detail the EIA process and long-running studies to establish benchmarks, areas of environmental concerns, steps to mitigate concerns and efforts to keep the public informed during the process.

Walker explained that Hatch’s role included drawing on the data and knowledge of experts worldwide. He explained that they studied not only the potential impact of the wind farm on Brighton Mountain but also gathered information from similar projects around the globe.

Morais defended Hatch’s role in the process. While JDI pays the firm, she explained, Hatch would not risk its license or reputation by delivering company-friendly data.

Morais also defended JDI’s communication efforts, explaining they delivered notices detailing the scope of the project to nearby residential addresses. She said they also attempted to respond to hundreds of email inquiries.

Several residents disputed those claims, saying they not only did not receive notices, but their emailed questions went unanswered.

Morais admitted the company was facing a backlog of emails but would make every effort to respond to all questions.

Wotstak First Nation Chief Tim Paul, who did not attend the Juniper open house, previously told the River Valley Sun that both JDI and the provincial government failed to fulfill their duties to adhere to Indigenous rights regarding the project.

“Any project that affects Indigenous treaty rights, they (the provincial government) are supposed to flag it. Once it’s flagged by them, they get a hold of us. Brighton should have contacted Wolastoqey Nation in New Brunswick (WNNB),” Paul said.

The chief claimed the province first erroneously claimed the project didn’t affect treaty rights but is now backtracking on that viewpoint.

“Regardless of whether it’s their land (Brighton/Irving) or Crown land, these types of projects affect wildlife in the area and go over streams, which should automatically trigger section 35 (of the Indian Act). There should be consultation,” said Paul.

He explained that Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982, states that “the existing aboriginal and treaty rights of the aboriginal peoples of Canada are hereby recognized and affirmed. The Duty to Consult process is part of the duty of all federal and provincial governments to maintain the Honour of the Crown. (from Canada. ca website).

Paul described the impact of the windmill project as far-reaching.

“They’ll be making roads into these places. The bases for those windmills are huge. There may be places with archeological artifacts that they may find. If we are not part of that, it gets swept under the rug,” Paul said.

J.D. Irving, Limited spokespeople previously listed steps the company and government took to inform local residents and Indigenous groups of the project’s plans.

Those included:

— Filing an Environmental Impact Assessment with the province, announced in a news release on April 22.

— Notified First Nations of a potential project in August 2023, with additional written communication in March 2024.

— JDI representatives went door-to-door to 250 addresses near the project, answered questions and left pamphlets at each household.

— Established a website for the project, brightonwind.com, with feedback encouraged via email submission.

— Sent letters about the project to the Western Valley Regional Service Commission, the Hartland and Central Valley Fire chiefs and camp owners with lease agreements on JDI Property.

— JDI representatives addressed the Annual General Meetings for Quad NB and Snowmobile Motoniege NB.

— Met with the Western Valley Regional Service Commission, CAOs and local councillors on May 22.

Carleton North Mayor Andrew Harvey attended the Juniper open house, noting he tentatively supports the projects. As a former provincial cabinet minister, he said he is familiar with and has faith in the EIA process.

He said Carleton North council will make a formal statement regarding the project in the near future.

Harvey noted most of those opposing the windmill project encourage the switch from fossil fuels to renewable energy. He said this project would make a massive dent in that changeover.

“You can’t have it both ways,” he said.

Florenceville-Bristol resident David Hunter expressed similar sentiments when he challenged project opponents during the first Q&A on Thursday afternoon.

“I drove my electric car out here,” he told project opponents. “The world is in a climate crisis. And you guys are doing this ‘not in my backyard syndrome stuff.”

He questioned how they drove to Juniper.

gate those concerns. She explained that the process will identify and address water, birds, wildlife, and other concerns.

She and other officials stressed Brighton Mountain “checks a lot of boxes” as an ideal site for such a project. The Irvingowned land provides excellent wind resources, 75 per cent of required roads are in place and offers easy access to N.B. Power transmission lines.

CORRECTION

In last month’s story about baby Jade Rhymer’s health challenges, the River Valley Sun was provided with an incorrect email address. To send donations to the family, please e-transfer to maxine_rhymer@outlook.com. We are sorry any inconvenience this may have caused.

Marais said JDI officials understand residents’ concerns, but she pointed out that the EIA process will help the company miti-

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The River Valley Sun is a free,

the Upper St. John River Valley of New Brunswick. “Our mission

Approximately 100 people, most opposing the project, attended the first of three Thursday afternoon open house sessions in Juniper. (Jim Dumville photo)

Woodstock man sentenced to jail

Jason Kuhndel handed nine months for sending explicit photos, videos to minor

By Theresa Blackburn

Supported by his parents and brother, 20-year-old Jason Kuhndel of Woodstock stood calmly before Frederiction Provincial Court Judge Natalie LeBlanc as she sentenced him for online sex crimes on Friday, Aug. 9.

Kuhndel was given nine months in jail, two years probation, and will spend 20 years on the National Sex Offender Registry. He’s also not allowed to have contact with the victim and must delete any images or videos of the victim from all electronic devices.

Judge LeBlanc did not prohibit Kuhndel from being in public spaces where minors may be present or restrict his internet use. She cited his immediate plea of guilty, his sincere remorse, the positive pre-sentence report, and his family’s consistent support, noting she did not believe Kuhndel was a risk to the public and

that he had ‘excellent rehabilitation potential.’

Earlier this year, the Woodstock man pleaded guilty to one count of child luring and one count of making sexually explicit material available to a minor with the intent to create child pornography. The charges relate to incidents that occurred in Fredericton in January 2023. The victim, whose identity is protected by a publication ban, was 11 years old at the time.

In an agreed statement of facts, the court heard that Fredericton Police began their investigation in March 2023.

Kuhndel met the victim when he was a camp counsellor, and she was a camper at a regional camp. In January 2023, the girl contacted Kuhndel on the social media app Snapchat, and the two began talking. Within a month, they exchanged intimate photos and videos. When she told him she was 11,

he deleted her off Snapchat. She then added him back, and they began talking again. The two also shopped for sexual items at a Fredericton mall with friends.

During the investigation, Fredericton Police found no evidence of sexual touching, but Judge LeBlanc noted that didn’t negate the severity of the crime. She referenced the victim impact statement, noting the victim’s mental health had suffered greatly since the crimes occurred.

After handing down her sentence, Judge LeBlanc wished Kuhndel luck and told him she hoped the sentence would give him time to reflect.

“You have to do better,” said Judge LeBlanc. “You have to make up for the harm you did to this community as well as to society in general. The victim in this case did not deserve to be injured, and while I rec-

ognize the remorse, it does not fix the victim or automatically heal the victim.”

When the hearing concluded, Kuhndel hugged his lawyer and told his family he loved them before sheriff’s officers took him away in handcuffs.

Kuhndel was a civilian volunteer with the Woodstock #318 Cadet Corp when he was charged, but did not disclose the charges to his supervisor.

After being notified of the charges, Captain Jordan Elliot, Public Affairs Officer of the Regional Cadet Support Unit, said Kuhndel was removed from his duties.

“During our fact finding, we found that Mr. Kuhndel did not inform the Commanding Officer at 318 RCACC in Woodstock, NB of the charges brought forward in November of 2023. This breach of trust is not tolerated, and thus the decision to terminate

Mr. Kuhndel’s volunteer agreement was made independent of any potential outcome of civilian court proceedings. Mr. Kuhndel will be unable to volunteer or work with the Cadet Program in the future and has been advised not to attend cadet activities or events open to the public.”

The statement adds that all staff, volunteer and otherwise, have been updated with the policies and duty requirements that everyone involved with the Canadian Cadet Organizations must follow.

RCMP investigating death as homicide

“To be absolutely clear, the protection, safety and welfare of cadets is our highest priority—we will not tolerate harmful or inappropriate behaviour from anyone involved with the Cadet Program,” says Elliot.

39-year-old Josh Crouse found dead in Lower Hainesville

RIVER VALLEY SUN

T

he New Brunswick RCMP’s Major Crime Unit (MCU) is investigating the death of a 39-year-old man in Lower Hainesville as a homicide.

On July 21, at approximately 8:20 a.m., members of the Nackawic RCMP detachment responded to a report of a sudden death at a residence on Central Hainesville Road.

When police arrived at the scene, they located the body of a man in the driveway.

The man has been identified as Josh M. Crouse.

The New Brunswick RCMP’s MCU has deemed the man’s death suspicious and is investigating it as a homicide.

The RCMP is asking for the public’s assistance in the case.

Anyone who was travelling in or who resides in the area and may have security camera or dash cam footage from the evening of July 20 and/or early morning hours of July 21 or who has information that may help further the investigation is asked to contact the Major Crime Unit at 1-888-506RCMP (7267). The investigation is ongoing.

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Jason Kuhndel was sentenced to nine months in jail and two years probation in Fredericton Court on Aug. 9. (File photo)

Fire destroys three transport trucks

RCMP investigating fire at local transportation company

By Theresa Blackburn

Three freight trucks were destroyed after a fire at McConnell Transport in Jacksonville on Tuesday, Aug. 6.

Woodstock Fire Chief Harold McLellan said the call came in at 5:37 p.m. Dispatch said two transports were on fire, but three were fully engulfed when firefighters arrived on scene. Plumes of smoke from the fire could be seen kilometres away.

The trucks were

parked closely together at the time. Employees with McConnell Transport were able to move others out of the way, limiting the damage. The trucks weren’t hooked to trailers, minimizing the overall loss.

“They went up quickly. There’s little left. That’s the nature of them. They are closed in, and when they catch fire, they go quickly,” said McLellan.

The RCMP is investigating.

Woodstock undercover drug operation leads to arrests

Investigation by Integrated Enforcement Unit focused on street-level drug dealers

RIVER VALLEY SUN

The Woodstock Police Force announced several arrests following a several-month undercover drug-trafficking investigation in the Woodstock area.

In a release issued Aug. 9, the WPF explained the Woodstock Integrated Enforcement Unit, comprised of offi-

cers from the Woodstock Police Force, RCMP and the Department of Justice and Public Safety, conducted an undercover investigation in Woodstock, NB, focusing on street-level drug dealers in the area.

This investigation resulted in the execution of two separate search war-

rants on a residence and a third on a vehicle. These searches led to the seizure of cocaine, methamphetamine, MDMA, and approximately $20,000 in Canadian currency.

The release said police arrested four individuals who are facing multiple drug-related and criminal charges.

During the investigation, Woodstock IEU members located and arrested seven unrelated individuals wanted by police for other criminal offences or outstanding arrest warrants.

The Woodstock IEU was assisted in this investigation by the Saint John and Fredericton

IEUs, the Woodstock Police Force Street Crime Unit and patrol officers.

The Woodstock Police Force explained that the public plays an important role in reducing, preventing, and solving crime. It asks anyone with information about the illegal possession or traf-

ficking of drugs in the community to contact Woodstock Police Force at 1-506-325-4601. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at www.crimenb.ca.

Woodstock Police Force investigating hit and run

Two people sustain minor injuries in evening crash

RIVER VALLEY SUN

The Woodstock Police Force is investigating a serious motor vehicle accident on July 31 at approximately 9:54 p.m. at the intersection of Connell Street and Connell Park Road.

Preliminary investigation indicates that a white Hyundai Elantra, travelling at a high rate of speed and on the

BUSSING

Continued from page 1

be fatal, it became apparent to Jennie that walking was no longer an option.

“It caused a lot of mental and physical wear on him where walking was not feasible,” said Jennie.

Taxis were too expensive for Jennie, so she emailed the Anglophone West School District to ask permission for her son to take the bus.

Beverly Culberson is the acting Assistant Manager for Finance and Administration/ Transportation; she responded by saying.

“Many people walk to Townsview, the shortest path for your location is up Saint James St. and

wrong side of the road, collided with another vehicle before fleeing the scene. The suspect vehicle, which sustained significant damage to the front driver’s side, was later found abandoned.

Two individuals involved in the collision were transported to the URVH with minor inju-

through the path by the golf course. Sorry if that is inconvenient, but busing is not provided within walk zone except in rare cases of a student having documented special needs,” Culberson.

Jennie had Sawyer’s pediatrician write a letter; however, there was no response.

“I don’t know if they didn’t receive, or they didn’t think it was enough,” said Jennie.

People on Reddit have told Jennie that walking paths without sidewalks are more likely to receive accommodations. However, Jennie has been advised to take the path lacking a proper sidewalk.

“The path they are telling us to walk, part

ries. The Woodstock Police are actively investigating the incident and are seeking any witnesses or information that may assist in locating the driver of the suspect vehicle.

Anyone who may have been in the Connell Street area is asked to review their dashcam or security video systems

of it, like the whole road we’re supposed to walk and then the path doesn’t have a sidewalk, so,” said Jennie.

Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development Bill Hogan is counting on the School District to accommodate Sawyer’s needs.

“I would hope that with medical documentation that the District will take it into consideration,” said Hogan.

This fall, Jennie hopes Sawyer has access to safe, budget-friendly transportation to school.

“Hopefully, it does get figured out, and hopefully, I don’t have to deal with this every single year. If it can help out even the least bit, I’m ok with that,” said Jennie.

to determine if they recorded any part of the incident.

If you have any information about this or any other crime, please get in touch with the Woodstock Police Force at 506-325-4601, Crime Stoppers at 1-866-222TIPS, or Crime Stoppers online at www.crimenb. ca.

Woodstock Firefighters work to put out a fire at McConnell Transport on Tuesday, Aug. 6. Three transport trucks were destroyed. (Theresa Blackburn photo)

With the district not allowing him to take the bus to school, Sawyer’s mother has to spend over $300 a month in taxi rides because she doesn’t own a vehicle. (Submitted photo)

Turning a Nackwic-Millville housing dream into reality

Province officially announces more than $7.6 million in funding for development

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The smiles were almost as bright as the sunshine on Friday, July 19, as provincial and Nackawic-Millville officials gathered on the waterfront to officially announce millions in funding support for the rural community’s ambitious mixed residential development.

The Regional Development Corporation officially committed nearly $7.7 million to constructing roads, water, sewers, and green spaces for the new development. Over two phases, it will provide more than 260 new residential homes in the heart of Nackawic.

Carleton-York MLA and Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Richard Ames represented the province at the announcement, which was held under the shadow of Nackawic’s iconic big axe. He spoke on behalf of Indigenous Affairs Minister Réjean Savoie, the minister responsible for the Regional Development Corporation.

“We are addressing the housing challenge by investing in infrastructure that will support new housing development in communities across the province,” said Ames. “I am very pleased to announce that Nackawic-Millville will be able to take the next steps in a much-needed mixed residential housing

development with our government’s support.”

