River Valley Sun Vol. 1 Iss. 11 December 2019

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Volume 1 Issue 11

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December 15, 2019 to January 15, 2020

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2020 RECYCLING CALENDAR INSIDE

NOT A TYPICAL LIBRARIAN

WOODSTOCK’S JENN CARSON A MOVER AND SHAKER

By JIM DUMVILLE

I

f you’re looking for a stereotypical librarian, that’s not Jenn Carson.

The manager of the L.P. Fisher Public Library in Woodstock loves literature and promotes literacy, but she’s also always on the go as a yoga teacher, an author, an artist, a blogger, a martial artist, an innovator, a mother of two, and simply a mover and shaker.

In fact, she was officially named a 2019 Mover and Shaker Award winner

by Library Journal, North America’s best-known library magazine.

The journal recognized Carson’s physical literacy initiative, which included, among other things, com-

bining yoga and literacy.

Carson is a pioneer in physical literacy. Actually, you can honestly say she wrote the book on it.

Carson’s book “Get Your Community Moving, Physical Literacy Programs for All Ages” was published last year by the American Library Association.

Already teaching yoga to children, she started a program when she landed her first library job in Kennebecasis.

She then took her adult yoga training and has been teaching ever since.

Carson began her working career with the province in museum ser-

vices, before switching to library services in Kennebecasis. From there, she became a school librarian.

She later moved to Fredericton where she supervised bookmobile services, then accepted a position as student-life coordinator at the College of Craft and Design.

“As I was doing that I finished up my masters in library science and starting applying for numerous library positions.

That brought Carson and her two sons, Ben and Oliver, now 12 and 7 respectively, to Woodstock in 2015.

Continued on page 2

Librarian and L.P. Fisher Public Library Manager Jenn Carson (Jim Dumville photo)

REMEMBERING ‘HEARTBEAT’ OF THE OPERATION GOLF AND CURLING CLUB MOURNS MANAGER ROBBIE BURNETT

By ANDREW MCCORMICK

W

Robbie Burnett, 1955 – 2019. (Photo submitted)

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oodstock golfing legend and Sports Wall of Famer Lou Beatty recruited Robert James Burnett as the new Woodstock Golf Club Professional in 1987.

Known as “Robbie” to everyone, Burnett died on Nov. 23, 32 years after arriving in Woodstock. Club members, friends and the community reflect on the man, who for more than three decades, was the face of Woodstock’s golf and curling club.

“The heartbeat of the operation,” was how club President Jeff Clowes de-

10,000 cars per week.

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scribed Burnett.

At the time of his death, Burnett, as club manager of both golf and curling, was the person to contact for any and all club business.

Best friend Kirk Calhoun says one of Burnett’s favourite club-related activities involved instructing children on the finer points of golf, every Wednesday morning.

“Robbie loved the kids.

He let his guard down around them and made them laugh,” said CalContinued on page 2

10/day.

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try the sign.

2

LIBRARIAN Continued from page 1

“I wanted the boys to grow up in a small town,” she said, “Woodstock looked like a perfect place to raise small children.”

Carson said her arrival in Woodstock a year after the completion of the major expansion of the L.P. Fisher Library, with the addition of the Thompson Centre, “dovetailed” nicely with her desire to add new innovative programs to the library services.

Carson has a vision of what she wants a library to be.

“I wanted to create the kind of place where I wanted to hang out,” she said.

Carson wants the library to be a welcoming place with plenty of interest for everyone. She envisions a fun place where parents without a lot of disposable cash can bring their children.

In essence, Carson wants the library to be the “living room of the community.”

While the library offers numerous programs for people of all age groups, Carson explained, it has services available any-

BURNETT

Continued from page 1

houn.

Noting Burnett was known for having his shirt collar up, Calhoun said one of the kids once asked why he did that.

“You get the girls that way,” Robbie answered the young golfer.

Burnett loved his Montreal Canadiens. So much so, he suited up with the Habs Oldtimers team when Les Habitants came to Woodstock.

Calhoun thinks back to that night.

“One of his prized possessions was a picture of he and Guy Lafleur,” he said. “Robbie was wearing his Canadiens sweater with Burnett on the back.”

Burnett also played for the Karnes Loafers Oldtimers team in Woodstock and was a fixture as a goal judge at home games of the Woodstock Slammers

time it’s open. While there are still quiet areas in the library, such as the Dalton Camp Centre, Carson said, the children’s area is full of toys.

L.P. Fisher Library’s vast catalogue of programs is not limited to inside the historic building.

Recently, Carson happily announced, the library successfully won a $5,000 grant to buy snowshoes.

“We’re partnering with the Meduxnekeag Association,” she said. “People are going to be able to check out the snowshoes here with their library cards and use them on the trails.”

Physical literacy remains a focal point for the Woodstock library manager.

Whether working at libraries or as an intervention worker in schools, Carson witnessed the positive results of physical literacy with children, especially those on the autism spectrum or with behavioural issues.

Some programs require participants to sit still, explained Carson.

“Those kids that struggled with that really took to yoga,” she said.

The Woodstock librar-

ian’s energetic efforts aren’t limited to the library.

She has also involved herself in several community projects, including using her skills in the martial art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

She offers self-defence training for women and girls at the library and throughout the community.

Thanks to library staff, who bought into the expansion of services and programs, and strong support from the library board, Woodstock is enjoying what the L.P. Fisher Library now offers, said Carson.

“Everything is well attended,” she said. “We’ve had wonderful support from our patrons. People are just raving about all of our programs.”

“The positive impact just encourages me more, sorry to say for my staff,” she added with a laugh.

Carson said the library board underwent significant change in recent years and is more diversified, representing a wider cross-section of the community, with a member from Woodstock First Nation and some younger members.

Plus, she said, the board still has veteran

members who bring needed experience to the table.

While supportive, Carson said, the board does not rubber-stamp all her proposed innovations.

“I have a strong personality and need someone to push back,” she said.

The library board controls one of the three budgets that finance the library’s operation.

It is responsible for fundraising, which Carson said, thankfully gets a lot of support from the community.

Municipal funding covers the cost of infrastructure, janitorial services and some programs, while the province covers the cost of staffing and books.

One group, Carson would like to see better represented in library programs is the LGBTQ. She urges anyone who wants to start a community GayStraight Alliance or another program to contact her.

Meanwhile, Carson plans to remain active in the library and community. She is the process of writing another book, this one examining the community connection and responsibilities of a library.

every Friday night.

Tragedy struck Robbie and his then-wife Cathy (Dickinson) Burnett when their daughter Kelti died in March 2009.

Kelti was a nationally ranked equestrian rider and died as a result of an accident with a horse.

“The tragedy weighed heavily on Burnett,” said Calhoun.

“He was so proud of Kelti and her accomplishments,” he said. “He really sunk himself into work 24/7.

From early morning to doors closing he was here. Anything to do with an event, with golf or curling he was involved.”

Calhoun said Burnett enjoyed taking centre stage at major club events.

“He loved having a microphone in his hand.

He never cut anything short,” he said. “There was no Readers Digest

condensed version when Robbie was speaking.

He lived for Ladies’ and Men’s nights, the Corey Fall Classic, Wednesday morning junior golf lessons, trivia night and Chase the Ace nights.”

Calhoun said his friend, who was a huge Tiger Woods fan, was a skilled golfer himself.

“Robbie was the best putter I’ve ever seen,” he said.

After taking on the curling club responsibilities, Burnett became so adept at ice-making he became part of the crew responsible for making ice at the Ford World Men’s Curling Championships played in Moncton in 2009.

Calhoun said Burnett wasn’t exactly a morning person until he had a couple of coffee and had done his crossword puzzle.

He explained the history behind the crossword

puzzle, noting the late Ed Stairs would bring his paper from home each morning to the club to do his crossword puzzle.

Burnett had his own paper and did his own puzzle, making up words to get Stairs’ attention.

“Ed would correct Robbie’s puzzle and always comment, ‘what kind of a word is this?’”

Calhoun said Burnett continued his crossword tradition after Stairs’ death.

Clowes said the club is “regrouping” in the wake of Burnett’s sudden death.

“We met as a board to be sure we had a handle on paying staff and continuing with business as best we could,” he said.

“We delegated responsibilities from the ice making to managing events at the club.”

Clowes said the directors will meet again in the near future to put a long-

The River Valley Sun is a free, editorially independent monthly newspaper serving the Upper St. John River Valley of New Brunswick. “Our mission is to share feature stories, a variety of viewpoints, and information about local community events, minor sports, and municipal news that isn’t always covered by mainstream media. We believe a community is stronger when people know and understand their neighbours.”

Editorial Policy: The River Valley Sun welcomes letters on subjects of interest to our readers and prints columns on a variety of topics. Use of any material is at the discretion of the editors, and we reserve the right to omit or edit letters to meet space requirements, for clarity, or to avoid libel or invasion of privacy. Letters and columns published do not necessarily reflect the editorial policies or beliefs of the newspaper.

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The Woodstock Golf and Curling Club hosted a reception to honour Burnett, on Nov. 28, at which hundreds of attendees paid their respects.

“Robbie’s family was overwhelmed by the support. Just overwhelmed,” Calhoun stated.

Robbie Burnett was born in Montreal on October 14, 1955.

He was the son of the late James Kelvin Burnett (Kelly) and Helen Jes-

sie (Benison) Burnett.

He is survived by his step-mother, Janet Lee Burnett, sisters Janice Wright (Steven) Porters Lake NS, Laurie Burnett (Ken Martin) Bedford NS, and brother Ray Burnett (Robyn O’Hara) Halifax, NS, nieces Beckie Wright (David Guay) and Jillian Wright (Mike Newcombe), Porters Lake, NS. He was predeceased by his most precious and beloved daughter, Kelti Marie Burnett.

River Valley Sun Box 1000, Woodstock, NB, E7M 0E9 (506) 325-2552 MANAGING EDITOR: Jim Dumville (506) 325-8523 jim@rivervalleysun.ca PUBLISHER/DESIGN: Theresa Blackburn (506) 324-5700 theresa@rivervalleysun.ca PUBLISHER/DISTRIBUTION: Stephen Chisholm (506) 324-5711 www.rivervalleysun.ca ISSN # 2562-3893 Canada Post Mail Agreement # 43021515 The River Valley Sun follows Canadian Press Style guidelines. *Unauthorized bulk removal of the River Valley Sun from any public location, or any other tempering with our distribution, including unauthorized inserts, is prohibited.

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Beer festival proceeds flow into Greater Nackawic

3

Big Axe Brewery initiative helps start regional United Way Fund

By Jim Dumville

T

he success of the Big Axe Craft Beer Festival is paying dividends for Nackawic and its surrounding communities.

Proceeds from the annual sold-out event, which this year was $15,000, is donated to Nackawic Area United Way Community Fund, which sponsors various projects throughout the Nackawic High School catchment area.

“The festival triggered a wonderful domino effect,” said Roxanna Anderson of United Way Central New Brunswick.

“It was a catalyst to creating the United Way Nackawic & Area Community Fund- where generous businesses and individuals can donate directly to their local community.

Anderson said a com-

mittee consisting of local residents decides where the funds will have most impact.

“We love everything about this model and will look to replicate it in other smaller communities in Central NB,” she said.

Big Axe Brewery coowners Peter Cole and Tatiana Vasilyeva said the festival, which continually sells out, has been everything expected and more.

Cole said it was created to highlight craft alcohol producers, local food vendors, local talent and the beautiful community of Nackawic.

“Why do we do it?

Simply to give back to the community,” he said. “All proceeds go to the local United Way Charity Fund.”

Vasilyeva said organizing the festival has been a

rewarding experience.

“I am proud that the festival has been growing consistently for the past three years,” she said.

The Big Axe co-owners thanked the Nackawic town council and volunteers for helping make the festival such a success.

They reminded everyone the date of the 2020 Big Axe Craft Beer Festival will be July 18.

Atkinson said anyone wanting to support the United Way Nackawic and Area Community Fund can visit www.unitedwaycentral.com/nackawic-area-community-fund.

To date, the fund, with the help of employee payroll contributions from AV Nackawic mill workers, has reached $48,000, with all monies staying in the community.

Sponsors of the Big Axe Craft Beer Festival allow Big Axe brewery to contribute festival proceeds to United Way Nackawic and Area Community Fund. From left, Ron Blaney (Riverbend Log Homes), Randy Wilson (Town of Nackawic), Paul Wentzell (Stingray Broadcasting), Jeff Saunders (Teed Saunders Doyle), Stephen Hill (Elliott McCrea Hill), Peter Cole (Co-owner Big Axe Brewery), Tatiana Vasilyeva (Co-owner Big Axe Brewery) Roxana Atkinson (United Way Central New Brunswick), Gail Farnsworth (Local United Way), Tanya Perry (Local United Way), and Robert Kitchen (Chair Local United Way/ Operation Marketing Big Axe Brewery). (Photo submitted)

Tobique-Mactaquac MP officially sworn in

Richard Bragdon takes oath of office, starts work in 43rd parliament

By Jim Dumville

W

ith his family on hand, newly elected Tobique-Mactaquac MP Richard Bragdon took the oath of office during swearing-in ceremonies in Ottawa on Nov. 29.

Bragdon’s wife Crystal, children Vada, Walker and Mariah, as well as his parents, Gary and Debbie, joined him in the West Block of the House of Commons for the ceremony conducted by Clerk Charles Robert.

Bragdon took his seat along with fellow Conser-

vative MPs on the opposition benches on Dec. 5 as Parliament opened under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.

“It is with a grateful heart that I take a seat in the House of Commons this morning on this the first day of the 43rd Parliament,” Bragdon wrote in a Dec. 5 Facebook post.

Bragdon said he walked to Parliament Hill with fellow New Brunswick MP Rob Moore, who represents the riding of Fundy Royal.

MP Richard Bragdon and family during his swearing-in ceremony. From left are children Vada, Walker, and Mariah; wife Crystal, and parents Debbie and Gary. (Photo submitted)

Police investigating Somerville shooting

RCMP asking local residents to check video surveillance or trail cameras

By Jim Dumville

T

he Woodstock RCMP is seeking information from the public as the force investigates a recent incident where several shots were fired towards a residence in Somerville, near Hartland.

In a press release issued Dec. 9, the RCMP

said the incident occurred at approximately 7 p.m. on Dec. 3.

Police said a vehicle pulled up in front of a home on Route 103 and someone, from inside the vehicle, fired a number of shots towards the home.

Although the home was

occupied at the time, the RCMP said, no one was injured. Police described the suspect vehicle as a small, dark-coloured pickup truck, which following the shooting was seen travelling south on Route 103. Police believe the truck turned left onto the

Hartland Hill Bridge Road and across the bridge into Hartland.

Police are asking anyone who lives along Route 103 between the Somerville Road and Route 130 who has video surveillance or trail cameras which include a view of the

roadway to review their recordings from the evening of Dec. 3.

