River Valley Sun Vol 3. Iss. 1 January 2021

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CARLETON COUNTY COVID-19 HOTSPOT DR. JENNIFER RUSSELL MEETS WITH LOCAL LEADERS AS SECOND WAVE HITS REGION

BY JIM DUMVILLE

C

arleton County finds itself at the centre of the second wave of COVID-19 outbreaks following the holiday season.

With case numbers growing since the beginning of the new year, New Brunswick Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jennifer Russell visited Woodstock Tuesday, Jan. 12, to meet with local mayors and other officials.

“She declared Carleton County a hotspot,” said Woodstock Mayor Art Slipp, who was one of a small group who met at the AYR Motor Centre.

He said other area

mayors joined the meeting through teleconference.

Russell also met with Woodstock First Nation Chief Tim Paul and members of his health team.

Slipp said Russell told them Public Health will closely monitor Woodstock and surrounding communities and undertake extensive contact tracing.

“Enforcement teams are active in our area,” he said.

Slipp said Russell and her team delivered an excellent presentation. He said the key message she stressed encouraged area residents “to stay

home as much as possible.”

The mayor plans to post another video message on the town’s website reiterating Russell’s recommendations.

Slipp described it as vital to adhere to the singlefamily bubble and leave home only on essential errands. He said Russell’s advice to residents is to make visits to stores and other stops as quickly and efficiently as possible and make all stops during the same outing.

Slipp said Russell and her team again encouraged everyone to downSee VIRUS on page 2

Dr. Jennifer Russell delivers her daily update Friday, Jan. 9. (Bruce Macfarlane photo)

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Dr. Jennifer Russell is urging people to download the COVID Alert phone app. The app is free, and lets you and other app users know of possible exposures before symptoms appear. (gnb.ca)

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2

VIRUS

Continued from page 1

load the COVID app.

“It’s a tremendous aid for contact tracers,” he said.

The number of confirmed COVID cases skyrocketed early in the new year, with many cases occurring in Zone 3, which includes Carleton County. At midnight of Jan. 5, Public Health moved the entire province from the yellow to orange phase.

Slipp said Russell blamed the new year’s spike in confirmed cases on people leaving the area and returning over the Christmas holiday season. He said Public Health is still studying the impact of people getting together to celebrate New Year’s.

The Woodstock mayor called it vital people adhere to COVID-19 protocols to reduce the virus’s spread and get back to the yellow phase.

“We must do everything to ensure we stay out of the red phase,” he said.

Slipp said the red phase would force the closure of all but essential businesses.

Slipp said all

Woodstock public services remain available, and town offices are open but under COVID restrictions.

He said that includes the AYR Motor Centre, but the facility instituted significant COVID restrictions, which the town clearly outlined on the town website. He said the webpage offers an easyto-access COVID-19 button to provide detailed information on those restrictions, including a strict mask mandate and distancing requirement.

At Tuesday’s meeting, Slipp said, Russell told them that contact tracers enjoy “excellent co-operation” as they carry out their duties.

“The process is going well,” Slipp said.

The mayor said Woodstock High School and Townsview, both affected by confirmed cases, would stay on remote learning for the immediate future.

The first signs of COVID troubles came early in the new year. On Jan. 3, New Brunswick Public Health reported 10 new COVID-19 cases in the province, all in Zone 3 Around the same time, the River Valley Sun obtained a copy of a memo, dated Dec. 31, from Ho-

rizon Health CEO Karen McGrath advising all Horizon staff and physicians that Public Health was investigating three confirmed cases in the Upper River Valley region.

“This is a high-risk situation, which we are monitoring very closely; however, at this time, there has been no impact on hospital operations or services,” McGrath stated in the memo.

The memo reminded all staff to adhere to Infection Prevention and Control guidelines closely.

“As a precaution, all patients being transferred from Upper River Valley

Hospital or the Hotel Dieu of St. Joseph to another health-care facility are to be placed under Droplet/ Contact Isolation Precautions upon arrival,” McGrath states in the memo.

Dr. Russell later stated that the rising COVID numbers across the province forced dozens of health-care workers off the job and into self-isolation.

Shortly after the Horizon Health memo release, Russell said staff shortages forced the postponement of several elective and non-emergency surgeries at the Upper River Valley Hospital.

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IN CRISIS?

Here are the numbers to call:

RCMP/Woodstock Police 911 Upper River Valley Hospital 375-5900 Hôtel Dieu – Perth-Andover 273-7100 Woodstock Mental Health 325-4419 Perth-Andover Mental Health 273-4701 After Hours Mobile Crisis 1-888-667-0444 CHIMO

1-800-667-5005 Telecare 811 Nackawic Health Centre 575-6600 Tobique Valley Comm. Health 356-6600 Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868 Dept. of Social Development 1-833-733-7835

Help for DRUG ADDICTION

Hope for Wellness Helpline 1-855-242-3310 The Hope for Wellness Help Line offers immediate help to all Indigenous peoples across Canada. It is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to offer counselling and crisis intervention.

