River Valley Sun Jan. 2023 Vol. 5 Iss. 1

From cold to heartwarming

Bath firefighters, community save Christmas

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

What was destined to be a dark and cold Christmas turned out to be heartwarming and uplifting, thanks to the Bath firefighters and the people they serve.

Late in the evening of Dec. 23, the severe winter storm with near hurricane-force winds, which slammed through eastern Canada, arrived in Northern Carleton County. As the power began going down, the Bath Fire Department stepped up.

The storm knocked out power for more than 70,000 N.B. Power customers, with the Bath area among the hardest hit regions.

The Bath Fire Department sprang into action late Friday evening, Dec. 23, responding to calls as the wind knocked down trees on power lines and roadways. By daybreak on Christmas Eve morning, almost all of the department’s coverage area started the day without electricity, meaning in most cases, they faced a cold and uncomfortable day.

In early January, Bath Fire Chief Stephen Armour, Deputy Chief Cory Oakes and Assistant Deputy Al Downey gathered at the fire hall to share their Christmas storm story with the River Valley Sun.

They didn’t look back

in horror about an extended power outage in the heart of winter. They looked back in pride at how their firefighting comrades and the community responded. What was destined to be a gruesome Yuletide became a delightful day that highlighted the season’s spirit.

By Christmas Eve morning, Armour said, he knew NB Power crews would need considerable time to restore the widespread power outages. When he heard in late in the afternoon, estimates ranging as long as Dec. 30 before the restoration of electricity, he knew his department needed to take action to help residents.

He said before 6 p.m. Saturday, he reached out to Oromocto Fire Chief Jody Price, knowing his departments had once used mobile heating units during an extended power outage in his region.

The call paid dividends. With the help of Price, five units arrived in Bath just before midnight on Christmas Eve.

“Peter Kavanaugh of EMO and Randy Stairs from Meductic arranged for a couple more, giving us seven in total,” he said.

Oakes said the department tested one of the units soon after it ar-

rived, helping a man they knew was ill.

After a short or no sleep, Bath firefighters “had their boots on the ground” by 8 a.m. Christmas morning. Divided into teams of three, with half-ton trucks and trailers to haul the heating units secured, Bath firefighters hit the Northern Carleton roads.

Downey said the firefighting team, except for two sick crew members, arrived at the hall without even a call to action.

The heating units worked as the department hoped.

“Most homes could be heated from 45 degrees F to 75 degrees in a half hour,” said Armour.

Over the next two days, they continued their routes, returning to some homes three times.

“We did it systematically,” explained Downey.

Gradually the power began returning, but the units kept rolling until Tuesday, Dec. 27.

Starting early Christmas Eve, Oakes explained, the fire hall became a heating centre, as people dropped by to get warm, have a coffee, get some information or just enjoy the company.

By Christmas morning, Armour began advising people on social media about the heat-

Firefighters gather for Christmas dinner provided by grateful residents after a hard day delivering heat to homes. (Submitted photo)

Serving Perth-Andover to Nackawic

Bath firefighters had seven heating units travelling through the coverage area delivering heat to freezing homes during the Christmas blackout. (Submitted photo)

ing units’ availability and warming centre. Most people already knew what the Bath Fire Department was doing.

The community responded. Not “for” help, but “to” help.

Armour said an entire family, husband, wife and children, arrived Christmas morning to offer support in any way possible. They helped in the kitchen or took on any needed tasks.

Downey said area residents volunteered to

join the crews if needed. Not counting regular calls to respond to downed trees and other emergencies, Oakes said, the approximately 20-member fire team put in 440 hours over four days.

“Those were long days without much or any sleep,” he said.

Still, it is not the efforts of the firefighters that these men will remember forever. They said it was the response of the community which turned disaster into hope.

Downey said people continually showed appreciation in any way

possible as firefighters stood out in the cold, sending heat into their homes.

“All of a sudden, the door opens, and here comes a sweet lady with some peanut butter balls,” he said.

Like the heat flowing into the homes, on Christmas Day, the love poured into the fire hall in the form of food, including complete Christmas dinners, pies and sweets for the entire fire crew and beyond.

“I think I gained 20 pounds,” joked Downey.

Armour said people from Bristol and as far

away as Woodstock arrived at the fire hall with food on Christmas Day.

The community reaction was familiar to Oakes.

He said residents love their fire department. He said more than 500 people would support the firefighters’ fundraising breakfast in the past.

After a forced break from the pandemic, Oakes said, the department plans such a breakfast soon, and he expects a great turnout.

“Our community is our heartbeat,” he said. “That’s who we’re here for.”

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

Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868

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

Law Enforcement

Woodstock Town Police: (506) 325-4601

RCMP, Woodstock area: 325-3000 (For immediate help: 1-888-506-7267)

RCMP, Nackawic area, (Fredericton dispatch): 357-4300 (For immediate help: 1-888-506-1472)

Call 911 in an emergency! Crimestoppers: 1-800-222-8477

Animal Control

Town of Woodstock Police (will dispatch help) 325-4601

York County Officer Randy Casey 459-7831

Rural Areas call the NBSPCA 1-877-722-1522

Help for DRUG ADDICTION

Hope for Wellness Helpline 1-855-242-3310

Offering immediate help to Indigenous peoples across Canada. Available 24/7, it offers counselling and crisis intervention.

Al-Anon Family Group Woodstock 506-328-6122

For friends and family of alcoholics, meets Wednesdays 7-8 pm at the Woodstock Baptist Church, 785 Main St., Woodstock Woodstock Addictions and Mental Health 506-325-4419

Mon-Fri 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Perth-Andover Addictions and Mental Health 506-273-4701

Mon-Fri 8:30 am - 4:30 pm

Mental Health Mobile Crisis Unit 1-888-667-0444 - 7 days a week from 2 - 10 pm

Inpatient Detoxification Services: access by self-referral only; all admissions are voluntary. The detoxification unit provides inpatient treatment for the withdrawal from mood altering substances such as alcohol, cocaine, opiates and other drugs.

Fredericton Detoxification Unit 506-452-5525 / Located at 65 Brunswick St., Fredericton, NB

A 10-bed unit that provides medical support, education, and recovery planning for substance abuse and gambling. Phone 452-5525; accepts messages only, calls are returned to plan admissions Monday through Friday.

Miramichi Detoxification Unit 506-623-6175 / Located at 500 Water St., Miramichi. NB.

Top left: Members of the community cook dinner for the firefighters. Bottom left: Some of the many Christmas dinners and other food delivered to Bath firefighters.

Right: Finally able to eat: Bath firefighters get to enjoy Christmas dinner after a long day of helping others. (Submitted photos)

Moncton Detoxification Unit 506-856-2333 / Located at 81 Albert St., Moncton, NB.

Ridgewood Addiction Services 506-674-4300 / Located at 416 Bay St., South Bay, Saint John, NB provides a range of services for individuals, youth and family members affected by substance abuse and gambling.

Residential rehabilitation facilities

Ridgewood Centre (Saint John) 506-647-4300 / 416 Bay St., South Bay, Saint John, NB

Campbellton Regional Addiction Services 506-789-7055 / 53 Gallant Dr., Campbellton, NB

Rising Sun Treatment Centre (First Nations) 506-627-4626 / 31 Riverview Rd., Eel Ground, NB

Portage Atlantic 1-888-735-9800 / Cassidy Lake, NB, is a nonprofit organization established in 1995, operates a residential drug addiction rehabilitation centre for Atlantic Canada youth (14-21) in New Brunswick.

Early Recovery Group, Woodstock - each Wednesday (unless school is closed due to weather) from 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. at Bicentennial Boardroom (1st Floor), 200 King Street, Bicentennial Place, Woodstock, NB

Early Recovery Group in Perth-Andover - each Tuesday at 1 p.m. at the Mental Health and Addictions at 35F Tribe Rd., Perth-Andover, NB

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

*In an emergency, call 911 or visit a local ER*

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

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

Police investigating mail thefts across the province

RCMP say thieves targeting mail boxes in Carleton County communities

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

M ail theft is an ongoing problem in communities across New Brunswick, including Carleton County.

RCMP New Brunswick spokesperson Cpl. Hans Ouellette said the force knows of mailbox-related crimes in Carleton County but noted the widespread problem.

“In general, it’s right across the province,” he said.

Ouellette said police see no connection between the many instances other than the culprits targeting mailboxes.

“There’s nothing linking the file in Moncton, for example, with the files in Carleton County,” he said.

He said all the crimes are under investigation and urged the public to advise police of anything they see. He noted that even seemingly minor details could be pivotal to investigators.

Ouellette also urged residents to inform police of any suspicious activity, whether someone was around mailboxes at odd times or unfamiliar to those who regularly use the mailboxes.

Ouellette said the RCMP posted a statement about rising incidents of mail theft last October and posted more specific crimes since.

On Jan. 10, The New Brunswick RCMP reported that the force is investigating multiple reports of mail theft and damage to community mailboxes

in the Upper Kingsclear, N.B., region.

In the release, the Oromocto detachment of the West District RCMP offered details and photos related to mail thefts between Aug. 3 and Oct. 7, 2022. The release said RCMP received several reports of mail thefts and damage to community mailboxes on Mazerolle Settlement Road in Upper Kingsclear.

Although not part of the RCMP release, a northern Carleton resident reported on social media that thieves struck community mailboxes near Knowlesville on Monday, Jan. 9. The post included a photo of damaged boxes. Several other Carleton County residents commented on the River Valley Sun online story, noting similar instances in their communities.

The RCMP released surveillance footage photos from the incidents in Upper Kingsclear, hoping that, despite the quality, someone may recognize the vehicles or individuals in the pictures.

Police said it believes the vehicle in the first set of photos to be a newer model white Volkswagen Jetta. Police said three persons of interest, all of whom appear to be men, exited the vehicle.

The RCMP said investigators believe the vehicle in the second set of photos from Upper Kingsclear is an older model dark blue or grey Dodge Charger. Investi-

gators said two of three persons of interest that exited the car appeared to be female and one male. They said the driver remained inside the vehicle.

Oullette said that residents should report all crimes, minor or otherwise. He called it his “lawn gnome example.”

He said someone might not report the theft of a lawn gnome, thinking it’s not important enough to involve the police. However, he added, the report could add a link to an ongoing crime already under investigation in the area.

Ouellette said the RCMP New Brunswick website now includes a tool allowing people to report a non-emergency crime online.

Police ask anyone who recognizes the vehicles or individuals in the photos or who has information that may help further the investigation to contact the Oromocto RCMP at 506-357-4300.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800222-TIPS (8477) or by Secure Web Tips at www.crimenb.ca.

Canada Post offers further information and specific services to help people protect themselves from mail theft on their website: https:// www.canadapost-postescanada.ca/cpc/en/ support/kb/security/identity-theft/how-to-preventmail-and-identity-theft.

McLellan

Damaged mailboxes near Knowlesville Jan. 9. (Submitted photo)

Surveillance photos of two suspect cars in the Upper Kingsclear mail theft. (RCMP)

A surveillance photo shows a dark-coloured car and persons of interest in the Upper Kingsclear mail theft. (RCMP photo)

Phone service restored in Carleton County

Bell Aliant reports all repairs completed by Jan. 3 in areas affected by Dec. 23 wind storm

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Bell Aliant reported Wednesday afternoon, Jan. 4, that crews restored telephone landline services for all Carleton County customers affected by the Dec. 23 severe winter windstorm.

”If a customer is still experiencing an issue with their home phone, we recommend they reach out to us for additional support,” said Bell Aliant spokesperson Katie Hatfield.

The storm, including wind gusts above 100 km/ hr, which swept across eastern Canada and the northeastern U.S. two days before Christmas, created holiday havoc, leaving thousands without electricity or phone service for extended periods.

While NB Power crews restored electricity in most areas within several hours, some customers spent a few days without power. The restoration of landline phone services in Carleton County communities of Bannon, Mount Pleasant, Richmond Corner, Watson Settlement and the surrounding area took several days, with final repairs not completed until Jan. 4.

Hatfield said repairing the widespread wind damage proved time-consuming for crews.

“Restoring this service requires specialized network technicians and sourcing replacement equipment; however, we have crews in the area today (Jan.4), and service

has begun to restore,” she said.

Amanda McElhinney said on Jan. 3 that her parents and aunt, who live in the rural Bannon and Mount Pleasant area northeast of Hartland, have lived without landline phone service since Dec. 23.

“A lot of people rely on this service in these areas. Cell service is spotty at best,” said McElhinney. “I have senior parents living there as well as an aunt who lives not far from them, and she has a lifeline, so without home phone service, she has nothing in the event of an emergency.”

She said Bell Aliant restored partial service to her parents on Jan. 3, allowing them to receive calls.

However, they still couldn’t make outbound calls.

McElhinney said the loss of service significantly impacted her aunt when the failure of phone service interrupted the functionality of her lifeline, designed to alert first responders in a medical emergency automatically.

McElhinney said her aunt fell on Jan. 3, breaking her hip. Luckily, a neighbour, among those checking in on the senior, found her within 20 minutes of her fall. She was transported by ambulance to the Upper River Valley Hospital and will soon transfer to Fredericton for hip-replacement surgery.

McElhinney said poor cell service in these rural

communities further complicates the situation.

She and other Bell Aliant customers in affected areas also raised concerns about the lack of information about the phone disruption, including the estimated time of repairs.

“It’s very frustrating,” McElhinney said, noting she and others found it challenging to get information, and when they did reach someone, they received mixed messages from the telecommunications giant.

Hatfield said Bell Aliant understands the frustration and is working hard to restore service to all customers.

ed disruption, and they will be credited by contacting our customer support at 1-888-214-7896 or by direct message on our Bell Aliant social media channels,” she said.

Carleton North secures new doctor to run medical clinic

Municipality’s CAO confirms

RIVER VALLEY SUN

C

Sarah Pacey confirmed this week that Dr. Stuart Lockhart and his wife Maily agreed to operate the Carleton North Medical Clinic.

“The community is absolutely thrilled with the news and cannot wait until the clinic is up and running,” Pacey said.

She said the new 4,000 square foot clinic will offer eight exam rooms, a procedure room, on-site blood collection, as well as space for visiting health-care

arleton North CAOproviders. It will also have space for family meetings and group education workshops.

Carleton North Medical Clinic will lease the building owned by McGrathco Inc.

Pacey said the municipality agreed to bridge the lease gap for up to five years, while the clinic gets filled with physicians/practitioners.

She extended appreciation to Carleton North Community Foundation, Florenceville Rotary, Harrison McCain Foun -

agreement

with Dr. Stuart Lockhart to oversee

operations

dation and the McCain Foundation for funding to purchase medical

equipment

to outfit the new space.

In recent years, many of our clients have met the newest member of our team, Jacob Tompkins. Jacob is a well-qualified Associate Advisor who grew up in Woodstock. He majored in finance and accounting at Carleton University in Ottawa.

