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Serving to Better-Connect Communities in New Brunswick’s Upper St. John River Valley

Volume 2 Issue 2

WE’RE CELEBRATING OUR FIRST BIRTHDAY!

RIVER VALLEY SUN February 15 to March 15, 2020

FREE ONLINE @ www.rivervalleysun.ca

ROTARY GIVES $100,000 TO URVH FOUNDATION CLUB’S DONATION TO HELP FUND NEW ENDOSCOPY UNIT BY THERESA BLACKBURN

‘surprise’ donation from the Rotary Club of Woodstock to the recently formed Upper River Valley Hospital (URVH) Foundation received enthusiastic applause at the Rotary Red Carpet Gala Event in Woodstock on Feb. 8. “We decided this would be kept secret, and we wanted to make a splash at the event, and I think we succeeded,” said Rotary President Allison McLellan. Their secret was a $100,000 donation. “An anonymous donor approached the Rotary,” explained McLellan. “They asked the club to match their $100,000 donation.

It was an easy choice to make.” McLellan said the donation met the club’s fourway test. “Is it the truth? Is it fair to all concerned? Will it build goodwill and friendships? Is it beneficial to all concerned? It fit all the parameters we use as a funding guideline,” said McLellan. President McLellan also noted that the donation dovetailed nicely into Rotary’s priority to support the health and wellness of mothers and children, both locally and globally. The funds are going toward the URVH Foundation’s first priority – replac-

ing the surgical endoscopy unit at the hospital. During the presentation at the Rotary Gala, URVH Facility Manager Sherry Leech told the crowd the purchase of this particular piece of equipment will mean ‘high clarity exams of the esophagus, stomach, and bowel’ and allow doctors to ‘biopsy and diagnose ulcers, precancerous and cancerous areas.’ The estimated cost for the unit is $290,000. With the two donations, only $90,000 is left to fundraise. Dr. Bill Mutrie is a member of the URVH FoundaContinued on page 2

SEE GIFT OUR T COMM O THE ON PA UNITY GE 14

Woodstock Rotary Club members, Upper River Valley Hospital staff and URVH foundation members take the stage to announce the big donation at the Rotary Club Gala in Woodstock Feb 8. (Theresa Blackburn photo.)

METH: MORE THAN A POLICING ISSUE

WOODSTOCK POLICE CHIEF, RCMP SGT. SAY COMMUNITY ACTION NEEDED By JIM DUMVILLE

Woodstock Police Force photo shows crystal meth “Ice” pills seized during a January investigation. (Woodstock Police Force photo)

rystal meth addiction and related crimes are a major problem in Carleton County and local police forces are working hard to reduce its impact on society. But, say Woodstock Police Chief Gary Forward and West District Woodstock RCMP Sgt. Brendan Flewelling, police alone cannot solve the problem. “It’s going to take a societal shift,” said Flewelling. “We’re making a dent, but it’s an ongoing battle. Forward agrees, noting his force works closely

with the RCMP and other law enforcement agencies, but the solution requires input from across the community. “It can’t just be enforcement,” he says. Both police officers said they are working with other groups and agencies to be proactive in fighting the growing meth problem. Forward said a community advisory committee is being created to map out a response to the problem. While not spearheading the committee, ForContinued on page 2

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ROTARY Continued from page 1

tion and was on hand for the presentation. “That was quite a gift. It really was. I credit the Rotary but also the

METH Continued from page 1

ward said, the Woodstock Police Force will be involved. He said several organizations are directly involved, including health officials, schools, the business community, municipal officials and others. Flewelling said the RCMP is also willing to work with the advisory committee. “You can’t police your way out of a meth problem,” he said. “It needs to be a community reaction. While other drugs are still present in the region, both police officers say meth is, by far, the biggest problem, noting it is both readily available and cheap. “It’s highly toxic, inexpensive and highly addictive,” said Flewelling. Forward said the drug is easy and cheap to make, using over-the-counter drugs and common toxic chemicals. Flewelling said the growing use of meth, which is a huge problem across North America, is a product of the digital age. Meth is not new, he said, explaining it was developed in Nazi Germany to be given to troops. The recipe became accessible through the internet, he added. While neither police force sees much evidence

dedication of Dr. Wayne McLaughlin for all his work in getting the foundation going,” said Mutrie. “It’s really going to allow us to achieve great things for patients in the region. There are so many gifted people work-

ing at the hospital.” Mutrie, who retired in January after 42 years as a practicing physician, said he was glad to continue working for the health of people in the region, but in a different capacity.

“Being a doctor was the best job in the world, and I loved every minute of it. My patients gave me far more than I gave them. Being a part of the foundation is just my way of giving back to them,” he added.

of meth labs in the region, both see the drug flowing into the area at an alarming rate. While crystal methamphetamine can be ingested in several ways, including smoking or by syringe, Flewelling said, a pill form, called ice pills, is the most common in this region. He said it’s the impact of the highly addictive drug on the user which raises the most concern. “Meth is a game-changer. It will ruin your life,” said Flewelling. He said the personality change of someone high on meth is alarming, noting meth users are prone to violence. “Lack of empathy is the concern to me,” said Flewelling. “They don’t care who they’re hurting.” He said he would encourage parents to “have that talk with their kids” about the dangers of meth. Flewelling said an indication someone is intoxicated on meth could be rapid speech, dilated pupils and lack of empathy. He said signs of meth addiction include poor hygiene, including dental hygiene, weight loss and withdrawal from regular routine. Both Flewelling and Forward emphasized the importance of education. Forward said education is part of the mandate of the community advisory committee. Both he and Flewelling said members

of their respective forces are taking their messages to local schools. While police are targetting traffickers, said Forward, legal enforcement is the end result. He said he hopes the committee will have the tools to offer addicts a place to turn for help. “There needs to be support, compassion and empathy to help those addicted,” Forward said. “If we can help one person it will all be worthwhile.” If the system is in place to help addicts, he said, hopefully, they will feel safe to come forward. Flewelling stressed the importance of reaching people before they try meth. “Education is huge,” he said. “We need to pump the brakes. This stuff can ruin your life.” Both the Woodstock Police Force and the RCMP have made major arrests and seized large quantities of meth, but both Flewelling and Forward said the problem is ongoing. On Jan. 24, for example, Woodstock Police executed a warrant on Prince William Street in Woodstock. The investigation led to the arrest of two women ages 46 and 41 on Jan. 23 and a 48-year-old man on Jan. 24. Flewelling said his force’s most recent arrest on drug charges occurred on the weekend of Feb. 8 when an investigation led

to the arrest in Hartland of a 27-year-old man and 19-year-old woman. Drug investigations and arrests are only part of a busy schedule for local police forces. He said theft and break-and-enter crimes have kept officers on the run in recent months. Often, said Flewelling, those crimes are related to the drug problem as addicts try to finance their meth habit. He said police found more than $100,000 in stolen property during their various searches. Flewelling said about half of the stolen items were returned to the own-

IN CRISIS?

Here are the numbers to call: RCMP/Woodstock Police

911

Upper River Valley Hospital

375-5900

Hôtel Dieu – Perth-Andover

273-7100

Woodstock Mental Health

325-4419

Perth-Andover Mental Health

273-4701

After Hours Mobile Crisis 1-888-667-0444 CHIMO

1-800-667-5005

Telecare

811

Nackawic Health Centre

575-6600

Tobique Valley Comm. Health

356-6600

Brought to you by the Woodstock Suicide Prevention Committee

ers. Both Flewelling and Forward said the public can play an important role in helping the police investigate drug or other crimes. “The public is instrumental,” said Flewelling. “If they hear or know things, they need to tell us.”

Both said they can inform the police by calling either the Woodstock Police Force or RCMP detachment, or if they want to remain anonymous, they can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (84777) or www.crimenb.ca.

Where to get help for crystal meth addiction Tele-care 811 Tele-Care is a free, confidential, health advice and information line. Dial 811 to access bilingual, registered nurses, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Chimo Helpline 1-800-667-5005 Chimo is a provincial crisis phone line, accessible 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to all residents of New Brunswick. Hope for Wellness Helpline 1-855-242-3310 The Hope for Wellness Help Line offers immediate help to all Indigenous peoples across Canada. It is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to offer counselling and crisis intervention. Woodstock Addictions and Mental Health 506-325-4419 / Mon-Fri 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Perth-Andover Addictions and Mental Health 506-273-4701 / Mon-Fri 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Mental Health Mobile Crisis Unit 1-888-667-0444 - 7 days a week from 2 - 10 pm Inpatient Detoxification Services: access by self-referral only; all admissions are voluntary. The detoxification unit provides inpatient treatment for the withdrawal from mood altering substances such as alcohol, cocaine, opiates and other drugs. Fredericton Detoxification Unit 506-452-5525 / Located at 65 Brunswick St., Fredericton, NB A 10-bed unit that provides medical support, education, and recovery planning for substance abuse and gambling. Phone 452-5525; accepts messages only, calls are returned to plan admissions Monday through Friday. Miramichi Detoxification Unit 506-623-6175 / Located at 500 Water St., Miramichi. NB. Moncton Detoxification Unit 506-856-2333 / Located at 81 Albert St., Moncton, NB. Ridgewood Addiction Services 506-674-4300 / Located at 416 Bay St., South Bay, Saint John, NB provides a range of services for individuals, youth and family members affected by substance abuse and gambling. Residential rehabilitation facilities Ridgewood Centre (Saint John) 506-647-4300 / 416 Bay St., South Bay, Saint John, NB Campbellton Regional Addiction Services 506-789-7055 / 53 Gallant Dr., Campbellton, NB Rising Sun Treatment Centre (First Nations) 506-627-4626 / 31 Riverview Rd., Eel Ground, NB Portage Atlantic 1-888-735-9800 / Cassidy Lake, NB, is a non-profit organization established in 1995, operates a residential drug addiction rehabilitation centre for Atlantic Canada youth (14-21) in New Brunswick. *In an emergency, call 911 or visit a local emergency department.* Early Recovery Group, Woodstock - each Wednesday (unless school is closed due to weather) from 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. at Bicentennial Boardroom (1st Floor), 200 King Street, Bicentennial Place, Woodstock, NB Early Recovery Group in Perth-Andover - each Tuesday at 1 p.m. at the Mental Health and Addictions at 35F Tribe Rd., Perth-Andover, NB

Woodstock Police Chief Gary Forward. (Jim Dumville photo)

RCMP Sgt. Brendan Flewelling. (Jim Dumville photo)

The River Valley Sun is a free, editorially independent monthly newspaper serving the Upper St. John River Valley of New Brunswick. “Our mission is to share feature stories, a variety of viewpoints, and information about local community events, minor sports, and municipal news that isn’t always covered by mainstream media. We believe a community is stronger when people know and understand their neighbours.” Editorial Policy: The River Valley Sun welcomes letters on subjects of interest to our readers and prints columns on a variety of topics. Use of any material is at the discretion of the editors, and we reserve the right to omit or edit letters to meet space requirements, for clarity, or to avoid libel or invasion of privacy. Letters and columns published do not necessarily reflect the editorial policies or beliefs of the newspaper.

Harvest House Woodstock hosts MAMA Meetings (Mothers Against Meth Addiction) on Mondays at 7 pm. This is a women-only group, providing a safe place for women struggling with family members whose lives are being destroyed by drug abuse. For more information on this group, contact Natasha Smith at 323-9315.

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

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA

Bath: complete school project; Florenceville-Bristol: build new school

Recommendations to District Education Council call for K-to-8 schools in both communities By Jim Dumville

ore than 100 people filled the Bath Elementary School on Saturday morning, Jan 25, to drive home a message. They want the Anglophone West District Education Council to recommend finishing the job already started in their village. The elementary school, which was officially closed four years ago, currently serves as the Bath Community School for students in kindergarten to Grade 8 to allow completion of the stalled upgrade of the former Bath Middle School next door. The meeting in Bath was the first of two on the day as DEC members undertake sustainability studies of four northern Carleton Schools. Members moved on to Bristol Elementary School Saturday afternoon to hold a similar public session. The previous Saturday, DEC held public meetings at Florenceville Middle and Florenceville Elementary schools. Unlike Bath, the message delivered at the three Florenceville-Bristol schools urged DEC members to recommend closure of all three schools in their town in favour of a new K-to-Grade 8 school built in the community. The divide between public interests in Bath and Florenceville-Bristol appeared narrow as presenters at all four schools promoted the construction of a new school primarily to replace the Florenceville-Bristol schools. Most believed the future of the Bath school should be treated separately by DEC members. In Bath, nine presentations delivered a passionate plea to move forward with the completion of the plan DEC recommended in 2015, which was put into action for the 2015-16 school year. That year saw the closure of the elementary school and all students, from kindergarten to Grade 8, moved next door to the newly named Bath Community School. In 2017, the provincial cabinet approved a ma-

jor capital project to upgrade the Bath Community School to meet the needs of its students. That project was placed on hold by the new Progressive Conservative government last year. Carleton-Victoria Liberal MLA Andrew Harvey spoke at both the Bath and Bristol meetings, calling it an “emotional” day, noting it was “the last day to convince DEC to do the right thing.” Like other Bath presenters, Harvey noted the millions of dollars already invested in the retrofit of the old Bath Middle School to prepare to meet its new needs as the K-to-8 Bath Community School. “This project is 75 percent complete,” Harvey said, noting $4.1 million was spent before the project was halted by the current government. He said the discovery of asbestos pushed the costs of the original estimate higher, but also noted demolishing the school will also have to include the cost of asbestos removal. “One-third of the asbestos is already removed and paid for,” he reminded DEC, “Why not remove the rest?” Harvey said it would require $2 million to complete the project in Bath. “It’s a wise financial investment to keep the school,” said Harvey. Harvey’s focus on the funds already invested in the Bath project echoed those of many other speakers on the day. Sean Kilfoil, who along with Scott Oakes, delivered a presentation on behalf of the Bath PSSC, Parent School Support Committee, cited two options for the future of the school site. He said the province must choose between a “$5 million parking lot or a $7.5 million school.” Oakes touched on costs of the renovation or demolition of the schools but emphasized that should not be the primary question. “There’s too much emphasis on cost,” he said, “but not to the cost of delays to our students.”

Oakes said students, parents and staff believed in 2015 that the future of their schools had been resolved, but they now find themselves facing the second school sustainability study in five years. Margaret Johnson, who ran as the PC candidate and narrowly lost to Harvey in last fall’s election, also addressed DEC members in Bath. The former teacher said she was not there as a candidate but as a concerned citizen. “I’m truly humbled by the presentations here today,” Johnson said. She said the facts presented demonstrated “how seamlessly” the planned retrofit in Bath could roll into the provincial government’s recently released Green Paper on education. Bath Mayor Troy Stone expressed frustration to be back making the same arguments that were successful in 2015. He said the loss of the school would have a devastating impact on the village, including putting the community’s recreation programs and facilities at risk. In speaking to the River Valley Sun following his presentation, Stone said the entire community was blindsided by the government’s decision to cancel the ongoing school retrofit and issue a tender, later rescinded, to demolish the building. Stone, like other presenters in Bath, also stressed the importance of the Step Ahead early learning program housed in the Bath Community School. The mayor said the highly acclaimed program is being put at risk. Jenna Harvey and Somer Drost made a presentation on behalf of the Step Ahead program, outlining the services it offers to children and families in the region. They also explained the major challenges the program faced over the past five years as it waited for the retrofit at the planned Bath Community School to be completed. Other speakers in Bath

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included Mike Blanchard on behalf of the Bath Lions Club, retired teacher and principal Gerald Sullivan, parent and former student Rachel Smith and Charles McNair, Bath’s deputy mayor who explained he was speaking as a concerned citizen. Charles McNair delivered his presentation at all four sustainability study meetings, calling for a new K-to-8 school to be built along the old Trans Canada Highway in Florenceville-Bristol. Although serving as Bath’s deputy mayor, McNair said he was addressing DEC as a concerned citizen, not as a member of the Bath council. He emphasized at the Bath and Bristol meetings his call for a new K-to-8 school doesn’t affect his views on the Bath project. He believes the DEC’s best recommendation would be to support the completion of the retrofit to the Bath Community School and build a new school to serve Florenceville-Bristol. At Bristol Elementary School Saturday afternoon, Harvey outlined his vision for the Florenceville-Bristol schools, noting it will have to be addressed on a different timeline than the Bath situation. “The timing is really important on these,” he said. “The Bath project has to be completed immediately. Building a new school is a long process, about five or six years.” He later told the River Valley Sun he supports completing the Bath retrofit without going through the provincial government’s capital budget process. He noted the Bath project already went through the process in 2015. Harvey said a new K-toGrade 8 school will have to go through the capital budget process. Under this timeline, he explained, the Bath situation will be addressed immediately and the Florenceville-Bristol issue a few years down the road. As for the location of a planned new school, Harvey said he has no opin-

Guardian

Bath Community School is sitting idle because of a delayed upgrade. (Jim Dumville photo)

ion, other than it should be within the town boundaries. Florenceville-Bristol CAO Sarah Pacey was on hand in Bristol, as she was at the previous Saturday’s meeting, to outline the town’s proposal of a new school built near Carleton North High School. Currently, Pacey said, the student populations are 224 at Florenceville Elementary School, 97 at Bristol Elementary School and 207 at Florenceville Middle School for a total of 528. She added the population of the Meduxnekeag Consolidated School in Woodstock, one of two new schools in that community, is approximately 620, making a similarly designed K-to-8 in Florenceville-Bristol a viable option. Pacey said the town undertook a detailed study of the education and social needs of the community and came to the conclusion the creation of a “learning campus” in the area surrounding the current Carleton North High School was the preferred option. She said that plan offered better educational options for the children, and economic benefits to the town. Pacey said the town has also studied potential uses for the vacated schools, including a possible medical clinic, art and performance centre or a business co-operative. McNair’s proposal to

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replace the three schools with one differs from the town’s only on the issue of location. As he repeated at all four meetings, he doesn’t believe the location of any of the existing schools is a viable site for the new schools. McNair said he envisions three K-to-8 schools in northern Carleton, including the existing school in Centreville, the refurbished school in Bath and the new school in Florenceville-Bristol. He proposed the construction of a new school on Route 130, the old Trans Canada Highway, on land near the Florenceville Motor Inn. McTimony said members of DEC will take all the presentations under advisement and will deliver its recommendations at a public meeting at Carleton North High School on Thursday, March 19 at 6:30 p.m. He said DEC will recommend one of three options. They can maintain the status quo; recommend upgrades to one or more of the existing schools; or recommend closure of schools and construction of a new K-to-8. He said those recommendations would not include the location of a new school, saying that would be in the hands of the provincial government. McTimony also pointed out the DEC could recommend the closure of some, but not all, of the existing schools.

