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Volume 7 Issue 12
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RIVER VALLEY SUN December 2025
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URVH doctor breaks silence on offsite surgical management DECH control threatens rural hospital’s future – Dr. Bill Goodine
care,
By Theresa Blackburn
D
r. Bill Goodine has worked behind the scenes for nearly two years, trying to help ‘fix’ problems with surgical scheduling and staffing at the Upper River Valley Hospital (URVH) in Waterville. The respected ophthalmologist has served patients in the region for 37 years and is set to retire in June 2026. “When the issues with our surgical department were first brought to my attention, I was suspicious,” Goodine told the River Valley
Sun. He said the hospital’s ‘problems’ began when orthopedic surgeries started being performed in Waterville’s OR. “It was a good thing,” admitted Goodine. “We were getting rid of a (provincial) backlog, our staff welcomed them with open arms, and the surgical theatre was busy and productive. But within six months, more extensive changes were planned for the OR schedule and our two local surgeons advised against those. They felt
those changes would prevent them from fulfilling the mission of their department, which is to provide quality, general surgical services in a timely manner to the Upper River Valley.” Dr. Gurpreet Singh Ranger then resigned as Chief of Staff, and Horizon later removed him from the head of surgery position. Someone from Fredericton replaced him. “Over time, our local OR head nurse poSee URVH on pg.4
*See more photos from the event at rivervalleysun.ca
FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS: The Special Olympics Torch Light Parade helped kick off the season in downtown Woodstock on Nov. 22. (Theresa Blackburn photo)
URVH gets MRI Modular Accommodation Unit Building arrives to much excitement by URVH Foundation members, staff By Theresa Blackburn
T
he unit will house a permanent state-ofthe-art 1.5 Tesla MRI device. Horizon Health said the new MRI will help alleviate wait times for MRI scans in the province. In Oct. 2023, the Upper River Valley Hospital Foundation announced it had reached its $3 million fundraising goal to purchase the unit and building. A generous family
donation secured $1.4 million for the unit, and community donations helped raise the $1.6 million needed for the modular accommodation building. Horizon Communications Specialist Maggie Estey said the new suite will be ready in the new year. “We’re pleased to confirm that construction and installation work on the new
The modular accommodation unit that will house the MRI at the Upper River Valley Hospital in Waterville arrived today, Nov. 18. (Theresa Blackburn photo)
modular MRI suite at Horizon’s Upper River Valley Hospital (URVH) will be completed in late December,” said Estey in an email to the River
Valley Sun. “The new suite will begin serving patients in January, with an official grand See MRI on pg. 4
2 DEC. 2025
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French school for Woodstock, but what about Carleton North? Local MLA assured new school announced in 2023 still on priority list
By Theresa Blackburn
W
hen the Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development announced six major infrastructure projects on Wednesday, Dec. 3, one of them was a new francophone school for Woodstock, but it made no mention of a new school for Florenceville-Bristol, first announced by the Blaine Higgs government in June of 2023. The new school is set to replace Bath Community School, Bristol Elementary, Florenceville Elementary, and Florenceville Middle schools, and was initially scheduled to open in 2026. Since then, a school site has not been chosen, and the project still has no start date. Carleton-Victoria MLA Margaret Johnson says the lack of information and movement on the file is “political theatre,” but said she has confirmed the project is still a go. “I have been assured by the Minister of DTI (Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Minister Chuck Chaisson) and officials in the Depart-
ment of Education that the Carleton North Project has not been shuttered,” she told the River Valley Sun in an email. “Final agreements are being made, and there should be a fulsome announcement in the spring.” Just before the 2024 provincial election, Johnson, Woodstock-Hartland MLA Bill Hogan, and Carleton-York MLA Richard Ames invited reporters to a photo op at the ‘preferred site’ of the new school, along Route 130 in Florenceville-Bristol. DTI has not yet confirmed that site. The River Valley Sun requested clarification from the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development about the new school announced for the District of Carleton North. In an emailed response, department spokesperson Alison Taylor said the school is still on the province’s list, and no site has been chosen. “The new K-8 school for Carleton North is a high-priority project that will renew and right-size
the elementary school infrastructure in the Bath/ Florenceville/Bristol area,” wrote Taylor. “The site selection process is nearing completion and an announcement is expected in due course.” On Wednesday, when Education Minister Claire Johnson released the details of a new Frenchlanguage school for the Woodstock area, the plans took many by surprise, including two local MLAs. “I would question the necessity,” said Margaret Johnson. “In my opinion, we should be doing less to divide our two linguistic populations and place more focus on assuring that all children are learning French and are proficient in both official languages.” Former Education Minister and Woodstock-Hartland MLA Bill Hogan also questioned the infrastructure announcement. “I’m not sure that we have a sufficient francophone population to support a new school,” he said. “I’d love to know the stats.”
According to the 2021 Census statistics, the proportion of the population who can conduct a conversation in French in the Woodstock region was between 10 and 30 per cent. In the 2016 Canada Census, the area was listed as having fewer than 5 per cent of residents who could speak French. In a news release, the department says the francophone school was “added based on census data to ensure minority language education rights are protected and promoted, as required under Section 23 of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.” The minister said funding a francophone school in Carleton County is a priority. “It’s fundamental to New Brunswick that students from both linguistic communities can access the education they need in the official language they speak,” said Johnson. “We will continue to provide that, and to perform ongoing evaluations to ensure that these charter needs are met everywhere in the province.”
Just before the 2024 provincial election, MLAs, from left, Richard Ames ( Carleton-York), Margaret Johnson (Carleton-Victoria), and Bill Hogan (Woodstock-Hartland) held a photo op at the ‘preferred site’ of the new school to be built in Florenceville-Bristol. (Facebook photo)
Federal funding for French-language education is available through Heritage Canada under the Intergovernmental Cooperation on Minority Language Education agreement. The province didn’t announce Woodstock’s specific cost, the funding it will seek from the federal government, or the school’s location in its announcement. In addition to individual school projects, the funds will also pay for modular programs, new equipment, improvements and repairs, and the dust collector program to ensure schools are safe and dependable for staff and stu-
dents. On the provincial education infrastructure priority list, a mid-life upgrade for Woodstock High School is now ranked 10th out of 15. The projects on that list are identified through the department’s annual capital planning and evaluation process. The list allows district education councils to determine which improvement projects will be required for their schools in the next five years. Unless there is a significant change in scope or an emergency, each project on the list will remain on the list until it is funded.
Helping people, one meal at a time
Horizon Health volunteer program improves URVH patient outcomes
By Paige Morgan, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
O
ver the past three months, Upper River Valley Hospital (URVH) has received 310 patient visits through the “Meal Mates” volunteer program. The program aims to increase or maintain patients’ food intake. “Proper nutrition promotes healing and quicker recovery from illnesses,” said Shelly Hubbert, the Coordinator of Volunteer Resources for the Horizon Health Network. Since April 1 of this year, Horizon has seen a total of 863 patients; 74 per cent of these patients are eating 50 per cent more. The program has also seen 2,135 mealtime volunteer visits and 7,474
actions performed to help aid mealtime success. Cloey Nason is one of many Meal Mates volunteers. The 17-year-old started in Oct. 2024 as the program’s original volunteer. She has logged 68 hours, as of Dec. 2, 2025, volunteering and training nine new volunteers. “I had a group of friends that started volunteering in the Good Night program, and they said it was such a good commitment, just being able to go in and talk to people. So, I figured, okay, well, maybe this would be a good thing,” said Nason. Nason had ‘an itch’ to help after seeing Facebook ads for the program, and the only way to scratch it was to sign
up. Since starting at Meal Mates, Nason says she’s enjoyed seeing patients’ health improve, both physically and mentally. “Once you go in every week, and you see their progress and everything, you definitely notice a big change. With patient lists changing and everything, you can tell people that have gotten the help and the nourishment that they need are going to a better place,” said Nason. For most patients, having someone keep them company is enough to brighten their spirits. Nason says a lot of her patients like to be read to; it can help them get more food in and keep their minds off whatever is troubling them.
Hubbert says the program is not only very rewarding for patients but also for volunteers. “I find with this program, it’s very rewarding for the patients, as Cloey mentioned, just to have that person there with them and the companionship, and just to know that someone’s going to be there to assist them so that they can eat their food.” “But a lot of times the volunteers get more or just as much out of the program because of the benefits of what they’re doing, and it’s very rewarding for them,” said Hubbert. After graduating from high school, Nason plans to study Human Kinetics and Physiotherapy. However, her dedication and love for Meal Mates won’t
From left, Cloey Nason and another Meal Mates volunteer, Kristine Williams, working at the Upper River Valley Hospital. (Shelly Hubbert photo)
end when she heads to university. Nason says she plans to return and volunteer during her breaks. Nason says this program has been a rewarding process and encourages others to volunteer.
“If you’re interested in doing something and you have free time, honestly, volunteering is something that looks good on all resumes, and it’s really worth your time. So, if you can do it, reach out and do it,” said Nason.