“If you have any images of a vehicle that matches the above description, please contact the Woodstock RCMP at 506-3253000,” the RCMP said in its release.

Seasons Greetings from

As it continues to investigate the incident, police ask anyone with information to call the RCMP. Those who wish to remain anonymous can provide information through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-2228477, or online at www. crimenb.ca.

Guardian Financial Planning

4

New CAO feels at home in Woodstock

Ken and Regina Anthony settle in for the long term

By Jim Dumville

A

s 2019 draws to a close, it will be one Ken Anthony will remember well. In some ways, the year marked the start of the rest of his life.

On Sept 30, Anthony moved into his office at Woodstock town hall to take over as the town’s chief administrative officer.

As Woodstock’s new top administrator, the Newfoundland and Labrador native took over the day-to-day operation of the municipality and several major projects currently on the drawing board.

For Anthony and his wife, Regina, the move to Woodstock was more than a job opportunity. They were moving to the community they plan to make their home.

Having two sisters married and living in Hartland, the Anthonys were familiar with the wider community and knew it was a place they wanted to live.

With a solid background in municipal government and public service on his resume, landing the Woodstock CAO position proved a perfect fit for

both his professional and personal life.

“We’re going to retire here,” said Anthony.

Anthony said he and Regina arrived in Woodstock in September already with positive feelings about the community, adding it didn’t take long to realize those positive vibes were warranted.

“It’s a great town and a great area,” he said. “It’s the people that make it special.”

Anthony said he was immediately struck by the quality of infrastructure and level of services offered by a small town. He described the AYR Motor Centre and L.P. Fisher Library/Thompson Centre as “fabulous facilities.”

Once he spoke to staff at these facilities and throughout the town administration, Anthony said, he recognized why Woodstock was on such a positive trajectory. He noted the number of activities for all age groups offered by the town’s recreation staff.

Anthony said this is the first time he’s worked directly with the community’s own police force.

He said both the town’s police force and fire department are “well trained.”

Anthony said Woodstock’s long-range potential is noticeable to anyone visiting the town.

“It has the obvious attraction of the two rivers meeting which is something to build on right off the bat,” he said.

Building upon those attributes will be the focus of several town projects in 2020 and beyond. He said downtown revitalization will be a key.

“We want people to stay downtown,” he said.

The future of the downtown and the entire community will be the focus of the 10-year plan set to be unveiled in May of 2020.

With the guidance of Dillon Consulting, Anthony said, the town is hosting sessions with developers, realtors, the business community and residents to lay out a framework for development, infrastructure and services over the next decade.

Another major project in 2020, Anthony said, is the long-awaited second water source for the town.

Woodstock chief administrative officer Ken Anthony (Jim Dumville photo)

The project, which has been in the works since major flooding in 2014 almost cut off access to the town’s only water source, is scheduled to finally go online in the coming year.

Whether dealing with major infrastructure projects or the day-to-day operation of the town, Anthony said, Woodstock benefits from a quality workforce.

“We have a great team here,” he said.

Anthony said that teamwork is vital, especially as the town works on its budget for 2020. He said department heads understand the difference

between wants and needs and the fiscal limitations all municipalities face.

“Money is tough to get,” he said.

Anthony said he believes in working as a team and keeping an open line of communication.

“I’m not interested in taps on the back,” he said.

“I’m interested in getting things done.”

Anthony said he and the entire staff have a good relationship with mayor and council, but understands requests and ideas must be fully explained when asking for their support.

“When we bring something to council there has to be a business case,” he said.

Anthony said his philosophy is to be open and available to staff, members of council or the public.

“My door is always open,” he said. “That is in all sincerity.”

While a lot of challenges await the town in 2020, Anthony said, so do a lot of opportunities. The new Woodstock CAO is ready to take on both.

“The first time I walked in here (town hall), I could feel the privilege of working here.”

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HCS principal sacrifices ‘stache’ for cancer support group School, community raise $5,600

By Jim Dumville

“S

have the stache!

Shave the stache!”

The enthusiastic chants reverberated off the walls of Hartland Community School’s large gymnasium as kindergarten to Grade 12 students waited anxiously for school principal Andy Clark to get a clean shave.

At stake was the moustache which adorned Clark’s upper lip for the past 28 years.

The HSC principal agreed to sacrifice the familiar “stache” if the school’s Movember fundraising campaign raised at least $3,000 in the ongoing battle against cancer.

The campaign, which began during a brainstorming session by HCS staff’s Core Leadership Team in search of ideas to build school spirit, ex-

ceeded expectations. In front of the excited student body on Wednesday, Dec. 4, Clark presented a cheque of $5,600 to three appreciative representatives of the River Valley Cancer Support Group.

Clark then sat on a chair in the middle of the gymnasium floor while local barber Jon Stephenson of Courtyard Clippers, with the help of student Carson Nicholson and Clark’s daughter Taylor, shaved the “stache.”

Taylor, a 2019 HCS graduate who is now attending St. Thomas University, happily returned to her school to participate in the event.

She said she never saw her father without the moustache. In fact, the “stache” is actually older than four members of the HCS staff.

Stephenson gave Taylor the honour of being the first to take the clippers to

her father’s upper lip.

Staff member Jamie Allison, who sits on the school’s Core Leadership Team, served as MC for the Dec. 4 student assembly.

It was Allison, during the team’s brainstorming session, who suggested male staff members participate in Movember, the worldwide program geared to raising money and awareness for the ongoing battle against cancer.

The team decided to make it a fundraising challenge and approached Clark to gauge his willingness to sacrifice his beloved moustache if the campaign raised at least $2,500. Clark agreed but set the price tag at $3,000.

Allison said the campaign started slowly, but as other committees, students and entire community bought in, the dollars

started to roll in quickly.

After the first two weeks of the challenge, said HCS vice-principal Lesley Bustard, Clark’s moustache looked safe.

The campaign, to that point, only collected $150 online and $250 in jars set up at the school.

At that point, Bustard said, several school committees, including the Positive Behavior Intervention & Support Team (PBIS), Technology Committee, and Mr. Everett’s Essential Skills class, began developing events to enhance the fundraising drive.

She listed some of the many fun-filled activities which caught the interest of students, staff and the entire community, including muffin sales, sock hops where students donned mustaches, 50/50 draws, candy cane sales, HCS Christmas ornament sales, car clean-

ing, Fan’stache’tic basket ticket sales and a ‘tache of Italy meal auction.

As the campaign gained traction on the school website and social media, Bustard said, donations began to pour in from local businesses, family, friends, colleagues, and neighbouring schools.

At the beginning of the campaign, Bustard explained, two jars were put out and labelled “Shave the Stache” and “Save the Stache.” She said the “Shave” jar filled much quicker than the “Save” jar, especially when prominent members of the community arrived at the school with a donation and a challenge to another member of the community to match their donation.

The end result was the loss of a moustache for Principal Clark, but a big win for the River Valley

Cancer Support Group and for Hartland Huskies school spirit.

The support group offers funding and emotional assistance to Upper St. John River Valley residents who are battling cancer. Representatives Gayle Barrett, Vera Girvan and Marilyn Rose attended the Dec. 4 school assembly to accept the $5,600 donation and express their appreciation to the students, staff and entire Hartland-area community.

The memory of Clark’s moustache sacrifice will be forever memorialized in a poem educational assistant Robyn Oakes wrote and recited at the Dec. 4 school assembly, titled “Ode to a 28-yearold Stache.”

Clark, who was last clean-shaven in 1991, said it was great to see the moustache being used for a great cause.

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616 MAIN STREET, WOODSTOCK, NB HCS principal Andy Clark’s daughter Taylor gets first shot at shaving the moustache which her father has had since before she was born. (Jim Dumville photo)

Miss New Brunswick and HCS student Kristen Culberson, along with Rusky the Husky don moustaches at one of the many fundraising events. (Photo submitted)

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Angels Among Us: Mike Dymond

Chicken Soup for the Soul book recounts kindness of late Carleton County man

By Jim Dumville

L

ike millions worldwide, Lisa MacDougall was familiar with the Chicken Soup for the Soul books.

The books, sharing stories of happiness, inspiration, encouragement and hope, are sold around the globe, with more than 100 million copies, under 250 different titles, sold in Canada and the United States alone.

When “Chicken Soup: It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas” hit the store shelves, including Walmart in Woodstock, this November, it included MacDougall’s own story “Angels Among Us.” about the kindness of a Carleton County man, the late Mike Dymond.

While Dymond is not named in “Angels Among Us.” the Carleton County mother wanted

to share the story of how he stepped up to help her during a particularly bleak moment as a single mother.

While browsing the internet one day, MacDougall said she stumbled across a call out for submissions and decided it was an ideal venue to share her story of kindness in Carleton County.

“Months passed and I hadn’t given it much thought when I got an email from them,” she said.

“It said, ‘your story Angels Among Us has made it to the first phase of our selection round for Chicken Soup for the Soul: It’s Beginning to Look a lot Like Christmas. Only a small percent of the submitted stories have made it this far.’”

MacDougall said she was both surprised and

proud when she shared the news with her family.

She said a couple of months later, she was notified her story made it to the final selection round for the book.

MacDougall said the email included a final version of her story, for her approval, telling her to review it for truth, accuracy and grammar.

“I was pretty proud of the fact that when I proofed the final version, I found that they had not changed a word,” she said.

“Angels Among Us” recounts a tough Christmas for MacDougall and her “beautiful eight-yearold daughter,” as she struggled to make ends meet on a single income.

As Christmas approached that year, MacDougall faced a series of unexpected challenges.

MacDougall’s story outlines how a community “angel” stepped forward to not only personally help but encourage support from the wider community. As an end result, what had been destined to be a terrible Christmas for the mother and daughter became one of the most wonderful in their memories.

MacDougall said it is important for her to share the story of Mike Dymond, “the kind man who made our Christmas so special that year.”

“He has since passed away, but his kindness is his enduring legacy,” she said.

MacDougall encourages everyone to buy a copy of “Chicken Soup: It’s Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas” to read her full story, plus its many other inspirational tales.

A story in the latest installment of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series is about the late Mike Dymond of Woodstock, N.B. (Photo submitted)

Festival of Trees enjoys another successful year Big Brothers, Big Sisters host event

By Jim Dumville

T

he Festival of Trees organizers, volunteers and supporters are now basking the glory of another successful event held Nov 22 and 23 at the Best Western Plus in Woodstock.

“The commitment to Big Brothers Big Sisters is still strong,” said executive director Mary Beth Rideout.

Not only was the festival once again well attended, she said, but the support of organizations, groups and the business community remains high.

As a result, Rideout said, they had no trouble finding sponsors and decorators for the 20 trees on display in the Best Western conference room on Friday and Saturday.

Plus, she said, local businesses and residents were kind with a wide variety of items provided for the accompanying silent auction.

Rideout said the Festival of Trees is the second of Big Brothers and Big Sisters of Carleton York’s two major events

in the year. The other is the spring’s annual Bowl for Kid’s Sake.

The long-time executive director expressed her appreciation for the ongoing support.

“The need is always there,” she said.

The Festival of Trees sees sponsors and decorators provide 20 uniquely decorated trees, which earn ribbons in a variety of categories. Plus, those attending can place bids for the purchase of their favourite trees.

Those in attendance also had a chance to place bids on dozens of donated silent auction items.

Throughout the twoday event, local performers of all ages were on hand to entertain visitors.

Woodstock Mayor Art Slipp, who took in the event Saturday afternoon with his wife Lynn, said the Festival of Trees continues to be one of the many great Christmas traditions in the community.

He said it’s great to see community support remains strong for the longrunning event.

RETR SPECT

will return to the River Valley Sun in January

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Carleton York executive director Mary Beth Rideout poses with Cali Phillips and Harper Findlater in front of one of the most uniquely decorated trees. (Jim Dumville photo)

Surrounded by Christmas colour, Ronnie Michaud performs. (Jim Dumville photo)

Seasons Greetings from the Hyundai SUV Family

and all of us here at Woodstock, NB (506) 328-0096 www.coreyhyundai.ca

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA

7

A season for family and friends

My Thoughts Exactly

By Jim Dumville

I

f all goes according to plan, as you read this I’m relaxing with friends and family next to a wood fire, in front of the Christmas tree in the living room of my niece Darlene’s cozy farmhouse in Fleurant Point, Quebec.

Or, I may be sharing laughs with special people in nearby Maguasha at the home of one of my sisters. Then again, I could be enjoying food, beverage and conversation at some friend’s house in Fleurant or Maguasha. Maybe I’ll be visiting my oldest sister Jean and her husband Walter about 40 minutes away in Blackland, New Brunswick.

On the other hand, I could be taking a walk in the snow with any or all of the above. The point is… that’s what Christmas is all about, spending special time with friends and family.

Last year, for the first time in more than 40 years, I spent Christmas in my childhood home in Quebec. With the house on the old Dumville farm now gone, I divided my time between Dar-

lene’s home and my sisters Betty and Mary.

During the 40-odd years between Christmases in Fleurant Point, I spent my Yuletide seasons in Moncton ... the first half of which was at my own home in Moncton and the last 24 as a visitor from Woodstock. Like in Quebec, the highlight of my Christmas in the Hub City surrounded family. Tradition meant Christmas Eve supper with my brother Colin, his wife Wanda and their family. Christmas dinner was with my sister Elaine, her husband Bob and their family. Before, after and in between, I’d visit the homes of nieces and nephews.

The advantage of coming from a family of six, who remained close as we made the long journey from childhood to old age, is probably most noticeable at Christmas. We stay in touch all year, but Holiday greetings are more than just a tradition. It is a natural extension of our love.

At the heart of my decision to spend last Christmas with Darlene in Fleurant was the sudden death of her partner, and my close friend, Dale just after Thanksgiving. I hoped it could somehow ease the pain as she and their two sons faced their first Christmas without him. It also helped that last Christmas was the first time in 24 years I had unlimited time over the Holiday season. I had no demanding editor’s job restricting time off to Christmas Day, Boxing Day or less.

With the ability to wait out winter storms or travel early based on longrange forecasts, the opportunity to spend Christmas in Fleurant finally became an option. It was one I’m glad I took. I will be returning again this Christmas, plus, hopefully, add a visit to Moncton sometime over the break.

As the years go by, the uplifting spirit

My niece Darlene Hayes, left, and her cousin Koreen Hayes enjoy a glass of wine while sitting between the Christmas tree and the woodstove, where I plan to spend much of this Christmas season sharing holiday joy with family and friends. (Stacey Hayes photo)

of Christmas remains constant, but the focus and priorities have changed. My childhood anticipation of the big day and excitement upon its arrival has long been replaced by the joy I find in the smiles and laughter of children I encountered over the years.