Planning’s

new location at 389 Connell Street, Woodstock Guardian Financial Planning

PLAN – INVEST – PROTECT

MLA fears budget cuts will target rural NB Andrew Harvey says strategic investment needed

By Jim Dumville

fter sitting as a member of cabinet in a majority Liberal government, Carleton-Victoria MLA Andrew Harvey is getting used to life as the official opposition in a minority Progressive Conservative government. He believes his central role has not changed. It is to look after the interests of his constituents. Harvey said he has a particular interest in protecting the interests of rural New Brunswickers, who he fears will take a hit as the government delivers cuts to important programs and investments. “I’m concerned about government cutting services in rural New Brunswick, such as health care and justice,” he said. In addition to fighting to maintain services at the hospitals in his riding, Harvey said he will also battle to ensure residents have fair access to justice. “I’m going to fight to keep the Woodstock courthouse,” he said. “We got to fight for what we need in rural New Brunswick,

access to basic services.” Harvey said the answer is not just cutting, but making capital investments. “We need to get to work with the private sector for strategic investments,” he said. Harvey also cited major projects in his riding which need immediate attention and funding, including Perth-Andover’s flood mitigation project. “We need to make that decision and finish it,” Harvey said. Harvey will also be pushing the government to provide immediate funding for the completion of the upgrade of the Bath Community School by the fall of 2020. On Saturday, Jan. 25, Harvey made that recommendation as one of several presenters at public forums hosted by the Anglophone West District Education Council as part of sustainability studies for the Bath school and three in Florenceville-Bristol. He also called on DEC members to recommend the future construction of a new K-to-8 in Florenceville-Bristol.

In other education-related issues, Harvey said he supports the current government’s green paper on education, saying he has “no problem” with looking for new ideas, including different ways to deliver French immersion. As Education Minister Dominic Cardy hosts public meetings in relation to the green paper, Harvey is pushing for one of those meetings to be held in or near his riding. He believes local educators and residents can offer valuable information, but may not wish to travel to Fredericton to do so. Harvey said Carleton and Victoria county educators have a wealth of educational expertise which they could share. He said, for example, the area is well known for its work with trade and industrial arts. Plus, he said, the area is “very fortunate” to be home to five early childhood development centres. “Those investments at a young age pay dividends,” Harvey said. Harvey, a former environment minister, cur-

rently sits on the Climate Change and Environment Stewardship Committee. He said he hopes the views of all parties will be given fair consideration. At an upcoming meeting, he said, committee members will be given a status update and reports, including details from public meetings on the spraying of glyphosate on New Brunswick forests. Harvey hopes the government builds upon environmental action which began while he was the environment minister. For example, he said, his government established the Climate Change Action Fund, which recommended changing heating at the Perth-Andover hospital to biomass. While the Higgs government introduced its own carbon-pricing formula which earned the support of the federal government, Harvey said much more action is needed to reduce the province’s greenhouse gas emissions. “Carbon pricing is only one piece of it,” he said. “It’s what you do with that investment.”

Carleton-Victoria MLA Andrew Harvey at the school sustainability session in Bristol. (Jim Dumville photo)

Harvey also expressed his support for municipal governance models in his riding, saying he supports ongoing studies towards the creation of Rural Community or Municipality with Florenceville-Bristol as the hub. While such a process will require a plebiscite of all area residents, Harvey doubts voters will have enough information in time for this May’s municipal elections. He said local service district residents need to have a voice at the table when decisions are made affecting their communities. Harvey said a rural community would provide that. He said a rural community or municipality

would also give local service districts direct access to federal gas-tax rebate funds which currently go into provincial government coffers. Harvey said rural New Brunswick faces a number of unique challenges that must be addressed, citing policing as an example. He said the lack of police presence in the riding’s town and rural communities is a problem. “It’s not a reflection of anyone’s fault, including the RCMP, but there’s not enough police coverage,” Harvey said. He said his riding, like others, is facing a major drug problem and is plagued by thefts, break and enters, and other crimes.

Economy key to fixing problems, says MLA

Stewart Fairgrieve looks at challenges facing riding/province By Jim Dumville

hile there’s plenty of issues for the New Brunswick government to tackle as it heads deeper into 2020, Carleton PC MLA Stewart Fairgrieve said the economy has to be its focus. “Without a good economy, everything else is hard to achieve,” he told the River Valley Sun in early February. As his government strives to balance the budget and create a viable debt-reduction plan, it must still address challenges in health, education and the environment. Part of the effort to attract investors to the province, Fairgrieve said, is ensuring it can offer an available workforce. “Population growth is one of the most critical issues,” Fairgrieve said. While small-c conservatives often display a negative opinion of immigration, that’s not true with New Brunswick Progressive Conservatives, Fairgrieve said. “Immigration is a key component of our economic strategy,” he said. Fairgrieve said the

Carleton and surrounding ridings provide a roadmap on how to make immigration work for the benefit of the economy. He said businesses like FMI, Jolly Farmer and the transportation industry rely on an immigration workforce to fill vacant positions. Over the years, Fairgrieve said, he has worked closely with the Multicultural Association of Carleton County, noting the organization plays a vital role in making newcomers feel at home in the community. “They bring such a wealth to our community,” he said. While his government strives to cut costs and boost the economy, Fairgrieve said, it still needs to meet the current needs of the communities. Fairgrieve said he supports two major infrastructure projects in his riding and expects provincial funding support for both the second-well project in Woodstock and the Central Carleton Recreation Project in Hartland. While the projects differ significantly, he said, he is working with officials in both towns to make sure they get the financial support

they need. In Woodstock, Fairgrieve said, the town has already moved ahead with the second-well project but ran into unexpected costs when historical artifacts were discovered on the well-site. Fairgrieve said he met with town officials on a regular basis to discuss additional financing for the project and is confident the town will meet the requirements for funding support. “We had to look outside the box,” Fairgrieve said. As for the new rec centre to replace the aging Hartland Arena in his hometown, Fairgrieve said the town and the building committee took major strides toward making the project a reality. He said no one ever disputed the need for a new rec centre, but the question was would it be sustainable. “The fall of 2017 was a key date,” he said, referring to the plebiscite in which surrounding communities voted overwhelmingly to financially support the project. “Then the project became sustainable.” Fairgrieve said the new project was costed in a way the community can afford.

He said all parties, including Liberal MLA Andrew Harvey in the neighbouring riding of Carleton Victoria and Tory MP Richard Bragdon, and all levels of governments support the Hartland project. “I believe the project will be funded,” he said. “I can’t tell you when.” The Carleton MLA sees the co-operation between Harland and its neighbouring communities as a positive step but says residents in rural communities must choose their own path to local governance options. “Residents of New Brunswick deserve the right to make that decision,” he said. Fairgrieve said the government can’t force amalgamation but local service districts need a local voice, which, he said, can be achieved through forming rural communities, rural municipalities or another option to give all New Brunswickers a voice in decisions affecting their communities. The Carleton MLA said the minority government has forced a higher degree of cooperation in Freder-

Carleton MLA Stewart Fairgrieve. (Photo submitted)

icton, which he hopes will continue even in future majority governments. Fairgrieve cited the Climate Change and Environmental Stewardship Committee as an example, saying all parties have a strong voice on environmental issues of the day. He pointed out PC MLA Bruce Fitch chairs the committee, with Liberal Kevin Arsneault serving as vicechair. He added Harvey also sits on the committee. “It has some teeth,” he said. “This is the real deal.” Fairgrieve said he is proud of the environmental actions his government, under the leadership of Minister Mike Holland, has taken so far. He noted his government addressed the carbon tax issue to the federal government’s satisfaction, while still reducing the cost to New Brunswickers. He pointed out his government doubled the con-

servation of forests from five percent to 10 percent. That conservation, he said, will include Crown land, private land, along with additional conservation along the St. John River watershed. After watching what the Meduxnekeag River Association has accomplished over the years, Fairgrieve said he wants to build on that example. He expressed his interest in preserving the old-growth forest, similar to that along the Meduxnekeag, along the Becaguimac Stream. Despite working within the confines of a narrow minority and facing the potential of an election at any time, Fairgrieve said Premier Higgs and the government believe in making the right, sometimes tough, decisions for the province. “This isn’t about legacy,” he said, “it’s about helping New Brunswick.”

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA

Comments on Woodstock’s 10-year municipal plan encouraged 30-day comment period now open as plan lays out its long-term vision

By Jim Dumville

he long process of outlining the town of Woodstock’s strategic plan for the next decade is on the home stretch. After numerous meetings, public sessions and intensive studies by town officials and representatives of Dillon Consultants, the Town of Woodstock Municipal Plan By-Law now sits in a 30-day window awaiting feedback from the public. The comprehensive plan, along with future land-use map, can be found on the Town of Woodstock website awaiting feedback. The comment period stretches from Feb. 11 to March 11. A scheduled public presentation by representatives of Dillon Consulting at the Feb. 10 council meeting to launch the 30-

day comment period was cancelled when poor road conditions didn’t allow the consultants to travel from Fredericton. The comment period will end at the March 11 council meeting, with council scheduled to refer the plan to the planning advisory committee on March 23. The plan is scheduled to be considered by PAC on March 30, with it returning to council on April 13 for a public hearing and first and second reading. If all goes as scheduled, the plan will receive third reading and approval on April 27, before being sent to the Minister of Energy and Local Government in May for registration. The 10-year-plan, re-

placing the previous plan from 2008, outlines the rules, regulations and policies, along with present and future land use and zoning bylaws surrounding the town’s long-term development goals. Mayor Art Slipp said the 10-year-plan is a vital document that will serve as a road-map towards the long-term economic development of Woodstock. He said it was the goal of the council to get it completed prior to the May municipal elections. In the leadup to the Feb. 11 start of the public comment period, Dillon Consulting hosted open houses seeking public input into the plan, the last of which was on Feb. 3 at the AYR Motor Centre. Among those dropping

by to seek information and offer advice on that day was local developer Graham Gill. A resident of Grafton, Gill, who owns property in Woodstock, expressed frustration with the town’s treatment of businesspeople looking to build in the town. He said he and other developers run into too many roadblocks because of town policies. “We want to develop, but they can’t tell us how to do it,” Gill said. Gill, who is part owner of a new store and gas bar in Grafton, said they originally considered building it in Woodstock. He said dealing with the town of Woodstock proved much more frustrating than getting approval in Grafton. Other visitors to the open house at AYR Mo-

tor Centre included Greg Grant and Kendall Leech, representing the Woodstock Trailmakers Snowmobile Club. Grant, who is Zone 4 director of the New Brunswick Federation of Snowmobile Clubs, said they wanted to see the longrange plans for the NB Trail, which serves as a snowmobile trail in winter. He said the trail, which runs along the St. John River through downtown Woodstock, is a key part of the trail system through northwestern New Brunswick. He said it also connects to other trail systems within town limits that provide several local businesses with access to snowmobile traffic. Grant said winter tourism, including snowmobiling, is a growing industry

and he wanted to ensure the town’s long-range plans took advantage of that. “I want the town to be part of that $90 million (spent annually) on snowmobiling,” he said. Stephen Stone and Jennifer Brown, planners with Dillon Consulting, said the open houses provided a wealth of feedback from the public. Mayor Slipp said the 10-year-plan details the town’s future plans in several areas, including housing, commercial development, zoning, vision for the industrial parks and the revitalization of the downtown and more. He said members of council and staff encourage feedback from the public over the 30-day comment period.

Florenceville-Bristol postpones Snow Blast Town’s winter celebration delayed by winter storm By Jim Dumville

lorenceville-Bristol’s celebration of winter, Snow Blast, has been delayed by snow. With forecasts predicting heavy snowfall on Thursday, Friday and into Saturday morning, the town opted to postpone the event scheduled for Feb. 8 until Feb. 22. In a notice listed on its Facebook page, town staff noted the delay to Feb. 22, adding all times for the Cardboard Classic judging and races will remain the same for the new date. “Any changes for all other Snow Blast events will be posted as they become available,” town officials explained on the postponement notice. “Thanks for your understanding, see you on the 22nd!” With Disney as the theme, Florenceville-Bristol will come alive with the cel-

ebration of winter on the new date of Saturday, Feb. 22. While Riverside Park at 9173 Main Street will be the centre of the action as it hosts a variety of familyoriented events, Snow Blast activities will also be held at the Welcome Centre behind the Northern Carleton Civic Centre, the Community Hall, the Andrew and Laura McCain Library and the Free Will Baptist Church on Tapley Road. Among the popular returning events this year will be annual Children’s Cardboard Classic at which local children will showcase and use their uniquely designed sleds, starting at 11 a.m. with judging, following by sliding at noon. The event will be held at the Riverside Park hill. The Adult Cardboard Classic will follow the children’s event. Town officials note reg-

istration form, including rules, can be found online, with the children’s event open to ages five to 13 years. Please note that washrooms are located at the Train Station and the Welcome Centre. Some events and times may change in lieu of the postponement. SNOW BLAST EVENTS: Mayor’s Pancake Breakfast - At the Community Hall from 8 to 11 a.m. Cost is by donation for a local charity. Sliding - The Riverside Park hill will be available for sliding before and after the Cardboard classics. Bring your own sled and enjoy. Skating - Bring your skates and spend some time on our new outdoor skating rink at Riverside Park! Located behind the gazebo. The Lil’ Hills Sliding Hill - This will be open and designed especially for all

the wee ones to have fun on from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Riverside Park. Cardboard Classics Judging at 11 a.m.; race starts at noon at Riverside Park. It is open to youth ages 5-13. Adult Cardboard Classic to follow. Indoor Winter Carnival - This will be held at the Welcome Centre for children ages 2-8, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mascot - The town’s mascot yeti named Blaster will be on hand to pose for pictures and greet all our guests to Snow Blast. Staff urges everyone to post the photos on the town’s Facebook Page. Tasty Treats - On sale in the Gazebo at Riverside Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fire Truck Rides - From 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in the Shogomoc Railway Museum parking lot. Woodsman Water Boiling Contest - The BMR Besthome Building Sup-

gregmacpherson.ca

plies Woodsman Water Boiling Contest at 1:30 p.m. at Riverside Park, with prizes awarded to the top three. Registration Form. Cost: $5/team Taffy on the Snow - Andrew Harvey from Sugarmoon at Riverside Park to serve delicious Taffy on the Snow. 45’s Card Party - At the Community Hall from 1-3 p.m. $5/team of 2. Teams must pre-register at the Recreation Office. Registration Form. Deadline to register is Friday, Feb. 7. Andrew & Laura McCain Library - The Library will be holding two

separate Snow Blast events! ‘Hot Chocolate & Cool Stories’ is a drop-in program happening between 2:30 and 4:30 p.m. Stop in to enjoy a snack and a story. There will also be a gourmet Hot Chocolate Bar set up. Kinsmen Family Fun Event - Behind the Northern Carleton Civic Centre from 2 to 5 p.m., including sliding, hot chocolate and more. Free Spaghetti Supper - The Free Will Baptist Church (20 Tapley Road) will be hosting a Free Spaghetti Supper from 4-6 p.m.