Woodstock Addictions and Mental Health 506-325-4419 Mon-Fri 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Perth-Andover Addictions and Mental Health 506-273-4701 Mon-Fri 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Mental Health Mobile Crisis Unit 1-888-667-0444 - 7 days a week from 2 - 10 pm Inpatient Detoxification Services: access by self-referral only; all admissions are voluntary. The detoxification unit provides inpatient treatment for the withdrawal from mood altering substances such as alcohol, cocaine, opiates and other drugs.

Fredericton Detoxification Unit 506-452-5525 / Located at 65 Brunswick St., Fredericton, NB A 10-bed unit that provides medical support, education, and recovery planning for substance abuse and gambling. Phone 452-5525; accepts messages only, calls are returned to plan admissions Monday through Friday.

Miramichi Detoxification Unit 506-623-6175 / Located at 500 Water St., Miramichi. NB. Moncton Detoxification Unit 506-856-2333 / Located at 81 Albert St., Moncton, NB. Ridgewood Addiction Services 506-674-4300 / Located at 416 Bay St., South Bay, Saint John, NB provides a range of services for individuals, youth and family members affected by substance abuse and gambling.

Residential rehabilitation facilities Ridgewood Centre (Saint John) 506-647-4300 / 416 Bay St., South Bay, Saint John, NB Campbellton Regional Addiction Services 506-789-7055 / 53 Gallant Dr., Campbellton, NB Rising Sun Treatment Centre (First Nations) 506-627-4626 / 31 Riverview Rd., Eel Ground, NB Portage Atlantic 1-888-735-9800 / Cassidy Lake, NB, is a nonprofit organization established in 1995, operates a residential drug addiction rehabilitation centre for Atlantic Canada youth (14-21) in New Brunswick.

Early Recovery Group, Woodstock - each Wednesday (unless school is closed due to weather) from 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. at Bicentennial Boardroom (1st Floor), 200 King Street, Bicentennial Place, Woodstock, NB Early Recovery Group in Perth-Andover - each Tuesday at 1 p.m. at the Mental Health and Addictions at 35F Tribe Rd., Perth-Andover, NB Harvest House Woodstock hosts MAMA Meetings (Mothers Against Meth Addiction) on Mondays at 7 pm. This is a women-only group, providing a safe place for women struggling with family members whose lives are being destroyed by drug abuse. For more information contact Natasha Smith at 323-9315. *In an emergency, call 911 or visit a local ER*

Law Enforcement

Woodstock Town Police: (506) 325-4601 RCMP, Woodstock area: 325-3000 (For immediate help: 1-888-506-7267) RCMP, Nackawic area, (Fredericton dispatch): 357-4300 (For immediate help: 1-888-506-1472) Call 911 in an emergency!

Crimestoppers: 1-800-222-8477 Dr. Jennifer Russell met with local leaders on Jan. 12, including Woodstock First Nation Chief Tim Paul, and WFN Health Director Amanda McIntosh (above). The Chief Medical Officer of Health for New Brunswick was in Carleton County after a number of cases were reported in the community in mid-January. (Submitted photo)

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

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

River Valley Sun

Animal Control

Town of Woodstock Police (will dispatch help) 325-4601 York County Officer Randy Casey 459-7831 Rural Areas call the NBSPCA 1-877-722-1522

Box 1000, Woodstock, NB, E7M 0E9

(506) 325-2552

MANAGING EDITOR: Jim Dumville (506) 325-8523 jim@rivervalleysun.ca PUBLISHER/DESIGN: Theresa Blackburn (506) 324-5700 theresa@rivervalleysun.ca PUBLISHER/DISTRIBUTION: Stephen Chisholm (506) 324-5711 www.rivervalleysun.ca ISSN # 2562-3893

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Assume virus is in your community now

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA

3

‘When we announce a case, it’s already been there a week,’ Dr. Jennifer Russell

BY JIM DUMVILLE

R

egardless of where they live, New Brunswickers must assume the COVID-19 virus is lurking somewhere around them and probably has been for a few days.

Dr. Jennifer Russell, the province’s chief medical officer, said if New Brunswickers wait to hear official reports of the virus in their community before acting, they are too late.

“Once they hear, it’s already been there a week before, so don’t wait for an announcement to change your behaviour because you’ll be a week late in changing your behaviour,” said Dr. Russell in a Sunday evening phone interview with River Valley Sun. Questioned on several occasions by River Valley Sun about why they publicly announce positive cases, broken down into six large zones, rather than by county, Russell has been consistent in her answer.