Nackawic-Millville Deputy Mayor Greg MacFarlane, a board member of the Destination Nackawic Development Corporation, served as master of ceremonies for the announcement.

He began by providing a brief history of the long journey leading to shovels in the ground this fall, touching on almost a decade of important milestones.

“We’ve learned a lot and we’re stronger today than we’ve ever been,” said MacFarlane.

He said he discovered eight years ago when he joined the Nackawic council, the vital need to grow the town’s tax base, which included expanding the population and the economy.

MacFarlane said the town took a giant step five years ago when it established the Destination Nackawic Economic Development Corporation, an active agency rarely found outside major New Brunswick cities.

Destination Nackawic’s first significant project was the successful development of the Nackawic Marina on the waterfront.

At the same time, MacFarlane explained, the corporation reached out to stakeholders to determine the community’s long-term

needs. He recalled thencouncillor Gail Farnsworth citing the need for affordable housing.

Three years ago, following the completion of the marina, MacFarlane said Destination Nackawic turned its focus to housing. It hired Gemtec to conduct a feasibility study about turning an undeveloped portion of town-owned land into a mixed residential development.

“We didn’t really know how we were going to get it done, but we believed we could get it done,” he said.

MacFarlane said that two years ago, the formation of the NackawicMillville Rural Community brought with it Mayor Tim Fox and a forward-looking council that shared Destination Nackawic’s vision.

Last year, Gemtec returned with a report determining a feasible and viable project, convincing the province and other partners to jump on board.

MacFarlane explained the newly created N.B. Housing Hub played a vital role in making the residential project possible. Noting small communities like Nackawic-Millville lack the staff to take on projects of this size, he said the Housing Hub serves as the project manager.

“We needed a partner and we found it with the Housing Hub,” he said.

MacFarlane praised Mayor Fox and Ames’s leadership efforts, noting that they’ve talked often to keep the momentum rolling.

Fox echoed the deputy mayor’s praise of Destination Nackawic and council members.

“I got the best council in the River Valley and probably the province,” he said.

Fox stressed the historic nature of Friday’s announcement, noting it marked the most significant infrastructure funding amount in the community’s history and the largest economic growth initiative since Nackawic was built.

“Part of our community economic development strategy is to create opportunities for population and tax base growth,” said Fox. “We are proud of the work done by our Destination Nackawic Economic Development Corporation to spearhead this initiative, and we are so thankful for our partnerships with Housing Hub of New Brunswick, Gemtec, and for the New Brunswick government for their support of this important project.”

Fox said successful expansion must meet two demands simultaneously: economic and population growth.

MacFarlane cited local manufacturer CORE Panel & Truss as an example

of how housing and business expansion complete a full circle. He explained that the Nackawic-based business relies on an export market but wants to expand to meet a broader demand for both domestic and export markets.

However, he explained, Nackawic-Millville lacks housing options for its growing employee base, hindering expansion.

MacFarlane said the company recently began manufacturing modular homes. Not only would the housing development provide a market for the homes, but the homes would provide a residential option for employees.

Fox estimated the residential project could increase the rural community’s tax base by $25 million, which would mean an eight-to-10 percent increase in tax revenue.

“That’s a big step,” he said.

MacFarlane said Phase 1 of the project would include 100 residences, which he called “doors,” explaining that it would consist of apartment buildings, townhouses, and modular homes. Phase 2 would add another 160 “doors”

MacFarlane said 40 per cent of both phases must meet “affordable” requirements.

He said the project enjoys investment from three levels of government, the private sector, nonprofits and co-ops.

He said shovels will be in the ground this fall, with building construction beginning next year.

“A year from today, I hope you’re interviewing us with our first homes being built,” MacFarlane said.

2024 Hall of Fame Recognition Dinner and Gala

The 2024 Hall of Recognition Dinner and Gala will take place at the New Brunswick Potato Museum at Potato World in Florenceville-Bristol on Saturday, September 14. Social hour starts at 6 p.m. followed by a dinner and awards ceremony at 7 p.m.

The 2024 recipients are: Dr. Michael Smalley (Smalley’s Welding Repair)

Dr. Michael Smalley has been a long-time provider of potato manufacturing equipment, serving potato growers welding and repair needs for 50 years.

Mr. Ralph and Nancy Hanscome

The Hanscomes are the founders of Atlantic Potato Distributors.

From left, Nackawic-Millville Deputy Mayor Greg MacFarlane, N.B. Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Richard Ames and Mayor Tim Fox. (Jim Dumville photo)

Hartland Council News

NB Power supports waterfront project, concerns over state of Route 575

By Doug Dickinson

NB Power supports waterfront project

Following an initial rejection of the town’s waterfront revitalization project, Hartland has received a letter of support and is now moving on to fundraising.

Hartland Chief Administrative Officer Rob Webber said that now that the town has NB Power’s support, it will apply to the Regional Development Corporation for funding. Pending the RDC’s response, the project will move forward.

A report from consultant Dan Glenn of the Glenn Group was presented to council, along with a chart showing the estimated cost for each element. Glenn estimated the project’s total budget at nearly $1.6 million. Among the top items in the budget are $322,000 for a pavilion park, $314,175 for contingency, $308,000 for the library and museum, and $190,200 for a riverfront loop trail.

Webber said if funding from ACOA and RDC is approved to cover 80 per cent of the cost, the town’s share would total $379,270, which could be reduced through private donations as well as reductions in repair and maintenance in the town’s operating budget.

Motions were approved unanimously to apply for funding and to adopt Dan Glenn’s vision for the project.

Town hears concerns about state of Route 575

Hartland council heard concerns from residents on Route 575 about the state of the road. Dale Webber and his son-in-law Tim Curnew spoke to council about the issue of potholes on the road, which runs just outside Hartland town limits to Cloverdale.

Dale said the road hadn’t received significant work since it was partly chip-sealed in 1992.

“Cloverdale’s half [of the road] is a bunch of patches to the point now it’s dangerous,” said Dale. “There are places where people go around the bumps out on the shoulder of the road, now the shoulder of the road is getting holes in it. It’s ridiculous.”

Curnew expressed concern for first responders who access the road for emergency calls and residents’ wear and tear on their vehicles. He said he contacts the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DTI) once a week to share his concerns.

“This year they did patch but it didn’t last very long at all,” said Curnew. “That is not what is required. What is required is a full job from start to finish, not just patches.”

Curnew said the potholes need to be addressed, noting, “they’re not potholes, they are

craters.”

DTI spokesperson Jacob MacDonald told the River Valley Sun the road received $50,000 in repairs between Doug Hill and Highgate Road in 2023, while asphalt levelling and culvert work was completed in 2020, 2022, and 2023.

“Repairs to potholes and edge deterioration will be addressed as needed within the funding available this year,” said MacDonald.

Coun. Mike Walton, the town’s fire chief, said he feels DTI and the provincial government have not addressed the roadway’s condition.

“It has been there for 15 years in that condition it is today,” said Walton.

“It’s at a point that the fire service won’t use that road anymore because it is tearing trucks to pieces getting over it. If they want the fire service to stop in Cloverdale than they are going to be responsible for it. I want them to know they are going to be responsible.”

Walton said Route 105 south of Hartland has similar issues, particularly a two-kilometre stretch going to the town limits. He noted seeing a gravel truck nearly collide with a car when it went off the side of the road to avoid holes.

MacDonald said DTI identified the road in its system as requiring maintenance, and it “will be considered as we develop the capital program for future years.”

New signage to welcome visitors to Hartland community Council is moving ahead with new welcome signage that will be installed at the town and surrounding communities’ main entry points. Signs will be placed at each end of Route 103, Route 104, Route 105, and Route 130.

Webber told the River Valley Sun the signs will welcome travellers to each community that makes up Hartland, such as a “Welcome to Waterville” sign on Route 130.

There will be eight locations for signs in total. In addition to Waterville,

signs will be placed in Lower Brighton, Upper Brighton, Simonds, Somerville, Victoria Corner, Coldstream, and Cloverdale.

Webber stressed the importance of representation for each community in Hartland.

Town receiving complaints of off-road vehicles In the wake of residents raising concerns of off-road vehicles on streets and damaging property, council is looking to draft a new offroad vehicle by-law to reinforce provincial regulations.

Webber told the River Valley Sun council

will look to adopt a new by-law in the coming months. Until then, the town will work with local law enforcement “to try to curtail or address some of the speeding and nuisance issues.”

He said the by-law would restate what’s already in the Off-Road Vehicle Act, including registration, licenced plates and wearing helmets.

“A by-law will give law enforcement and peace officers – those who can administer the by-law – more ability to do so, so we can try to reduce some of the activity that the town would like to see reduced.”

Woodstock to expand policing survey

Council approves direct-mail survey to get more feedback on police expansion proposal

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

W oodstock council agreed to expand the survey to seek feedback from residents regarding its proposal to extend the Woodstock Police Force’s coverage to all wards.

In an update delivered at the July 23 council meeting, Mayor Trina Jones explained that the 433 responses to the recently completed online survey fall short of the feedback she believes is needed for the council to make an informed decision.

“We’re missing a large percentage of the population,” she said.

The mayor recommended the town direct mail the survey questions to Woodstock residents, focusing on reaching especially residents in Wards 1, 2, 3 and 5. The proposed Woodstock Police Force expansion would replace the RCMP in those wards and increase their tax rates by 15 cents per $100 of assessment.

The WPF currently covers Ward 4, encompassing the former Woodstock town boundaries before municipal reform. The police changes would not affect Ward 4 tax rates.

Jones said the 433 responses to the online survey showed 58 per cent in favour of the expansion, 26 against it and 16 undecided. She said she fears the number of responses does not accurately reflect the opinion of Woodstock’s total population of more than 10,000 residents.

Jones said the colourful mailouts would cost $1,600 to print and $760 to mail. Council approved the costs.

Jones said the schedule currently calls for the town to mail the survey on Aug. 7. She said residents could respond through an online address or drop their responses in drop boxes at AYR Motor Centre and possibly the Woodstock town hall. She said the town would also reopen its

online survey.

“We’re trying to make this super easy for people to do, give them lots of ways to do it, lots of time and time for you guys (councillors) to make a more informed decision,” Jones said.

She added that the town will also host two, possibly three, open houses to provide residents with detailed answers to their questions. One public meeting will be held in Richmond Corner and another in Woodstock. She added that they could host a third open house in Northampton if necessary.

She said the mailouts would include the open houses’ locations, dates, and times.

“This is a huge decision,” she said.

CAO Allan Walker said 37 per cent of the survey responses came from Ward 4, with the remaining from Wards 1, 2, 3 and 5.

He and the mayor expressed hope a wider survey and information delivered through the open houses would convince the undecided to one side or the other.

Jones said many survey respondents took advantage of the survey to make comments, which she would share with council and the public later. She said the comments offered valuable information but also demonstrated a widespread misunderstanding of the process leading to municipal reform.

Woodstock submitted its plan, developed by Chief Gary Forward and his team, to expand coverage to all wards at the province’s request. New Brunswick Public Safety Minister Kris Austin approved the proposed plan. The expanded force would double staffing from 22 to 44 members and increase the town budget from an estimated $3.3 million to $8.7 million.

The province also agreed to provide the town with $4.2 million in

transitional funding, but Jones said town and provincial officials are currently negotiating for additional funds.

In addition to expanding coverage to Wards 1, 2, 3 and 5, the proposed plan includes coverage of Wotstak First Nation if agreement is reached between the band, the town, the province and the federal government.

If approved, the expansion will occur between 2025 and 2027.

The Woodstock Police Force would begin in 2025, covering only Ward 4, and expand to Ward 5 (Grafton, Northampton and Southampton) in October 2025. Pending an

agreement, the expansion would include the Wotstak First Nation at the same time.

The force would add Ward 3 in October 2026, followed by Wards 1, 2 and the highway in January 2027. The tax hike for Wards 1, 2, 3, and 5 would begin in 2025.

Woodstock Police Chief Gary Forward and Mayor Trina Jones, seen here at a public policing forum in December 2023. The town will be sending a mail-out to residents that could be impacted if the town expands policing services. (Jim Dumville photo)

Kids in the Dooryard Festival

wraps with family fun during the day and music into the night

Story and photos by Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

While the turnout proved a little less than the quality of entertainers and activities deserved, the 2024 edition of the Dooryard Arts Festival delivered plenty of memories for all who attended the full day of events.

After two nights of music and comedy at several locations throughout Woodstock, Dooryard offered a full day of celebration of the arts, much of it free.

The day began with free family fun on King Street and in the adjacent MainStage tent. While children and youth played games, showcased their artistic talents and watched several street performers, they and the adults took in performances from several acclaimed musicians.

With the support of the Multicultural Associa-

tion of Carleton County (MACC), Planet Youth and others, children played games, drew chalk art on the closed street, painted rocks, tried their hand at more traditional painting and watched street performances by Halifax Circus and Street Magic.

The entire family enjoyed performances by children’s entertainer Mr. Mark, rockers the Dooryard Drifters, and blues sensation Garrett Mason.

While King Street and the MainStage bustled with non-stop action on the sunny summer Saturday, travellers through downtown Woodstock could enjoy music in the Town Square at the corner of King and Main Streets.

Meanwhile, acclaimed musicians Nicole Rampersaud, trumpet player and composer, and Joel

Leblanc, multi-instrumentalist, performed at the nearby Connell House.

Across the Meduxnekeag River, the Cross Creek Brewery hosted Drag Trivia with Amber Love and Julia Jeffries.

Dooryard’s final MainStage showcase closed its three-day event Saturday evening with four highly acclaimed Maritime acts, starting with singer-songwriter Kelly McMichael. The St. John’s-based singer’s first album, Waves, was shortlisted for the prestigious 2022 Polaris Music Prize.

Jason Haywood and the Goldfish followed McMichael. Haywood returned to his solo career after his multi-awardwinning band, the Divorcees, disbanded. His list of awards includes Music N.B.’s Traditional/Roots

Artist of the Year.

Jessica Rhaye and the Ramshackle Parade were the third award-winning performers to take the stage on Saturday night. The New Brunswickbased singer-songwriter captivated the crowd with her own songs and covers of her favourite artists, such as Bob Dylan.

Earthbound, a New Brunswick-based rock quartet, delivered a big sound to close out the 2024 Dooryard MainStage performances. They used a combination of brilliant musicianship, great vocals and modern sound techniques to fill the night air on Woodstock’s waterfront.

The Dooryard Arts Festival came to a rocking end with an after-party at the Woodstock Legion, featuring local bands Monteith and Stinking Rich.