4 DEC. 2025
URVH
Continued from page 1
sition as well as our booking clerk positions were eliminated,” said Goodine. “This means someone in Fredericton really makes all decisions regarding the dayto-day operations of the OR.” “The problem is overzealous administrator physicians from Fredericton,” he said. “They believe they have not only the right, but the moral obligation to impose changes on our Department of Surgery that THEY think are necessary.” When his internal inquiries didn’t produce meaningful results, Goodine took his concerns to WoodstockHartland MLA and provincial health critic Bill Hogan, who has since been working with local mayors to put pressure on Horizon Health. “They’ve lost most of their experienced surgical nurses because of the state of affairs there,” said Hogan. “Everything is being run out of Fredericton. We are losing local control. I don’t think this is the best model.” The MLA fears that if the URVH doesn’t maintain control and loses any medical services, there will be even more challenges with recruitment. “We have issues now. We lost a surgeon a year ago, and there have been no advertisements for that position. It feels like they are actively trying to reduce surgical capacity,” said Hogan. “Why else would you not advertise for a surgeon when we are missing one?” Goodine sees this as an issue of urban doctors trying to run a rural facility without understanding how their rural team operates. “They insist that any department as small as ours is, by its very nature, inefficient and, more importantly, unsustainable. We’ve done this for years. We
MRI
Continued from page 1
opening event to follow as well.” Estey said Horizon Health can’t say enough
know how things work best, but they don’t think we do.” Goodine and other medical staff are worried that Horizon Health will eventually turn the URVH into a glorified clinic, with day surgeries that don’t require overnight stays, and no surgeons on call, which threatens the ER and obstetrics. Other doctors, who don’t want to be named for fear of repercussions, say morale is at an all-time low, while frustration levels are at an all-time high. “Accordingly, our nurses and doctors who know what it takes to run a rural surgical service were ignored while urban administrators were given free rein to ‘improve the system,’” said Goodine. He added that the administrator’s efforts did little to improve anything. “These ‘so-called’ improvements have had a major destabilizing effect on our department of surgery. They basically pushed out a surgeon more than a year ago, and since then, there have been no recruitment efforts. Nothing has been posted to fill that position by Horizon. Dr. Singh Ranger is working alone, again, which is problematic,” said Goodine. After nearly two years of diplomacy with no results, Goodine said it was time to reach out to the media. At a recent staff meeting, he asked if anyone had any objections to his speaking to reporters. “Radio silence. No one objected. It’s safe to say I have the backing of our medical staff,” said Goodine. Dr. Lyndsay Lovely has been an anesthetist at the URVH since July 2021 and is currently the Chief of the Anesthesia Department. She turned down our request for an interview but sent a written statement. “The Operating Room at URVH has faced a multitude of
challenges over the past two years. What concerns me most is the unprecedented number of long-term, highly skilled nursing staff leaving the OR. The uncertainties surrounding the future of surgical services at URVH have created significant instability within our department, adversely affecting morale and confidence in leadership. The increased pressures on the remaining nursing staff, coupled with the elimination of many essential nursing, nursing leadership and clerical positions at URVH, have contributed to excessive workload and stress for our nurses. This is not sustainable.” Lovely went on to praise the staff she works with. “Nurses are the foundation of our OR. The viability of surgical, obstetric and anesthesia services at URVH are largely dependent on the immediate action to provide our remaining nurses the resources and support they need and deserve.” The River Valley Sun requested an interview with Horizon Health CEO Margaret Melanson. She was not made available, but we received a written response from Dr. Susan Brien, Senior Vice President, Medical, Academic, and Research Affairs. “Horizon remains committed to providing safe, high-quality care to patients in the Upper River Valley area. Like many other health care organizations across Canada, we continually evaluate our service delivery models to ensure we’re providing the best possible care with available resources while adapting to advances in medical practice.” She went on to explain that Horizon is examining ways to expand outpatient day-surgery models, and that any changes will be made “thoughtfully, with patient care and safety as our primary consideration.”
On Dec. 5, physicians who work out of Fredericton and Upper River Valley facilities received an email from Dr. Ash McLellan, Horizon’s Senior Medical Executive Director. The River Valley Sun obtained a copy. In his correspondence, Dr. McLellan said he wanted to provide “clarity on the status of surgical services at Upper River Valley Hospital (URVH),” noting staff may see the issue in the local media in the coming days, and he wanted to ensure his staff had “accurate information.” “Like all services across Horizon, we have a responsibility to continuously examine options that ensure safe, high-quality care for patients in the Upper River Valley area and reflect our staffing realities,” wrote McLellan. “Any potential changes regarding surgical services in the future would be made thoughtfully, with patient safety as our primary consideration, and in consultation with our clinical teams.” When asked about McLellan’s letter, Goodine let out a big sigh. “It’s corporate double-speak to hide the truth,” he said, adding that breaking his silence is a last-ditch effort to save the services at the Upper River Valley Hospital. “I want to educate the public, not so they forget about it, but so they make a choice and organize an effective opposition to these changes. I am asking the public to become engaged on this issue and do it now. Don’t wait for your neighbour to do it. Write letters to the premier, talk to your MLA, reach out to the (Horizon) board of directors, hold public rallies,” said Goodine. “Without that, it seems likely we’ll lose our hospital as an acute care facility. Our medical staff believe if these changes go through, this is what’s going to happen.”
about the URVH Foundation. “We’d like to sincerely thank the Upper River Valley Hospital Foundation for their generosity and support in making
this new suite a reality, while recognizing the efforts of our team on the ground who have been working diligently to keep this important project on schedule.”
URVH’s new MRI replaces a portable MRI the hospital shared with Campbellton, which performed about 1,400 scans per year at the Waterville facility.
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 news, feature stories, a variety of viewpoints, and information about local community events, minor sports, and municipal news that isn’t always covered by mainstream media. We believe a community is stronger when people know and understand their neighbours.” Editorial Policy: The River Valley Sun welcomes letters on subjects of interest to our readers and prints columns on a variety of topics. Use of any material is at the discretion of the editors, and we reserve the right to omit or edit letters to meet space requirements, for clarity, or to avoid libel or invasion of privacy. Letters and columns published do not necessarily reflect the editorial policies or beliefs of the newspaper. The River Valley Sun follows Canadian Press Style guidelines.
If you work with a service organization that offers help to people in need, please reach out and provide your contact information so we can continue to share the important information for people in distress or difficult situations. Email theresa@rivervalleysun.ca or call (506) 324-5700
IN CRISIS?
Here are the numbers to call: RCMP/Woodstock Police Upper River Valley Hospital Hôtel Dieu – Perth-Andover Woodstock Mental Health Perth-Andover Mental Health After Hours Mobile Crisis CHIMO Telecare Nackawic Health Centre Tobique Valley Comm. Health Kids Help Phone Dept. of Social Development
911 506-375-5900 506-273-7100 506-325-4419 506-273-4701 1-888-667-0444 1-800-667-5005 811 506-575-6600 506-356-6600 1-800-668-6868 1-833-733-7835
Law Enforcement
Woodstock Town Police: (506) 325-4601 RCMP, Woodstock area: (506) 325-3000 (For immediate help: 1-888-506-7267) RCMP Nackawic (Fredericton dispatch): (506) 357-4300 (For immediate help: 1-888-506-1472) Call 911 in an emergency! Crimestoppers: 1-800-222-8477
Animal Control
Woodstock Police (will dispatch help) 506-325-4601 York County Officer Randy Casey 506-459-7831 Rural Areas call the NBSPCA 1-877-722-1522
AFTER HOURS DOT: 1-833-384-4111
Help for DRUG ADDICTION Hope for Wellness Helpline 1-855-242-3310 Offering immediate help to Indigenous peoples across Canada. Available 24/7, it offers counselling and crisis intervention. Al-Anon Family Group Woodstock 506-328-6122 For friends and family of alcoholics, Wednesdays 7 to 8 p.m. at the Woodstock Baptist Church, 785 Main St., Woodstock. Woodstock Addictions and Mental Health 506-325-4419 Mon to Fri 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Perth-Andover Addictions & Mental Health 506-273-4701 Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Mental Health Mobile Crisis Unit 1-888-667-0444 - 7 days a week from 2 to 10 p.m. Inpatient Detoxification Services: access by self-referral only; all admissions are voluntary. The detoxification unit provides inpatient treatment for the withdrawal from mood-altering substances such as alcohol, cocaine, opiates and other drugs. Fredericton Detoxification Unit 506-452-5525 Located at 65 Brunswick St., Fredericton, NB. A 10-bed unit that provides medical support, education, and recovery planning for substance abuse and gambling. Phone 506-452-5525; accepts messages only, calls are returned to plan admissions Mon-Fri. Miramichi Detoxification Unit 506-623-6175 Located at 500 Water St., Miramichi. NB. Moncton Detoxification Unit 506-856-2333 Located at 81 Albert St., Moncton, NB. Ridgewood Addiction Services 506-674-4300 Located at 416 Bay St., South Bay, Saint John, NB provides a range of services for individuals, youth and family members affected by substance abuse and gambling. Other Residential rehabilitation facilities Ridgewood Centre (Saint John) 506-647-4300 Located at 416 Bay St., South Bay, Saint John, NB. Campbellton Regional Addiction Services 506-789-7055 Located at 53 Gallant Dr., Campbellton, NB. Rising Sun Treatment Centre (First Nations) 506-627-4626 Located at 31 Riverview Rd., Eel Ground, NB. Portage Atlantic 1-888-735-9800 Located at Cassidy Lake, NB, is a non-profit organization established in 1995, operates a residential drug addiction rehabilitation centre for Atlantic Canada youth (14-21) in New Brunswick. Early Recovery Group, Woodstock - each Wednesday (unless school is closed due to weather) from 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. at Bicentennial Boardroom (1st Floor), 200 King Street, Bicentennial Place, Woodstock, NB. Early Recovery Group, Perth-Andover - each Tuesday at 1 p.m. at the Mental Health and Addictions at 35F Tribe Rd., Perth-Andover, NB. Harvest House Woodstock MAMA Meetings (Mothers Against Meth Addiction) on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. This is a women-only group, providing a safe place for women struggling with family members whose lives are being destroyed by drug abuse. For more info, contact Natasha Smith at (506) 323-9315. Harvest House also offers other recovery programs. For more information, contact them at (506) 594-5000.
*IN AN EMERGENCY, CALL 911
River Valley Sun: Box 1000, Woodstock, NB, E7M 0E9, (506) 325-2552 Local Journalism Initiative Reporter: Paige Morgan, (506) 612-1519, paige@rivervalleysun.ca Publisher/Managing Editor: Theresa Blackburn, (506) 324-5700, theresa@rivervalleysun.ca Publisher/Distribution Manager: Stephen Chisholm (506) 324-5711 www.rivervalleysun.ca ISSN # 2562-3893 *Unauthorized bulk removal of the River Valley Sun from any public location, or tampering with our distribution, including unauthorized inserts, is prohibited. The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the Government of Canada. We acknowledge the [financial] support of the Government of Canada.
