RVS Jan 2024 Vol 6 Iss 1

RIVER VALLEY SUN

Cemetery fire victim identified, name not released

Woodstock Police determine no foul play, said victim was not ‘homeless’

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Woodstock Police Force announced on Jan. 10 that investigators identified the victim of the Monday, Jan. 8 fatal shed fire at a Woodstock cemetery.

“In the interest of providing timely updates and transparency, the Woodstock Police Force is releasing the following information to keep the public informed about the ongoing investigation into the sudden death, which was the result of a shed fire at the Methodist Cemetery property in Woodstock,” Deputy Chief Mark Bennett

said in a press release early Wednesday afternoon.

Bennett said the police will not immediately release the name.

“The victim has been identified; however, at this time, we are refraining from releasing the victim’s identity pending notifications to the next of kin,” Bennett explained. “This is a crucial step in ensuring that the family is informed of this tragic incident before details are made public.

Bennett said investigators don’t suspect foul play in the victim’s death at this time, adding the incident

does not pose a threat to the public.

“The Woodstock Street Crime and Integrated Enforcement Units have worked to assess the circumstances, and we can confirm that there is no indication of criminality involved,” he said in the release.

With rumours running rampant throughout the community that the death involved a homeless person, Bennett’s release said that was not the case.

“Our investigators have

See FATAL FIRE pg. 2

Kidnap victim witnessed fatal shooting at Bulls Creek

By Judy Cole-Underhill

AScott Siding man told the court he feared for his life when Rodney Butler pointed a gun at his head and talked about butchering him like a wild animal.

Chris Demerchant, 53, testified in Woodstock Provincial Court for a full day on Jan. 11. He described how he was kidnapped at gunpoint, pistol-whipped around the head, and taken to Butler’s home at Bulls Creek, where he believed he would meet

his death.

Butler, 49, of Bulls Creek, was charged by RCMP with reckless discharge of a firearm, indictable 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 licence, and illegal possession of a firearm in a vehicle on Nov. 13, 2021, at Bulls Creek.

“He held a gun to my

head and told me a human being skinned out looks like a bear skinned out,” Demerchant told the court. “I feared for my life.”

About 40 minutes later, Butler’s partner, Christine PelletierThibodeau, 35, was shot at the scene and died as a result of her injuries. Over the next several days, police tape was erected around the property, including Butler’s residence, which is surrounded by a vehicle

salvage yard.

Clutching his hat in his hand, Demerchant spoke calmly from the witness stand and went through the events of the day ending in PelletierThibodeau’s death. He testified he was sitting at home at his kitchen table with two friends when Butler and PelletierThibodeau arrived just after supper.

Butler was angry. He stabbed a knife into the

See KIDNAP on page 2

Rodney Butler and his late partner Christine PelletierThibodeau. (Submitted photo)

Police and fire investigators examine the scene of a fatal fire Monday morning, Jan. 8, of a shed at the Methodist Cemetery near Broadway Street in Woodstock. (Jim Dumville photo)

FATAL FIRE

Continued from page 1

also been able to determine that the victim was not homeless,” he said. “This information is essential in shaping our understanding of the situation moving forward.”

He expressed condolences on behalf of the Woodstock Police Force to the family and friends of the deceased during this

KIDNAP

Continued from page 1

table, head-butted Demerchant in the face and pulled out a handgun.

“I said I don’t know who you are,” Demerchant recalled. “He went crazy. He lost his mind.” At the time, Demerchant and Butler were close friends and worked together tearing apart old vehicles for scrap metal. The day before the shooting, Demerchant and another friend, Ryan Purvis (now deceased), were in Butler’s yard when an argument began at the end of the driveway.

Butler and Purvis were yelling at each other about a licence plate. In his statement to the police, Demerchant said he heard Purvis make threats toward Butler. Purvis then left on foot and caught a ride back to Demerchant’s home in Scott Siding. Purvis was living there at the time.

The next day, Butler and Pelletier-Thibodeau arrived at Demerchant’s home looking for Purvis. Demerchant told them Purvis was up the road in the woods near Benton jump-starting a car. The two men had spent the day cutting fir tips. Butler said he wanted to go find Purvis.

“He told me I was going with him,” Demerchant testified.

He said he was led out of his home by Butler at gunpoint while Pelletier-Thibodeau followed close behind.

Demerchant said they loaded him into the backseat of PelletierThibodeau’s Ford Escape. Butler sat next to him. As the vehicle started moving, Butler pistol-whipped Demer -

difficult time.

Woodstock police responded to the fire scene on Cemetery Street, near Broadway, at 6:27 a.m. Monday, Jan. 8.

The Woodstock Fire Department responded to the early morning fire call and successfully extinguished the blaze.

“During the inspection of the structure after the fire,” Woodstock police explained in its Monday news chant around the head with a nine-millimetre handgun and threatened to shoot him in the knee.

Thibodeau was behind the wheel while Butler’s friend, Timothy Grant, was in the front passenger seat.

A few minutes later, they pulled into the wooded area where Purvis was. Butler got out of the vehicle, and Demerchant heard a series of 10 gunshots. Then, Demerchant saw Purvis speed off in the van he had borrowed to boost his car. Butler returned to the backseat of the Ford Escape, and they raced off after Purvis toward Scott Siding.

Demerchant said he was “dazed up” and bleeding profusely when he looked up from the backseat and saw he was back home. There was no sign of Purvis. He saw his van parked in the driveway go into reverse, strike a mailbox and go into a ditch.

Demerchant said he tried to get out of the Ford Escape at that point, but Timothy Grant “cross-checked him,” and he fell to the ground. He said Butler, PelletierThibodeau, and Grant then attacked him with their boots.

“I took a shit-kicking on the road,” Demerchant told the court. “It was a pretty good beating.”

Demerchant struggled to his feet, and they loaded him back into the Ford Escape. Butler was next to him again in the backseat. PelletierThibodeau was still driving with Timothy Grant in the front passenger seat. They headed for Earle DeLong’s residence at Dead Creek.

Once there, everyone

release, the body of one person was discovered, leading the Woodstock Police Force to initiate an investigation into a sudden death.”

The Woodstock Police Force is collaborating with the NB Coroner Service, NB Fire Marshal’s Office, Woodstock Fire Department, RCMP K-9, and the Fredericton Police Force Forensic Identification Section to determine the

went inside. Butler told Demerchant to go wash the blood off his face. Then Butler took him to the kitchen and sat him on the floor. PelletierThibodeau began poking Demerchant with a shotgun and threatened to cut his throat. Other people were in the room at the time, but no one said a word about what was happening.

A few minutes later, Butler, PelletierThibodeau, and Demerchant climbed back into the Ford Escape and drove to Bulls Creek, about 20 minutes away. This time, Timothy Grant was not in the vehicle, having left the area on foot.

“I asked them to take me home,” Demerchant said about the ride to Bulls Creek. “I said this is crazy.”

At Butler’s residence, they all went into the basement. Demerchant sat on a wooden chair in the dark. He had a beer with them and waited. Butler kept the handgun on him while PelletierThibodeau continued to jab him with a shotgun. He looked around the room and saw another gun and some hand grenades, noting Butler was ex-military. His phone rang. It was his brother, Troy Demerchant.

“They told me to tell him I’m alright, don’t worry about it,” Demerchant testified. “I did because I had a gun to the side of my head.”

Soon after the phone call, Troy Demerchant drove into Butler’s driveway in his truck. Troy Demerchant shouted for Butler. In response, Pelletier-Thibodeau and Butler both opened fire into the yard. Suddenly, Pelletier-Thibodeau was

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.

source and cause of the fire.

The Woodstock Police Force encourages anyone in the area at the time of the fire or may have information to contact them at (506) 325-4601.

The public can provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure Mobile App, or Secure Web Tips at www.crimenb.ca.

hit.

“When she got shot, everything went silent,” Chris Demerchant testified. “That’s when I got out of there.”

As Demerchant ran past PelletierThibodeau, he testified he heard her say: “You shot me, Rodney.”

“He shot her in the back of the neck,” Demerchant told the court.

Demerchant said he went outside and ran down the driveway. His brother, Troy, was still under gunfire when he yelled for him to call 911. Demerchant said he took refuge in a ditch and then went to a neighbour to get a ride home to Scott Siding.

There was no one home when he arrived. He sat by his video surveillance monitor, watched and waited. The next day, the RCMP was in his yard. They took him to the police station. Paramedics checked him and later went to the hospital for treatment of his injuries. He said his recovery was long and painful.

Chris Demerchant admitted he had a prior criminal record. Several photos of his head, neck and facial injuries were entered into evidence

IN CRISIS?

Here are

by the crown, along with other images of a bloody backseat in the Ford Escape, the yard and basement at Butler’s residence and the area outside Demerchant’s house in Scott Siding.

Under cross-examination, Demerchant testified he did not hear any exchange of gunfire even though a window in a door leading to Butler’s basement was shattered as if someone had shot at the house. Demerchant said he did not know if Purvis was outside with his brother. After Pelletier-Thibodeau was shot, he said he ran for safety. He could still hear gunfire behind him as he fled toward the road.

Demerchant said he did not think his brother arrived at Butler’s with a firearm. He identified his brother’s truck in the police photos, noting the bullet holes it sustained on Butler’s property. He

told the court his brother was arrested and held in custody following the shooting but was later released. To date, Troy Demerchant has never been charged in relation to the incident.

Under redirect from the crown, Chris Demerchant clarified the bullets were flying “from the inside out,” and he reiterated that Butler never offered to let him go at any time.

The trial resumes on Jan. 31 at 9:30 a.m. with further testimony on police evidence. Crown Prosecutors Rodney Jordan and Bronwyn Mooney and Defence Counsel Alex Pate led the trial proceedings on Jan. 11 before Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean.

To read the complete story, which includes two days of testimony in December, visit our website at rivervalleysun.ca.

River Valley Sun: Box 1000, Woodstock, NB, E7M 0E9, (506) 325-2552

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter: Jim Dumville, (506) 325-8523, jim@rivervalleysun.ca

Publisher/Managing Editor: Theresa Blackburn, (506) 324-5700, theresa@rivervalleysun.ca

Publisher/Distribution Manager: Stephen Chisholm (506) 324-5711 www.rivervalleysun.ca ISSN # 2562-3893

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Hartland Mayor Tracey DeMerchant

Looking back at 2023’s highlights, and what’s in store for the municipality in 2024

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Before the New Year, the River Valley Sun reached out to elected officials in our coverage area to reflect on the past year and look at plans and challenges for the coming year.

Here is Hartland Mayor Tracey DeMerchant’s response to our questions regarding her community.

RVS: What were the council highlights in 2023?

TD: Highlights include the opportunities we’ve had working with developers who are interested in building in Hartland, working with Carleton North regarding policing review, and continued development of strategic

planning.

Another highlight was meeting with ACOA, Tourism NB, and others to have a round table discussion and give a tour of Hartland for future projects.

I have the great pleasure of working with a hard-working council and dedicated community leaders.

RVS: Going forward, what are your challenges, and what are the council’s top priorities for 2024?

TD: Priorities include working with Horizon and the Western Valley Regional Service Commission to bring doctors and nurse practitioners to the River Valley.

We also want to continue working on projects on the waterfront.

Our top priorities are finishing the Central Carleton Community Complex, which we hope will open for the 2024 hockey season.

We also need to improve and replace the town’s aging infrastructure and strive for more engagement with developers.

RVS: What should the province’s plans for financial restructuring include for municipalities?

TD: The province should deal more directly with the CAO and administration when it comes to formulas, grants and taxation.

A more realistic and fair approach would benefit our municipalities.

RVS: Policing has been a core focus for your council since the election. If you are unable to get the province’s okay to start a municipal police force, what other options do you have?

TD: Our policing review committee has worked diligently, had public engagement and is now waiting for the province to review our proposal.

Should the proposed new police model not go forward, we will continue to work toward ensuring our citizens are receiving a protective, quality police service.

Nackawic-Millville Mayor Tim Fox

Looking back at 2023’s highlights, and what’s in store for the municipality in 2024

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Before the New Year, the River Valley Sun reached out to elected officials in our coverage area to reflect on the past year and look at plans and challenges for the coming year.

Here is NackawicMillville Mayor Tim Fox’s response to our questions regarding his community.

RVS: What were the council highlights in 2023?

TF: Our council hit their stride quickly after municipal reform and amalgamation of the former village of Millville and the town of Nackawic and LSDs of Southampton, Queensbury and Dumfries.

We had a number of projects and initiatives early out of the gate in January, such as the Destination Nackawic Smallmouth Open, the Millville ball field project, and a number of infrastructure projects in and around the Nackawic ward.

We were also the

first community in New Brunswick to receive funding under the government of New Brunswick Housing for All strategy to complete planning, pre-engineering and geotechnical work on our proposed housing development.

RVS: Going forward, what are your challenges, and what are the council’s top priorities for 2024?

TF: Being a smaller rural community, inflationary increases in the costs of almost everything the municipality does is a challenge.

Our council has been proactive in recognizing that tax base and population growth are the best way to meet those increasing demands on our citizen’s tax dollars.

Our focus will begin to concentrate more on marketing the community as a great place to live, work and raise a family.

RVS: What should the province’s plans for financial restructuring in -

clude for municipalities?

TF: Any financial restructuring considered by the province should include an approach that focuses a bit more on supporting communities rather than regions. With municipal reform, there are a number of new demands on communities that are best dealt with locally rather than regionally.

We collectively need to look at how the balance of tax revenue is distributed amongst the province, regional service commissions and local municipalities.

RVS: Housing has become a core focus for your council. What is the immediate and longterm housing focus for your rural community?

TF: Our council has invested a great deal of time and effort in our own housing development proposal, but we have also supported other private developments.

In 2024, we will be looking at other ways to increase opportunities to

densify our population. For example, zoning and bylaws will be reviewed to ensure that our municipality is optimizing its opportunities for increasing housing.

RVS: You’ve invested heavily in your waterfront over the last several years? What are the next steps for waterfront development?

TF: We will continue to explore our options for the next phase of development on the waterfront. Future development will focus on adding additional value and increased usage of our waterfront assets.