The Multicultural Association of Carleton County and Planet Youth hosted games and activities on King Street during the Dooryard Arts Festival family day in downtown Woodstock. (Jim Dumville photo)

Calia Nowland (right) proudly displays her creatively painted rock with Hilary Stiles, left, Planet Youth coodinator. Planet Youth was one of the groups hosting family events during the festival. (Jim Dumville photo)

Saint John artist Abi Reinhart completes a colourful chalk draw on King Street. (Jim Dumville photo)

Rockers Earthbound delivered a big sound as they closed on the MainStage Saturday night. (Jim Dumville photo)

Jessica Rhaye and the Ramshackle Parade perform at the MainStage. (Jim Dumville photo)

Old Home Week entertains, and draws crowds

Photos by Paige Morgan

Parents Erica Hull and Oakly Trecartin love seeing their kids, Thomas and Lennon have fun on the rides.

Dean Wood of Big John’s Spiral Potatoes loves the community atmosphere at Old Home Week.

Top: The Ferris Wheel is always a big draw at the fair. Bottom: Paintings on display at the Hobby Show.

TAKONUTOMAKONUWAL

Indigenous News and Features Sponsored by Wotstak (Woodstock) First Nation

‘Our treaty rights are affected by this project’ - Tim Paul Wotstak First Nation Chief Tim Paul says the Irvings, government aren’t following protocols

By Theresa Blackburn

On July 25, the River Valley Sun interviewed Wotstak First Nation Chief Tim Paul about Irving’s Brighton Mountain Wind Farm project near Juniper, which was announced this spring.

RVS: What concerns you most about this project?

TP: Any project that affects Indigenous treaty rights concerns me. The provincial government is supposed to flag projects that could impact our communities.

Once they flag a project, they contact us. Brighton should have contacted Wolastoqey Nation in New Brunswick (WNNB).

From what I’ve been told, the Government of New Brunswick said it didn’t affect us, that there was no effect on our treaty rights. Now, they are backtracking.

Whether it’s their land (Irving) or crown land, these types of projects affect wildlife in the area and go over streams, which should automatically trigger section 35* (of the Indian Act). There should be consultation.

They’ll be making roads into these places. The bases for those windmills are huge. They may be working in places where they may find archeological artifacts. If we are not part of that, things get swept under the rug.

They (the Irvings and the provincial government) didn’t do their due diligence; no, they did not, that is the prob -

lem.

RVS: What was Wotstak First Nation told about the wind farm?

TP: Like many people, I read about it in the paper, yet it’s in our backyard and Tobique’s backyard.

I can’t speak for them, but the process is supposed to be that it goes to WNNB. Thecompany notified the WNNB, but that’s not consultation.

RVS: What do you want to see happen?

TP: There’s got to be, depending on size and scope, an EIA (Environmental Impact Assessment), which will predict a path forward.

RVS: What bothers you most about how this has been rolled out?

TP: The disrespect that GNB initially gave, saying there wasn’t an impact on treaty rights. That bothers me. The Irvings think they can just do whatever they want without consultation.

In order for these things to go forward, there has to be dialogue. Dialogue goes a long way toward reconciliation.

I’m also worried about migratory birds and the impact the sound of the windmills will have on wildlife.

When they begin construction, there’s the archeological side when they make roads or dig foundations at the site.

Our grandfathers’ stories from the pre-reserve days talked about being camped here,

there, and everywhere. That is our territory. It saddens me the disrespect from our government and the Irvings. In their minds, there is no effect, but there is, and there is a process that needs to be followed.

Of all people, GNB employees in that department should have known the project would trigger section 35.

RVS: Why do you think the project didn’t trigger section 35 with the government?

TP: We all know why. It’s Irving. God love him, Jim Irving used to meet with me. He was a hands-on kind of guy, but he was, you could tell, a man who didn’t like it if he didn’t get his way.

RVS: What would it take to change your community’s position?

TP: I’m not sure what it would take to change our position, but until we actually see the project, can look at the EIA, if there even is one, and see what the real impacts are, we can’t do anything.

*Section 35 of the Constitution Act, 1982 states that, “the existing aboriginal and treaty rights of the aboriginal peoples of Canada are hereby recognized and affirmed.” The Duty to Consult process is part of the duty of all federal and provincial governments to maintain the Honour of the Crown.

WFN Healthy Hampers

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!

Wotstak First Nation Chief Tim Paul. (Submitted photo)

Big Iron Show N Shine celebrates trucking industry

2024 event displays more trucks, raises more money for Valley food bank

By Paige Morgan

For the third year, truckers could display their rigs at 205 Tamarack Road in Woodstock for the well-loved Big Iron Show N Shine, held on Saturday, July 20.

Big Iron Show N Shine partnered with the Valley Food Bank. Upon entry, people could donate money to help the food bank supply more nutritious food to the community. This year’s Big Iron Show N Shine helped raise $57,137.12 for the food.

The event strives to create a community between truckers and the drivers of the smaller vehicles on the road while celebrating the trucking industry. Attendees were invited to get close to the “big iron” and chat with the drivers.

“I’ve never been inside a transport before or this close, and I think it’s awesome and a good experience,” said first-time attendee Cathy DeLong.

This year, there was an increase in trucks. Drivers parked their trucks in lines to showcase to everyone attending.

The Big Iron Show N Shine offered a variety of activities for children.

A scavenger hunt was held between 2 and 8 p.m.; throughout the day, a cartoon truck photo board was set up, allowing kids to take a picture

and appear as if they were driving a truck.

Home loves that the Big Iron Show N Shine gives children an outside activity in the summer.

“Kids nowadays don’t want to do anything, but they’re all like, ‘Are we going to the truck show, are we going to the truck show?’ I guess that’s a win for us,” he said.

This year’s event was full of activities for adults to enjoy. From 6 to 11 p.m., attendees danced to the live music. This year’s performers included Markus Drake, The Martin Boys and the Redbridge Rockers, and the Cunningham Haines Band. There was also a light show, and at 10 p.m., fireworks lit the sky.

Food trucks were available all day for when people got hungry from walking around the lot.

The Big Iron Show N Shine organizers are happy that they have created an event that has shown appreciation to truckers and is well-loved by all types of people.

“Organizing a community event that’s growing and getting more recognized and enjoyed, and just have something more fun to do,” said organizer Matthew Stockford when sharing his favourite part of the Big Iron Show N Shine.

“Everyone has a good time, and that’s a win for us,’ said Home.

Top: Big Iron organizers present a cheque for $57,137.12 to representatives from the Valley Food Bank. (Submitted photo) Middle: A record 96 drivers took part this year. (Paige Morgan photo) Bottom: Jimmy Cannon shining his truck. (Paige Morgan photo)

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Big Axe Craft Beer Fest welcomes another sellout crowd

Annual festival continues to draw hundreds to Nackawic waterfront

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Another capacity crowd filled the field under the shadow of Nackawic’s famous big axe to taste the wares of four dozen craft alcohol producers and celebrate together at the 2024 Big Axe Craft Beer Festival.

The event, held on the Nackawic waterfront Saturday afternoon and evening, July 23, offered the sold-out crowd a chance to socialize, listen to music, play games, and sample a wide variety of beer, wine, and spirits courtesy of producers across the Maritimes and beyond.

Ticket holders arrived at the event by car, boat, or shuttle bus from several New Brunswick locations.

The festival, organized by Big Axe Brewery in Nackawic and sponsored by several Nackawic, Fredericton and other Upper St. John River Valley businesses, has annually sold all tickets.

Krystle Pitre, event co-organizer and brewery

operations manager, said the festival’s vendor support remains strong, with many producers returning annually.

She said the festival welcomed five new vendors this year — Breton Brewing, Cold Stream, Mystic Sea, Good Robot Brewing and Black Galley Distilling.

Hot, muggy weather greeted the festival attendees on Saturday, although a late afternoon thunderstorm and heavy rain sent them scurrying for cover.

The festival kicked off Friday evening with music from Denver Monteith and the evening’s headliner, Certified.

Pitre said the Friday event crowd was slightly lower than usual, but 60 tickets went unused.

“Maybe the heat had something to do with it,” she said.

The Essentials provided music under the big tent during the packed festival on Saturday.

Hartland Covered Bridge Market continues to grow Event

draws huge crowds on New Brunswick Day, caps Big Bridge Fest

By Theresa Blackburn

C

rowds, vendors, and food trucks converged on Hartland on Monday, Aug. 5, to celebrate all things New Brunswick. The community’s iconic covered bridge was closed to vehicle traffic so it could host the annual New Brunswick Day Covered Bridge Market. The event marks the end of the community’s annual Big Bridge Fest summer festival.

“I think we had more people this year than last,” said Doris Kennedy, one of the event’s key organizers. “We had 177 vendors plus more than 20 vendors offering food. Before, we had to reach out to people and ask if they wanted to be vendors. Now we have vendors contacting us, which is wonderful.”

The New Brunswick Day tradition began nine years ago when the provincial Department of Tourism asked the community to host the ‘official’ New Brunswick Day celebration.

“The first year we started with 66 vendors,” said Kennedy, adding that the event has steadily grown and has become a destination event in the province.

“We are at the stage now that we need to start applying for provincial funding to help us with this,” added Kennedy.

Throughout the day, some of their 40 volunteers took postal codes from attendees to gauge where people were coming from.

“Once we get to 25 per cent of people coming from outside the 75 km range, we can apply for funding. We are steadily getting there,” added Kennedy.

Craig Young and his family own Watershed Fishing Apparel and Co. Their booth was consistently busy with customers, so it was all hands on deck.

“It’s exciting to be here and see locals wearing our gear,” said Young, who had his entire family, including his son Hunter, who was visiting from Alberta, helping with the booth this year.

“I didn’t care what the weather was today because I was just excited to be here with my whole family.”

Vendor Julie Glencross from Fredericton sold an array of silver jewelry at her Glitteratzzi booth on the bridge. She’s been coming to the Covered Bridge Market for five years.

“I keep coming back for the people. Everyone is so friendly. I love the atmosphere, and the sales are always great. Now I have return customers each year.”

Alysa Smith is a caricature artist from South Carolina who grew up in Fredericton. She’s visiting for the summer and decided to bring her art to Hartland. She had a steady stream of customers most of the day.

“I’ve been doing this for 10 years now, “ said Smith, “and in that time I think I’ve done about 40,000 (caricactures).”

Josée Colella and her husband Fred moved from Quebec to Upper Knoxford two years ago to start homesteading. Her family’s new venture, La Farm, was doing brisk business with her homemade products and crafts.

“This (event) is great. We have a milking cow who had twins this winter, a large garden, and 100 chickens. We love it here. We have our crafts available at the Guardian (drug store) in Perth-Andover.”

Hundreds lined up at food trucks and outdoor kiosks to purchase tasty treats while musicians and dancers entertained the crowds.

The Essentials perform on Saturday at Nackawic’s Big Axe Craft Beer Festival. (Jim Dumville photo)

Big Axe Craft Beer Festival ticket holders test their washer-toss skills. (Jim Dumville photo)

Festival staffers Michelle Brown, Adam Tibbets and their dog Whiskey take a break. (Jim Dumville photo)

A capacity crowd filled the festival grounds at the Big Axe Craft Beer Festival in Nackawic. (J. Dumville photo)

Watershed Fishing Apparel & Co. had the entire family on hand to help with their New Brunswick Day market booth. From left, Craig, Tara, Hunter, Logan and Teghan Young were busy all day in Hartland. (Theresa Blackburn photo)

Left: Julie Glencross of Fredericton with her Glitteratzzi booth on the Hartland Covered Bridge. Right: The bridge was packed with vendors and customers on New Brunswick Day. (Theresa Blackburn photos)

SUMMER DAY CAMPS

August 12 - Drama Camp for ages 9 to 12

August 15 - Baking Buddies for ages 9 to 12

August 19 - Hidden Treasures for ages 7 to 12

Contact 506-325-4302 or email ayrmotorcentre@town.woodstock.nb.ca to register. Visit our Facebook page or the Woodstock Recreation website for details.

FULL-DAY OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

August 9 - Treego for ages 11 to 15

August 16 - St. Andrews By the Sea for ages 7 to 12

Visit the AYR Motor Centre FB page & the Woodstock Recreation website for info!

SUMMER SWIM PROGRAMS

PRESCHOOL - Designated for ages 3 to 5)

Cost: $67 Dates: Aug. 12 to 23, Mon. to Fri. Preschool 1, 3 & 5: 8:30 to 9 a.m.

Preschool 2, 4 & 6: 9:15 to 9:45 a.m.

Phone (506) 325-4988 or (506) 325-3993 to register

Swim Patrol - Designated for those who completed swimmer 6

Cost: $94 Dates: Aug. 12 to 23, Mon. to Fri., 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Phone (506) 325-4988 or (506) 325-3993 to register

ADULT SWIMMING LESSONS

Learn the basics, get comfortable being under water, floating and maneuver safely with our swim instructors! SPOTS ARE LIMITED!

Cost: $46 Dates: Wednesdays from Aug. 7 to 28, from 6:30 to 7 p.m. Register online or phone (506) 325-3993 or 325-4988

Challenge, a Chuckle, Facts, and a Smile

Did you KNOW?

Canada has approximately 8,000 wildfires per year.

• Most wildfires are cause by humans. Tens of thousands are also caused by lightning strikes.

• In 2023, 230,000 Canadians were evacuated because of the threat of forest fires, with more than 15 million hectares of forest was burned by 6,623 wildfires.

RVS TONGUE TWISTER

Five fast fire trucks fled to free four friends from a fire in Florenceville.

CARLETON COUNTY Colloquialisms

By John Morris

walkem sodie \’wahk-um ‘so-dee\ interjection - An exclamatory statement of inebriated glee, lit., a drunken “wahoo!” but employed in a manner similar to “walk ‘er to ya” or “fill yer boots,” i.e., an exhortation to go faster, harder, longer, etc., typically associated with the encouragement of activities such as dancing, racing motorized vehicles, or bar-fights; “Walkem sodie! We’re gunnoo tamarack ‘er down!” While not in ubiquitous use today, the term was very popular, and apparently exclusive, to Bath and surrounding areas after W.W. II and on through the early 1970s. It is said to have originated in the dance halls of war-time England, although it is unclear whether the term was actually imported to or exported from the Monquart area. Given the term’s regional scope, the latter may actually be the case. “Walkem” has apparent etymological links with the similar verb usage of “walk,” which may in fact be its precursor. Very little seems to be known about the origins of “sodie,” however, although the word may be French influenced.

Hear this word pronounced at www.dooryard.ca.

GET MUDDY!

FOR AGES 2 to 12

August 17 at 11 a.m. RAIN OR SHINE

Cost: $25 - includes t-shirt and refreshments

A fun, not-timed, muddy obstacle course completed in 4 divisions: Ages 2 to 4, 5 to 7, 8 to 10 and 11 to 12

A LITTLE

DIRT NEVER

HURT!