Cottagers not impressed with ASF’s bass-eradication plan Project proposes poisoning Miramichi Lake to protect salmon stocks

By Jim Dumville

ottage owners surrounding Miramichi Lake, near Juniper, remain unconvinced a plan to eradicate smallmouth bass by dumping a natural poison into the water will be either safe or successful. Trish Foster of Florenceville-Bristol, who serves as the spokesperson for a group of concerned cottage owners, said the lake families have several major concerns with the plan by the Atlantic Salmon Federation (ASF) and the North Shore Micmac Council to use a product called Noxfish II, with the active ingredient rotenone, to eradicate the invasive species. The smallmouth bass, which is considered an invasive species, was discovered in Miramichi Lake in 2008. Not the least of the cottage owner’s concerns, said Foster, was the late notice they had of the planned eradication, which proponents plan to carry out in September. Secondly, she said, cottage owners are still waiting for clarification on the short-term and longterm impact of the plan, as well as the success rate of past uses of rotenone. Neville Crabbe, director of communications for the ASF, acknowledged cottage owners possibly should have been brought into discussions earlier, but the federation is attempting to keep the group informed. The ASF hosted a meeting with the cottage owners on Sunday, Jan 26, which included spokespeople from the federation, along with a pair of experts to explain the problem the smallmouth bass pose to trout

and salmon stocks and recount past usage of rotenone. The meeting lasted approximately four hours, but Foster said the cottage owners left unconvinced the use of rotenone was the best solution to the problem. Since then, she said, their misgivings have only grown. Crabbe said the proponents of the project will try to provide answers to Foster and the others, but emphasized the project won’t be carried out without the backing of the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans and the provincial Department of Environment and Local Government. At the Jan. 26 meeting, ASF manager Mark Hambrook offered a brief timeline of the growing smallmouth bass threat to Miramichi salmon stocks, saying the invasive species appeared to be illegally introduced to Miramichi Lake in 2008. Attempts to eliminate the species kept the population in check, he said, but failed to eradicate it. Following DFO inaction, the ASF and other stakeholders formed a working group in 2015, which produced an expert report in 2017. It submitted the rotenone plan to DFO in 2019. After the report was filed with DFO, smallmouth bass were discovered in the Southwest Miramichi River, said Crabbe, forcing the working group to expand their plan to include a short section of the river. He said the discovery of the fish in the river heightened the urgency to address the situation. During the meeting at

Cottage owners along Miramichi Lake are concerned about the short-term and long-term impact of their pristine body of water. (Submitted photo)

AYR Motor Centre, Steve Maricle, who spent 34 years in fish management in B.C., described the successful use of rotenone throughout the Thompson River drainage system. Also on hand was Brian Finlayson from the California Department of Fish and Game, an expert on the use of rotenone. The experts faced strong pushback from the Miramichi Lake cottage owners. Crabbe said he understands the camp owners’ concerns, and he acknowledges using a system that wipes out most of the fish in the lake is a drastic measure. But, if left unchecked, he said, the smallmouth bass will devastate the salmon and trout populations in the lake and eventually the river. “No one wants to do this, but as Steve Maricle from B.C. indicated, we can stick our head in the sand or draw a line in it. Certainly, all of us choose

the latter,” said Crabbe. Foster said the experts at the AYR Motor Centre meeting and those they talked to later failed to address several issues, both with the past successes and the plan for Miramichi Lake. For example, she said, the working group’s report to DFO for authorization cited a 75 percent success rate. She said it didn’t mention most of those successful efforts required multiple treatments. Foster added the proposal to DFO didn’t include a plan to restock the lake after eradication. She said that came as a surprise to both Maricle and one of the authors of the report commissioned by the working group. She said Michael Van Den Heuvel, a University of Prince Edward Island biologist and co-author of a report, told her without restocking, the lake will never be the same. Van Den Heuvel said the same thing to CBC

during an interview with the broadcaster. Crabbe said the ASF and other members of the working group are environmentalists at heart and want only what’s best for nature. “This is not a mine or hydro dam, projects that have a negative effect on biodiversity and the environment,” he said. “This is a direct conservation action in service of the environment and native species.” Foster also pointed out the working group’s report failed to mention the lake is the source of water for some of the cottage owners. While rotenone is described as a natural product and will disappear from the water within days or a week, the active product makes up only five percent of Noxfish II. The rest, she said, consists primarily of petrochemicals. DFO has still not provided authorization on

the modified plan, which included a portion of the river. Meanwhile, the Department of Environment and Local Government has decided, much to the cottage owners’ chagrin that no environmental impact assessment (EIA) is needed, leaving the decision in DFO’s hands. In an email to the River Valley Sun, a spokesperson for the environment department said Noxfish II is approved for use by Health Canada and the plan was reviewed by the EIA technical review committee. “It was determined that the proposed lake eradication project would result in a net benefit to the two species at risk American Eel and Atlantic Salmon – which are present in Miramichi Lake,” the spokesperson stated. She added the department is now waiting for the project modification before any further decisions are made.

New Homes and Net Zero Session Wednesday, February 19 at NBCC Woodstock

THESE ARE FREE SESSIONS, BUT PLEASE PRE-REGISTER: Call 506-459-7219 ext 200 or email: nbhome2@nb.aibn.com The Canadian Home Builders’ Association New Brunswick with funding from the New Brunswick Environmental Trust Fund is pleased to offer FREE information sessions to increase your knowledge on methods and products used to build and renovate today’s most energy efficient and environmentally friendly homes.

Visit chapelstreeteditions.com for a list of sales locations.

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA

Premier hits the trail to promote winter tourism

New development announced for Mount Carleton Park By Jim Dumville

ew Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs hit the trail in Woodstock Monday morning, Jan. 20, on a three-day trek to showcase the province as a 12-month tourism mecca. Joining the premier on the trip along the Northern Odyssey Trails through northern New Brunswick was Robert Gauvin, N.B. Minister of Tourism, Heritage and Culture, other government officials and representatives of provincial and national snowmobile organizations. Higgs, an experienced snowmobiler, said the tour will serve as both an enjoyable getaway for himself and a chance to promote the vast potential of winter tourism in the province. He said the tour, which began in Woodstock, was

set to take them along a popular section of New Brunswick’s vast snowmobile trail network, including visits to Edmundston, St. Quentin, Mount Carleton, Campbellton and Bathurst. A highlight of the tour included an announcement on Jan. 22, in which the premier and Minister Gauvin outlined plans to build a new multi-functional lodge and a fuelling station for snowmobiles at Mount Carleton Provincial Park. “With its above-average snowfall, breathtaking landscapes and worldclass trails, New Brunswick offers many extraordinary winter experiences to residents and to visitors from around the world,” Higgs said during the announcement. He said a fueling sta-

tion and new lodge will attract more people to the area and strengthen New Brunswick’s draw as a winter tourism destination. Gauvin said the lodge will provide a year-round gathering spot for visitors using the park for hiking, snowshoeing, skating or camping. “Mount Carleton Provincial Park will not only offer well-maintained trails for everyone and a strategic place to buy fuel for snowmobilers but will also contribute to our efforts to make New Brunswick a first-choice tourist destination for all seasons,” said Gauvin. The government also announced Woodstock First Nation business, Maliseet Fuels, will operate the fueling station, noting it was the successful

proponent following the completion of a public request for proposals process. Government officials said an estimated $90 million is spent on snowmobile tourism in the province annually. Tyler Campbell, communication director for the Executive Council Office, said those figures come from a recently completed economic impact study which will be released to the public shortly. Working with Maine and Quebec, explained Higgs, the province can build on those numbers. Gauvin said the province is working with the New Brunswick Federation of Snowmobile Clubs and others to improve access to business generated by snowmobilers. “We’re meeting with

mayors and local councils,” he said. In addition, Gauvin said, the tour also provided a chance to thank the hundreds of volunteers who maintain the trails and promote the snowmobiling industry in the province. He said people travel from many areas outside the province to take advantage of New Brunswick’s great snowmobiling conditions. While Nova Scotia is enjoying good snow cover this year, that province’s avid snowmobilers often must travel to find suitable conditions to enjoy the sport. Gauvin said northern New Brunswick seldom disappoints in that regard. Ross Antworth and Scott Ralston, the New Brunswick federation’s general manager and president respectively, along with Brad Mann of the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations, served as guides for the three-day tour. Antworth said the 49

snowmobile clubs in the province maintain more than 8,300 kilometres of trails, noting the sport offers an opportunity for “real growth.” With most of the trail system in place, he said, the challenge is to “stay sustainable.” Antworth said working with Quebec, where the snowmobiling industry is strong, offers vast potential for the New Brunswick industry. He said Quebec snowmobilers have easy access to New Brunswick trails at Edmundston and Campbellton. Ralston said the tour provided the federation with a great opportunity to showcase “a great asset” for New Brunswick tourism. “Our trails are second to none in the country,” he said. Ralston said the federation hosts a similar tour each year, although this year they turned the normal one-day trek into a three-day event.

Support the Woodstock Volunteer Fire Department 50/50 Lotto Your participation allows us to buy the best equipment to help keep you safe!

N.B. Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister Robert Gauvin and Premier Blaine Higgs prepare to begin their snowmobile tour in Woodstock. (Jim Dumville photo)

PURCHASE TICKETS AT Murray’s Irving, Connell Road Kojax Petro Canada Brennan’s Home Hardware

Weekly Jackpot over $5,000! Thank you for your support!

THANK YOU

We would like to thank everyone who packed a shoebox for the 2019 season. Here are the numbers:

Woodstock, Nackawic, Grand Falls: 1,662 Canada: 490,471 Worldwide: 10.5 million

Thank you for making an eternal impact on a child’s life! A snowmobile tour, including New Brunswick Premier Blaine HIggs and Tourism, Heritage and Culture Minister Robert Gauvin hit the trail in Woodstock on Jan. 20. (Jim Dumville photo)

Sincerely, Woodstock Operation Christmas Child Team

POTPOURRI

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

A Roundup of Interesting Photos and Events

Fun and fundraising at the curling club Sixteen teams hit the ice in Woodstock’s Curl for Cancer

Story and photos by Jim Dumville

urlers gathered for a day of fun and fundraising at the Woodstock Golf and Curling Club on Saturday, Feb. 8 during the 2020 Woodstock Manulife Securities Curl for Cancer. A winter snowstorm forced the cancellation of Friday’s planned activities, explained Beth MacLeod, one of the event organizers, but spirits were high when the teams took to the ice on Saturday morning. She said organizers had to condense the schedule, originally slated to start at 7 p.m. Friday evening, into a single day. She said the delay didn’t seem to hinder support or enjoyment of the annual event. Nor did it hurt the fundraising effort. MacLeod said the Curl for Cancer event raised more than $16,600 towards the battle against cancer. “It’s a fundraiser, but it’s all about fun,” said MacLeod, who was a member of Three Sheets to the Wind, one of the 16 teams registered to participate. She said the 16 teams is up from 14 the year before, adding that organizers, with the support of sponsors and participants, want to see the fundraising event for the Canadian Cancer Society continue to grow each year. Greg MacPherson of Manulife Securities, who

has been the event’s main sponsor for the past several years, said Curl for Cancer continues to draw strong corporate support in the area. Despite Friday’s winter storm only one team failed to make it to the event on Saturday, MacLeod and MacPherson noted, but the missing team had a great excuse. “The team of snowplow operators couldn’t make it,” said MacLeod. MacPherson said there were plenty of curlers in attendance to fill the slot on the schedule. In addition to the fun on the ice, participants and visitors enjoyed food, drink and live entertainment. The winning team for the event was MacLeod’s Three Sheets to the Wind foursome which included Adam MacDonald, Rebecca Shave and Graham Shave. Janet Clark took home the award as the top individual fundraiser, while her team the Jolly Jellystones, which included Evelyn Clark, Deb Rae and Gale Rae, was named top fundraising team. MacLeod said the funds raised surpassed their goal of $15,000. “We truly appreciate all the support of all donors to make this happen,” she said. “We had a great weekend and hope to have continued success next year.”

Ashley Farrell and Haley Simonds of the McCain Spud Sweepers share a laugh during Saturday afternoon action.

Juliet Brennan, centre, joins Ironwood Homes teammates Katie Brennan and Andrew Saunders for a framed photo.

Beth MacLeod with ‘Three Sheets to the Wind’, from left, Adam MacDonald, MacLeod, Rebecca and Graham Shave.

Martha Graham skips the Finders Sweepers team, which included Jordan Graham, Ryan Schultz and Colin Kelly.

The McCain Spud Sweepers, from left, Ashley Farrell, Haley Simonds, Sarah Taylor and ‘Super Fry’ Ashley Hayter.

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

The Best is the LEAST we can do!

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First impressions of Hospitality Town

My Thoughts Exactly By Jim Dumville

hen I arrived in Woodstock in the early summer of 1992, I discovered a nice small town but, truthfully, didn’t immediately see anything special. To be honest, it was my second trip to what at the time called itself Hospitality Town and my interest was anything but that of a tourist. My only other trip to Woodstock was a quick visit to NBCC Woodstock to audition for the radio journalism program. While accepted, I opted for print journalism. The program actually offered those options at the time. I returned to Woodstock in early June for one reason only, to find a place to live for the next two years while I made my career-changing gambit. Arriving late in the afternoon, I checked into the Wandlyn Inn with plans to study the local classifieds and make phone calls in search of an inexpensive apartment where I could hang my hat for a couple of years. Even the apartment hunt didn’t take me on an extensive tour of the town. When I mentioned to a motel staff member I was

in search of a place to live she introduced me to a man named Steven Rose, who just happened to be in the building at the time. Perhaps it was fate, but most likely coincidence. Early the next morning Rose, who with brother Joel owned SJR Enterprises, showed me a small apartment in an old converted house on Broadway. It wasn’t the Taj Mahal, but it proved A1. Well, it did if the A stood for available and affordable. With my new home secured, I hit the road back to Moncton, only to return to Woodstock in August to move into the apartment. The husband of my cousin, who said he made a few visits to Woodstock in the past, volunteered to help me move. Again, the visit was short and limited. We unloaded the van, set up the apartment as best we could then headed out of town. I told my helper, Mike, I’d buy him lunch if he knew of a restaurant of choice in Woodstock. Mike said he once ate at a place called Burger Junction but wasn’t exactly sure where it was located. He remembered it being on a long street running between Main Street to the Trans Canada Highway. Without a map of Woodstock, and long before GPS, smartphones or easy access to the Internet, we headed up Main Street. We finally saw the sign which pointed us towards the highway. Unfortunately, we were on the road to Jacksontown, not Burger Junction. Once we hit the highway, we decided to head back to Moncton and find a place to eat on the way. If memory serves me correctly, I had my first of many meals at Wry’s Irving in Bull’s Creek. On Labour Day weekend of 1992, in preparation for my new adventures in journalism, I finally became a permanent resident of Woodstock. It was only at this point I really began to study what kind of

(Town of Woodstock photo)

town I would call home. With a somewhat picturesque setting at the junction of two rivers and a historic ambiance in the downtown core, I saw a hint of potential, but the derelict buildings on the south side of the bridge and a mostly unkept shoreline along the Meduxnekeag River showed little sign of efforts to realize that potential. However, as my love for my new home grew I began to witness significant growth throughout the town. I arrived in time to witness the construction of the new Carleton Civic Centre and watched the business district along Connell Street begin to expand. I saw the arrival of fast-food chains and the expansion of major supermarkets and other large retailers. I also welcomed the new focus on beautifying Woodstock’s gem, it’s downtown. The creation of the greenway along the Meduxneakeag, complete with its well-maintained trails and other upgrades, proved more than a facelift. It was the beginning of a complete re-imagination of what downtown Woodstock could be. Unfortunately, the makeover stalled somewhat over the past decade as the downtown lost two major structures, while businesses, such as the liquor store and

others, moved or closed. On the positive side, the newly vacant lots provide room for development and imagination. The reflections of my early impressions of Woodstock were a result of covering the story on the near completion of the town’s 10-year-plan. I know the mayor, council, staff and consultants envision a great future for New Brunswick’s First Town. I’m also confident their vision or that of those who follow will be realized. I foresee a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly downtown core with a newly upgraded town square, new boutique-style businesses and a healthy mix of residential, commercial and retail development. The key will be to build partnerships with the private sector to ensure building a new downtown can move forward. Council must set and enforce the rules, but ensure those rules don’t become roadblocks to development. My first impressions of Woodstock were not remarkable, but the people and growth I have witnessed since then certainly are remarkable. Jim Dumville is a resident of Woodstock, a passionate journalist, and the managing editor of the River Valley Sun.

Municipal engagement and televised council meetings

My Big Fat Life By Theresa Blackburn

y father was an engaged member of his community. He followed all levels of politics, worked on provincial and municipal campaigns, and before he died, lamented about not running for a municipal seat. He taught me that civic engagement is crucial to a community’s survival. He also taught me, by example, that one should not fear being disliked in your quest to serve your community well. In 2008, less than two years after moving to Woodstock, I ran for a seat on town council. I knocked on doors, did call outs, chatted with people at the post office and the local coffee shops, and won. I did this after spending nearly a year and a half attending council meetings. Often, I was the only person in the gallery.