While Christmas is a busy season for a community newspaper reporter, I’ve always enjoyed the sense of compassion, caring and kindness so prevalent at tree-lighting ceremonies, Santa Claus parades, concerts and other Christmas events.

In some ways, Christmas has gone full circle for me. That childhood simplicity and excitement was replaced by the hustle and bustle of adulthood, with shopping, planning and extra work taking a bit of the lustre of the shining Christmas star. Returning to Fleurant for Christmas took me back to a simpler time. I decided to forget the pressure

and go all-in on family, friendship and the joy of spending time together.

This year, Darlene, I and other family members have decided to forego the gift exchanges. Instead, we’ll focus our money and efforts on spending time with friends and family. After all, that’s what Christmas is all about.

While my Christmas plans are full of family, friends and good tidings, I realize that won’t be the case for everyone. Too many will struggle through the season.

Living in a community like Woodstock, it always lifts my heart this time of year to see so many groups, organizations and individuals reaching out in support of others. To them, I say thank you.

To everyone, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Jim Dumville is a resident of Woodstock, a passionate journalist, and the managing editor of the River Valley Sun.

Adventures of a nine-year-old with a cassette recorder

The Ghosts of Christmas Past

By Paul J. Graham

I

t was 1984, I was nine years old, and my parents wanted to spend Christmas in Rhode Island with family. So we borrowed my grandfather’s cream coloured Chrysler Newport, loaded up the car at 3 a.m., along with a cooler of sandwiches and snacks, and of course, all our Christmas presents. We headed for the US border.

My family made trips like this before, sometimes up to three carloads speeding down the I-95, hitting all those bypasses and exits without a stitch of modern technology. No GPS, no maps, just working on memory, and only $90 US for the whole trip.

On this adventure, it was just me, my mother Judy, my father Charles, and my

Uncle John. Little did anyone know, however, that on this trip, we were carrying among our wrapped gifts one of the most disruptive pieces of technology known to humankind: the cassette recorder.

My mother Judy drove us safely to Rhode Island. In our family, the men drive cars in the backwoods, but the women navigate the highways. In Rhode Island lived our extended family members who had moved to the U.S. many decades earlier.

My Uncle Eddie and Aunt Jannette had a small home with a few animals in the back fields, just enough to consider it a farm. Their children, Todd, Sandy and Bernie, lived nearby. I always marvelled at their home because everything was flipped upside down. Everything you thought should be upstairs was downstairs. The kitchen and main living room were on the second floor. Bedrooms and a connected garage were on the first floor. They lived close to the sea, and would take us there at any time of the year to either swim, or walk, and feast on the local seafood. I cannot recommend enough deep-fried clam cakes.

On Christmas day I dug into my presents with the double excitement of the new surroundings and the joys of childlike expectation for Santa remembering I was in Rhode Island this year. I received a Tonka Truck, some clothes, but one gift stood out.

In a time well before iPhones, tablets and laptops, there was the cassette

player-recorder. This was how most of us listened to our favourite tunes, small cartridges of tape that would almost always at some time get jammed in the mechanism. Fun times.

This amazing device couldn’t download apps, stream TV, or locate nearby restaurants, but it could play your favourite music, both rewind and fast-forward.

And to the chagrin of all the adults present, it could also record any audio within earshot.

Once I learned this, I started recording everything. Like a journalist in the field, I held the device up to everyone’s face and asked for a quote. It didn’t matter what they said, I just wanted to listen to the recordings. Eventually, the patience of the adults started to wane, and I was given various warnings typical of my family. If I didn’t behave, there would be both noogies and wedgies aplenty in my near future. In other words… cool it with the recordings.

This, however, did not daunt my nine-year-old spirit of curiosity. Instead, I hatched a new plan. I would record everyone in secret.

During that trip to Rhode Island my Uncle John caught the eye of Pam, one of my cousin Todd’s friends. At the time, they were just friends getting to know one another over the Christmas holidays. A fragile meeting of souls, a budding friendship, and unknown to them, it would one day bring them together in marriage. It is still going strong today, despite my per-

sonal interventions.

While sitting on a sofa, alone to themselves, far behind the bustle of activity in the kitchen upstairs, certain declarations of affection, amorous feelings, were being communicated between Pam and John. This tender moment of love and affection, and let’s be honest, the sounds of smooching, were being recorded by me, behind the sofa. At that age, I had no idea what any of it meant, but it sounded really important, and something that should be shared with the whole family.

So, without delay, I snuck back upstairs, plopped the cassette recorder onto the kitchen table, and proudly let the truth be heard by the entire family. Stunned silence was soon followed by a high-speed chase to grab the recorder and me. I tried to escape with it but wasn’t fast enough.

Although my mother gave me a stern talking to, this was far from my Uncle Eddie’s reaction. He actually paid us to stay extra days, maybe he was hoping I’d find out more information, or maybe he enjoyed the free entertainment.

Either way, it stands as a great Christmas lesson for those bringing girlfriends or boyfriends home for Christmas. Don’t underestimate nine-year-olds. We are watching, we are listening, and we just might be recording. Merry Christmas!

Paul J. Graham lives in Woodstock. He is the University Librarian for Yorkville University and is recent graduate of Yorkville University’s Toronto Film School.

8

POTPOURRI

(... paying homage to late, local radio personalities Bruce Smith and Walter Tompkins)

A Roundup of Interesting Photos and Events

Parade Roundup!

Photos by Jim Dumville (Find stories about these events on our Facebook page!)

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS, WOODSTOCK: The Law Enforcement Torch Run and Special Olympians march along King Street to help open the annual Festival of Lights in Woodstock. (Jim Dumville photo)

NORTHERN CARLETON ANNUAL SANTA CLAUS PARADE, FLORENCEVILLE-BRISTOL: Mr. and Mrs. Claus smile and wave to onlookers along the parade route. (Jim Dumville photo)

SANTA CLAUS PARADE, WOODSTOCK: The Grant Thornton accounting firm had a large contingent on hand for the Woodstock parade. (Jim Dumville photo)

ANNUAL SANTA CLAUS PARADE, WOODSTOCK: Members of the Junior Miss Woodstock Royal Court bundle against the cool temperatures as they prepare to hit the parade route. (Jim Dumville photo)

AYR Motor Express CARES about our community, which is why we are proud to support the River Valley Sun and other community strengthening initiatives in our region. www.AYRMOTOR.com

The Best is the LEAST we can do!

Florenceville-Bristol shines at Christmas

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA

9

Tree-lighting ceremony draws large crowd

By Jim Dumville

R

esidents from Florenceville-Bristol and surrounding communities turned out in large numbers on Thursday, Nov. 21, to help the town kick off its Christmas season with a sense of holiday and community spirit.

Ideal weather, with temperatures hovering around the freezing mark, helped make the annual Florenceville-Bristol tree-lighting celebration at Riverside Park the place to be to celebrate the arrival of

the Yuletide.

Town tourism and business development manager Charles Walker served as master of ceremonies, while Mayor Karl Curtis offered greetings and, with the help of a young attendee, had the honour to light the tree to officially launch the Christmas season.

Walker urged those in attendance to support local businesses as they prepare for the Christmas season.

Kim Brown, who lives near Riverside Park, was on hand for the town’s tree-lighting with her grandchildren, from left, Adrienna, Scarlett, and Kyleigh Johnston. (Jim Dumville photo)

Local vendors, including Heidi Nissen of Heidi’s Chocolates from Plaster Rock, provided a little extra to the evening’s celebrations. While she has a booth regularly at the summer market in FlorencevilleBristol, Nissen said this marked the first time she participated in the Christmas tree-lighting event.

She described it as a great experience.

In addition to enjoying hot chocolate, cider, candy and playing with friends, lo-

cal children gathered around the special guest of honour, who arrived on the back of a fire truck. Santa greeted the children with his familiar “ho ho ho” laugh and handed out candy to the huge group of youngsters who gathered around him as he climbed down from his ride.

He even got a few hugs from little ones like Amelia Hovey, who waited patiently for her chance to spend a few special moments with the Jolly Ol’ Elf.

The Florenceville-Bristol community Christmas tree will shine through the Christmas season. (Jim Dumville photo)

10

’ TAKONUTOMAKONUWAL

(Maliseet word meaning ‘their stories’)

News and Features from Woodstock First Nation

Wolastokuk basket weaving workshop a success Ten WFN participants learn the tradition Photos by Gail Paul

T

A basket weaving workshop took place on Dec. 10 at the Woodstock First Nation Gym. Ten members took part, learning the tradition from master basket makers/instructors Sheldon Polchies, and Doreen Paul (above, top). Excited to share what they learned were workshop students Dawn Paul (top right) and WFN Councillor Peggy Wright (above).

Mother Tongue

By Anatasha Lyons

N

ovember 11th has been a statutory holiday to honour veterans since the end of the First World War in 1918. It is a time to pause and remember the sacrifices of hundreds of thousands of Canadian lives during war, conflict, or peace.

Woodstock has flown the banners of 61 veterans to honour each soldier sacri-

SPECIAL PRESENTATION

he WFN Child Development Centre hosts an annual Christmas Social and Wreath Decorating workshop. Children are invited to decorate a wreath with their parents for their homes, which also happens to be a fine motor skill activity. This is the first year that we had a special visitor! Santa stopped in to give out chocolates. Presenting a wreath to WFN Chief Tim Paul is Chloe MacKay. (Photo submitted)

Ktpeləməsoltiyəkw – Our Freedom

Words of the Month

fight for the freedom we now enjoy today.

And still, all of them did this without the same benefit that non-indigenous soldiers received upon returning home. According to a CTV news article written by Kelly Geraldine Malone, “after the Second World War, Indigenous veterans couldn’t get information from trained veterans affairs counsellors and had to go through their Indian agent. It was difficult for them to connect with non-Indigenous comrades because they weren’t allowed in legion halls. They were also unable to get a loan-grant combination that helped veterans set up careers and businesses.”

Eastern Canada saw the highest rate of enlistment amongst

Our Freedom

fice for ktpeləməsoltiyəkw (our freedom). This past November 9th, new banners were raised to honour some of our Wəlastəkwey Veterans from this community.

Banners printed with the faces of our heroes, our kinapiyik (brave ones), our mətapekowinowək (warriors).

Many people are not aware that Indigenous Soldiers across Canada were discouraged from enlisting in the war. Indigenous governments tried to protect their young men and women from conscription. They won that fight in 1918, making the recruitment null and void for Indigenous Peoples in Canada. Even still, many Indigenous people voluntarily enlisted in the Canadian Armed Forces to

the Wəlastəkwey and Mi’kmaq nations.

You might be asking yourself why our mətapekowinowək would have enlisted in the first place? There clearly was no benefit.

I had asked this very same question to an elder one day, and they summed it up for me. It was their understanding that our kinapiyik were fulfilling a treaty promise to come to Canada’s aid when they were in need.

A treaty promise that had been kept alive through oral tradition.

Anatasha Lyons is a wife, a mother, and Woodstock First Nation’s Language Coordinator. She is involved in language revitalization efforts in Wolastokuk.

Ktpeləməsoltiyəkw /Ktpelomosultiyoq Phonetically: KTBELL-muz-ZOLT-dee-YUGW

Brave Ones

Kinapiyik/Kinapiyik Phonetically: Gee-NAH-bee-YIG

Warriors/Soldiers

Mətapekowinowək /Motapekuwinuwok Phonetically: Mud-AH-beck-GOO-wee-NOO-wug Sources: www.aadnc-aandc.gc.ca ctvnews.ca/canada/only-equal-on-the-battlefield-effortsunderway-to-honour-indigenous-veterans-1.4168236 For pronunciaton help please visit https://pmportal.org and type in the english using the Newell-Hale alphabet (q used in example above)

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 11

WELLNESS

Your Guide to Healthy Living in the St. John River Valley

It’s the most stressful time of the year... sing it with me!

Mere Mortal

By Kathy Sherwood-Orser

A

s we enter the season of busyness, I wonder how one maintains a degree of calmness? I rush around to have the house decorated in a magazinelike fashion. I dream of gifts for everyone that will be the most special gift ever, and I want everyone in my world to have cookies, cakes, homemade bread, pie, a full turkey dinner and their special dessert, and since my world is rather large, this means lots of gifts, lots of treats, lots of everything. I am a perfectionist – there

Call: (506) 325-9297 Text: (403) 638-6308

I said it! I love control, and I must be organized, prepared and over the top.

Add to that the fact that we’re also surrounded by images of people who are happy, in love, and enjoying the time of their lives during the holidays. In reality, this time of year can be difficult. When our lives don’t match the images we see around us or live up to our idea of ‘family,’ it can be painful. And spreading all that good cheer, creating traditions and memories can be tiring and can exacerbate daily pressures and hassles. If you know me, you know I have been knocked down, often. I know I am not alone in that. I know almost all of us have been knocked down at some point in our lives. So, how can we survive this season? Here are a few tips: FIND MEANING Find or reconnect to a purpose. The meaning of the season is not personal

burn out; the meaning is togetherness, thankfulness, happiness, and the joy of being together. If you are a spiritual person, schedule opportunities for this and make it a priority.

PREPARE AND PLAN This includes anticipating obstacles to your sense of wellbeing.

Take a few minutes every day, and remind yourself of things that intensified your stress in past years.

Did you feel lonely? Did you overschedule yourself? Was a particular family gathering painful?

Plan how you will approach each situation and what strategies you can use to get through them.

ONE THING AT A TIME Doing just one thing can give you time to settle down during a frantic or chaotic day or week. Focus your entire attention on what you are doing now. Let go of the mental list-making, worrying, and party avoiding. Put your

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mind in the present and focus on physical sensations, such as walking, doing dishes, listening to music.

DO SOMETHING POSITIVE When your life isn’t perfect, and most are not try doing the opposite. Instead of sitting and crying, get up and go for a short walk. Listen to your most inspiring, exhilarating music or watch a crazy funny movie. And do just this – even if only for 10 minutes.

SELF SOOTH WITH TASTE If you’re out and tempted to eat fast food or junk food, we tend to do this with very little attention paid to the actual taste of what we’re eating. Choose one food and take the time to eat it, pausing between bites. Chew slowly and really taste it. Remember to pay attention to your alcohol intake as booze actually adds to your stress.

BREATHE DEEPLY Lie on your back, breathe evenly and gently.

(Ignore the dogs licking you or the cat trying to sit on your chest, or teenagers asking for food!) Focus your attention on your breathing; feel it coming in and out of your body. As you breathe in, allow your stomach to rise. Exhale fully, pushing all the air out of your lungs. Continue for 10 breaths.

CLEAN THE HOUSE The holidays often bring extra chores and cleaning.

My sister and I try to help each other get through the stress of the holiday season. (Photo submitted)

I am the best stress cleaner. Use cleaning and organizing as an opportunity to self-soothe, rather than add additional stress. Focus your attention on each cleaning task. Maintain awareness of your actions and your thoughts if they wander. Bring them back to full attention on the task at hand.