Woodstock

The local AA group “Living Free” meet at the St. Luke’s Parish Hall at 104 Church Street, Woodstock at 7 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. For more information, please call 1-800-340-4966 or email meetinglist@district5aa.ca

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Hartland Mayor Tracey DeMerchant. (Theresa Blackburn photo)

Nackawic-Millville Mayor Tim Fox. (Jim Dumville photo)

Southern Victoria Mayor Cindy McLaughlin

Looking back at 2023’s highlights, and what’s in store for the municipality in 2024

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Before the New Year, the River Valley Sun reached out to elected officials in our coverage area to reflect on the past year and look at plans and challenges for the coming year.

Here is Southern Victoria Mayor Cindy McLaughlin’s response to our questions regarding her community.

RVS: What were the council highlights in 2023?

CM: — Navigating the transition between being a small village to the new combined Southern Victoria — 2023-2026 Strategic Plan Development - 6 Key Focus Areas - Healthcare, Public Safety, Economic Development and Tourism, Green Initiatives, Municipal Services, and Capital Asset Management.

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.

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 Wednesdays at 7 p.m. This is a women-only group, providing a safe place for women struggling with family members whose lives are being destroyed by drug abuse. For info: contact Natasha Smith at 323-9315. Harvest House also offers other recovery programs. For more info, contact them at (506) 594-5000.

*IN AN EMERGENCY, CALL 911

— Development of a Solar Project in the industrial park.

— Approval of funding for flood mitigation to raise the Andover Well House, water and sewer line extension, and development of a new municipal building out of the flood zone area.

— Approval for funding to support housing support for VGM staffing.

— Support for amazing special events such as the Hullabaloo Music Festival, Scots Festival, Tough Muck Competition, Winter Fest, and the Dam Run.

RVS: Going forward, what are your challenges, and what are the council’s top priorities for 2024?

CM: — Continue to work with Horizon to retain and grow professional medical services for Southern Victoria

— Increase investment in key areas such as public safety, critical infrastructure, and green initiatives.

— Implement a housing strategy that fosters new residential construction.

— Power Distribu -

tion and Consumption —increases in NB power rates and changes at Tinker Dam (Algonquin)

— Implement action items from the Strategic Plan.

— Develop a longterm capital asset management plan for the Aroostook Water network.

RVS: What should the province’s plans for financial restructuring include for municipalities?

CM: Significantly increased pool of funding municipalities.

— Provide municipalities access to funding for investments in critical infrastructure.

— The province should review the downloading costs/oversight of provincial responsibilities to municipalities via the Regional Service Commissions.

— While Southern Victoria supports varied models of healthcare service delivery, the province should recognize that the rural populations are underserved.

RVS: With your community having the unique position of owning its own power util -

ity (Perth-Andover Light Commission), how much of a benefit is that for your region as power rates spike across the province? And what plans do you have for the commission’s future?

CM: — The Light Commission continues to be a viable asset for Southern Victoria. The utility is projected to save our customers and taxpayers over $350,000 in 2024.

— We look forward to

our solar project coming online in early 2024.

— Exploring the benefit of expanding our electrical services to all residents in Southern Victoria.

— Several changes on the horizon (power rate increases, potential ownership change of Algonquin) indicate that management of the utility will be an area of focus. The mayor and council consider this a key priority.

Southern Victoria Mayor Cindy McLaughlin. (Submitted photo)

Woodstock Mayor Trina Jones

Looking back at 2023’s highlights, and what’s in store for the municipality in 2024

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Before the New Year, the River Valley Sun reached out to elected officials in our coverage area to reflect on the past year and look at plans and challenges for the coming year.

Here is Woodstock Mayor Trina Jones’ response to our questions regarding her community.

RVS: What were the Council highlights in 2023?

TJ: The council worked well together this year and I’m proud of that, especially being a relatively new council overall.

One main focus was analyzing current staffing levels and organizational structure to ensure we have the right staffing support to be well-positioned to grow and succeed in providing the levels of service our community members expect.

We did a lot of assessing, a lot of listening, and the result was some modifications to the organizational structure and the addition of some staff this year that we felt were necessary to both stabilize current operations and position ourselves for future and budgeting for some additional staff in 2024. We are still analyzing gaps that exist into 2024, which may lead to further changes.

RVS: Going forward, what are your challeng -

es, and what are the council’s top priorities for 2024?

TJ: Council will be working together to set our goals for 2024 in January, but we are already working on a few top goals.

We are aiming to have a coordinated approach with all five wards for Emergency Measures Orders, ensuring we have at minimum power and/or warming centres in an emergency throughout our community identified and prepared to operate in power outages with proper communications plans for the community.

We will be strategically planning in the first quarter and likely into the second quarter of the year for future recreational, arts and cultural needs, as well as for infrastructure maintenance and upgrades for water, sewer, stormwater systems, and roads.

We will also be placing a large focus on development needs for housing in our community and working with our local developers to revisit current incentives and barriers preventing development to determine how to best work together to support the building of all types of housing.

RVS: What should the province’s plans for financial restructuring include for municipalities?

TJ: We rely largely on property tax revenue for our main revenue stream. Affordability is a challenge for many community members, and we don’t want to continue to have to rely only on raising property taxes to maintain current services and pay for additional services that have been handed down to the Regional Service Commissions and at the local level.

We need the province to commit to providing municipalities with a permanent additional revenue stream. That could be from an increased portion of the commercial tax, portions of taxes from cannabis sales, liquor sales, HST or other sources.

RVS: In Woodstock, the overall assessment went up by nine per cent, and then you raised taxes by 5 cents per $100 of assessment for the old town boundaries (Ward 4). You cited higher staffing, wage and policing costs in 2024 as primary reasons for the increase. What should taxpayers expect in the coming year, financially?

TJ: In 2023 we’ve hired an additional two net new positions. A new Director of Human Resources for one full new position; a new Director of Utility (splitting the combo role from Greg Stokes, who is now solely Director of Public Works instead of

both) for a net new half position and a new CAO (splitting the role from former CAO Andrew Garnett who was doing both CAO and Director of Development and Planning) for a net new half position.

For 2024, we have budgeted for, but not yet hired, three WPF officer positions, a recreational coordinator role at the AYR Motor Centre (in the hiring process now), and we have budgeted for three seasonal labourers in Utility and three seasonal labourers in public works. Those positions would not be hired until April of this year. The details around those jobs are not yet solidified but the money is budgeted for them. The other contributing factors to the over -

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all increase in wages in operating costs was an overall increase in wages for 2023 of three per cent for all employees, and another three per cent for all employees in January of 2024, both of which were previously agreed upon. There are no further automatic increases set for the future.

NOTE: The River Valley Sun also asked Mayor Jones about resolving ongoing problems at Woodstock’s second water source. The mayor said she hopes to make a public announcement as early as February addressing the problems, solutions and costs of resolving the well issue.

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Woodstock Mayor Trina Jones. (Submitted photo)

After challenging inaugural year, mayor says council ready for 2024

Carleton North’s Andrew Harvey says district striving to improve policing, economy

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Mayor Andrew Har -

vey recognizes the challenges behind and ahead for council as the District of Carleton North begins its second year.

Looking back to 2023, Harvey admits the amalgamated community which combined the town of Florenceville-Bristol, villages of Bath and Centreveille, and surrounding local service districts “faced a lot of challenges.”

At the same time, he added, the council made a “lot of progress.”

As part of a year-end wrap-up, the River Valley Sun sent questionnaires to area mayors and provincial and federal politicians. Harvey responded with a request for a phone interview.

In the interview, Harvey reflected on Carleton North’s first year and detailed the district council’s goal for 2024.

On the positive side, Carleton North celebrated the opening of the newly expanded Northern Carleton Civic Centre and welcomed the provincial government’s long-awaited announcement that it would repair and reopen the historic Old Florenceville Bridge.

Unfortunately, the council dealt with the dismissal or resignation of most of its top administrative staff, the resignation of one council member and complaints

about ineffective police coverage.

“There were bumps along the road,” Harvey said, “but that’s normal for a transition year.”

Despite the challenges, the mayor described 2023 as a “year of change, a year of growth.”

Harvey said the staff turnover resulted from a change in direction needed to operate a “brand new entity,” of which 75 per cent were former local service districts.

“There was a breakdown on what the vision looked like,” he said.

The district dismissed CAO Sarah Pacey and Director of Tourism and Recreation Bobbie O’Donnell in June, followed by the resignation of town clerk Michelle Derrah.

New CAO Sean Lockhart resigned after only six weeks on the job.

The district also accepted the resignation of Coun. Ray Haines, O’Donnell’s husband.

Harvey said the district will fill the empty council seat in 2024, but Elections New Brunswick will determine the date.

While the district did not fill the empty CAO position, Harvey said the town is fully staffed with a town manager and clerk. He said the district fulfills the Municipalities

Act legal requirements of a town clerk and treasurer.

The future of policing in the district and beyond hit the forefront as Carleton North partnered with neighbouring Hartland to explore replacing the RCMP with a municipal force.

A committee established by the two municipalities studied the policing options and presented a plan to develop a municipal force to New Brunswick Public Safety Minister Kris Austin.

“We did our due diligence,” Harvey said.

Noting policing is a provincial responsibility, he said Carleton North and Hartland offered the province a viable alternative to the RCMP.

Over the past several years, the RCMP’s quality of policing deteriorated, he explained, noting the force now lacks a presence in the community. He said residents need 24-7 patrols and greater accountability.

“The system is broken,” Harvey said.

He said the municipal police proposal could operate within the $3 million budget Carleton North and Hartland currently pay for RCMP coverage.

Harvey said transition cost is the most significant financial barrier the communities face.

The mayor said the

province hasn’t said “no” to the communities’ proposal, but 2024 should provide a clearer picture of the future of policing in central and northern Carleton County.

“We’re still open to the RCMP,” Harvey said but noted the federal force’s mandate must change.

He said the policing committee met with the RCMP, stressing the problem lies with the mandate, not the RCMP members servicing the communities.

He said the community noticed improved RCMP visibility over the last two or three months of 2023.

“We have concerns, and we offered solutions to those concerns,” he said.

In addition to policing costs, Harvey said the district needs better cost stability on several fronts.

During 2024, he said, the district council and staff will focus on ways to reduce expenses on several fronts.

“We want to measure every dollar we’re spending,” Harvey said. “We want to see how to get a better bang for our buck.”

He cited the cost of solid waste disposal as an example, noting the service is managed by the Western Valley Regional Service Commission and paid for by the

municipalities. Harvey wants the district to have control of the costs.

Harvey praised the Carleton North council for working together for the betterment of all regions of the amalgamated community.

He said the united approach extends to other levels of government and community organizations, such as the local chambers of commerce, Rotary Club and Riverbend Festivals.

“Partnerships are important,” Harvey said. “You get more by working together.”

The mayor said the district plans to spend money to improve streets in the former municipalities and work with the provincial Department of

Transportation and Infrastructure to identify road priorities in the former LSDs.

He hopes 2024 will see significant steps forward for two longrunning DTI projects, the currently closed Old Florenceville Bridge and the nearby highway bridge, which has faced traffic delays during multi-year repairs.

“The bridges are extremely important,” Harvey said, noting they are the only means to connect the district divided by the St. John River.

Harvey expects 2024 to deliver progress on several significant projects, including healthcare recruitment and completed plans for the new K-to-8 school.

District of Carleton North Mayor Andrew Harvey. (Submitted photo)

Battling crime requires teamwork: RCMP District CO

Richmond Corner open house showcases positive discussions

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Residents are the police officers’ “eyes and ears” in their respective communities, said Sgt. Dan Sharpe, commanding officer of the Western Valley RCMP Region, during an open house at the Richmond Community Centre on Wednesday, Dec. 20.

“Report what you see,” Sharpe told the approximately 60 residents on hand for the positive open discussion focused on ways to mitigate crime in their area.

Sharpe said police forces rely heavily on public information.

“We’re an intelligencedriven organization,” he said.

RCMP members, Cpl James Gallant, Cpl. Kalvin Hanscomb and Cst. Carson Kennedy joined Sharp for the public meeting.

Others at the head table included Richmond Corner residents Chris Foster, who served as host, and Gerald Williams. Woodstock councillors Mike Martin, whose Ward 1 includes Richmond Corner, and Will Belyea, whose Ward 2 borders the community,

Foster described the Richmond Corner meeting as an extension of the police open house on Dec. 11 hosted by Woodstock Mayor Trina Jones, featuring Sharpe and Woodstock Police Force Chief Gary Forward.

In response to the large attendance of Ward 1 residents at the Dec 11 meeting, Foster explained Sharpe agreed to participate in a follow-up meeting with the concerned resi-

dents.

The RCMP provides police coverage in Wards 1, 2, 3 and 5, while the Woodstock Police Force handles policing in Ward 4, the former Woodstock town boundaries.

Foster and several fellow Richmond Corner and surrounding area residents took the first steps to establish a Neighbourhood Watch program. He explained residents expressed concern about the level of petty crime in the community.

“Everyone can rattle off something amiss on their property or a neighbour’s property,” he said.

Sharpe said the force supports the Neighbourhood Watch initiative but stressed such programs are “community-led.” He explained the RCMP would provide information and guidance.

Sharpe said the RCMP would provide an officer to work as a liaison with the group, while the group should choose watch captains to compile information and stats to report to the police.

He said anyone can report suspicious activity or potential crimes in progress, noting they should call 911 in an emergency or 506-325-3000 in a nonemergency. People can also provide information on the RCMP-New Brunswick website.

Sharpe also emphasized the importance of providing as detailed information as possible, noting descriptions of what suspects are wearing, the

colour, model and licence plate of vehicles and the time and place to help police investigate officers.

He explained that, for example, a description of the car or even the suspect’s clothes could provide “just enough” probable cause to stop or search a vehicle.

Sharpe added no detail is too small, noting it could be the piece police need to combine with other information to lay charges.

While acknowledging Richmond Corner residents’ concern about the level of crime in their area, Sharpe said his detachment’s call records don’t reflect the area’s crime rates. He explained police use those records to determine a response.

“If I see volumes going up, I will direct our officers accordingly,” he said.