To register in advance contact 506-325-4302 or email woodstockrecevents@gmail.com

WOODSTOCK GAMES

Wednesday, Aug. 14 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. for ages 5 to 7

Cost: $25 Activities include yoga, long jump, obstacle course, throwing, kicking, relay race, frisbee and swimming. To register, call 506-325-4302 or email woodstockrecevents@gmail.com

FALL & WINTER PROGRAM REGISTRATION NIGHT

Wednesday, Sept. 11 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the AYR MOTOR CENTRE FIELD HOUSE

Local clubs & organizations will be in attendance to share their program information & take registrations. Come check out the many programs & special events for your and your family this fall and winter!

Visit our showroom at 323 Connell

www.connellchryslerdealer.com

Sleepover Fun

NEIGHBOURHOOD NEWS

Children ages two to 10 are invited to Miss Tina’s second annual sleepover. Any kid who loves games, movies and popcorn, water play, and glow sticks will have the time of their life. The 24 Hour Sleepover begins Saturday, Aug. 24 at 11 a.m. and goes until Sunday, Aug. 25, at 11 a.m. Kids who would rather not stay the night can sign up for the 1/2 Sleepover, which has a pickup time of 8 p.m.

Yoga and Flow

Looking for the ultimate relaxation?

Check out Jolie Vie Wellness Retreat for a variety of yoga classes like Slow Flow Yoga, Yin Yoga, Eccentrics Stretch in Sauna, and more. Check out their Facebook at Jolie Vie Wellness Retreat for monthly schedules.

Roller Skating

Up for some fun? Visit the River Valley Civic Centre, 11 School Street, on Fridays and Saturdays between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. and Sundays from 2 to 4 p.m. Rentals are $3 and there is a small concession stand for snacks.

Carleton North

Anniversary Celebration in Juniper

Join us at the Juniper Community Centre for our 10th Anniversary Celebration on Saturday, Aug. 17. Tours begin at 11 am, followed by a free barbecue at noon with anniversary cake, and music with Melissa White and friends. Weather permitting we will be outside. Our special guests include Lieutenant Governor Brenda Murphy, MP Richard Bragdon, MLA Margaret Johnson, and Mayor Andrew Harvey, speaking at 1 p.m. There will be music and games for youngsters and the young at heart all afternoon. Come and see how our energetic volunteers have transformed the 80 year old former school into a community hub and destination. (NOTE: Breakfast will not be served on this Saturday only.)

Volleyball Fun

Looking for a fun Friday evening activity?

Stop by the R.G. ‘Bun’ Veysey Active Living Centre between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to play volleyball. It’s for all ages. Students and those 55 years old and older play for $2, adults pay $3, and children under six with a paying adult play for free. Drop-in volleyball will last until Aug. 30. There will be no volleyball on Aug. 23.

Shogomoc Cyclers Club

On Wednesdays, from 6 p.m. until 7 p.m., at the Shogomoc Railway Station, the Shogomoc Cyclers Club invites you to a fun, even bike ride. Biking is the perfect exercise for all fitness levels and a great

way to build endurance. The cost is $1 per person. On your mark, Get set, Go! Contact (506) 392-6763 ext 205 for more information.

Tunesday in the Park Riverside Park, 9173 Main Street, Florenceville-Bristol, is hosting its Tunesay in the Park again. Between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m., bring your own bug spray and chairs to enjoy some free live music. In case of rain, the location will move to Second Wind Music Centre, 16 Curtis Road. Visit Carleton North on Facebook to see the lineup!

Bingo Night

Every Sunday at 7 p.m., grab your friends and family for some fun Bingo at the Kin Club of Florenceville, 381 Centreville Road. It’s a fun evening with tons of laughter. You don’t want to miss it.

Go Connection in Lakeville

A camp full of activities for kids aged 10 to 13 is happening at the Lakeville Community Centre. Call (506) 596-9503 to book your spot or email terry@goconnection769.omnicrosoft.com.

Hartland Farmers Market

Are your Saturdays boring? Stop by the Hartland Farmers Market between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. at the Hartland Pavilion Park. Meet the numerous vendors selling their locally made food and creations. The market will stay open until Oct. 12. For more information on becoming a vendor, contact hartlandfarmersmarket@ gmail.com or visit Facebook at Hartland Farmers Market.

Bleacher Seat Plaques

The Central Carleton Community Complex has a limited number of Bleacher Seat Plaques available. Commemorate a passed loved one or an alumni’s jersey number. Cost is $250 each. Visit https:// friendsofhartland.ca/seat-plaques to order your custom bleacher seat plaques.

Senior Cards Drop-In

Come and join your local seniors for a game of Tough 13 every Wednesday at the Covered Bridge Golf & Country Club, 190 Golf Road, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. You don’t want to miss out; it’s a great time!

Hartland Council Meetings

The Hartland Council invites you to attend its Regular Council Meetings, which are held every second Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m., and its Committee of the Whole meetings, which are held on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. The Meetings are held at the Hartland Town Hall, 31 Orser Street.

Notification System

It’s easier to stay in the loop! Sign up for Hartland’s Notification System to receive emails, voice messages, or texts on latest announcements & upcoming events or visit the Latest Notices section on Hartland’s town website or call (506) 3754356 ext 211.

Canterbury Days

From Friday, Sept. 20 to Sunday Sept. 22, join in some fun weekend activities to end the summer. There’s still time to make great summer memories, and Canterbury Days is the perfect way. For more information, check out Lakeland Ridges Ward 4 Rec Committee on Facebook.

Softball Tournament

Grab your friends and register as a team for the Canterbury Co-Ed Softball Tournament on Saturday, Aug. 17. Teams of 5/5 and 6/4 are suggested. At the end of the tournament, there will be a barbeque for players and the public. More information is on Facebook at Lakeland Ridges Ward 4 Rec Committee.

Magazine Swap

The Gathering Place is holding a Magazine Swap for anyone looking to get rid of their read-through magazine and wants new reading material. Want to participate but don’t have a magazine to swap? No problem; just borrow and return one.

Place to Cool Down

Between the high temperatures and hu-

148th Anniversary Event in Kirkland

Are you putting your returnables in your curbside recycling bin?

Donate them to local Breakfast Programs through VAIL’S BOTTLE EXCHANGE IN WOODSTOCK!

Vail’s will donate the proceeds to local breakfast programs! Just tell them where you want your returnables refund to go when you drop them off!

midity, summer days can seem impossible to endure. The Gathering Place at the Nackawic Mall has got your back! Stop by between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to enjoy refreshing drinks and delicious snacks. There is always company and a jigsaw puzzle that needs solving.

Wheels to Wellness

W2W now has its own phone number available for people to call to book appointments. Anyone needing a drive for a medical appointment can call (505) 998-6660 or email nackawicareawellness@gmail.com. Drives within the Nackawic Millville are free; any outside the area requires a fee of $20. Please call 48 hours in advance.

Nackawic Market

Make your Thursday evening exciting by stopping by the Nackawic Market! Each week, there is a large selection of vendors. The Market is open between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.

St. David’s Presbyterian Church in Kirkland will celebrate its 148th anniversary and annual homecoming event on Sunday, Aug. 25 at 2 p.m.

Special musical performances will be provided by Tracey and Emily Burkhardt. Following the anniversary service, families, friends and guests are invited to stay for refreshments at the Kirkland Community Hall.

St. David’s Presbyterian Church was named a provincial historic site in 2005. It was built by the community of Kirkland in the late 1800s, primarily by Scottish, Irish and English settlers who came to the area as pioneers. The established date of the church is 1876. The community of Kirkland is named after St. David’s which was once referred to as the Scottish Kirk.

Located at 1589, Route 540 in Kirkland, St. David’s anniversary and annual homecoming gathers together friends and visitors from throughout New Brunswick, Ontario and the State of Maine.

Shoppers Drug Mart

Hartland

Nackawic-Millville

River Bend Balloon Fest

7thAnnual

14 HOT AIR BALLOONS

Flights from

Thursday to Monday

6:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. (weather dependent)

Want to soar above the landscape?

Visit: riverbendfestivals.com/balloonfest/reservation

Cost: $250 per person.

Cash only and you must pay when you ride.

Questions? Contact (506) 425-0819 or email riverbendballoonfest@gmail.com

Thanks to our friends at Superior Propane for their ongoing support!

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Thursday, August 29

Hot Air Balloon Flights 6:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. (weather dependent)

Friday, August 30

Hot Air Balloon Flights 6:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. (weather dependent)

Saturday, August 31

Hot Air Balloon Flights 6:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. (weather dependent)

Saturday Market from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Stop by and visit with artisans, vendors, service clubs, plus musical entertainment.

Bingo from 1 to 3 p.m.

May the numbers be ever in your favour! Down River Band from 7 to 11 p.m. Balloon Glow at dusk. (weather dependent)

Sunday, September 1

Hot Air Balloon Flights 6:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. (weather dependent)

Bath Regional Fire Department Brunch 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost: by donation Location: at the Fire Hall.

Hot Air Balloon Tethered Rides

10:30 a.m. (approx.) Cost: $10 cash per person - lasts as long as conditions permit. (weather dependent)

Vehicle Show from 12 to 4 p.m. Free registration, 50/50, door prizes with proceeds going to the school food program. (weather dependent)

Fun at the Fair Grounds 1 to 4 p.m.

Face painting, potato-themed games, lawn games and more!

Hot Air Balloon Pilot Meet & Greet 3 to 4 p.m.

Monday, September 2

Hot Air Balloon Flights 6:30 a.m. & 5:30 p.m. (weather dependent)

Trevors/Goodine Professional Lumberjack Competition

$10 pp, children under 12 FREE, 50/50 draw

Voted the best competition of 2023 by the Maritime Lumberjack Association

Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Phone: 506.595.0335 Fax: 1.866.543.4788 Email: sfmlaw1973@gmail.com 4714 Juniper Road, Florenceville-Bristol, NB, E7L 2J6 HOURS:

RVS SUNSHINE KID

Meet Myah Rose LeBlanc. Myah is 11 years old and a wonderful sister to Landon and Emma. She loves to play all sports, but especially soccer and basketball. She also loves to hang out with her best friend Emilee, enjoys meeting new friends, doing her best at school, and making people laugh.

If you’d like your child included in our Sunshine Kid feature, please send a little bio and a photo to the email below.

Submit your sunshine kid(s) photos & info to theresa@rivervalleysun.ca

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.”

MARISA PELKEY

Relief for your budget: fresh produce at a low cost

Community Food Smart is helping families afford high-quality produce

Story and photos by Paige Morgan

W

ith the cost of groceries today, many families face significant challenges in their quest to live a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Community Food Smart understands this struggle and is trying to help, ensuring that people who belong to their bulk-food buying program can nourish themselves with the best fruits and vegetables, often provided by local farms.

Community Food Smart is more than just a provincial bulk foodbuying club. It’s a community with a shared sense of responsibility. Each local host partner and their volunteers work together to make fresh produce accessible. Depending on where you live, monthly fees range from $15 to $20. Most bags contain approximately $35 to $40 of fresh produce.

“It’s a very fair price, and I don’t think anybody could argue with that,” said Monica Grant, Executive Director of the Valley Food Bank.

The once-a-month food program gets members to pay for their bag or bags a week before. You come to the pick-up point and get your food on pick-up day. Community Food Smart asks members to return their bags, which are reused in the next cycle, ensuring a sustainable and environmentally friendly distribution system.

Gail Farnsworth organizes the Nackawic branch under the name Bulk Buying Bag. Farnsworth has 12 volunteers who help pack bags for between 70 and 100 members. Winter is their busiest time

of year. Farnsworth says member rates in the summer go down due to many having home gardens or being away on vacation.

Stephanie Levesque is organizing Community Food Smart for the Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation). She says her community currently has an average of 40 members per month.

Victoria Hutt, the organizer for the Florenceville-Bristol branch, has 230 members and 30 to 40 volunteers. Hutt says many members volunteer to give back.

“I often am able to join the volunteers when packing the produce bags. It is a heartwarming experience to see the multigenerational group prepare the bags,” said Community Food Smart member Laurea Shaw.

In Woodstock, their branch has reached a high of 275 members since their July pick-up day.

Farnsworth said the biggest benefit is the cost savings.

“I’m not having to go to the grocery store as much, and that saves me money in the end because I’m not doing those impulse buying,” said Farnsworth.

A bonus to Community Food Smart is the opportunity for members to try new vegetables and recipes. Community Food Smart encourages people to expand their taste buds and incorporate new ways of nourishment.

Many schools have incorporated Community Food Smart with their backpack programs, ensuring students acquire

proper nutrition.

The only obstacle for Community Food Smart is the need for a delivery service. Transportation is a problem for those who cannot pick up their bags, resulting in many people not signing up. Farnsworth says they are hesitant to deliver because they want to avoid members taking advantage of volunteers.

“Anybody who is outside of the Woodstock area might have a hard time getting in,” said Grant.

Some members of the greater Woodstock community have ordered and donated Community Food Smart bags to the Vally Food Bank, which distributes and sometimes delivers to their clients.

Grant believes the Community Food Smart program could benefit from partnering with a cab service or Royal Rides.

Community Food Smart bags are full of fresh produce and are available for purchase monthly.

Tammy Dunbar is one of many people who help during pick-up days. Here she checks off names and hands out bags at the Woodstock Baptist Church.

Kristina Derrah and her daughter Lily pick up their monthly Community Food Smart bag in Woodstock. Kristina is happy to be able to get high-quality produce at a cheaper price.

End of a difficult chapter

Bath Middle School demolition begins

By Sandra Hanson

After sitting vacant for over five years, the abandoned Bath Middle School has finally begun demolition. On Monday, July 15, the construction company was seen setting up protective barriers in preparation for the project. By Sunday, Aug. 11, the school had been partly dismantled.

When asked if there was a timeline for completing the work, District of Carleton North Mayor Andrew Harvey told the River Valley Sun that, to date, they have not received any estimates on how long demolition

should take.

“We’ve asked to have a meeting with the contractor, but that hasn’t happened yet,” said Harvey. “We’re certainly hoping it’s done by the end of August for when kids go back to school. We don’t want them having to go through a construction zone.”

The property, which the provincial government owns, has been vacant since February 2019, when the province abandoned its plans to renovate the school.

Harvey said the school had become unsightly

and dangerous, especially given its proximity to Bath Elementary School. Anglophone School District West officials asked the Department of Education to repair the building or tear it down. The province chose to tear it down and released a tender for the project in June of this year.

Bennett Construction Group of Millgrove, O.N., was awarded the contract.

When asked about the property’s future, Harvey said there are no official or immediate plans for the lot.