More than anything, remember this is a season

to enjoy. It lasts only a little while, and we make it so significant. This season I urge you to try and slow down! Take it one minute at a time and breathe.

Kathy Sherwood-Orser is the Western Valley Wellness Network Co-Chair and Wellness Champion who lives with her family in her childhood home in Hartland.

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Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays

from the Western Valley Regional Service Commission Waste Management Division Look for your 2020 Recycling Calendar in this issue of the River Valley Sun!

Western Valley Regional Service Commission 3143 Main Street Unit 2 Centreville, NB E7K 3E8 (506) 276-3610

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R I V E R

V A L L E Y

S U N

A D V E R T O R I A L

NEW BUSINESS WANTS TO CLOSE GAPS IN COMPUTER REPAIR SERVICES

- - - - - - - - -

TECHONOMICAL now offering computer repair and consulting services in Carleton County

River Valley Sun

A

fter years of working for other computer companies and call centres, Brian Billings decided it was time to branch out on his own.

Techonomical is a dream come true for Billings. He, his wife and business partner Holly Billings, opened Techonomical Computer Repair on Emerald Street (off Main Street) in downtown Woodstock, N.B., in November.

Offering economical help for those experiencing computer problems, the Billings’ believe their approach will be successful.

“We’re all about customer service,” said Brian.

“If you don’t need a part, I’m not going to sell you a part, and if I can fix something in five minutes, I’m not going to try and charge you for four hours,” he said.

“I think that’s the best way to grow your business. Be honest and gain people’s trust. That’s what will keep customers coming back,” Holly added.

Gaining his computer

Just look for the bright blue door on Emerald Street!

(506) 323-9216 brian.billings@bellaliant.net

Brian Billings is ready to serve your home and business computer repair needs at Techonomical on Emerald Street in downtown Woodstock. (Theresa Blackburn photo)

Brian’s wife, Holly, handles the administrative side of their new business, Techonomical. (Theresa Blackburn photo)

literacy first at NBCC St. Andrews, and most recently at NBCC Woodstock (taking IT/Desktop Support), Billings takes every opportunity to expand his knowledge.

“Every course, every work experience has taught me something,” he explained.

“Whether I was helping clients with technical issues when I worked for a call centre, or when I was doing business calls for a

in the community,” said Brian.

“I learned a lot from my previous employers. I know from experience in this industry that you succeed if you work hard to ensure customers are satisfied.”

Techonomical’s primary focus will be servicing Windows products, both laptop and desktop.

“I’ll also provide help with identifying computer vulnerabilities, I can pro-

vide custom ordering consultations, and can help those who might need some instruction on how to use new technology,” Brian added.

“We want to be a onestop-shop for technical repair, parts and computer purchasing, but also advice,” added Brian. “It’s important not just to fix something, but to explain to customers what went wrong and how to avoid problems in the future.”

-Cook a meal or bake sweets for a family/someone who is struggling or dealing with illness.

-Be nice to those around us.

-Remember those who are lonely, including neighbours, family members, nursing home residents, etc.

-Make time to call or visit them, go carolling and/ or send them Christmas cards -Surprise your neighbour or co-worker with some holiday sweets.

-Surprise someone in the parking lot by cleaning off their car on a snowy day.

-Remember that a simple smile and “Merry Christ-

mas” can make a difference in someone’s day.

-Being grateful.

-Think less about what we want for Christmas, and instead focus more on what we can do for others.

Remember to give thanks. Whether you pray to a deity above, or just offer it up randomly to the universe, this is the perfect time of year to take stock of the many gifts we already have in our lives, and offer our thanks.

Merry Christmas!

local computer repair firm, there is always something you can take away from that work.”

That breadth of knowledge is what Brian and Holly want to share with customers.

“We’ll do housecalls if that’s what people want, but we’ll also offer people the option to bring their machines in, which will save them money,” Brian explained.

The couple said their

partnership is working well.

Holly handles all the administrative aspects of the business, while Brian is the technical arm of the operation. In their first weeks in business, the couple has spent considerable time networking.

“We’ve gone to many businesses, introducing ourselves, and handing out flyers,” explained Holly.

“I started this because I wanted to fill what I see is a gap in computer services

A different Christmas to-do list

HOMEWORK

By Sandra Hanson

C

hristmas is upon us; indeed, it’s knocking at the door.

With the impending festivities being so close, I think it’s safe to say that our children are no longer focusing on their school or homework.

In fact, almost daily my children are trying to con-

vince me to start Christmas break early! Though, if I’m being perfectly honest, I’m not really as focused on my work, either.

The list of things I need and want to do for the holidays is getting longer in my head, and I find myself increasingly reminding myself that I must get through x,y,z, first.

Which I think really brings us to the crux of the issue with Christmas – the meaning of Christmas has the tendency to get lost in the excessive hustle and bustle of decorating, parties, baking and shopping.

It too often turns into a long to-do list filled with things that really have

nothing to do with the real meaning of Christmas.

I was reminded of this recently when teaching a Sunday School class, on the first Sunday of Advent.

Their worksheet for the week asked them to think of something they could do each week of Advent to prepare for Christmas.

Their answers reminded me yet again, that children are often far wiser than we adults.

Their answers didn’t include writing Santa, decorating or wrapping presents.

Instead, their ideas were: to pray more, to be more grateful, to help those in need, to be nice to

those around us, and my personal favourite – to not judge people just because they might look, talk or act differently than us.

I decided to expand a bit on some of their ideas, with some ways we can all put their ideas into action and hopefully keep our hearts focused on what really matters this holiday season: -Helping those in need.

-Fill Operation Christmas Child boxes.

-Send gifts through World Vision.

-Play Secret Santa for a local family in need.

-Donate food, toys, hats and/or mittens to Harvest House or the food bank

Sandra Hanson is a Centreville wife and mother who homeschools her two children.

coreyford.ca (506) 328-8828 336 Connell Street, Woodstock

Always Friendly Service Always a Fair Deal

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 13

SUNNY-SIDE UP RVS Crossword #11 Christmas Providing Readers with a Challenge, a Chuckle, and a Smile

RVS Crossword #11 Find the answer key to your LOCAL crossword at rivervalleysun.ca

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1

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December’s ‘Sunnyside Up’ was compiled by Rebecca Dykeman.

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How many deer would a reindeer reign if a reindeer could reign deer?

CARLETON COUNTY

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Colloquialisms

sled

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DOWN: 2. Season of preparation for Jesus’ arrival 3. Dr. Seuss Christmas character Down: 4. Synonym for a Christmas song 6. Snowman who camefor to Jesus' life 2.

Season of preparation arrival 7.

Decoration that mimics ice on trees 3.

Dr. Seuss Christmas character 9. Frothy Christmas beverage (two words)

Synonym for a Christmas song Snowman who came to life Tree decoration that mimics the effect of ice Frothy Christmas beverage

ACROSS: 1. This led wise men to Bethlehem 5. These people work at the North Pole 8.

Magical flying animals that pull a sleigh Across: 10. areled lit at church Night 1. These This the wise during men toSilent Bethlehem 11.

Jolly man who delivers presents 5.

These people work at the North Pole 12. Decorative plant with small red fruit 8.

10.

11.

12.



* The X in Xmas doesn’t take the “Christ out of Christmas.” In the Greek alphabet, X (chi) is the first letter in the Greek word for Christ. * The first artificial Christmas trees were made in 19th century Germany out of goose feathers that were dyed green. This was in response to major deforestation in Germany at the time. * In Poland, Ukraine, and Germany, it is seen as good luck to find a spider or spider’s web on your Christmas tree. * Santa Claus goes by many names around the world, including Papai Noel (Brazil), Mikulás (Hungary), and Nattal Sīya (Sri Lanka).

RVS TONGUE TWISTER

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4.

6.

7.

9.

Did you KNOW?

HOLIDAY FAVOURITES

By John Morris

\sled\ – noun

A snowmobile, also known as a Ski-Doo™ i.e., an open vehicle with a gasoline-powered internal combustion engine, designed for travel on snow, seating one or two persons, and featuring steerable skis on the front and an endless belt at the rear; “Bubba’s got a new sled, goes some fast.” See also: wheeler.

Magical flying animals that pull a sleigh Hear These are lit at church services during "Silent Night" Jolly man who delivers presents Christmas Eve Plant with small red fruits used as decoration

this word pronounced at www.dooryard.ca.

can help you find the perfect home

®

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Linda and her staff wish you and yours a wonderful holiday season and a healthy and prosperous New Year!

All Seasons Realty 655 Main Street, Woodstock (506) 325-2500 century21allseasonsrealty.ca

Meet Riverside’s ‘snowbirds’ – folks who come for a winter stay!

The feeling of home in an active retirement community.

That’s Riverside Court! We take care of everything!

Call Carolyn at (506) 325-7507 to arrange a tour today!

In the Christmas issue of agelessNB Magazine, find out why so many seniors are opting to spend their winters enjoying the comforts of Riverside Court.

14

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

Florenceville-Bristol

brary.

Holiday Public Skates The Northern Carleton Civic Centre will host holiday public skating on Dec. 23 from 1 to 2:30 p.m.; Dec. 27 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. and 6:45 to 7:45 p.m.; Dec. 29 from 2:45 to 3:45 p.m.; Dec. 30 from 1 to 2 p.m.; Jan. 2 from 3 to 4 p.m.; Jan. 3 from 1 to 2 p.m. and 6:45 to 7:45 p.m.; and Jan. 5 from 2:45 to 3:45 p.m.

Adult Pickleball Hartland Community School is hosting adult pickleball every Sunday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Check out and learn a new activity. See the Hartland Recreation page for any changes.

Tree Disposal

Drop off your Christmas trees behind the Northern Carleton Civic Centre any time before noon on Jan. 13 for disposal.

Adult Pickleball Adult Pickleball continues each Tuesday morning at True North Baptist Church from 9 to 11 a.m. No experience is required. All equipment will be provided.

Emergency Notification The Town of Florenceville-Bristol has a notification system that sends out notifications on a variety of topics. Sign up to ensure you’re in the know at www.florencevillebristol.ca/notification-system .

Hartland Welcome to Winter There will be a Welcome to Winter yoga party in the community room behind Hartland town hall on Sunday, Dec. 22 from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. The free event, held in partnership with the Town of Hartland and Hartland Valufoods, offers family fun for all ages, including a yoga dance, art activities and refreshments. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Registration is required. Contact Brigitte Rivers at creative.flow@ yahoo.ca or 506-3233120.

Story Time Pals Story Time Pals for children will take place every Friday from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. at the Hartland Li-

Celebrating 65 Years !!

Congratulations to Basil and Marie Lawrence of Lower Woodstock who are celebrating their 65th wedding anniversary.

The couple was married on November 27, 1954. Much love and best wishes are sent from their family and friends!

Woodstock Christmas in the Dooryard The third annual Christmas in the Dooryard concert takes place on Thursday, Dec. 19 from 7 to 9 p.m. at the McCain Community Theatre. Admission is by donation. All proceeds go to the Dooryard Arts Festival.

Christmas Carol Service The public is invited to attend a service of lessons and carols at Christ Church, 1973 Lower Woodstock on Dec. 22 from 7 to 8 p.m., with organist Sandra Culberson and St. Luke’s Choir. Silent Night will be sung by candlelight. Christ Church will be decorated with traditional greening. Come and relive memories of Christmases past and make new memories as the birth of Christ is celebrated.

Community Meal The Woodstock Harvest House will host a community Christmas meal at 123 Foundry St., behind Vail’s bottle exchange, on Dec. 23 at 5 p.m.

Glow Swim A glow swim will be held at the AYR Motor Centre on Saturday, Dec. 28 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Children 5 and under must have an adult (18+) in the water at arm’s length at all times. To ensure a safe, fun environment, the number of participants has been limited to 65 per swim. To avoid lines, advance tickets can be purchased at the AYR Motor Centre reception.

Cost is $6 per person.

Public Skate AYR Motor Centre will host a public skate from 3:30 to

(506) 392-6763

florencevillebristol.ca

5 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday. Children ages 5 and under get in free, while rates are $5 for youth and seniors, $6 for adults, and $12 for family. CSA approved helmets are mandatory for everyone. A limited number of helmets are available at reception and must be signed out.

New Year Family Event On Tuesday, Dec. 31 from 6 to 8 p.m. AYR Motor Centre will host a New Year’s Eve family celebration. Activities will include skating with a special appearance from the new Jr. C hockey mascot ‘Prowler’, swimming, inflatables and activities in the Field House, TLC face painting, Mr. Balloon, and munchies by 2nd Home Café & Grill.

There will be fireworks at 8:15 p.m. Admission is $5 for youth and seniors, $6 adults, and $12 for a family of four. Please note: All skaters must wear a CSA approved helmet. When Swimming, children 5 and under are required to have an adult (18+) in the water at arm’s length at all times.

New Year’s Eve Dance The Woodstock Legion will host a New Year’s Eve dance on Tuesday, Dec. 31 from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., with music from live band “Facedown.”

Debec Santa’s Visit On Sunday, Dec. 15 at 1 p.m., there will be a visit with Santa and treats at the Debec Fire Hall.

Warm apple cider will be

(506) 375-4357 town.hartland.nb.ca

served. For more information, please contact Cindy Moser at 425-0461, Donna Carson at 277-6717, or debecrec@gmail.com.

Centreville Christmas Concert Never Too Late will be hosting a concert at the Centreville Baptist Church on Sunday, Dec. 15 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. This will be their last Christmas concert of the year. Go out and enjoy some good tunes!

Waterville Christmas Eve Service Waterville United Baptist Church is holding their Christmas Eve service on Dec. 24 at 6:30 p.m. All are welcome.

ANIMAL CRUELTY

The Woodstock RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in relation to an animal cruelty case.

In November of 2013, a hunter in the Cloverdale area located the remains of a dog carcass that had been chained to a tree and left to die.

Local RCMP is continuing their investigation, and are asking the public for any information that will assit them in solving this case of animal cruelty.

If you have any information on this criminal act, contact Crime Stoppers. Your information may be the missing piece of the puzzle law enforcement requires to solve this crime.

What happens when you contact Crime Stoppers?

Do you have information on a criminal activity that has occurred or about to happen? Are you concerned about retaliation, recognition by others or the possibility of having your name associated with a crime? If you wish to remain completely anonymous and not worry about testifying in court or making a statement to law enforcement, contact Crime Stoppers with your information.

Crime Stoppers does not have phone display nor any method to identify the caller. When you contact Crime Stoppers you will be immediately provided a tipster number which is your only identification. The information you provide will be forwarded to a law enforcement agency for investigation who report back to the Crime Stopper tip-line operator if your information was useful.

Never share your tipster number. The information you provide could result in you receiving a cash award.