Jacob is very good at turning complex financial topics into easy-tounderstand concepts. Above all, we value that he is honest, professional, and approachable. As our business grows, having Jacob on our team allows us to maintain the high level of service and quality advice that clients have come to expect.

Call our office if you would like a free and confidential appointment.

Pacey said the clinic

and town would provide more information about an opening date and

contact details once all equipment and systems are installed.

New council begins new era in Woodstock

Expanded council for expanded community meets with department heads

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

With several new faces around the Woodstock council table for its first Council in Committee and regular council meeting on Jan. 10, part of the agenda focused on bringing everyone up to date.

Newly elected Mayor Trina Jones, who served as a previous council member, asked department heads to introduce themselves and their roles in the Council in Committee session, which preceded the council meeting.

Three of Woodstock council’s eight members previously served on council. Jeff Bradbury has several years under his belt, while Mark Rogers, elected deputy mayor, and Norm Brown won re-election after a term cut short by municipal reform.

Council’s new faces are Will Belyea, Lorne

Leech, Christa McCartney, Julie Williams and Michael Martin.

Meet the department heads

While the new council lacks years of experience, that’s not the case among department heads. During the Committee in Council, each director took the podium to outline their respective backgrounds and duties.

Woodstock Fire Chief Harold McLellan set the bar high for years of experience, telling council he is in his 49th year with the department. He outlined the command structure of the town’s acclaimed volunteer firefighting force.

Unlike his counterpart with the fire department, Woodstock Police Force Chief Gary Forward’s service to Woodstock is only in its fourth year. Still, like McLellan, he brings decades of police experience.

A highly trained veteran of 34 years, including 27 years with the Fredericton Police Force, Forward spoke primarily of his expectations for the Woodstock force and its push for transparency and accountability.

“It’s imperative the police force takes the lead in accountability,” he told council.

Forward said the force would deliver its 2022 annual police report in February and outline its strategic plans for 2023, which will include measurable benchmarks.

He explained the Woodstock force maintains strong partnerships with the RCMP and other forces across the province.

The Woodstock chief took the opportunity to inform council of his department’s acclaimed efforts at public communication, noting the WPF webpage

is considered “one of the best” in the province.

He praised staff member Cherie Doucette for her remarkable efforts to maintain the page.

Woodstock Director of Tourism Tobi Pirie, who also brings several years of service to the town, outlined a long list of events, projects and duties under her purview, including her department’s work with local groups and festivals.

Like Pirie, Woodstock Director of Recreation and AYR Motors Centre manager Kelly FosterHallett has served the town for many years. The physical education and horticulture grad uses her vast experience to work with staff to deliver recreational and social programs to the area population and manage the town’s many recreational facilities.

She noted the expanded AYR Motor Centre, now classified as a community centre, delivers a vast array of activities and events, including major concerts, trade shows and sporting events.

Deputy Mayor Mark Rogers asked FosterHallett if her department would take over the management of community halls, parks and facilities from communities which merged with the town as part of the municipal reform.

She said those facilities would not become town assets. CAO Garnett explained outside rec facilities have their own rec committees but noted that could change in the future.

Public Works Supervisor Greg Stokes told

council he began work with the town 35 years ago at the old Woodstock Arena. He now manages public works and water and sewage staff, which keeps the streets maintained, water running and facilities operational.

“We’re thrilled with the department,” said Mayor Jones.

Fallon Lappage, with 17 years of experience with the town, explained her role as the Human Resources director, working with employees and the union on work-related issues.

Director of Finance Kristin Pelkey and CAO Garnett, who also supervises planning and development, also shared details on their roles which, like all supervisors and employees, will undergo significant change in the expanded Woodstock operations.

New signing officers

With the election of Mayor Jones and the appointment of Deputy Mayor Rogers, council passed a motion naming the town’s signing officers.

The motion provides financial signing authority to Jones, Rogers,

CAO Garnett and Director of Finance Pelkey. All transactions require two signatures, including either Jones or Rogers and either Garnett or Pelkey.

Recognizing 211 Day Woodstock council agreed to shine a red light on its town hall on Feb. 11 to mark 211 Day.

In a letter to council, Daniela Fernandez, Director of Community Engagement for the 211 N.B. helpline, asked the town to help market and acknowledge 211 Day.

Fernandez explained 211 is an information and referral service hotline connecting New Brunswick quickly to human, social, community and government support.

“It is free and confidential,” she explained.

Fernandez wrote that phones are answered 24/7, 365 days a year, in 170 languages through interpretation services.

“Anyone can call,” she said.

Fernandez said 211’s core mandate is to assist New Brunswickers to navigate food access, financial assistance, mental health resources, newcomer support, family services and more.

Mark Rogers elected as Woodstock’s deputy mayor Committee roles assigned with important issues waiting to be vetted

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

With new Mayor Trina Jones taking the helm of the expanded Woodstock council for the first time Tuesday, Jan. 10, council members elected returning councillor Mark Rogers as her deputy mayor.

Rogers and fellow returning councillor Jeff Bradbury put their names forward for the position, with Rogers earning seven of the eight oral votes cast.

Following the vote, a smiling Bradbury, the longest-serving council member, crossed council chambers to congratulate Rogers and pledge his support.

Mayor Jones also used the first council meeting to quiz councillors about which standing committees, special committees and boards they wished to chair or serve. She noted that all councillors, whether a chair or committee members, can attend meetings and play active roles.

Jones said she and CAO Andrew Garnett will help fill out and support most committees.

The mayor began by seeking interest in serving on the library and business improvement area boards and the planning advisory committee board.

Coun. Christa McCartney will serve as a town representative on the L.P. Fisher Library/Thompson Centre board, while Julie

Williams agreed to represent the town with the BIA board.

Jones explained both boards play active and significant roles in the town.

New councillor William Belyea will sit on the Planning Advisory Committee, while Bradbury, who served on PAC last council term, agreed to return.

Jones said the current eight-member PAC would undergo a significant overhaul as the town attempts to attract residents from communities outside the former Woodstock boundaries to sit on the committee.

Jones said anyone interested in serving on PAC could apply for a position, including current members. She said the council would review the applications and appoint the committee members, noting it remains to be determined if the committee stays at eight members or expands to 10 or more.

Jones and Garnett noted during the meeting that the PAC, which deals with zoning issues and required variances, will face potentially differently named zones in outlying areas.

Mayor Jones reinstated three committees: Finance, Asset Management/Building and Public Safety. She said all would face vital decisions.

The mayor, Bradbury and new councillor Mi-

chael Martin agreed to serve on the Finance Committee, although council will determine the committee chair later.

Jones said Director of Finance Kristin Pelkey and other staff members would play a central role on the committee, which deals with all the town’s financial and fiscal issues.

“I will try to attend all the meetings, and so will the CAO,” she said.

Coun. Bradbury will chair the Asset Management/Building Committee, which will also include Rogers, Belyea and Coun. Norm Brown.

“This will be important,” said Jones, noting the town already faces a pending building crisis.

“We are outgrowing a lot of assets,” she said.

She pointed out the size limits of the town hall to meet staff needs, adding it doesn’t provide an office for the mayor. With council expanding from six to eight members, she said, council chambers need more room.

Jones added that the attached fire hall no longer met the needs of the expanding Woodstock Fire Department and described the Woodstock Police Force station next door as an “aging” building with numerous deficiencies.

The mayor said the Asset Management/Building Committee must complete an asset inventory which

began last year.

Coun. Brown agreed to chair the Public Safety Committee with McCartney and Mayor Jones as members. Jones expects Woodstock Police Force Chief Gary Forward and possibly another police representative as committee members.

The mayor added a public safety group from a local Woodstock neighbourhood had already approached town officials about concerns. She said they were willing to serve on or work with the committee.

Mayor Jones also made appointments to a pair of special committees, which, unlike standing committees, have a specific mandate and a time limit to deliver a report.

Jones, as she did as councillor in the last council, will chair the ORV/ATV committee. Coun. Williams will also serve on the committee.

“We have a big task ahead of us,” the mayor said.

Over the next few months, she said, the committee will seek public opinion regarding if and how off-road vehicles are allowed access to town streets.

Jones said the committee would use information gathered during last summer and falls pilot project and input from the public to deliver a report to council by April 1.

The mayor will also chair the second special committee, the Water Billing Review. Deputy Mayor Rogers and Councillors

Martin and Williams will also sit on the committee which must, as quickly as possible, decide a billing option, whether levy or metre, for town water services.

“We know it’s a sensitive one,” said Jones, adding it will also be a “quickmoving one.”

She said the committee must deliver a report to council before the end of February.

Jones said the committee report must outline specific objectives and recommend a process.

Pelkey said the town needs to move away from the current billing system whether the committee recommends levy or metre.

“The process has to change,” she said. “It’s not an efficient process.”

Woodstock’s Deputy Mayor Mark Rogers. (Jim Dumville photo)

Woodstock CAO updates council on active projects New team inherits ongoing projects involving multiple sectors and urgencies

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

As part of the CAO update during the Jan. 10 council meeting, Woodstock CAO Andrew Garnett outlined four significant town projects requiring council members’ attention early in their first term.

Garnett briefed council, especially new members, about ongoing projects they will inherit from the previous council. He said council members should familiarize themselves with continuing and potential funding and grant programs.

Garnett explained one of the ongoing projects includes a walking path or sidewalk along Deakin Drive. He said the town secured funding for 60 per cent of the project up to $141,000, meaning it would cover a $235,000 project.

He said that would not complete the project, but the town could reapply for funding support. Responding to a question from Coun. Williams, Garnett said the town still

needs to determine a final plan.

Deputy Mayor Rogers noted the consensus appeared to favour a paved walking trail similar to the one along Connell Park Road.

Garnett also outlined the Town Square project, noting the town spent two years trying to secure a funding partner. He explained that the provincial Regional Development Commission (RDC) agreed to a 50-50 split last fall.

“Unfortunately, by the time the deal was in place, it was too late to begin the project,” Garnett said.

He explained the funding agreement expires in April before the weather will allow work to begin. However, Garnett added, RDC officials said the commission would reexamine the project.

To prepare for the project, previously estimated at $700,000, Garnett said the town might issue tenders from some materials early, advising council to

expect to see such tenders seeking their approval this winter or spring.

Garnett also advised council that the town’s development and planning will undergo significant changes as Woodstock boundaries expand to take in surrounding local service districts.

He explained he recently met with Dillon Consultants, which works with the town’s development team.

“Everything now goes to Dillon,” Garnett explained about building permits and rezoning requests. He added that the town remains the point of contact for property owners.

The CAO said about a half dozen people from outside Ward 4, the former town of Woodstock, had already reached out about planned projects.

Garnett said zoning exists in the former LSDs, but the zoning terminology differs from Woodstock’s. He said the town would determine whether

to maintain zoning descriptions or change them to coincide with the town.

Garnett also updated council about the potential for harness racing coming to Connell Park. He referred to ongoing news reports about the closure of race tracks in Saint John and Fredericton, and the possibility New Brunswick Harness Racing may direct some

races to Woodstock.

“No one reached out to us,” Garnett said.

Garnett said he and Director of Tourism Tobi Pirie met with a couple of members of the Woodstock Driving Club about the issue. He said the club had unofficial conversations with provincial harness racing officials.

Garnett added that the

town doesn’t presently have an MOU (memorandum of understanding) with the driving club.

While the potential to host several events at the Connell Park Race Track exists, the CAO said all discussions are in their infancy.

“We haven’t even talked to Harness Racing New Brunswick,” he said.

“We just started to talk.”

Woodstock CAO Andrew Garnett. (Jum Dumville photo)

Education minister prepared for big changes in new year

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

New Brunswick Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Bill Hogan face a new year of change.

The most significant change awaits the start of the 2023-24 school year in September and the replacement of early French immersion in kindergarten and Grade 1 with the proposed New Brunswick Innovative Immersion Program.

While acknowledging the change is the first step towards replacing the existing immersion program over the long term, Hogan told the River Valley Sun that the final objective is to address inherent problems in the current system while still promoting French education in the anglophone school system.

He stressed the changes would not affect students already studying in the French immersion system.

Hogan said the new program’s goal is to see all students learn conversational French at a minimum and address the streaming problem, which denies equal access for some students, created by the existing immersion program.

The minister said the new French-languagetraining program would not reduce opportunities for students who desire enhanced training.

“There’s going to be opportunities as they move up in years to enrich their French experience,” he said.

Hogan said the province is not introducing the

new program sight unseen. He said it builds on a program tried in Bathurst for the past decade, which exceeded French immersion results.

“This is not something we pulled out of a hat,” he said.

The department introduced the new program during a press conference and statement on Dec. 15.

Starting in September, kindergarten and Grade 1 students will spend 50 per cent of their day engaged in exploratory learning in French to foster strong literacy skills in that language. The other half will be taught in English on subjects such as math, reading and writing.

Allowing for differences in delivery and depending upon the demographics of communities, the framework aims to provide students with early, highquality instruction using a balanced approach.

Hogan said the government would allow further input from parents and other members of the public. While he faces backlash, he said he expects those conversations to be part of the upcoming consultations in January.

A series of virtual and in-person consultations will take place throughout January on the proposed framework. The in-person consultation sessions will be held from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on the following dates in the following communities:

— Jan. 17 – Bathurst;

— Jan. 19 – Moncton;

— Jan. 24 – Saint John;

— Jan. 25 – Fredericton.

The virtual sessions will take place on Jan. 31 and Feb. 2.

The minister acknowledged some parents feel the 50 per cent of classes in French in the new system reduces desired French training for their children. In contrast, other parents believe the 50-per cent French classes will hinder their children’s overall school development.

“We’re always going to have those two extremes,” Hogan said. “Unfortunately, what we have now isn’t working. It creates inequality in our system.”

While his government’s proposals address some of the streaming issues in the school system, Hogan said classroom composition issues remain.

The minister recognizes the French-language changes put additional strain on staff levels and resources but said those challenges are not new to New Brunswick’s school system.

Hogan said the department estimates a need for 60 additional teachers in September, which grows yearly.

“It’s not a one-and-done type of thing,” he said, noting the department must find ways to recruit staff.

Hogan said the department would monitor results on an ongoing basis.

“We are going to start, and if something isn’t working, we’ll have to change it to something that works,” he said.

Hogan said the department hopes to see more

students graduate from high school capable of conversing in French. He said the system is unlikely to produce fluently bilingual graduates ready for a bilingual government job.

“Students don’t graduate today and come to work for the government,” he said. “That’s a fallacy.

He said bilingual government jobs require postsecondary education, and high-school grads must maintain and enhance French training upon graduation.

Hogan said the school system needs to work beyond the Innovative Immersion Program, including providing more opportunities to integrate New Bruns-

wick’s different cultures.

“I do realize learning and appreciating our cultures is important,” he said. “Goes for both cultures.”