“Well, you know, the population of New Brunswick is a relatively small close-knit population where everybody knows everybody, so we do have to protect people’s privacy, and we do need people to act as if COVID is in their community at all times,” she said, in responding to the same question Sunday evening.

Russell said that regardless of how often the question is asked, the answer won’t change, noting the location of announced cases is not as crucial as people understanding the virus could be anywhere at any time.

“That’s why we need everyone to follow public health protocols 100 per cent of the time, no matter if there’s a case in their community or not. Because when we announce a case, it’s already been there a week,” Russell said. “Pretend there’s already a case there because it probably is.”

Townsview and WHS Carleton County, particularly the Woodstock

area, is currently a COVID-19 hotspot in the province, including three positive cases identified at Woodstock High School and another at Townsview School. In the early morning hours of Saturday, Public Health issued an order for families of students and staff of both schools to self-isolate through the weekend, affecting approximately 1,400 people.

After contact tracing over the weekend, Public Health contacted those among that group who must continue to self-isolate for the next 14 days.

Meanwhile, Anglophone West School District closed both schools for at least a week and began remote learning on Tuesday, Jan. 12.

Carleton North HS Other cases, unrelated to those at the Woodstock schools, were also reported in Carleton County. Parents of children in Carleton North High School and Florenceville Middle School told the River Valley Sun that Public Health asked several students in those schools to self-isolate last week.

Russell said she did not have the details regarding the northern Carleton schools.

“It’s not necessarily that they had a case,” she said. “It may be that they had close contact with a case.”

She said Public Health would direct that, but she hasn’t heard about it.

Latest numbers Current confirmed cases continue to rise and fall throughout New Brunswick. After 24 new cases reported in the Jan. 7 update, the numbers dropped to 18 on Jan. 8.

Unfortunately, it shot back up to 30 on Saturday, Jan. 9, then plunged to only 14 new cases on Sunday.

Monday’s numbers saw that rise again to 21 new cases, with 17 on Tuesday, Jan. 12 and 19 on Wednesday, Jan. 13.

Unfortunately, the Jan. 12 and 13 reports also announced three COVIDrelated deaths, all residents of Lily Court in Parkland Saint John Tucker

Hall. The two deaths announced Jan. 12 included a person in their 70s and another in their 80s, with the Jan. 13 report announcing the death of a person in their 70s.

The outbreak at St. John’s Tucker Hall was its second since the pandemic began in early spring.

“Marcia and I are saddened to learn of this loss,” said Premier Blaine Higgs. “On behalf of all New Brunswickers, we offer our sincere condolences to their families and friends.”

The two Saint John deaths brings the total to 12 in New Brunswick since the pandemic began.

Russell said the daily numbers don’t tell the full story, and people can’t be overly optimistic by a oneor-two-day decline.

“We have two weeks really ahead of us at watching those numbers, because we have 184 active cases, that means 184 people at home who have COVID-19,” she told the River Valley Sun after Sunday’s number dropped to 14.

As of Sunday evening, she said, the province had more than 1,500 people self-isolating, some of whom may become positive.

“So, we have two weeks of watching and waiting, and if everybody continues to follow Public Health directions, getting tested when they have symptoms, stay home, don’t go to school, don’t go to work if you have symptoms, then, you know, we’re going to be in a much better position, but we won’t be able to gauge that for quite some time,” Russell said.

Testing and protocols As Russell and other officials do on a daily basis, Russell emphasized the importance of anyone who has even one of the COVID-19 symptoms to get tested and remain home until the results come back negative.

While asymptomatic spread can happen, Russell said, at this time, health officials don’t believe widespread testing is

Dr. Jennifer Russell explains the self-isolation of students and staff at Woodstock schools at a media briefing in Fredericton. (Bruce Macfarlane photo)

required.

“If we hadn’t been confident in our contact tracing, if we were worried about community transmission, if we were worried about public exposures, then yes I could see that happening, but we’re not in that situation, so basically right now symptomatic people are being tested,” she said.

Russell also noted no wait time for people who believe they feel symptoms to arrange a test.

“Just call in 811 or get the online assessment form and you can get a test lickety-split,” she said.

Russell said everyone who health officials ask to self-isolate get a test on the 10th day of their 14day self-isolation.

She said the easiest way to reduce the virus spread is for everyone, including business owners, to follow Public Health recommendations.

Russell said it is essential for businesses and other organizations to maintain an accurate record for contract tracers.

She couldn’t offer information about how many companies faced fines

because of a lack of good record-keeping.

“You’ll get a visit from WorksafeNB and Public Health and probably the Department of Public Safety if you don’t,” she said. “You don’t want us knocking on your door.”

Communication key Russell said good communication between her team, Public Health, WorksafeNB and several government departments is an essential element in limiting the virus’s spread.

She believes they have that in place, including municipal leaders, noting they met with mayors on Saturday.