Check out the weekly Crime of the Week on Facebook: Western NB Crime Stoppers

Let the Music Move You! MONDAY County Connections at the Woodstock ‘Y’ @ 7 p.m.

TUESDAY Carleton County Fiddlers at the AYR Motor Centre @ 6:45 p.m.

Music at the Oakfield (Oakfield, ME) Community Center @ 7 p.m. Atlantic WEDNESDAY Music at the Millville Legion @ 7 p.m.

Evening Fiddlers at St. James United, Andover @ 7 p.m.

Music at the Littleton Snowmobile Club (Littleton, ME) @ 7 p.m. Atlantic THURSDAY Music on the Monquart at the Bath Knights of Columbus Hall @ 7 p.m.

SATURDAY Music at Triple ‘C’ Centre on Rockland Road @ 7 p.m. every other week Music at the Argyle Hall @ 7 p.m. the first Saturday of each month Nackawic Lions Club Dance at 7 p.m. the last Saturday of each month If you have music events to share, please email theresa@rivervalleysun.ca

(506) 575-2241 www.nackawic.com

(506) 325-4600

www.town.woodstock.nb.ca

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 15

“The best for the best”

IN A ‘MANOR’ OF SPEAKING

By Stephanie Smith

D

oris Burtt has lived at Carleton Manor for more than seven years.

She’s kind of known around our home to “tell it like it is,” and I’ve never met anyone yet, neighbour or staff, who is quite like Doris. She rolls through our halls in the mornings to say “hello” and after activities to check in on us. You can always hear her coming, always with something to say.

To Doris, there is no place like this one. She tells us that we provide ‘the best for the best’ – the best being her, of course.

I happen to agree.

That’s why Carleton Manor is certified as Planetree Gold, because Doris and others like her deserve the very best that we can provide. Our 110 neighbours are part of our family, and we are part of theirs.

This October, in Orlando, Florida, the International Planetree Conference on person-centred care was held. Our leadership team received an Innovation Award for the implementation of a

new collaborative and engaging “neighbourhood leadership model” that empowers our team members to brainstorm solutions to common questions and concerns to serve our seniors better.

In some long-term care facilities, you will hear the words unit or wing, but at Carleton Manor, we use the word neighbourhood.

Other long-term care facilities will call the people who live with them residents or patients, but here in our home, we call them neighbours, friends and family.

Positive verbiage is the first and hardest part of converting a long-term care facility into a home.

One of our team members, Michelle Thornton, who works as part of the Everwood team, was recognized for her outstanding work with our neighbours. She won the Planetree Scholar Award for going above and beyond with the personcentred care that she provides daily. It’s not uncommon to overhear Michelle speaking with a neighbour and for them to exchange “I love you” because she wears her heart on her sleeve and would do anything for them.

It is impossible to perpetuate the Planetree philosophy throughout our home without team members like Michelle and our amazing volun-

teers. We currently have 100 active volunteers who give their time to enhance the quality of life of our neighbours through social inclusion. In fact, our regular pet therapy visitors, Reilly, and her human, Janice Wilson, continue to create joy around our home with their Wednesday morning visits. Reilly has been through rigorous training and is certified as a therapy pet with Saint John Ambulance.

When Reilly comes in for her visits, the neighbours absolutely light up. I have seen the difference that therapy pets can make, especially for our non-verbal neighbours; they have their own private conversations with Reilly. Reilly and Janice were nominated this year for the Planetree Pet Therapy Award.

Thank you for all that you do, you two!

I was happy to be invited to work at the Planetree Conference with one of our training partners, Barb Fletcher.

I helped her to promote her HeartMath business and make new connections. Although that was my first priority, I did have an opportunity to attend some of the information sessions. I heard stories and testimonials of other health care professionals about what Planetree means to them. I miss the Florida heat right now, but I’m happy to be back at Carleton Manor, working with the neighbours

Stephanie Smith and Doris Burtt pose for a selfie. (Photo submitted)

Accepting the Innovation Award: From left, Karrie Bedford, Raquel Manganti, Michelle Thornton, Sara Ghanem, Cheyanne Wyers-Culbert, Angela Acott-Smith from Carleton Manor, and Susan Frampton from Planetree. (Photo submitted)

again, especially Doris.

Next year, the Planetree International Conference will be held in New Orleans, and another team from our home will travel to take part. In 2020, Carleton Manor is up for re-certification, and we are going for Gold

again. Doris isn’t worried, she says we have it in the bag. Wish us luck!

Stay connected to us by following our Facebook Page @carletonmanornursinghome for more fun stories from our neighbours. If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer,

don’t hesitate to reach out by email at pr@carletonmanor.ca or call 506-3254554- we can’t wait to hear from you!

Stephanie Smith is the Community Engagement Coordinator at Carleton Manor.

Having fun in ‘the house’ no matter the season!

RIVERSIDE RAMBLINGS

By Carolyn Brown

A

s we experienced the first taste of a New Brunswick winter and left the beautiful fall behind us, it certainly did not seem to limit the enthusiasm of our residents and their families here! Activity Director, Amber McHatten, continued to provide a vibrant calendar of events.

It’s always exciting to see the wider community come through our doors, as well. It’s an important part of life here - engaging the community. We strive to be a welcoming home!

Needless to say, the flu

clinic was a necessary evil, so to speak, but provided an opportunity to laugh and chat with each other as we waited. The clinic also offered a chance to visit with Newnham and Slipp Pharmacy staff who serve us so well. We appreciate them!

We are grateful for so many who took advantage of this preventative measure.

And what could be better than a Mary Kay shopping party right here at home? We love having parties come to us! Thank you, Marlene Forrest.

November 5th saw us welcome our Legion members and Anavets for our yearly Remembrance Day Service. The formal service encompasses all the parts reflective of this memorable tribute to our servicemen and women. What a gift to have our very own veteran, Woodrow Brogan, at 98 years of age read, with a clear and strong voice, “In

Flanders Fields.” He said this honour would remain a high point for him.

We have our regular activities, which include trips throughout the community to do some shopping, walking, or visiting the Woodstock Farm Market. Sometimes we just enjoy taking a nice drive.

In our house, we have regular church services, hymn sings, manicures, quilting, card games, chats over coffee, knitting club, yoga, exercises, bingo, movies, colouring, and so much more. We are always excited to have our school children in for visits, and it warms your heart to see these young people engage with our residents. Intergenerational activities today are proving to be a huge benefit to seniors and youth alike, and we will be richly blessed as we continue to be involved in these opportunities with our youth.

Staff members Tammy McAskill and Chelsey Graham join Activity Director Amber McHatten in some Halloween fun. (Carolyn Brown photo)

Friday afternoons and our “Happy Hour Socials” are a very popular in house event and are well attended by the wider community.

This activity, with different entertainers every week, is a time to socialize, enjoy snacks and just be together.

Staff and residents alike enjoy this time, and we are proud to show off our lovely home to the community.

Come and join us any Friday!

As we continue our journey toward Christmas, we are already ablaze in conversation about what will be happening in the house.

The decorations are up, and we are excited to be in this busy month looking forward to family and friends, music and visitors, but also the peace and joy of the beauti-

ful season. I personally, and on behalf of all our residents and staff, want to take this opportunity to wish one and all a Blessed and joyous December and a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

Carolyn Brown is a Community Relations Associate at Riverside Court Retirement Residence in Woodstock.

16

CONNECTION

Celebrating Inclusion, Diversity, and Community

International students share holiday traditions

WHS AEI students celebrate first Christmas in New Brunswick

By Rebecca Dykeman

C

hristmas is a special time of year.

This festive season will be especially exciting for Woodstock High School’s current international students, as it marks their first time celebrating the holidays in Canada.

These youth are studying in Woodstock through Atlantic Education International Inc., an organization founded by the province of New Brunswick in 1997.

AEI hosts the New Brunswick International Student Program, through which students ages 1118 from around the world can attend school in the

province for a full academic year, one semester, or a stay of four to twelve weeks.

During this time, they go to class alongside New Brunswick students, live with a host family, and participate in activities in their school and community. They also have the chance to work on their English language skills and form new and lasting friendships.

WHS has eight AEI students learning within their building this semester. For most of them, the main reason why they chose to study abroad was to improve their English. How-

ever, some of the teens have specific reasons why they decided to come to Canada over other countries.

German Grade 10 student Raihana Fdil stated she chose to attend school here because she thought it was a nice and pretty country, while Spanish Grade 10 student Aina Vedret said she was drawn here by her desire to learn more about Canadian culture.

Sometimes students from far away places are caught off guard by the harsh winter weather Canada experiences. However, this group seems to

Some of Woodstock High School’s international students who will be experiencing their first Canadian Christmas later this month. From left to right: Raihana Fdil, Kevin Ipekoglu, Cecilia Santos, and Aina Vedret. (Rebecca Dykeman photo)

ACTIVITIES TO SHARE?

PLEASE SUBMIT

BY THE FIRST OF EACH MONTH!

EMAIL: jim@ rivervalleysun.ca

have been well-prepared.

“I thought it would be colder!” said Vedret.

Though not all of the AEI students celebrate Christmas, a few of them had some favourite traditions they wanted to share.

Grade 11 student Kevin Ipekoglu from Germany said that Christmas there is very similar to how it is celebrated in North America. They put up and decorate trees, and they open presents on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. He also mentioned that he

likes going to church with his family on Christmas Day. Vedret brought up the fact that people in Spain don’t put gifts in stockings.

Instead, they put small presents inside a hollowed-out log called a tió.

According to myth, when the tió is heated or beaten with sticks, gifts will drop out of it.

Brazilian Grade 11 student Cecilia Santos explained that one of her favourite holiday activities is much like Secret Santa, where a group of friends

gets together and writes their names on slips of paper.

Each person in the group picks a name and then has to get a present for the person they drew secretly. She also talked about a tradition that takes place annually on Jan. 6th when the arrival of the three wise men at Bethlehem is celebrated.

Soon school will let out for the holidays. Here’s hoping these bright young minds have a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 17

Christmas concerts, crying, and embracing my emotions

FINDING ME

By Rebecca Dykeman

S

ome of my most notable holiday memories are of Christmas concerts at the old Woodstock Centennial Elementary School.

Every year, our teachers taught us cute Christmas tunes, and we rehearsed skits. Then, our parents would stuff us in dressy clothes, and we were bussed off to the Woodstock High School theatre to perform for them.

While I’m sure my parents and grandparents

thought these concerts were cute, and while they were fun when I was little, they’re a tad embarrassing to remember now.

One concert, in particular, is especially so.

I’m an emotional person. Music, movies, and books make me cry. I was even more sensitive in my elementary school years, and I hated crying in front of people.

So in Grade 4, when a song on our concert setlist made me tear up, I knew I had a crisis on my hands.

The first time my class listened to it, I started weeping. Our poor music teacher noticed and took me out into the hallway, apologizing because she thought she’d said something to upset me. I had to explain - in between sobs - that she hadn’t done anything, and it was

a cheesy children’s song that had made me sad.

Talk about humiliating!

After that incident, we agreed that I could sit out during that song at the performance. I put on a brave face as I sat with my family, so determined not to cry. Despite my best efforts to maintain my composure, I ended up bawling. My mom had to console me. What a calamity!

Looking back on that memory now, I cringe, but I also laugh at myself. I’ve come a long way since those days when crying at a Christmas concert was my biggest problem.

I wish I could go back and tell myself not to be so embarrassed.

As I grow older and become more in touch with myself, I try to keep in mind that it’s okay to be

Me, looking rather melancholy onstage at the Woodstock Centennial Elementary School Christmas concert in 2011. (Annette Dykeman photo)

emotional. Now when a song comes on my playlist that brings tears to my eyes (say, for instance, Father and Son by Cat Stevens), I allow myself to feel whatever comes up.

Life is full of feelings, positive and negative.

Why try to hide how I feel when something moves me? Why shouldn’t I embrace this part of myself that makes me human, that makes me who I am?

So cry at that song, little Rebecca. It’s okay.

Merry Christmas.

Rebecca Dykeman is a Grade 12 student at Woodstock High School. This semester she’s working with the River Valley Sun and agelessNB magazine through her school’s coop program.

Nackawic kicks off holiday celebrations The town is shining bright this Christmas season Story and photos by Jim Dumville

T

he Town of the Bend is shining bright for Christmas after Nackawic hosted its annual treelighting ceremonies on Friday evening, Dec. 6.

The evening’s events began with a large group of residents, carrying can-

dles and singing carols, walking from the Nackawic Arena and Lions Club parking lot to the town hall where they were greeted by town officials for the official tree-lighting ceremony.

After a few short words

of welcome, Miss Nackawic Sydney Sharpe and First Princess Marielle Boone shared the honour of lighting the tree in front of the municipal building.

From there, the crowd moved inside the Nackawic Fire Hall where Santa,

who had just arrived on a fire truck, waited to greet the children and hand out candy canes.

The relaxing event provided residents with a great chance to socialize and share hot drinks and Christmas sweets.

’s unty uter o C eton omp Carl mical crvice o e econrepair s

Far right: The Christmas tree is now shining in front of Nackawic town hall. Centre: Anna Cernivz reaches into Santa Claus’s basket of candy canes. Top left: Miss Nackawic Sydney Sharpe and First Princess Marielle Boone had the honour of lighting the tree. Above: A table set up in the fire hall contain a wide variety of Christmas treats.

Tech Billinnician B ria gs to heis here n lp!

Comprehensive Computer Repair and Support Unit #2, 662 Main Street, Woodstock (506) 323-9216 or email brian.billings@bellaliant.net

18

ARTFELT

Arts and Culture News from Western New Brunswick

Wishing you merry mindfulness

ARTiculate

By Victoria Hutt

B

e present. It sounds simple right? We all read this advice more than ever around the holidays.

But how? We all seem to crave a little unbusy, offgrid cabin in the woods, but with wi-fi, please. This love-hate relationship with all that is digital is a conundrum.

The pros are vast -

technology is removing geographical barriers to achievement, engagement, and employment.

You don’t have to live beside an expert to learn from one anymore, with online communities providing a connection to mentors and instruction.

And the opportunity to publish ourselves! History is currently being written – by all of our voices and perspectives, not just those who have been approved by the victors.

The cons are a steady rise in mental health issues, sedentary lifestyles, leading to illness, overwhelmed by information overload, and addiction (which I recently read

called ‘ritualized compulsive comfort-seeking’, which seemed like a definition that makes such a difficult topic accessible).

And distraction! I recently spoke to a craft professor about the change he has seen in his program – that his students used to spend their evenings in the shop, practicing and working extra to achieve more challenging pieces. Now when they’re in class, they’re not even fully present. It reminds me of a naturalist friend telling me about the plight of the moose. They need large tracts of uninterrupted land to live on. Our phone notifications are like roads built through the land, dis-

rupting the large tracts of time we need to learn, to imagine, to be bored, to hone skills and to create.

An article I read a while back has stayed with me.