While most of the evening’s discussion remained positive, a few residents complained about difficulties reaching the RCMP and slow or no response.

Sharpe gathered the information and promised to follow up.

He explained any report to the RCMP is registered and provided a file number. He urged anyone making a report to get the file number, which would help follow up later.

The evening’s discussion included ways residents could better protect themselves and their property.

Sharpe explained most thefts or damage are crimes of opportunity. He explained the importance

of good lights illuminating the yard and not making it easy for potential criminals to see the house is empty.

He also suggested residents be wary of providing too much information on social media, noting that would-be criminals take note of people’s travel plans or other details, making their property an easy target.

Cpl. Gallant said installing cameras on your property can provide vital information for investigators.

“Most cameras are not expensive and well worth the investment,” he said.

He also suggested the placement of Apple Air Tags on equipment can show the location of stolen property.

Gallant urged everyone to take photos of serial numbers or uniquely distinguishable markings on their property to make it easy to claim if recovered by police.

He noted the police often recover equipment, tools or other items, but it is almost impossible to identify the owner.

Foster said the efforts to finalize the formation of a Neighbourhood Watch will begin in January.

During the meeting, he said the Facebook page set up to track suspicious activity has garnered significant interest but has become a means for community discussion.

While he welcomes the open discussion, he said they need a site dedicated only to reports of questionable or potentially criminal activities in the area.

A common opinion throughout the open house centred on the importance of knowing your neighbours.

Sharpe agreed, saying vetting those on the watch group is crucial.

Coun. Martin praised the meeting and the efforts of police and his constituents to work together to tackle crime. He and Coun.

Belyea agreed their constituents want police to be visible in their communities.

Sharpe said police visibility is a common concern in most communities. He praised the Richmond Corner meetings, saying he hopes to hold similar meetings in other communities, such as Canterbury, Hartland, or elsewhere.

Sgt. Dan Sharpe talks with community residents following the Richmond Corner Community Centre meeting. (Jim Dumville photo)

The head table at the policing open house in Richmond Corner, from left, Woodstock Ward 2 Coun. Will Belyea, Ward 1 Coun. Mike Martin, residents Gerald Williams and Chris Foster, RCMP Cpl. James Gallant, RCMP Cst. Carson Kennedy, RCMP Cpl. Kalvin Hanscomb and Western Valley Region commanding officer Sgt. Dan Sharp. (Jim Dumville photo)

Centreville fires ‘flagged as possible arson’

RCMP, Fire Marshal’s Office

investigate two fires in two weeks that destroyed two garages

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The RCMP and Fire Marshal’s office are investigating the second of two structure fires over two weeks, which destroyed separate garages on a family property near Centreville.

George Armour said the fire department responded to overnight fires on their family property on Hartley Settlement Road, which levelled a business-size garage on Dec. 17 and a stand-alone two-car garage on Jan. 2.

Armour’s sisters Ellen, Monica and other family members, noting the timing of the blazes, consider the fires suspicious.

“In our hearts, we know it’s arson,” Armour said.

He noted both fires began in the early morning hours just over two weeks apart.

Centreville Fire Department Chief Ritchie Shaw said he deemed two blazes on the same property in such a short time as suspicious. While his depart-

ment didn’t notify the Fire Marshal’s Office after the Dec. 17 blaze, he requested investigators following the Jan. 2 fire.

“I felt we had to do everything we could to find the cause,” he said.

Shaw said since neither the structures, nor contents, which included at least three vehicles, were insured, they didn’t initially call for an investigation. However, the chief added that the second fire raised concerns about potential

arson.

Shaw said his department received the fire calls shortly before 5 a.m. on both occasions, with the Dec. 17 call coming in at 4:44 a.m. and 4:59 a.m. on Jan. 2.

He explained both fires began more than a half hour before the department received the calls. While fire crews responded quickly, both buildings were fully involved when they arrived, making it impossible to save either building.

Woodstock raises taxes despite increased revenue

Mayor blames increased staff and new structure driving up town’s operational costs

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Woodstock property owners, especially those in Ward 4 encompassing the former town limits, will face higher tax bills in 2024 with jumps in both assessments and tax rates. Woodstock council approved the $16.6 million budget at the regular council session on Dec. 12.

An approximately nine per cent property assessment increase will add more than $1 million in tax revenue, bringing the 2024 total to $14.16 million. The town will also receive $740.628 through the Community Funding and Equalization Grant and more than $1.74 million from other sources to secure the $16.6 million in total revenue.

Mayor Trina Jones said the significant increase in revenue basically covers substantial jumps in operating costs, including several new positions in several departments.

The 2024 budget will see Ward 4 tax rates jump from $1.45 to $1.50 per $100 assessment. Meanwhile, Jones explained, the tax rate for the other wards would remain net-

neutral, with all homeowners paying $1.12 per $100 of assessment.

The tax rate for Wards 1, 2, 3 and 5 includes approximately 70 cents per $100 from the town and 41 cents from the province, which continues to maintain roads and other services in the former local service districts.

Council also approved the $2.62 million utility budget, with Ward 4 residents paying the multi-tiered flat rates for water and sewer services council approved last July.

Jones said the 2024 budget reflects a focus on organizational structure, in which the finance committee worked with directors on workplace assessment to determine the need for more bodies and structural changes.

The mayor explained that the study of structural and workforce needs identified a “shortfall” in protected services, which covers policing, fire service, and town services such as bylaw enforcement, inspection, and animal control.

Protective services’ budget of more than $6.4 million represents almost

39 per cent of Woodstock’s budgeted expenses, including nearly $5.3 million for police, more than $1 million for fire and over $113,000 for other protective services.

“Protective services are a huge chuck of our budget,” said Jones.

Woodstock policing costs are divided between the Woodstock Police Force, covering Ward 4 and the $1.6 million the RCMP charges to serve all other wards.

Jones explained the police budget includes money to fill three new police positions, including two community engagement officers, to enhance its more proactive approach to policing.

Jones explained the third new WPF member would join the Street Crime Unit created earlier this year and will focus on intimate partner violence.

The budget’s second most significant departmental expense, at more than $3.5 million, covers recreation and cultural services. The town is in the process of filling a newly created recreation coordinator position.

The $2.1 million transportation services budget, made up primarily of public works, includes an allocation for additional seasonal workers.

The nearly $1.66 million for general government includes allocations to cover the newly revamped administrative positions, including a new CAO, HR director and other added positions.

Jones said the general government includes $115,000 in community grant funds, including potential support for community halls in the former local service districts.

The mayor explained that the $1.2 million budget for Environmental Health Services covers solid waste collection and transfer fees.

She said that includes a share of the $82,000 the Western Valley Regional Service Commission will face this year.

Jones said Woodstock CAO Allan Walker will work with the RCS and vendors in 2024 to find savings in solid waste management.

The budget also allocated $686,000 for development services and over

$1 million for fiscal service, including debt and capital expenditures.

While operating costs will limit capital investments in the coming year, Jones explained the budget will set aside funds for a new police car and fingerprint scanning equipment for the police and street improvements.

She said the town would also use capital reserves, the Canada Community Building Fund and other grant programs for street and infrastructure improvements and equipment.

Jones said the utility budget also set aside a small amount of capital and will use reserve funds and grant programs to improve its aging water and sewer system. It will also focus on protecting the town’s water sources.

Like the general fund budget, the utility budget includes allocations for restructuring and new hiring, including the new utility director, who was added late in 2023.

The utility budget revenue will come from the new flat-rate tier system approved by council last

summer.

Tier 1 sets a rate of $550 annually for residents who previously paid an annual average of $450 or less.

The Tier 2 rate is $750 annually, affecting those previously paying between $451 and $600.

Tier 3’s rate of $825 annually will include those previously averaging $601 to $750.

Tier 4 will see residents who previously paid $751 and higher now paying $925 annually.

As the town faces rising costs of goods and services, Jones said town staff will seek savings.

“From the finance side, 2024 is a year to dig and review and ensure all the practices we’re doing are to the best benefit of the taxpayers and employees,” she said. “So we’re reviewing everything. We all know there’s money to be had there.”

Jones also expressed hope the province’s longplanned fiscal reform improves the revenue stream for municipalities and doesn’t download additional expenses on their backs.

Firefighters battle a blaze that destroyed a garage on Hartley Settlement Road in Centreville on Jan. 2. It was the second fire at the same property in just over two weeks. (Submitted photo)

TAKONUTOMAKONUWAL (Maliseetwordmeaning‘their

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

Revisiting 2023 challenges and visions for the future

Sakum Tim Paul looks at past accomplishments, shares hopes for reconciliation

By Theresa Blackburn

When Wotstak Sakum (Chief) Tim Paul looks back at 2023, he can’t help but wonder how much better it could have been had the province not cut the First Nations tax agreements.

“The province has a surplus, and about $4 million of that is from Wotstak First Nation,” noted Paul.

Despite that loss, the community continues to work on its priorities: housing, health, job opportunities, and updating infrastructure.

“It’s been a year of challenges. I don’t think the province understands what our development meant for us and the regional economy,” said Paul.

Paul and his council have awarded millions of dollars in contracts over the last ten years, with nearly 100 per cent of the tenders going to private contractors in the region.

“We’ve worked hard to improve things. We have all new water and sewer piping, we did curbing to cut down on runoff and the

damage that was causing to our roads, we’ve invested in elder care, allowing our elders to stay in their homes. We’ve built nearly 100 homes since I got involved with council,” he added, noting that last year the council spent nearly $6 million on housing, with local contractors building all of them.

“The province could be partnering with this, they could be coming to us and seeing how we are doing things like senior care, because during COVID, we didn’t have huge outbreaks - and part of that reason was how we deliver elder care.”

Sakum Paul doesn’t like to dwell on the negatives – his community’s lack of relationship with the Premier and his Cabinet, and the disheartening comments made by politicians to media about the the Wolostoqey land claim.

“We’re not taking peoples houses; land claims have occurred in other provinces and created more economic bene-

fits because Indigenous groups and governments have worked together. For example, the Wolastoqiyik are the “people of the beautiful river’ and we have less than 200 feet of water frontage in our community.”

Sakum Paul says that Premier Blaine Higgs inability to sit down with Indigenous chiefs to discuss land claims, the renaming of the St. John River to Wolastoq, and tax agreements has ripple effects.

“I think there is a real lack of understanding as to what we do here. We work to make opportunities for our people, but while we do that, we also make opportunities for local people who aren’t Indigenous. Within our band office, yes, 90 per cent of the staff are band members, but in our businesses, the majority are non-Indigenous.”

Paul hopes to start sharing more information with the River Valley Sun in the coming months in the hopes of creating a better community dia-

logue.

“We are all treaty people - because of the peace and friendship treaties we signed. That means we are partners, and we hope that Blaine Higgs will eventually recognize that.”

Paul said the government using scare tactics when officials talk about land claims, accusing the Wolastoqey of ‘claiming all of New Brunswick’ just adds to the misinformation rhetoric he’s dealt with all his life.

“People still think we get everythign handed to us. That’s not the case. Yes, we get federal funding, but I don’t think people realize just where that goes. We have to pay for our healthcare, and anytime any of our community members go to the hospital, we are billed. We pay for our own elder care, we have to pay the province $14,000 per student to have them go to public schools, and we have to pay for our own bussing on top of that. Right now, we have over 100 students going to public schools. These are big bills, and the federal funding doesn’t cover it all. That’s why our tax agreement with the province was so important.”

The former tax agreement was initially signed in 1994. The Higgs government cut the program without consulting with band councils in Jan. 2023.

The old agreement meant taxes collected on

reserve were kept on reserve, giving Indigenous communities 95 per cent of the provincial sales tax that was collected through their businesses.

While the government said it would negotiate individual deals with First Nations communities, only Welamukotuk (Oromocto), L’nui Menikuk (Indian Island), and Neqotkuk (Tobique) have penned a new deal.

Neqotkuk’s agreement is worth $22 million over 5 years. L’nui Menikuk’s deal is worth $4.7 million over five years, and Welamukotuk’s deal is worth $291,082 over five years.

“The Premier’s billion dollars surplus – our portion of that tax agreement is a drop in the bucket - under $5 million. What he fails to realize is how that lack of funding now impacts the entire region. We have less money which means we’re doing less building. Local contractors are feeling this. We’ve been an economic driver for this region in the last few years. We are helping build the provincial economy, but he (Premier Higgs) doesn’t see it that way.”

Paul says those funds created real opportunity for the Wolostoqey.

“We work hard to find a place for everyone here,” he said.

“Sometimes it’s just finding the right fit. Opportunity is the key to a healthy community. Addiction can be traced back to a lack of opportunity. We work hard to make sure everyone has opportunity.”

Despite the funding challenges, Sakum Paul is hopeful for the future.

“I still have a couple of years left in my mandate, and I just want to build on what we’ve already accomplished. We need more housing, I want to ensure we continue to provide the best elder care, and I am still hopeful reconciliation with the province can happen.”

Paul says the biggest issue remains the provincial government dictating their path forward.

“This province is not going to get anywhere because of a lack of reconciliation, mainly on the province’s part. They can say what they want, it’s them dictating - still dictating - our path forward, and not allowing us to be part of that conversation. Only we know what we need and want and what we need to do, not Blaine Higgs or his cabinet.”

Paul doesn’t believe the relationship will change until the premier and his cabinet make some inroads to heal this broken relationship.

Wotstak First Nation Sakum (Chief) Tim Paul. (Submitted)

Woodstock council pulls plug on major development Town opts out of agreement for construction of six-story complex

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Woodstock council has pulled the plug on a development firm’s efforts to build a massive residential and commercial structure along Main Street in downtown Woodstock.

In a media release issued Friday afternoon, Dec 15, the town said the council unanimously passed a motion on Tuesday, Dec 12, following an in-camera meeting, to end negotiations with the developers.

“The Woodstock Town Council opts to end negotiations on a development agreement with Arc Development Group (ARC) for a proposed 6-storey mixeduse apartment and commercial space unit on 690 Main Street, the former Woodstock Baptist Church site.” the town stated on Friday’s press release.