Big Brothers Big Sisters teaches valuable lessons while having fun

Carleton-York organization’s summer programs have been a success

By Paige Morgan

T he young people in the Woodstock area have been having an eventful summer thanks to the Big Brother Big Sisters of Carleton-York summer programs Go Girls! and Thrive!

Both programs are free of charge and offer fun activities while teaching essential life skills that will benefit them in the future.

“Many folks don’t know about the programs Big Brothers Big Sisters offers and the benefits to the kids,” said Big Brothers Big Sisters of CarletonYork president Karen Taylor.

Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Go Girls! is for young girls entering Grades 6 to 8. The program focuses on empowering participants and providing positive role models to create a healthy environment for the girls.

Go Girls! preaches their motto, Healthy Body, Healthy Mind, to the young women.

Since July 15, Go Girls! has met every Monday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., excluding New Brunswick Day.

The last session was on Aug 12. Go Girls! provides a variety of

activities that prepare adolescent girls for any situation. Girls learn self-defence, decisionmaking, and breathwork. Not only does Go Girls! teach essential skills, but they also offer fun activities such as games, smoothie making, and kayaking.

“Our goal with Go Girls Summer was to provide a safe space where female-identifying youth could come and take part in healthy habits for both body and mind,” said Esther Vaswani, the Executive Director for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Carleton-York.

Big Brothers Big Sisters’ new pilot summer program, Thrive!, is geared towards all youth entering Grades 5 to 8. Since July 9, Thrive! has met on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at St Gertrude Hall, 111 St Gertrude Street. The last day will be Friday, Aug 22.

The Town of Woodstock and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Carleton-York are working together to produce a variety of youth-based activities that provide kids with a fun and positive environment.

“I am delighted that

we have the opportunity to partner with the Recreation Department of the Town of Woodstock to offer Thrive!,” said Taylor.

Thrive! teaches kids resilience, confidence, and self-esteem while gaining new friendships and social skills.

Both summer programs promote the importance of community involvement and show participants the good that can come from helping others.

“We aim to provide fun, positive, interactive learning opportunities while focusing on the importance of being involved and giving back to the Woodstock community,” said Vaswani.

Carolyn at (506)

Get clothing bargains for the whole family while supporting the Valley Food Bank. Shop for quality used clothes and household items!

We accept donations, and couldusemoremen’sclothing. Mon - Thurs 9 am - 4:30 pm Friday 9 am - 3 pm

Riverside has many opportunities to come together and socialize! Residents enjoy time in our dining room,with great food and great conversation. Call Carolyn today!

The Bath Middle School is being dismantled after years of being dormant. (Sandra Hanson photo)

On July 29, Go Girls spent some time on the water with Wolastoq rentals learning to kayak. Go Girls is part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters Carleton-York’s summer programs for youth. (Submitted photo)

Wild parsnip growing concern in Carleton County

Invasive plant’s sap harmful to humans and animals

By Sandra Hanson

Aphototoxic invasive plant species imported from Europe and Asia is causing problems for District of Carleton North residents.

According to the Canadian Invasive Species Centre, Wild Parsnip, whose root is edible, is an invasive species that spreads rapidly and “outcompete[s] native plants, reducing biodiversity and the quality of agricultural forage crops such as hay, oats, and alfalfa.

“It can also affect crop pollination as honeybees do not visit the plant, and it’s known to “disrupt pollinatorfriendly plants such as goldenrod.” The rapid spread has farmers concerned.

Anna Belliveau, CEO of the Agricultural Alliance, told the River Valley Sun that they have formed a working group that includes representatives from the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DTI) and a weed specialist from the Department of Agriculture. The group’s mission is to find out how widespread the issue is so that the DTI can increase its 2025 budget to combat the spread of the plant by “mowing affected areas before [the plants] goes to seed and gets into the fields.”

However, the danger of the plant’s spread extends beyond its effect on crops. As a phototoxic species, the plant’s sap is harmful. When skin comes into

contact with the sap (brushing up against the plant), it can cause a severe, painful, burning and blistering rash. If any of the sap gets in your eyes, it can cause temporary or even permanent blindness.

As for the plant’s effects on animals, a technician with Woodstock Veterinary Clinic told the River Valley Sun that while an animal’s fur often protects it from skin reactions, the sap is toxic when ingested when the animals clean themselves, eat the plant directly, or consume water surrounding the plant.

According to information distributed by Service Ontario, if large livestock ingests the plant, it can cause fertility and weight issues. For smaller animals such as cats and dogs, the effects of ingestion can be even more extreme and, according to the ASPCA, include symptoms such as “diarrhea, seizures, tremors, bloat, respiratory depression, and death.”

Carleton North council members raised concerns about the plant’s threat at the municipality’s July 23 meeting.

Deputy Mayor Karen Hargrove noted that the plant is growing alongside roads throughout the county and is no longer just an “agricultural concern.”

Councillor Angel Connors pointed out that a large patch of dangerous weed is growing behind the Northern Carleton Recreational Centre by the

ball field, posing a risk to children.

Councillor Scott Oakes expressed his concern that if left unchecked, it will “get to the point that you can’t walk down to the brook to fish or go for a walk in the woods without risk of coming into contact with it.”

Unfortunately, there are no quick fixes, and eradication efforts will take years. For now, the Nature Conservancy of Canada has some recommended measures that property owners can take.

For small patches, they suggest digging up the plants (including the roots) “when they are still small in the spring. Plant material should be left to dry and then left in black garbage bags in the sun for a week or more prior to disposal in a landfill.”

For larger areas, they recommend mowing and covering with tarps to prevent regrowth or the use of herbicides in the spring or fall. They warn that people should use “extreme caution to avoid skin contact with the plant,” including wearing protective equipment such as gloves, coveralls, and goggles” when removing the plant.

District of Carleton North Mayor Andrew Harvey encourages residents to report any patches of the plant they find to the district office so it can be handled accordingly and so they can relay the information to DTI.

The sap of wild parsnip can cause skin burns in humans and if consumed, can make animals sick. (File photo)

Safe, reliable, low-cost transportation

Urban/Rural Rides: getting

By Paige Morgan

I

n February 2023, Urban/Rural Rides began helping seniors and low-income families in the Northwest parts of New Brunswick get to their medical appointments or the food bank. As of June this year, the community transportation service has grown to help 480 clients across New Brunswick.

Urban/Rural Rides is not a taxi service. The registered charity currently depends on 16 community volunteer drivers from Plaster Rock to Lakeland Ridges. Clients can call ride coordinators to inform them about an upcoming appointment, and from there, the coordinator seeks out a volunteer driver who is available to pick up and return the client home.

With medical appointments at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital in Fredericton or the Upper River Valley Hospital in Waterville, Urban/ Rural Rides is an affordable option for seniors and low-income families who can not afford a taxi and have no other way to their appointments.

“People might not have family or friends to take them to their appointments, or they

might be new to the area and not know anyone, that’s where Urban/Rural Rides comes in,” said Wendy Marr, the Community Development Coordinator with the Western Valley Regional Service Commission.

Urban/Rural Rides stands out from other transportation services because of its low prices.

A taxi in New Brunswick costs around $2.75 per km. Urban/Rural Rides offers subsidized rates of 25 cents per km for lowincome and seniors who have guaranteed low-income supplements and old age security. Their regular rate is 70 cents per km. A taxi round trip from Woodstock to the Upper River Valley Hospital costs $50. An Urban/ Rural Rides client pays between $4.50 and $12.60 a round trip.

Clients can trust their drivers due to the in-depth screening process volunteers must undergo. Each volunteer driver must be at least 21 years old and have a Class 5 license. They must also undergo a police background check and have a valid vehicle inspection to ensure their vehicle meets the Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Marr says “friend-

people where they need to be

ships have been made” through their system. Because many rides are long, it allows time for drivers and clients to connect.

“It’s really good to connect people. Clients find someone they enjoy over others and enjoy that time in the vehicle with them and talk about whatever they want,” said Marr.

Urban/Rural Rides plans to expand its clientele to include those waiting to get their license and those with moderate disabilities. While the current system gears toward transportation to appointments and food banks, Urban/Rural Rides would like to provide services for non-urgent occasions like concerts or seeing a movie.

This future goal depends on the number of volunteers. Having more volunteers makes it easier for their current dedicated drivers.

“The more we have, the more we can do,” said Marr.

Marr believes Urban/ Rural Rides is the perfect place to volunteer because of its flexibility. Local rides allow volunteers to visit family while waiting for their clients, and longer trips will enable them to run errands.

“If they’re a Costco member and they take somebody to Oromocto or Fredericton to see a specialist and they’re in there for a couple of hours, you can run to Costco and get your groceries,” said Marr.

Cathy Gallivan is one of the first Urban/Rural Rides volunteer drivers.

When her uncle got sick, she and her brother would drive him to his medical appointments, which sparked a question in her mind.

“While we were doing this, I found myself wondering how people who didn’t have any family managed. So when I heard that an organization was starting up in Carleton County, I went to an information session and signed up immediately,’ said Gallivan.

Gallivan recently moved to the Frederic-

ton area and transferred to the capital region’s program as a volunteer driver. She said volunteering with Urban/Rural Rides has been very fulfilling, noting that her volunteer work made her realize how fortunate she is to be healthy and how she can use her good health to help others.

Volunteer drivers are reimbursed for their mileage at a rate of 50 cents per km. Volunteers must have two million liability on their vehicle insurance, and Urban/ Rural Rides will reimburse up to $80 of that cost.

For anyone interested in becoming a client or a volunteer driver, information is available on the Urban/Rural Rides website, urbanruralrides.ca.

“It’s completely worth it,” said Marr.

EMAIL: jim@ rivervalleysun.ca or theresa@ rivervalleysun.ca

LET US HELP YOU GET NOTICED!

Local woman among 2024 Order of New Brunswick recipients

Karen ‘Kippy’ Taylor recognized for life-long work in helping others, community

The provincial government announced the 2024 Order of New Brunswick recipients on New Brunswick Day, Aug. 5, and Carleton County ‘s Karen ‘Kippy’ Taylor is on the list.

The award honours current or former longtime residents of New Brunswick who have demonstrated a high level of individual excellence and achievement in any field and have made outstanding contributions to the social, cultural, or economic well-being of New Brunswick and its residents.

Currently the chair of Service New Brunswick, she has chaired and been a member of numerous volunteer boards throughout her professional life.

While director of education at the New Brunswick Human Rights Commission from 1989 to 2001, her keen sense of leadership enabled her to play a significant role in developing public policy throughout the province, promoting inclusion and non-discrimination based on race, gender, sexual orientation, disability or age.

She has also been a key advisor in the strug-

gle for equality for First Nations women and men.

In particular, she supported bringing Sandra Lovelace’s case before the United Nations Human Rights Committee, which led to Parliament repealing a discriminatory section of the Indian Act.

Taylor has been a member of the Faculty of Management Advisory Board at the University of New Brunswick (UNB) since 2007, where she has been a champion of fairness, equality and respect. While serving as a member and president of the Alumnae Executive Council of UNB, she was committed to encouraging young women through networking opportunities, supporting participation in leadership roles, identifying unmet needs of female students, and working towards meeting those needs. She has also undertaken innovative volunteer work, such as implementing a mock interview program for students.

During her time with the UNB board of governors from 2012 to 2016, she offered a woman’s perspective, good governance and an appreciation for passionate young minds.

When the New Bruns-

wick Community College became a Crown corporation, Taylor served on its inaugural board of governors from 2010 to 2015.

When she retired, she returned to her hometown of Woodstock and established her own consulting practice, working with organizations such as NB Power and the Beaverbrook Art Gallery. In addition to being the first woman president of Boys and Girls Clubs of Canada and a leader of the 2nd Woodstock Girl Guides unit, she continues to help local volunteer organizations improve their board governance and fundraising capacity, just as she once did with the Muriel McQueen Fergusson Foundation.

In 2023, she co-authored a book, Celebrating the Legacy of Golf and Curling in Woodstock, New Brunswick: The First 70 Years, with the proceeds donated to the Woodstock Golf and Curling Club’s Legacy Fund. She is also president of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Carleton-York, the Kings Landing Foun dation, and a member of the Andrew and Laura McCain Art Gallery.

nized for her expertise in voluntary leadership and

contributions to the community with the Celebration of Women Millennium Project Award, the Governor General’s Commemorative Medal, the Silver Keystone Award, and the 2023 Citizen Recognition Award from the Town of Woodstock.

Taylor is receiving recognition from the Order of New Brunswick for her lifelong dedication to addressing injustice, improving others’ lives, and supporting ventures that improve her community, province, and country.

Other recipients include Kassim Doumbia, from Shippagan, who was awarded the honour for promoting the inclusion of immigrants, among other accomplishments.

Carmen Gibbs is from Grand-Bouctouche (district of Saint-Thomas de Kent) and is being recognized for her deep sense of commitment and exceptional accomplishments, and her profound desire to equip community organizations across New Brunswick to work

toward building a more open, vibrant and just so-

John Leroux of Fredericton is receiving the award for his outstanding vision, dedication, and commitment to the future of the province’s architecture and the protection of historic buildings, as well as for his passion for building an improved quality of life for generations to come.

Robert K. Irving of Moncton is being honoured for his extensive community involvement,

generosity, and exceptional altruism towards advancing his community and province.

“These people have many talents, tremendous perseverance and resilience, and they all want to improve the quality of life in their communities by pushing back barriers in their own way,” Premier Blaine Higgs said in the government release. “I congratulate these five individuals who will be added to the list of New Brunswick’s great builders.”

Woodstock’s Karen ‘Kippy’ Taylor has been named to the Order of New Brunswick. (Submitted photo)

ciety.

Starbucks now serving Carleton County customers

Fen’s Market opens specialty coffee shop in Woodstock

By Paige Morgan

F or years, Starbucks lovers in the Woodstock region had to drive an hour to Fredericton to purchase their Grande Frappuccino. Now, the worldwide trendy coffee shop has a location in Woodstock, allowing Carleton County folks to enjoy their favourite drink whenever they want.

Dwight Fraser is a co-owner of Fen’s Market. He said he and his team recognized how

RIVERSIDE RAMBLINGS

By Carolyn Brown

Life moves steadily on in the “big yellow house,” with the welcome mat out for residents coming to our newly opened Memory Care Unit and some new residents coming to live in the private side of our home.

We have seen some of our residents living in the private side of the home experience a decline in their health over the years, which Social Development assessed to transition to a fuller package of care in our Level 2 section.

Although a move can

popular Starbucks was among the people of Woodstock and decided it was time to bring the magic closer. “It’s a worldwide iconic brand, and we felt that Woodstock finally needed one,” said Fraser.