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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 5
Woodstock unveils 2026 budget
Ward 4 (old town boundaries) only area not getting property tax increase
By Erin Seifarth – LJI Reporter
T
he 2026 budget for the municipality of Woodstock was unveiled on Nov. 25 by Town of Woodstock Director of Finance and Treasurer Jennifer Crabbe. In it, she revealed that the Ward 4 (old town boundaries) property tax rate will remain the same, but all other wards will increase by 2 cents. Crabbe explained that in the wards where the rate has increased, a residential property valued at $327,600 will have to pay an additional $65.52 on its property tax bill, and a business assessed at that amount would pay an extra $111 in property tax. “The two-cent increase was deemed necessary to cover the increase in the RCMP costs towards (Wards) 1, 2, 3 and 5 as well as the increase in the solid waste collection,” Crabbe told the council. Property taxes heavily fund municipal budgets. In Woodstock’s case, 75 per cent of the 2026 budget of $21 million (an increase of nearly $3 million from 2025) will come from property taxes. The rest of their operating funds will come from the policing realignment funds, as well as revenues from services and Fiscal Capacity funding. Crabbe went on to explain that the province’s Fiscal Capacity Funds increased from $659,000 to just under $1.3 million. AYR Motor Centre revenue went from $1.3 million to just under $1.4 million.
All other revenue sources increased from $701,000 to $2.4 million, primarily due to $1.6 million in police realignment funding, intended to offset the impacts of policing growth as the municipality prepares to use town police in all wards. Once the realignment funding is subtracted, the actual increase in revenue sources was approximately $100,000. Expenses have also risen. Under general government, the budget, which includes salaries, benefits, municipal buildings, and the general operation of the municipality, was increased by over half a million dollars, topping out at $2.58 million for 2026. Crabbe said most of that increase was due to the additional staffing and wage increases for the existing staff. Community Grants will go from $150,000 to $250,000. Policing in Ward 4 increased $1.3 million from last year, bringing the total to $5.5 million. RCMP costs for Wards 1, 2, 3, and 5 increased by $32,000, bringing the total to $1.65 million. The fire department will increase its budget by $63,000, bringing its total to $1.1 million. Crabbe said other protective services will see an increase of $50,000, bringing their total to $260,000. Transportation will increase by $36,000, bringing their total for 2026 to $2.2 million.
Waste collection and disposal costs will increase by $137,000, bringing the total to $1.2 million in 2026. Crabbe attributed the majority of that increase to a more frequent pickup schedule, starting in July. Economic Development and Tourism’s expenses have decreased for 2026. Crabbe also explained that some of the money that usually would have been in this category had been moved to general government. Crabbe also said the decrease was the result of the municipality’s decision to use the Regional Service Commission for planning and development and to eliminate the town’s Director of Planning and Development, previously held by Andrew Garnett. Garnett, who has held multiple positions with the town, including CAO, received his layoff notice at the end of October. The Recreation, Culture, and Community Services budget increased by $460,000, to just over $4 million. Most of that increase is due to additional staffing, wage increases, electricity, repairs, maintenance and supplies. There was also a decrease in principal interest and bank charges by $35,000, to $526,000. Next year, their general operating capital and police realignment capital will be $1.2 million. The Municipalities Utility Budget saw a slight increase in water and sewer revenues of
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$126,000, bringing total revenues for 2026 up by seven per cent to $2.3 million. Water and sewer expenses decreased by just under $90,000 each. Fiscal Service Interest for utilities is now $64,000, which is a slight decrease of $482. The Utility capital budget increased to $348,000, with a $77,000 deficit carried over from 2024. After Crabbe’s budget overview, Mayor Trina Jones noted that when budget discussions began, they expected to need to increase property taxes by at least three cents. In the end, they decided to pull some interest out of their realignment funds to save a penny in the affected wards. “I think it’s worth acknowledging that we heard from the counsellors in the outside
wards,” Jones said, “We understand the challenges and difficulties in the rate increase.” Jones expressed excitement when listing off some of the places money would be going to in the coming year. The town budgeted $900,000 for paving and designated highway projects, as well as other street and sidewalk upgrades. A total of $300,000 will be allotted to replace some public works equipment. The AYR Motor Centre will be getting some facility upgrades, including improvements to field house lighting, washroom upgrades, replacement of the arena dehumidifier, and possibly upgrades to baseball fields and the outdoor volleyball field. Connell Park and the downtown area are expected to receive
some enhancements as well, once their revitalization studies are completed. Potential upgrades to Toughbook tablets in police vehicles and new portable radios are coming. The town is also looking to get portable bleachers and event fencing for community and townsponsored events. The municipality also intends to get better audio and visual equipment for council meetings. Many councillors expressed their appreciation to Jennifer Crabbe for her hard work. “I hate to see an increase at all,” said Councillor Mike Martin, “but I can justify it when you can see the level of service increase. So, that’s my two cents on the two cents!” Councillors around the table echoed his sentiment.
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Question remains on definition of ‘light industry’
Woodstock Council provides update on Covered Bridge Chips issues
By Erin Seifarth – LJI Reporter
B
efore the latest Woodstock Town Council meeting, Gordon Porter, a concerned resident and member of the group “Our Town, Our Voice,” sent an email to council members and the River Valley Sun. The group of concerned residents formed a committee after the Covered Bridge Potato Chips plant began operating in the Woodstock Industrial Park, disrupting the lives of residents who live in the neighbouring subdivision. In his email, Porter reiterated the community members’ dissatisfaction with how their concerns about the potato chip manufacturing operation have been handled to date, citing the location as the primary issue. “Residents also note that the Municipal Plan designates light manufacturing for the current industrial zone,” Porter wrote. “The plant’s scale and intensity exceed that definition and are inappropriate beside long-standing residential streets.” He expressed frustration with the amount of responsibility that town officials have placed on the Province regarding regulations. He urged the municipality to take greater responsibility for fixing this itself. “The Town of Woodstock has both the authority and the obligation to act now,” explained Porter. During the Nov. 25
council meeting, CAO Allan Walker gave an update on Covered Bridge Chips’ operation. So far, he said, the propane pad has been moved outside of the buffer zone. Jersey bars have been placed to mark out the buffer zone and prevent traffic incursions. Walker also revealed that he’d received a fence design from the engineering firm late that day but hadn’t yet had time to go through it, adding that evergreens were hoped to be planted this year, but weren’t sourced in time and will be planted in the spring. He mentioned that Covered Bridge had reached out to two representatives of Our Town, Our Voice and intended to have further dialogue with them in the future. Walker then addressed the complaint that Covered Bridge Chips did not meet the light-industry standard. For his definition, he quoted the International Energy Agency. This agency classifies light industry as industrial activity that typically requires less energy to operate, such as food processing, textiles, consumer goods, and vehicles. Walker explained that, according to this agency’s definition, Covered Bridge was, in fact, classified as light manufacturing. “I need to clarify that this is a mistaken assertion,” said Walker in response to the argument that Covered Bridge Chips is not light industry.
“Food processing is consistently classed as light industry.” The International Energy Agency is based in Paris, France. It has 32 member countries, including Canada. The organization’s focus is on energy security and offers policy recommendations based on that priority. When they define light industry, their focus is more about energy use than on how good a neighbour companies are. Closer to home, the New Brunswick provincial government defines it based on each municipality’s zoning laws. For example, Saint Andrews Special Advisory Planning Committee defines ‘Light Industrial Use’ as the use of “land, buildings, or structures for the making of finished products or parts, usually from already prepared materials, including the processing, fabrication, assembly, treatment, packaging, storing, sales, and distribution of such products or parts, but excluding conventional industrial uses, and not resulting in the emission of odours, fumes, noise, cinder vibrations, heat, glare, or electrical interference.” Fredericton’s Bylaw No. Z-05 defines light industry as “a use engaged in the manufacturing of a finished product, predominantly from previously prepared materials and may include secondary uses such as storage, packaging and sales.” Fredericton’s clarifies
heavy manufacturing as “a use engaged in the basic processing and manufacturing of materials or products, predominantly from extracted or raw materials or manufacturing processes that potentially involve an obnoxious emission of odour, smoke, dust, soot, dirt, noise, gas fumes, vibration, water-carried waste, or other obnoxious emission or refuse and may include secondary uses such as storage, packaging and sales.” According to Woodstock’s own zoning bylaw documents NO Z-501, dated Feb. 2024 their definition says “a building or structure in which com-
ponent parts are manufactured, assembled, processed or repaired to produce a finished product that can be sold onsite but does not include an industry involving stamping presses, furnaces or other machinery that emits dirt, dust or noxious fumes into the air or that results in noise or vibration beyond the property.” Under provincial guidelines, municipal bylaws, not an international organization like the one Walker quoted, determine what constitutes light industry in this area. At the end of the CAO’s Covered Bridge Chips update, council members agreed they
needed to create an ad hoc development committee to prevent future development conflicts. “We’ve certainly had some of our bylaws called into question through conversations with community members in relation to the Covered Bridge Chips,” said Mayor Trina Jones. Councillors discussed the need to review and revise some bylaws, particularly those related to subdivisions, buffer zones, and noise. If readers want to see the bylaws we referenced in this story, you can visit the links attached to this story on our website, rivervalleysun.ca.