Sometimes I did have company, but it wasn’t often. If something controversial was being discussed, or someone wanted to see if a variance they applied for was going to be granted, I might find a few folks seated beside me. Many people within communities up and down the river valley don’t wholly understand what town and village councils do. That’s not entirely their fault. Many councils don’t do a great job of communicating with the people they serve. Many large city councils across Canada have adopted an open door/open council policy through the broadcasting of meetings on local cable stations or online. Few towns and village councils here have embraced that approach. Some municipal councillors I’ve spoken with at the annual Union of Municipalities New Brunswick meetings have said they fear upsetting or offending people. Others worry about optics; some are concerned they may say something inappropriate. Many are missing the point. In New Brunswick, municipal leadership is negatively impacted by the lack of real community engagement. That lack of engagement leads to a lack of understanding, which leads to a lack of candidates, which leads to a lack of gender parity, which can lead to a lack of support for large projects. And all of this leads to apathy, which impacts voter turnout. Engagement needs to start at a very basic level – letting people see WHAT we do.

I believe we need to embrace the broadcasting of council sessions, so people have the chance to view, for themselves, the issues that councils deal with – the issues that impact them directly. Few people understand the processes of bylaw amendments, rezoning applications, and capital budgets. Even fewer understand the Municipalities Act that governs us, tendering rules or the Municipal Capital Borrowing Board’s role in how a town like ours secures loans for infrastructure projects. I knew very little about these things when I started this journey 12 years ago, and I’m still learning. As stewards of the tax dollars provided by the residents of communities, councils have an obligation to not just foster a positive working relationship with multiple levels of government, but to also foster a positive working relationship with the people they serve. That includes educating them on what we do, how we do it, and the ramifications our decisions will have on the things that impact them most, like water, sewer, roads, recreation, fire, police, etc. For 12 years, I’ve seen a few people come to council meetings. I believe it’s time we bring the council meetings to them. It’s time we embrace the 21st century. It’s time to broadcast council sessions, live, on the Internet. We must communicate to residents, and with fewer and fewer news organizations putting resources into covering

local councils, we need to be our own broadcasters. With advances in technology and multiple online platforms, it also means it will take very little of our tax dollars to broadcast council sessions. All you really need is a smartphone, a tripod, and a YouTube channel. I have pushed for our council to embrace this form of communication, but I am still only one of two voices in favour of this kind of initiative. In May, when municipal elections are held across New Brunswick, my name will, again, be on the Woodstock ballot. I hope the new council will be more open to the suggestion of live broadcasts. Until that happens, I encourage you to take the time to take in your local council meetings. If you can’t fit that into your schedule, read local news stories about council meetings and decisions, and visit your local village or town website to read council and committee minutes. Councillors are more effective if they have an engaged public who give them knowledgeable feedback. I believe my town is worth the effort I make in serving the people who live here. I just hope you feel we’re worth your effort in taking the time to understand exactly what we do. Theresa’s big, fat, busy life includes a firefighter husband, three children, a greyhound, a cat, serving on Woodstock Town Council, volunteering, and her family’s growing publishing business.

Future of Service NB location remains unclear Province yet to renew lease at Bicentennial Place By Jim Dumville

he future of Service New Brunswick’s office in downtown Woodstock remains unclear, but a department spokesperson said all voices will be heard before the government makes any decision on a possible relocation of the office. “Absolutely, no decisions have been made,” said Valerie Kilfoil, communications director for Service New Brunswick. Kilfoil told the River Valley Sun the lease expired on its space in Bicentennial Place, located on King Street in the heart of Woodstock’s downtown core. With the lease expired, she said, Service New Brunswick is simply “doing its due diligence” as it considers the best option moving forward. The issue came to light at the Jan. 27 council meeting when a letter from Woodstock Business Improvement Corporation Inc. president John Thompson, raising con-

cerns about the future of Service New Brunswick, was read into the record. In his letter to council, Thompson stressed the importance of the Service New Brunswick offices to the downtown business community and urged the town council to express its concern to the province. Thompson told the River Valley Sun he is not sure who made the decision, or why it was made, but it was made without any consultation with Woodstock officials. While the provincial department has not officially announced any plans to move Service New Brunswick offices Thompson is confident about the accuracy of the information they received that such a plan is under serious consideration. Thompson said the pushback against such a decision is widespread. “Everyone I talk to think this is a terrible idea,” he said. Following the suggestion in Thompson’s letter, the town immediately raised its concerns with

Premier Blaine Higgs and Service New Brunswick Minister Sherry Wilson. Mayor Art Slipp said the minister and Service New Brunswick staff responded quickly to the town’s concerns, travelling to Woodstock on Jan. 31 to meet with himself, Woodstock CAO Ken Anthony, Thompson and Woodstock BIA consultant Trina MacDonald. While he described it as a good meeting, Slipp said, the minister “made no commitment one way or the other.” Both Thompson and Slipp said they were pleased to have the support of Carleton MLA Stewart Fairgrieve, who is also pushing to keep Service New Brunswick offices in downtown Woodstock. Fairgrieve confirmed to the River Valley Sun he strongly supports leaving the offices where they are. He, Slipp and Thompson all expressed the importance of the offices to downtown vitality. They all agreed mov-

ing the government offices would work against the town’s ongoing efforts to revitalize Woodstock’s downtown core. Thompson said the foot traffic created by people using the Sevice New Brunswick is important to downtown businesses. “It’s bringing thousands of people downtown,” he said. Both Thompson and Slipp noted any decision to move the offices out of downtown flies in the face of the Higgs’ government commitments in its recent Speech from the Throne, calling for a focus of revitalizing small towns, including their downtown core. Slipp said the town already witnessed a decrease in downtown traffic when NB Liquor opted to move its store from downtown to the business district near the Trans Canada Highway. While the province has not confirmed or denied it, Thompson said he has credible information that the NB Power building on Connell Street is being

Bicentennial Place in downtown Woodstock is currently home to Service New Brunswick. (Jim Dumville photo)

considered as the new location for Service New Brunswick in Woodstock. When asked about this by the River Valley Sun, Kilfoil, speaking for the department, simply reiterated “absolutely no decisions have been made.” Slipp said, with the support of Thompson, Fairgrieve and others, the town will push hard to convince the provincial government to keep Service New Brunswick downtown. “We have to be vigilant in keeping what we have in the downtown core,” he said. He said the town has taken strides over the past

few decades to upgrade downtown Woodstock and as part of its nearly completed new 10-yearplan is looking towards major investments in the future. He cited plans for a major expenditure to revitalize the town square, which is in desperate need of work. The mayor said the plan is to create a combination of residential, commercial, retail and green space throughout the downtown area. “We’re trying to encourage people to use the waterfront,” he said. He said keeping Service New Brunswick is an important part of that plan.

Florenceville-Bristol reopens ice surface

Repairs completed at Northern Carleton Civic Centre Feb. 8 By Jim Dumville

katers in Florenceville-Bristol can don their blades again. After a long shutdown, ice returned to the Northern Carleton Civic Centre on the morning of Saturday, Feb. 8. Chris Stacey, Florenceville-Bristol director of recreation, said the new chiller was installed in the arena at the end of January and crews took the final steps to get the ice plant up and running. The town announced the reopening date with a media release posted during the final week of January. “A few minor jobs still

have to be completed prior to starting the system but we expect to have the system running by the latest, Friday, Jan 31,” Stacey said in the post. He said the ice slab and building were allowed to cool over the first weekend of February, with the building of ice beginning on Monday, Feb. 3. Stacey said the reopening took place, as planned, on Feb. 8 at 8 a.m. “It’s back up and running,” said Stacey on Monday, Feb. 10. He said crews experienced “no issues” following the reopening, adding ice should be available to users through the rest of

the winter, until its scheduled removal for the season on April 3. Stacey said the ice schedule is back in place after the prolonged and inconvenient break. He said most people don’t realize how much the ice surface is used and needed until it’s not available. Stacey expressed his appreciation to area residents for their understanding. “Thank you all for your patience for our unexpected closure during one of the busiest times of the hockey season,” said Stacey on the Town of Florenceville-Bristol website.

A new decade deserves a NEW Sonata! Stop by our showroom to see the sleek and powerful redesign for yourself!

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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 11

OHW AGM Feb. 25 Election of officers planned

RIVER VALLEY SUN

he Old Home Week Agriculture Exhibition Inc will host its Annual Public General Meeting in Sam’s Room at the AYR Motor Centre on Tuesday, Feb. 25 from 7 to 9 p.m.. The evening agenda will include the election of

officers, an open discussion on events and ideas, as well as suggestions to improve Old Home Week. The 2020 edition of one of the longest-running agricultural fairs in Canada will be Jul. 31 to Aug. 8. The organizing committee is hoping for a good turnout and continued support.

MARCH BREAK ART CAMP “INSPIRED BY FAMOUS ARTISTS” FOR YOUNG ARTISTS IN GRADES 3 - 6 (with possible wiggle-room on ages) TUESDAY MARCH 3RD, WEDNESDAY MARCH 4TH & FRIDAY MARCH 6TH 2020, FROM 10 AM - 12.30 PM AT PERTH-ANDOVER PUBLIC LIBRARY, 642 EAST RIVERSIDE DRIVE Develop your art skills, experiment with materials and techniques, and be inspired with experienced art teacher Brigitte Rivers, BA Hons, PGCE All materials provided, just bring a drink and a snack

* REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY SATURDAY FEBRUARY 29TH * OPTION 1 All three half days packed with creative fun for $45! SHOWING at Atlantic Cinemas in Woodstock on FEB. 22 @ 12:10 PM $5

OPTION 2 $20 per half day Call: 506-323-3120 or email: creative.flow@yahoo.ca thecreativeflow.ca

Celebrate St. Paddy’s Day at the River

on Saturday, March 14 ! Irish Food

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’ TAKONUTOMAKONUWAL

(Maliseet word meaning ‘their stories’)

News and Features from Woodstock First Nation

Wəlastəkokewiyik/Wolastokukewiyik

Mother Tongue By Anatasha Lyons CORRECTION: The last edition of Mother Tongue should have said: had a conversation last month with Andrea Bear-Nicholas, Professor Emerita, at St. Thomas University. She recalled a conversation with Nekwətkok elder and lan-

guage keeper, Henrietta Black. They had been discussing the finer points of the language when Henrietta brought up the word for wave, Təko. It, too, has many variations when pluralized. Something interesting happens, as well. The o in Təkowiyik becomes almost imperceptible.[i] This also happens to other 2-vowel-words when it becomes pluralized.[ii] Henrietta proposed that the meaning of Wəlastəkwiyik could actually be the peaceful river of good waves, and a third option exists in the more archaic form of Wəlastəkokewiyik refers to our people in this

territory. Perhaps this is why some Elders insist on using the older form when referencing our people and cannot seem to explain why the newer form seems wrong to them. It is also worth noting that Elder and Language Keeper Imelda Perley has been using this word for some time, and can be heard in the language app available on iTunes and Google Play Stores. The app is called Wolastoqey Latuwewakon by Essential New Media Studios Inc. If you download the app, under the Identity and Community Section >Where We

Are From> Woodstock Identity> Imelda says Wəlastəkokew….which is the singular version of Wəlastəkokewiyik. I highly recommend this app. Not only is it a great resource, but it’s also been hailed by linguist Dr. Conor Quinn as having near-perfect Wəlastəkwey dialect, which all Wəlastəkokewiyik that want to learn their language should strive to achieve. Anatasha Lyons is a wife, a mother, and Woodstock First Nation’s Language Coordinator. She is involved in language revitalization efforts in Wolastokuk.

Words of the Month People of the Peaceful River of Good Waves Wəlastəkokewiyik/ Wolastokukewiyik Phonetically:

Wool-LUST-tg-GOOK-gew-WEE-ig Sources: For pronunciaton help please visit https://pmportal.org and type in the english using the Newell-Hale alphabet (q used in example above)

WFN member highlighted in national newsletter Charles Paul featured in First in Trades Spotlight RIVER VALLEY SUN

oodstock First Nation’s Charles Paul was higlighted this month in a Government of Canada online mentorship newsletter. First in Trades shared Paul’s journey with trades organizations across Canada. “First in Trades (FIT) is happy to announce its second pairing between Charles Paul and PRO INSUL Ltd./ Insulators Union Local 131. Charles, a member of Woodstock

First Nation, is working out so great in the early months and enjoys working in the shop. Charles is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to start his career as an insulator and he looks forward to working with the skilled journeypersons at Pro Insul and Local 131. Charles is eager to learn and excited to put his shop skills to work on site: “I didn’t even know what insulating was really when Karen called to see if I was interested

but, I love it, I can’t wait to get to work in the morning, it will be exciting to get on site and put my new insulating skills to work at the refinery, and start learning more and more”. Besides a great work ethic, motivation and drive, Charles’ desire to mentor and support other Indigenous youth is also exciting to the FIT team. Join FIT in congratulating Charles; we look forward to supporting him through his Red Seal journey.”

Children write letters

Thank you notes for Carleton Manor RIVER VALLEY SUN

t was a lesson in fine motor skills, printing, and saying thank you. Children from the WFN Child Development Centre rececntly spent some time writing special thank you notes to be delivered to the Carleton Manor. Staff and residents at the manor donated handmade knitted mittens and hats to the children at Christmas. Pictured here is Emmy Lou Gillespie and Chase Tomah working on their printing skills. Parents and children were appreciative of the kind gesture at Christmas. (Jessica Paul photo)

Have news from Woodstock First Nation to share? Email Theresa Blackburn at theresa@rivervalleysun.ca or call 325-2552

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 13

WELLNESS

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

Everything heart

Mere Mortal By Kathy Sherwood-Orser

eart! Take Heart! Heart & Stroke! Matters of the Heart! Heart Health! I Heart You! There are many meanings and topics when February comes along. February is Heart and Stroke Awareness Month, and February has Valentine’s Day. February can be a month that inspires positivity as we look for slightly longer hours of sunlight, somewhat nearer spring. When we are talking matters of the heart, let’s consider how to take care of your heart, heart disease and strokes. The

Heart and Stroke Foundation website is awesome. Taking the risk assessment is an interesting way of being honest with yourself about the issues that might impact your health. My weight, my battle with Type 2 Diabetes and my stress levels are serious factors that could lead to heart-related health issues, but I am happy to report my life expectancy is still well over 90 years old. And I was honest about everything. Your heart is an organ and an important one. It is also a muscle. The heart is about the size of your fist. It is protected by your ribs and breastbone (sternum). It beats about 100,000 times a day. Each beat of your heart pumps blood through a network of arteries and veins. Your heart contracts then relaxes to pump blood through your body. This action is similar to clenching and unclench-

ing your fist. With each beat of your heart, blood is pushed through your arteries, which creates your pulse. Your heart rate is the number of times your heart beats per minute. Normal heart rate varies from person to person, but an average adult resting heart rate is usually about 60 to 100 beats per minute. Mine is measured by my Fitbit and is often about 72 during resting. During exercise, it jumps to 161 – 166 beats per minute. Knowing your heart rate can help you spot health problems. And since I know mine, I can work at improving both the resting and the exercise one. Did you know that up to 80% of premature heart disease and stroke can be prevented through your life habits, such as eating a healthy diet and being physically active? A healthy diet can help lower your risk of heart

disease and stroke by: - improving your cholesterol levels - reducing your blood pressure - helping you manage your body weight - controlling your blood sugar. Canada’s Food Guide recommends eating a variety of healthy foods each day. That includes lots of fruits and vegetables, choosing whole grains and adding good sources of protein, eating a lot less packaged or processed foods and, of course, making water your drink of choice. What about matters of the heart? Dealing with grief, coping with the loss of something loved; a loved one, a loved pet, a job, a relationship, a dream? Loss of your health? These issues matter too. It becomes vital to consider that all of these also impact our emotional

health, which directly affects your physical health. Oddly enough, the same advice as above is recommended. Get a little exercise. Get started by stepping outdoors – even in the cold and take a walk. Not suggesting you have to run a marathon but take a ten-minute walk and increase the time or distance. Find a buddy and head to the track, a fitness class, a yoga class or something new like dancing, martial arts. Find something to laugh about – like a funny movie, a YouTube video that makes you laugh or find a friend or other support to commiserate with. Try something new – an art, a musical instrument, a new restaurant. Trying something new is a distraction, it is forcing your brain to think of something else – hopefully, something positive. Think positive and write

positive things down to review when your heart is too sore to come up with any, write these in a journal and look back once in a while. Go out of your way to do something for someone else. Volunteer somewhere doing something valuable – this can be as simple as helping someone get their groceries in the car – lol – find me, I hate doing that. Doing for others warms our hearts, mends our hearts. And take some time, mending or healing takes time. It can’t be rushed, it can’t be avoided, and it can hurt. Allow yourself the time you need, there is no fixed pattern or set timing, breathe, allow the feelings and feel yourself mending. Kathy Sherwood-Orser is the Western Valley Wellness Network Co-Chair and Wellness Champion who lives with her family in her childhood home in Hartland.