It was aimed at parents of teens about how to deal with the unease we feel parenting alongside the ever-present screens in our children’s lives. But it applied to each of us, adults and children alike.

It’s called Tether Yourself: An Awareness Strategy to Keep You from Drifting from Your Best Life,

by Rachel Macy Stafford.

Look it up; it’s definitely worth the read. The article reminds us that the key is awareness. Be aware of your digital habits, set boundaries for yourself, as well as your child, and when you feel yourself drifting in the digital atmosphere, Tether yourself.

To real life, to the physical, tangible, tactile, the analog. Stafford writes, “To real people, real conversations, and real scenery. Tether yourself to

furry animals, interesting books, good music, the great outdoors. To spatulas, hammers, cameras, paintbrushes, and yoga mats.”

We are holistic, complicated beings - made up of interconnected systems and explicable only in reference to the whole.

It sometimes seems that we forget our bodies aren’t just vehicles for moving our brains around. Amidst the digital systems designed to capture our attention, our bodies need movement, touch, and human connection. This week in our parent information sheet, my son’s wise and kind teacher shared that each January, students come back to school and tell their teacher about their holidays. They mention their gifts, but their stories revolve around what they did, and with whom.

Like slow food is the answer to fast food (as our new food guide so wisely highlights the importance

of intentional time spent cooking and human connection over meals), analog is the answer to digital. Don’t wait for a power outage to practice a musical instrument. Go ahead and watch the tutorial online, then put the phone down and connect to your surroundings, your loved ones, your craft practice. I hope this holiday season you find the mindfulness and connection we’re all craving.

Victoria Hutt is an artist and freelance graphic designer in FlorencevilleBristol, NB. Former gallery director and curator, Victoria is a NSCAD design graduate and sits on the ArtsNB Board of Directors.

E-Graving.com Florenceville-Bristol NB (506) 392-6419 Barbara Meed

We can engrave anything from fondant to rocks, but we specialize in glass, acrylic, tile, wood, stone, leather, ceramics, mirror, and plastics.

Find unique and special Christmas gifts at e-graving.com!

SMALL WORKS

Andrew & Laura McCain Art Gallery GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFTS!

Listen to the “Voice of Revival”

LOCAL NEW BRUNSWICK ART & CRAFT

Join Pastor Carter and singers from The Old Fashion Revival Center, 13 Kinney Road, Blaine, Maine, every Sunday at 8:05 a.m. (9:05 AT) on WXME 780 AM & 98.3 FM Radio.

You can also hear him every Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. (1:30 AT) on WFST 600 AM Radio, and live streaming at www. familyradiofst.com.

AFFORDABLE – EVERYTHING UNDER $200! for details, visit the Gallery on facebook OPENS SATURDAY NOV 23 AT 10:30am AND RUNS UNTIL DECEMBER 21 • GALLERY IS OPEN TUESDAY THRU SATURDAY Pastor H.M. Carter

Morohubu: Ending on a high note!

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 19

Popular group disbands as key member moves to Toronto

By Ken Moir

T

he run is over for Morohubu, the rock band which has been a favourite for upper St. John River Valley music lovers for the past seven years.

On Saturday, Dec. 7, Mororubu played its final show at A.C. Sharkey’s in Florenceville-Bristol.

The band, which derived its name from the first two letters of its four members, John Morris on keyboards, Randy Ross on drums, Steven Hubbard on lead guitar and Andrew Bull on vocals and bass.

With Hubbard heading to Toronto in the new year to pursue other interests, band members decided to end its exciting sevenyear run.

Morohubu went out in style with a relaxed, loose and brilliant two-hour performance showcasing their musicianship.

The band formed in 2012 upon a foundation built of friendship and respect.

“One that has allowed

each of us to grow as people and as musicians,” said Hubbard. “Being in a band is like being in a relationship and I believe it is our friendship that has allowed us to accomplish what we have been able to do musically.”

The band, born out in a basement jam session for fun, accomplished everything they set out to, said Ross.

“We’ve done festivals, have released original music and played over 50 shows,” he said.

Ross, a well known local drum instructor, said Morohubu was a learning experience for him.

“As a music educator, I can honestly say this has been the best education I could have asked for.”

Morris said his seven years with his friends in Morohubu was a special time in his life.

“For me personally I will say this has been the best experience I have ever had playing in a band,” he said.

Morohubu features, from left, John Morris, Andrew Bull, Randy Ross, and Steven Hubbard. (Ken Moir photo)

All four members agree.

While all band members point to their growth as musicians during their years together, Morohubu’s legacy will be what it did for the local music scene.

A.C. Sharkey’s, which Hubbard fondly calls the “Shark Tank,” served as a fitting venue for Morohubu’s final performance. It

was the site of the band’s first gig in 2013.

Hubbard praised A.C. Sharkey’s owner and management for their commitment to the local music scene.

Since that debut performance at the Shark Tank, Morohubu has garnered a wide following in several markets as part of Carleton County’s rich musical talent. In addi-

tion to concerts across the province, Morohubu has taken the stage in numerous music festivals, including as headliners at the Dooryard Arts Festival and performances at the prestigious Harvest Jazz and Blues Festival.

The band made an important contribution to the Upper St. John River Valley music and cultural scene, but, for lead singer

Bull, Morohubu’s most important impact may have been personal.

“If Morohubu hadn’t existed there would be a good possibility I would be out of music completely,” he said. “The music we have created as a band I will remember for the rest of my life.”

And so will music lovers throughout the Upper St. John River Valley.

Family appreciates continued support for Emma’s PJ drive The Pearsons thank community for generosity Submitted

F

or the fifth year, Kim and Brent Pearson and their sons are overwhelmed by the support for the annual pyjama drive in memory of their daughter Emma.

“Year after year, ‘Emma’s PJs’ has spread and grown far beyond anything we could have imagined, said Kim Pearson. “That is due in large part to the involvement of most of our area schools and several businesses that promote and collect pyjamas for a few weeks in November and December.”

The Pearsons expressed their gratitude to teachers, administrators, support staff, students,

and parents of the many schools in the region and beyond.

“We could not do this without you all,” said Kim, noting collection days are their favourite days of the year. “Walking into schools and seeing the posters students have made on the walls, and the decorated boxes full of PJs warms our hearts every single time. These kids know Emma’s name and some know her story.

They all know she loved PJs, being a good friend and helping others.”

The Pearsons also thanked the schools that invited them to their “PJs and Books” celebrations, in which students wore

PJs and read their favourite books by flashlight.

“Emma loved pyjamas, and she also loved to read, usually wearing her own comfy jammies,” said Kim. “We could see her in each one of you. It brought tears to our eyes.”

The Pearsons thanked the schools which hosted Pyjama Day in which students paid a twoonie to wear PJs for the day.

They thanked the smaller schools who delivered big donations.

The Pearson family thanked Hartland Community School for its involvement and support over the years. Support for PJ Day came from outside the region, with

the family thanking Grand Manan Consolidated School and teacher Miss Emily Sullivan, originally from Florenceville.

The family also extends many thank yous to local businesses who have been supporting PJ Day, many since day one.

In the first four years of Emma’s PJs, donations surpassed 2,400 pairs of new pyjamas for women and children in our area.

“Go big or go home,” said Kim. “I can hear Emma saying that now, smiling her big, beautiful smile and chuckling.

We sure do miss our girl and Christmas is especially hard. This helps immensely.”

Note: The Pearson family’s full thank you letter, with accompanying photos, can be seen on River Valley Sun Facebook page.

20

OFF THE GRID

By Darius Shahrokhi

D

o you ever feel like you’re preaching to the converted? Well, before I start this month’s column, I would like to thank both of my readers for faithfully attending my sermons! LOL! With the holidays quickly upon us, no one, not even someone living off-grid, with no TV, radio or cable, is safe from the never-ending advertising on everything from gadgets and cars to vacations and jewelry. Even

Sustainable (and simple!) gift giving this season the charity organizations recognize this time of the year as the second-best time to collect. (I know that some of you are rattling your brains trying to figure out when exactly is the best time to donate.

Well, it’s when there is a natural or man-made disaster. Now let’s move on!)

Despite the myriad of advertisements, I wonder if we can sit back, turn off our radios, phone notifications, TVs, and other noises long enough to think about a unique, thoughtful, meaningful and personalized gift to give someone or ourselves? Are we also able to choose a gift with a small carbon footprint that has little to no packaging or man-made materials?

Let me help. Here are a few ideas:

Handmade gifts Choose the recipient’s favourite colours, or specific needs, and make something special.

Local products/services Shopping locally is a gift that keeps on giving to your community.

Cook or bake something Better yet, do this with them! Use their favourite ingredients. Don’t go nuts looking for an elaborate recipe because, a) searching the world wide web will exhaust you, and b) it may totally flop and ruin your day. (Unless you’re one of those enlightened folks who can see a flop as a joyful experience and journey in itself. In that case, you probably don’t need to be reading this article because you already have Christmas giving all figured out! To you, I say

cheers!)

Plan something Do or make something really nice for that special someone in your life.

That part might be easy, but the harder part might be disconnecting from the many distractions, rather than the actual task of gift-giving.

Gift yourself A reminder that you, too, are a special someone, and that means it’s also essential to gift yourself. It’s not a selfish act at all. In fact, if gifting yourself makes you happy or puts you in a healthier state of mind, that happiness will invariably spread to those around you and beyond. It, too, is a gift that keeps on giving.

As always, if you are looking for sources of inspiration, ideas, recipes, a natural venue for

an event, or a place to escape, or even a bit of company, you (both! lol) know where to find me!

Namaste.

For gardening help, off-grid/ sustainable living coaching, yoga, or event planning reach me by email at: greenearthling@gmail.com

Darius Shahrokhi is an inventor, writer, environmentalist, foodie, technology enthusiast, gardener, and photographer. He works as a sustainable living coach and consultant and lives off-grid with his family near Knowlesville.

A safe space for transplant recipients Lung Association support group offers help

By Barbara Walls

I

n 2010 The New Brunswick Lung Associations’ (NBLA) created a safe space for people from New Brunswick (and other Atlantic provinces) who are needing a lung transplant or have had a lung(s) transplant, to come together in private.

We created two “paths,” leading to this program: One is the “Lung Transplant Support Group NB,” Facebook page (which is closed to only members) and the Support Group Program (Information for the Journey).

Here you can ask questions, share experiences, get answers, inspire each other and encourage each other. You can find out answers about financial resources or how to create them, emotional and psychological support. You can also find out how to

be prepared in all ways for your journey and surgery, how to find accommodations, and much more.

You can ask to join our closed Facebook group at www.facebook.com/ groups/LungTransplantSupportGroupNB The second is the oneon-one communication available to inform you of programs and resources.

Here is a list of the Support Information we offer to NB Patients going for a Lung Transplant to Toronto or Montreal: We provide documents with the following information: 1. Prior Approval for Assessment Week Instructions 2. Prior approval for “Once You are Listed for Transplant” instructions 3. The steps to getting on the list in Toronto 4. Information on the daily

allowance from Medicare for the patient and their support person when they go for assessment weeks, and when they go back for checkups.

5. What NB Medicare will reimburse you for apartment rent costs, and how to apply for reimbursement 6. Also, I can send information about the assistance provided by NS, PEI, and Newfoundland/ Labrador.

7. List of hotels near the Toronto Hospital (places patients have stayed with all information needed) 8. Apartment contact in Toronto for when you move (we have a reputable apartment contact who manages several apartments near Toronto General Hospital.

9. Travel (Air Canada, WestJet, Porter Airlines, Via Rai), how to save

were Bobae Lee and Harper Ball. Both students attend Meduxnekeag Consolidated School.

Hartland Fire Chief and NB Association of Fire Chiefs Past President Mike Walton, Woodstock Fire Chief Harold McLellan, and Provincial Fire Marshal Mark Nowlan (and fire investivation dog Mallow) were on hand for the presentations in early December.

WFD Chief Harold McLellan, Fire Marshal Mark Nowlan, and Hartland Fire Chief Mike Walton present prizes to winner Bobae Lee. (Stephen Chisholm photo)

Back row, from left: Terrence Dickinson, Donnie Ritchie, and Barbara Walls. Front row, from left: Randy Melanson, Johnny Anderson, Retta Stennick-Flowers, Danny Daye, Gloria Goddard-Lambert, and Andy Roussell. (Photo submitted)

money for your support person’s fare, and oxygen limits.

10. How to set up a GoFundMe page.

11. Give $500.00 to patients once they are listed.

NOTE: This is for New Brunswick patients only.

12. If need be, I can talk to you about getting help from Social development, what NB provincial health

Fire Prevention Week winners

plans are for low-income people and provide those contacts.

13. We are willing to have people call and join our group from other Atlantic Provinces.

For further information, call Barbara Walls, BN. M. Ed. (Adult) Director of Health Promotion and Initiatives at the NBLA. 1-506-455-8961 Ext. 107

or in NB 1-800-565-5864.

Ext. 107.

We can provide support in both official languages. Contact Chantal Babineau-Clark, RRT at 1-506-478-1618, chantal. babineau-clark@nb.lung. ca for services in French.

She is volunteering on Tuesday and Thursday to assist with anyone needing information in French.

By Stephen Chisholm

T

he theme for Fire Prevention Week was Not Every Hero Wears A Cape.

Students throughout New Brunswick, in kindergarten to Grade 5, could put their name in for a draw for their chance to be Fire Chief for a Day. Winners received a classroom visit from fire safety guests, got to ride on a fire truck, and were presented with a backpack of prizes..

Local prize winners

Hartland Fire Chief Mike Walton, WFD Chief Harold McLellan, and Fire Marshal Mark Nowlan present prizes to winner Harper Ball. (Stephen Chisholm photo)

RVS SUNSHINE KIDS

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 21

AVONDALE KITCHENS Kitchen Renos: Creating the Perfect Space for Gathering

SUNSHINE SMILE: Meet seven-year-old Oakley White, and his fiveyear-old brother, Damien, of Beardsley, N.B. Sons of Michael and Natasha White, both are students at Meduxnekeag Consolidated School. Oakley’s favourite pastime is hockey, and he’d like to be a professional hockey player when he grows up. Damien loves jumping in fall leaves, and would like to be a wrestler when he grows up. Both received a special early Christmas gift this year. Their Grammie, Ann White, sent them to see an NHL game in Boston this fall – just like their father got to do when he was their age. (Photo submitted.)

Send your Sunshine Kid pictures to theresa@rivervalleysun.ca

The River Valley Sunshine Kid is sponsored by Angie’s Little Peeps Early Learning & Childcare Centre in Woodstock. Find them on Facebook.

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

‘Gathering’ means many things to different people. Some homes are open to friends and family seven days a week. Others see gatherings more as special occasions, with party themes involved. For most, either of these descriptions mean lots of people and not enough space to enjoy them.