Mayor Trina Jones said the decision followed an update on the status of the developer’s agreement from CAO Allan Walker during the committeeof-the-whole meeting on Tuesday.

Jones noted the agreement expired on Nov. 30.

Negotiations between Woodstock and ARC Development began a year earlier, following approval of the project and the required variances by the Planning Advisory Committee and council.

The mayor said staff and council didn’t accept some revisions to the agreement proposed by the builders. The release didn’t specify what revisions the council deemed

unacceptable.

“Though proposed revisions to the agreement had been provided by ARC on Dec. 11, the council was not in agreement with some of the amendments ARC was requesting, and we felt it in the best interest of the community to not extend negotiations further,” said Jones. “Though we appreciate the opportunity and efforts ARC has put forward, we were not willing to bend on most of the amendments they requested, and therefore, we didn’t see much purpose in continuing negotiations.”

The town and the developers began negotiations in November of 2022 after they reached a purchase and sale agreement, which was conditional on finalizing the developer’s agreement.

The town owns the former Woodstock Baptist Church property, which sits vacant across Main Street from the courthouse. It acquired the property through a land swap to allow the construction of a new modern church on the former Carleton Memorial Hospital property.

Jones explained the council agreed to sell the Main Street property for one dollar upon completion of the developer’s agreement. Without a finalized agreement, the town remains the property owner.

The ARC Development Group had to clear several hurdles to gain approval for the ambitious project. These included varianc-

es allowing it to surpass height restrictions from 18 to 23 metres and a reduction in required parking spaces.

At a public meeting on Sept. 20, 2022, PAC approved the variance requests from ARC, represented at the meeting by Jordan Perry and Josh McEvoy.

The 2022 PAC meeting also saw several presentations, primarily from neighbouring property owners, opposing the size and scope of the development. An appeal of PAC’s variance approval, which was later denied, further delayed the completion of the draft development agreement, causing the town to extend negotiations.

Woodstock council approved PAC’s recommendations at a council meeting on Sept. 27, 2022, but then-Deputy Mayor Amy Anderson emphasized the importance of the developer’s agreement.

Anderson, who did not seek re-election in November 2022, said the council must maintain strict oversight of the project and be “more proactive” and “very detailed” while pursuing a final development agreement.

Jones said the current council discussed options during the Dec. 12 committee-of-whole meeting before unanimously agreeing to return to open session and table a motion to end the negotiation.

The mayor said the council wants to begin its

search for other development options for the property immediately.

“Council and staff will be meeting in January to finalize a new Request For Proposal that will be released as soon as possible in the new year,” she said.

Jones noted the Requests for Proposals in the spring of 2022 yielded only two responses, including ARC Development’s, adding that she hopes the changing circumstances, including widespread housing demands, attract a greater response this time, especially among local developers.

The second response in 2022 came from Woodstock businessman Shaun Albright, owner of Crossing Paths Guest House, sitting next door to the former church property.

Albright’s proposal suggested the town subdivide the property, of which he would use a portion to build a six-to-eight-unit apartment building, create green space and expand parking for Crossing Paths.

Jones said the new Requests for Proposals would include information about any available incentive programs upfront, with a goal to see the chosen project begin as early as 2024.

“Given the situation everywhere with lack of housing, housing will certainly be an important aspect of this development project,” she said.

Our business continues to grow due to referrals and positive word-of-mouth. To maintain our high level of service, we are excited to announce that we’ve moved to 110 Carleton Street, across from the Legion in downtown Woodstock. This building gives our clients many advantages. We now have better parking, the latest technology, improved meeting spaces, and wheelchair accessibility. We think that clients will also appreciate some of the many aspects that make this location special.

• We are leading in the revitalization of the downtown area.

• We chose fine art from only local artists for our décor.

• We completed a major energy retrofit, installing 100 solar panels.

Our team is excited to meet with you at our new office location. We invite you to book a free and confidential meeting to review your situation.

Town council pulled the plug on developer’s plans to build a 75,000 unit apartment complex on the former Woodstock Baptist Church property across Main Street from the courthouse. (Jim Dumville photo)

Woodstock eyes approving amended municipal plan

New planning, zoning bylaws to combine former town plan and rural-land use designations

By Jim Dumville - Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Woodstock council will oversee final amendments and officially pass the amended Municipal Plan and zoning bylaws early in 2024.

While the issue was not on the agenda for Woodstock council’s first meeting of 2024 on Jan. 9, Mayor Trina Jones said following a public presentation on Dec. 12 that council expected to give first, second and third readings of the bill as early as possible in the new year.

Woodstock Director of Planning Andrew Garnett addressed the regular council meeting following the public hearing, recommending council ensure the new plan meets all concerns before approving third and final reading.

“We have lots of time,” he said. “We have six months from tonight to give third reading.”

Garnett said the allencompassing bill requires detailed study before approval but noted changes would remain possible

after the first and second readings.

“There is a lot there,” he said.

During the public hearing, Jennifer Brown of Dillon Consulting, the firm overseeing the municipal plan and zoning bylaw amendments, delivered a presentation to council.

“It’s an important pinnacle this evening,” she told council.

While the amended plan is near completion, Brown explained, she reminded council it has until third and final reading to introduce changes.

Brown outlined the amendment overview, which provided broad public engagement, and, as she had done in several previous presentations, she detailed the goals of the updated plan. She explained the new plan would integrate policy direction from the South-Central Carleton County rural plan into the Woodstock Municipal plan using the new boundaries.

Brown stressed the proposed amendments aim to increase access to affordable housing, maintain rural lifestyles and character, increase employment opportunities, investment and local business and industry, expand transportation options, improve infrastructure, and enhance recreational programs.

Brown explained she, other consultants, Garnett and others set out from the beginning to ensure the expanded municipality’s rural residents and business owners face little change under the new plan.

“The new town of Woodstock is a rural-based community,” she said.

Brown said the new plan hopes to provide more significant innovation to residential development, noting developers reached out to clarify issues surrounding their projects.

For example, she outlined an unnamed developer’s vision for the former Cosy Cabin property in Lower Woodstock.

She explained the developer envisions constructing 90 residential units in three buildings, with the potential to include one or more retail or commercial businesses on the ground floor of the buildings.

Brown explained that this project and others would benefit from a plan that allows high-density residential combined with low-impact commercial space such as offices, laundromats, low-traffic retail, or convenience stores.

Brown also identified the Lockard Mill Road area of Jacksonville as requiring zoning updates. She explained existing businesses such as Tarp-Rite and Valley Refrigeration will require an industrial designation.

Brown also cited Cooks Construction’s ongoing plans to develop a large parcel of land north of Eastwood Drive, including a 200-unit mini-home park and other residential developments.

Brown explained that some residents had raised concerns about potential mining within the new town boundaries. She added the province requested Woodstock to be “open and receptive” to mining options but reminded councillors the proposed municipal plan requires any mining proposal to go through a public process involving PAC and council.

Brown recommended that mining fall under a special section of the industrial zoning designation

concerning resource extraction.

The proposed municipal plan includes a regional commercial centre zone along Connell Street from the intersection with Connell Park Road to the Trans Canada Highway overpass.

Brown explained the municipal plan and zoning is a living document which could be amended by approval of council, adding the new plan would remain in place until a full review in 2030.

Hartland Legion supports school lunch program Chase the Ace funds to help feed students at Hartland Community School

By Jim Dumville - Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

T

he Royal Canadian Legion Branch 24 in Harland delivered financial support to the Hartland Community School Hot Lunch program through its Chase the Ace fundraiser on Dec. 7.

Branch President Gary Bovard explained that Hartland Legion presented HCS principal Andy Clark with a

cheque for $500 from its Chase the Ace proceeds.

He said the branch directs money raised through the popular ongoing fundraising event to community projects.

“The donation is to help with unfunded costs associated with the school’s “Hot Lunch” program,” said Bovard.

“We believe every child deserves a nourishing lunch, and thanks to the community support of our ‘Chase the Ace,’ we are happy to support worthy community endeavours such as this.”

Legion treasurer Cheryl Broad presented the cheque to Clark during a Thursday afternoon visit to the

school.

She and Bovard encouraged others in the greater Hartland community to support the vital lunch program.

“The Legion would like to challenge the local business community to step up and match this donation, or at least consider a donation to this worthy fund,” Bovard said.

Jennifer Brown of Dillon Consulting delivers a presentation about the municipal plan and zoning amendments to council at the Dec. 12 public meeting. (Jim Dumville photo)

Cheryl Broad, treasurer of Hartland Branch 24 of the Royal Canadian Legion, presents a $500 cheque to Hartland Community School Principal Andy Clark from its “Chase the Ace” proceeds. (Submitted photo)

SUNNY-SIDE UP

Did you KNOW?

•On Monday, April 8, 2024, a solar eclipse will follow a ‘path of totality’ over central New Brunswick during the late afternoon. The eclipse will plunge the area into temporary darkness for three minutes and 20 seconds.

•A solar eclipse occurs when the moon aligns perfectly between the sun and earth, blocking light.

•The event in Florenceville-Bristol will begin with a balloon launch in order to provide a video capture of the event above cloud cover, if the weather doesn’t cooperate.

•”Be Wise - Protect Your Eyes: It’s never safe to look at the sun directly without protective eyewear. Experts tell us we should not even glimpse at the eclipse as it can cause permanent eye damage. Wear special eclipse glasses, make a pinhole viewer, or with welding glass.

RVS TONGUE TWISTER

Your yawns and yays won’t stretch nor stay Yolanda’s yodels, yells or yips; your yeoman service can’t eclipse her yacking, “yow!” and “yipes!”

CARLETON COUNTY

Colloquialisms

By John Morris

Providing Readers with a Challenge, a Chuckle, and a Smile treed \’treed\ verb - To be cornered or otherwise denied escape; “The dog’s cornered a coon - got ‘im treed.” Commonly used in northern Aroostook County.

Hear this word pronounced at www.dooryard.ca.

FAMILY NIGHT SLIDING PARTIES

Saturday, Jan. 20 & Saturday, Feb. 24

6 to 8 p.m. at the Woodstock Golf Club Hill SPONSORED BY MANULIFE SECURITIES with help from the Woodstock Fire Dept. FREE hot chocolate & hot dogs

Enjoy a giant bonfire

Helmets recommended for children!

*Event subject to cancellation if there are poor weather or snow conditions.

SNOWSHOE POKER RALLY

Saturday, February 10

Woodstock Golf & Curling Club – doors open at 8pm. Entertainment by Ronny Michaud starting at 9:30pm.

Advance Tickets Available at the AYR Motor Centre

COST: $15/person; $25/couple. Must be 19yrs+

WINTER IN WOODSTOCK

Watch our Facebook page for info on sliding parties, snow tube and snowshoe rentals, and more winter fun!

BOBBY VAIL OUTDOOR RINK

Watch our Facebook page for the OPENING DATE!

PUBLIC AND ADULT SKATE TIMES

ADULT SKATES: Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays 12 to 1 p.m.

PUBLIC SKATES: Saturdays 3:30 to 5 p.m.

WALKING TRACK

Come in and walk or run in a safe, climate-controlled environment!

AQUATIC FACILITY

AQUAFIT WORKOUT with Sydney Haines - a HIGH ENERGY WORKOUT

Starting Jan. 9 - NEW TIME: Tuesdays 7:45-8:45 p.m. $10 per one-hour session

50+ AQUASIZE

A low-impact workout using dumbbells and pool noodles. Every Wednesday 10 to 11 a.m. Cost: $2 FREE SWIMS

First Sunday of every month sponsored by Highlift Auto Third Sunday of every month sponsored by Woodstock Fire Dept.

NEIGHBOURHOOD NEWS

Aroostook office closed

The Aroostook Village Office is closed for the immediate future. For assistance, call (506) 273-4959 or visit the Perth-Andover Village Office located at 1131 West Riverside Drive. The village apologizes for any inconvenience.

Snow Blast coming soon

The District of Carleton North urges residents to watch its Facebook page for upcoming information about Snow Blast plans for 2024.

Community Calendar Hotline

The District of Carleton North now has a Community Calendar Hotline, an audio version of the upcoming weekly events in the Carleton North region. Call 506-392-6763 ext. 257 to listen. It is an excellent option for those without access to the Internet. For more information, call 506392-6763 or go to https://carletonnorth.com/residents/communitycalendar/

Events at the NCCC

The Northern Carleton Community Centre features free adult skating from 12 to 1 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday. Free parent and tot skating from 1 to 2 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday. Free senior skating from 2 to 3 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday. Free public skating from 6:45 to 7:45 p.m. on Friday and 2:4 to 3:45 p.m. on Sunday. Adult shinney hockey is available for $5 from 12 to 1 p.m. on Friday.

Pickleball at NCCC

Plan pickleball from 9 to 11 a.m. on Tuesday and Friday at Northern Carleton Recreation Centre. Call 506-392-6763 ext. 210 or email maddie.okeefe@carletonnorth.com

Ice rentals at NCCC

Ice rentals are now available. Contact angie.jamer@carletonnorth.com or call 392-6763 ext. 220 for more information.

Pay utility bill via e-transfer

Want to pay your Sewer/Water bill via e-transfer? Send your payment to districtofcarletonnorth@carletonnorth.com

Free Energy Saving Kits

Hartland has partnered with NB Power to provide our residents with FREE Energy Savings Kits. A total of 200 kits are available on a first come basis. Town residents may visit the Hartland Town Office or Dr. Walter Chestnut Library to pick up a kit while supplies last during regular business hours.

Family Magic at McCain Theatre

Treat the family to a night of magic on Wednesday, Jan. 17, starting at 7 p.m. by taking in the Family Mag-

ic and Illusion Show featuring Ray Anderson and MC Darren Frost. Tickets at $20 plus fees are available at Eventbrite.

Legion serves roast pork dinner

Let the Woodstock Royal Canadian Legion Branch 11 serve Sunday dinner on Jan. 28. The legion will offer a roast pork dinner with all the fixings from 3 to 6 p.m. The dinner cost is $15, including coffee, tea and dessert. Takeout is available.

Golf and curling club hosts AGM

The Woodstock Golf and Curling Club will host its annual general meeting on Monday, Jan. 29, at 7 p.m. at its reception hall. The AGM is open to all club members to learn more about the club, pose questions, volunteer or join committees.