Fen’s Market’s Starbucks location meant a six-week construction period. Fraser says the building process went “very smoothly,” and they were lucky to keep the convenience store open daily during construction. The coffee

shop officially opened its doors to customers on July 15. Since the Woodstock Starbucks opened, employees have been working hard, seeing a large influx of customers daily.

A few days after their soft opening, Fraser and his co-owners, Scott and Laura Fraser, welcomed Starbucks executives Kara Meldrum and Mark Mussio to their Gallop Street shop so the corporation could see the success of their newest location.

With fond memories....

always be a challenge for any senior, we have had many family members tell us how much less invasive it is for their loved one to move to a different available space in the same home versus having to go to a new building. If their assessment by SD indicates they are a Level 2, that can happen if we have spaces available.

Our Memory Care is a Level 3 B, with the assessment for admittance again having to be done through Social Development. Staff at MacLeod Riverside Court can offer information to families to help you start the process for your loved one. The private side of our home offers studios, one-bedroom, and twobedroom units, which allow seniors to continue to live somewhat independently with help available as needed, in-

cluding laundry, cleaning, and meals. Health Care is also available at an additional fee should a resident become ill and need some temporary assistance. MacLeod Cares—it’s what we do!

And let me say, our residents care also. We very recently had two residents pass away in the same week, quietly sleeping away overnight, which has weighed on the hearts of everyone, staff and residents alike.

As much as we hear the words “isn’t that a great way to go?”, it doesn’t erase the sense of loss in missing them about our hallways, at activities and in our dining room. And for me, seeing one of them sitting outside my window enjoying the fresh air all bundled up, even in the colder weather, was a treat I miss!

I was privileged to

use my Sunday Church Service time as a Memorial Service to honour their memories, and it was especially nice to have their fellow neighbours share memories when I invited them to do so. In the midst of sorrow, there was laughter mixed with tears.

As the river continues to flow, the deer frolic on James’s newly mown grass and we embrace what is to be

the last month of summer, we cherish what we have to celebrate, each other. Even as we mourn and have heavy hearts, we need to recognize the comfort we can be to each other.

Whether it’s a smile, a visit, or a kind word, the support we offer each other is what makes our community so special. I want to take a moment to express my gratitude for each and every one

of you. As I continually witness measures of kindness here in our home, it affirms for me how so many people from all walks of life can come together and be neighbours with respect and dignity for each other. Riverside residents, it’s what you do!

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

From left, Starbucks executives Mark Mussio and Kara Meldrum are joyed to see how successful Fen’s Market owners Dwight Fraser, Laura Fraser, and Scott Fraser have made Starbucks in Woodstock. (Paige Morgan photo)

Liberals nominate Marisa Pelkey to run in Woodstock-Hartland

Woodstock woman says now is the time for change

RIVER VALLEY SUN

Woodstock’s Marisa Pelkey will represent the Liberal party in the provincial election this October, running in the riding of WoodstockHartland against incumbent MLA and cabinet minister Bill Hogan.

On Friday, Aug. 2, local Liberals chose Pelkey at their nomination meeting at the Y’s Men Club in Woodstock.

Provincial Liberal leader Susan Holt was present, sharing her vision for a more affordable

New Brunswick with the 50-plus people who attended the event.

“We are going to treat your power bill like an essential item, we are going to implement a rent cap, we are going to fix the property tax system, and we are going to take the Higgs tax off of fuel. And we will also make sure every kid in New Brunswick has access to breakfast and lunch,” said Holt.

Holt’s Liberal plans include implementing a

rent cap, fixing the New Brunswick property tax system, and eliminating the provincial portion of the sales tax on fuel.

Born and raised in Woodstock, Pelkey told party faithful that she’s dedicated her career to public service and community advocacy.

Pelkey works in the public sector, supporting victims of crime who have to make their way through the court system.

“From an early age, I

knew I would be a helper when I grew up. I have worked most of my career in victim services. It is a job that I didn’t find; it found me. I hear from those in the riding that we need to help – with better access to primary care and more. Now is the time for change,” said Pelkey Holt was optimistic about her party’s chances at the polls this fall.

“We can win in Woodstock-Hartland and all 49 ridings because we have

Community dances for Jacuzzis

a team that is ready to bring care and compassion to the job,” said Holt.

Under New Bruns-

Centreville Elks Club dinner and dance help Riverview Manor afford special tubs

RIVER VALLEY SUN

On June 22, the Centreville community danced and enjoyed a steak at the Centreville Elks Club’s dinner dance fundraiser.

The local club partnered with the Riverview Manor Foundation to organize the dinner dance to raise money for the Tub Project.

“We had a great turnout. The dinner dance was very well attended,”

said Centreville Elks Club President Mitchell Gray.

The Riverview Manor Foundation started the Tub Project to install brand-new jacuzzi tubs in the manor.

The tubs will help seniors relieve tension, pain, and emotional stress while enjoying a soothing soak.

The goal of the dinner dance was to help meet the Tub Project’s money target of around $40,000. Each jacuzzi

tub costs $20,000.

The dinner dance had 70 attendees. By the night’s end, $3000 was raised for the Riverview Manor.

From left, Vernon Thomas, Elks Past Exalted Ruler and Board Director for the Riverview Manor, Nanette Walker, Registered Nurse and Riverview Manor Administrator, and Denise Grey, Registered Nurse and Elks Vice President. (Submitted photo)

11-year old from Hartland wins NB’s Got Talent contest

Iris Lloyd sings, plays piano to capture top spot at St. Andrews competition

RIVER VALLEY SUN

NB’s Got Talent had a history making weekend when they held their competition in St. Andrews on the New Brunswick Day long weekend.

At age 11, Hartland’s Iris Lloyd was the youngest competitor at the New Brunswick Talent Showcase held at the Kingsbrae Amphitheatre, and is now the youngest winner of the contest.

Lloyd, a Grade 6 student at Hartland Community School, played piano and sang You Say by Laura Daigle for judges. Lloyd was awarded $5,000 in prize money and for her efforts.

Marisa Pelkey, left, was nominated on Aug. 2 to carry the Liberal banner for the riding of Woodstock-Hartland in the upcoming provincial election. (Submitted photo)

wick Legislative Assembly Act, the election needs to be scheduled on or before Oct. 21.

Fellow in Yellow is on the ‘move’

I’m doing this for health, mobility, and recovery,’ says Trevor Redmond

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Fellow in Yellow is on the move. Pictou County, N.S. native Trevor Redmond is currently running through Quebec towards the Ontario border on a coast-to-coast challenge focused on inspiring people like those who inspired him.

Woodstock residents may have noticed the Fellow in Yellow pushing his uniquely designed cart as he ran through town on the hot, muggy Sunday, July 14.

The personable, gregarious Nova Scotian took a moment to escape the heat and share his remarkable story in an air-conditioned car before continuing his journey.

“I’m doing this for health, mobility, and recovery,” said a smiling Redmond, responding to the most obvious question: “Why?”

He explained that the focus of his Fellow in Yellow cross-country run is to reach people and assist them in finding the inspiration that has motivated him since his recovery from a serious leg injury as a 13-year-old in 1986.

“I almost lost my leg when I was hit by a car,” he explained.

Redmond explained the traumatic experience taught him over time to look beyond the limitations that the unfair and unfortunate accident placed upon him and to focus on the appreciation towards those who helped him recover.

More importantly, he needs to recognize his own role in his recovery. Redmond recounted how his several months of treatment at the Victoria General Hospital and his many surgeries helped him appreciate the vital role of healthcare workers. Almost 40 years later, dedicated teams of doctors, nurses and specialists face even greater challenges in a system that too often hinders instead of helping them.

Redmond shares his complete story, including his health and personal history, motivations, philosophy and up-to-date details about the Fellow in Yellow challenge online at www.thereandbackcanada.ca. You can also find him on various so-

cial media platforms as the Fellow in Yellow.

“The worst repetitive injury a person can get is sitting on their butt and doing nothing,” he said.

As he recovered from his injury, the teenaged Redmond drew courage from Fox’s 1980 Marathon of Hope, noting if what he could do on one leg symbolized the possibilities for a young man with an injured leg.

Redmond also had the opportunity to meet Hanson and join his foundation, inspiring his ongoing efforts to stay active, on the move and deliver messages to every Canadian he meets.

Luckily, Redmond explained, some of those he met are in a position to do something to improve healthcare delivery and strive to make the world around them accessible to everyone.

In 2017, Redmond met future Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston. While he doesn’t take credit for anything he said leading to future policy, he said Houston at least listened. And he believes he listens to the advice of experts in

the field of healthcare.

Redmond noted that one of his complaints to Houston surrounded the lack of access to medical records when travelling outside the province. He was happy to see the Houston government address the issue.

The Fellow in Yellow tour is only the latest in his ongoing efforts to stay in motion, communicate with others, and deliver a message about mobility from and to the people.

“The theme of my journey is ‘the more we move, the more we move others.’ he said. Redmond has moved plenty over the years.

“I’ve travelled over 28,000 kilometres and I’m still moving,” he said.

In various treks and tours over the years, Redmond estimated he walked 11,400 kilometres, biked 14,632, and, as he approached Woodstock, ran more than 2,300.

To ensure the Fellow in Yellow tour was a genuine cross-country journey, Redmond started in Halifax on March

26 but headed to Newfoundland and Labrador before tracking back through Nova Scotia, PEI and New Brunswick as he headed to B.C.

While trying to travel as far as possible each day, Redmond said his focus will remain on meeting people, hearing their stories, and sharing his and their stories with others.

Travelling alone, he camps overnight at the best site he can find. He said kind people along the way have offered beds in hotels and their homes.

Redmond encourages everyone to follow the Fellow in Yellow’s progress and learn his message by following

him online. Redmond also urges governments, communities, organizations and individuals to prioritize mobility.

You may not have to dress in bright yellow and run from coast to coast to make a difference. Redmond reminds everybody, which he spells “EveryBody,” that being active or helping others be active begins with a first step.

The Fellow in Yellow especially encourages every body to refuse to allow limitations to hinder their motion.

“Because you limp, it does not mean you’re broken. In fact, it displays you’re not.”

Trevor Redmond, the Fellow in Yellow, travelled through Woodstock on July 14 on his cross-country journey. (Jim Dumville photo)

A ‘driven’ young woman cycles coast-to-coast for mental health

By Jim Dumville –

Jade Dulle is a driven young woman. Her drive helped her overcome mental health challenges. It fuelled her efforts to pedal across Canada, from B.C. to Newfoundland and Labrador, on Jade’s Ride for Mental Health.

Dulle’s drive propels her to expand her knowledge, collect information and turn that knowledge and information into coast-to-coast policy changes to ensure everyone gains access to the mental health they need and deserve.

On Sunday, July 21, Dulle jumped into the Atlantic Ocean at Mile One in St. John’s, Newfoundland, completing a cross-country cycling challenge which began May 6 in Prince Rupert, B.C. Jade’s Ride finished as planned at the starting point of Canadian icon Terry Fox.

“Terry Fox, he basically laid the foundation for these trips,” Dulle said.

On July 12, during a brief stop at Tim Horton’s on Beardsley Road in Woodstock, Dulle explained the history and motivation for Jade’s Ride.

“I want to improve the mental outlook for Canadians,” said the spirited 28-year-old Saskatch-

ewan native.

Jade’s Ride is more than just completing a challenge. It is drawing attention to the mental health challenges millions of Canadians face in every province and territory. It is raising money for the Canadian Mental Health Association. Most importantly, it is about meeting and interviewing people to learn about their experiences with the mental health system.

Dulle said she talked to people and conducted interviews in each province during her cross-country journey. She talked to people hurt by the failed system, their family members, healthcare professionals and people supporting the system.

Dulle will use the gathered information for her thesis as she expands her Bachelor’s in Social Studies into her Master’s.

With the support of some politicians, mental health experts, law students, and others, Dulle plans to deliver her report to Parliament Hill on future mental health legislation next year.

Dulle also plans to publish papers detailing the mental health situations for each province, noting that the issue is a provincial jurisdiction.

However, she added, the foundation of care is based on federal laws and regulations protecting the rights of mental health patients nationwide.

“There must be something we can do to make the system better, adequate and accessible,” Jade said.

Dulle explained current laws only protect mental health patients institutionalized in a treatment centre.

“You’re only protected if you’re subpoenaed by the court or arrested,” she said.

Dulle pointed out existing legislation doesn’t protect those who volunteer for mental health services.

“If you’re mandated for mental health services, do you really want the services?” she asked.

Dulle knows from personal experience the difficulty in accessing mental health care and the lack of available support. Still, she was one of the lucky ones who managed to navigate the complex path to adequate care.

Dulle spent the first two years of her life in foster care before being adopted “into a wonderful family.”

She learned both her biological parents had schizophrenia.

Dulle began experiencing mental health symptoms at 18 years of age as she prepared for university. Her symptoms impaired her pursuit of her goals.

Dulle didn’t find the help she needed. The Saskatoon hospital lacked the resources required to help her.

She began her own research while studying social work to understand the system better. She reached out to her birth parents and learned their mental health history.

Over the next seven years, Dulle faced challenges with inadequate care, but upon graduation from university, she was better prepared to navigate the system. She accessed private care, which she personally paid for with the help of her family.

Within two months, she began to improve under private care.

“I actually felt better. I felt well,” Dulle said.

The young woman’s experience cemented her immediate and long-term goals.

While Dulle received the help she needed, she fully understood that care was beyond the reach of

millions of Canadians.

She knew most people lacked the knowledge and the funds to pursue private care.

Dulle made it her mission to pursue legislation to protect the rights of those seeking care and to ensure governments direct healthcare dollars to where they’re needed.

“We need to streamline those services, and people lining up at the door can actually get the attention and help they need,” she said. “I guarantee we can reintegrate those people really fast because they actually want the help, then follow up to see if they are stay-

ing on track.”

Before starting her Master’s thesis, Dulle took on her first cycling challenge, pedalling from southern Saskatchewan to Flin Flon, Manitoba, in 2017. She raised $25,000 for the Canadian Mental Health Association and attempted to destigmatize mental health issues.

With Jade’s Ride complete, Dulle will turn her focus to completing the job and enacting change.

“I have the knowledge and understanding, the support and maybe the political backing to do something,” she said. “It won’t happen overnight, but I’m motivated.”

Jade Dulle. (Jim Dumville photo)

COURT NEWS

A roundup of cases processed through Woodstock Provincial Court

By Judy Cole-Underhill

East Brighton man charged with attempted murder

Ozzie Jr. Trecartin, 30, of East Brighton, was charged with attempted murder when he appeared in provincial court in custody by video on July 30 for a bail hearing.

Trecartin was released from custody with conditions, including wearing an electronic monitoring device attached to his ankle. He was released under a $1,000 bail bond and will reside at a residence in Peel. He cannot possess firearms and is to have no contact with the alleged victim.