Fortunately, gathering rooms adjacent to an open concept kitchen is a popular footprint in today’s homes. It brings an intimacy to the occasion by including everyone at the same time, and makes for a closeness when everyone can be involved in the gathering.

With the proper design, a kitchen can be both a cook space and entertainment area. There are tricks of design to keep the eaters out of the main work, giving the workers room. Try adding an auxiliary single sink to an island to give access to water or for a food-prep area. Also keeping bar stool areas to the outside perimeter of cabinets provides a makeshift audience for the ones preparing the feast, turning the cook area into the stage.

An island also makes a great buffet serving area with easy access all the way around. A multi level island counter will also act as a slight barrier to the great room seating area so the mess created in the kitchen while you are whipping up a tasty meal is concealed. So what if there are a few dirty dishes in the sink? No one will notice.

I have never heard of a homeowner who opened their kitchen into another room having any regrets. An open-concept kitchen design helps your home feel more comfortable, welcoming, and makes entertaining a breeze.

Before

- Jim Lawrence Kitchen Designer

Open-concept kitchen designs make your home more welcoming After

The transformation of Joy and Tony Reid’s home in Woodstock, N.B.

AVONDALE

KITCHENS See more cartoons at www.missnackawic.com

For weekly kitchen makeovers, follow Avondale Kitchens on Facebook or see past blog posts at AvondaleKitchens.com

317 Lockhart Mill Road, Woodstock, NB (506) 328-4111

22

RURAL ROOTS

Stories About Country Life in Western New Brunswick

A bag full of happiness

LIVING HISTORY

By Doris Kennedy The following is a fictional account of actual events.

T

here were squeals and sounds of snowsuits and winter jackets rustling from the constant movement. It was a sea of bobbing heads stretching towards the front of the theatre to get a clear view of the stage.

The mood was of nothing but elation in anticipation of seeing the gentle old soul in the red suit. The organizer of the event took center stage to welcome everyone to the afternoon event in the Hartland Capitol Theatre, followed by the Christmas story. The mention of a Santa sighting near the

town sent the crowd into delightful cheers, even though he was still a distance away.

The curtains were opened for the audience to watch a show or a cartoon on the screen to help kids with their wait time. Shoulders dropped, and the head stretches subsided as the children settled into their seats while the overflow sat on the floor. There was silence for those minutes, but when “The End“ appeared on the screen, the flow of movement began.

Not enough time had been wasted as Santa was still on the outskirts of town, so maybe some singing would help fill in the time. The crowd was obliging, but after the fourth or fifth song enough was enough. The restlessness was becoming apparent to the organizers. When the host suggested singing, “Here Comes Santa Claus,” the gathering knew the time was near. Children quickly hustled to their feet and

began to sing with excessive energy. The thought seemed, the louder one sang, the quicker he would appear. Then it happened. A loud “Ho Ho Ho!” was heard, and the audience quickly went quiet for mere seconds then burst into deafening cheers with arms waving and bodies bouncing up and down in excitement.

Santa quickly made his way to the front of the stage and positioned himself to get ready to meet his audience.

One by one and in quick order, the children formed a line and made their way to meet the main attraction. Santa’s attention was given to each child; then, he handed them a large brown paper bag filled with nuts, ribbon candy, chocolates, and an orange or an apple. The squeals of delight continued as the children, made their way out the exit with their eyes upon their bag.

Santa bid them goodbye with a warning that tonight he would reappear

The old Capitol Theatre in Woodstock. (Photo submitted)

in their homes, but they were to get to bed early so he could do his work.

The early traditional visit was not new. Before the theatre, built in 1946, the large Christmas tree stood at the end of the covered bridge beside the service station. The lean years in 1940 made people creative around the Christmas season.

The Town Council appointed Owen Clark to be in charge of finding a Christmas tree. That year he not only put up a tree but also organized a fundraising event to send money to the Saint John Orphanage. He sought out local merchants to do-

Coldstream WI hosts ladies tea

nate funds to buy goodies for 100 treat bags as well.

As a bonus, a local potato shipper brought a load of oranges back on the train in exchange for potatoes he shipped. Oranges, which were hard to get then, was one of the favourite treats. He then advertised a treegathering event.

On Christmas Eve afternoon, a crowd of parents and children came from distances by horse and sleigh and gathered near the tree at the end of the bridge. Children perched on their fathers shoulders waited in anticipation for the same jolly gentleman in the red suit.

Screams heard above the Christmas Carolers announced the arrival of old St. Nick in his horse-drawn sleigh ringing sleigh bells in his outstretched hand. The sleigh made its way to the service station and like in the theatre; gleeful children made their way to the old gentleman to receive, for some, their only Christmas present.

Doris Kennedy is a retired nurse, writer, and historian.

Married with four children and 11 grandchildren, she owned the Covered Bridge B & B in Somerville for years, and is the author of five books.

Submitted

I

n appreciation to neighbours, friends, and families who have supported them over the years, the members of the Coldstream Women’s Institute recently hosted a “preChristmas breather.” The ladies’ tea welcomed guests to visit, eat goodies, and relax before the rush and pressures of the holiday season. Approximately 40 ladies attended the tea. The Coldstream WI used grant money presented by the Western Valley Wellness Network to make bottles of jam which were given as parting gifts. One of the WI members donated her collection of hats for guests to wear. The WI members said the fun event was so successful they plan to make it an annual event. (Photos submitted)

Jill Whitehouse, local health coach, brought her daughters (from left) Aralyn, Ava, and their friend Emma Keenan.

Let us know what’s going on !

PLEASE SUBMIT BY THE FIRST OF EACH MONTH! Email details to theresa@ rivervalleysun.ca OR jim@ rivervalleysun.ca REMEMBER: WE CAN’T SHARE IT IF WE DON’T KNOW ABOUT IT !

Sisters-in-law Karen Greer and Audrey Wasson.

WI members (from left) Ruth Estabrooks, Marjorie Dickinson, Rhonda Clark, Leona Maguire, and Debbie Prosser.

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 23

Special memories of Carleton County Christmas Trees

ADVENTURES OF AN ACCIDENTAL FARMER

By Ellen Culbert-Johnston

R

ecently I drove to Worcester, Massachusetts, to see family, friends and do a little Christmas shopping.

Preparing for my weekend getaway required notes and lists to myself.

Picture ID, check.

Passport, check. Water, check. Snacks, check.

At one point I thought I’ll never be ready to leave Newburg.

Once I was on Interstate 95 heading south, I began to relax. My, how I’ve missed that drive.

Not long into my road trip, I began to see several tractor-trailer loads of Christmas trees, heading south.

These balsam fir trees brought to mind the an-

nual pilgrimage the Nova Scotia Christmas Tree makes to Boston.

Looking at the many loads of tightly wrapped Christmas trees, I became curious whether they were heading to my brother Johnny’s Christmas tree lot.

It’s hard to believe that 28 years ago, my father Joe, along with my brother Johnny, started selling Canadian Christmas trees on the busy street corner of Fales and West Boylston Street, in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Years ago, it was common to see several roadside Christmas tree lots, dressed in Holiday style set up for the Christmas season.

As I drove through the busy city streets of Worcester, I looked for seasonal Christmas tree lots, and sadly realized they are a fading Christmas tradition.

Johnny’s Christmas tree lot was filled with people laughing and meeting smile after smile. Perhaps it was the beautiful Carleton County Christmas trees that gave the air a

feeling of Christmas.

The Christmas trees had travelled over the river and through the woods of Carleton County to spread Christmas cheer.

Year after year Christmas tree shoppers love to reminisce about how they came to Culbert Farms Christmas tree lot as a child to help select the perfect family tree.

The customers want to share their Christmas childhood memories with the wonderful group of young men who work at the Christmas tree lot.

Especially with Michael or Keith, who were young boys sweeping the Christmas tree lot when my Dad was selling trees many years ago.

There always seemed to be some action going on at the Christmas tree lot. Colouring books being given away, chainsaws were trimming the bottoms of trees, while some trees were being tied to roofs of cars. At times it seemed like a caravan of cars, trucks and SUVs lining up to secure their family Christmas tree treasure.

There were families

Christmas trees are on display at the busy corner of Fales and West Boylston Street in Worcester, Massachusetts. (Ellen Johnston photo)

chatting, children laughing, while shoppers rushed home with their tree.

To think that Christmas trees from Carleton County are standing tall, decorated in the homes

of the big city of Worcester made my heart skip a beat of Christmas joy.

By the end of a busy day, the workers are cold and tired, but knowing they made a child smile or helped a family continue

a Christmas tree tradition was worth it.

Ellen Culbert-Johnston is a teacher who loves to read, learn, travel, and walk in the woods with her dogs in Newburg.

End of the wonderful 2019 bumbling season

BEAUTIFUL BUMBLES

By Linda McHatten

A

s I sit and look out my window to the piles of snow, I think of our quad safely tucked away and realize the 2019 bumbling season is over.

Already I am counting the weeks until April 15, 2020, when the trails will officially open again.

In New Brunswick, we have two types of passes for living. In this area, we have a non-groomed pass, which means we do not have groomed trails

in the winter. Some areas have groomed trails in the winter, so they have a four-season pass. It has been a great bumbling season, except for winter arriving early. It is now time for snowmobilers to enjoy the trails.

This past season our bumbles have taken us to new trails and new adventures.

It does not matter how many times we travel the old trails; there is always some new adventure waiting for us. It is interesting to see the trails change through the seasons from bare trees in the spring to beautiful colours in the fall, which is my favourite season.

One of our favourite trails to bumble is along the Keswick River, which leads us to Zealand. I never get tired of this

route. Most of it cannot be seen by car.

It is a beautiful trail from Pembroke down through Millville passing by dead waters, lakes, rippling brooks with their lush green foliage and the occasional cottage. If we are lucky, we may even see a moose or two.

We can also see Crabbe Mountain from the trail with snow on the mountain when we make our first trip of the season. We cannot forget the reason for this bumble-PIZZA from Pizza Hut – and we are always hungry. No matter how many times we do this trail, it never gets boring. It could be due to the beautiful scenery and good company that tags along. For a change of scenery, we will sometimes take an alternate route back home,

One of our favourite spots to stop for lunch is Zealand. (Linda McHatten photo)

which will take us to Dorin Ridge and the base of Ayers Lake and back to Pembroke.

It is about a 104-mile round trip, and if you plan on joining us, it will be an all-day outing stopping often to view the scenery

or to have a friendly chat with others making a trip towards Woodstock. A great day had by all.

In closing, I would like to wish all you folks a MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!. I will see you all

on the trails in April 2020.

Be Safe!

Linda McHatten is a retired LPN who now spends her time nursing her love for the outdoors. She and her husband live in Rosedale and have three grandchildren.

Visit our new website at ayrmotor.ca to learn about our business and our people.

Please visit our CAREER pages to see what new opportunity could be waiting for you!

AYR MOTOR EXPRESS

“The best is least we can do !”

Visit our NEW website!

24

IN FOCUS

Putting the Spotlight on People in Your Community

UNIFOR MEMBERS STEP UP Union donates to Sanctuary House

By Jim Dumville

U

nifor is Canada’s largest private-sector union representing 315,000 members, including 100,000 women. Recently Unifor presented a $2,000 donation to Sanctuary House Women’s Shelter in Woodstock, as part of a $148,000 donation to shelters across Canada. Making the presentation are, from left, Velvet Watson and Jessica Etherington of Unifor, to Marion Geneau of Sanctuary House. Unifor, which has been making donations to the home for the past 12 years, recognize the important work shelter staff members do for the women in their community. (Submitted photo)

Town of Woodstock Year End Sponsor Thank Yous

The Woodstock Department of Recreation and Community Services would like to thank the following businesses and organizations. We can’t serve the community without your wonderful support. Thank you just doesn’t seem enough, but your contributions mean everything to us. (We hope we didn’t forget anyone!)

Joe McGuire Road Race: Knights of Columbus Cooks Construction Corey Ford Larsen Electric Lenehan McCain & Associates Manulife Securities Liberty Tax Corey Hyundai McLellan Brand Source Elks Club AYR Motor Express Eagles Nest Best Western Woodstock Hearing Aid Services Guardian Drug/Newnham & Slipp K-Line Construction Tim Hortons Special Needs Dances: WHS Alumni Hockey Special Olympics Youth Zone: Woodstock Rotary Club Woodstock Canadian Tire Night Sliding Party: Woodstock Fire Department Manulife Security Sobey’s Woodstock Woodstock Trail Makers Strong Girls: The Medicine Shoppe

SAW US AT AN EVENT BUT DON’T SEE COVERAGE HERE? CHECK OUT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR MORE PHOTOS AND STORIES FROM EVENTS GOING ON IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD! THE RIVER VALLEY SUN – PROVIDING FREE ACCESS TO NEWS WORTH SHARING!

Monthly Free Swim: Highlift Auto Bobby Vail Outdoor Rink: Aggcon Construction E. Cummings Contracting Green Diamond

Kent Building Supplies Cummings Building Supplies Community Metal Connell Park : *Access Washroom 2 Anonymous Donors *Basketball Court 1 Anonymous Donor *New Picnic Shelter Woodstock NBCC 1 Anonymous Donor Townsview to Connell Park Trail: (by Shiretown Field) 1 Anonymous Donor Little Mudders: Woodstock Fire Department Kids of Steel: Manulife Security Green Monster (Barney Wright Field): Anonymous Sponsors Xplornet Communications Inc. Woodstock First Nation New Year’s Eve Celebration: Valley Refrigeration & Air Conditioning Bank of Montreal Woodstock Branch Government Agencies: Consultant / Conseillère Sport and Recreation Branch/ Direction des sports et loisirs Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture / Ministère du Tourisme, du Patrimoine et de la Culture Kathy Sherwood-Orser Regional Wellness Consultant Wellness Branch – Dept. of Social Dev.

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EXCLUSIVE: Interview with Santa

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 25

Why St. Nick spends so much time in western New Brunswick

By Jim Dumville

E

ven before his magical Christmas Eve trip around the globe, December is a busy time for Santa Claus.

Understanding his worldwide commitments, we are always pleasantly surprised each year to see his ability to lift the spirits of so many people in Carleton County during the runup to Christmas Day. Fortunately, the River Valley Sun scored an exclusive interview with the Jolly Ol’ Elf himself as he explained why visiting Carleton County hospitals, nursing homes, office parties and individual families is so important.

Santa, with big help from a mystery couple right here in Woodstock, identified people and places which needed a lift in spirits that only a visit from St. Nick could bring.

It started out almost 40 years ago, said Santa, when he decided to don his famous red suit and visit the children spending Christmas Eve stuck in the old Carleton Memorial Hospital in Woodstock.

“I got there to find no one in the children’s ward,” Santa recalled.

He explained hospital staff do everything in their power to make sure children if at all possible get to spend Christmas at home.