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For details on recycling in our region, visit us at www.rsc12.ca Follow us on Facebook at WVRSC-Waste Management Division Or call us at (506) 245-0161 ext. 201 Western Valley Regional Service Commission 3143 Main Street Unit 2 Centreville, NB E7K 3E8 (506) 276-3610

Recycle today for a better tomorrow.

WITH YOUR SUPPORT We’ve DONATED $1220 TO SANCTUARY HOUSE FOR OUR FIRST BIRTHDAY !

All funds collected from the congratulatory ads were donated to Sanctuary House, the regional transition home for women that is currently under construction in Woodstock. Thanks to everyone who supported this special RVS birthday promotion!

hanks to our readers and advertisers for a wonderful first year. We can’t do this without your support! Special thanks to those who contributed to these pages so we can contribute to an important community initiative - Sanctuary House. Our commitment to community connection remains our first priority. Thanks for helping us celebrate and give to a community we love.

Ashley Ketch photo.

Sincerely, Jim, Stephen and Theresa

Congratulations on the celebration of your first year of publishing. The River Valley Sun is an asset to our community. Greg and Sarah MacPherson

Congratulations on your first year. The River Valley Sun really is an awesome paper !

Mark and Darcy Culberson Congratulations to the River Valley Sun on a fantastic first year. Thank you for all the great work you’ve done and continue to do !

Matt and Hilary Stockford

Congratulations on a job well done. I love reading your newspaper.

Congratulations on your first year and many more to come !

Happy Birthday! Catherine Davies

Yarn & Fibre Arts Supplies & Classes

Thank you for your team taking an interest in our work in Ghana, West Africa, and for helping to keep us up on current events at home while we are out of the country eight months of the year. We are grateful.

Congratulations on your first birthday ! I like the paper and this cause. Each year I do something to honour my late brother, Sam. This seemed like the perfect opportunity. Here’s to many more years of community connection.

Gordon & Kelly Blakeney

Sally McCarthy

Happy Birthday and congratulations on celebrating one year of publishing the River Valley Sun. Keep up the good work !

Congratulations on your first year of the River Valley Sun !

The Andow Family

Refer a grad in need:

Congratulations to the River Valley Sun team on their first anniversary. Keep up the good work.

John and Darla Slipp

NS ATIO R! L U T RA EA CONG R FIRST Y U O ON Y

Where the Wildflowers Grow Gallery, Perth-Andover

EASTWOOD Play & Learn Woodstock

Congratulations to Theresa and her team on their one year anniversary of the River Valley Sun !

The Kuwertz Family

Cinderella’s Closet RIVER VALLEY cinderellasclosetrivervalley@gmail.com

Congratulations on your first year !

Scott Montgomery, Owner - CALL 612-3001

Congratulations to the team behind the headlines on a very successful first year. Thank you for all that you do, and we wish you continued success !

Congratulations on your first successful year ! Here’s to many more !

Congratulations to River Valley Sun for a great first year and an informative newspaper ! I am very happy to support Sanctuary House.

Congratulations on your one year anniversary ! Thanks for using this occasion to give to a worthy cause!

Thompson Real Estate

Colin Craig, Real Estate Agent

The Antworth Family

“Frisbee” Rob McLeod, Motivational Speaker

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 15

SUNNY-SIDE RVS Crossword #13 Name this...

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

Did you KNOW?

RVS Crossword #13 NAME THIS... 1

Find the answer key to your LOCAL crossword at rivervalleysun.ca

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

* Classical music helps plants grow faster. * Singing in a group causes your body to release hormones that boost your mood. * None of the members of the band The Beatles knew how to read or write music. * Cows produce more milk when listening to slow music.

RVS TONGUE TWISTER

Mary and Marlee made magnificently marvelous marble cake in Meductic.

7 8

CARLETON COUNTY

Colloquialisms

DOWN: 1. Original Maliseet name for what English colonists called the St. John River. 3. New Brunswick’s Provincial Bird is the blackcapped _____. Down: 8. Finish Nackawic’s slogan: “Puts you on the __. ACROSS: 1. Original Maliseet name for what English 2. Province to the northwest of New Brunswick. colonists called the Saint John River. 4. Furled green vegetable harvested in spring. 3. New Brunswick’s Provincial bird is the Black-capped __. 8. Finish the Town of Nackawic’s slogan: “Puts you on the __.”

By John Morris mussbee-noyce

\’muhs-bee-’noys\ – interjection 5. Original name for Florenceville. (2 words) A rhetorical statement expressing awe and humility at some 6. Tappan Adney is credited with saving the art unimaginably luxurious item or activity, lit.,“[it] must be nice.” of building canoes from this material.(2 words) The term usually implies either some degree of jealousy on the 7. Last name of the man Hartland is named for. part of the speaker, or the shameful decadence of the subject, 9.Across: Name of Jr. A. hockey team that played in or both; “Buddy up the road just got himself a brand-new elecWoodstock from 2000 to 2018. 2. Province to the northwest of New Brunswick. tric garadge door opener... mussbee-noyce.” 10. Demonym or name used for residents of 4. Furled green vegetable harvested in the Meductic. Hear this word pronounced at www.dooryard.ca. spring. 5. Original name for Florenceville. (2 words) 6. Tappan Adney is credited with saving the art of building canoes from this material. 7. Last name of the Town of Hartland’s namesake. 9. Name of the junior “A” hockey team that played in Woodstock from 2000-2018. 10. Demonym for the residents of Meductic.

Happy First Anniversary to the River Valley Sun! Friends near and far are happy to see your paper become a success !



Solstice Supply and Design, Woodstock

Simonne Power One Colour at a Time simdokare@gmail.com 506-328-7552

Council, myself and the whole of Hartland are proud to be part of your community ! Congratulations and here’s to many more years of enjoyment.

Darrin Foster Mayor of Hartland

Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator

Congratulations on your first year of business ! Thank you for all you do for our community.

Congratulations on your first year !

Congratulations on first year of the River Valley Sun newspaper ! Carleton County needed this paper ! The region is so fortunate to have your vision and talent.

Michelle and Kevin Talbot Wee College, Moncton

Marty’s Mobile Lawn Mower Repair Service

Congratulations on one year of publishing the River Valley Sun! We love the paper!

Richard and Lynda Markey

So pleased to see you accomplishing great things ! Congratulations on your anniversary ! Brenda Pike Step Wise Foot Care stepwisepodiatry17@gmail.com

Congratulations from your Woodstock High School Lady Thunder Hockey ‘Family’ - thanks for supporting local athletes !

Congratulations to the River Valley Sun on your First Anniversary ! Carol (Coffin) Norsworthy Maine

Congratulations on your first year. Wishing you many more. Thank you for your contributions to our community. Brenda Bradley & Steve Morris Congratulations on your first year of publishing ! Carleton 45 RDA

Congratulations on your first year ! Larry Dickinson My New Brunswick www.mynewbrunswick.ca Discover the ‘Picture Province’ with us!

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

Florenceville-Bristol

Centreville

Join Curl for Cancer The Florenceville Curling Club will host its annual Curl for Cancer on Feb. 28 and 29. Deadline to register is Feb. 21. Forms available at Scotiabank, Town of Florenceville-Bristol, Florenceville Curling Club or at florencevillecurling@gmail.com. Enter as a team or go solo. Sponsored by The Co-Operators. Lunch served by Lions Club on Saturday. Prizes for top individual fundraiser, top fundraising team, and top curling team.

Open gym at CCS The Cougar Kittens Early Childhood Development Centre will host a Family Open Gym Night at Centreville Community School on Feb. 28, from 6 to 8 p.m.

Learn about radon gas David Hunter is offering a free public information session at the community hall located at 8696 Main Street in Florenceville-Bristol on Feb. 18 to provide facts about the dangers of radon gas. The session, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., will explain how to find out if you have too much radon gas in your home, and how to fix it if you do. Conflict Management A Conflict Management in the Workplace workshop will be held on Feb. 28, from 9 a.m. to noon at the town hall. The half-day workshop will offer tips and tools to manage conflict in the workplace early and effectively. The cost for this workshop is $40. More information is available online at tourism@florencevillebristol.ca. Register at https://bit.ly/32XafdC. Summer student jobs Florenceville-Bristol is now accepting applications for summer student employment. Applications are being accepted for positions in recreation, tourism, ground maintenance, as well as lifeguard and pool staff. To find out more, or learn about the application deadlines (there are multiple), please visit the Town of Florenceville-Bristol’s website at www.florencevillebristol.ca/jobopportunities

Hartland Snowshoe poker rally The Triple C Recreation Centre at 817 Rockland Road in Rockland will host a snowshoe poker rally on Saturday, March 7, from 4 to 9 p.m. Prizes will be handed out. There will be a fire at the halfway point on the trail. Cost is $5 for adults and free for children under 12. A hot lunch is included. Contact 357-4884 for more information. March Break activities Hartland Recreation will host March Break activities at the Hartland Arena on March 2 and 3. Sports activities, such as curling, broomball, skating, sliding and more will be featured on March 2. Crafts will be the focus for March 3, with multiple crafts available, along with skating and sliding. The events are open to children between kindergarten and Grade 5. The cost is $10, with snacks provided. Contact tanya. hawkes@townofhartland. com to register your child.

Woodstock Vagina Monologues The McCain Community Theatre at the Woodstock High School will host the Vagina Monologues on Friday, Feb. 21, from 7 to 9 p.m. The night of entertainment and fun, which touches on some serious issues, is designed to raise awareness about the abuse of women. Funds raised will go to Connecting for Life. *This is an ADULT ONLY event. Bluegrass jam session The newly formed River Valley Bluegrass Co-Op will host a bluegrass jam session on Sunday, Feb. 16, at 1:30 p.m. at the

(506) 392-6763

florencevillebristol.ca

Owner Robert Tappin

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Ask about our special rates for seniors, notfor-profit organizations and religious groups. 388 McKenna Road, Newburg Mon to Fri 8:30 to 5 pm and by appointment tapp.techit@gmail.com (506) 612-0064 Find us on Facebook: TappTechPC

Masonic Hall in Upper Woodstock. Anyone with an instrument who wants to play bluegrass is invited to attend. Audience members are also welcome. Admission by donation. Memberships for the Bluegrass Co-Op are $10 and will be available at the jam. For more information, contact Stu at 277-6301. Shrove Tuesday Pancakes The Anglican Parish of Woodstock will host its annual St. Luke’s Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper from 4 to 6:30 p.m. on Feb. 25 at St. Luke’s Hall at 104 Church Street. Legion heritage event The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 11 in Woodstock will host a heritage night on Feb. 27 from 7 to 9 p.m. Come listen to members of your community present photos, displays and interesting tales about Canadian heritage they have experienced and learn. Admission is free. Stick Curling Championships Curlers from across the Maritime Provinces will be at the Woodstock Golf and Curling Club on the weekend of March 13 to 15 for the Maritime Stick Curling Championships. Action will take place from 10 a.m. to

Let us know what’s going on ! Email details to jim@ rivervalleysun.ca REMEMBER: WE CAN’T SHARE IT IF WE DON’T KNOW ABOUT IT !

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

5 p.m. each day as teams compete to determine the Maritime Stick Curling champions. The curling clubs two view areas will be open to the public. Stop by and see what stick curling is all about!

Nackawic Family Day Fun Nackawic will host its Family Fun Day on Monday, Feb.17, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Enjoy snowshoeing, skating, sliding and curling to bowling, card games, face painting and storytime. Country Jamboree Enjoy an evening of oldtime country music on Saturday, Feb. 29 at the Nackawic Lions Club. The Country Jamboree will feature live music from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Admission is by donation with all profits going to support the IWK Children’s Hospital in Halifax.

Free tax clinic Tax experts will on hand to help low-income families, seniors and students who earn under $40,000 annually, prepare their tax returns. Starting, Monday, March 9, the clinic will run every Monday and Wednesday from 9 a.m to 3:30 p.m. Call the Nackawic town office at 575-2241 to book an appointment. Hiking in Nackawic The Nackawic Happy Healthy Hikers, a small group of enthusiasts, meet weekly or twice a week depending on interest and weather, to hike or snowshoe to various outdoor retreats in the area. Nominate a Volunteer Do you know a volunteer who deserves recognition? The Nackawic and Area Wellness Group seeks nominations. Drop them to the box at MY Gym in the Nackawic Mall. Each month, a name is drawn at the Senior’s Dinner and a

certificate and a free bulk bag are awarded to the deserving volunteer. GED Program The Western Valley Adult Literacy Association sponsors a 12 -month program for citizens in Nackawic and surrounding area who did not complete their high school program. Sessions are held at the Kirk Untied Church and students interact with the seniors at the monthly lunches. Anyone can make a nomination.

Juniper Breakfast and Music Enjoy breakfast at the Juniper Community Centre Saturdays from 8 to 11 a.m. at 267 Juniper Road. Stay for an afternoon of music with talented Carleton County musicians on Saturday, Feb. 29, from 2 to 4 p.m. Admission by donation. 50-50 tickets, door prizes and a delicious intermission lunch will be served. Contributions welcomed.

Hairraiser678 HAS MOVED! Mary Ann Walker and her Hairraiser team (Lindsay Hallihan, Janna Walker, and Melissa Leighton) are now part of CD Hairwaves in the Connell Plaza in Woodstock!

(506) 325-9555 Same number, same great service!

Let the Music Move You! MONDAY County Connections at the Woodstock ‘Y’ @ 7 p.m. TUESDAY Carleton County Fiddlers at the AYR Motor Centre @ 6:45 p.m. Music at the Oakfield (Oakfield, ME) Community Center @ 7 p.m. Atlantic WEDNESDAY Music at the Millville Legion @ 7 p.m. Evening Fiddlers at St. James United, Andover @ 7 p.m. Music at the Littleton Snowmobile Club (Littleton, ME) @ 7 p.m. Atlantic THURSDAY Music on the Monquart at the Bath Knights of Columbus Hall @ 7 p.m. SATURDAY Music at Triple ‘C’ Centre on Rockland Road @ 7 p.m. every other week Music at the Argyle Hall @ 7 p.m. the first Saturday of each month Nackawic Lions Club Dance at 7 p.m. the last Saturday of each month If you have music events to share, please email theresa@rivervalleysun.ca

(506) 575-2241 www.nackawic.com

(506) 325-4600

www.town.woodstock.nb.ca

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 17

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DOORYARD

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS

Volunteering at DOORYARD is a thrilling, enriching, educational experience. Our volunteer team makes this festival happen! Join us in creating another stunning summer event at this year’s Dooryard Arts Festival.

REACH OUT: There’s lots to be done! Whether you’re interested in fundraising, working with artists, promoting the festival, providing technical expertise, or joining our allstar on-site team during festival week - we want to hear from you!

email us at: info@dooryardfestival.com

#DOORYARD2020 JULY 16-18 WOODSTOCK, NB

CONNECTION

Celebrating Inclusion, Diversity, and Community

Strategies for Learning

HOMEWORK By Sandra Hanson

hen a child is struggling in school, for whatever reason, many parents find that the resources available within the school are limited at best. Unfortunately, they often do not know where they can turn for help, outside of the school system. Thankfully, we have some excellent private options available locally, one of

whom is Andrea Perry of Strategies for Learning For All Ages. Andrea frequently works with students of all ages who have diagnoses including, but certainly not limited to, autism, ADHD, sensory processing disorder, anxiety, learning disabilities and more. She uses the HANDLE (Holistic Approach to Neuro-Development and Learning Efficiency) method, which is an evidencebased method focused on tapping into neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to change. Initially, she will complete an evaluation aimed at finding the root cause of the challenges your child is facing. Her assessments will look at

all the sensory systems, interhemispheric integration as well as nutrition. Treatment will include a personalized daily program consisting of up to eight, easy to do activities. The activities can easily be incorporated into daily routines, and usually take less than 30 minutes to complete. Andrea reports that patients typically begin seeing improvements within six to eight weeks of consistent practice. Some of the improvements that your child might experience include: Sensory – reduced sensitivity to sensory stimulation, with fewer and/or less severe flare-ups/meltdowns Academics – improve-

MACC Café

Where the world comes together By Melissa Fitzherbert

he smell of freshly brewed coffee fills the room. The café is bustling with chit-chat and laughter — the cappuccino machine gurgles. As new faces gather around the table in this cozy café, people shake hands and introduce themselves. The conversation continues as people get to know one another, catch up and share what’s new in their lives and their communities. Everyone exclaims with cheer when a beloved volunteer enters the room. At the end of the table, two children play a board game as they sip on their

hot chocolate. Someone gets up from their chair with excitement to greet a friend that they haven’t seen in a while. This is MACC Café, where members of the Multicultural Association, clients from all over the world, volunteers and community members meet every other Wednesday morning. Their meeting place is the Creek Village Gallery & Café in Woodstock to enjoy light conversation over a hot cup of coffee. Everyone is welcome, and new faces are always appreciated. At MACC Café, Canadians have the opportunity to meet and welcome

HURRY IN

while inventory lasts!

ment in all realms including reading, handwriting, comprehension, decoding, math skills, memory, organization and sequencing abilities Fine and gross motor skills – an improvement in balance and coordination, hand-eye coordination, muscle tone, kinesthetic memory, motor planning and sports performance Attention – improved focus and concentration through reduced distractibility, hyperactivity and impulsivity Self-expression improved processing and response time, speech articulation, word-finding skills, expression of thoughts and ideas verbally and in writing

Other Improvements can be seen in the realm of reduced anxiety and fears, an increase in confidence, eye contact, social interactions, a reduction in tics, bed-wetting, obsessive/compulsive behaviours, sleep issues and much more. Needless to say, all of these could have a significant positive impact on your child’s school experience. If your child is struggling at home or in school, Andrea offers a complimentary consultation where you can learn more about the process, and decide if you would like to work with her. Discounts and financial assistance can also be ob-

Andrea Perry from Strategies for Learning.

tained through the Neurological Wellness Association. For more information, visit her Facebook page, Andrea Perry – Strategies for Learning for all Ages or call 323-8727. Sandra Hanson is a Centreville wife and mother who homeschools her two children.