Hogan understands his department’s decisions are emotional for students and parents.

The minister faced widespread public criticism for referring to a protesting elementary student involved in a Moncton pilot project as a political “prop.”

Hogan said he didn’t direct that term towards the student but towards Chris Collins, executive director of Canadian Parents for French, who he believed “used” the student as a prop.

He said he doesn’t deny

the negative experiences of students and parents in the pilot project but added he talked to others with positive experiences in the same pilot project.

Hogan added the Moncton pilot program is different than the one his department is implementing.

Hogan, a former Woodstock High School principal, said education changes of any type could prove stressful for students and parents. But, added changes are required to keep up with changing times.

“This is a new program, and we’re going to monitor it and make adjustments as we need to,” he said.

Best Western Plus, Woodstock, is a proud supporter of community journalism and the River Valley Sun.

Hogan ready to overhaul French-language training; will make adjustments as needed

Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Bill Hogan addresses the

on Dec. 15. (GNB photo)

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GUEST COMMENTARY SUSAN HOLT

W ho would have guessed that during a time when our ERs are perpetually closing, diesel prices are hammering us, and housing costs are skyrocketing, we would find ourselves talking about French Immersion? Yet French Immersion became a hot topic of conversation in 2022 and will continue to be in 2023 because this government had a political agenda to achieve and said, “the timing is right!’

The decision to eliminate French Immersion goes against the recommendation of the commissioners Premier Higgs tasked with reporting on second language learning. It goes against the advice of experts, teachers, bureaucrats, and, based on all the messages I’ve been receiving, it also goes against parents’ and students’ wishes.

I believe strongly in expanding French second language training to make it more accessible to any student that wants it at a level that works for them. Unfortunately, the Higgs Government has chosen to implement a one-size-fits-no-one program as early as next fall. Imposing a model where every student spends 50% of their day in French creates staffing issues, removes the element of choice, and provides a lower level of French education. Premier Higgs and Minister Hogan have rejected the data and won’t listen to anyone as they stubbornly forge ahead.

Firstly, we don’t have enough teachers to make it work. Plus, teachers and

French Immersion plan: A one-size-fits-no-one approach

students are still trying to recover from years of disrupted learning during the pandemic. Adding a total revamp of French education into the mix puts too much strain on the system, throwing everything back into chaos.

In addition to creating chaos in the system, the proposed model removes parents’ ability to choose what works best for their children. As a parent, this really bothers me. I have three children, the two eldest are already going through French immersion and hopefully will be able to continue until graduation, but my youngest is in kindergarten. I would like her to receive an immersive French experience, like her sisters, but we don’t yet know what education she will receive next year with this rushed, still-being-developed, one-size-fits-no-one approach.

Immersion is used worldwide and has been proven to be the best way of teaching and learning a second language. It exists in every other province. Does New Brunswick’s current model work for everyone? Nope. Could it have been improved? For sure. Should it be thrown away altogether? Absolutely not. Conversational French is better than no French, but it doesn’t set up a student for a career where they need to use both languages. And it certainly doesn’t prepare the future generation of French second language teachers.

I believe in French Immersion, and I want it to come back, but I also want parents to get a say, and I want to show more respect for the teachers, staff and everyone involved. If elected, the Liberal team will bring back options for French Language learning programs, including French immersion, but we will not send the system into further chaos. The changes we make will be done at the right time and with the right resources. I hate the old backand-forth of cancelling everything the previous government did; it’s a huge waste of time and resources. We will end that cycle by only changing what really needs to change, only doing it at the right time, and always working with the people on the ground to make sure

it doesn’t cause chaos.

Teachers are talking to me, sharing their concerns, and giving their input on what is needed to fix the system. If I were asked to summarize what I’m hearing in one word, it would be “stability.” We have great people doing fantastic work in our schools, but the constant changes and the years of pandemic learning have worn our teachers down. We need to give our education system the time and resources it needs. We need to provide a wider variety of resources that sup-

port overall learning, including mental health resources.

Education is a top priority for our Liberal team, and we want every student to get the best possible education. Together, we can achieve this by carefully reintroducing options for students and their families while giving our schools the respect, resources, and stability they need to do their critically important work.

ageless New Brunswick is a proud supporter of community journalism and the River Valley

Susan Holt is the leader of the New Brunwick Liberal Party.

Lakeland Ridges holds inaugural council meeting Committees set, but deputy mayor decision postponed until February

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The council meeting for the new expansive community of Lakeland Ridges held its inaugural meeting on Monday, Jan. 9.

Held at the Canterbury municipal office, council agreed the village hall would be the regular home for meetings. However, Lakeland Ridges Mayor Tanya Cloutier said council plans to hold meetings throughout the community over the coming year.

“The council is planning on having “special meetings” throughout the year in each ward to give community members an oppor-

tunity to come out and meet with everyone within their own ward,” said Cloutier.

She said council also agreed to meet twice monthly on the second and fourth Mondays.

The Jan. 9 meeting began with an introduction of all councillors, the mayor and municipal staff.

Lakeland Rides CAO/ clerk Susie Patterson welcomed the new council with a brief presentation.

Cloutier said a decision to select the deputy mayor would await amendments to the bylaw.

She explained the by-

law amendment would establish the process of electing the deputy mayor by a public council vote.

With the first reading of the amended bylaw planned for the first reading at the next council session on Jan. 23, Cloutier said they expect to have a deputy mayor in place in February.

Council members also discussed potential conflicts of interest, with Coun Randy Stairs claiming potential conflict surrounding transportation and Coun. Michael Furrow cited possible conflict with the fire

department.

Mayor Cloutier handed out committee assignments to councillors, with Furrow taking on Recreation, Stairs in Protective Services and EMO, Chris Yerxa in Transportation, Perry Bull in Waste and Recycling, Ross Stars in Workforce/Personnel and Environment, Mark Grant in Community Development, Patricia Budd in Family and Community and Linda Porter in Tourism.

Cloutier said each council member received the provincially approved Lakeland Ridges’ 2023 budget. She said they also

RIVER VALLEY SUN

Noah was New Brunswick’s most popular baby name in 2022, followed by Liam and William, according to Service New Brunswick.

In a release issued Dec. 30, Service N.B. said other popular baby names this year were Jack, Thomas, Oliver, Benjamin, Olivia, Emma, Amelia, Jacob, Theodore, Owen, Henry, Logan, Levi, James, Violet, Charlotte and Hudson.

Preliminary results from the Vital Statistics Office at Service New Brunswick show that 5,208 births were registered in the province from Jan. 1 to Dec. 15.

“Congratulations to all parents who celebrated

the arrival of a child,” said Service New Brunswick Minister Jill Green. “Our government is committed to building vibrant and sustainable communities throughout New Brunswick for our residents of today and generations to come.”

Service New Brunswick’s vital statistics show a drop in births from 2021

to 2022.

The department reported 6,443 babies born in New Brunswick in 2021.

The stats also show Noah and Liam switching sports at the top of the list of names. In 2021, the 10 most popular names were Liam, Noah, William, Charlotte, Levi, Benjamin, Thomas, Jackson, Oliver and Olivia.

discussed the Escribe program, which will help councillors maintain transparency and communicate with each other.

“This

was tabled until the next meeting, so each council member has the opportunity to go through the budget.

Grief ’s Journey

After his death, his mother wrote a song. When it came time to record, Barb knew who she needed to have in the studio with her. Barb and Ryan know how difficult this time of year this can be for people who have lost loved ones. Their hope is that Barb’s new song for her late son can offer some hope to those who are grieving this holiday season.

The River Valley Sun spoke with the mother and sun duo about the recording, and gets them to perform the new single, “Too Soon - Derek’s Song.” Visit the River Valley Sun’s Facebook page to watch them perform the song. The album is available

Woodstock’s Wonder Muffler is a proud supporter community journalism and the River Valley Sun.

item

Lakeland Ridges Mayor Tanya Cloutier. (Submitted)

Carleton County Singer/Songwriter Barb Prosser and her son, guitarist Ryan Johnston, know what it’s like to grieve. They also know what it’s like to heal through music. Derek Johnston, who died on October 5, 2016, was a beloved son and brother.

at the Gathered Cottage in Woodstock.

SUNNY-SIDE UP

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

Did you KNOW?

•January was named for the Roman god Janus, known as a protector of gates and doorways, symbolizing beginnings and endings.

• The full moon in January (Jan. 6, 2023) is called the Wolf Moon, named for wolves often be heard howling on cold January nights.

• Valentine’s Day wasn’t associated with love until the Middle Ages, starting in France and England and marking when birds started their mating season.

• The oldest recorded Valentine being sent was a poem written by a French medieval duke named Charles to his wife in 1415.

RVS TONGUE TWISTER

Many mumbling mice are making merry music in the moonlight near Marne.

CARLETON COUNTY Colloquialisms

By John Morris

boot \’boot\ verb – 1. To take one’s leave, to depart; “It’s nighon five o’clock... we gotta boot.” See also: float, header. 2. Denoting excessive speed or pace, usually used in the gerundive; “We was doin’ at least 90; just bootin’ along!” See also: cuff, honkin’, humsuck, piss-cut, whiff.

Hear this word pronounced at www.dooryard.ca.

Perth-Andover

Hospital fundraiser

Members of the Hotel-Dieu of St. Joseph Foundation are hosting a fundraiser, selling tickets on a twonight stay at Glamp Camp Waterborough along with a gas card,a grocery card, and some pampering products. Tickets are $20 each and available from foundation members or can be purchased at the hospital.

Music in Juniper

The Juniper Community Centre will host an “Afternoon of Music” from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 21, featuring local musical talent. Admission is by donation at the door with proceeds supporting the centre. The event will include a 50-50 draw and a light lunch. Organizers would welcome contributions to the lunch.

New municipal entity

The municipalities of Bath, Centreville and Florenceville-Bristol have merged with the surrounding Local Service Districts effective January 1st. Administrative and accounting staff will be operating out of the former Florenceville-Bristol Town Office location for the time being. Any inquiries can be made by calling 392-6763.

Hartland

Women’s pick-up hockey

Carleton County women who want to get back on the ice but have aged out of minor hockey can join other women for a game of pick-up hockey at the Hartland Arena every Thursday at 8:45 p.m. The cost is $2 per player and participants must wear full gear and sign a waiver. Join their Facebook group: Carleton County Female Pickup Hockey. This is sponsored by the River Valley Sun, Vail’s Bottle Exchange and McLellan Brandsource Home Furnishings.

A Taste of Winter

The Woodstock Skating Club will host a “Taste of Winter” , a fundraising dinner, at 6 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 11,at the AYR Motor Centre in Woodstock. The dinner will deliver funds to help it continue offering the CanSkate program at a reasonable price to local families.

Tickets for the four-course fundraising dinner, with Susan Hayden donating the catering for the event, are $50 each. To purchase tickets, contact wskatingclub@outlook.com. The evening will include a silent auction featuring a generous collection of gifts and services.

Night Sliding Party

Bring the family to a night sliding part on the Woodstock Golf Club Hill (park off Connell Street) on Saturday, Jan. 21 from 6 to 8 p.m. The Woodstock Recreation Department, with the help of the Woodstock Fire Dept. is lighting up the hill at the Woodstock Golf Course. Free hotdogs and hot chocolate will be provided by Sobeys. Enjoy a giant bonfire and Fireworks display! Helmets are recommended for children. This event is sponsored by Manulife Securities. This event is subject to cancellation due to poor weather or snow conditions. Watch their Facebook page for updates.

Outdoor rink open

The Canterbury outdoor

rink is now set up and ready for skaters. Thanks to Mark Grant for all his hard work getting this ready for skaters.

Darts resumes Jan. 27 Dart nights will resume on Friday, Jan. 27 at 7 p.m. at the Canterbury Community Centre. Everyone is welcome. Cost is $5 per person. Come alone or with a group of friends. There will be homemade pizza for sale as well as chips, chocolate bars, and pop.

Carleton County

Be More Like Evan Day

Celebrate kindness in memory of the late Evan Graham on Wednesday, Feb. 1 by doing something kind for someone and posting online with the hashtag #BeMoreLikeEvan. In honour of the day, there will be free bowling at the Woodstock Bowlade in Jacksonville on Feb. 1 from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. sponsored by Exit Realty Platinum. On Tuesday, Jan. 31, there will be a Bingo Fundraiser at the Meduxnekeag Consolidated School where Evan was a student.

Proceeds will go to the Evan Graham Scholarship Fund and the Home and School Association. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with Bingo getting underway at 6 p.m. Cost is $10 for three cards, and $5 for each additional card.

Valley Outreach offers free, confidential support to someone living with, leaving, or has left an intimate-partner violent relationship, or has been sexually assaulted, or knows someone who needs support. Offering support from Nackawic to Plaster Rock, these services are still available during COVID-19. For more information contact Manon Albert, Valley Outreach Coordinator, by calling 1-506-328-9680, or text 1-506-328-7246, or email valleyoutreach@nb.aibn.com or reach out on Facebook Messenger.

Johnson: ‘Come hell

or high

water, we’re going

to

get our bridge

back’

MLA tells District of Carleton North council that new bridge is on provincial agenda

By Sandra Hanson

At the inaugural meeting of the District of Carleton North, the issue of the Florenceville Covered Bridge was at the top of the agenda.

“Come hell or high water, we’re going to get our bridge back in working order,” declared Carleton-Victoria MLA and Minister of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries, Margaret Johnson, at the January 10 meeting of the District of Carleton North Council meeting.

The proclamation followed concerns raised by Florenceville resident David Hunter, who addressed Council.

“As a local resident, I’m interested in the means that will be necessary to have the tourist attraction bridge functional,” said Hunter.

“That’s on a lot of minds,” acknowledged Mayor Andrew Harvey. “It’s a very important piece of infrastructure.”

The Old Florenceville Covered Bridge has been closed to traffic

since November 2020, when structural issues were discovered.

Johnson explained that a meeting had been held the day prior with herself, Mayor Harvey, CAO Sarah Pacey, and the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure Minister, Jeff Carr.

“We gave him a very wholesome tour of Carleton-Victoria,” said Johnson, sharing that she took Minister Carr on an extensive tour of the problematic areas.

“He’s felt it in a truck, and he sat in the backseat of the truck making notes. He now has a very good idea of the needs of the area.”

Johnson said several examinations had been done on the bridge over the last two years, including overhead exams, underneath exams, and underwater exams.

However, they are still in need of a hydrology report as well as an archeology report. She noted that she an -

ticipated those would be completed “quite expeditiously.”

“Our hope is that we will be able to release the RFP (request for proposals) for construction in April,” said Johnson, adding that the RFP for design and construction will be active for three months.

“Conceivably, we could see hammers being wielded by the fall, fingers crossed.”

When asked what was wrong with the existing bridge, Johnson said the bridge had severe cavitation underneath the piers, and extensive corrosion would require demolishing and replacing the steel spans. However, the historic covered bridge portion is in good condition.