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District of Carleton North Council news
RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 7
Student councillors sworn in, new waste collection schedule, school update
By Sandra Hanson – LJI Reporter New student councillors During the Nov. 25 District of Carleton North (DCN) Council meeting, Deputy Mayor Karen Hargrove was appointed to oversee the swearing-in of the two newest members of their student councillor program. Sarah Harvey and Orrin Stockford will join the council this year, marking Harvey’s third term in the position. The program, inaugurated in 2022, was established to “bring a student perspective to municipal discussions and decisions,” help develop leadership skills and an awareness of the democratic process, and “encourage responsible citizenship.” “I would just like to thank the council for giving me this opportunity at such a young age,” said Stockford. “I think this
is a very impactful position, and I will represent my school to the best of my abilities and will try to make a difference in my community.” DCN agrees to new 2026 collection schedule Mayor Andrew Harvey advised the council about the Western Valley Regional Service Commission’s proposed revised collection schedule, which would include weekly garbage pickup and biweekly recycling pickup. The new schedule is expected to start in the summer. “It’s a bigger step with an extra cost,” said Mayor Harvey, “but it’s also a better service.” Harvey said one of the main complaints they receive is that garbage is only picked up three times a month, with recycling on the off week, which
becomes especially problematic in the summer months. “We think weekly pick up will be better for our residents,” said Harvey. Councillor Laurel Bradstreet expressed concerns about the extra cost. “With this comes a bill of $104,000. It’s a lot of money for 12 extra pickups a year. With the property freezes going on, budgets need to be cut.” Councillor Scott Oakes suggested that increased recycling pickup could help reduce costs. “If [they] start coming to pick it up twice a month, we’re going to divert more recyclable materials that are currently going to the landfill, which should reduce our tonnage and reduce our fees.” He also suggested that better public education could increase the number of items residents recycle,
further reducing costs. “[In the] short term, I think this is the way to go,” said Mayor Harvey. However, he noted that, when the contract is up for renewal in 2027, alternative garbage collection options should be considered. “We have over 1400 square kilometers squared to cover, which increases our cost for collection,” stressing that all options for better efficiency need to be looked into. Council passed the motion to adopt the new collection schedule, effective July 2026. Negative votes were received from Councillors Laurel Bradstreet and Ryan Dickinson. Update on K-8 school The proposed K-8 school for Florenceville-Bristol announced by the province in 2023 was discussed at
Carleton North High School students Sarah Harvey and Orrin Stockford were sworn in on Nov. 25, as part of the District of Carleton North Student Councillor program. The students are with Deputy Mayor Karen Hargrove and Mayor Andrew Harvey. (Submitted photo)
the council. “This has been talked about the last couple of years,” said Mayor Harvey. “We were asked to look at zoning and extending the sewer system.” He noted that the necessary information had been provided to the provincial government; however, they haven’t yet decided on a site.
“We believe there should be a school in Florenceville-Bristol. It’s been long talked about and it would be good for our students and staff to have that consolidation of kids into one brand new school. So hopefully the government will come to the table at some point and put it in their capital budget,” said Harvey.
Recognizing Transgender Day of Remembrance
The Rainbow Crosswalk gathers members, allies for support rally Nov. 20 By Kathryn Chisholm
M
embers of the transgender community and their allies came out in support of Woodstock’s first Transgender Day of Remembrance. More than two dozen people walked from the downtown square to NBCC Woodstock and then back across the
river to the Woodstock Farm Market to show support for members of the transgender community. The event happened during Trans Awareness Week. Each year, this week honours the memory of transgender people whose lives were lost be-
cause of anti-transgender violence. After the march, many stuck around and chatted, connecting with members of the community. For more information on how you can support the transgender community, visit therainbowcrosswalk.com.
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Some of the people who took part in a rally recognizing the Transgender Day of Remembrance in Woodstock on Nov. 20. (Kathryn Chisholm photo)
8 DEC. 2025
’ TAKONUTOMAKONUWAL
(Maliseet word meaning ‘their stories’)
Indigenous News and Features Sponsored by Wotstak (Woodstock) First Nation
First Nations could win ownership stake in ‘nation-building’ mine
Company developing Sisson sweetening pot by offering equity in operation By John Chilibeck – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Daily Gleaner
T
he company that wants to develop the “nation-building” Sisson mine in central New Brunswick is sweetening the pot from the original deal by offering First Nations an ownership stake in the project, says the province’s Indigenous Affairs minister. Keith Chiasson told reporters at the legislature recently that the original 2017 deal between the provincial government and the six Indigenous communities dotting the St. John River and its tributaries was mostly about royalties, years before the Wolastoqey filed a massive title claim for more than half of New Brunswick, including the Sisson Brook area about 100 kilometres northwest of Fredericton. Northcliff Resources, based out of Vancouver, has considered offering a more lucrative equity stake, the minister said. “We did have a chance talk with the proponent, and there is an openness to kind of modernize the accommodation piece,” Chiasson said. “Obviously, when it was negotiated, you know, 2015, equity kind of wasn’t part of the mix. It was more about royalties. So, there is an openness to offer them
that.” Northcliff Resources did not immediately reply to Brunswick News for comment. On Nov. 13, Prime Minister Mark Carney identified Sisson as one of several projects that could be nation builders. His support for the project could make it easier for Northcliff to secure investors because they’ll know it has the support of the federal government. While the six chiefs signed on eight years ago, some weren’t completely comfortable with the arrangement, and several of their community members protested the decision. For a few years, Wolastoqey grandmothers and other members set up a protest encampment in the proposed mining area, where the critical minerals tungsten and molybdenum would be dug up and processed onsite, leaving behind toxic tailings in a big, deep, man-made pond, protected by a massive earthen dam, bigger than Mactaquac’s, near the headwaters of the pristine Nashwaak River that flows toward Fredericton. A mother and son from Woodstock First Nation, the closest of
the communities to the site, caused workers to flee an area where the company wanted to do preparatory work until a court injunction stopped the protesters in 2023. Chiasson said it was up to Northcliff to ease the concerns of those community members. The chiefs themselves, he said, want assurances that the 40 stipulations laid out for the company in the environmental impact assessment are met. “We’ve been very clear as a government that there needs to be an openness and transparency on the steps that need to be taken in order to move the project forward,” the minister said, putting the onus on Northcliff CEO Andrew Ing, who has already met with Premier
Susan Holt in recent months. “He’s got to lay out a plan on how he plans to communicate with the community, grandmothers and things like that, so we’re kind of waiting to see that, and then hopefully he kind of, you know, goes through with it.” One of the conditions in the environmental impact assessment in 2015 stated that the mine’s operation had to be started within five years. Instead, the Progressive Conservative government of Blaine Higgs extended that deadline another five years in 2020. Earlier this month, Gilles LePage, the Liberal government’s minister of environment, extended it again. He told reporters it takes effect
Dec. 3 and is good until 2030. He also mentioned that of the 40 conditions, Northcliff still had to fulfill 28 of them before construction starts. David Coon, the leader of the small opposition Green Party, opposes the construction of the mine unless Northcliff agrees to dry stack tailings instead of creating a toxic pond. He argued the extension should never have been granted. “The company was supposed to produce some modelling on worst-case scenario, what would a dam break at the tailings pond do to the Nashwaak watershed, and that’s not been provided, that’s not been completed and made public, and that is one of the biggest is-
Mits / Eat
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sues that people have with this project.” Coon believes the environmental impact assessment should start again from square one, even if the prime minister identified Sisson as a nation-building project, a move that could give confidence to investors in a mine that would create 500 construction jobs and 300 full-time long term jobs in a part of the province where economic prospects are slim. “There have been changes over the last 10 years in terms of best available practices and best available technologies for this kind of open pit mining operation with a low grade of ore,” Coon said. “And the climate has changed. That has to be considered.”
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SUNNY-SIDE UP
Providing Readers with a Challenge, a Chuckle, Facts, and a Smile
Did you KNOW?
MENTAL HEALTH
• As of 2022, more than 5 million people in Canada met the diagnostic criteria for mood, anxiety, or substance use disorders. • During the COVID-19 pandemic, the proportion of adults who reported excellent or very good mental health and a high level of life satisfaction decreased. • Data in 2022 found that compared with their cisgender, heterosexual peers, 2SLGBTQ+ youth aged 15 to 24 are at higher risk for mental health disorders and thoughts of suicide.
RVS TONGUE TWISTER Imagine an imaginary menagerie manager managing an imaginary menagerie
DAD JOKES What kind of ball doesn’t bounce? A snowball!
What do snowmen eat for lunch? Iceburg-ers!
CARLETON COUNTY
Colloquialisms
By John Morris
ACCEPTANCE EMOTIONS BOUNDARIES
TRAUMA REGULATION PANIC
THERAPY DEPRESSION MOOD
PTSD COUNSELLING HELP
ACTIVITIES FOR EVERYONE!
Senior’s Christmas Social and Turkey Dinner
Date: Tuesday, Dec. 16 Time: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Location: AYR Motor Centre Field House Cost: $20 pp - get tickets before Dec.9 LIVE ENTERTAINMENT featuring DEANE ANTWORTH AND MARK PALMER
Coffee & Christmas Carol E Sing-Along FRE
GLOW SKATE WITH SANTA & DJ WILLIE T Saturday, Dec. 13 from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Youth Holiday Art Workshop For ages 6 years and up Monday, Dec. 29 from 1:30 to 3:30 Cost is $35 per person and includes all materials needed. MUST register in advance at amcreception@ woodstocknb.ca or call (506) 325-4302
NEW YEAR’S EVE FAMILY PARTY Join us Wednesday, Dec 31 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the AYR Motor Centre for swimming, skating, Galaxy Bounce inflatables, a balloonist, face painting, fireworks and more!
TIM HORTONS WELLNESS CENTRE
55+ Dance
WELLNESS & MEMBERSHIP PASS SPECIALS
Available now until Dec. 21 at noon.
Wednesday, Dec. 17 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall. Admission: $10
Enjoy the movie, ‘A Christmas Story’ (1982) at Atlantic Cinemas at 2 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 22 Admission: $10 - which includes a drink and popcorn
It’s a great Christmas gift idea! Ask us for details! All programs happening at the AYR Motor Centre. Schedules subject to change. For more info, please scan the barcodes below or call 506-325-4302!
Watch for our Christmas break holiday schedule including public skates & swims. You can follow us on Facebook at Woodstock Recreation!
AYR Motor Centre
Hear this word pronounced at www.dooryard.ca.
GET OUT AND ENJOY WINTER!
Friday, Dec. 12 at 2 p.m. in Sam’s Room at the AYR Motor Centre Join us for refreshments & join us for a festive time with friends!
Afternoon at the Movies
craylon \’kray-lawn\ noun - Crayon, i.e., a stick of coloured wax wrapped in paper and commonly used by children for writing or drawing; “Jeepers, I just got them for Christmas, and all my craylons are broke already!”