2019 scholarships announced

NB Society of Retired Teachers award funds Submitted

those new to our community. For upcoming MACC Café dates, please visit the Multicultural Association of Carleton County Facebook page or call 328-4690. Melissa Fitzherbert is the Community Involvement and Volunteer Coordinator for the Multicultural Association of Carleton County.

BSRT Scholarship and Bursary Committee is pleased to announce that a scholarship valued at $2500.00 has been awarded to Brooklyn Arsenault and a bursary valued at $2500.00 has been awarded to Jesse Williams. Brooklyn Arsenault, a graduate of Minto Memorial High School, is currently attending St. Thomas University where she is enrolled in the third year of the Bachelor of Applied Arts program. Jesse Williams, a graduate of St. Stephen High School, is attending NBCC Saint Andrews where she is enrolled in the second year of the Business Administration Management program.

Brooklyn Arsenault

Jesse Williams

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

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 19

The good, the bad, and the awkward

FINDING ME By Rebecca Dykeman

e’ve all been there. You’re walking down the street and up ahead, you see someone waving at you. You wave back, only to realize the person is, in fact, waving at the person behind you. You’re left with your hand hanging in the air, hoping no one else noticed. Or, maybe you’re at the grocery store, and you think you spot someone you know. You tap them on the shoulder, but when they turn around, you discover they’re actually a stranger. You apologize

for the mistaken identity and leave, cringing. Awkward situations happen to us all, and they’re never comfortable. Even worse is when the memory of the incident replays in your head for days afterwards. Some refer to one’s teenage years as their “awkward years.” My teen years absolutely have been! I would need more than ten fingers to number off all the awkward things I’ve done in the past week. Often, I find that after I’ve had an uncomfortable encounter, I tend to beat myself up over it. I know being hard on myself isn’t helpful, but I find it difficult to stop ruminating on those moments because they make me feel so self-conscious. Trying to distract my brain from those memories doesn’t always work

either. When I try to block out those feelings of embarrassment without processing them first, they manage to creep back into my mind anyway. Recently, I’ve learned something that’s helped me deal with this struggle. I was scrolling through a self-help account on Instagram when I came across a particular post. I don’t remember what it said word-for-word, but it was something to the effect of: “Remember that embarrassing thing you did years ago? No one else is thinking about it because they’re too busy thinking about the embarrassing thing they did.” This quote may sound like quite an obvious statement, but for me, it has been life-changing. It reassures me to realize that no one else remembers the awkward things

I’ve done and that I’m not the only one who experiences these scenarios. It has given me a feeling of freedom and helped me accept myself. Now when a situation leaves me feeling less than at ease, rather than be hard on myself, I try to remember that it’s okay to be awkward sometimes. I find solace in the knowledge that no one else will dwell on my mistakes. In this stage of my journey, I’m learning to embrace the good, the bad, and the awkward. Rebecca Dykeman is a Grade 12 student at Woodstock High School. Last fall she interned with the River Valley Sun through her school’s co-op program. We were happy when she agreed to contin- Everyone has awkward moments. A post from an Instaue her column for the rest of gram account similar to this one helped Rebecca learn to the school year. accept hers. (Rebecca Dykeman photo)

OUR READERSHIP TELLS A GREAT STORY!

We distribute 5,000 newspapers to 76 locations, and collect less than 400 copies when we stock stores with new editions. Thanks for making the River Valley Sun a success! Want to advertise in a well read, ultra-local, community focused newspaper? Call Theresa today - 324-5700.

Activities and Events February/ March Events Saturday, February 15 6 - 8 pm NIGHT SLIDING: Celebrating Frost Festival FREE. The Woodstock Fire Dept. will help us light up the Golf Club hill so everyone can enjoy a night sliding party. Enjoy free hotdogs and hot chocolate, provided by Sobeys. Warm up to a giant bonfire. Event sponsored by Manulife Securities.

their return. Highest hand wins a pair of snowshoes, donated by Canadian Tire-Woodstock. Live entertainment with Ronny Michaud starts at 9:30 pm. Cost: $10. Must be 19+. Bring your snowshoes. A limited number will be available to borrow. Proudly Sponsored by Xplornet. *Another activity will be planned if snow conditions are not favourable.

Monday, February 17 FAMILY DAY HOLIDAY AYR Motor Centre will be closed to allow staff to enjoy time with their families.

Wednesday, February 26 1 - 4 pm and Wednesday, March 11 SENIORS SOCIAL ADULTS ONLY EVENT. Featuring Live Entertainment. Happy Hour in Sam’s Room from 1 - 2 pm. Entertainment by Tom Ryan (Feb 26) and John Cahill & Ellie Sullivan (Mar 11) in the AYR Motor Centre Gallery Room. Cost: $5. Must Register in advance, call 325-4302. Light Refreshments provided.

Thursday, February 20 10 am - noon WESTERN VALLEY 50+ BOWLING The Western Valley Recreation Association invites all those 50+ living in the river valley area to a fun bowling opportunity. Join us at the Woodstock Bowlacade 10 am-Noon. Cost is $5 which includes bowling, shoes and light refreshments. Get out and be active and socialize with friends. Everyone is welcome! Saturday, February 22 8 pm - 1 am SNOWSHOE POKER RALLY ADULT ONLY EVENT. Woodstock Golf & Curling Club. Doors open at 8 pm. Participants snowshoe to marked locations around the golf course and will be given a hand of cards on

Thursday, February 27 9:30 am - 1 pm SNOWSHOE TOUR OF MEDUXNEKEAG NATURE PRESERVE ADULTS ONLY EVENT. Departing AYR Motor Centre at 9:30 am. Cost $15. Includes transportation, snowshoe rental, guided tour. Return to AYR Motor Centre at noon for a lunch, provided by 2nd Home Café and Grill. Pre-registration and prepayment required. *Weather and snow conditions permitting.

Organized by Woodstock Recreation & Community Services. For more information call 325-4671, find us on Facebook, or visit town.woodstock.nb.ca.

INCLUSIVE ACTIVITIES

Inclusive Movement: Mon 10 am - 12 pm & Wed 1 - 3 pm in the Field House. Drop-in fee $2. Inclusive Swim: 3:30 - 4:30 pm. Drop-in fee $4. FREE Inclusive Special-Needs Adult St. Patrick’s Party/Dance: Friday March 13, with DJ John Allen. Refreshments provided.

ADULTS IN MOTION

Active Adults: Mondays 9:30 am-noon. Sam’s Room and Field House. FREE drop-in session to socialize and play dominos, card games, colour, play shuffleboard, or do some carpet bowling. Canteen will be open. Zoomers on the Go: FREE 12-week exercise program for 50 yrs+ on Tuesdays and Fridays starting Jan 28 at the AYR Motor Centre Gallery Room from 10 - 11 am. Peer-led exercises to improve mobility and reduce the risk of falling. Advance registration required. Provided by Horizon Health, Wellness Network and Fitness NB. NEW! Tae Kwon Do: Winter classes - Jan. 21 to May 29. K - Grade 8: Tues & Thurs 6 - 7 pm. Adults (15+) Tues & Thurs 7:15 - 8:45 pm. $40/ month, $6 walkins $60/family. Instructor: Trent Osmond. Boxing Fitness: For all ages and fitness levels. Achieve a greater level of fitness and gain confidence while training at your own level. Every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday 6:30 - 8 pm ($8). 10-punch cards available. Morning person? Try our Wednesday 6 - 7 am class for only $5. Women’s Boxing Fitness: Saturdays 8 - 9:30 am. Benefits for women: effective full-body workout for all ages and stages for muscles and heart. Increases stamina, speed, strength, and coordination. 50+ Aquasize: This fun filled, cardio-resistance, low -impact exercise class gives you a full body workout. Wednesdays 10 - 11 am at our Aquatic Facility. $2 per class. Adult Swim for Health: Tuesdays and Thursdays 2:30 - 3:30 pm. Swim, float, exercise and socialize. Instructors are available for those wanting to learn basic swim skills. Lap Swim: Mon to Fri 6:45 - 8:45 am and 12 - 1 pm; Sun 6:30 - 8 pm; Tue 7:45 - 9 pm; Thu 6:15 - 7:30 pm Free Public Swim: Sponsored by Highlift Auto Services is the first Sunday of every month from 2:30 - 4 pm. Recreational Pickle Ball: Mondays and Wednesdays 6:30 - 8 pm, Tuesdays and Thursdays 1 - 3 pm. Bring your own paddle. Some are available to borrow. All skill levels are welcome. Recreational Badminton: Tuesdays 6 - 9 pm. Bring your own racquet. Some are available to borrow. All skill levels are welcome. Adult and Public Skate: Mon, Wed, Fri 12 - 1 pm; Sat & Sun 3:30 - 5 pm. Tim Hortons Wellness Centre: Various memberships and passes available to meet your needs. Walking Track: FREE! Mon - Fri 5 am -10 pm; Sat & Sun 7 am - 10 pm.

ARTFELT

Arts and Culture News from Western New Brunswick

The kids are okay

ARTiculate

By Victoria Hutt

here’s a particular conversation I’ve heard lately, as if on repeat. Most recently, I was sitting in a waiting room, waiting for an appointment. The small talk quickly turned to passionate concern about thefts in the area. It was early, pre-coffee even! But I wasn’t surprised when the conversation quickly took a turn into “kids these days” territory, with a dash of “no respect” and some “In my day” flavouring.

The concern is understandable; everyone wants to feel safe. It’s unsettling. Everyone wants to feel their belongings are securely locked in their garage. It’s so disappointing when great community programs like community gardens and our local ski trail struggle because of theft and vandalism. But the kids? The kids are okay. In fact, they’re pretty amazing. I once heard a speaker explain this generation as the ‘polite-negotiators.’ She spoke about how world events form commonalities in generations and about a threegeneration link in how you were parented affects your parenting. There is a pendulum swing of either wanting to ‘correct’ the flaws you saw in your own upbringing or defaulting to what is famil-

iar.

This generation is being raised knowing that it’s more effective to discuss things rather than hide issues under the rug. They’re being raised to notice, identify and value their feelings and those of the people around them. They are very good at having empathy. You’re probably wondering what this has to do with my art column. When I lead art programs, it is easy to see that the students who can attend after school paid programs are privileged to do so. They have the resources to pay for the program and travel to it, and the support of people in their life that value it and encourage their attendance. There is another whole group of students I only see during in-school free program-

ming. It is so easy for me to understand why access to art is important when you watch brilliant little eyes notice the world around them. Children practice appreciation and gain pride in themselves when they notice an aptitude for art they didn’t realize they had. The second group is equally as interested in art-making as the first, but often less sure of themselves and often miss out on these opportunities altogether by not being in the right place at the right time. The same can be said for music in schools and a whole host of other excellent but underfunded or understaffed support programs that foster human connection, positive behaviour, interests and goals. These programs are often considered extra and allowed to persist if the

budget sees fit. A friend of mine works in poverty reduction through community development. She often refers to the analogy of ‘catching them upstream’ as what she aims for in her work. She explains that if you keep finding people drowning in the river, you have two choices; you can either struggle continuously to rescue them, or go upstream and find out why they keep falling in. So I asked her what she sees as the major elements at play around the issue of theft. She listed 1) dissonance generally, 2) mental illness fueled addictions, and 3) lack in maternal support (waaaay upstream here). I found it appropriate that the definition of dissonance is musical, a “lack of harmony among musical

notes.” Now, firstly, theft has existed forever. For as long as people have laid claim to things, someone else wanted it too. I would pose, though, that we now have the language needed to address theft as a symptom of an upstream dissonance. The offenders participating in crime, some young and some not-so-young, were once those kids who fell through the cracks. They needed someone to have a longsighted view upstream, rather than a short-sighted look at the bottom line. Victoria Hutt is an artist and freelance graphic designer in Florenceville-Bristol, NB. A former gallery director and curator, Victoria is a NSCAD design graduate and sits on the ArtsNB Board of Directors.

Eleven-year-old painter featured at Creek Village Café and Gallery Kayleigh Foster named Young Artist of the Month

By Jim Dumville

he creations of 11-year-old painter Kayleigh Foster will on display this month at the Creek Village Café and Gallery in Woodstock. Foster of Woodstock is the gallery’s featured Young Artist of the Month. “I love painting,” said the Grade 6 student, who has an older sister and two younger brothers.

“When I am painting I feel at complete peace.” While only 11, Foster has been painting for several years and taking art classes since she was seven years old from artist Nicole Manuel. “She has been so inspiring and always pushes me to do better,” said Foster of her art instructor.

The young painter said her favourite medium is acrylic, adding she enjoys experimenting with colours and blending. In addition to painting, Foster also turns to dance and writing as a means to express her creativity. “I love how art and dance both let me show my personality and express myself,” she said.

Tobique-Mactaquac MP/Député Richard Bragdon 157 Otis Drive Nackawic, NB E6G 1H3

158A Broadway Blvd. Grand Falls, NB E3Z 2J9

1-(800) -671-6160 richard.bragdon@parl.gc.ca

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 21

The importance of re-gifting

RIVERSIDE RAMBLINGS By Carolyn Brown

s we settle into the quiet of winter, I look out my office window here at Riverside Court and watch four deer walking across our entry drive in the freshly fallen snow. Earlier in the day when I was out before light welcomed us, I marvelled at the beauty of the moonlight, which made it look like you were out with millions of diamonds under your feet. Nature is such a marvellous thing. We are blessed. Riverside Court continues to be home to so many wonderful residents who make coming

IN A ‘MANOR’ OF SPEAKING By Angela Acott-Smith with Barbara Long

t Carleton Manor, we are more than a longterm care facility. We are home to 110 seniors who are our friends, family and loved ones. They are our neighbours, and our multi-disciplinary team of professionals strives to deliver excellence in

to work every day a gift in our lives. Respectfully, we recognize that over time we lose some of our residents. Their generous hearts have provided us with not only furnishings but also walkers, wheelchairs and other medical equipment they or their families no longer use or need. We certainly appreciate this gesture of kindness, and we put most everything to the best use possible. Unfortunately, over the last few years, we have accumulated an excess of walkers and other medical health care items. We recently have recognized that the local Red Cross is continually working hard to find enough of this type of equipment to loan out so they can fill the many requests they have from clients up and down the river valley. Reflecting on the generosity of so many to staff

and residents here at Riverside, we decided it was time for us to exhibit the same kindness to our wider community. We contacted the Red Cross, and they were delighted and excited to receive the items we donated to them. We know every piece will find a new home and assist someone else in the area through a difficult time, perhaps adjusting to a modified lifestyle or simply recovering from an illness or surgery. As much as we will forever be grateful to those families who left us items to use, we truly felt these same families would be pleased to know their items are further being used by someone in need versus sitting in our storage area. That being said, we certainly did keep some items here to assist seniors who come to visit others in the house. Carleton County is

care and support services to them at this precious time in their lives. We are proud to be of service, and we are always looking for how we can improve. About a year and a half ago, we held focus groups with a variety of stakeholders to ask this very question. At that time, we were asked to consider starting an Adult Day Program for local area seniors. With the support of our Board of Directors and funding from the Department of Social Development, we implemented a pilot program that offered free activities

and meals to participants to move to the Carleton three days per week. This Manor, so when mom program proved to de- spoke about what a great crease isolation for those place it is, I started tellwho participated as they ing her that some people made new friends here were fortunate enough to at Carleton Manor. Their live there all the time. After receiving the call caregivers also commented on how much they ap- that there was a room for preciated the service both mom, I told her that her for a loved one and them- friends at the Day Centre had called and invited her selves! Barbara Long, daugh- to live there full-time – ter of Bernice Saunders, that they had a place for shared this story of her her. She was so pleased mom’s experience in the about being invited to live there! The next day was program with us. “Mom attended the her regular day for the Adult Day program two program, so we took her days a week in the early things, and she moved months of 2019. Al- in. Having been part of though we had to drive the Adult Day program, from the Hartland area, mom was familiar with the it was a huge help as it staff, venue and programprovided respite from the ming, which removed so constant supervision re- much of the unknown quired by her living in our and fear of a move. We home. She was hesitant were so very thankful to go the first few times for the smooth transition because it was new but from our home to her new soon settled in. Mom re- home at Carleton Manor. ally enjoyed getting to If you would like to know the staff and other learn more about our attendees, making friends Adult Day Program or as per her usual practice. other services offered by The outing seemed to Carleton Manor, please energize Mom, and she call us at 506-325-4373. delighted in telling my sisters of her activities, especially the music when Angela Acott-Smith is the CEO of Carleton Manor in they called. We had mom on the list Woodstock

Barbara Long and her mother, Bernice. (Photo submitted)

known for its generosity, and Riverside Court has experienced this many times over. Still, we also have a big heart and want to give back when the opportunity presents itself. We even had some fun in our re-gifting. We genuinely believe that enjoying our work tends to “spread the cheer,” so to speak. With Riverside Court having two Carolyns on staff, I’ve figured out when James Grant, Riverside’s Maintenance Manager, is referring to me. On the day we gifted items to the Red Cross, he asked, “What do you want?!” We joke that when I hear him say that now, I know he’s referring to me. I can’t thank James and General Manager Brad MacMillan enough. Both were instrumental in helping me make the Red Cross happy.