In discussing the bridge’s future, Johnson said the government is open to creative suggestions.

“In sending out an RFP, we’d like people to think outside the box

– what can you do? How can you make this something that explains the historical significance of this section? We want to make sure [the original section] is retained as part of the new structure.”

She added that the RFP would be requesting two lanes of traffic, with the potential for a pedestrian walkway.

“This provincial bridge has historical value to it,” added Mayor Harvey. “It’s also a main

corridor across the river. We are going to hold the province accountable to fix the bridge to a standard that is safe for the public, and we want that to be a two-lane bridge and to keep the historic nature of the bridge.”

New municipality of Carleton North hosts inaugural meeting Discussions centred on planning, building inspectors, and economic development

By Sandra Hanson

J anuary 10, 2023, marked the inaugural meeting for the newly formed District of Carleton North. The following items were topics of discussion:

Deputy Mayor elected Per By-Law A-1 enacted by the provincial Transition Facilitator,

the new council was required to elect a Deputy Mayor from among the councillors. Mayor Andrew Harvey opened the floor to nominations.

Councillor Laurel Bradstreet nominated councillor Karen Hargrove. With her being the only name brought forward,

Mayor Harvey declared Karen Hargrove as the new Deputy Mayor for this election term.

WVRSC appointments

Per the Governance Reform Act, the new municipalities were required to appoint a Planning Director who must also be the Development Officer.

Mayor Harvey motioned to appoint Conor Tripp, the Planning Director for the Western Valley Regional Service Commission (WVRSC), as the Planning Director and Development Officer for the District of Carleton North. The motion was unanimously approved.

Mayor Harvey then motioned to appoint Brent DesRoches as the Building Inspector for the District of Carleton North. Before the motion was put to the vote, Councillor Chala Watson questioned if there was only one building inspector for the entire District.

“The budget does include a second building inspector,” said CAO Sarah Pacey.

Mayor Harvey further clarified.

“That’ll be part of the performance measurement as time goes on,” said Harvey, spurring more discussion on whether the services could be upgraded. It was noted that if the need arises for a sec-

ond inspector, the budget allows for another to be hired. If a second inspector is not employed, the municipality will be refunded the budgeted amount in two years. The motion to appoint Brent DesRoches as the inspector was passed unanimously.

Presentation

Carleton Victoria MLA Margaret Johnson attended the meeting to present the new Council members with congratulatory certificates.

“It is an honour to be here this evening,” she said, “and to present these certificates to the incoming council. The reason they’re all involved here is because they have a deep commitment to making their community better.”

Johnson, who is also the Minister of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries, commended the members for being willing to put themselves forward as representatives of their community and remarked that she

knew they would “work together to bring the District of Carleton North into a dynamic future.”

Municipal Growth

Resident Phillip Crack questioned Mayor Harvey on business licensing, property zoning, and what plans he had for attracting new businesses to the area.

“Since I’ve been here, that’s been one of the biggest complaints,” said Crack. “There’s nothing in this part of New Brunswick to attract new businesses and tourism to the area. Everyone goes by on the highway, but there’s nothing [here] to attract them off the highway.”

“We’re literally eight days into the job,” said Harvey, “and this is our first meeting, so we haven’t discussed a lot of these things yet, but we will be very aggressive in attracting new businesses and working with existing businesses in this area. It will be a work in progress - stay tuned.”

File photo. (Jim Dumville photo)

Former Nackawic Deputy Mayor Greg MacFarlane retains position

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Nackawic-Millville’s first deputy mayor comes with experience in the role. Among the new council’s first decisions at its inaugural meeting on Monday, Jan. 9, it unanimously approved the appointment of Greg MacFarlane as deputy mayor.

As former deputy mayor of the Nackawic council, MacFarlane expressed early in the meeting his interest in retaining the position with the newly expanded Nackawic-Millville council.

Later in the meeting, Mayor Tim Fox asked council members for nominations, noting council would hold a public vote in the event of more than one nomination. It proved unnecessary, as MacFarlane, nominated by Coun. Jeff Clark, became the only candidate. He received unanimous support from his fellow council members.

Letter raises concerns about closed bridge in Temperance Vale

A letter from Temperance Vale resident John Deweyert raising concerns about the closed MacElwain Bridge in his

community noted the bridge now falls within the mandate of the expanded Nackawic-Millville boundaries.

The letter also generated a discussion among council members about the future makeup of committees. Mayor Fox sought council’s views on whether it requires a new transportation committee to work closely with the provincial Department of Transportation and Infrastructure or expand the role of the former Public Works committee.

Fox said council should forward Deweyert’s concerns to the appropriate committee, and inform him of the situation.

The mayor allowed each councillor to weigh in on the matter.

“Someone to work with DTI is a good idea,” said Coun. Michael Arbuckle.

He said council should check the current workload of the public works committee before making a final decision on the committees.

Coun. Robert Simpson, who worked closely with the public works committee as a member of the former Nackawic

council, said the committee and Nackawic developed a good working relationship with DTI.

He reminded council the role of any committee is not to make final decisions but bring recommendations to council.

Deputy Mayor MacFarlane agreed with Simpson, noting Nackawic’s public works department worked close with DTI on repairs and upgrades on designated highways and bridges within the former town boundaries. He called it “a natural evolution” to spread public works’ mandate to the expanded community.

Coun. Jeff Clark, who represents the ward where the bridge is located, recommended a committee dealing with public works and infrastructure.

Coun. Katie Nozzolillo, who grew up near the bridge, said she heard from several residents of the area about the negative impact of the closed bridge on their lives. She said she hopes to be involved with the committee studying rural issues.

Deweyert described the negative impact in detail in his letter, including

the dangerous situation the closed bridge creates for families with school children. He explained that the school bus no longer travels that route because of the bridge closure.

“At first, I found it odd that these children had to walk to Highway 595 and cross that heavily travelled (pulp trucks, farm equipment, plus auto) road,” he wrote.

Deweyert said he is pushing the issue because he believes it’s vital that the powers that be recognize the situation.

“It is a very risky situation, and I could never forgive myself if something happened to these kids,” he wrote.

Deweyert welcomed the cabinet change, which saw Jeff Carr take over as Transportation and Infrastructure from Minister Jill Green, describing Carr as more approachable.

Deweyert said he met with Premier Blaine Higgs at the PC Party AGM, who set up a meeting with Carr. He said he believes Carr visited the bridge, as did inspectors.

“I have no results yet, but we are hopeful,” Destination Nackawic Update

Deputy Mayor Greg MacFarlane provided council with an update on Destination Nackawic Economic Development Corporation. While

it remains unclear how economic development would proceed under the new municipal reform format, he said a recent meeting with Ignite Fredericton left a positive impression.

“I got a really good vibe,” said MacFarlane.

He said Ignite Fredericton recognizes the success of Destination Nackawic and appears willing to allow economic development decisions to be made in the community.

MacFarlane also acknowledged outgoing Destination Nackawic president and CEO Brent Sansom, whose contract is expiring. He said the CEO played an essential role in the corporation’s success.

He said Destination Nackawic would undergo changes in the new year, noting they must re-establish permanent members and backfill Sansom’s role.

MacFarlane also advised council members about a recent consultants report from GemTech regarding plans for a residential development covering a 47-acre property behind the Nackawic Middle School.

The deputy mayor said the town and the province shared the cost of the promising report, noting Nackawic-Millville hopes to be at the forefront in meeting the province’s growing housing needs.

CAO provides update

Nackawic CAO Kathryn Clark said meetings remain ongoing to meet the needs of the newly expanded community of Nackawic-Millville.

When questioned by newly appointed Deputy Mayor Greg MacFarlane about coping with the massive workload involved with the municipal reform package, Clark responded, “it’s a bit overwhelming, but we’ll muddle through.”

She said municipal transition work continues daily.

Clark said she met with Natalie Hill and North York Fire Chief Justin McGuigan on Dec. 22 to deal with municipal reform issues, including providing them with keys to buildings they need to access.

She said Chief McGuigan, for example, needs quick and immediate access to Nackawic’s public works garage for gas or diesel fuel.

Although 2023 is underway, Clark told council she is still awaiting the approved municipal budget from the province. She said the province provided no indication of when council or the public will see the finalized and approved document.

Clark said the job posting for the chief financial officer closed on Dec. 31. She said the applications are under review, with the interview process beginning shortly.

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Exchange students love living and learning far from home

Hartland woman said hosting visiting teens helps ‘fill her house and her heart’

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

There’s a distinctly international flavour roaming the halls of New Brunswick schools. More than 700 students from around the globe are currently attending New Brunswick schools, with 150 in Anglophone West schools, including eight at Hartland Community School.

The students arrive with the support of the New Brunswick International Student Program, spending anywhere from a semester to a full year as an exchange student.

Valentina Wynne of Germany and Aya Muira of Japan are two of the eight students living and learning this year in Hartland. Both are enjoying the experience.

The two 16-year-olds, along with the host mother, Holly Taylor of Hartland, and Anglophone West regional manager for NBISP Julie O’Brien, sat down with the River Valley Sun during a reception for Wynne’s Young Artist Showcase at Creek Village Gallery and Café on Connell Street in Woodstock on Jan. 7.

The two young women embrace the experience. And so does Taylor, who said Wynne and Muira, and the eight girls she hosted in the past, provide her with special memories and a worldwide network of new friends.

O’Brien said Taylor’s, Wynne’s, and Muira’s experiences are the norm with the program. While

problems occasionally occur, visiting students, host families, the schools and the community usually gain a lot.

O’Brien explained that the program, associated with Atlantic Education International, works well with a robust support system. She said each school has a coordinator, noting Dustin Day serves that role at HSC.

O’Brien added most hosts, such as Taylor, enjoy the experience.

Taylor began hosting international students in 2018.

“One of the previous coordinators approached me in a store one day and told me about the program,” she said. “I had an empty house and heart to fill. I couldn’t think of a better way. So without hesitation, I signed up to be a host parent/guardian.”

To date, Taylor hosted 10 girls between the ages of 14 and 18 from five countries, Germany, Spain, Brazil, Chile and Japan. While she faced some challenges, Taylor called it a “rewarding” experience.

She said she enjoyed support, help and encouragement from coordinators, O’Brien, friends and family.

“I have fond memories, stories, pictures, souvenirs and bonds from each time I hosted,” Taylor said. “I keep in contact with each ‘daughter’ as well as some of their family members.”

She said two of the young women she hosted already returned for a visit.

Muira and Wynne embraced the cultural difference as they arrived from the large international cities of Tokyo and Munich to small-town New Brunswick.

“It was smaller than I expected,” said Muira.

Both joked that in Hartland, they almost always run into someone they know wherever they go.

Muira said the food culture is dramatically different.

“At home, we eat rice every day,” she said.

Wynne noticed the heavy reliance on cars in Canada, noting that in Munich, she and her parents rely almost totally on bikes and public transport for travel.

Both girls remarked about the long and busy Carleton County Christmas season.

Wynne said they celebrate Christmas in Germany, but not to the same extent.

Muira said Christmas in Japan for her consisted primarily of a family dinner. She added that New Year’s is a special event in Japan. She admitted she missed spending it with her family this year.

Coming from large allgirls schools, the teens noted the different atmosphere in Hartland. While both attend large schools in their

home country, Hartland was the first time they attended a K-to-12 school.

Muira said all the girls in Japan wear school uniforms.

“We never had to worry about what to wear every day,” she laughed.

Wynne said her German school has a more controlled subject base with fewer options.

“I would not have culinary class in Germany,” she said.

While the student exchange program is going well, O’Brien said they are always looking for more hosts.

She urged anyone interested to reach out to the local school coordinator or contact nbisp.ca

Taylor encourages others to get involved.

“If you are interested in sharing your home, heart, life and culture and want to learn another, I recommend this program and this opportunity,” she said. “It’s life-changing.”

New Brunswick International School Program has the following students interested in attending high school in the area. They would start on Feb. 1 and finish at the end of June. If you are interested or know of someone who may be a great host family, please contact by email at nicole.giberson@ nbed.nb.ca.

Grade 10 female from Turkey – Student loves the outdoors and nature. In her spare time, she likes to read, draw, watch movies and play video games. She is very social and likes to make new friends. She is also a lover of animals.

Grade 10 male from Spain – Student loves sports, especially hockey and basketball. He attends the gym regularly and loves spending time outdoors. He likes to socialize, go shopping and likes playing video games. He likes animals but is allergic to cats.

Grade 11 female from Chile – Student enjoys cooking, dancing and listening to music. She likes to travel and socialize with friends. She enjoys animals, especially dogs. She looks forward to experiencing outdoor winter sports like skiing or snowboarding.

Grade 11 female from Bulgaria – Student loves listening to various types of music. She likes painting and ballet, being around animals, doing crafts, socializing with friends, photography, watching movies and travelling.

Grade 11 female from Turkey – Student enjoys music and plays the piano and electric guitar. She likes to read, write in her journal, do photography and loves to travel. She also enjoys swimming, table tennis and archery.

Hartland host “Mom” stands between Aya Muira, left, from Japan and Valentina Wynne from Germany. The 16-year-old exchange students are taking Grade 11 at Hartland Community School this year. (Jim Dumville photo)

Rotary planning a bigger and better fundraiser

Woodstock club moves Spring Fling to March, hoping to

By Theresa Blackburn

The Rotary Club of Woodstock hopes to build on previous successes and make its biggest fundraiser of the year even larger.

Rotarian and Dance Committee chair Corey Clark says the club has moved their annual February dance to March and will be back in person this year after two years of ‘Kitchen Parties.’

Due to COVID restrictions, the last two fundraisers were virtual, but Clark is excited to have an in-person event this year.

“We think people are ready, so we’ve got a few more things planned to try and make it bigger and better,” said Clark.

The Spring Fling will have live entertainment, but people attending will hear from both local and regional musicians this year.

“We’ve got local bands Stinking Rich and The Other Guys, as well as a headliner from Fredericton - Stephen Lewis

and the Big Band of Fun. They are a high-energy funk/hip-hop band that has played at the Harvest Jazz and Blues Festival in Fredericton,” said Clark.

The club hopes the move from mid-February to March 25 will mean more people in attendance.

“We feel like there will be a lot of people travelling this year,” said Clark.

“Normally, the tickets sell out, but not all ticket holders attend the event. We really want to increase our numbers, so we’ve made other changes as well.”

Clark says there will be no casino this year, but instead, the club will host a beer, wine, and spirits event where local vendors will be on hand to provide tasting opportunities to ticket holders and people in the community.

“We’re bringing in brewers and wine makers from Fredericton to Tobique,” said Clark, adding that those who buy tickets for the event will be given complimentary

sample tickets for the tasting. The Rotary wants to open that part of the evening to the general public to provide the vendors with as much exposure as possible.