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Visit our showroom at 323 Connell Street, Woodstock. Visit us online at www.connellchryslerdealer.com or follow us on Facebook! (506) 328-9243
10 DEC. 2025
NEIGHBOURHOOD NEWS
Information, Events, and Updates from Your Towns, Districts, and Rural Communities
Southern Victoria VGM Without Walls Chair Yoga Every Wednesday, starting at 10:30 a.m. at the Victoria Glen Manor, there will be chair yoga. You must be registered to attend. To sign up, call (506) 273-0203. AA Meetings Every Wednesday and Friday at 7:30 p.m., AA meetings will be held at the St. Mary of the Angels Parish Hall.
Carleton North Christmas Bake Sale There will be a bake sale from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Second Chance thrift store at DunRoamin’, 55 Allison Road, Riverbank, on Saturday, Dec. 13. Cash only. Senior Social Every Wednesday from 1 to 4 p.m., at the R.G. “Bun” Veysey Active Living Centre, seniors can enjoy an afternoon of fun games and socialize with light snacks. The admission fee is $3. Contact the Recreation Department for more details at 392-6763 ext. 220. Turkey Tip-Off During the Carleton North and Woodstock double header basketball game on Tuesday, Dec. 16, at the Carleton North High School Gym, there will be a Turkey TipOff. Support the teams and support local families by donating a turkey. If you are interested in giving or would like to learn more, call 506-392-6763, ext. 209. Holiday Hours The R.G. “Bun” Veysey Active Living Centre will be closed Dec. 25, 26, and Jan. 1. The Town office will be closed Dec. 24 at noon and on Jan 1. Snow Blast 2026 Be sure to save your cardboard boxes and start building a sled for the Annual Cardboard Classic Sled Race. The event will take place in February. Follow the District of Carleton North website or social media pages to keep up with the updates. Babysitting Course On Friday, Jan. 16, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Florenceville-Bristol Community Hall, there will be a babysitting course for ages 11 and up. The registration fee is $55. Cheryl Crain will be instructing the course. Visit the District of Carleton North Recreation Facebook page to register. Millie’s Tea Room Breakfast Every Saturday, pop into the Juniper Community Centre from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. for a hearty, delicious breakfast of your choice from the variety of options from Millie’s Tea Room. Check out the Juniper Community Centre Facebook page for the full menu. Winter 2026 Learn To Skate From Jan. 7 to Feb. 25, you can learn to skate in an 8-week program every Wednesday, instructed by Ted Deweyert. There are two session times, 4 to 4:45 p.m. and 4:45 to 5:30 p.m. The cost
is $65, and you must be 3 years old or older. A helmet and a pair of skates are required to participate. For more information, contact recreation@careltonnorth. com or call (506) 392-6763 Ext. 220. Visit the District of Carleton North Recreation Facebook page to register. Winter 2026 Power Skating From Jan. 9 to Feb. 27. This is an eightweek program every Friday, instructed by Ted Deweyert. The two session times are from 4:15 to 5:15 p.m. and 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Cost is $85; must be able to skate the full length of the ice and start/stop. For more information, contact recreation@ careltonnorth.com or call (506) 392-6763 Ext. 220. Visit the District of Carleton North Recreation Facebook page to register.
Hartland Santa Skate On Friday, Dec. 12, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., invite your friends and family to the free Santa Skate at the Day & Ross Community Centre. This is a great way to blend physical activity and holiday fun. Santa at the Farm The Parlour at 30 Estey Road in Waterville is welcoming Santa to the farm on Sunday, Dec. 14, from 1 to 3 p.m. It’s the perfect chance to bundle up the kids for a cheerful visit to the barn.
Woodstock Town Legacy Series Christmas Carols and Coffee will be on Friday, Dec. 12, at 2 p.m., at the AYR Motor Centre in Sam’s room. This event is free of charge. The 55-plus dance is on Wednesday, Dec. 17, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall. Admission is $10. Afternoon at the Movies is Monday, Dec. 22, at 2 p.m., at Atlantic Cinemas. Cost is $7, popcorn and drinks are included. Northampton Breakfast The monthly Northampton Breakfast will be on Saturday, Jan. 3, from 7 to 10 a.m. Cost is $14 for adults, $7 for children ages six to 7, and free for children five and under.
Lakeland Ridges Meet Santa Santa is coming to town! On Dec. 14 from 12:30 to 2 p.m., at the Debec Fire Department, there will be an afternoon of holiday cheer. There will be snacks, crafts, hot chocolate, and more. Santa will arrive at 1:15 p.m. New Year’s Public Skate and Christmas Tree bonfire On Saturday, Jan. 3, starting at 2 p.m., there will be a public skate at the Debec Community Centre for families. Enjoy an afternoon of activity PLUS there will be FREE hot dogs, FREE hot chocolate, and outdoor music. Following the skate, there will be a tree bonfire at 5 p.m. Christmas trees can be dropped off between 10 and 11 a.m.
Nackawic-Millville
Municipality of Woodstock
nackawic-millville.com
www.town.woodstock.nb.ca
(506) 575-2241
(506) 325-4600
Nackawic-Millville
Man seeking female companionship
Christmas Home Decorating Contest Enter your photo of your home or someone else’s with Christmas decor. Email your entry to office@nackawic-millville. com before Friday, Dec. 19. The winners will be announced on Monday, Dec. 22. There are prizes for first, second, and third place.
I am a hard working separated 58-year-old man looking for female companionship. I am looking for someone to go out on a date with, eat a meal with, go for a walk or the movies with, and go out to a dance once in a while,
Park closed Please be advised that the H.C. Greenlaw Memorial Park building is now closed for the season. Cribbage Every Friday from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., there will be Cribbage set up at the Southampton Community Hall. Coffee at the Library Pop into the Nackawic Public Library on Fridays from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. for coffee hour. Enjoy your coffee while exploring the library’s new offerings and escaping with a good book.
Female companion should be between the ages of 52 and 62 and live in the Upper River Valley.
Storytime Every Wednesday, preschoolers are invited to join Minna for stories, songs, games and crafts at the Nackawic Public Library from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Call or text (506) 324-0011
12 Days of Christmas Raffle The Southampton Hall volunteers are offering a raffle. Draws will be made each day from Dec. 1 – 12. Early Bird draw will be on Nov. 30. Tickets are $5 each or 3 for $10. For tickets, please call Chris (506) 999-0157, or Pam at (705) 8689768, or Ruth at (519) 322-2083, or Terry at (506) 325-8245. Please support your community hall! Are you putting your returnables in your curbside recycling bin?
Donate your returnables to local Breakfast Programs at VAIL’S BOTTLE EXCHANGE IN WOODSTOCK!
Your Health is Our Priority Convenient DRIVE-THRU
Prescriptions and Custom Compounding Vaccinations and Wellness Consults 100 Jones Drive, Woodstock (506) 325-5550
Shoppers Drug Mart
Vail’s will donate the proceeds to local breakfast programs! Just tell them where you want your returnables refund to go!
Online Prescription Refills, Expanded Health Care Products, Luxury Beauty Products, Wardrobe Accessories, Fragrances, Fresh and Frozen Grocery Items, Household Products, Cleaning Supplies, and PC Optimum Points! 370 Connell Street Woodstock 328-8801
Newnham & Slipp Pharmacy
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Lakeland Ridges
(506) 375-4357 town.hartland.nb.ca
(506) 279-6248 lakelandridges.ca
(506) 392-6763
www.carletonnorth.com
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Wishing You A Safe and Delightful! Holiday Season
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12 DEC. 2025
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RVS SUNSHINE KIDS Ana (6), Lenier (10), and Liz (15) are originally from Cuba and have been living in Woodstock for two years. They are happily adapting to their new life. Ana loves to dance, Lenier is passionate about soccer, and Liz enjoys being part of the cadets. Their family feels welcomed and fully integrated into the community. To submit your Sunshine Kid, please email a photo and a bio to the email below.
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Letter to the Editor Christmas: A stark lesson on Bethlehem and beyond
I
t could affect one’s Christmas spirit if one should pause to consider what is really happening in Bethlehem these days. I know we like to stay both cheery and busy this time of year. However, the evidence is overwhelming that this city of Bethlehem in the West Bank of Palestine experiences strict ‘movement restrictions’ imposed by the Israeli Defence Forces. There is a surge in violence primarily originating from Israeli military forces and Israeli settlers. Public celebrations having to do with Christmas have been cancelled in both 2023 and 2024 as an expression of solidarity with the people in Gaza. This area, dependent upon tourism, has experienced an economic collapse. And the emotional mood is inescapably one of depression, anger, and grief.
Can we in Canada, in New Brunswick, in Woodstock, get away with avoiding giving some thought to this situation? Many who have worked for the UN in Palestine no longer hesitate to call this situation one of unprecedented and deliberate destruction of a people … namely a genocide. My attention was first drawn to this situation because of the constant mainstream media reporting of a grossly disproportionate Israeli military response to the violent actions of Hamas on Oct. 7, 2023. And there are still serious questions that have yet to be answered by an independent, objective investigation into what actually happened on Oct. 7 and why. In the meantime, Canada and much of the West are seen to be complicit in what is now recognized
by many as a genocide by way of ongoing supplies of weaponry to Israel. There is a motion/bill before the Canadian federal parliament that seeks to stop this continued flow of weapons to Israel. Many of us consider extra charitable giving at this time of the year. There have even been in the past solicitations for the ‘Holy Land’. Let me suggest that this year, one might want to find out more about this situation in Palestine and Gaza. Such inquiry must go way beyond mainstream media coverage. It will lead to awareness that this situation has far-reaching and deep implications for our entire world. It will take us far beyond charity into an analysis of justice. We will encounter the question and issue of solidarity with indigenous Palestinians now suffering under
a genocide, and we very likely will have a new and surprising Christmas light shone upon our relations with indigenous peoples in New Brunswick and Canada. Wishing you all a ‘good’ and ‘honest’ Christmas, if not always a merry one. - Hugh Williams Debec, NB
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Town of Hartland passes $4.47 million budget
Assessment freeze, increased costs mean small tax increase for residents
By Theresa Blackburn
W
ith less tax funds due to a provincial assessment freeze, coupled with increased costs to complete the Day & Ross Community Centre and the high cost of policing, Hartland is feeling squeezed. Despite the challenges, Hartland is holding the line on spending to ensure residents get the services they need in 2026. Treasurer Tina Pelkey presented the municipality’s budget on Nov. 12, explaining what each department is facing. The town has allocated $1.5 million for infrastructure, including money for roads, bridges, water and sewer upgrades, and facility maintenance.