‘Be More Like Evan’ Day

The Woodstock and greater community reminds residents that Thursday, Feb. 1, will be the fourth annual Be More Like Evan Acts of Kindness Day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event in memory of Evan Graham encourages acts of kindness. Special recipients of an Act of Kindness are encouraged to share it with the Be More Like Evan Facebook page with the hashtag #BeMoreLikeEvan.

Skating Club’s ‘Taste of Winter’

The Woodstock Skating Club will serve a four-course meal on Saturday, Feb. 10, at 6 p.m. at the AYR Motor Centre. Tickets for the dinner, catered by Susan Hayden, and silent auction are $50. They are available by contacting wskatingclub@outlook.com.

Rec committee to incorporate

The Ward 4 recreation committee is trying to incorporate. There is a meeting on Tuesday, Jan. 23, at 7:30 p.m. at 199 Main Street. The committee will vote to elect a president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer. Anyone who wishes to join should attend.

Valentine’s Tea

The Canterbury Fire Department

Auxiliary will host a Valentine’s Tea and Silent Auction on Saturday, Feb. 10, from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Canterbury Community Centre, with live entertainment, , sandwiches and sweets. Tickets are $8, with proceeds to a gas-powered fire water pump for the Canterbury Volunteer Fire Department.

Big Axe hosting Casino Night

The Big Axe Brewery will host the Cindy McCormick Memorial Foundation Casino Night on Friday, Feb. 10, in support of Nackawic High School. The $40 ticket provides $10,000 in play money to play casino games. A silent auction will feature items donated by local businesses and live music by Zach Peters.

Brighter Days Boutique

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

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Mon - Thurs 9 am - 4:30 pm

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162 Houlton Street Woodstock

Local veteran receives warm gift of gratitude for service Woodstock-area resident and former U.S.

By Jim Dumville - Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

With a small gather-

ing of friends, family, Legion, and ANAVETs members on hand Thursday evening, Dec. 7, at the Hartland Royal Canadian Legion, former U.S. Marine and Woodstockarea resident Ken Sercerchi proudly accepted his Quilt of Valor.

Christine Corey, representing the Quilt of Valor Foundation (QOVF) USA, travelled from Houlton, Maine, to present Sercerchi with the special quilt she made.

Corey said she represented QOVF members from across the U.S. She explained the movement began in 2003 when a quilter named Catherine Roberts, while her son served in Iraq, began making the quilts.

“Since that time, more

Valor have been awarded,” she said. “Our mission is to honour service members and veterans who have been touched by war with comforting and healing Quilts of Valor.”

While Corey has presented several quilts, her presentation to Sercerchi was the first she presented outside the U.S.

While born in Canada, Sercerchi volunteered for the U.S. Marine Corps and served in Vietnam in 1968 and 69.

He returned to live in Canada after his discharge.

“This quilt is an expression of gratitude meant to thank you and comfort you,” Corey told Sercerchi. “We honour you for leaving all you hold dear to serve, whether in time

This Quilt of Valor unequivocally says thank you for service, sacrifice and valor serving our nation.”

Along with the quilt, Corey presented Sercerchi with a certificate addressed to USMC 3rd Marine Division, 1968-1969 and signed by QOVF Executive Director Lori Thompson and Corey as Aroostook County, Maine, QOVF co-ordinator.

It stated, “The Quilts of Valor Foundation wishes to recognize you for your service to our nation. We consider it our privilege to do so. Though we may never know the extent of your sacrifice to protect and defend the United States of America, we award you this Quilt of Valor as an expression of gratitude from a grateful

Some of those on hand for the QOVF presentation to Ken Sercerchi were, from left, Ted Broad, Edna Barclay, Cheryl Broad, Carla Orser, Don Bard, Sercerchi, Christine Corey, Lynn Dirruso, Sheila Sparks and Ivan Murray. (Tammey Mclean photo)

Christine Corey, presenter and maker of the quilt, helps wrap it around recipient Ken Sercerchi, while ANAVET Beth MacFarlane, who recommended Sercerchi for the honour, grabs a photo. (Tammey Mclean photo)

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Everyone benefits from N.B. International Student Program

Visiting students and Woodstock hosts expand knowledge and understanding through diversity

By Connor Barry I

nternational students provide an invaluable tool by exposing new ideas and cultures to both the students at Woodstock High School and their host families, says Woodstock High School principal and program coordinator Nicole Giberson.

She said international students also benefit

from this diversity, gain lifelong friendships, and increase fluency in English.

Host parent Holly MacLeod recommends the program, calling it a huge benefit to her family.

“It’s a good experience for your family to get outside your comfort zone,” she said.

The benefits to the lo -

cal community reach beyond cultural and educational, explained officials with the New Brunswick International Student Program, which manages exchanges. They estimated every international student brings approximately $25,800 into the local economy.

Giberson said that the student’s tuition goes

primarily to school amenities, such as “more benches, more seating areas, and more tables for the cafeteria.”

She said funds from the program also support new clubs at the school.

Currently, the school hosts 12 full-time exchange students from locations such as China, Spain, and Brazil, with more coming in the new year. Students can stay

for various durations, starting at a few months and going up to a year.

Throughout the year, visiting students visit locations showcasing local interests and culture, such as whale watching in Saint Andrews and hiking on Mount Carlton.

Some international students explained the exchange program provided access to studies beyond what’s available

in their home countries.

“You have much more variety in classes, for example, political science and culinary,” said Mauro Rodriguez, who originates from Madrid in Spain.

And there are other benefits to an extended visit to rural New Brunswick. Rodriguez noted how the air quality was much better than that of Madrid.

From left, exchange students Brianna (Japan) and Milla (Germany) alongside program coordinator and Woodstock High School principal Nicole Giberson.(Photo submitted)

District of Carleton North Council news Council deals with

By Sandra Hanson

Discussions regarding new K-8 School underway

Mayor Andrew Harvey advised council about two recent meetings with the planning committee regarding the new K-8 school to be built in the Florenceville-Bristol area.

He said the first discussion surrounded the location of the school, about which Harvey said he has concerns. The second meeting related to the specifics of the school itself, such as the types of rooms.

Harvey noted the committee will meet on Jan. 9 regarding the “location, the education specs, and different aspects of that school.”

Traffic light concerns surrounding Old Florenceville Bridge

The District wants to be kept up to date about decisions surrounding the reopening of the Old Florenceville Bridge. Council raised concerns at the Dec. 12 council meeting after hearing the suggestion of installing

traffic lights and reducing traffic to a single lane once the bridge reopens.

At the Dec. 21 meeting, Mayor Harvey said the District sent a letter to the Department of Traffic and Infrastructure (DTI) requesting that the District of Carleton North be formally advised regarding all plans for the bridge. Harvey described the single lane and traffic light as a significant concern given the high traffic volume on Main Street.

At the Dec. 12 meeting, Mayor Harvey noted that neither he nor the council members had been consulted on the project. He explained the letter to DTI outlines the District’s need to be included in bridge planning.

Northern Carleton Recreation Centre open for business

Mayor Harvey advised that the newly expanded NCRC, including the walking track and the highly anticipated rock-climbing wall, is open for business.

“I think that’s going rea-

THE MARTIN BOYS

sonably well,” said Harvey. “A lot of people are using the walking track.”

The public can find information about the NCRC online by visiting the District of Carleton North Recreation Facebook page.

Council approves transfer from capital funds

Council looked after some bookkeeping at the Dec. 21 meeting by approving the transfer of reserved funds.

Council approved moving $205,011.24 from General Capital Reserves to the District of Carleton North General Operating Fund. Mayor Harvey explained the funds originated from the General Capital Reserve of the former Village of Centreville.

Council also approved the transfer of more than $1.2 million from the District’s General Capital Reserve Fund to its General Operating Fund, noting the District held the funds GICs to pay for its portion of the McCain Street repairs.

Making music and opening doors!

Read our profile of the Woodstock country music duo. ALSO IN THIS ISSUE: Martha and Scotty Bell’s Christmas success story, Sandra Hanson writes about the house that made her, we visit with New Brunswick’s famous jockey, Ron Turcotte. Barb Sommerville introduces us to volunteers Judy and Randy Lutes, plus My Thoughts Exactly with Jim Dumville.

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Mayor Harvey noted the District will only pay the balance owed on the project sometime in 2024.

“Based on the [the fact that the job] wasn’t completed on time and there are concerns that there could be issues with how the pavement is going to settle, we are not going to finish paying until we are sure we are happy with the job,” the mayor said. Wind storm delivers a wake-up call

Mayor Harvey led a discussion about the wind and rain storm on Dec. 18 and 19, which left thousands of Carleton County families without power for several days.

“These storms are going to be more common; they’re getting stronger and coming from different directions,” he said.

Harvey said the District needs to be more proactive on several fronts, especially shared services.

Harvey recommended the District study how it can support residents during storms and power out-

ages. He also explained that he and council plan to meet with NB Power to discuss EMO services.

“This storm was a wake-up call.”

Communities in Bloom offers opportunities

Mayor Harvey read a letter from Communities in Bloom, a non-profit, charitable Canadian organization “committed to fostering civic pride, environmental responsibility and beautification through community engagement and the challenge of friendly competition.”

The organization encourages involvement by local citizens of all ages and municipal governments, local organizations, institutions, and businesses to support beautification projects.

The program focuses on “environmental awareness and preservation of the cultural, natural, and built heritage elements.”

The letter encouraged the District of Carleton North to opt into their program. Mayor Harvey

advised that if the District chooses to do so, they will have the possibility of receiving special achievement awards and can apply for sponsorship grants.

CiB noted that 2024’s Colour of the Year is orange, and they encourage everyone to plant orangecoloured flowers in honour of our Indigenous communities and peoples.

Final address for 2023

Mayor Harvey gave his final address for 2023 to the council at the Dec. 21 meeting.

“To say that it’s been an experience this first year would be an understatement. But I look at it very positively. It was and still is a challenge bringing these three communities and LSDs together, but on several fronts, we met those challenges.

“I’m looking forward to upcoming strategic planning sessions. Overall, I think it’s going really well, and I’m happy to be part of this council. I am looking forward to 2024.”

Help raise suicide awareness on Feb. 2 by wearing yellow River Valley Suicide Prevention Committee promotes “Day in Yellow”

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Members of the River Valley Suicide Prevention Committee (RVSPC) are asking residents, businesses, students, and education staff to wear, carry or use yellow on Feb. 2 to raise awareness to begin Suicide Prevention Month in New Brunswick.

RVSPC co-chair Ebony Wade said the committee is reaching out to the public to promote awareness of the critical campaign.

“We have several activities happening, including “Day in Yellow” and free education sessions to the public (SAFEtalk) on how to recognize the signs of suicide and how to help, as a non-professional,” Wade explained in a letter to businesses and schools in the River Valley.

The committee’s message notes Feb. 2 as New Brunswick’s Day in Yellow and explains the importance of raising awareness during Suicide Prevention Month in February.

“Our local committee is working to bring awareness to the impor -

tant topic of suicide so that we can reduce the number of deaths by suicide in our region, reduce stigma around mental health, and increase resilience,” said Wade.

The public can help by displaying yellow on Feb. 2, sharing information and taking in special events and information sessions during the month. The committee’s letter outlines a variety of steps during the month. Wear Yellow:

Bring awareness to suicide prevention by wearing, carrying, or using yellow on Friday, Feb. 2. Some ideas include t-shirts, socks, shoes, sweaters, stickers, water bottles, ribbons, pins, necklaces, hats, or anything yellow.

The committee has yellow stickers available to businesses, schools or organizations by emailing rvspc4u@gmail.com

Share to #RVSPC:

The committee urges everyone to share a photo of themselves, their friends, classrooms, teams or groups wearing yellow on Facebook or Instagram. Include the

hashtag #RVSPC and tag the RVSPC page in their post to be entered for a chance to win prizes.

Win Prizes:

Prizes offered by RVSPC include a pizza party for a homeroom whose teacher or school shares a post.

Businesses and organizations can win a coffee break with coffee and muffins delivered to them.

Individuals can win a “smile box filled with all kinds of yellow goodies.”

While recognizing the importance of awareness, Wade explained the committee understands how essential it is to educate the public about what signs to watch for and how to engage with someone who may be contemplating suicide.

The committee will offer two SafeTALK training sessions at the L.P. Fisher Public Library in Woodstock on Saturday, Feb. 3 and Wednesday, Feb. 21. Both are from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.

Email RVSPC4U@ gmail.com to register.

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Ladies Auxiliary presents AED to Canterbury Department Department celebrates holiday with meal and special presentations

By Jim Dumville Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Canterbury Fire Department members celebrated Christmas on Sunday, Dec. 17, including accepting an important life-saving gift courtesy of the re-energized Ladies Auxiliary.

Firefighters, auxiliary members, and special guests gathered at the community hall for a meal, socializing, and a series of presentations.

Auxiliary members officially presented Canterbury Fire Chief Mike Furrow with a portable AED (Automatic External Defibrillator) purchased with funds from Ladies Auxiliary fundraisers.

Auxiliary Vice President Nicole Yerxa explained that firefighters can carry the specifically designed AED when responding to calls. Like those commonly placed in public buildings, the device would allow firefighters to react immediately to heart failures without waiting for paramedics.

Auxiliary president Heather Neilson-Furrow said a dedicated group of women rekindled the organization after the COVID pandemic left it sidelined for a few years.

The auxiliary elected a new executive, which included Neilson-Furrow, Nicole Yerxa, Wendy Gauvin

as secretary and Shirley Yerxa as treasurer.

Neison-Furrow said the growing auxiliary currently features 12 members who help plan and host various fundraising activities such as dinners and raffle draws. She said the organization’s events draw strong support from the community.

Nicole Yerxa explained the organization’s next significant event will be a Valentine’s Tea on Feb. 10.

She said the Canterbury Fire Department Lad\ ies Auxiliary raised more than $5,000 over the past six months.

Another community organization attended the department’s Christmas event to deliver financial support. Sandra Olmstead presented a $100 cheque to Chief Furrow on behalf of the Canterbury Country Club seniors group.