“The AYR Motor Centre will be handling the bar, but if you find something you like at the predance tasting event, you’ll be able to purchase it throughout the evening.”

Last year, the club took their 50-50 draw online and raised over $7,000 for the Valley Food Bank.

“We’re bringing that back, and we’re also going to be doing an earlybird draw for ticketholders who purchase tickets before February 24. We’re hoping that will help promote the event even more,” added Clark.

The dance will return to the AYR Motor Fieldhouse, and there will still be $20,000 in prize money awarded throughout the night.

Clark says Rotaract members will be helping out with the event, and the River Valley Sun will be broadcasting the event

live on their Facebook page from 8 p.m. to midnight, giving people who cannot attend the chance to be a part of the evening.

“We don’t have all the logistics figured out just yet, but we will be getting some help with the event from our local Rotaract club, which is very active in the community which has grown in membership

this year,” said Clark

The Rotary Club of Woodstock has an impressive list of projects to its credit.

Over the last few years, the club has provided much-needed funds to several important community organizations like the River Valley Food Bank ($300,000), Sanctuary House ($400,000), the Upper River Val-

ley Hospital Foundation ($100,000), and the Central Carleton Community Complex ($100,000).

The club has also donated to Harvest House, the Woodstock Legion, the Meduxnekeag River Association, The Upper River Valley Autism Centre in Perth-Andover, and the AYR Motor Centre after-school program, to name a few.

Rotarians and hosts of the second annual Rotary Virtual Kitchen Party fundraiser Angela Acott-Smith and Kent Orlando in 2022. (Theresa Blackburn photo)

ARTFELT

New face at McCain Art Gallery in Florenceville-Bristol

Program outreach coordinator to promote local festivals, events, and workshops

By Jennifer Stead, The Andrew & Laura McCain Art Gallery Executive/Artistic Director & Curator

There is a new face at the McCain Art Gallery

The next time you visit the Andrew and Laura McCain Art Gallery or the Gallery Shop take a moment to introduce yourself to Esther Vaswani, who with a warm and enthusiastic smile, will greet you at the front desk.

Esther has joined the gallery as Program and Outreach Coordinator. She’s passionate about her local community and has already started finding creative ways to bring the Gallery and the Carleton North community together.

Esther lives in Woodstock with her partner and rescue dog and has a long history of working in community arts and education.

She has worked with Connection Arc, a nonprofit arts organization supporting artists to access grants in Fredericton, Flourish Fest in

Fredericton, and other arts festivals and organizations in the Maritimes.

Esther has led adult education courses for newcomers to New Brunswick and tradespeople through the New Brunswick Community College, the Mi’kmaqWolastoqey Centre and the Multicultural Association of Fredericton.

She also started a voluntary organization in Fredericton, Freeflo NB, to distribute menstrual products to people in need in the community.

In her new role as Coordinator of Programming, Esther will work on gallery festivals and events, and program the workshops available at the River Art Centre.

She is very interested in new ideas and suggestions for future workshops, so please drop by to start a conversation with her and while you are here, welcome her to our community.

Arts and Culture News from Western New Brunswick

McCain Foods Limited is a proud supporter of community journalism and the River Valley Sun. www.

Woodstock’s Esther Vaswani is the new Andrew and Laura McCain Art Gallery Program and Outreach Coordinator. (Jennifer Stead photo)

From Munich to Hartland to Woodstock’s Creek Village

Teenaged

German exchange student shines in the

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Sixteen-year-old Valentina Wynne came a long way, artistically and geographically, to see her paintings hanging on public view in a gallery.

From Munich, Germany, Wynne will shine in Woodstock N.B.’s Creek Village Gallery and Café’s Young Artist Spotlight during January and February.

The young artist is spending the year as a Grade 11 student at Hartland Community School as part of the New Brunswick International Student Program (NBISP)

“I really appreciate this opportunity to have my art on display at Creek Village and to be seen by so many people,” said Wynne.

While she shared her work with a supportive artistic community on Instagram, she said the Creek Village showcase is her first gallery exhibition.

Wynne thanked Creek Village and her HCS art teacher Jane Porter for making this event possible.

On Saturday, Jan. 7, HCS’s NBISP co-ordinator Dustin Day arranged a reception at the Creek Village Gallery and Café to officially launch Wynne’s exhibit.

Among those congratulating her were Wynne’s host mom, Holly Taylor of

Hartland, and the NBISP Anglophone West regional manager Julie O’Brien.

They both praised Wynne as an artist and a person.

Growing up in Munich, Wynne showed an interest in art from early childhood, drawing at every opportunity. The pandemic provided plenty of opportunities to expand her artistic pursuits.

“I have enjoyed doing art for as long as I can remember, but just started getting into drawing realistic art during the COVID lockdowns,” she said in the bio accompanying her showcase. “I was looking for ways to spend my time and connect with people.”

Once she found an artistic community on Instagram, she began connecting and collaborating with other artists to work and expand her art.

“I mostly draw photorealistic art but also enjoy creating through other mediums, including sculpting, painting, jewelry, and photography,” Wynne said.

She said her Creek Village Young Artist Showcase features only her paintings.

Wynne hopes to pursue art as a career, citing plans to attend art school after graduation.

While Wynne is far from family and friends, she appreciates the support of Porter, Day and others surrounding her in Hartland.

“I also am thankful to my host mom, Holly, for supporting me and encouraging me to do this,” she said.

Wynne, one of eight international students at HCS and several throughout the district, praised the N.B. International Student Program for giving students from across the world a chance to spend a semester or two in New Brunswick schools.

“We come to learn English, give back to the community, and experience new things (like displaying my art),” she wrote in her showcase bio.

Creek Village Art Gallery’s Paul Twyford said it was great adding Wynne’s paintings to the long list of young artists displayed on the Young Artist Showcase, sponsored by Woodstock businessman and investment advisor Greg McPherson.

He encouraged people to visit Creek Village to view the work of Wynne and other area artists.

“As you’ll see, Valentina’s artwork is exceptional,” Twyford said.

Young Artist Showcase

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Young Artist Valentina Wynne, left, and NBISP regional manager for Anglophone West Julia O’Brien stand in front of the Creek Village Gallery and Café’s Young Artist Showcase displaying Wynne’s work. (Jim Dumville photo)

Valentian Wynne’s painting, Pancakes (Submitted photo)

Valentian Wynne’s painting, Cherries, (Submitted photo)

Valentian Wynne’s painting, Sushi. (Submitted photo)

Valentian Wynne’s painting, Peaches. (Submitted photo)

Nackawic-Millville new mayor and council take oath of office

Story & Photos by Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

“This is a historical event,” said acting Chief Administrative Officer Kathryn Clark as she helped Nackawic-Millville’s inaugural seven councillors and mayor take their oaths of office at Nackawic town hall council chambers Wednesday evening, Dec. 14.

With friends and family on hand to watch, each of the newly elected council members, starting with veteran Nackawic councillor Robert Simpson and ending with Mayor-elect Tim Fox, approached the podium. After reciting the oath and signing their names, they each took a seat at the council table.

The council represents the new rural community combining the town of Nackawic, the village of Millville, and portions of the Southampton, Queensbury, Dumfries and Bright Local Service Districts. The seven councillors represent six wards, including two representing Ward 3, the town of Nackawic.

“This is an exciting time

for the region,” said Clark as she opened Wednesday night’s ceremonies, which ended with snacks, refreshments and conversation for all in attendance.

Following Simpson, one of two Ward 3 members of council, to the podium were Colin Trail of Ward 4, Michael Arbuckle of Ward 5, Katie Nozzolillo of Ward 1, former Nackawic Deputy Mayor Greg MacFarlane of Ward 3, Errol Graham of Ward 6, Jeff Clark of Ward 2 and Mayor Fox.

After the new councillors and mayor recited and signed the oath of office, CAO Clark presented each with a daily planner and sizable information packet before they took their seats at the council table.

The CAO acknowledged council members, even the experienced ones, face a steep learning curve. She said staff, the mayor, and council members spent much of 2022 preparing for municipal reform and the creation of the new Nackawic-Millville entity, adding that more work

awaits the new council.

“It’s been a lot of hard work, and there’s a lot more to come,” she said.

During his first address as Nackawic-Millville mayor, Fox echoed the CAO’s words, acknowledging the work ahead.

Fox said he and council would begin in January to deal with what could seem like an “overwhelming” task but expressed confidence in elected members meeting the challenge.

Fox, who defeated incumbent Nackawic Mayor Ian Kitchen, said he made a late decision to enter the race based chiefly on encouragement from friends and family. He praised the work of elected members of previous councils, thanking them for their service.

Fox thanked his wife, Tanya, for her support and expressed gratitude that his mother could attend the swearing-in ceremonies.

The new mayor said a primary focus will be economical and population growth for the NackawicMillville community, adding

he encourages citizen engagement.

Fox acknowledged the more extensive role staff would face in managing the expanded community

but promised council would be there “to ease that burden.”

Seated in his mayor’s chair following the formalities, Fox said he is pre-

pared for the work ahead and believes those joining him around the council table feel the same.

“I have great confidence in this council,” he said.

‘I have great confidence in this council,’ says new Mayor Tim Fox

Newly elected NackawicMillville Mayor Tim Fox.

Nackawic-Millville Deputy Mayor Greg MacFarlane.

Ward 1 councillor Katie Nozzolillo.

Ward 4 councillor Colin Trail.

Ward 6 councillor Errol Graham.

Ward 5 councillor Michael Arbuckle.

Ward 3 councillor Robert Simpson.

Ward 2 councillor Jeff Clark.

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Mayor Tanya Cloutier

and eight councillors took the oath of office on Dec. 29 to officially become the inaugural local government of the expansive new community of Lakeland Ridges.

Following a swearingin ceremony, with council members’ families in attendance, at the Canterbury Community Hall Thursday evening, the new mayor and council held an orientation session.

The combined community of Lakeland Ridges covers a massive rural area stretching from Forest City to Debec, connecting the villages of Canterbury and Meductic and local services districts of North Lake, Canterbury, Benton, and a portion of Debec. The region is divided into four wards, each electing two council members.

Joining Mayor Cloutier around the council table are

3.

Cloutier acknowledged significant challenges await the new council but expressed confidence that elected members can meet those challenges.

“We do have a lot of work ahead of us, but I believe we have a great team,” she told the River Valley Sun the day after the team was sworn into office.

Cloutier shared similar confidence during her inaugural address as Lakeland Ridges mayor during Thursday’s ceremonies.

“I believe that we have the potential to achieve great things together, and I am confident that with hard work and collaboration, we can address challenges, grow and create a better fu-

ture for all the people of our community,” she said.

“Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of our residents and help build a brighter future for all,” she said.

During her speech, the mayor committed to operating a transparent process and encouraged residents in all regions of Lakeland Ridges to bring ideas and viewpoints to her or council members.

Cloutier told the River Valley Sun that the location of its municipal hall and offices remains to be determined.

The provincial government’s municipal reform and amalgamation process included a commitment to maintaining all existing staff positions, meaning both the village clerks of Canterbury and Meductic take on executive roles with Lakeland Ridges. Former Canterbury clerk Susie Pat-

terson serves as CAO and clerk, while former Meductic clerk Lana Sharpe is deputy CAO and treasurer.

Cloutier said one of the council’s immediate priorities is to establish bylaws that work for all diverging areas of Lakeland Ridges. She said they must also decide how to appoint a deputy mayor from the elected members of council.

Cloutier said she and council members recognize the challenge of uniting the large, geographically diverse community in a common direction. Still, the entire council is prepared for the hard work and determination to make it happen.

Cloutier said Lakeland Ridges’ newly elected members take their role seriously.

“We know it will not happen overnight, but you have eight council members and a mayor who are committed to working together for

the betterment of Lakeland Ridges,” she said.

During her inaugural speech Thursday evening, Cloutier outlined some of her top priorities for the new community, including food security for all residents.

Cloutier also recognized the economic importance and potential of tourism to the community, which includes the popular lake area. She says Lakeland Ridges needs to promote and build upon the region’s vast natural and tourist re-

sources.

“Creating opportunities for the people of our community to stay in our municipality is extremely important,” Cloutier said.

“This could be achieved by hosting local events, focusing on the ATV trails, lakes and forests that we have and can grow on.”

Cloutier also committed to supporting the community’s volunteer fire and rescue departments, calling them of “utmost” importance.

Valley Honda is a proud supporter of community journalism and the River Valley Sun. www.valleyhonda.ca

Ross Bull and Ross Stairs in Ward 1, Linda Porter and Patrica Budd in Ward 2, Chris Yerxa and Randy Stairs in Ward 3, and Mike Furrow and Mark Grant in Ward

SCAMS: DON’T TAKE THE BAIT!

By Cherie Linder

Christmas is over for another year. The tshirt from your “snowbird” aunt with the Orlando Solar Bears hockey logo is not your cup of tea. Why not sell it online? Before you do, you should know a few things about online marketplace scams.

More than a billion users buy and sell goods on Facebook Marketplace each month. There is a lot more direct interaction, leaving more opportunities to be defrauded. Beware those who want to chat or receive payments outside of Facebook, where correspondence cannot be monitored. Facebook’s

Beware of online marketplace scams making the rounds

purchase protection policy only covers payments through their checkout, so you may never get your money back if you are scammed. The obvious scam is transferring money ahead for a purchase and never receiving the item by delivery. The best practice is to meet in a public place during daylight hours, inspect the item and pay the seller. Sellers can also be scammed. A buyer sends you too much money with a fraudulent e-transfer, stolen credit card or bogus money order. They advise you of the error and ask you to send them back the difference. It is only after the fact that you find out that you are now out the entire amount.

Online shopping is not the only way to be targeted online. In one of the newer schemes making the rounds on Facebook Marketplace and other online community pages, scammers post stories with emotion and urgent commonalities. It could be a lost pet or a missing child. This

scheme has many variations, but all encourage readers to share the post with friends. Scammers use a “bait and switch” tactic once the post has received enough shares. They get to work editing the post into topics such as deceptive rental ads, fake sweepstakes or surveys that guarantee a prize. They all have the same goal, to get your money or personal information for identity theft. The scammers often turn off the comments on their posts so that anyone recognizing this as a scam cannot tip off other readers.

Imagine searching for a puppy online and seeing a Marketplace ad for the breed you want. You begin messaging with the supposed seller, learning quickly that a payment is required immediately to hold the animal. Hundreds or sometimes thousands of dollars later, there is no breeder, no puppy and your money is gone. Check the seller’s profile or page. Are there a lot of

stock photos of animals? Ask for a real-time photo of the animal you are interested in, and if they give excuses for not sending one, you might want to rethink your purchase. Contact the SPCA or the Canadian

Kennel Club to find a good breeder.

As it is often tough to figure out where online scammers are, it is hard for the police to help you once you have sent money. So please, do your research.