The town’s Fire Services Budget increased to $600,000, which includes $400,000 for a new fire truck. The Operations Budget for Recreation and Community Services was increased to cover higher operating costs at the Day & Ross Community Centre, as well as additional funding for events and trails. Administration and other services round out the budget at $870,000, and the RCMP policing contract comes in at $1 million. Treasurer Pelkey said the town’s expenses increased by $284,200. Most of that came from rising costs in policing, development grants, and
solid waste collection. Pelkey said departments were able to offset that with some cuts, including reducing capital expenditures by $16,000, reducing reserve transfers by $12,000, a drop in $8,000 in Regional Service Commission costs, and a few other administrative changes which saved them $13,000. Tax valuation gave them $89,000, and they increased non-tax revenues, like fine increases, user cost increases at the Day & Ross Centre, which whittled the shortfall to $41,500. “After much deliberation,” said Pelkey, “it was decided by council that we would look at a small tax
Hartland’s mayor and councillors voted to accept the town’s $4.47 municipal budget, which includes a one-cent increase in property tax. (YouTube screenshot)
increase.” Every community in the Hartland municipality will get a one-cent increase on their property tax for 2026. “That means Hartland
moves to a residential tax rate of $1.55, and all other LSDs will now be at 74 cents, while Peel remains at 70 cents. “Out of the dollars that we had in increased ex-
penses, there’s no more room to cut anymore expenses,” said Pelkey. “When you are playing with very little numbers, you don’t have a lot of movement.”
Nackawic-Millville hopes to benefit from Sisson mine Nation-building project discussed at Nov. meeting
By Karen Howell – LJI Reporter
D
uring the Nov. 17 meeting of the Nackawic-Millville Council, Deputy Mayor Greg MacFarlane proposed a motion to contact project partners and other levels of government after Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that the New Brunswick Sisson Mine was chosen as one of Canada’s nationbuilding projects. The proposed tungsten and molybdenum mine, to be developed by Northcliff Resources, will be located 50 km from the municipality. Nackawic-Millville’s council wants to capitalize on the project. MacFarlane wants the council to write letters to proponents, inviting them to meet, so the municipality can offer support and showcase the community’s assets. “We welcome working with them on housing employees in our community. They will need places to house people,” said MacFar-
lane. It is estimated that the project will require 500 jobs to build the mine and 300 full-time jobs to operate it for an estimated 27 years. “This is a huge opportunity to get out in front of. We could be the hub for Sisson. We could house folks who are going to work there. This includes the Millville ward as well,” stated MacFarlane. He pointed out the community’s proximity to the highway as another selling factor. Council agreed unanimously that this is an opportunity to get behind and go after. MacFarlane also proposed that the council reach out to AV Nackawic, which owns land in the industrial park, to see whether it would be interested in selling the land to the municipality. “It is critical that we have an industrial park where people can build their companies that
support the mine,” said MacFarlane. Council agreed unanimously. Proposal to rename Nackawic Walking Trail Council reviewed a letter from Nackawic resident Steve McCutcheon, who proposed renaming the Nackawic Walking Trail to the Cronkhite Walking Trail. “In recognition of the fact that all of the land upon which the Nackawic Walking Trail is located was once owned by members of the Cronkhite family, I would like to suggest that council consider renaming the trail to the Cronkhite Walking Trail,” wrote McCutcheon. As you walk along the trail, you come to two potato houses that bear signs with the Cronkhite name. The letter stated that the land on which Nackawic is built originally belonged to the Cronkhite family.
“In short, I think it would be appropriate for the town to honour the family by assigning the Cronkhite name to the walking trail,” concluded McCutcheon. The letter also suggested that council consider establishing a charitable foundation to fund the maintenance of this walking trail. McCutcheon said he walks the trail frequently and knows that maintaining signage, boardwalks, and tree clearing is always required. He feels that it would be good to have dedicated funds for this purpose. Mayor Tim Fox said the council’s role would be to help guide the process and have a councillor sit on the board as a director. Council agreed to pass the information on to the Recreation Committee so they could give their input. Community Hall ceiling replacement Council approved
a motion to repair the ceiling at the Bear Island Community Hall. The work includes: removal of ceiling tiles from the main hall; supplying and installing a plastic vapour barrier to the entire ceiling with acoustic sealant; installing a new T-Bar drop
ceiling in the kitchen; installing a new T-Bar drop ceiling in two bathrooms, the hall, and the entry; and removal and disposal of all debris. The work will be completed by On the Bend Contracting Ltd. at a total cost of $22,507.63.
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Celebrating the season
RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 17
Potato barrel tree lit at annual event
By Sandra Hanson – LJI Reporter
T
he “French Fry Capital of the World” gathered on Friday, Nov. 28, to celebrate the start of the holiday season with the lighting of their iconic potato barrel Christmas tree. District of Carleton North Mayor Andrew Harvey welcomed the guests by wishing them a
“Merry Christmas and all the best” during this holiday season. Pastor Mike Palmer offered a seasonal blessing. Cookies and hot chocolate were served by youth from the True North Baptist Church youth group, and donations were accepted for the We’ve Got Your Back!
Program. Sparrow Houghton and Iris Lloyd led the crowd in Christmas carols while waiting for Santa to make his appearance. Due to the lack of snow, Santa was graciously escorted to the celebration by the Florenceville-Bristol Fire Department.
(Sandra Hanson photo)
Johnny and Waylon Oakes enjoy some sweet treats at the 2025 Florenceville-Bristol Christmas celebration. (Sandra Hanson photo)
Sparrow Houghton and Iris Lloyd led guests in the singing of Christmas carols to help kick off the holiday season. (Sandra Hanson photo)
Thank you for your patronage this year. We appreciate you and look forward to serving you in 2026.
18 DEC. 2025
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Centreville kicks off holiday season People turn out for tree lighting, Santa’s visit
By Sandra Hanson – LJI Reporter
P
eople from Centreville came together on Wednesday, Nov. 26, to kick off the holiday season with its annual Christmas tree lighting. Members of the Centreville Home and School Association were on hand to serve guests warm and tasty hot chocolate donated by BWS Manufacturing. Everyone seemed to be in the spirit of the season as people mingled at the event. Centreville residents Andrea Weston and Hannah Hathaway led the crowd in Christmas carols. The Christmas tree,
generously decorated by MacLeod Construction, was officially lit for the 2025 season by members of the Centreville Elks Club. The event finished with a special visit from Santa Claus, who passed out treats to the local children, who enjoyed visiting with the chief elf. Event organizers extended special thanks to the Centreville Chamber of Commerce for their support, as well as other sponsors in addition to those already named, including Centreville ValuFoods, White’s Precast, and the Centreville Fire Department.
Top left: Santa thrilled the crowd. Top right: Centreville Home & School President Sylvia Patterson & VP Kimberly Brown refreshments. Bottom: Andrea Weston & Hannah Hathaway led the Christmas carols. (Sandra Hanson photos)
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‘Yup, she’s busy!’
RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 19
Brad’s Auto Repair starts strong in Coldstream By James Ness – LJI Reporter
C
oldstream and area residents now have a new place to bring their vehicles after the previous garage, owned by Larry Foster, changed hands earlier this year. In its place stands Brad’s Auto Repair, across from the Coldstream Convenience Store, which opened its doors on Oct. 6 and is already turning wrenches and heads. The new owner, Brad Adams, has carried this dream for years. “It’s been a lot of hard work,” said the Windsor
native, who now calls the Hartland area home. That work began with the submission of a business plan through the Community Business Development Corporation (CBDC). The plan went through cleanly, though Adams mentioned that “the big bunch of paperwork” and a postal strike delayed things longer than expected. Now 33, Adams says the early days have been encouraging. “Yup, she’s busy,” he told the River Valley Sun.
The business owner and father of two, aged nine and seven, says his goals extend beyond the paycheck. “I’m here, of course, to make a good living for my kids, but I’m also here for the community. I might do some fundraising for minor hockey, and eventually give someone an opportunity like Jake (Jacob Armour of JMA Service) gave me.” Adams credits much of his know-how to that mentorship. “I’m very thankful for what Jake did for me,” he said.
The town has noticed. Hartland’s Director of Communications and Development, Michelle Derrah, said the opening drew a great response. “Brad’s Auto Repair had garnered positive comments on our post announcing the opening,” she said. “It’s great to see Brad’s new shop taking its place. Having access to these services in our rural communities is so important.” In the weeks since, Adams has been building a steady rhythm of work and a base of customers. The shop operates Mon-
Brad Adams stands ready to welcome customers at his new shop in Coldstream. (James Ness photo)
day through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., providing comprehensive auto repair services. Vehicle inspections are expected to start next month. For Adams, though, it’s more than a business plan in progress — it’s an
opportunity to give back to the community something essential to small-town life. “I’ve got big plans for this. I knew what this place could be — and what it’s going to be,” he said.
Debec 4-H Club embarks on ‘honey’ of a fundraiser Members use special project as learning experience while raising money By Judy Cole – LJI Reporter
M
embers of the Debec 4-H Club embarked on a special project on Dec. 1. As part of a club fundraiser, they bottled 600 lbs. of honey and sold 400 jars in preorders. The event turned a learning experience into an important money making venture for the club. The club, which was on hiatus for a few years, got back up and running again this year. Volunteer leaders and club members meet at the Women’s Institute Hall in Debec.