The event also allowed the fire department to recognize firefighters for their years of service, including former Chief Clifton Furrow for his almost a quarter century as chief. He served in the top post from 1998 to 2022.

Chief Mike Furrow also presented Charles Yerxa with a plaque recognizing his more than 15 years of service.

Woodstock Fire Department Firefighter of the Year

With several members of the Canterbury Fire Department looking on, the Ladies Auxiliary presents Fire Chief Mike Furrow with an AED on Sunday, Dec. 17. From left, Barb Furrow, Secretary Wendy Gauvin, President Heather Neilson-Furrow, Chief Furrow, Vice President Nicole Yerxa, Lisa Anscombe and Treasurer Shirly Yerxa. (Roxana Soetebeer photo)

Canterbury Fire Chief Mike Furrow accepts a donation from the Canterbury Country Club seniors group representatives, President Sandra Olmstead, centre and Lisa Anscombe. (Roxana Soeteeer photo)

Former Canterbury Fire Department Chief Clifton Furrow, left, who served in the position from 1998 to 2022, accepts a plaque recognizing his service from current Chief Mike Furrow. (Roxana Soetebeer photo)

Canterbury Fire Chief Mike Furrow, left, presents firefighter Charles Yerxa with a plaque recognizing his more than 15 years of service to the community. (Roxana Soetebeer photo)

Tracy Campbell

At the Woodstock Fire Department’s Christmas potluck, Tracy Campbell was awarded Firefighter of the Year. The award is voted on by firefighters in a secret ballot, with only Fire Chief Harold McLellan knowing the final tally. “This means a lot, guys,” said Campbell as he accepted the award. (Theresa Blackburn photo)

Seeking nominations for Mayor’s 2023 Citizen Recognition Awards

Woodstock to honour recipients at special Family Day ceremony in February

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Do you know anyone who deserves recognition for their volunteer contributions to Woodstock? If you do, the town is looking to hear from you.

Mayor Trina Jones and council members invite the public to nominate individuals who reside in the Woodstock area (Wards 1 to 5) for consideration for a Citizen Recognition Award.

In a post on the Woodstock website, the town explained the mayor

will present the award recipients with a certificate of distinction at a ceremony during Family Day Weekend on Feb. 19.

Nominations for the six available awards must be received by 4 p.m. on Jan. 20, 2024 for 2023 nominees.

“These awards will be given to a citizen, group, or organization that has had a positive impact on the residents of Woodstock. They are the people who make our community and

the lives of those around us better,” Woodstock officials explained in its notice. “We are so fortunate in our area to have such a giving community and so many people always willing to step up and offer their time, talents, or resources, or all of the above.”

The public can nominate someone or find more details by visiting the Woodstock at the following link: https://www.town. woodstock.nb.ca/p/mayors-citizen-recognition-

awards

For more information, email the town at clerk@ town.woodstock.nb.ca or call 506-325-4600.

The Family Day presentation replaces the previous awards ceremony as part of the discontinued New Year’s Day Mayor’s Levee.

Mayor Jones recently announced the cancellation of the levee, explaining she hopes to attract a larger turnout for the special event on Family Day.

Young dancers show they care

Smith Dance Academy raises $2,800 for Hartland child battling health issues

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The young dancers of Smith’s Dance Academy care about dancing, but they care about many things, including those in their community who need support.

On Friday, Dec. 8, Smith Dance Academy took to the stage at McCain Community Theatre at Woodstock High School as part of

the SDA Cares Performance Fundraiser.

In addition to showcasing their skills on stage and invoking the holiday spirit, the young dancers raised more than $2,800 to help support a fiveyear-old Hartland boy’s battle with brain tumours.

The academy directed donations col -

lected as admission to the dance recital to the medical care of Albert, the son of Ben and Alyssa Wiseman.

Smith Dance Academy Director Amanda Boone said the funds would help the family’s travel and other costs as Albert continues treatment at the IWK Children’s Hospital in Halifax.

The young dancers of Smith Dance Academy wave to the crowd following their performance at the SDA Cares Performance Fundraiser on Dec. 8 at the McCain Community Theatre in Woodstock. (Submitted photo)

Hartland Legion to welcome pool shooters from across Canada

Covered Bridge Community to host Dominion 8-Ball Championships in May

By Jim Dumville Local Journalism

The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 24 members in Hartland are working hard to prepare for a national event in May.

The Hartland Legion branch will host the Dominion 8-Ball Championships on May 24, 25 and 26.

“There’s a lot of planning ahead,” said Carla Orser, co-chair of the event with Bobby Allison.

Orser said the branch originally applied to host the popular Legion event five years ago.

The event organizers began preparing for the tournament in November.

Branch president Gary Bovard said Harland Legion members are excited to welcome players from across Canada to

Reporter

the Covered Bridge Community.

He said the event will welcome players from 12 provinces and territories.

Hartland Mayor Tracey DeMerchant said the town council and staff are entirely on board with the branch’s efforts.

“We will support the tournament in any way we can,” she said. “We always want more people to discover Hartland.”

DeMerchant praised Hartland Legion members’ long-running contributions to the broader Hartland community.

“We appreciate what the Legion does to support the town,” she said.

Bovard said Hartland Legion members are excited to host the national event.

The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 24 in Hartland is preparing to host the Dominion 8-Ball Championships on May 24, 25 and 26. From left, Branch president Gary Bovard, tournament co-chair Carla Orser, Hartland Mayor Tracey DeMerchant and tournament co-chair Bobby Allison. (Jim Dumville photo)

Christmas Day explosion in Maine felt on Canadian side of border Centreville-area homes shake in later afternoon ‘boom’

By Sandra Hanson

Some people in Centreville reported houses shaking and windows rattling around 4:30 p.m. on Christmas Day.

Resident Janet Orser was outside with her dog when she heard two small noises.

“They were close together and sounded like distant gunshots,” said Orser. “Not long after those came the big boom. It rattled the ground and the garage windows. It was very loud and sounded like it was in the backyard, but there was nothing to see.”

When Orser returned to her home, her husband reported the entire house

had shaken.

Andrew McDougall also lives in Centreville. He said he was relaxing on the sofa watching television when it happened.

“I heard a big bang and the house shock. My initial thought was something fairly large hit the house.”

McDougall and his wife ran outside but didn’t see anything.

A flurry of social media posts had many people asking what caused the noise.

Bridgewater resident Ralph Kinney said it was a case of “kids old enough to know better” playing with explosives.

The Aroostook County Sheriff’s Office and Maine State Police confirmed an explosion caused the boom.

Maine emergency response officials say the loud bang was the result of a young man in a gravel pit, target practicing with a high-powered rifle and Tennerite, which is an explosive.

The incident occurred in a field near an abandoned Irving service station on US Route 1 in Bridgewater, Maine.

Officials said the explosion could be felt as far away as 11 km. No charges were laid and no injuries were reported.

Looking for a positive way to get involved in your community? Meet other young professionals? Have fun? Join the Rotaract Club of Woodstock! We invite everyone ages 18-30+ to check out our Facebook and Instagram pages (@RotaractClubofWoodstock) and connect with us. LET’S CONNECT AND HELP OUR COMMUNITY!

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The explosive Tannerite, sometimes used for target practice, is being blamed for an explosion in Bridgewater, Maine, that was felt in Centreville, N.B. (Tannerite)

RVS SUNSHINE KIDS

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If you would like your child featured as the RVS Sunshine Kid, please send a photo and some information to the email listed below.

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

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SERVICE ABOVE SELF

By Woodstock Rotary

Over the last few years, it has been a tradition for Rotary Bingo to host their Bingo Extravaganza during the games on the Wednesday night before Christmas.

The Christmas Extravaganza is different than other Bingo games because we donate 100 per cenr of our proceeds to a cause. This year, we again chose the Valley Food Bank (VFB) to receive our donation.

Rotary has a great relationship with the VFB. We partnered with them in their building campaign over the last two years to assist them in renovating their new Houlton Street location.

Due to the growing need in the community for assistance because of inflating

SCAMS: DON’T TAKE THE BAIT!

By Cherie Linder

Artificial Intelligence, or AI, is software technology development that causes computers or robots to act and “think” like humans. They use Intelligence like speech recognition, problem-solving, reasoning, and learning. Examples of artificial Intelligence are computer search engines, selfdriving cars, and website chatbots that simulate human conversations.

The Snowball Effect: A Great Story of Giving

food prices and the stress that the Christmas season can havet, the VFB was an obvious choice to help out with Bingo proceeds. This year, Rotary Bingo raised $11,800 from the Extravaganza and gave that to the VFB before Christmas.

There are a few things that happened to make the Extravaganza such a huge success:

-The Rotary clubs of Woodstock, Perth and Florenceville-Bristol agreed to donate their proceeds

-The CJ104 Pure Country radio station agreed to forgo their percentage of card sales

-The community participation was excellent - as there was a jump in card sales for the event

But the story does not end there.

Playing bingo one night in the weeks leading up to the Extravaganza, Angie St. Onge, an Operative Learning Specialist with Woodstock’s Farm Credit Canada (FCC) branch, had an idea. She knew the FCC’s flagship Community Investment program, “Drive Away Hunger.” Last year

Three of the most popular AI scams are:

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marked the 20th anniversary of the campaign, and to commemorate the milestone, the FCC corporate office said it would match up to $1 million in donations nationwide toward Food Banks Canada.

Knowing the Extravaganza was approaching before Christmas, Angie was hatching a plan. Still, she wanted the money to go toward her local food bank, the Valley Food Bank, instead of the National Food Bank charity.

But there is another small piece to the story.

Angie has a son who plays for Jordan Currie’s U-11 local hockey team, the Woodstock AA Slammers. Jordan had organized a food drive for the kids on the team to raise money for a local charity, and they raised over $500 for the VFB before Christmas.

Woodstock Rotary club member Ian MacDougall helps coach the same team, and his son also plays with the team, and they also participated.

Knowing that Ian was a Rotarian, Angie contacted him with her idea, and Ian

ing. Your daughter’s voice is on the other end, crying for help. She tells you that she has been kidnapped and is being held for ransom, or she has been in a car accident and has been arrested, requiring bail money. She is really safe and tucked into her bed at her apartment several hours away. Ideally, you and your loved ones have developed a “safe word” to ask for in an emergency. If the caller does not know it, you hang up and call her.

2. Deepfake AI – Photos or Videos

Deepfakes are the new Photoshop. AI technology allows people to create, from scratch, convincing photos and videos that are fictional. They have become quite a phenomenon, especially those using celebrity faces like

with the results of their food drive effort. They collected 730 lbs of food and $500. Their efforts were part of a larger plan to make a significant donation to

connected her with the Rotary Bingo committee.

Ultimately, Angie got funds from FCC’s Drive Away Hunger program to match the Rotary Club’s and the minor hockey team’s donations. She also convinced the FCC to have this money go towards the local VFB. This donation totalled $12,430. Way to go, Angie!

Monica Grant is the the executive director at the VFB. She said she had no clue the FCC donation was

coming, and it was a “huge surprise” when they arrived in January.

Monica says this money will help restock the shelves with non-perishable items like canned soup, flour, rice, etc.

Only in a tight-knit community like ours can relationships between individuals, a hockey team, a local branch of FCC, a radio station and service clubs turn a Bingo event into a large donation like this. Rotary is proud of our involvement

Tom Cruise and Jennifer Lawrence or politician voices like Barack Obama and Donald Trump. One study found that 96% of deepfakes are pornographic and that 99% involve women in the entertainment industry. Logically, these deepfakes get the most online views. Social media and dating sites are prime territory for harvesting photos and videos for creating deepfakes.

3. Fake Personalized Emails

Once a scammer has identified a specific company to target, they can use AI to track email addresses and create personalized emails designed to bypass countermeasures. Most current AI detectors are based on documents with a minimum of 250 characters.

in “snowballing” our gift of $24,230 to help the Valley Food Bank.

Another positive benefit is that a group of players on the AA Slammers team got to experience first-hand how important it is to volunteer and give back to the community. Maybe someday, they will be Rotarians.

Woodstock Rotary members will be sharing club news and special features with the River Valley Sun every other month.

Most emails fall below this threshold, so AI goes undetected in a large percentage of them.

Artificial Intelligence helps scammers leave fewer errors to alert you. If you receive an email or a phone call from the bank, contact your local branch. Do not give out personal information to any caller. There are so many ways for scammers to steal in-

formation that they can use to concoct a scam. Please do your homework if something seems off or too good to be true. Stay safe.

Cherie Linder is an administrative assistant with the Woodstock Police Force. She collaborates with Community Resource Officer Cst. Shaun Kimball for this column.

S STUDIO STARS S MY CHATTY EDUCATORS: Happy New Year and back to school!

Thursdays are for laughter and chatter and Pilates. I’m going to go ahead and say TL is their ringleader and the other two are happy to be part of the circus. LS always tries to do just one more to get her moneys worth and CM does a pretty good job at paying attention when it’s one she likes, Spine Stretch or Saw mostly! I think these ladies are mostly excited to see me because when they are done class the next day is Friday! I’m always glad to see them for 50% Pilates and 50% laughter! What do you say ladies, IS it an even split? Hmmm... What they say: “What did you want us to do?” Sometimes they can’t hear me over their conversation and sometimes I’m sure it’s selective hearing. pilateswithpurpose.ca hannah@pilateswithpurpose.ca Woodstock – 506 . 328 . 1820

Members of the U11 Woodstock Slammers pose

Valley Food Bank

Adobe Stock photo

IN A ‘MANOR’ OF SPEAKING

By Jane Jones

We love going on bus trips, and we made a lot of memories in 2023.

Sometimes, we adventure to a place that holds a beautiful memory, like our childhood home.

Other times, it’s a trip to good ol’ Walmart to get some necessities, craft supplies and treats.

One of our fondest memories was going to the Old Home Week parade with a dear friend and being treated to a surprise trip to Dairy Queen.

Undoubtedly, the most exciting outing of all involved “winging it” and asking our driver to take us on a trip “outback-a...”

We can hardly wait to find out where this new year is going to take us!