Cherie Linder is an administrative

BEAUTIFUL BUMBLES

By Linda McHatten

HAPPY

A ‘bumble’ to the historic Bluebell train tunnel

tunnel was built in 1912 as part of the National Transcontinental Railway and, at 1,000 feet long, was known as the longest tunnel built in New Brunswick. After a few years, the tunnel began to deteriorate with falling rocks.

NEW YEAR!

We sure had a great 2022 season for bumbling. One of the highlights of our bumbles this fall was a trip to Bluebell Train Tunnell. We were hosted by Grace and Anthony with 14 ATVs, 27 people and one fur baby (my granddaughter Caroline and her puppy Winston were home from Alberta and joined us). Leaving Limestone Siding, we bumbled on trails to the abandoned Bluebell Tunnel located in Bluebell near Plaster Rock. The

In 1959 the train track was rerouted as the tunnel became unsafe for trains to pass through. Looking through the tunnel, you could see water seeping through the ceiling and the light at the other end. We did not venture far into the tunnel as it is unsafe with falling rocks. The path leading to the tunnel was so luscious and green with moss, mushrooms and a few wildflowers. It was an interesting piece of New Brunswick history to visit. This was the first I had heard of this hidden gem. We then travelled back toward Plaster

Rock, where we stopped for a potluck lunch at Dodo’s Take out site. It was a beautiful spot to enjoy our meal with more food than we could eat: goulash, hot dogs, salads, and the list goes on. The laughter and storytelling told it all. A bumble would not be complete without some mud and water we encountered. Needless to say, the winches came out as someone veered left instead of right. We bumble to Aurthurette, stopping for a break at the cenotaph, where we discovered the Poppy Trail, which was established just this past year. What a nice quiet spot to sit and enjoy the natural surroundings. We followed the trail along the beautiful Tobique River, where we saw cottage owners getting their last boat rides in. We pass the Tobique Dam, cross

the river at Perth Andover and continue along the river to Limestone Siding. We load up and reminisce about the day, recapping

and laughing about our mud experience as we look at the muddy buggies sitting on the trailers. Happy Trails!

SPECIAL CLIENTS!

Meet Susan - who doesn’t realize how coordinated she is! Lucky for me, Susan likes to read. She found out about Pilates in a book touting the benefits of Pilates as strength training, highlighting the importance for women as we age. She googled Pilates and with serendipitous timing there was my studio right in Woodstock. Susan would like to rework the Pilates mat order to do Hundred and Teaser at the start, but for now she entertains me and simply groans when Teaser arrives in usual order!

What Susan says:

“I’m not very co-ordinated,” she says, while doing a fancy dismount from the Wunda Chair.

assistant with the Woodstock Police Force. She collaborates with input from Community Resource Officer Cst. Shaun Kimball for this column.

An example of a marketplace scam. This boy was not missing. The person who posted this was from the U.S., only had a few friends, and just recently joined Facebook. (Submitted)

Linda McHatten is a retired LPN who now nurses her love for the outdoors. She and her husband live in Rosedale.

Linda McHatten’s ‘Bumble Crew’ stops for a picture at the entrance to the Bluebell Tunnell. (Linda McHatten photo)

RVS SUNSHINE KIDS

SUNSHINE SMILES:

Meet Layla (left) and Peyton Brewster. The three-year-old twins are the daughters of Kelsey and Daniel Brewster of Grafton. The sisters enjoy playing dressup, love their dollies, and hold hands often. They are always thinking of each other, and each tries to make sure the other ‘sissy’ has a snack, too. They attend Curious Kids Childcare at Townsview School. Their parents know when they are ‘conspiring’ when they hear them whispering to each other. (Submitted photo)

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

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

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

Thompson Insurance is a proud supporter of community journalism and the River Valley Sun. thompsoninsuranceltd.ca

CONNECTION

Sharing Stories of Inclusion, Diversity, and Community

Woodstock New Year’s Levee recognizes community leaders

In address, mayor expects significant challenges of 2022 will carry over to 2023

RIVER VALLEY SUN

In one of her first official duties, newly elected Woodstock Mayor Trina Jones hosted the annual New Year’s Levee at the historic Connell House and presented Certificates of Recognition to several community leaders.

On behalf of the town, the mayor presented nine Certificates of Recognition to nine individuals — Andy Leech, Laurie McLellan, Sheila Sparks, Rev. Craig Woodcock, Dwight and Fay Fraser, Gerald Gavel, Paul Hanson and Gloria Yachyshen — and one organization, the Woodstock Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, paying tribute to their respective contributions to the community.

Mayor Jones used the Levee to deliver an abbreviated state of the town, noting the significant nature of Jan. 1, 2023, as a “major milestone” for both the expanded Woodstock and New Brunswick.

She noted the new year ushers in the most significant change in municipal politics in 50 years.

The focus of the Jan. 1 event surrounded the presentation of certificates on behalf of Woodstock.

The town recognized Andy Leech for his service on several municipal and regional organizations, especially his contributions to the growth of amateur hockey with Woodstock Minor Hockey, CYV AAA and Woodstock High School. Leech, who did not attend the Jan. 1 ceremony, also served two terms on Woodstock council, and

sat on Woodstock’s Planning Advisory Committee and the Regional Service Commission 12 Planning Review and Adjustment Committee.

Laurie McLellan earned recognition for her longrunning promotion of the Carleton County maple sugar industry while providing valuable education for families. She also sits as a long-serving member of the Woodstock Farm Market board.

For Sheila Sparks, the Woodstock Certificate of Recognition is the latest of several honours related to securing the memory of the region’s veterans. In 2020, Veteran Affairs Minister Lawrence MacAuley presented Sparks with a national commendation for her efforts to locate and restore more than 600 veterans’ grave markers from 32 cemeteries throughout the region.

Rev. Craig Woodcock accepted a certificate recognizing his active contributions to the region’s community ministerial outreach and his role in pastoral care at the Upper River Valley Hospital. The town also recognized Woodcock’s role in maintaining the Woodstock Baptist Church as the emergency evacuation centre for the neighbouring Townsview School.

Prominent Woodstock business couple Dwight and Fay Fraser received recognition for their significant financial donations to various ongoing charitable campaigns in the Upper Valley Region. The certificate also recognized the Frasers’ contributions to sup-

port the former Woodstock Junior B hockey franchise, as well as youth programming and Sam’s Room at the AYR Motor Centre.

Gerald Gavel’s certificate recognizes, among other things, the retired businessman’s “institutional memory” of the local food bank. Gavel played a pivotal role in developing a long-term plan culminating in Valley Food Bank’s successful efforts to secure its own building. Gavel continues to remain active in the area’s music scene, organizing the local fiddle group.

Paul Hanson’s many years of dedication to veterans, peacekeepers, and the monuments that remind everyone of their sacrifice and courage served as the basis of his Certificate of Recognition. Hanson plays a central role with Carleton County Cenotaph Refurbishment Committee and continues participating in the ANAVETs’ school Remembrance Day programs. Hanson actively advocates for local veterans and helps organize International Day of Peacekeeper events.

The town recognized Gloria Yachyshen’s many contributions to the region’s art and music fields with a certificate paying tribute to her efforts on behalf of the Dooryard Arts Festival and the Dooryard Christmas Concert. It also recognized Yachyshen’s role with the Woodstock High School and the Town of Woodstock Theatre Committee, the Carleton County Music Festival and the Valley Young Players.

The Certificates of Recognition presented at the

New Year Levee also paid tribute to the remarkable efforts of the women of the Woodstock Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary to support the town’s firefighters. In addition to providing food and refreshments to fuel firefighters’ actions on the site of emergencies, the auxiliary spearheaded projects to secure such vital equipment as a thermal camera, dress uniforms and Scott air packs.

During her state of the town address, Jones acknowledged that the new year presents significant challenges and unknowns for her, the new eight-member council and the town staff.

The mayor explained the state of the town usually provides details surrounding the budget, but unfortunately, Woodstock’s 2023 financial picture remains unclear.

“The budgeting process this past year was far from a normal process, and since neither myself nor council

has seen or taken part in the budgeting process, I, unfortunately, can’t share much with you yet,” Jones said.

She said the province informed the town’s Director of Finance, Kristen Pelkey, of the budget’s approval, but the staff is still awaiting receipt.

Jones said she hopes to provide a more in-depth state of the town in the coming days or weeks.

“First, I’d like to thank our municipal staff for all the extra efforts they put in, as well as the transition team that met regularly throughout 2022 to meet all the deadlines the province set to be able to get to this point today,” she said.

Jones also thanked former Mayor Art Slipp, whom she defeated in the Nov. 28 election.

“He played a lead role on the transition team and put in a lot of extra time with that team and with UMNB advocating at the municipal level for information,” she

said.

Jones reflected on 2022 as a year of multiple challenges, noting the attempts to emerge from the pandemic while facing the fallout from the war in Ukraine, skyrocketing gas prices, high inflation and a mounting healthcare crisis.

Those challenges now await the new council in 2023.

She also noted that Woodstock and surrounding communities benefit from residents always ready to help meet those challenges.

“I am reminded every day of the generosity of the community in the Upper River Valley and how, at the end of the day, we always rally to help each other through challenging times, as is evident by the many community members we are recognizing today for their volunteerism and the contributions in our community,” Jones told the large crowd on hand for the Levee.

Recipients of the Certificates of Recognition handed out at the New Year’s Day Levee at Connell House join Woodstock Mayor Trian Jones. Front row, from left, Rev. Craig Woodcock, Paul Hanson, Gerald Gavel and Sheila Sparks. Back row, from left, Gloria Yachyshen and Heather Doucette and Theresa Gibson of the WFD Ladies Auxiliary, Laurie McLellan, Dwight Fraser, Fay Fraser and Mayor Jones. (Stephen Chisholm photo)

River Valley Film Circuit promoting the movie experience

New movie group offers the year’s most acclaimed films on the big screen

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Board members of the newly formed River Valley Film Circuit share common interests. They love movies, and they are betting that the desire to see the efforts of the world’s best filmmakers on the big screen is widespread throughout Upper St. John River Valley and beyond.

The group, formed early last fall after the former movie group Films in the Valley disbanded, believes people still want a cinematic experience offering critically acclaimed movies.

Two members of the River Valley Film Circuit, James Wright and Jane Hawketts, talked to the River Valley Sun about the upcoming season featuring five movies a month through winter and spring and four between September and December.

Wright explained the circuit’s mandate is to present acclaimed movies “that would not normally come to the area.”

Although streaming makes most films readily accessible to everyone, Hawketts believes people still want to make moviewatching a special event.

“We’re betting that people will want to come back to cinema post-COVID, especially for the cinematic experience,” she said.

Hawketts said screening the movies at 4 p.m. on Sunday should help movie fans make the outing a special event with friends or family. After taking in the film, she said, they have time to head out to dinner and talk about it.

“The films we’re bringing in are quite thoughtprovoking,” Hawketts said.

Wright said Films in the Valley provided seed funding to help the non-profit circuit start. All screenings will occur at 4 p.m. on the third Sunday of each month.

Hawketts said the seed money from Films in the Valley will help the circuit honour movie passes sold

by the former group before the arrival of the COVID pandemic.

A single screening ticket is $12 for adults and $7 for students. The circuit also offers flex passes, providing adult admittance to four movies for $40. The group’s goal is to cover its costs.

Hawketts said the River Valley Film Circuit has an agreement with the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), which provides the movies for a set fee and portion of ticket sales. While Atlantic Cinemas provided a good deal for the theatre rental, she said the circuit must also cover those fees.

Wright said board member Kendall Moir successfully approached several local businesses, which provided significant financial support.

The inaugural movie on Jan. 15 was “Peace By Chocolate,” a film based on the real-life story of Syrian

refugees to Canada who reestablished their chocolate-making business in Antigonish after arriving from their war-torn country.

The second movie, set for Feb. 19, is “Buffy SainteMarie: Carry It On.”

Wright said the documentary about the Canadian Indigenous singer-songwriter and activist garnered widespread praise from critics and audiences.

“She’s done everything,” he said.

The Mar. 19 screening features “Triangle of Sadness,” starring Woody Harrelson. Wright described it as a dark company about a yacht carrying rich people running into a storm.

“It’s a social commentary about rich people against staff,” he said.

On April 16, Wright said, the River Valley Film Circuit will screen “Living,” which includes a brilliant performance by British actor Bill Nighy.

On May 21, the circuit

will offer the acclaimed Korean film “Day 21: Decision to Leave,” which Hawketts described as a “whodunit.”

He said that since Parasite’s critical and box office success, Korean films are earning widespread interest.

Hawketts said the circuit had yet to select its films for the fall, choosing to decide after the award season.

Wright said that while he and Hawketts are film buffs, they consider themselves movie fans, not experts.

He said Doug Dickinson, a movie critic whose column ran across the province for several years and a regular at TIFF, and Moir serve as the circuit’s chief advisors.

“Doug and Kendall have very good instincts about these movies, and they run it by us,” Wright said.

While the circuit is awaiting award season to choose its fall lineup, its spring lineup has already taken home awards. Most

Village celebrates Christmas on a snowy Sunday evening Scenes from Meductic Christmas Lights parade

Residents of Meductic and surrounding communities, with special guests, Mr. and Mrs. Claus, celebrated the holiday season with a Christmas Light parade Sunday, Dec. 18.

“The weather was not ideal, but we had a good turnout for our little community,” said Beth Walker. “Everyone that participated did a wonderful job decorating and

always put forth a great effort with their entries. We had elves, gingerbread houses, grinches and more.”

The evening’s events ended with a gathering at the community centre, with activities such as cookie decorating and hot chocolate.

The children listened to the Christmas story and chatted with Santa and Mrs. Claus.

4 p.m. (Submitted

of the films and several actors, including Nighy, are receiving Oscar buzz.

In addition to Wright, Hawketts, Moir and Dickinson, other River Valley Film Circuit board members include Suzan Carsley and Lillian Warne.

RE/MAX Hartford Realty is a proud supporter of community journalism and the River Valley Sun.

RIVER VALLEY SUN

Santa and Mrs. Claus visit the Meductic Community Hall. (Beth Walker photo)

The parade added plenty of colour to the snowy night. (Beth Walker photo)

Members of the River Valley Film Circuit, from left, Suzan Carsley, James Wright, Jane Hawketts, Doug Dickinson, Kendall Moir and Lillian Warne, stand in front of Atlantic Cinemas, which host their movies on the third Sunday of each month at

photo)

COURT NEWS

A roundup of cases processed through Woodstock Provincial Court

By Judy Cole-Underhill

Decision reserved in sexual assault

A former mayor of Canterbury is awaiting sentence for sexual assault following a hearing in provincial court on Jan. 4.

Robert English, 72, pleaded guilty to the charge laid by RCMP after taking a male minor in his truck to a remote wooded area where he sexually assaulted him on Aug. 29, 2021.

Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean reserved his decision on sentence until Jan. 23 at 1:30 p.m.

Crown Prosecutor Bronwyn Mooney described the incident as a “serious sexual assault” that had a significant psychological impact on the victim, shattering his innocence and his dreams for the future.

“One hundred per cent – Mr. English needs to see the inside of a jail cell,” Mooney told the court. “The only suitable outcome for this offense is jail time. It has deeply impacted the victim and his family.”

Mooney recommended six to nine months in jail for the accused as well as probation. She requested English be ordered to register with the federal DNA database and the national registry for sex offenders. English had no prior criminal record.

Defence Counsel Patrick Hurley requested a conditional sentence of six to nine months of house arrest. He noted English is a senior who suffers from various physical and mental health issues, including an injury from an industrial accident in 2010, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and a recent diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease.

Hurley emphasized English had a positive presentence report, a stellar work history spanning 51 years at the Nackawic Mill, and a long record of community service, including 17 years as mayor of Canterbury. Hurley described the accused as a “low risk” for re-offending, noting English had followed all the conditions of his release since his arrest more than a year ago.

English did not apologize when he stood to address the court but said he was taking responsibility for the crime. He carried a cane in the courtroom and expressed concern about his health, telling the judge Parkinson’s disease

Judge McLean informed English two options lay ahead at his next court appearance, going home under house arrest or going to jail.

“When you come back, be prepared for both,” Judge McLean stated. 75 days for Kirkland man

People who refuse to stop for the police on the highway should expect to go to jail.

That was the message from Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean on Dec. 22 as he sentenced Jesse Thomas Henry, 26, of Kirkland, to a total of 75 days in provincial jail. Henry was also placed on probation for 12 months and prohibited from driving for six months.

Judge McLean said flight from police was rampant in the river valley and a message needed to be sent to those who try to outrun the police and threaten public safety. Henry fled from the RCMP and Woodstock Police during two separate incidents. He pleaded guilty to both offenses as well as several other charges.

Henry was arrested and remanded to provincial jail for a bail hearing and then released from custody with conditions. He was charged by Woodstock Police with flight from police, driving while suspended, and breach of his release order following an incident in Woodstock on Jan. 4.

RCMP also charged him with dangerous driving, flight from police, theft of a motor vehicle, possession of instruments for the purpose of committing theft, and breach of an undertaking in connection incidents in Jacksonville and Holmesville on Sept. 4, 2021. He pleaded guilty to the flight charge, theft of the vehicle, and breaching an undertaking. The crown withdrew the two remaining charges.

The court heard Henry was trying to “settle the score for a friend” when he stole a 2006 GMC Sierra in Holmesville on Sept. 4, 2021. Henry took the truck because his friend did not receive payment for working on the vehicle. Judge McLean handed him a suspended sentence for the theft.

The owner and his wife were on their way home when they spotted Henry heading down the highway with their truck. They chased him for several kilometers while calling police. A high speed chase en-

sued, reaching speeds up to 160 kilometers an hour, before police deployed a spike belt and caught up to both vehicles on Hopkins Road near Jacksonville.

The owner of the vehicle pulled Henry from the truck and assaulted him. The scuffle ended when police warned a taser would be used to break up the fight. Later that evening, police checked on Henry and found he was not at home. He eventually turned himself into police for breaching his curfew.

“Mr. Henry was motivated by loyalty for a friend and it spilled into something much bigger,” Judge McLean said. “There was no explanation for the second (incident).”

On Jan. 4, 2022, Woodstock Police attempted to stop a vehicle doing a u-turn around 2 a.m. in the downtown, but it sped away toward Jacksonville. RCMP was called to assist and found the vehicle in the ditch outside of town. They followed footprints to find Henry lying in the snow and suffering from frostbite to his hands. Later, police conducted another curfew check and again found he was not at home.

Henry had no prior criminal record but did have a record for motor vehicle offenses.

Meductic man guilty of sexual assault

James Fowler, 49, of Meductic, wept with emotion when he heard he was found guilty of sexual assault. Judge Leslie Jackson handed down his verdict on Dec. 23 and remanded Fowler into custody at provincial jail until his sentencing on March 7 at 1:30 p.m.

“You’re convicting me, really?” Fowler exclaimed. “I didn’t do anything to her. I don’t want to go to jail!”

Fowler continued to cry out as sheriffs put him in handcuffs and led him from the courtroom to jail. Fowler’s partner then fell to her knees in the courtroom and wept at the feet of Defence Counsel Michael Young. The defence lawyer spoke to his client before he left the court and then consoled his partner.

Fowler was charged by RCMP with sexual assault in connection with an incident on March 22, 2020, at Hartland. He pleaded not guilty and was committed to stand trial. After hearing summations from both the crown and defence counsel on Dec. 14, Judge Leslie Jackson reserved his deci-

sion until Dec. 23.

In handing down his verdict, Judge Jackson said there was sexual activity between Fowler and the female victim involved. However, he said there was no evidence of “communicated consent.” A lack of resistance on the part of the victim is not consent, Jackson explained.

“Acquiescence does not equate to communicated consent,” Jackson told the court.

The judge said the victim gave in to Fowler because she was scared he would hurt her, while Fowler was reckless or “knowingly blind to the fact” the woman did not communicate consent.

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

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

Judge Jackson told the court Fowler planned to have sex with the victim and the deal to buy tires from her was only a ruse. Once at her home, Fowler told her the tires were no good and he didn’t want to buy them.

The judge said testimony from Fowler during the trial was more like a movie script, while testimony from the victim was clear on lack of communicated consent. What she was wearing on the evening of the assault was irrelevant to the case, the judge said, and did not mean the accused could touch her at will.

Sentenced to time served Travis Terrance McDougall, 31, of Perth-Andover, was sentenced to 165 days in jail or time served when he appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Dec. 23. He pleaded guilty to several charges.

McDougall appeared in court on Sept. 9 for a bail hearing and waived his bail. He was charged with two counts of assault on two female victims, two counts of uttering threats, and committing mischief causing

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

property damage, concerning an incident on March 29, 2021, in Perth-Andover; assault on a female victim, uttering threats, resisting arrest, assaulting a police officer, and two counts of breach of an undertaking in connection with another incident on Aug. 13, 2021, in Perth-Andover. He pleaded guilty to eight of those charges.

The court heard McDougall was “strung out on drugs and lacking sleep” when he made a series of threats and committed assaults against family members during violent altercations at their adjacent apartments in Perth-Andover.

“Unfortunately, people often hurt the ones closest to them, especially when they are in a dark place,” said Defence Counsel Lindsay Paul.

McDougall also assaulted the police when they came to arrest him and he had to be tasered. The accused had a limited prior criminal record.

Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean placed McDougall on probation for 18 months and ordered him to keep the peace. The accused was released from custody and ordered to seek counseling and treatment for drug addiction. He must have no firearms in his possession during his probationary period.

McDougall told the court he was moving away from Perth-Andover and planned to return to work as soon as possible. Trial set for one accused in shooting, kidnapping

Timothy Grant, 30, of Canterbury, appeared in provincial court on Jan. 3 and pleaded not guilty to three charges, concerning an alleged kidnapping on Nov. 13, 2021, in Scott Siding.

Grant was charged by RCMP with using a handgun to kidnap Chris DeMerchant, unlawful confinement, and assault. His two-day trial was set for Sept. 6-7 at 9:30 a.m. He must also return to court on July 4 at 9:30 a.m. for monitoring to confirm he will be ready to proceed to trial.

A co-accused, Rodney Butler, 49, of Bulls Creek, will appear in provincial court on Jan. 24, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. for plea on eight charges, stemming from an alleged kidnapping and the shooting death of Christine Pelletier-Thibodeau a year ago.

Butler was charged by

RCMP with reckless discharge of a firearm, assault, uttering threats, using a handgun to kidnap Chris DeMerchant, unlawful confinement, possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace, possession of a firearm without a license, and illegal possession of a firearm in a vehicle, following an incident on Nov. 13, 2021, at Bulls Creek.

On Nov. 14, 2021, RCMP was called to the scene of a fatal shooting on Route 165 at Bulls Creek.

Pelletier-Thibodeau, 35, died as a result of her injuries. Over the next several days, police tape was erected around the property, including a residence surrounded by a vehicle salvage yard.

Trial set for Benton man

Edward Hayes, Jr., 27, of Benton, appeared in provincial court on Jan. 3 and pleaded not guilty to two charges laid by RCMP. A trial date was set for July 12 at 9:30 a.m. Hayes must also return to court on May 2 at 9:30 a.m. for monitoring to confirm he will be ready to proceed to trial.

Hayes was charged with sexual assault and unlawful confinement regarding an incident between May 18 and June 13, 2022, at Summerfield.

He changed his plea to guilty on a mischief charge stemming from a separate incident on June 17, 2022, in Woodstock when a holding cell was damaged. He will be sentenced for this offense at his court appearance on May 2.

Trial pending in attempted murder case

Jesse Lee Miller, 29, of Perth-Andover, appeared in provincial court on Jan. 4 for monitoring about his trial for attempted murder. He returns to court on March 7 at 9:30 a.m. for further monitoring. The court heard the crown is continuing to pursue further disclosure, including a forensic analysis of gunshot residue.

Miller appeared in provincial court in November when dates were set for his four-day trial. Judge Julian Dickson set the trial for March 22-24 at 9:30 a.m. and March 27 at 9:30 a.m.

Miller was released from custody in October under full house arrest with the consent of the crown. He is residing at a Perth Andover residence and was ordered to have no contact with the victim. He must also have no firearms in his posses-

“scares me.”

sion and also received an order to keep the peace.

Miller appeared in provincial court in custody by video last May and pleaded not guilty. He was denied bail and remanded.

Miller was charged by RCMP following a shooting in Hillandale, south of Perth-Andover. The incident involved a shotgun fired at another man walking along the roadside.

At approximately 11:20 a.m., on April 14, 2022, police responded to a report of shots fired near Route 130 and Beaconsfield Road. Police learned that an individual driving a white pickup truck pulled up to a man walking on the road and discharged a firearm at the man before fleeing the scene. The victim was transported to the hospital with serious injuries.

265 days in jail for Woodstock woman

Jane Anne Samms, 37, of Woodstock, made two separate appearances in provincial court this week and was sentenced to a total of 265 days in jail, minus 27 days remand credit.

On Jan. 5, Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean sentenced her to 10 days in jail for driving while suspended. On Jan. 6, she appeared before Judge Julian Dickson in custody by video and was sentenced to another 255 days in jail on nine more charges. She was also placed on probation for 12 months and ordered to seek counseling for mental health and addiction issues.

Woodstock Police charged Samms with driving while suspended, possession of a stolen vehicle, and flight from police in connection with an incident on Sept. 20, 2020, in Woodstock. She was also charged with breach of probation between Aug. 7 and Oct. 30, 2020, in Woodstock; theft from the Woodstock Superstore on May 20, 2022; breach of a release order on Oct. 11, 2022; and escaping lawful custody on Oct. 12, 2022. She pleaded guilty on all counts.

Samms was also found guilty after trial on three counts of driving while suspended for incidents on Oct. 1, 2021, Oct. 12, 2021, and Feb. 3, 2022, in Woodstock. She also had a prior record for motor vehicle offenses.

The court heard Samms was taken into police custody on Oct. 12, 2022, and transported to the Upper River Valley Hospital for a medical check. She

fled from the hospital on foot around 9 p.m. Police followed and initiated a search of the area.

Around 11 p.m., a truck driver reported seeing a woman wearing a hospital gown at the nearby Day & Ross terminal. Police responded and found Samms crawling on the ground where she had fallen into a patch of burdocks. She was taken back to the hospital and then to jail.

She appeared in provincial court in custody for a bail hearing and was released with conditions until her sentencing, including wearing an electronic monitoring device attached to her ankle. She was arrested on a warrant for failing to appear in court.

Samms was also charged with taking a vehicle without consent and breach of probation for another incident on March 6, 2021, in Woodstock.

She disputed the facts during her sentencing hearing on Jan. 4. The matter was then set for trial on April 12 at 9:30 a.m. A monitoring date was also scheduled for March 7 at 9:30 a.m.

Released with conditions

Jeffrey Bull, 44, of Newburg, appeared in provincial court in custody for a bail hearing on Jan. 6 and was released with conditions. He returns to court for plea on Feb. 7 at 9:30 a.m.

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

At an earlier court appearance, Bull was charged by RCMP with possession of stolen property (a 2012 Dodge Ram), stemming from an incident on Feb. 10, 2022, near Howard Brook. He is scheduled to enter a plea on that charge on Jan. 24 at 11 a.m.

Sentencing set for knife attack

Quincy Gosse, 45, of no fixed address, appeared in provincial court in custody on Dec. 16 and changed his plea to guilty on charges related to a knife attack on a woman in Juniper last summer.

Gosse pleaded guilty to aggravated assault causing bodily harm, possession of a weapon dangerous to the

public peace (a knife), and breach of an undertaking. Two other charges were withdrawn by the crown. He remains in custody and returns to court for sentencing on Feb. 2 at 11:30 a.m.

Crown Prosecutor Bronwyn Mooney told the court Gosse entered the victim’s residence in Juniper on June 4, 2022. At the time, he was under an order to have no contact with her. The woman was in the kitchen cooking supper when she turned and saw him with a knife. He grabbed her by the hair and cut her neck.

They began to wrestle over the knife. He let her go and she bolted from the house. He followed her outside and pinned her against a vehicle in the yard while still holding a knife.

Her neighbours arrived home. They heard the woman screaming and saw Gosse attacking her. They approached the scene and Gosse fled on foot. The woman was taken to hospital for treatment of a cut to her neck and hand.

The RCMP was summoned to the scene. Blood was found smeared on the hood of the vehicle, and on the front door, and a pool of blood was on the floor inside the house. A police dog was used to search the area for Gosse. He was later found by police hiding inside a closet at the victim’s residence.

Gosse told Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean he had little recollection of the incident. He was remanded until sentencing. Gosse also pleaded guilty to three other charges of assault, mischief, and uttering threats for another incident on April 12. He will also be sentenced on those charges on Feb. 2.

Found guilty of mischief, sentencing set

Joyce Boehler, 92, of Richmond Corner, was found guilty after trial on a mischief charge laid by RCMP. Judge Sebastian Michaud handed down his verdict in provincial court on Dec. 16. Boehler will return to court for sentencing on Feb. 2 at 9:30 a.m.

Boehler was charged with committing mischief by interfering with her neighbours’ lawful use and enjoyment of their property in connection with an incident on June 28, 2021, at Richmond Corner. She pleaded not guilty. One day of testimony was heard during her trial in November with the crown calling three witnesses, all neighbours of the accused. The defence did not call any evidence.