With a load of candy canes in hand, Santa said, he decided to pass them out to adult patients who truly appreciated the visit.

“I’ve been doing it ever since,” he said.

Over the next four decades, Santa added other stops to his Carleton County visits, along with a long list of uplifting stories.

While it’s the wideeyed excitement of children which keeps him returning year after year, Santa said, adults, too, appreciate his company.

He recalls a visit to the Carleton Memorial Hospital several years ago. He said a nurse was escorting him down a hallway in the hospital when they came across a man sitting in a wheelchair in the hallway. Santa said the nurse explained the man was non-verbal but liked to spend his time sitting in the hallway.

As he passed, Santa said, the man sat motionless with his head down.

Santa decided to place a candy cane in the breast pocket of his shirt. He didn’t think the man even noticed.

“But as we walked away, we heard him say, ‘ho ho ho,’ said Santa.

He said those three little words lifted the spirits of everyone who heard them.

He recalled another touching moment when a security guard was escorting him through rooms at the hospital on Christmas Eve when they came upon a room with the door closed. He said staff explained the family inside just lost a loved one a few minutes earlier so it was best he did not go in.

As they moved on down the hallway, Santa recalled, the door to the room opened.

“Bring him back,” someone said.

Despite the tough news on Christmas Eve, Santa said, the family believed a visit from Santa was a way to lift the family’s spirits.

Santa said it was a friend spending Christmas Eve in hospital as he battled a serious heart problem who clarified why Santa visits are so important.

“So glad you came for a visit,” the man said.

“You’re what Christmas is all about.”

Over the years, Santa has been invited to countless Christmas parties and homes across the region, but he’s also been known to make a few surprise visits.

Sometimes it was simply to prove Santa is always watching.

He recalls getting a call from a father he knew well who explained his excited children just couldn’t settle down and go to bed.

Santa knew he could help and he didn’t even have to go inside.

He explained it was a cold, but foggy, night and the family home had a large spotlight that illuminated a small section of their front yard. As the children peered out the window, Santa, through the mist, walked out of the darkness through the light, then disappeared into the night.

“Their father told me that if anybody had been in their way they would have got run over as the kids rushed off to bed,”

laughed Santa.

He told us of another time when children, closely related to the couple who make sure Santa’s Woodstock-area visits happen every year, learned Santa is always watching.

Santa explained he went to the house for a visit but didn’t go in. Instead, he walked along the porch and looked in the living room window just in time to see one of the children trying to get an early peek at one of her presents.

She changed her mind quickly when she looked up and saw Santa peering at her through the window.

“There was no more peeking after that,” he chuckled.

Santa said children almost always love his advice, but that is not always true for the parents. For example, Santa reminds children he loves cookies, but his reindeer are partial to Brussel sprouts. That advice led to a phone call from a father.

“Do you know how hard it is to find Brussel sprouts in Woodstock on Christmas Eve,” said the frustrated voice on the other end of the phone call.

Santa said his Carleton County adventures keep him busy every December, but he gets back as much as he puts in.

“I have a good time,” he said, noting it’s the children’s reaction which always makes it special.

“To see the expression on their faces, the excitement.”

Over the years, Santa said, he has been surprised by some gift requests. He said he has been asked for a rifle… the real kind, not a toy. Another asked for a real ATV. In 40 years, he said, children’s wish lists have changed.

“Dolls and little toy trains don’t cut it anymore,” he laughed.

Santa says now he usually just asks if they sent their letter.

Although he’s been doing the pre-Christmas visits to Carleton County for almost 40 years, Santa has no plans to stop anytime soon.

“People seem to appreciate it, and the kid’s love it,” he said, as he ended the interview and returned to his busy schedule.

Santa Claus, inspecting a local tree, during one of his many pre-Christmas trips to our region. (Mrs. Claus photo)

No time for a staff Christmas party before the holiday? Book now for a January celebration!

Give the gift of NO DISHES this Christmas! Gift Cards make the perfect stocking stuffer!

Call 325-2829

to book your event at The River!

The River Restaurant and Bar * 558 Main Street, Woodstock Follow us on Facebook or visit our website riverrestaurant.ca

26

Shoppers campaign boosts Connecting for Life Growing Women’s Health campaign donates funds to non-profit group

By Jim Dumville

A

local organization dedicated to wellness and enhancing mental health in Woodstock and surrounding communities gained a financial boost recently thanks to Woodstock’s Shoppers Drug Mart.

On Wednesday, Nov. 20, members of the Shoppers Drug Mart in the Carleton Mall presented a cheque of $6,550 to Chelsey Phillips, president of the recently formed non-profit, Connecting For Life.

The local pharmacy raised the funds through Shoppers’ national Grow-

ing Women’s Health campaign held every October.

Beauty manager Sheila West, who served as the Woodstock Shoppers’ team captain, said the campaign raised the majority of funds through the sale of fundraising leaves, valued at $1, $5, $10 or $50, to customers.

Joining West for the presentation to Phillips were associate owner Mitch McAdam and staff member Valerie Adams, who led all staff in fundraising.

West said Adams raised $2,351 on her own during the four-week campaign. She said another event called the Beauty

Mingle held in support of the campaign brought in almost $1,000 of the more than $6,500 raised.

McAdam said the national campaign allows stores to choose recipients from their local areas.

Phillips welcomed the Shoppers support, noting it comes as Connecting For Life works to establish the Rose Wellness Centre, located in the former Pioneer Credit Union branch on Richmond Street in downtown Woodstock.

Phillips said the centre, which opened its doors in early November, plans a grand opening in

February. She said the centre’s goal is to eventually offer several wellness services, including mental health information, under one roof.

Phillips praised building owners Joel and Lynn Rose for their support in making the opening of the

centre possible. She added the location is ideal, noting its close proximity to other downtown services.

She said Connecting for Life board members and everyone involved in the opening and operation of the centre appreci-

ate the support of Shoppers through its Growing Women’s Health campaign.

West and McAdam both emphasized the success of the campaign is the result of other local businesses and area residents.

Representatives of Shoppers Drug Mart in Woodstock presents more than $6,500 raised through its Growing Women’s Health campaign in October to Connecting for Life president Chelsey Phillips. From left, Shoppers Beauty Manager Sheila West, campaign team captain; Shoppers staff member Valerie Adams, who was top fundraiser, Phillips and Woodstock Shoppers associate owner Mitch McAdam. (Jim Dumville photo)

Artistic Swimmers Compete Provincial Figures Meet held in Woodstock

Dari Delite supports ProKids

Woodstock business continues summer charity effort

W

oodstock’s Artistic Swimming Team hosted the Provincial Figures Meet at AYR Motor Center on Nov. 16. Over 80 girls from Fredericton, Saint John, Moncton, and Woodstock participated in the day long event Competing in various divisions Novice 11-12 had Varavara Shulgin win in her division.

In Provincial 10 & under had Jorja Dickinson finish ninth, Willow Paul finish seventh, and Natalie Brownridge placed fourth. In Provincial 11-12, Rylee Kitchen placed third, and in Provincial 1315 Anna Brownridge came in second.

From left, Dari Delite assistant manager April Grant, business manager Maryann Sanders, and Woodstock Recreation Program Director Jilll Dunnett. (Jim Dumville photo)

T

(Photo submitted)

he staff, management and owner of a Woodstock seasonal business worked together to help upper valley youth pursue sports and cultural interests all year long.

As it has done for the past several years, Woodstock’s Dari Delite raised funds through the summer for a local charity. On Wednesday, Nov. 21, the ice cream and food vendor’s manager Maryann Sanders and assistant manager April Grant visited the AYR Motor Centre to present more than $3,600 to Western Valley ProKids.

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 27

SPORTS

Highlights and Features of Local Athletes and Teams

Local rugby star captains Team Canada Hard work, perseverance pays off for Olivia DeMerchant

By Andrew McCormick National championships.

A

minor hockey coach once told Olivia DeMerchant’s team that “no one here is going to make the NHL.” For most, that message could have been a dream buster, but DeMerchant used the comments as fuel for her dreams.

DeMerchant’s journey jump-started when she left Debec to play hockey and rugby at Stanstead College, a private school in Quebec, in her last two years of high school. Her rugby skills earned her an invitation to Team Canada’s U20 camp.

After graduation, she continued her rugby career at St. Francis Xavier University while she worked toward a Kinesiology degree, helping the university capture two

Five years later she returned to Antigonish for her Master’s degree and helped the university capture another National title.

DeMerchant spent three seasons with the U20 team, two as a starter. She made the jump to the Senior 15 team in 2012. Today, at 28, she’s among the most senior members of the current team, having appeared in 41 contests with Team Canada.

She trains under Jack Hanratty, a Halifax-based assistant coach with the National program, and juggles her training with her career as a Kinesiologist in Halifax.

She looks fondly on her early days playing at Woodstock High School for coaches Donnie Crawford and Sarah Gray.

“We had such a melting pot of individuals playing. We had so much fun.”

DeMerchant credits her family for her opportunities and success.

“My Mom and Dad (Chris and Sandra) have always been there to provide opportunities for me, like when I went to prep school,” she said. “They first were on a plane I think in 2009 when I played U20 in British Columbia. We grew up on a dairy farm, which meant there weren’t any holidays or trips for my Dad. When I began to travel to play rugby, Dad sold the dairy farm so they could watch me in person more,” she said.

Sisters Nicole LoganDeMerchant and Kathleen Phillips and brother Jesse are also big fans.

Rugby has taken De-

Merchant to New Zealand, Australia, Bahamas, England, and to World Cups in Ireland in 2017 and France in 2014.

On the field, DeMerchant said, the game has changed immensely.

“It’s not just crashing and banging. We play more patiently which leads to more scoring.”

How does DeMerchant describe her own game?

“I’m a hard-working defender. I pride myself on defence. I don’t like to be beaten individually on a play.”

During Team Canada’s most recent tour in California, DeMerchant was named team captain.

In California, they beat Team USA twice, moving Canada up to third place in World Rankings.

For head coach Sandro Fiorino, DeMerchant,

Team

Canada

Rugby

Captain

Olivia

DeMerchant.

and her teammates, the focus is to build team depth over the next 18 months and peak in July 2021 at the next World Cup in New Zealand.

DeMerchant has a message for our area’s young athletes.

“Don’t let where you

come from limit your potential, even if you don’t succeed at first. I was actually cut from my first Provincial team tryout.

You can be your own worst enemy by giving up or you can be your greatest force in achieving your potential.”

Old Timers team that are still young at heart. This eclectic group has been together since 1981.

Recently, the team designed a new logo which I believe is one of the best hockey logos ANYWHERE. You be the judge.

As you read in the story above, Olivia DeMerchant was named the captain of the Team Canada rugby squad. With that international accomplishment, the River Valley Sun is naming her this region’s Athlete of the Year.

Big cheers for local athletes Saluting this region’s best in 2019

By Andrew McCormick

L

et’s hear it for golfer Daniel Kirby of Woodstock. Kirby was named Golf New Brunswick’s Junior Player of the Year for the season just completed.

Put your hands together for pitcher Drew Lenehan of Woodstock,

who was named a double award winner at the Baseball New Brunswick season-ending awards banquet. Lenehan took home the age 15U AAA Pitcher of the Year, and shared the 2019 Minor Baseball Player of the Year award.

The Baseball New Brunswick “Paul Melanson Volunteer of the Year” award was presented to Steven and Holly Jones of Woodstock.

Evie Astle, a member of River Valley Gymnastics (RVG) was named the New Brunswick

Gymnastics Association Athlete of the Year. This award reflects the excellent coaching and staff of the RVG organization, led by Jayne Geddes.

Finally, I’d like to recognize the Nackawic Old Hawks hockey team.

The Old Hawks are an

Have local sports news to share with the RVS? Email andrew at

andrew@ rivervalleysun.ca Daniel Kirby

Drew Lenehan

Steven & Holly Jones

Evie Astle

Old Hawks Logo

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Thank you for shopping local and supporting us throughout this holiday season ! Join us in wishing everyone a healthy and prosperous new year !

Lakeville Village Convenience Life Cycle Financial Services Ltd. Marco Medical Ltd. McBrine Logging Ltd. McCain Foods (Canada) McCain Produce Inc. McLaughlin Dental Group McLaughlin Farms Melissa’s Pet Services Multicultural Association of Carleton County Northern Carleton Pharmacy P.D. Foster Insurance (1982) Ltd. Pearson Engineering Inc. Pizza Delight Potato World Primerica - Nancy Andrews Rachel Taylor - Tupperware Renouf Law Office River Valley Sun Rockwood Software Ltd. Rogers Electrical Plumbing & Heating Scotiabank Second Wind Music Centre Shamrock Train Inn & Suites Skin Conscious Medical Esthetics Spa Smith Drugs Ltd. Southpork Creations Spoil Me! Salon & Spa Steven A. Cote Construction Ltd. Terry Underhill Town of Florenceville-Bristol Vintner’s Cellar R-N-G Winery Village Designs Vogue Optical Wicked Good Graphics

Wicked Good Graphics L. Nelson Forestry Services Vogue Optical Kevin A. Brown Vintner’s Cellar R-N-G Winery JT’s Flowers & Gifts Village Designs Hunter Brothers Farm Market Town of Florenceville-Bristol H.J. Crabbe & Sons Terry Underhill GraphXperts Steven A. Cote Construction Graham Auto Parts Ltd. / NAPA Spoil Me! Salon & Spa Gorey’s Auto Repair Southpork Creations Glenn’s Grocery Smith Drugs Fresh Fine Dining Skin Conscious Medical Esthetics Spa Fancy Coffee Services Shamrock Train Inn & Suites Exit Realty Platinum Second Wind Music Centre E-Graving.com Scotiabank Dr. Louiselle St. Amand Rogers Electrical Plumbing & Heating Dr. Harvey Bass Rockwood Software Diner Down Under River Valley Sun Newspaper CBDC Southwest Renouf Law Office Carleton-Victoria Wood Producers Assoc.

Rachel Taylor - Tupperware Carleton-Fundy Mutual Insurance Primerica - Nancy Andrews Carleton Enterprises Potato World Carleton Co-Op NB Liquor Agency Pizza Delight Carleton Co-Op Grocery Store Pearson Engineering Carleton Co-Op Country Store P.D. Foster Insurance (1982) Bridgefront Service Station Northern Carleton Pharmacy Brennan Home Hardware Building Centre Multicultural Assoc. of Carleton County Besthome Building Supplies Melissa’s Pet Services Bell’s Woodlots McLaughlin Farms Bell Wire Products McLaughlin Dental Group Atlantic Commodities McCain Produce Armour Meats McCain Foods (Canada) Andrew & Laura McCain Art Gallery McBrine Logging agelessNB Magazine Marco Medical Accurate Tax Services Life Cycle Financial Services A.N.D. Communication & Graphics Lakeville Village Convenience A.C. Sharkey’s Pub & Grill

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