BEAUTIFUL

BUMBLES

By Linda McHatten

Iwould like to wish you all a Happy New Year. We are all waiting for our season to open on April 16. Despite our heat wave and all the rain, 2023 was an excellent bumbling season. Although I love bumbling in all seasons, fall is my favourite.

On Oct.14, we participated in a fall rally, which some River Valley ATV Club members organized. It was a crisp, cool morning, but that did not stop a die-hard bumbler from hitting the trails with friends and family. We left Jacksonville and bumbled

The New Year means anticipating new adventures

A wonderful fall bumble with friends and family

to J&T Powersports on Houlton Road, where we registered for this fun run. Chatting with others who were gathering for the same event was lovely. Leaving there, we followed the managed trail, which took down under the underpass at Bulls Creek. We left the trail at the Hodgen Road and went up over Poverty Peak. What a beautiful view of the Grafton side of the river.

The leaves were stunning in colours: yellow, orange, gold and brown. There did not seem to be the red this season. The trails were a carpet of fallen leaves with them flying up from the ATVs in front of us and the leaves falling from the trees. I can’t forget all the mud and water holes we went through. It was nice to see groups of people stopped along the trail chatting. That path led us to the trail leading to Benton, where we gathered at the park. There

were stoves, little barbecues fired up, and everyone enjoyed their lunch. Lots of laughter could be heard. One highlight of the rally was the Pumpkin Scavenger Hunt. Tiny plastic pumpkins were placed along the trail in trees and on top of wood piles.

I still cannot believe I could not see one of those bright orange pumpkins. The girls behind us were having a great time. Jen-

nifer and Laurie were having a great laugh at me not seeing them. They each picked up one and received a prize. After lunch, we bumbled our way back to J&T Powersports and then home. It was a great day. The total number of ATVs and side x sides registered for the rally was 56, with 103 participants. The money collected from this rally went back into the community to help families at Christmas—a great day

for a great cause.

Best wishes to you all in 2024, and I hope to see you on the trails. Until next time, Happy Trails!

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

Driver Heather C gets into the spirit of muddin’ (Submitted photo)

Laurie Underhill-Anderson (left) and Jenn Burpee show off their plastic pumpkins that were part of a scavanger hunt. (Laurie Hunderhill-Anderson photo)

Jane Jones is a mom, wife, and business owner who lives and volunteers in Woodstock.

Heather C and Timmy C enjoy the beautiful day by going on a little hike, then a well deserved rest. (Submitted photo)

With help from two volunteers, Neighbour Dale (Buddy) M has done his shopping and is ready to get back on the bus. (Submitted photo)

A fun trip down memory lane took this van full of passengers, Weldon P, Mike D, Shirley M, Dave C and Keith E, to the Hartland area. (Submitted photo)

Stopping for lunch at Benton Park on Oct. 14. (Linda McHatten photo)

COURT NEWS

A roundup of cases processed through Woodstock Provincial Court

By Judy Cole-Underhill

Sentencing set in neighbour dispute

Laura Lee Boehler, 65, of Richmond Corner, will appear for sentencing in provincial court on April 10 at 9:30 a.m. after being found guilty on two of four charges related to an ongoing dispute with her neighbours.

On Jan. 9, Judge Lucie M. Mathurin delivered her verdict after trial and found Boehler guilty of committing mischief and guilty of breaching an undertaking to have no contact with her neighbours.

The judge found Boehler not guilty of criminal harassment and not guilty of assault. She ordered the accused to sign a peace bond compelling her to have no further contact with her neighbours. Any peace bond breach would mean Boehler could face another charge under Section 811 of the Criminal Code.

Boehler sat quietly during the verdict and showed no emotion upon hearing the judge’s decision. She agreed to sign the peace bond as Judge Mathurin ordered.

RCMP charged her with assault with a weapon (a cane), criminal harassment, two counts of committing mischief, and breach of an undertaking concerning incidents between June 28 and Sept. 13, 2021, and between July 3 and Aug. 30, 2021, at Richmond Corner. She appeared in court in custody in September 2021 in relation to the charges and was later released on an order to keep the peace.

Boehler was also charged with breaching a release order and breaching an undertaking following incidents between July 8 and July 21, 2022, at Richmond Corner. The charges allege she violated a no-contact order to stay away from her neighbours and did not refrain from using any handheld or mobile device to do an audio or video recording or take photos.

The charge of breach of a release order was stayed as part of the trial verdict.

Evidence presented by the crown during the trial included video surveillance footage surrounding her neighbours’ property and testimony from Boehler’s neighbours, Duane and Sherry Wortman.

The court heard about the long-standing dispute

between the neighbours that began when the Wortmans moved into their home on Boehler Road in 2010. The Boehlers have lived on a farm on the same road for four generations.

“It has not been a good situation over the years,” Judge Mathurin told the court. “Harsh words have been exchanged between the parties, and the police have been called by both parties.”

For years, there have been numerous incidents between the two properties, with authorities being called several times to settle disputes. The Wortmans set up heavy video surveillance around their property, while Boehler took photos and kept a file on her neighbours since she returned to the homestead in 2017. She said she reported her neighbours to the fire department, police, and the provincial environment and transportation departments for various grievances.

Boehler testified she and her mother were being watched daily, and there was lots of noise and name-calling coming from her neighbours. They owned attack dogs, she said, burned garbage, and established a junkyard on the back of their property. She reported them for unsightly premises, and they put up a fence and tarps in 2020 instead of cleaning up their yard.

As for the assault charge, Boehler testified she was acting in defence of her elderly mother when she swung a cane in front of Sherry Wortman during an argument on the public road outside their home.

Judge Mathurin ruled Boehler was not guilty of assault since she was responding to a situation involving her mother, and she was six feet away from Sherry Wortman when she swung the cane. The judge stated there was not enough evidence to show she intended to strike her neighbour.

During the trial, the court heard Boehler was also assaulted by Duane Wortman during another confrontation. Since then, she testified she was afraid of him. However, Judge Mathurin told the court she did not believe Boehler was scared of Wortman because she continued to approach his property to take photos of him.

Mathurin said Boehler did “badger and annoy” her

neighbours, but there was no evidence the Wortmans feared for their safety. Therefore, the judge said Boehler was not guilty of criminal harassment.

The judge said Boehler was guilty of mischief because she persisted in taking photos and pulled pranks to infuriate her neighbours. The judge said she was also guilty of breaching an undertaking for yelling back at Duane Wortman when she could have followed the no-contact order and ignored him.

The court heard Boehler often blew her car horn, hit the panic button, and played loud music to “drown out” her neighbours. One summer day, she pulled down her pants and mooned them while walking up Boehler Road.

She was charged with indecent exposure and convicted but then won an appeal to have the conviction overturned on the grounds she was provoked. She said the Wortmans hung a “mooning doll” in a tree to make fun of the incident, but she made them take it down.

Her mother, Joyce Boehler, 92, was also convicted of mischief for repeatedly blowing a basketball whistle at her neighbours. The Boehlers have subsequently filed an appeal of her conviction.

Joyce Boehler was also the subject of a civil suit launched by Duane Wortman as part of an insurance claim. In 2016, he was hit by a car driven by Joyce Boehler and claimed he suffered a knee and back injury. He received a significant financial settlement as a result of the civil action.

Guilty plea in school lockdown

An 18-year-old from Plaster Rock appeared in provincial court on Jan. 9 and pleaded guilty to charges related to a lockdown at Tobique Valley High School.

David Fleming will return to court for sentencing on April 16 at 1:30 p.m. RCMP charged him with three counts of uttering threats against three female victims on Nov. 2, 2023, at Plaster Rock. He pleaded guilty to all three counts.

Fleming appeared in court in custody after the incident and was released with conditions. Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean ordered him to stay away from Tobique

Valley High School and the residences of the three complainants. He must have no contact with any of the complainants and cannot have firearms or weapons in his possession.

DeLong to stand trial in shooting incident

Wyatt DeLong, 28, of Cloverdale, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Jan. 8 after pleading not guilty to four charges. His three-day trial was set for May 3, May 6, and May 10 at 9:30 a.m.

DeLong was charged with discharging a firearm with intent, flight from police, dangerous driving and breach of probation in connection with an incident on July 14, 2023, at Florenceville-Bristol when shots were allegedly fired at a police officer.

Janis Buchanan, 28, of Perth-Andover, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Sept. 26 and pleaded guilty to robbery with violence for an incident on May 29, 2023, at Florenceville-Bristol. She was sentenced to two years in federal prison on Oct. 24, 2023.

DeLong and Buchanan were arrested after a manhunt in Victoria County in connection with a series of incidents in the upper river valley.

Sentencing set on four charges

Felicia J. Fulton, 29, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Jan. 8 and pleaded guilty to four charges laid by RCMP. She waived her bail, and a sentencing date was set for Feb. 7 at 1:30 p.m.

Fulton was charged with possession of a stolen vehicle, theft of gas, breach of probation and uttering counterfeit money (a $100 bill) in connection with an incident at a gas station in Perth-Andover on Jan. 3. The crown withdrew another charge of possession of counterfeit money.

“They’ve got me on video,” Fulton told the court as she entered her guilty pleas.

Five months jail for “plastered drunken man”

David Phillips, 69, of Glassville, appeared in provincial court on Dec. 14 and was sentenced to five months in jail after changing his plea to guilty on two charges laid by RCMP.

Phillips was also prohibited from driving for three years and was ordered to pay $248 in restitution for damage to a police car.

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

Phillips was charged by RCMP with flight from police, dangerous driving, refusing a breathalyzer demand, impaired driving and driving while suspended following an incident on Sept. 17, 2021, in Florenceville-Bristol. He pleaded guilty to impaired driving and flight from police. The crown withdrew the remaining charges.

In passing sentence, Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean described the accused as a “plastered drunken man wheeling down the road into traffic.”

The court heard police received a complaint about an intoxicated driver in downtown Florenceville-Bristol. The driver, later identified as Phillips, was all over the road and swerving into oncoming traffic. He refused to stop for police despite lights and sirens, so the officer pulled up beside him and began yelling for the driver to stop.

Phillips looked directly at the officer with a blank stare and kept driving. The officer then positioned his police cruiser in front of Phillips’ vehicle to alert oncoming traffic. Phillips “pinballed” the police car from behind while spinning his tires and pushing the police car forward.

The officer got out, removed the accused from his vehicle, and arrested him at the scene. Phillips was so intoxicated he could not stand up on the highway.

“This is truly shocking behaviour,” Judge McLean said. “The reality of someone being hurt or killed was through the roof.”

Phillips had a prior criminal record that included four previous convictions for criminal driving. He told the court he could not remember any details of the incident.

Four months of house arrest

Allen Edward Wong, 59, of Nackawic, received a four-month conditional sentence of house arrest when he appeared for sentencing in provincial court on Dec. 14. He was also fined $100. A one-year driving prohibition was also imposed.

RCMP charged Wong with failing to stop for police in connection with an incident near Woodstock on Sept. 5, 2021. He pleaded guilty. The crown withdrew a remaining charge of dangerous driving.

Wong must follow a curfew during his house arrest,

and he must not consume alcohol or drugs. He had a prior criminal record.

The court heard Wong did not speed away from police during the incident but continued driving into downtown Woodstock despite police lights and siren. Bail denied for Aroostook man

Dustin Robert Davenport, 40, of Aroostook, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Jan. 4 and was denied bail on multiple charges. Judge Sebastian Michaud ordered him to return to court in custody for plea on Jan. 23 at 11 a.m.

Davenport was charged by RCMP with aggravated assault involving a female victim, uttering threats, unlawful confinement, possession of a prohibited weapon (a handheld torch), and breach of probation for an incident on Dec. 12 near Perth Andover, when a woman was seriously burned.

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

He was also charged with dangerous driving for an incident on Oct. 13 at Perth-Andover when a man was allegedly dragged by a moving vehicle.

Change of plea on 20 charges

Nathan Leon Godin, 29, of Woodstock, appeared for trial in provincial court in custody by video on Jan. 3 and changed his plea to guilty on 20 charges laid by RCMP and Woodstock Police. His sentencing date was set for Feb. 14 at 9:30 a.m.

Godin was denied bail in July 2023 and remanded to jail. He appeared in provincial court in custody by video after being arrested on a warrant for failing to appear in court.

A federal prison sentence is expected for the accused as a result of his guilty plea on multiple charges.

Godin pleaded guilty to flight from police and possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking on March 21, 2023, at Wotstok (Woodstock First Nation); guilty to indictable possession of cocaine, resisting See COURT on pg. 29

COURT

Continued from page 28

arrest, possession of a prohibited weapon (a sawedoff shotgun) with ready ammunition, improper storage of a firearm, and breach of a release order on June 21, 2023, at Wotstok; guilty to driving while prohibited, possession of a firearm without a licence (a rifle), and being an occupant of a vehicle knowing it carried a firearm on March 1, 2023, at Wotstok; and guilty to driving while suspended on March 14, 2023, in the Town of Woodstock.

Godin also pleaded guilty to failing to appear in court on June 20, 2023; guilty to possession of a weapon (a baton) for the purpose of committing an offence, committing mischief causing property damage to a window, assaulting another man with a weapon (a baton), and breach of a release order on June 20, 2023, at Wotstok.

He also pleaded guilty to breach of a release order on March 31, 2023, in Woodstock, and guilty to possession of methamphetamine and breach of a release order on April 2, 2023, in Woodstock. The crown withdrew several other charges.

Burrell not guilty of threatening social workers

Ramone Anthony Burrell, 32, of Florenceville-Bristol, was found not guilty of threatening social workers and not guilty of obstructing justice when he appeared in court via teleconference on Dec. 14 for a verdict following his trial.

Burrell was charged by Woodstock Police in connection with family court proceedings on Nov. 1, 2022, initiated by social workers at the Department of Social Development.

During his trial, two social workers testified they were in family court in Woodstock on Nov. 1, 2022, to give evidence in a child protection matter when Burrell stood up in the prisoner’s dock, waved his arms, pointed his finger at three social workers, began to swear and yelled: “Make sure I stay in jail…Forever!”

Judge Sebastian Michaud found Burrell not guilty of both charges. Michaud ruled Burrell’s words conveyed a warning, but there was not enough evidence to show a threat was made to cause death or bodily harm.