Judge Michaud reviewed the evidence prior to delivering his verdict. The court heard Boehler walked down a road near her neighbour’s residence and set up a folding lawn chair facing their house. She sat down and began blowing a basketball whistle multiple times, “sporadically and frequently,” for approximately 30 minutes. The incident was captured on her neighbours’ video and audio surveillance system.

Judge Michaud said Boehler was not in distress and was not whistling for help. He said she was yelling and blowing the whistle to deliberately bother her neighbours and this was a willful act of mischief. The incident ended when Boehler’s daughter drove up in a vehicle to take her mother home.

Her daughter, Laura Lee Boehler, 64, of Richmond Corner, is also facing numerous charges in relation to the same ongoing dispute with their neighbours. Her trial is scheduled for Jan. 18-20.

Debec man to stand trial for trafficking

Walter Patrick (Ricky) Michaud, 42, of Debec, appeared in provincial court in custody on Jan. 6 and pleaded not guilty to a drug trafficking charge. Trial dates were set for April 27 and May 4 at 9:30 a.m. He remains in custody.

Michaud was charged by RCMP with possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking, following an incident on March 11, 2022, in Teeds Mills. He was also charged with possession of stolen property (a 2013 Hyundai Elantra) as a result of the same incident. He pleaded not guilty at an earlier court appearance and the matter will go to trial at the same time as the trafficking charge.

Michaud also returns to court for plea by video on Jan. 31 at 11 a.m. on a long list of other charges laid by RCMP.

He was denied bail and remanded to jail in October on nine charges, stemming from the day of his arrest on Sept. 27, 2022, at Bull’s Creek, including possession of a firearm without a license (a Ruger 10/22 rifle), being an occupant of a vehicle knowing it carried a loaded gun, improper transport of a firearm, possession of a firearm dangerous to the public peace, flight from police, dangerous driving, assaulting a police officer while threatening to use a weapon (a vehicle), possession of stolen property (a Dodge Ram

truck), and resisting arrest.

He was also charged with flight from police, dangerous driving, and possession of stolen property (a Ford 150 half-ton) for another incident on Sept. 16, 2022, in Woodstock and assaulting a police officer with a weapon (a vehicle), flight from police, and dangerous driving on Sept. 18, 2022, in Meductic.

Michaud also faces charges of assaulting a woman in Debec on Aug. 27, 2022. He is under court order not to have contact with the victim. Other charges include assaulting a police officer while threatening to use a weapon (a bush saw) and resisting arrest on Sept. 6, 2022, in Debec.

Sentencing set for impaired driving

Samuel Dean Walton, 38, of Rockland, will appear for sentencing in provincial court on April 4, 2023, at 1:30 p.m. after pleading guilty to impaired driving.

Walton was charged by Woodstock Police in connection with an incident on July 14 in Woodstock. The court heard police received two separate reports about an impaired driver behind the wheel of a grey Honda Civic.

One witness reported seeing the vehicle travelling on the wrong side of the highway and almost hitting a sign on Connell Street near the Canadian Tire Store.

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

Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean released Walton on an undertaking and imposed a driving prohibition until his sentencing. The accused was represented by Defence Counsel Peter Hyslop.

Witness fails to appear, case dismissed

Curtis Varney, 64, of Canterbury, was found not guilty when he appeared in provincial court in custody by video for the duration of his trial on Jan. 5.

A direct verdict was made after a critical crown witness failed to appear, resulting in the case being dismissed. Earlier testimony took place during trial proceedings in July and August of 2022.

Varney was charged by RCMP with invitation to touching for a sexual purpose involving a female minor and sexual assault in connection with an incident

that occurred at Marne between Jan. 1, 2008, and Jan. 18, 2017. He pleaded not guilty to both charges. Varney is currently serving a federal prison sentence for other matters.

Two in custody following police chase

Patrick James Denny, 27, of Perth Andover, and Peter Johnston, 29, of Woodstock, remain in custody at provincial jail. They have yet to enter pleas on charges related to a police chase near Woodstock First Nation.

Johnston will return to court in custody for plea on Jan. 17 at 11:15 a.m. Denny will appear in court in custody for plea on Jan. 12 at 1:30 p.m.

Denny was charged with possession of stolen property over $5,000, two counts of unauthorized possession of a firearm, assaulting a police officer, assault with a weapon, resisting arrest, possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace, unsafe storage of a firearm, possession of a firearm while prohibited, and being an occupant of a vehicle knowing it carried a firearm.

Johnston was charged with possession of stolen property over $5,000, two counts of unauthorized possession of a firearm, resisting arrest; possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace, unsafe storage of a firearm, fleeing police, dangerous driving, possession of a firearm while prohibited, and being an occupant of a vehicle knowing it carried a firearm.

The two men were arrested following a short vehicle and foot pursuit on Hodgdon Road on Nov. 15, 2022. They were taken into custody in connection with a stolen vehicle (a 2011 Hyundai Elantra). The vehicle was involved in a pursuit by the Woodstock Police Force. RCMP members assisted in locating the vehicle, which again fled from police.

Following a short pursuit, the vehicle got stuck on the on-ramp between Hodgdon Road and the four-lane highway. Both suspects attempted to flee the scene on foot and were apprehended. Police seized two loaded and unsecured firearms, several rounds of ammunition, drugs, and a cell phone.

Denny and Johnston both appeared in court in custody on Nov. 21, 2022.

Denny waived his bail, while Johnston reserved his right to a bail hearing until a later date. Denny was on parole from federal prison when he was arrested.

IN FOCUS

Putting the Spotlight on People in Your Community Community

news from in and around Nackawic

Bowling, art, learning lunches, donations, and music

By Julie Stone Bowling

A “Casual Bowling” experience will be held on Mondays beginning on Jan. 16 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. A fee of $10 pays for three games and your shoes. This is not a league, but a drop-in event and no experience is necessary. For more information, email nackawicareawellness@ gmail.com or call Ron Roy at 506-575-8951.

Water Colours

The Gathering Place is hosting watercolour painting classes starting on Friday, Jan. 13, at 2 p.m. There will not be a class in February, but classes will begin again in March. Eileen Yeker, artist and former teacher at Nackawic High School, will lead the

lessons. There is no fee, and all materials will be provided. Just come into The Gathering Place and give it a try. You may turn out to be an artist extraordinaire!

Lunch with a Purpose

Be a part of the ‘Lunch Bunch.’ At noon on Feb. 3, ‘Lunch with a Purpose’ will be held at the Curling Club. During this luncheon, you will learn how to make a winter floral arrangement with Pam Wilson Sydor of Magnolia Boutique & Container Gardening and Amy Cronkhite of Nackawic’s Secret Garden. Lunch is by donation, but you must register so that the correct amount of supplies can be purchased. Register by email: nackawicareawellness@gmail.com or sign up at The Gathering Place (a sign-up sheet will be dis-

played near the front). You can also go to The Gathering Place’s Facebook page – search the Nackawic Senior Drop-In Centre – and leave your name there.

The Gathering Place

A good number of people take advantage of the Drop-In Centre, with an average of 25 visitors daily. The visitors are not all there simultaneously but move in and out as the day progresses. New friendships are being formed, and some people are reconnecting after being isolated during COVID. Masks and sanitation supplies are at the door, and chairs are spaced around the room. Donations of food and beverages have been constant, and it has come to the point where we can safely say we have enough

coffee and tea to do us for quite a while.

Donations

The Age-Friendly Committee appreciates the support it is receiving from the community in terms of in-kind and financial donations. This month we wish to thank Greg Mercer of Nicolson and Beaumont CPA LLP, Andy Fox of McLaughlin Overhead Doors Ltd., Zach Eldridge, and Jeff Clark of Clark’s Pioneering Co. Ltd. for their financial assistance. We would also like to thank Mark Cormier of CORE Panel and Truss for donating and installing a set of overhead cupboards for the kitchen. They are truly appreciated!

Ukulele Anyone?

The Wellness Group is looking for a musician who plays the Ukulele and

would be willing to teach a small group of people to play. These folks are not asking to become professionals but want to learn the basics to amuse themselves. If you or someone you know plays the Ukulele, please contact Julie Stone at 506-575-8312 or email macston@rogers. com.

Food Safety

A Food Safety Program will be held on Saturday,

Jan. 21, at the Nackawic Lions Community Centre. While the course is free, you must send an etransfer of $20 to nackawicareawellness@gmail.com to confirm your spot. The fee will be refunded on the training day. This course is open to all, but the class size cannot exceed 18, so register as soon as possible. Registration will be confirmed once you send the e- transfer.

The Carleton Manor ‘Stitch Club’ has been busy!

IN A ‘MANOR’ OF SPEAKING

By Jane Jones

Members and friends of the Carleton Manor Stitch Club have had a busy and rewarding fall and are looking forward to starting stitching again in 2023.

Assisted by Activity Coordinators Brenda G and Leah A, members of the Stitch Club gather in the Activity Centre every Tuesday morning.

They’ve completed two projects recently. In August and September, their focus was on stitching purses.

For the fall, they set their sights on the upcoming holiday season and chose to make braided fabric Christmas wreathes.

Neighbour Brenda B recalled that making the wreaths was very enjoyable.

She noted that each piece had to be sewn and stuffed before being braided in the resulting creation.

“We were delighted with the wreaths because we got our hands and hearts into the work. We were stuffing and transforming pieces of material into these beautiful works of art,” she said.

Brenda reminisced that many Neighbours

kept their wreaths to put on their doors, and some gave them away as gifts.

Brenda’s husband wanted hers for his house, which thrilled

Jane Jones volunteers with the Carleton Manor in Woodstock.

Brenda and made her feel very special.

Top, left: Neighbour Brenda B shows us the purse she stitched in the fall of 2022. (Jane Jones photo) Above, left: Neighbours Mike D, Elva W and Linda W stuff tubes of material with batting that will ultimately transform into a Christmas wreath. (Leah A photo) Above, right: Neighbour Dianne C displays the wreath that she made in the Carleton Manor Stitch Club. (Jane Jones photo)

Don Peabody: A tribute to one of the good ones

Don leaves a legacy of caring volunteerism and thoughtful prose

RIVER VALLEY SUN

We were saddened to learn of the passing of Carleton County’s Don Peabody on Jan. 5, 2023, at the age of 81.

Don was a friend of the River Valley Sun, but in reality, Don was a friend to everyone.

Don worked with Day & Ross for 40-plus years. Before that, he was well known in his position at CJCJ Radio, where he got the nickname “Tangled Tonsils.”

He was a volunteer, a little league and hockey coach, drove the bus for the Shiretowners ball team, and did play-byplay of the games. Don was a board member of the Woodstock Sports Wall of Fame, and the NB Safety Council, receiving an award for Safety Person of the Year from the Atlantic Trucking Association, as well as a certificate of appreciation for his significant contributions to the development and growth of the transportation programs at NBCC.

Don worked with the Slammers hockey team, but he may have been best known for his role as Santa Helper, dressing as the ‘Big Guy’ each year, visiting patients at the hospital, as well as making special visits to many people’s homes, delighting children and adults alike.

We knew him as the ‘antique engine guy’ and a talented poet, but everyone knew him as a wonderful human being who was always quick to lend a hand.

We would like to extend our condolences to his wife Diane, daughter Karen, and sons Hazen and Clay, as well as his granddaughter Kailie, brothers Stephen, Graham, Syd, and sister Louise, as well as his extend-

ed family and friends.

In July of 2022, Andrew McCormick wrote about Don in his “Speaking of Sports” column.

We thought we’d post it here, along with the poem that we printed with the piece.

Thank you for everything, Don. Your kindness, community spirit, and jolly elf-ness will be greatly missed.

Arena. It was a given to see Diane and Don each Friday evening at the major fundraiser for the baseball team.

Spring Leafs

By Don Peabody (Penned May 16, 2022)

There’s a guy who cleans the dressing room; he’s been doing it for years

He’s got a special sponge mop for soaking up the tears

He wonders at the way things work; the wonder of it all

SPEAKING OF

SPORTS Don Peabody: Woodstock sports ‘glue guy,’ master organizer, poet, and Santa

By Andrew McCormick July 2022

If it was a significant sport happening somewhere in and around Carleton County in the past few decades, Don Peabody’s fingerprints were likely on it.

I’ve known Don, his wife Diane, his daughter Karen and his son Hazen for almost 50 years. Then, in my six-year-old eyes, Don was simply a Hockey Dad to my buddy Hazen.

Years later, as I count the rings on Father Time, I discover Don Peabody is so much more than a Hockey Dad.

Let’s dive in. The “voice of the Shiretowners,” Peabody was the public address announcer for senior baseball at Connell Field back in the day. When CJCJ broadcast “Shiretowner Baseball” across valley airwaves, Don performed double duty teaming with Bruce Smith to provide impeccable and entertaining play-by-play action.

A dedicated army of volunteers drove the Intermediate and Senior Shiretowners of the 70s and early 80s.

“Shiretowner Bingo” was held each Friday night in a smoke-filled pavilion at the Community

At games in the canteen, you’d see Diane again, with daughter Karen serving up steamed hot dogs and pop. Let’s throw in the fact a young Hazen was the batboy for the senior squad. The Peabody family was significant in the team’s operation.

Back to Don. He’s been there and done that. He’s a “glue guy” every team needs to be a success. He’s like a Swiss Army knife — willing and able to perform any role necessary. Roles such as bus driver, transportation manager, field maintenance, equipment manager, laundry duties, and transporting injured players to the hospital, among others.

A master organizer, he’s lent his time to Woodstock Minor Hockey and Baseball, Richmond Corner Rec Council, Florenceville Potato Kings, and is a current member of the Woodstock Wall of Fame board and the Old Flywheel Guys. Peabody was a behindthe-scenes staple with our Woodstock Junior A Slammers.

Perhaps no volunteer act has been any more important than the fact that for over 30 years, Don has been Santa Claus at the Carleton Memorial and Upper River Valley Hospital. That tops anyone’s resume. (Santa has been interrupted by COVID the past couple of years).

Finally, it’s my pleasure to turn things over to the literary talents of Mr. Peabody. Don’s love for his Montreal Canadiens and related despise for the Toronto Maple Leafs inspired his most recent poem.

While other leaves come out in spring; these Leafs just seem to fall

He sees the sweaters hanging there; so lonely in their stall

He wonders who will wear them; when the season starts next fall

Yes, there will be another season; and all their hopes will soar

‘Till spring comes slowly creeping ‘round; and the Leafs will fall once more

Thanks for everything, Don.

The feeling of home in an active retirement community. That’s Riverside Court! We take care of everything! Call Carolyn at (506) 325-7507 to arrange a tour today!

Riverside has many opportunities to come together and socialize!

Residents enjoy time in our dining room,with great food and great conversation. Call Carolyn today! 870 Main Street Woodstock, N.B.

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32 Softsuds Carwash on the Houlton Road and on Connell Street in Woodstock are proud supporters of community journalism and the River Valley Sun.