Debec 4-H Club members Kelly Reardon and Victoria McDermid label the honey for sale. (Submitted photo)
Honey, ready for sale from members of the Debec 4-H Club. (Submitted photo)
Debec 4-H Club leader Yvan Sirois helps member Wylie Buckley draw honey for bottling. (Submitted photo)
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COURT NEWS
A roundup of cases processed through Woodstock Provincial Court
By Judy Cole Over five years for sex crimes A River de Chute man was sentenced to federal prison on Nov. 18 for sex crimes that spanned several years. Martin Sargefield, 31, appeared in provincial court in custody via video. Judge Karen Lee sentenced him to five years and six months in jail, minus 264 days spent in remand. Sargefield was also ordered to register with the federal DNA database and the national sex offender registry for 20 years. He must have no contact with children under the age of 16 and is banned from working, volunteering or attending public places where children may be present. He had a minimal prior criminal record. Judge Lee ordered Sargefield to seek counselling for sex offenders during his incarceration. He cannot have contact with his victim. A lifetime prohibition on weapons and firearms was also imposed. Sargefield was charged by the RCMP with touching involving a female minor for a sexual purpose (indictable) between July 1, 2016, and July 22, 2022. He pleaded guilty and was remanded to jail on May 27 to await sentencing. The court heard about a series of sexual acts involving the accused and the victim over a period of six years. The Crown withdrew two other charges. The court heard details of a psychological assessment which indicated Sargefield was functionally illiterate. Defence Counsel Wanda Severns said this showed her client had a cognitive disability that should be taken into consideration during his sentencing. The court heard he also had difficulty with impulse control. Judge Lee said the sexual abuse inflicted by Sargefield was sustained over a long period of time, and he tried to keep the abuse hidden, suggesting he was aware of his wrongdoing. When confronted by the police, he confessed and later expressed remorse during the court proceedings. 42 months for Meductic man Matthew William Harris, 46, of Meductic, was sentenced to 42 months in federal prison when he appeared in provincial court in Fredericton on Nov. 20 on a drug trafficking
charge. Harris and co-accused, Robert Louis Michaud, 54, formerly of Grand Falls, and Adrienne Susan Dickison, 34, of Dow Settlement, were charged for an incident at the airport in Lincoln on Nov. 23, 2023, when police seized a quantity of crystal meth. Michaud and Dickison were each sentenced to two years in federal prison. Dickison was sentenced in Fredericton on Oct. 22. Michaud appeared in court in Woodstock, in custody via video, on Oct. 28, and told the court he had been in prison in Nova Scotia for 50 days. Harris appeared in provincial court in Woodstock in custody via video on Nov. 25 to answer other charges laid by the RCMP. He pleaded not guilty, and his trial dates were set for Feb. 11, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. and Feb. 27, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. He pleaded not guilty to assault by choking involving a female victim and committing mischief causing property damage following an incident on Sept. 2 in Meductic, as well as two counts of driving while suspended. Possession of child pornography Corey Dean Bartlett, 56, of Perth-Andover, will appear for sentencing in provincial court in custody on Jan. 21, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. after changing his plea to guilty on a charge of possession of child pornography. Bartlett was charged by the RCMP in connection with an incident on February 7, 2017, at Tobique Narrows. His sentencing was first set for Dec. 16 but was adjourned to the new date with the consent of both the Crown and defence counsel. Trafficking through Canada Post Anastasia Shtukin, 25, of Woodstock, was sentenced to two years of house arrest when she appeared in provincial court on Nov. 21 on charges of drug trafficking through Canada Post. Shtukin was found guilty after trial in August on two counts of possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking. Judge Lucie Mathurin told the court that eight months of her sentence will be spent in full house arrest with permission to attend work, and the next 16 months will involve following a curfew. The judge also placed Shtukin on 12 months of probation and ordered her
to register with the federal DNA database. She was fined $200, and a 10-year prohibition on firearms was imposed. During her probation, she must seek mental health and addiction counselling. Shtukin had no prior criminal record and came to court with several letters of reference and a positive pre-sentence report. Judge Mathurin said the accused was not the master mind of the drug trafficking operation, and since her arrest, she had severed ties with her procriminal friends. She continues to work full-time at a local trucking company where she is a valued employee. RCMP charged Shtukin in connection with an incident on Feb. 25, 2022, on Beardsley Road in Lower Woodstock. Her arrest was part of an undercover police investigation into drug trafficking in the river valley. Evidence during the trial revealed packages containing crystal meth were being delivered to Shtukin’s home through Canada Post. During the execution of a search warrant, police seized four kilos of crystal meth, scales, baggies and drug paraphernalia from her residence. All items were forfeited to the Crown. 510 days in jail Joshua Adam Demerchant, 36, of Pembroke, was sentenced to 510 days in jail, minus time served, when he appeared in court in custody via video on Nov. 19. He was also placed on 12 months of probation. He was prohibited from driving for two years. Demerchant pleaded guilty to possession of a stolen side-by-side and flight from police on July 12, 2023, in Hartland; guilty to two counts of breaching a release order on Oct. 18, 2023, in Pembroke and on Dec. 4, 2023, in Woodstock; guilty to flight from police, driving while suspended and breach of a release order (ankle bracelet on July 15, 2024, in Woodstock. Demerchant appeared in provincial court in custody after being arrested on a warrant. He has 240 days left to serve in jail once his remand time is applied. Judge Leslie Jackson also imposed a standalone $7,588 restitution order for the damage done to the side-by-side owned by Dave’s Sports Centre in Woodstock. Demerchant had a lengthy prior criminal re-
cord and a history of addiction. Guilty to trafficking guns and drugs Larry Shane Kennedy, 50, of Kirkland, appeared for trial in provincial court on Dec. 1 and changed his plea to guilty on gun and drug trafficking charges. His sentencing was set for March 24, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. Kennedy pleaded guilty to possession of methamphetamine and possession of cocaine, both for the purpose of trafficking; and guilty to illegal possession of a firearm (a Russian SKS semi-automatic rifle) and improper storage of a firearm, stemming from a search warrant executed at his residence on Feb. 16 in Kirkland. A co-accused, Joshua Sterling Trail, 42, of Hartland, appeared in court in custody on Dec. 1 and pleaded guilty to indictable theft of a motor vehicle related to the same incident. He will be sentenced on Feb. 6, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. Crown Prosecutor Derek Weaver told the court police received a report about a stolen truck and an assault at the Eagles Nest Casino at Wotstak (Woodstock First Nation) on Feb. 5. Video surveillance revealed Kennedy and Trail arrived at the scene while an altercation was taking place between two other men about ownership of the truck, which had been posted for sale online. Trail eventually drove off in the truck, and Kennedy followed in his vehicle. On Feb. 16, police located the stolen truck in Kennedy’s garage in Kirkland while Trail was on the premises. Kennedy denied that the truck was stolen. A search of the garage turned up the illegal firearm and a container of drugs sitting on the driver’s seat of the truck. The Crown said there was $3,000 worth of crystal methamphetamine and $5,000 worth of cocaine in the container. Kennedy also pleaded guilty to an indictable possession of methamphetamine during another search of his residence in Kirkland on May 29. He was also charged with breaching a release order, but that matter was adjourned for monitoring until his sentencing in March. A co-accused, Dominique Gray, 26, of no fixed address, will appear in provincial court on Jan. 13, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. to answer a drug-related charge stemming from the
These pages contain some of the court coverage we provide for the community. Find all court stories at rivervalleysun.ca
May 29 incident in Kirkland. She is scheduled to stand trial on a trafficking charge in June. Joshua Trail also pleaded guilty to fraudulent impersonation for a separate incident on Dec. 9, 2024, at Richmond Corner. The court heard that police discovered a vehicle stuck in a snowbank near the community recreation centre. Trail was asleep inside the vehicle and then gave a false name to the police. He will be sentenced on Feb. 6 at 1:30 p.m. Woodstock Police also charged Trail with breaking into a dwelling house on Charlotte Street to commit mischief, unlawful entry for the purpose of committing an offence, possession of break-in tools, possession of a stolen Blue Cross card, mischief causing property damage to a door, interfering with the lawful use of property, and illegal possession of methamphetamine for an incident between Sept. 6-7, 2024, in Woodstock. He pleaded not guilty, and his trial was set for July 23-24, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. That trial date may now have to be moved up due to Trail being in custody. He was denied bail in July of this year. Trail was charged with driving while prohibited on June 6 in Woodstock and breaching a release order by cutting off his ankle bracelet on July 29 in Ashland. He pleaded not guilty on Nov. 4, and a trial date was set for Feb. 6, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. A co-accused, Dynielle Demerchant, 28, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court on June 3 and pleaded not guilty to the same list of charges for the alleged break-in on Charlotte Street. Her trial date was also set for July 23-24, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. Demerchant also pleaded not guilty to possession of stolen property and to a probation violation stemming from a separate incident on Sept. 17, 2024, in Woodstock. Her trial will be held on July 23-24, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. 720 days of house arrest Douglas Thomas Defazio, 37, of Moncton, was handed 720 days of house arrest when he appeared for sentencing in provincial court on Dec. 4 after pleading guilty to charges laid by Woodstock Police. Judge Melanie PoirierLeBlanc also placed him on two years of probation and ordered him to register with the federal DNA database. Defazio will be permitted to attend work or school during his house
arrest, and during the last 365 days, he will be required to follow a curfew. Defazio was released with conditions following a bail hearing and was ordered to enter rehab. He was arrested by Woodstock Police shortly after a stolen boat crashed on the rocks of the Meduxnekeag River, where the vessel was abandoned, and the suspect swam to shore. Defazio spent 57 days in remand before his release. He pleaded guilty to two counts of unlawful entry at a dwelling house and two counts of breach of probation in connection with break-ins at two different residences on Grant Street and Houlton Street on July 10, 2024. He had a prior criminal record. The Crown withdrew a mischief charge. Sentencing on drug charges Samuel Robert Crewe, 31, of Jacksonville, appeared in provincial court in custody via video on Dec. 2 and pleaded guilty to one set of drug charges laid by Woodstock Police. Crewe pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine and possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking on March 19 in Woodstock. His sentencing date was booked for Jan. 26, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. The Crown withdrew drug trafficking charges laid against a co-accused, Kaylee Melinda Smith. Crewe has multiple charges and court dates scheduled along with other co-accused. Kurtis Stenger, 33, of Fredericton, and Timothy Brian Wheelan, 37, of Jacksonville, appeared in provincial court with Crewe on Nov. 18 to answer multiple gun charges and drug trafficking charges laid by the RCMP. The three men were each charged with possession of methamphetamine, ecstasy, cocaine and fentanyl, all for the purpose of trafficking in connection with incidents between June 1 and June 13 in Jacksonville. They return to court on Dec. 12 at 9:30 a.m. to enter a plea. Stenger also faces 14 firearm charges in relation to the June 13 incident and will enter a plea on Dec. 12 at 9:30 a.m. Crewe has 13 firearm charges for the same incident and faces another charge of breaching a release order on March 6 in Woodstock. He pleaded not guilty. Trial dates were set for Sept. 16, and Nov. 13, 2026.