Trecartin will return to court for plea on Sept. 10 at 1:30 p.m. RCMP charged him with attempted murder, reckless discharge of a firearm at a place while a person was inside, two counts of indictable assault against another man, uttering threats, resisting arrest, possession of a firearm without a licence, and storage of multiple guns in a careless manner following an incident on July 21 at East Brighton. He was also charged with impaired driving on the same date in Peel.

Quebec man arrested with loaded gun

It took a spike belt to stop a vehicle from Quebec that was travelling in the wrong lane on the Trans Canada Highway that fled from police near Woodstock during the early morning hours of Aug. 5.

Frederick Garneau Watson, 42, of Saint Liguori, was arrested by RCMP near Maliseet Fuels at Wotstak (Woodstock First Nation) on Aug. 6. He appeared in provincial court in custody by video on charges of dangerous driving, flight from police, assault, and obstruction.

Watson was released with conditions under a $3,500 bail bond and ordered to return to his residence in Quebec. He returns to court for plea in Woodstock on Sept. 3 at 9:30 a.m.

Police laid charges after a report of a vehicle travelling in the wrong lane on Highway 2 around 1:30 a.m. It was later spotted driving erratically in the Maliseet Fuels parking lot. The vehicle attempted to flee the scene. Police deployed a tire deflation device to stop it. The driver was arrested at the scene where police found a loaded handgun in the vehicle. Alleged armed intruder denied bail Mason Bustard, 18, of

Woodstock, appeared in court in custody by video on Aug. 8 for a bail hearing on charges laid by Woodstock Police. He was denied bail and remanded for plea on Aug. 20 at 1:30 p.m.

Bustard was charged with break and enter at a dwelling house and two counts of assault on July 27, breach of a release order, possession of prohibited weapons (a sawed-off shotgun and brass knuckles), possession of a firearm without a licence, and possession of a loaded prohibited firearm and ammunition without a licence on July 28, and uttering threats and causing injury to an animal (a dog) by kicking it on July 24.

Police made their arrest after spotting a suspect on Houlton Street around noon on July 28. The individual fled on a bicycle into the woods and was pursued by officers on foot. During the chase, the suspect discarded various items, including a sawed-off shotgun, brass knuckles, and a mask, which were retrieved later by an RCMP police dog.

On July 17, Bustard appeared in court in custody on other separate charges and was released with conditions. He was scheduled to return to court for a plea on Aug. 13 at 9:30 a.m., when he was re-arrested.

Woodstock Police charged him with breaking into a garage on Houlton Street, wearing a mask during the commission of an offence, possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace (a knife), assault with a weapon, and criminal harassment.

Bustard was arrested after police received a report of an armed intruder who entered a yard on Houlton Street on the morning of July 16 and approached a woman while holding a knife. The man’s face was partially covered with a mask or scarf.

He instructed the woman to go inside her house. She immediately complied and locked the door behind her. The man then went inside her garage before eventually leaving the area.

Thefts linked to online sales

Two Polish immigrants appeared in provincial court in custody on July 25 and were ordered out of New Brunswick after being nabbed for a series of thefts linked to the online sale of stolen goods.

Jan Kaminski, 53, and Monika Kwiatkowska, 44, of Etobicoke, Ontario,

were jointly charged by RCMP with four counts of theft. They were released from custody on a $1,000 bail bond and ordered to immediately return to their Ontario residence under house arrest.

Judge Henrik Tonning told the pair they had 24 hours to leave the province and ordered them to report to police as soon as they were released and back at their home in Ontario. They return to Woodstock Provincial Court for plea on Aug. 27 at 9:30 a.m. or must do so through their legal counsel.

The theft charges were laid following a series of shoplifting incidents at Best Home Hardware stores in Florenceville-Bristol and Hartland on March 5, Best Home Hardware in Florenceville-Bristol on July 3, and Brennan Home Hardware in Florenceville-Bristol on July 20.

Kaminski and Kwiatkowska were arrested in connection with numerous thefts in New Brunswick and across Canada including Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia. They allegedly advertised items for sale online via Facebook Marketplace and on Amazon. Once an interested buyer was identified, the two accused made a list of items and stole them from different businesses. They would then immediately ship the items to the buyer. Police are actively working to determine if there were other victims.

Sentencing adjourned for Cloverdale man

A Cloverdale man was expected to receive a federal prison term on Aug. 2 for shooting at a police officer. His sentencing was adjourned until Sept. 10 at 1:30 p.m. with the consent of both the crown and defence counsel.

Wyatt DeLong, 28, pleaded guilty to discharging a firearm with intent at a police officer, flight from police, dangerous driving, and indictable breach of probation in connection with an incident on July 14, 2023, at Florenceville-Bristol. DeLong has been in custody since his arrest.

Under the Criminal Code of Canada, a conviction for discharging a firearm with intent carries a potential prison sentence of five years for a first offence.

A co-accused, Janis Buchanan, 28, of Perth-Andover, appeared in provincial court in custody by video in September 2023 and pleaded guilty to

robbery with violence for an incident on May 29, 2023, at Florenceville-Bristol. She was sentenced to two years in federal prison.

RCMP arrested DeLong and Buchanan after a manhunt in Victoria County following a series of incidents in the Upper River Valley.

Sentencing rescheduled for Bloomfield man

Logan Sanders, 25, of Bloomfield, appeared in provincial court in custody for sentencing on July 30 after pleading guilty to several charges laid by RCMP. The sentencing was adjourned until Sept. 4 at 1:30 p.m. to allow for the submission of victim impact statements.

Sanders pleaded guilty to indictable dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene of an accident on April 26 near Meductic. He was arrested while attempting to cross the Woodstock/Houlton border.

The charges were laid following an accident when an oncoming car driving in the wrong lane forced a vehicle off the four-lane highway. A Plaster Rock woman and three youths were not injured when their vehicle left the highway and rolled over in the ditch after swerving to avoid the oncoming car.

Sanders also pleaded guilty to committing mischief by damaging a woodstove, walls, door and a table at a residence on Dec. 1-31, 2023, in Bloomfield, guilty to two counts of uttering threats on Sept. 1 in Bloomfield, and guilty to mischief by damaging doors and windows on Oct. 1-31, 2023, in Maple Ridge.

He pleaded not guilty to another charge of assault with a weapon (a knife) involving a male victim on Sept. 1, 2023, in Bloomfield. His trial date was set for Sept. 4 at 1:30 p.m. Sanders was denied bail on May 30. In custody on drug trafficking charges

Jacob Alexander Roy, 26, of Windsor, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Aug. 6 to answer drug and weapon charges laid by Woodstock Police. He was remanded to jail to await a bail hearing on Aug. 12 at 9:30 a.m.

Roy was charged with possession of methamphetamine and cocaine, both for the purpose of trafficking, breach of a release order, possession of a prohibited weapon (brass knuckles), and possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace in connection with an in-

These pages contain some of the court coverage we provide for the community. Find all court stories at rivervalleysun.ca

cident in Woodstock on Aug. 3. He was arrested on the weekend.

Roy is also scheduled to appear for trial in provincial court on Aug. 19 at 9:30 a.m. after pleading not guilty to four other charges. On Jan. 7, the RCMP charged him with breaching a release order. He was arrested and released with conditions, including wearing an electronic monitoring device attached to his ankle.

In November, Roy was charged with breach of a no-contact order for an incident on Oct. 20, 2023, in Woodstock. RCMP also charged him with assault involving a female victim and unlawful confinement concerning an incident on Sept. 11, 2023, in Woodstock. He pleaded not guilty.

Fined for impaired driving

Craig McKeen Cluff, 29, of Grafton, appeared in provincial court on Aug. 6 and pleaded guilty to an impaired driving charge laid by Woodstock Police. He was fined $2,500 and prohibited from driving for one year.

Cluff was charged following an accident on Feb. 18 on Main Street in Woodstock. He had no prior criminal record. 300 days = time served Stephen Forsythe, 65, of Charleston, also a dual citizen in Texas, was sentenced to 300 days in jail or time served when he appeared in provincial court in custody on July 25.

Judge Henrik Tonning released him from custody and ordered him to register with the federal DNA database. Forsythe had been in custody for seven months. He was arrested on a warrant in January and remanded.

Forsythe pleaded guilty to six charges, including causing a disturbance inside a store and resisting arrest on June 10, 2021, in Centreville; guilty to assault with a weapon (a knife) and committing mischief causing property damage to a vehicle; guilty to possession of firearms without a licence, and improper storage of a gun concerning an incident on June 14, 2021, near Centreville.

Forsythe had a prior criminal record. The court heard he stabbed a man in the hand and slashed the tires on a Ford F-150 halfton during an altercation.

Police seized two shotguns in his possession. Judge Tonning said Forsythe had 60 days to transfer the guns to a licensed gun owner, or they

would be forfeited to the crown.

Arrest warrants were issued for Forsythe and his two sons in May 2022 after they failed to appear in provincial court to answer charges laid by RCMP.

Crown Prosecutor Matthew Paik told the court on Thursday that arrest warrants for Graham Forsythe and Jock Forsythe were not yet vacated as other charges may still be pending.

The accused said his two sons were back in Texas and did not have criminal records. He asked the court to consider dropping the warrants for his sons as it could affect their citizenship status in the United States. He told the court he took responsibility for the crimes and intended to return to Texas after his release.

Arrested after boat crash

Douglas Thomas Defazio, 36, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on July 25 when his bail hearing was adjourned at the request of his defence counsel. He returns to court in custody for a bail hearing on Aug. 22 at 9:30 a.m.

Defazio was arrested by Woodstock Police shortly after a stolen boat crashed on the rocks of the Meduxnekeag River on July 10. He abandoned the boat and swam to shore.

He faces charges of breaking and entering a dwelling house, mischief causing property damage, and breach of probation in connection with a break-in at a residence on Houlton Street on July 10. More charges are pending, including possession of stolen property, theft, and breaching a recognizance. Defence Counsel Lindsay Paul told the court Defazio intends to enter a rehab facility if he is released following his bail hearing. Sentencing set for assault with torch Dustin Robert Davenport, 40, of Aroostook, appeared in provincial court in custody on Aug. 8 for his trial on multiple charges laid by RCMP. He changed his plea to guilty on several charges, and a sentencing date was set for Aug. 26 at 1:30 p.m.

Davenport appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Jan. 4 and was denied bail. He was charged by RCMP with aggravated assault involving a female victim, uttering threats, unlawful confinement, possession See COURT on pg. 29

Continued from page 28 COURT of a prohibited weapon (a handheld torch), and breach of probation for an incident on Dec. 12, 2023, near Perth-Andover when a woman was seriously burned during a domestic dispute.

Davenport pleaded guilty to the lesser offence of indictable assault causing bodily harm and uttering threats, and the crown withdrew breach of probation and the remaining two charges.

The court heard Davenport used a handheld torch to burn the victim on her back and then physically assaulted her. She was punched and kicked and suffered two black eyes, cuts and bruises in addition to the burn wounds on her back.

Davenport was also charged with uttering threats, breach of probation, breaching a no-contact order, assault involving another female victim, and forcible entry at a dwelling house in connection with a separate incident on Sept. 4, 2023, at Carlingford.

He pleaded guilty to the assault, breach of probation, and breaching a no-contact order and the remaining two charges were withdrawn by the crown. The court heard he was inside a residence when he jammed the victim with a door.

Davenport was also charged with dangerous driving for an incident on Oct. 13, 2023, at Perth-Andover when a man was allegedly dragged by a moving vehicle. The crown will withdraw this charge at his sentencing.

Fined for impaired driving

Lisa Kinney, 54, of Woodstock, appeared for trial in provincial court on Aug. 7 after pleading not guilty to an impaired driving charge laid by RCMP. She was found guilty after trial and received a $2,600 fine and a one-year driving prohibition.

Kinney was charged on June 25, 2023, near Wotstak (Woodstock First Nation).

Neqotkuk man fined for fleeing police

Kashius Kenneth Francis, 21, of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation), appeared in provincial court on Aug. 9 and pleaded guilty to one charge laid by RCMP.

Francis was charged with dangerous driving and fleeing police following an incident on Jan. 28 at Richmond Corner. He pleaded guilty to fleeing police and received a $1,500 fine. The crown withdrew the remaining charge.

The court heard police spotted a vehicle speeding on Route 555 around midnight. The driver fled, and shortly after, police located the vehicle off the road, surrounded by a group of people standing nearby. Francis admitted to being the driver; the rest were his passengers who had encouraged him to flee. He had no prior record.

Centreville man guilty after trial

Jared Oakes, 42, of Centreville, appeared in provincial court on Aug. 9 for a verdict following his trial on an impaired driving charge. He was found guilty and fined $2,000. Oakes was also sentenced to 30 days of house arrest and was prohibited from driving for one year.

He was charged by RCMP in connection with an incident on March 9, 2023, at Weston. The charge was laid after a man was found passed out in a truck in a private driveway around 5 p.m. The individual was slumped over behind the wheel with the vehicle still running. It took several minutes for the police to wake him up and make their arrest. A breathalyzer demand measured his blood alcohol level at three times the legal limit. Sentencing adjourned on drug charges

Stephanie Lynn Lockard, 41, of Jacksonville, was scheduled to appear for sentencing in provincial court on July 16 on drug charges laid by Woodstock Police. At the request of her defence counsel, the sentencing was adjourned until Aug. 20 at 1:30 p.m. A warrant will be kept on file until her new court date.

In April, Lockard appeared for trial in provincial court and changed her plea to guilty on a lesser included offence. She was charged with possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking and illegal possession of cannabis, stemming from an incident on Dec. 17, 2022, in Woodstock.

She pleaded guilty to indictable possession of methamphetamine and illegal possession of cannabis, and the trafficking charge was withdrawn. Guilty pleas on multiple charges

Kyle Lucas Stairs, 25, of Temperance Vale, appeared in provincial court in custody via teleconference on July 16 and pleaded guilty to multiple charges laid by the RCMP and Woodstock Police. His sentencing date was set for Aug. 19 at 1:30 p.m. Stairs has been in custody since April. He pleaded guilty to possession of

a stolen vehicle and theft of fuel for an incident on April 5 at Perth-Andover.

He also pleaded guilty to RCMP charges of possession of a stolen vehicle, possession of a stolen laptop, possession of a weapon while prohibited from having it (brass knuckles), mischief causing property damage to a police vehicle, and breach of probation concerning another incident on April 8 in Nackawic. The crown withdrew three other charges.