“He came close to the proverbial line, but I cannot conclude that he crossed it,” Judge Michaud said.

Michaud also said the

family court proceedings resumed without further interruption after a brief recess, so there was also no obstruction of justice.

Burrell was released with conditions when he appeared in provincial court in custody on Sept. 28, 2023. He told the court his partner was coming to pick him up from Ontario.

As part of his release, Burrell was ordered to have no contact with the social workers involved in the case. Burrell completed a one-year jail sentence on other charges of assault, threats, intimidation and criminal harassment for more incidents related to a 2021investigation by Social Development.

Burrell was denied bail and remanded on June 2, 2022, after being arrested on warrants by Hamilton Regional Police. In addition to his one-year jail sentence, he spent several months in remand waiting for trial.

Holt sent to drug rehab instead of jail

A Victoria County woman was expected to receive 15 months in provincial jail for a string of crimes she blamed on her drug addiction to methamphetamine. Instead, she was sent to a drug rehabilitation facility for a year.

Amber Holt, 32, of Bluebell, appeared for sentencing in provincial court in custody by video on Dec. 14 after pleading guilty to multiple charges laid by RCMP.

In consultation with both the crown and defence counsel, Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean handed Holt a 12-month conditional sentence of house arrest to be served at a drug rehabilitation facility in Shediac.

Judge McLean told Holt that if she violated her conditions, she would be arrested and sentenced back to jail for the completion of her sentence. She was also prohibited from driving for one year, and a ban on firearms was also imposed. Holt had a prior criminal record and, in the past, spent time in a federal penitentiary.

Holt pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm without a licence (.22 Magnum rifle) and careless use of a firearm for an incident at a camp on June 22, 2022, in Weaver; guilty to flight from police on Sept. 5, 2022, in Perth-Andover; guilty to possession of a stolen chequebook and fraudulent impersonation between May 24 and June 14, 2022, in Perth Andover; guilty of fraud at a grocery store in Perth-Andover on

June 11, 2022; possession of a stolen vehicle and a stolen licence plate on Sept. 5, 2022, in Tilley; guilty to breach of probation by failing to report between June 19 and March 3, 2023, in Woodstock; and guilty to failing to appear in court in Woodstock on Aug. 1.

In referring to her presentence report, Judge McLean said Holt suffered “incredible hardship in her life,” and drug addiction was her “biggest threat.” McLean said time in a drug rehab facility could “give her another chance at life” and provide more help for Holt than she would get in jail.

“I think she deserves that, and the community is far better off for that,” Judge McLean stated.

Holt was escorted from jail to rehab, and compliance checks will be made to make sure she is drugfree and following the rules of the program.

Holt appeared in provincial court in custody on Aug. 15, 2023, after being arrested on a warrant. She waived her bail until later and was remanded to jail.

After being arrested on a warrant, she appeared in provincial court in custody by video for a bail hearing on July 27, 2023. She was released with conditions but failed to return to court. Dead Creek man found not guilty on all charges

Zachary Benjamin Ivey, 24, of Dead Creek, was found not guilty on all charges when he appeared in provincial court on Dec. 19 for a verdict following his trial in November.

Ivey was charged with uttering threats at Pole Hill on Feb. 15, 2021; pointing a firearm at another person, possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace, possession of a firearm without a licence, careless use of a firearm, assault with a weapon, and uttering threats in relation to another incident on Dec. 28, 2020, at Pole Hill. He pleaded not guilty to the charges on Jan. 26, 2022.

During the trial, crown testimony alleged Ivey pointed a firearm and uttered threats during a domestic dispute. Under cross examination, Defence Counsel Alex Carleton suggested the allegations were false.

In handing down his verdict, Judge Scott A. Brittain said crown evidence during the trial lacked credibility, including testimony from the female complainant, who admitted she lied to the police. Under cross examination, she told the court she wanted to end her testimony but was ordered by the

judge to finish answering questions from the defence counsel.

Judge Brittain ruled Ivey’s testimony was direct. The accused testified in his defence and denied all the allegations laid out in the charges. Ivey testified he did have an argument with the complainant on the day of the incident and broke her cell phone. He then drove her to the Walmart to purchase a new one. Police recovered no firearm during the investigation.

Fined $2,000 for breathalyzer offence

Jeremy Andrew Anderson, 33, of Richmond Corner, appeared in provincial court on Dec. 19 and pleaded guilty to a breathalyzer charge. He was fined $2,000 and was prohibited from driving for one year.

RCMP charged Anderson with refusing a breathalyzer demand following an incident on July 1, 2023, near Centreville. The accused apologized to the court for his actions. He had no prior criminal record. 180 days in jail on multiple charges

Jacob Jinson, 25, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court in custody by video for sentencing on Dec. 18 after pleading guilty to several charges laid by RCMP.

He was sentenced to a total of 180 days in jail minus time served. Jinson will spend another 51 days in custody before his sentence is purged.

He pleaded guilty to breach of probation on June 19, 2023, at Glassville; guilty to breach of a release order (curfew) on Aug. 20, 2023, at Oakland; guilty to breaching a release order (ankle bracelet violation) and obstructing police at on Sept. 23, 2023, at Somerville; guilty to breach of a release order (ankle bracelet violation) on Sept. 9, 2023, at Somerville; and guilty to breach of a release order (ankle bracelet violation) on July 30, 2023, at Mainstream.

Jinson also elected trial by judge and jury on charges of indictable sexual assault and unlawful confinement. His10-day trial will be held at the Court of King’s Bench beginning on Sept. 23, 2024. A pre-trial conference was held on Dec. 18.

RCMP charged him with sexual assault involving a female victim, unlawful confinement, and indictable breach of probation concerning the same incident on March 26, 2023, at Limestone. He was held for a bail hearing on April 3, 2023, and released with strict conditions, includ-

ing wearing an electronic monitoring device attached to his ankle. He was later brought back into custody.

Jinson appeared in provincial court in custody on Sept. 25, 2023, for a bail hearing and was remanded to jail.

A co-accused, Riley Cowper, 19, of Limestone, will also stand trial before a judge and jury next September on similar charges of sexual assault and unlawful confinement.

Cowper appeared in provincial court in custody by video on April 5, 2023, for a bail hearing and was released with strict conditions, including wearing an electronic monitoring device attached to his ankle.

RCMP charged him with sexual assault involving a female victim, unlawful confinement, and breach of probation in connection with an incident on March 26, 2023, at Limestone.

Cowper will also stand trial in provincial court on Aug. 14, 2024, at 9:30 a.m. on other separate charges.

RCMP charged him with assault with a weapon (a hammer and tire iron) involving another man on March 23, 2022. He pleaded not guilty at an earlier court appearance, and a trial date was first set for Oct. 30, 2023, when the trial was adjourned to the new date.

Thomas and McLean to stand trial together Connell Ross McLean, 27, and Issak Tedford Thomas, 27, of Centreville, remain in custody to await their trial related to a series of incidents, including a police chase and shots fired. They were back in court on Dec. 19 in custody by video to confirm they will be ready to proceed to trial.

McLean appeared in court in custody on Sept. 13, 2023, and pleaded not guilty to all charges. Thomas entered his not-guilty plea on all counts at a court appearance on Aug. 30, 2023.

Both men will return to court in custody for their trial on Jan. 18-19 at 9:30 a.m. A pre-trial conference was held on Dec. 19.

They were each charged by RCMP with the discharge of a firearm (a rifle) with intent, improper storage of a firearm, possession of a firearm without a licence, being an occupant of a vehicle knowing it carried a firearm, obstructing police, and possession of stolen property (a sideby-side).

Thomas was also charged with possession of a firearm while prohibited and breach of probation. McLean faces additional

charges of possession of a firearm while prohibited, flight from police, driving while suspended, breach of probation, and assaulting a police officer with a weapon (the side-by-side).

The two men were arrested following a collision between an off-road vehicle and a police cruiser on Route 105 in Lower Brighton, south of Harland, on July 17, 2023. The arrests were related to a Monday morning incident in Speerville, south of Woodstock, which included shots fired at a Speerville resident.

The suspects fled Speerville, leading to an hours-long police search and investigation in several communities, including Lakeville, between Centreville, Woodstock, and Lower Brighton. Conditional sentence for break-in

Shawna Schriver, 43, of Johnville, formerly of Carlow, appeared for sentencing in provincial court on Dec. 12 after changing her plea to guilty on two charges laid by RCMP. She received a sixmonth conditional sentence, including three months of house arrest and three months following a curfew. She was also placed on probation for 12 months. The accused had a prior criminal record.

Schriver was charged with breaking and entering and resisting arrest in connection with an incident at a vacant residence in Upper Kintore on May 25, 2022. She pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of indictable mischief causing property damage and resisting arrest.

A co-accused, Timothy Canam, 43, of Carlow, was sentenced to 13 months in jail, minus time served, when he appeared in provincial court in custody on Oct. 6, 2022. He was charged with break, enter, and theft in connection with the same incident. He pleaded guilty to the offence. After his arrest, Canam was denied bail and remanded into custody at provincial jail.

Fined for impaired driving

Frederick William Keilty, 61, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court on Dec. 12 and pleaded guilty to impaired driving. He was fined $2,000 and was prohibited from driving for one year.

Woodstock Police charged Keilty following an incident on Sept. 4, 2023, on Lower Main Street in Woodstock. The court heard his blood alcohol reading was twice the legal limit.

Woodstock Army Cadet civilian volunteer charged with child luring Regional leadership investigating why man wasn’t immediately

By Theresa Blackburn and Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A19-year-old Woodstock man charged with child luring to create child pornography was still working with cadets nearly two weeks after his first court appearance.

Jason Kuhndel is a civilian volunteer with #318 Woodstock Royal Canadian Army Cadet Corp. On

Nov. 7, Fredericton Police charged him with making sexually explicit material available to a minor to create child pornography and luring a minor online to commit a child pornography offence. The two offences allegedly occurred in Fredericton between Jan. 1 and March 30 of this year. A publication

ban protects the victim’s identity.

On Dec. 6, Kuhndel’s lawyer, Patrick Hurley, appeared in Fredericton Provincial Court on his behalf and asked the judge for an adjournment while he waited for disclosure documents from the Crown.

When reached by the

Wednesday: 12 to 6 p.m. Thursday: 2 to 8 p.m. Friday: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

removed from duties

River Valley Sun on Dec. 18, the Commanding Officer for the #318 Cadet Corp, Alicea Richards, directed all questions to the Regional Cadet Support Unit, a Canadian Forces division responsible for the cadet program in Atlantic Canada.

Jordan Elliot is the unit’s Public Affairs Officer.

“He (Kuhndel) was removed from his duties as soon as we were notified,” she said from Halifax.

When asked when her office was notified, Elliot said Richards notified them of the situation on Dec. 18, after the River Valley Sun made inquiries.

“The timing of this is extremely concerning, and we are tracking that separately,” added Elliot, noting her unit is now investigating the delay.

Major Victor Belleville is the Officer Commanding, responsible for New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island cadets.

“The protection, safety and welfare of cadets are always our first priority,” he explained from his office at Base Gagetown.

Maj. Belleville noted that all adults in direct contact with cadets, including civilian volunteers, must follow a code of conduct and undergo various screening levels, including police record checks and vulnerable sector screening, before employment. Volunteers also need to renew those checks every five years.

“It is the individual’s responsibility to notify their

Chain of Command of any criminal charges laid against them. The delay in the unit staff and the headquarters being notified is concerning. We will be reviewing our reporting procedures and timelines with our cadet corps and squadron staff and volunteers to limit the potential of delays of this nature happening again in the future.”

Kuhndel was scheduled to return to Fredericton Provincial Court on Dec. 27, but his lawyer, Patrick Hurley, appeared again on his behalf. He told the court he needed more time to review disclosure documents. Kuhndel is now scheduled to appear in Fredericton Provincial Court to enter a plea on Jan. 18 at 9:30 a.m.

LOOKING FOR OLD FARM EQUIPMENT NEEDED

A 22x38 or 28x38 Dion Threshing Machine (in working order or for parts) These were made between 1910 and 1960.

This is being sourced for an Amish community in Ontario.

For more information, please call Barry in the evenings - he does not have a computer or a cell phone and is working on the farm throughout the day. His number is (905) 983-9331

Former Woodstock Army Cadet and civilian volunteer Jason Kuhndel is charged with child luring. He returns to Fredericton court on Jan. 18 (Theresa Blackburn photo)

Western Valley Special Olympics volunteer honoured

Debbi Graham receives Rita Agnew Spirit Award from Special Olympics New Brunswick

RIVER VALLEY SUN

Western Valley Spe-

cial Olympics volunteer Debbi Graham was recently honoured for her dedication to Special Olympics.

The Rita Agnew Award recognizes operation volunteers who contribute significantly to the organization, illustrate strong leadership, demonstrate integrity and exemplary personal conduct, and are highly respected in their region.

In presenting the award, Special Olympics New Brunswick Program Director Emma Stone noted Graham’s huge

role with the organization since joining in 2015. “Debbi is kind, passionate, and dedicated to her athletes and community,” said Stone in a social media post.

“I am honoured to be the recipient of this award,” said Graham. “I didn’t have the privilege of knowing Rita Agnew, but I am aware of her great legacy.”

Agnew was one of New Brunswick’s first volunteer coaches with Special Olympics. She and her husband, Glen, were instrumental in getting Special Olympics New

Brunswick off the ground in 1979. Agnew died in 2007. Special Olympics New Brunswick created the Spirit Award in her honour.

“I am fortunate to have known (Rita’s husband) Glen,” added Graham. “I learned a lot from him. When I called with questions, he always took the time. The Agnew family is a huge part of Special Olympics. This award will be proudly displayed in my home.”

Graham will attend the 2024 National Games in Calgary as mission staff in February.

YOUR AD COULD BE HERE!

With a distribution of 6,000 papers to 90+ locations from Nackawic to PerthAndover,

Western Valley Special Olympics volunteer Debbi Graham accepts the Rita Agnew Spirit Award from Special Olympics New Brunswick Program Director Emma Stone. (Submitted photo)