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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 21
Day & Ross Community Centre officially opens New arena marks end to Hartland’s ‘Old Barn’ era By James Ness – LJI Reporter
T
he ribbon was cut just after 4 p.m. Friday, Nov. 14, outside the front doors of the new Day & Ross Community Centre. The ceremony officially opened Hartland’s longplanned arena complex. Residents, former players, leaders and volunteers crowded around the entrance before filing inside to see the facility that replaced the former Hartland Arena, known to most locals simply as The Barn. “It’s inspiring to reflect on,” said Hartland Mayor Tracey Demerchant, moments before she cut the ribbon. “The belief in this project never wavered. It’s been two decades in the making.” The old rink opened in 1967 during a wave
of centennial-era arena construction across Canada. Its reputation for cold weather became a running joke in town and beyond. Bill Hogan, MLA for Carleton, described it in the Legislature as “the beloved and legendary Hartland barn, touted as the coldest arena left of the classic deep-freeze arenas built around Canada’s centennial in 1967.” By early 2024, the building had reached the end of its practical life. After the final skate, public works staff cut a square of ice from centre ice, preserved it and later mixed it into the first surface at the new facility. “It’s long overdue,” said Hogan at the ribboncutting ceremony. “It’s a wonderful attraction for
the community,” after which he added, “Go Huskies!” Also on hand to celebrate the new community centre was New Brunswick Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure and Grand Falls-Valléedes-Rivières-Saint-Quentin MLA Chuck Chaisson. “It’s wonderful to be here in Hartland. (The facility) has been years in the making,” he said, recalling his 2011 campaign where he was a proponent of the new arena. Chaisson also praised how Hartland came together to make this dream a reality. “The Day & Ross Community Centre will serve as the heart of recreation and wellness in the community, and will improve
the quality of life (for residents) for generations to come.” “This is a tremendous achievement,” said Richard Bragdon, MP for Tobique–Mactaquac, in a letter read at the opening event to the crowd. “I commend all who made this happen.” He added that the new facility will be a “benefit to the entire region.” Inside the new facility on Nov. 14, visitors toured the lobby, stands and upper walking track while volunteers and staff directed visitors through the building. Once the crowd settled inside, the Hartland Huskies skated out for the first official game in the new arena, facing the Nackawic Nighthawks. The stands
From left, N.B. Transportation & Infrastructure Minister and Grand Falls-Vallée-des-Rivières-Saint-Quentin MLA Chuck Chaisson, Hartland Mayor Tracey DeMerchant, and Woodstock-Hartland MLA Bill Hogan officially opened the Day & Ross Community Centre on Nov. 14. (James Ness photo)
filled quickly, with many spectators watching from the rail along the walking track. Sadly, the Huskies lost the game 8–1. The arena project was supported by $3.6 million from the Government of Canada, over $2.9 million from the Province of New
Brunswick and more than $2.4 million from the Town of Hartland. The Friends of Hartland group contributed more than $120,000 through weekly 50/50 draws, and the town recognized donors through a Recognition Wall and personal seat plaques.
No injuries after Jeep drives into Tim Hortons
RCMP say incident in Florenceville-Bristol involving 82-year-old driver an accident By Sandra Hanson– LJI Reporter
E
mployees and patrons of Tim Horton’s in Florenceville-Bristol got a jolting surprise on Tuesday night, Nov. 18, when a Jeep drove into the front of the restaurant, causing significant damage. “Right now, we don’t believe anyone was hurt, thank goodness,” said store owner Ian MacDougall, who was reached shortly after the accident occurred. In a statement released on Wednesday, Nov. 19, MacDougall of-
fered his gratitude. “Thankfully, no one was seriously injured,” he noted. “We’re grateful to the first responders for their quick arrival, and to our team members for their fast actions to keep everyone safe and comfortable.” MacDougall said the damage to the building will be repaired “as soon as possible.” In the meantime, he said the restaurant remains open as usual and that staff are “especially
excited to be selling Smile Cookies this week in support of Carleton North’s Breakfast Program.” Jessica Bushell was in the dining room with her children, Elliott (10) and Rylee (4) Trafford, when the accident happened. “We had just sat down with our milk and Smile cookies when out of nowhere, glass and steel were flying, and there was a Jeep speeding into the building with the engine revving…they came through hard and fast.” Bushell said that thankfully, they were not
hurt, but her children have been “shaken up” by the incident. RCMP Sgt. James Gallant told River Valley Sun that the accident occurred when an 82-yearold woman pressed the gas pedal instead of the brake when attempting to park her vehicle in front of the restaurant. “There were no injuries and nothing criminal,” said Gallant, but he did note that the building suffered severe damage and that a license review of the driver involved in the accident is being sought.
The dining area of the Florenceville-Bristol Tim Hortons was temporarily closed for a short time after a vehicle smashed into the restaurant around 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 18. (Sandra Hanson photo)
Local dancer to represent Canada in Ireland
Woodstock High School student headed to Dance World Cup in July 2026 RIVER VALLEY SUN
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oodstock High School stduent and Smith Dance Academy student Brooklyn Steward is headed to Ireland to represent Canada at the Dance World Cup in Dublin in July 2026. “I attended an audition for the World Performers Canada dance team in Saint John,” said Steward. “Being chosen to compete on the world stage is a dream come true, but it comes with significant ex-
penses.” Steward is now working to secure sponsorships for her trip. “Dance has been a part of my life since I was three-years-old,” explained Steward. “I am a member of the Martimes (World Performers Canada) team and will be attending practices in Moncton and Halifax leading up to the competition.” Steward plans to attend Mount Saint Vin-
cent University in the fall of 2026, in her goal to become an elementary school teacher. She also hopes to someday open her own dance studio. “I want to share the joy of dance with the next generation – just as my teachers have done for me.” If you’d like to sponsor her Dublin adventure, call (506) 321-6856 or email brooklyn01213@gmail. com
22 DEC. 2025
Sheriff Winslow house being torn down
Former historic home, bed and breakfast left to deteriorate after 2020 fire By Erin Seifarth – LJI Reporter
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t’s been more than five years since fire destroyed the historic Sheriff Winslow House in Upper Woodstock. Since the fire, the home has sat untouched, with holes in its roof, further deteriorating it. The house was initially built as a rectory in 1878 and was rebuilt around 1882 after a fire destroyed much of downtown Woodstock. Owners renovated the home and ran a bed-and-breakfast out of it for a time before a fire destroyed it on Oct. 10, 2020 After trying to en-
courage the owners to demolish it under the Dangerous and Injurious Premises bylaw, the town has given notice to the owners—their deadline to comply passed on Oct. 24, with no appeal received. The most recent inspection confirmed that the building remains a hazard. The council made the difficult decision to request a qualified contractor to demolish the property and remove the debris for safety reasons. Although the town will undertake the work, it will
eventually be reimbursed for the job by either the property owner or the province. If the province reimburses them, the Government of New Brunswick will also place a lien on the property. Councillors took a few moments to reflect on the loss of a piece of the town’s history. “It’s really sad that it’s come to this,” said Councillor Christa McCartney. “I know there’s been interest in the past for people to purchase it, and it has not been entertained. So, this is where it’s at, and it’s a
The historic Sheriff Winslow House in Upper Woodstock will be torn down. (Theresa Blackburn photo)
hard one.” Mayor Jones agreed that it was a shame that attempts to acquire and restore the property while it was still salvage-
able never succeeded, noting that the building is now too far gone to save. Councillor Julie Calhoun-Williams recalled efforts to look after and
protect the property over the years, only for it to end in this way. “It’s heartbreaking. It’s absolutely heartbreaking,” she said.
Committee resurrects Woodstock Arts Council Volunteer board and new website announced RIVER VALLEY SUN
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oodstock Arts Council is pleased to announce the renewal of its volunteer board of directors and launch its new website, www. woodstockartscouncil. ca. The Woodstock Arts Council is a communitybased arts and culture organization located in Woodstock, New Brunswick. It was founded in 1979 and is a federally incorporated charity with charitable tax status.
“For decades, Woodstock Arts Council has been foundational in presenting and supporting local arts and culture,” said WAC President Amy Anderson. “Without the efforts of longtime community volunteers such as Marg Beattie, the late Don Beattie, John Thompson, Jeane Wilson, and Beth Tait, we would not have seen the revival of the Carleton County Music Festival, the fundraising that purchased the Yamaha
Grand Piano piano located at Woodstock High School, or support for events such as FunStage and the Dooryard Arts Festival.” The new Board of Directors also includes longtime member John Thompson, as well as new directors Sarah Sharpe, Alie Ross, and Will Davidson, each of whom brings deep knowledge of the arts and its importance to community members of all ages.
“We want to continue to build on the legacy of Woodstock Arts Council, and we hope the public will share our enthusiasm for funding and supporting the arts,” added Anderson.
“Our new website will help us share our mission and provide a point ofcontact for community members who want to get involved in supporting local access toarts and culture and the de-
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velopment of local talent.” For more information, contact Amy Anderson, President Tel. (506) 425-0838. Email: amy.anderson. nb@gmail.com
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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 23
DECEMBER 26TH-January 13th
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NO ARTIFICAL TREES, PLEASE! Everyone living in our region is encouraged to participate! For more information, contact the Western New Brunswick Service Commission: 506-276-3610 x 201 / recycle@rsc12.ca / Facebook: WNBSC - Waste Management Division