Carolyn Brown and James Grant load the Riverside Court van with walkers and wheelchairs destined for the Red Cross. (Photos submitted)

I love having fun in my workplace, and like all employees, love when I feel like our workplace is making a difference.

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

GAS THEFT

On Sunday February 2, 2020, at 4:19 AM, Woodstock Police responded to a theft of gas at Broadway Irving, Woodstock, NB. The vehicle involved is described as a new style four door maroon coloured car. The male driver is described as being in his 20’s or 30’s, approximately 6 feet tall, heavy set wearing camouflaged clothing.

ARSON

Woodstock Police are investigating a fire complaint and suspected arson which was reported on Thurs. Nov. 7, 2019 around 9:50 PM on the outside of a residence on Lower Main Street, Woodstock, NB. The fire was quickly put out by a resident however the outside of the building sustained damage.

BREAK, ENTER AND THEFT

Woodstock Police are asking for the public assistance with their investigation into a break, enter and theft. A residence on Houlton Road (near Main Street) in Woodstock, NB, was broken into sometime between Tues. and Wed. Dec. 3 - 4, 2019. Items stolen include copper piping and wiring. If you have any information on any of these criminal acts, contact Crime Stoppers. Remember, you are completely anonymous and your information may provide you a cash award.

REMINDER: The public, particularly school aged children, is reminded NEVER to accept a ride with a complete stranger. Be safe. Check out the Crime of the Week on Facebook: Western NB Crime Stoppers. To provide an anonymous tip call 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)

helped a record number of clients make dreams come true in 2019!

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If you want to see your house here next year, call today! D

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655 Main Street, Woodstock, NB century21allseasonsrealty.ca (506) 325-2500

OFF THE GRID By Darius Shahrokhi

ello February! You know you live in New Brunswick when you’re happy at February’s arrival because that means that spring is only two months away! We’ve turned the corner on short days and the longer days are upon us, finally!

The dawning of... In addition to being an eccentrically short month, February is where Aquarians can be found, mostly. So, in this time of Aquarius, are you hoping for some ground-breaking changes? You know, in keeping with that song by the Fifth Dimension “This is the dawning of the Age of Aquarius” and all. Are you the sort of person to make those changes? The ability to bring about great change is obviously not limited to Aquarians and is shared by all who want to have a go at it. Last month, I said that I would attempt to shine the spotlight on additional

influential individuals and companies and so here they are: Guy Stewart, along with his wife Wendy and their dedicated volunteers, run a charity shop with 100% of the proceeds going to their mission. Ypie Shaver, a music teacher located in Lower Woodstock, teaches violin, viola, and cello to local students who are dedicated to learning how to play. Instruments are made available without cost to assist her young students in their musical growth. She also volunteers her time teaching

her dedicated students of youth string orchestra for their performances at Dooryard festivals. I, myself, am donating anywhere from 10 to 50 per cent of the proceeds from any workshops, events or overnight guest accommodation to charities and organizations whose philosophies are in line with mine. A big thank you to all who go above and beyond to do good for their immediate and global communities. If you have similar stories of individuals or businesses who provide gratuitous services, let

me know and I will help bring recognition to these unsung heroes. If you would like to know how you or your company could offer similar endeavours, contact me. I can either partner with you or connect you to the right individuals. I love unexpected kindness! Here’s hoping that some comes your way today. If not, you

could be the one making someone else’s day! Namaste. Darius Shahrokhi is an inventor, writer, environmentalist, foodie, technology enthusiast, gardener, and photographer. He works as a sustainable living coach and consultant and lives off-grid with his family near Knowlesville.

Ghost of Paul Revere coming to northern Carleton CV Arts Council to host acclaimed Maine band February 22 By Jim Dumville

hether called altcountry, modified bluegrass or holler folk, the Ghost of Paul Revere will bring its foot-stomping music to Florenceville-Bristol on Feb. 22. The Maine-based band will take the stage at Weldon Matthew Theatre at Carleton North High School for a performance hosted by the Carleton Victoria Arts Council. The Saturday, Feb. 22 stop in Florenceville-Bristol is part of the Ghost of Paul Revere eastern tour, which will include concerts in Fredericton on Thursday and Saint John on Friday, before heading to Waterville, Maine on the following Thursday. The formation of The Ghost of Paul Revere dates back to 2011 in Portland, Maine when Max Davis on banjo, Sean McCarthy on bass and Griffin Sherry on guitar joined forces to set off

on a critically acclaimed concert and recording musical career. In 2012 they released an EP titled “North” and followed up in 2014 with their debut album “Believe.” The band released another EP in 2015 called “Field Notes, Vol. 1,” as part of a recording session it won during a performance at the Newport Folk Festival, which headlined such acts as James Taylor and Jason Isbell. With its second full album, titled “Monarch,” the Ghost of Paul Revere expanded its sound to new levels. Sherry, who shares vocals with his bandmates, described the change. “Every other record has just been the three of us in a room with microphones until we got a take we liked,” explained Sherry in a news release at the time. “We approached this one differently. It was

the first time we did a lot of arranging and writing in the studio. We decided we’d worry about learning how to present the songs live after we’d recorded everything instead of the other way around.”

Not only did the album earn critical acclaim, but it led to appearances on such shows as Conan. The Ghost of Paul Revere song “Ballad of the 20th Maine” became the official state ballad of

Maine. Showtime for the Ghost of Paul Revere show is 7:30 p.m., AST. The CV Arts season will continue on Sunday, March 15, with a Sunday-afternoon concert by

The Once, a critically acclaimed group from Newfoundland and Labrador. Popular Nova Scotia folksinger Old Man Luedecke will hit the stage on April 25.

Keep an eye on our sales lot at 245 Route 555 in Bedell for the all-new, futuristic Maple Leaf Cabine -

COMING SOON!

Maple Leaf Homes and Mar-Phi Homes - Together, a winning combination!

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 25

RVS SUNSHINE KID AVONDALE KITCHENS Comparing Counters In kitchens, the countertop is where most of the use and abuse takes place. There is a wide variety of counters on the market, so let’s talk about and compare the most popular ones being used today. POST FORMS Also called “roll tops”, these are the most popular, as well as the least expensive counters. These are available at any kitchen dealer or building center. Post form counters require seams (usually at the corner), and sinks must be above mounted, posing a huge limitation in shapes, particularly if you are trying for an island that has extra size or character to it.

SUNSHINE SMILE: Meet five-and-a-half-month old Lilly-May. Ths happy little girl is the daughter of Kayley Briand and Thomas Kaye. Lilly-May is the apple of her grandparents’ eyes. Granddaughter to Ted and Tammie Kay, Lisa Gullison and Harvey Briand, she also has her great-grandparents wrapped around her little finger. She loves the taste of real baby food, a good giggle, and her fourlegged siblings. Unlike her fur brothers and sisters, she doesn’t like drive-thrus because the car stops moving! (Photo submitted) If you’d like to share your ‘Sunshine Kid’ with readers, send a picture and short biography to theresa@rivervalleysun.ca

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

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

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RURAL ROOTS

Stories About Country Life in Western New Brunswick

Logging camp meals, part two: loggers vs. pies

LIVING HISTORY By Doris Kennedy This is the second in a series on logging and mill work. This is a fictional story about real people and events.

“D

o you see any lights ahead, Eddie?” Charlie asked. They had been walking for over an hour with Eddie, the teamster, who was ahead hanging onto the horse’s tail. It was pitch black with no moon to give them light. They trusted the horse’s instinct to get them back to Smith’s lumber camp. The three-man crew was cold and hungry but had a satisfying and productive day. It was the first time Elwood had used a cross-cut saw. Charlie had gone to Lonnie Jones the night before. Lonnie was the camp filer that filed and set the two-handled cross-cut saws. This was not a simple tool to use. If not done right, you could play your partner out. If you didn’t like your partner, it was a great way to get back at someone. The trick was to pull the saw towards you, but when you pushed it back, you put a little pressure to make it easier for the puller. A simple gesture, but very effective. It was also important to know what grip was preferred when cutting left or right-handed. Charlie was comfortable with both, but he wanted to make

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

sure Elwood was comfortable on the other end of the saw. Lonnie was in the process of filing when young Charlie approached him. Lonnie looked up to see this 16-year-old asking for a cross-cut saw. Lonnie passed him a saw, but Charlie knew he could not use this one. “Was this another test?” Charlie wondered. Again Charlie insisted he would like a long 6-foot saw, as he knew the longer the saw, the faster it cut. They were cutting 12-foot black spruce in the morning. Another saw was shown to Charlie, and he liked that one, but the handles weren’t right. He would need 12-inch handles. Charlie was specific and wouldn’t settle for anything less. He got what he wanted and told Lonnie he would be back in a couple of days to get it filed again. It was just about 6 p.m. when they arrived back at the camp, thanks to their horse. The men were gathering, and the aroma of fresh buns met them at the door. The cookee (the cook’s helper) had set both sides of two long tables 3040 feet each for the 40-50 men. Charlie’s focus went to the centre of the tables. He could not believe the number of pies sitting on the table. They were cooked in 15-16 inch pie plates two and a half inches thick. The pie plates had square sides not rounded like today’s plates. Each pie was cut in four pieces, and a complete pie sat in front of every second man. Lemon, pumpkin, coconut and raisin were the choices. As one can imagine, they all admired their cook. His cookstove had

Painter Randolph H. Nicholson captured life in the logging camps very well. (Photo submitted)

a four-foot cooking area with a large firebox that the cookee kept full. The cooking area was full of heaped pancakes. Like a smoothrunning machine, the men sat down to a feast of pancakes and molasses, beans and back pork and gravy, lots of gravy for the fresh buns. Tea and coffee were served with the pies. In minutes the long day of cooking by Carvel was consumed. His cookee immediately cleared the table, did the dishes and prepared the tables for the hearty breakfast in the morning. He also made sure there was enough cut wood for the stove to begin the cooking process again for the next day. Meals were 6 am, and 6 p.m. and wood lunch boxes of various sizes depending on the size of the logging teams were packed to go to the woods. The lunch would be mostly pork, buns and molasses. Most of the food was kept in a shack located close to the cookhouse. It had meat hooks in the ceiling. The snow was banked

around the shack’s base, so squirrels and mice could not get in. Most other supplies like the bags of flour and sugar and the kegs of molasses were kept in the corner of the cookhouse. Every morning Harry Cunningham, a slight man about 40, and a team of small horses, left the camp. He had a two-wheel cart with a rough plank platform to hold the supplies. He travelled seven miles to the supply shack, loaded and balanced all needed supplies on the cart, then travelled back to the camp. His trek back challenged his balanced load as he travelled two miles to Richardson Gulch, two miles to Beef Hill, around a sharp knoll, and along the trail with the stream at its side. The men made their way back to the bunkhouse where it was storytime, some true some not. There was a radio on the wall in the office, and at 7 p.m., it was time to listen to Don Messer and the Islanders on CBC. Charlie Chamberlain, a lumberjack from Bathurst, was the vo-

calist; the bass player was Julius (Duke) Neilson from Woodstock. One of the crew was a small Italian who played the bones and made amazing music. The cook set the rib bones aside, and the Italian picked what he felt would make the best music and played along with the radio. Two Kinney brothers also played along, one with a guitar and the other with a fiddle. The loggers gathered around the stove, sat on their bunks or the deacon’s benches until the Messer show ended. Other entertainment besides the stories and the radio was when they could convince the father of the Kinney brothers to perform. The father was five feet tall and close to 300 pounds of muscle. He could somersault and do a handspring off the deacon bench. The men also entertained themselves with little contests, going through the broom handle, jumping through the axe handle, and breaking neck contest. This may need an explanation. Both men took two

of their belts and hooked them together. A stick or a line was drawn on the floor, they put the belts behind their neck facing each other and proceeded to try and pull their opponent over the line. Pulling the lazy stick was a common contest in most camps. The stick was a piece of hardwood. The fellas faced each other and put their feet together. With their hands on the stick, they tried to pull each off the floor. Since lights were out at 9 p.m. the men scrambled to get their wool socks, underwear, pants, gloves and jackets hung on the rope lines that were strung near the stove. While there were no lice at this camp, there was also no ventilation, so use your imagination of how that smelled. Doris Kennedy is a retired nurse, writer, and historian. Married with four children and 11 grandchildren, she owned the Covered Bridge B & B in Somerville for years, and is the author of five books.

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 27

What happened to the farmer’s pick-up truck I remember?

ADVENTURES OF AN ACCIDENTAL FARMER By Ellen Culbert-Johnston

’m sure most of you have heard the old farmers’ riddle about the three farmers sitting in a halfton truck. Which farmer was the smartest? The farmer in the middle, because he didn’t have to drive and he didn’t have to get out of the cab and open and close the gates! Well, since moving to Newburg and being dubbed the Accidental Farmer, I’ve come to realize I need a pickup or, as some people call it, a halfton truck. There are wants and needs, as my father Joe Culbert taught me. He’d say, “Now, Ellen – do you just want that item or do you really need it?”

I have used these words of advice numerous times, like when buying boots, jackets, and big items like a new cell phone, or a car. I need a pickup to haul in hay, gather up a load of firewood, get building materials to fix up some of the barns, pick up feed for the cows, pick up a chesterfield... the list goes on. The conclusion that I need a pickup was the easy part. Finding a pickup, well, that’s another story. As my search for a used, standard, two-door pickup began, I became aware not many two-door pickups are for sale or even driven around town. There are king cabs, extended cabs, sports cabs, crew cabs, quad cabs – you name it. Whatever happened to the old two-door half-ton? you know the kind – used on the farm all week, then washed and cleaned up for a trip to town on Saturday? Remember the half-ton that the farmer and man’s best friend would enjoy a ride in, together, with the dog’s ears feeling the

cool breeze as he sniffed the air with the passenger window open? You know what I’m talking about - the farmers’ half-ton where seating arrangements were made in relation to the springs coming through the seat. The way to solve that problem was with a chair cushion, which didn’t match the interior but did make for a softer, more comfortable ride to town. The farmers’ half-tons where, at times, there’d be more hay chaff in the cab than in the farmers’ barn. I can recall sitting in my grandfather’s old red Dodge pickup and noticing how we had gone from pavement to gravel roads by just moving the floor mat and looking down at the floorboards. If the inside of the cab was getting warm, he would open the vent window to let in some cool, country air. While looking to make a big purchase of a used half-ton, I couldn’t help but notice the various lengths of truck beds. They come in five foot,

Ellen stands beside the type of half-ton vehicle she hopes to find to serve as her versatile farm truck. (Cheryl Innes photo)

five foot and a half, five foot and three quarters, six foot, six foot and a half, and there are a few used half-tons with an eight-foot truck bed. The last time I went to pick up building supplies, such as two-by-fours and a few sheets of plywood, they came in eight-foot lengths. Then, there are the

colours of half-tons. They come in Blue Jeans, Magnetic Ruby Red, Oxford White, and Agate Black. What happened to the basic colours, blue, red, white and black? Let’s not forget all the bells and whistles that come on half-tons these days. There are automatic door locks, power windows, satellite radio,

DVD players, and remote starters. In the end, all I need is a basic two-door half-ton, and the search continues.