Stairs also pleaded guilty to charges laid by Woodstock Police, including flight from police, dangerous driving, driving while suspended, and breach of probation for an incident on April 8 in Woodstock. He also pleaded guilty to failing to report to probation between Dec. 5 and Dec. 8, 2023, in Woodstock. The crown withdrew one other breach of probation charge.

He also pleaded guilty to several charges from Edmundston court, including theft of a cell phone and breach of probation on Feb. 26, two counts of breaching a release order on March 24 and April 25, resisting arrest and breach of probation on Feb. 27, and theft of merchandise from the Pronature Store on Feb. 26. Awaiting sentencing decision

Trevor Lee Bear, Jr., 27, of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation), appeared in provincial court on July 16 for sentencing after pleading guilty to two of four charges laid by RCMP.

Following submissions from both the crown and defence counsel, Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean adjourned his decision until Aug. 27 at 1:30 p.m. The crown asked for a 14-month jail sentence for the accused, while the defence suggested a ninemonth conditional sentence of house arrest.

Bear was charged with prowling, breaking into a dwelling house, assault causing bodily harm involving a female victim, and taking possession of a minor without having lawful care or consent in connection with an incident on Feb. 1 at Neqotkuk. He appeared in provincial court in custody for a bail hearing on Feb. 5 and was released with conditions.

He pleaded guilty in April to assault causing bodily harm and breaking into a dwelling house. The crown withdrew the remaining charges.

On July 9, the court heard the incident involved a domestic dispute with Bear pushing his way into a residence and punch-

ing a woman in the face. Photos of her injuries were submitted into evidence by the crown. Bear had no prior criminal record.

The crown also recommended 18 months of probation and an order for Bear to register with the federal DNA database. He would also be prohibited from using firearms for 10 years and must have no contact with the complainant.

Defence Counsel Jonathon Martin told the court Bear was remorseful and struggled with mental health issues as a result of heavy cannabis use. Jacksonville man changes plea

Shayne Everett Cameron, 30, of Jacksonville, appeared for trial in provincial court on Aug. 7 and changed his plea to guilty on several charges laid by Woodstock Police and RCMP. His sentencing was set for Aug. 28 at 1:30 p.m.

Cameron pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm while prohibited (a sawed-off shotgun) for an incident on Jan. 24, 2023, at Juniper. A second charge of possessing a weapon dangerous to the public peace will be withdrawn at sentencing. The crown also agreed to withdraw another charge of possessing a stolen vehicle in Woodstock on April 11, 2023.

Cameron appeared in provincial court in custody on April 25 for a bail hearing and was denied bail.

Woodstock Police charged him with two counts of assaulting police with a weapon (a knife), robbery, possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace, possession of a stolen vehicle, theft of mail, uttering threats, assault with a weapon, flight

from police, dangerous driving, resisting arrest, and breach of a release order for an incident on Jan. 22.

On Aug. 7, Cameron pleaded guilty to possession of a stolen vehicle, assaulting police, assault while threatening to use a weapon (a knife), flight from police and dangerous driving. The remaining charges will be withdrawn by the crown at sentencing.

Woodstock Police laid the charges after locating a man in the passenger seat of a vehicle at a business on Connell Street. The man threatened the driver with a weapon, attempting to encourage the driver to flee. Police gained entry to the vehicle and attempted to remove the man when he grabbed a knife and attempted to stab the officers. Two officers sustained minor injuries in the incident. The driver then exited the vehicle, and the man got into the driver’s seat and fled the scene. A short time later, the vehicle was located in Perth-Andover by RCMP. A police dog located the individual, who was arrested without incident.

Cameron appeared in provincial court in custody on Jan. 23 and has been in custody since that time.

Previously, he was arrested on a warrant for failing to appear in court on Oct. 31, 2023. He pleaded guilty and will be sentenced when he returns to court on Aug. 28 when he will also be sentenced after pleading guilty to breaching a release order (curfew) in Woodstock on Nov. 16, 2023. The crown withdrew a charge of breach of an undertaking on Sept. 28, 2023.

Cameron was also charged with uttering

threats and assaulting another man on Oct. 28, 2023, at Greenfield. He pleaded not guilty. He was also charged with breach of a no-contact order and resisting police on Nov. 4, 2023, at Perth-Andover. He pleaded guilty to the breach and not guilty to resisting arrest.

Cameron was also charged with assaulting a female victim, assault with a weapon (a machete) and uttering threats for incidents between Sept. 8 and Sept. 13, 2023, in Woodstock. He pleaded not guilty. On Aug. 7, he agreed to sign peace bonds for the last three incidents; a trial on these matters will not proceed.

Sentencing set for

Meductic woman

Tori Madeline Snow, 20, of Meductic, appeared in provincial court on July 17 and pleaded guilty to an assault charge laid by RCMP. She will be sentenced on Oct. 22 at 1:30 p.m.

Snow was charged by RCMP with assaulting another woman, uttering threats, and theft of a safe following an incident on June 19, 2023, at Meductic. She pleaded guilty to the assault, and the crown withdrew the remaining charges.

Snow also agreed to sign a 12-month peace bond in relation to several other separate charges. She was charged with assault causing bodily harm to a male person, committing mischief causing property damage, and breaking into a dwelling house with intent to commit an assault concerning another incident on July 3, 2023, at Meductic. The peace bond will result in these charges being withdrawn.

Highlights and Features of Local Sports and Sporting Events

Brad Lawson’s long baseball journey takes him to Arizona Woodstock-area man looking forward to new role with L.A. Angels’

By Andrew McCormick

It’s a long drive from Grafton, New Brunswick, to Tempe, Arizona (AZ).

Brad Lawson will confirm to all of us that it’s a drive that entails twists and turns and requires a healthy reserve of determination.

Today, the Woodstock Minor Baseball product works out of Tempe, Arizona, as the Los Angeles Angels’ “Return to Performance Coordinator.”

Raised in Grafton, the 2001 graduate of Woodstock High School, was a solid player in his own right. Often coached in minor baseball by his father, Guy, and Bruce McMillan, Lawson’s game, upon graduation, took him west to the Prairie Baseball Academy in Lethbridge, Alberta.

After two seasons in Lethbridge, Lawson transferred to UNB in Fall 2004, continuing to play the game for the UNB baseball squad.

Most importantly, while at UNB, Brad was heavily influenced by Ken Seaman, the strength and conditioning coach for the UNB hockey team, one of the top university hockey programs in the country.

Working towards his kinesiology degree, Lawson volunteered his own time with the team and soaked up every chunk of advice Seaman shared.

“Ken was a great mentor, and with his knowledge and feedback, I realized I could make a career at this. The Woodstock Slammers gave me my first real position as their Strength and Conditioning Coach from 2007 to ‘09,” Lawson continues.

To complement his Bachelor of Kinesiology (the study of movement—kinesiologists use evidence-based research to treat and prevent injury and improve movement and performance), Brad attained his “Certified Strength Condition-

ing Specialist” certification through the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).

From there, Lawson saw opportunities through the NSCA’s job board.

“Jobs were mostly part-time (seasonal) so I was prepared to go almost anywhere. The Washington Nationals gave me my first break in 2009.”

That first internship with the Nationals organization led to another position in Harrisburg, PA, where Lawson met his future wife, Kristen.

More jobs followed in Florida stops as Lawson continued to gain valuable experience in part-time seasonal positions.

Did we mention determination?

“Then, in 2010, the Chicago Cubs gave me my first full-time job. I worked at A.A. in Tennessee and at AAA in Iowa for two full seasons.”

“In 2012 I joined the

Batter Up! For River Valley Softball Latest rankings

By Chlory Shaw

T

he River Valley Softball is a coed league based in Woodstock, Hartland, and Bath.

The 23 teams play weekly from Sunday to Thursday.

The league has three divisions: recreational, intermediate, and competitive.

The teams have had a great summer so far, and are excited about heading into the playoff season.

As of Aug 4, the

for this year’s action

standings for the division are as follows:

Recreational:

Mood Swings

Cutthroat Clippers Rednecks

Ayrbourne Cobra Chickens

Chill Town

Ump Yours Intermediate: Tobique Thunder Vipers

Average Joes

Molar Bears

DeFENders

Bowlacade

Free off the Couch

Base Invaders Competitive: Coldies Ballers

Black Brook Bats Red Devils Rez Dawgs Unregistered Weapons Bomb Squad High Tide Playoffs begin mid August.

The River Valley Softball League would like to thank the local businesses that have sponsored the teams.

Giants as a Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coach. After four seasons as a minor league coach, I became their Minor League Strength and Conditioning Coordinator. In 2019, I was promoted to the Major League Baseball Strength and Conditioning coach position with the San Francisco Giants.”

Lawson had achieved his personal goal of making the Major Leagues. He was a San Francisco Giant.

“At the Major League level. a day began with a 1 p.m. strategy meeting, centred around injury updates, training and treatment schedules and any adjustments which were needed,” Lawson explains.

Individual pre-game attention to players and on-field warmup sessions were also part of the game day preparation.

During the course of a game, players both in and out of the lineup may require attention. After post-game treatments for players are complete, Lawson’s day ended at about 11 p.m.

He remained in that position for five seasons. A major league season consists of a 162-game schedule within a 180-day time frame.

In January ‘24, another turn in the road presented itself to Lawson. After 12 seasons with the Giants, he became the Los Angeles Angels’ “Return to Per-

formance Coordinator.”

Brad and Kristen have settled in Gilbert, AZ, with their children Layla, age 8, and Jax, age 3. Lawson is extremely thankful for the balanced home time the position offers.

In short, Lawson oversees the process involved in getting injured players back to the playing field.

“The job combines strength and conditioning with rehabilitation,” Lawson explains.

“A pitcher may be coming off of Tommy John surgery. He’s not playing for 15 months. We have to be sure he comes back healthier and better than ever. All Injuries are time sensitive because a player’s career is short. When he’s injured, he’s not playing,” Lawson states.

Eight months into his

new role, Lawson relishes the opportunity ahead with the Angels. He sees Tempe as home for the foreseeable future.

Here in New Brunswick, four time zones away, Mom Judy and Dad Guy remain in Grafton, which Lawson also considers his home.

“I’ve been doing this for 16 years. I wanted to make a career in this field and built my resume by volunteering my time to different teams. I applied to jobs. You have to prepare to find jobs and I was determined. Anyone can do it.”

There’s that word again, one that defines Brad Lawson’s journey from Grafton and Connell Field to Major League Baseball.

Determination.

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. Meetings are 7 p.m. on last Tuesday of the month from March to Nov. at the Y’s Men Club in Woodstock Upcoming meetings: Aug. 27, Sept. 24, Oct. 29, Nov. 26. email: info@rivervalleyatv.com web: rivervalleyatv.com or like us on Facebook: River Valley ATV Club Inc

Woodstock-area native Brad Lawson as been named the L.A. Angels’ Return to Performance Coordinator. (Submitted photo)

(Chlory Shaw photo)

For the love of football WHS student and family putting in the travel to pursue a dream

By Andrew McCormick

Colt Stephens is a 15-year-old on a mission.

Living in Woodstock, where more traditional sports like basketball, hockey, baseball and soccer prevail, Stephens has chosen a different route and excels on the … football field.

He’s suited up the past three seasons as a linebacker for the Fredericton High School (FHS) Junior Varsity Black Kats. Stephens then does double duty in the spring and early summer as a three-time member of Football New Brunswick’s U14 and U16 Provincial programs.

While attending school in Woodstock, Stephens qualifies to play JV at FHS but cannot play for the varsity. He’d have to transfer schools to Fredericton and billet with a local family to be eligible.

For now, Stephens is entering Grade 10 at Woodstock High School, where, ironically, there isn’t a football program of any kind.

“I played hockey through my first year of Bantam. When the season ended, word got out about football starting up and my dad (Bobby) suggested I give it a try”, Stephens explains.

Organizers hoped enough interest would be generated to grow minor football in the Western Valley. Unfortunately, the program didn’t extend beyond season one.

However, Stephens found options to play in the provincial capital.

“I remember my first practice there. I like to tackle and I hit hard. When older players began encouraging me, I knew I was doing well. The coaches made me a captain for practice sessions”.

We could say a “Linebacker” was born at that very point.

When I Google the position of “linebacker,”

I see this: “the most versatile player on defence. They’re thought of as the quarterback of the defence. His role is to read the opposing offence and to call defensive plays and direct shifts and changes based on what the offence is doing. Linebackers are fast and physical”.

Stephens checks in at 5’11” and 170+ lbs. He trains at the AYR Motor Centre four times each week. He’s set a personal long-term goal “to take my game as far as I can. I’d love to play at a University like St. FX or Mount Al-

lison”.

His immediate goals would be to play Varsity football at FHS and make the New Brunswick Football U18 team.

“I have a lot of close friends there now and I’d love to win a provincial championship with the varsity at FHS.”

He understands he needs to continue to work on his game to progress.

“I can be too aggressive sometimes. I like to tackle and I’ve taken penalties for things like roughing the passer after the whistle.”

I’ll add here when it comes to aggressiveness and finishing plays, many a coach has said, ‘I’d rather reel a player in, than have to give him a push.’”

Colt continues, “My football sense isn’t the strongest, but my instinct is good. When I see a play developing on their offence, I can rely on my instincts to make quick adjustments on our defence.”

Time and travel are major challenges for Stephens and his family (Mom Kristen, Dad Bobby, and 12-year-old sister Lexi). Not helping is the fact Stephens is the only player west of Fredericton.

Playing JV at FHS while attending school in Woodstock means five trips to Fredericton each week (four practices, one game) during the fall season.

Secondly, making a provincial football team requires a commitment to weekend travel during the season. The team gathers for practice weekends from spring into July every weekend. The provincial team culminates play in a tournament against other provinces to test their mettle. Stephens’ NB U16 team played in the Eastern Challenge from July 16 to 21, 2024, at St. FX in Antigonish versus NS, Quebec, and Ontario.

Colt recognizes the significant commitment his family makes. He also recognizes his teammates and drops a few names of coaches: “Coaches like Kevin Cormier, Mike Plume, and Phillip Long have been great. They’re encouraging and make it fun.”

Through the obstacles and major time commitments, Stephens tellingly began and ended our interview by repeating three words, which made me believe he’d achieve the goals he’d set for himself.

“I love football.”

Forever Fine Thrift

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Wednesday: 11 to 5:30 p.m.

Thursday: 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. Friday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

844 Main Street, Woodstock, lower parking lot

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These three depots provide the same service as the blue, wheeled carts for household recycling. In 2023, these three depots diverted nearly 17 tons of recycling, and have the capacity to do so much more. Please contact fred.thompson-brown@ rsc12.ca if you have any questions about your local recycling depots.

Woodstock’s Colt Stephens has been a linebacker for FHS Junior Varsity Black Kats for the last three seasons. (Submitted photo)