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

Recalling a 2019 trip to the Sarchfield graves

BEAUTIFUL BUMBLES By Linda McHatten

here is so much history found on the trails where we bumble. I am amazed at the number of cemeteries we have seen in the “middle of nowhere” in places where old settlements and homesteads used to stand. These cemeteries are the only re-

maining evidence of some of the settlements. One, in particular, sparked my interest. The Sarchfield graves are located on the Skedaddle Trail in the Knowlesville area, which before the civil war was called Mapleton. The area became to be known as Skedaddle Ridge after people fled here to escape the American Civil War. The meaning of skedaddle is “to flee in a panic; run away.” Growing up as a little girl, my family were great friends to Sarchfields who lived in Youngs Cove. Little did I know that the Sarchfield graves belonged to the ancestors of

our friends. This fact was pointed out to me by one of our bumbling friends, as they were also his ancestors. Augustine Sarchfield and his one-year-old son settled in this area in the mid-1800s from Ireland, via Nova Scotia. Augustine died in 1881. The Sarchfield graves are located on the #10 NBATV Provincial Trail Systems, not far from Falls Brook Centre and Henderson Rest Area. The cemetery is easily accessible by foot after parking your quad. You will walk down a path after you pass under an arch put in place by the Skedaddle Ridge Trails

People Inc. The grave markers you will see were once wooden. A few years ago, they were replaced by metal ones thanks to Woody Craig of Hartland. There is a logbook there, as well, to sign. Woodworkers have harvested the forest around the gravesite, but, out of respect, have left this area unharmed. Happy Trails folks and only two more months before we can hit the trails! Linda McHatten is a retired LPN who now spends her time nursing her love for the outdoors. She and her husband live in Rosedale and have three grandchildren.

An interesting bumble for the local ATV club last year was a trip to the Sarchfield graves. (Linda McHatten photo)

IN FOCUS

Putting the Spotlight on People in Your Community

Networking session

Tuesday events aim to connect

MERGING PATHS AT CROSSING PATHS: Local business people gather at Crossing Paths Guest House on Main Street in Woodstock for an open-to-all ‘Collaboration Network’ meeting. The group gathers every Tuesday at 9 a.m. These events are open to anyone who wants a place to share ideas or be inspired to start something new. Short visits are welcome, but you can also sit down and have deeper discussions on a variety of topics, including what direction you’d like to see this group go. These are free events with coffee provided by of Speerville Flour Mill. For more information, search Collaboration Network Meeting on Facebook. Pictured are (clockwise) Shaun Albright Kiersten Livingstone, Bridget Keenan, Dean Cummings, and Emily Bannister. (Theresa Blackburn photo)

Zink & Company returns

McCain Theatre hosts concert RIVER VALLEY SUN

oodstock Rotary Club is again proud to sponsor Zink & Company, who are returning to Woodstock with their brand of Bluegrass music for the fourth year. When the audience was asked if they wanted them to return at the end of last year’s show, the answer was a resounding “YES!” Their great melodies and harmonies, along with their instrumental skills and spontaneous humour, have made them a fan favourite wherever they perform. Woodstock is pleased to be included in their tour. Even though Corey has been performing at Dollywood and recently signed with Sound Biscuit Records, he and the band are looking forward to visiting Woodstock again this year. Along with Corey Zink, John Roc, and Dan Menzone, are newcomers David Freeman and Steve Carr. The two lend their outstanding musicianship to this already wonderful group. Corey’s Dad, Ronnie, is making a return as well. Tickets are being sold in Woodstock at Newnham & Slipp Pharmacy, MES Music, the AYR Motor Center, and in Florenceville-Bristol at The Andrew and Laura McCain Library. Tickets are $18 (advance) and $20 at the door.

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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 29

Destination Nackawic

Partners collaborating to improve economic development in community By Jim Dumville

he town of Nackawic is directing money and effort towards a vibrant economic future for the community. Destination Nackawic Economic Development Corporation (DNEDC) was established in March 2019 to provide Nackawic and area with new pathways toward economic development built upon partnership and collaboration involving the private and public sector at all levels of government.

DNEDC members include, from left, Nackawic Mayor Ian Kitchen; Coun. Bob Simpson; engineer Ken Gallagher; Arlene Dore, CFO FMI Group; board chairman Coun. Greg MacFarlane; Matt Fox of FoxCo Funds; Stacey Montgomery Clark, VP Sabian Cymbals; Paul Jack, president of AV Group; and executive director Brent Sanson. Absent from photo was Nackawic CAO Randy Wilson. (Submitted photo)

NB artists’ work on display at McCain Art Gallery Amanda Balestreri and Bernard Quintal featured at ALMAG RIVER VALLEY SUN

ld Tales from Silent Spaces is a retrospective of Amanda Balistreri’s work over the last ten years, including Things That Happened on the Farm, 2010, Mr. Winston’s Room, 2013, Lost Folk and The Haunting from 2019. Rocks and Honoured Guests is a collection of recent works in watercolour by Bernard Quintal that explore the many shapes and colors of rocks, driftwood, seashells and vegetation found on Maritime beaches. The detailed and representational images

are close-up views of the shoreline presented as if we are looking through an imaginary magnifying glass. These paintings will transport you to the oceanside and inspire you to relive the joy of discovery and appreciation of the beauty of our Maritime beaches. The works will be on display from Feb. 8 to Mar. 14. The gallery will host a closing reception on Mar. 14 from 2-4 p.m. The artists will be at the closing and will talk about their work at 2:30 p.m.

Amanda Balistreri’s “The Haunting”

Bernard Quintal’s “Rocking in Advocate Harbour#1

Woodstock to host RCMP Musical Ride

Event to raise funds for Crime Stoppers, DunRoamin’, Carleton County Animal Shelter RIVER VALLEY SUN

he RCMP’s iconic musical ride is coming to Woodstock this summer. In a media release on Tuesday, the Western NB Crime Stoppers, in partnership with DunRoamin’ Stray and Rescue and Carleton County Animal Shelter, announced it will host[ the world renowned RCMP Musical Ride on Sunday, July 5. The event will be held at the Connell Park Grand-

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

stand in Woodstock, with overflow viewing available from the sidehill behind the AYR Motor Centre. The Crime Stopper release said the net proceeds from the event will benefit all three organizations locally. The pre-show and RCMP Musical Ride starts at 2 p.m.. “Witness part of our Canadian tradition since 1876 of 32 scarlet coat-

ed Mounties on majestic black horses performing an intricate show of figures and cavalry drills choreographed to music,” Crime Stoppers said in it’s release. “This once in a lifetime experience will have memories that last a lifetime.” The release explained ticket prices and venues will be announced at a later date

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SPORTS

Highlights and Features of Local Athletes and Teams

Host Thunder capture Bobby Vail Classic title

Woodstock High edges St. Malachy High in championship game By Jim Dumville

ost Woodstock High School Thunder boys capped off an undefeated tournament to capture the 2020 Bobby Vail Classic hockey banner on Feb. 2 at the AYR Motor Centre.

The Thunder edged St. Malachy Memorial High School of Saint John 4-3 in the championship game. The tournament featured eight teams in two

divisions. Joining the host team in the Thunder division were Rothesay Red Hawks, Carleton North Stars and Southern Victoria Vikings. Meanwhile, St. Malachy advanced

out of the Lightning division which also featured the Polyvalente Thomas-Albert Elite of Grand Falls, the Tantramar Titan of Sackville and the Oromocto High Blues.

Woodstock earned the birth in the final by blasting Oromocto 7-0 in the semi-final. In divisional play, the Thunder downed Rothesay 5-2; Carleton North 4-2; and Southern

Vic 5-2. The 8th annual tournament, named in honour of the late coach Bobby Vail, was held over the weekend of Jan. 31 to Feb. 2 at the AYR Motor Centre.

Above: The Woodstock High School Thunder pose for a championship photo after capturing the 8th annual Bobby Vail Classic on Sunday, Feb. 2. Back row, from left, Coach Mike Fletcher, Zander Lunnie, Isaac McLaughlin, Kohen Ketch, Isaac Shaw, Levi Keirstead, Jackson Pirie, Kyle Gallagher, Andrew Watson, Noah Grant and coaches Logan Currie, Derrick O’Leary and Robin McLean. Middle row, from left, Jack Rivington, Jackson Green and Barrett Stephenson. Front row, from left, Zach Bridgeo, Brayden Sheen, Christian Sheen, Jake Mahar, Carson Rideout, Daniel Kirby, David Marcoux and Trainer Luke Bustard. (Shelly Kirby photo)

Special Olympics athletes make a splash

Tim Horton Smile Cookies extra sweet for western region By Jim Dumville

group of Special Olympics Western Valley Region athletes made a splash to close out 2019, as the swim team brought home several medals from a swim meet in Bathurst. Western Valley Region coordinator Debbi Graham said the swim team hit the road on Nov. 23 to compete in the pool against three other regions Capitol, Fundy and Miramichi. Collectively, said Graham, the team brought home six first-place ribbons, four second-place ribbons, and five thirdplace ribbons. She said the swimmers also got five personal best times. Graham said the swimmers’ awards were presented at the AYR Motor Centre pool in late January during the team’s regularly scheduled training. Kyra Anderson, swimming in Division 1, took first place in the 25-metre breast and 25-metre

backstroke, while finishing second in the 50-metre freestyle, 100-metre Individual Medley and 50-metre breast. She also picked up a third place in the 50-metre back. Gloria Livingstone captured a Division 1 first-place ranking in the 25-metre butterfly, with third-place ribbons in the 25-metre breaststroke, 50 freestyle, 25 freestyle, 100 Individual medley and the 50-metre breast. In Division 3, Shelley Parkinson swam to first place in the 50-metre freestyle, 25-metre backstroke and 50-metre backstroke, while earning second in the 25 free. Coach Jenna Bull expressed pride in her team’s accomplishments. “I am very happy with how the team swam at this past meet, she said. “Achieving personal best times is quite challenging, so I am very proud they

From left are members of the Special Olympics Western Valley Region swim team members Gloria Livingstone, Kyra Anderson, Kyley Young, Shelley Parkinson and coach Jenna Bull. (Photo submitted)

were able to push through and swim their best.” In addition to the three medal winners, Bull praised the efforts of Kyley Young, a fourth member of the swim team, who she said is training hard alongside her teammates. Bull said all the athletes are working hard in preparation for their next meet on April 11, in Saint John. Graham said the commitment and funding sup-

port from local businesses, organizations and individuals play an important role in the success of the Special Olympic Western Valley Region program One of those supporters dropped by the Christmas dance party, hosted by Woodstock Recreation, in December to present a donation to Special Olympics. Graham said the dance parties are hosted monthly for people in our

community with intellectual disabilities. She said local Tim Horton franchise owner Ian MacDougall presented a cheque in the amount of $1,515, noting it was part of the proceeds from the restaurant’s Smile Cookie campaign. “We are so grateful for the support and involvement of Ian and his Tim Hortons teams, here locally,” said Graham.

“It is through kind donations, like this one, that we are able to provide our sporting programs, to our Special Olympians, here in our Western Valley Region.” Graham said Tim Hortons is a Platinum sponsoring partner of Special Olympics Canada, and we are fortunate to have been selected as one of the local charities to receive this financial support.

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 31

Looking back at the birth of “NB sporting gem” Warriors won it all at first Final 12 hoop tournament in 1987 By Andrew McCormick

rad Janes of NB Hoop Report (@nbhoopreport) once called the NBIAA High School Basketball Championship Final-12 event as “an N.B. sporting gem.” Who could have predicted the heightened success of this tournament 33 years ago back in 1987, when the first Final 12 was held at the Aitken University Centre at UNB? As a senior for Woodstock High School Warriors that season Chris Kidney, now of Miramichi, said he certainly didn’t see it building to the NB sporting gem it is today. “As a player, it’s something we didn’t even think of. What I remember most is the journey to get to the Aitken Centre. We were the fifth seed and had struggled late in the year. We played Tantramar at our last home game and beat them. They were seeded ahead of us. That win took us to St. Stephen for the regionals. We played Fredericton first and beat them to play the regional final against St. Stephen, beating them on their home court to get to the Aitken Centre.” WHS was coached by Richard Wetmore. No less than arch-rival Carleton North Stars were the opponent to battle it out on the AUC hardwood in the first AA “Final 12” matchup. Kidney sets up the final as he remembers it. “It was no secret they were our biggest rival. There was no love lost between the two teams, that’s for sure. For myself and the seniors on the team, it was our third year playing them and we hated them and they hated us.” Kidney still remembers the first jump ball at centre court. “There was a scrum on the floor to get the loose ball and everyone dove right in to try to get it. It showed the intensity there was between those two teams at the time.” Kidney would go on to score 24 as Woodstock

stretched a 40-36 half-time lead into an 82-68 victory in the Friday night prime-time matchup. Gary Cowper scored 22, Andrew Shaw and Trevor McLean each had 13. “They were a strong team, a lot bigger than we were,” Kidney recalls. “J.R. Devoe was their centre at the time he was a big guy and they had Steven Trafford and Scott Dunlop. They were good.” Devoe would be called for his fourth foul with the score 57-49 with 10:57 left to play. When he returned under three minutes later, the Warriors had extended the lead to 64-49. Devoe would eventually foul out at the 5:55 mark. Devoe potted 12 on the day. Dunlop led the Stars with 21 and Trafford had 17. The victory was sweet for Kidney and crew, capping off a Cinderella run to the title. “We beat the four teams all seeded ahead of us within two and a half weeks.” Chris describes playing for Coach Wetmore. “Richard was a unique coach. He was a motivator, a lot of it was through action, not words. During the regular season, Richard would do the warmup with us just to get himself pumped up. Great guy, I think very highly of him, I still do.” On the girls’ side, the first Final 12 also holds special significance for WHS basketball. Coached by Dave Daye, the topranked Wildcats also claimed their AA crown by beating Tantramar in a 6159 nail biter. The winning basket came with seven seconds remaining on a dish off from Heather McGann into the hands of Lori Beattie, who drained a 10-foot baseline jumper to seal the win. “I thought about it and said to myself this has to go in,” said Beattie at the time. “Oh my God, I can’t believe it, I’m just so happy, it’s excellent.”

The Woodstock High School Thunder Senior boys team celebrates a win over Baie Ste. Anne in the final of the regionals held at WHS on Sunday, Feb. 9, earning a right to host the provincial South West Sectional Feb. 14 and 15. A win will give WHS a familiar berth in the Final 12 championships at Harbour Station on Saturday evening, Feb. 22. (Jim Dumville photo)

The winning basket was two of a game-high 23 for Beattie. Jennifer Brown scored 21, Marlee Wright drained 7, Bev Milbury and McGann each added 4 points. Tournament organizer Rick Cotter reported attendance numbers being more than 5,000 for the very first Final 12 weekend in ‘87. Of note is the fact it was reported 2,000 took in the boys tilt between WHS and Carleton North Friday night. Kidney said the size of the crowd and adjusting to playing in an arena instead of playing in a gym were big adjustments. “We had a shoot around either the day prior or the morning of the final. It was a big change not having a gym wall behind the net.” The Final 12 continued to call the Aitken Center home until Saint John’s Harbour Station won a bid to secure the weekend championships in 2011. The final two seasons at the AUC were played as Final 8 championships, as was the first championship

at Harbour Station in ‘11. In 2012 the NBIAA reverted back to the original format as a Final 12 championship. Since it began 33 years ago, the young men and women from Carleton County schools have made their presence known at the Aitken Centre and Harbour Station, bringing home a combined 53 titles. Woodstock boasts 21 championship banners, Carleton North 15, Hartland 14 and Canterbury 3. The Woodstock Thunder boys coach Scott Jones was a member of the WHS Warrior squad which brought home the championship banner. He has made several more trips to the Final 12 as a coach. After winning the regionals at home on Feb. 9, Jones and the Thunder will host the provincial sectionals on Feb. 14 and 15, with Woodstock being a favourite to advance to Harbour Station on Feb. 21 and 22. The Woodstock girls, who have dominated provincial AA basketball in

recent years, also have a shot at Harbour Station but will have an uphill battle as they head into sectionals as the fourth seed.

Carleton North teams are also still in the running for Final 12 AA berths, as are Hartland and Canterbury in the A level.

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Do we power New Brunswick? Or do New Brunswickers power us? There’s a resilience to New Brunswickers. An optimism we all feel. It is this energy – as much as any other – that is fundamental to our shared success. At NB Power, we work hard every day to provide reliable, safe and sustainable energy for the province we’re proud to call home. We’re optimistic about New Brunswick’s energy future and proud of the people and businesses helping us to make that future a reality.

Fournissons-nous de l’énergie au Nouveau-Brunswick ? Ou est-ce les Néo-Brunswickois qui nous fournissent de l’énergie ? Les Néo-Brunswickois et les Néo-Brunswickoises sont résilients. C’est la force de leur optimisme, entre autres, qui alimente notre succès. Chez Énergie NB, nous déployons d’énormes efforts au quotidien pour fournir de l’énergie sûre, fiable et durable, et ce, dans le but de contribuer à la prospérité d’une province où nous sommes tous fiers d’habiter. Nous sommes optimistes quant à l’avenir de notre province. Nous sommes fiers des gens et des entreprises qui nous aident à rendre l’avenir énergétique plus brillant.