“We try to reach out in the community each and every time where we feel that the leadership in the community needs our help to make sure the messaging gets out to their population and to make sure we can all get aligned with our public health messaging and public health measures,” Russell said.

She said municipalities have quick access to everything they need through the Department of Environment and Local

Government.

With the outbreak in the Woodstock area, Russell said, she plans to visit the area, as they did for similar situations previously in Campbellton and St. Stephen.

Woodstock Mayor Art Slipp said a planned meeting on Monday had to be postponed.

He agreed with Dr. Russell that the town enjoys excellent communication between all the departments and organizations, including EMO, Horizon Health, and, most recently, Anglophone West School District.

He said the school district agreed to include the town in all communications sent to Woodstock schools’ parents and staff, ensuring town officials are aware of developments such as Saturday morning’s situation involving the WHS and Townsview.

Russell said all aspects surrounding the ongoing battle with COVID-19 are fluent and flexible, with lessons-learned added to the mix.

“We fine-tune all of our approaches based on real-time data,” she said.

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4

Weekend self-isolation will extend to two weeks for some

School officials advise some of approx. 1,400 people impacted to remain in isolation

By Jim Dumville

A

pproximately 1,400 people in the Woodstock area found themselves confined to their homes for a weekend following the discovery of four COVID-19 cases connected to two Woodstock schools.

In an interview with the River Valley Sun Sunday evening, Jan. 10, Dr. Jennifer Russell, New Brunswick’s chief medical officer, said school officials are reaching out to those who must continue their self-isolation for the next 14 days.

Public Health ordered the widespread

self-isolation after identifying three coronavirus cases at Woodstock High School and another at Townsview School.

“The information communicated was given to the school community through the school superintendent and the principals,” she said.

In an e-mail sent to Townsview School and Woodstock High School parents and staff just after 4:30 am Saturday morning, Jan. 9, Anglophone West School District Superintendent David McTimoney confirmed a positive case

of COVID-19 at the two Woodstock schools The notifications advised all parents and staff members to spend the next two days at home.

“Due to the highlevel activity in the area, Public Health is requiring that all students and staff from our school selfisolate Saturday January 9th and Sunday January 10th. This means staying home, not receiving visitors, and not leaving your property. You will find attached information on self-isolation. Also note that all school activities for this weekend are

being cancelled. These measures will allow for Public Health to do the contact tracing.”

Russell said she didn’t have the number on hand regarding how many of the 1,400 must remain in isolation. The River Valley Sun reached out to the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development and Anglophone West School District for that information and are awaiting a response.

“The only reason people had to self-isolate this weekend was because of the sheer volume of peo-

ple we needed to contact, said Russell. “If we had to wait 48 hours for somebody to get a call to stay home and self-isolate, that would have been 48 hours that they were still out and about, you know, doing their regular activities.”

The widespread weekend isolation limited the spread of the virus while contract tracers completed their task.

“So, we wanted to really clamp down and make sure everybody stayed put while we did the contact tracing,” Russell said.

She explained that with the tracing completed, Public Health successfully identified those who should continue selfisolating over the next two weeks.

Russell said the decision to close the schools and switch to online learning for at least a week is an operational issue, not a public health issue.

She said the department made similar decisions at other schools in the past, where a significant portion of the student body and staff needed to self-isolate.

Dairy Queen temporarily closes after COVID outbreak at schools

Owner notes restaurant relies heavily on student staff members

By Jim Dumville

W

ith news of confirmed COVID-19 cases at two Woodstock schools, the local Dairy Queen, noting “heavy reliance” on student staff on weekends and evenings, announced the restaurant’s closure Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 9 and 10.

Matt Bubar, co-owner of the franchise, said they contacted staff and management early Saturday morning to advise them of the weekend closure.

“We could have called in full-time staff,” Bubar said, “but it’s important they get their time off.”

He said both the restaurant and drive-thru were closed, but a skeleton crew of full-time staff remained on hand to allow people to pick up ice cream cakes they ordered for the weekend. He said the team would also use the opportunity to thoroughly clean and sanitize the store.

He said the shutdown would extend through the weekend.

Bubar said the business

posted a notice on the Fans of Dairy Queen Woodstock Facebook page to inform the public of their decision.

The post on Facebook read, “Public health has advised all WHS students and staff to self-isolate for the weekend due to more than one positive covid case in the school and to allow for contact tracing.

“Due to our heavy reliance on students to staff the restaurant during evenings and weekends, DQ Woodstock will be closed for the weekend. During this time, day time staff will be cleaning & sanitizing the restaurant.

“Thank you for your understanding.

Archie and Matt Bubar.”

The Bubars followed up the Jan. 9 announcement on the Facebook site with notifications of temporary changes to the hours and operations.

The restaurant owners said their hours would temporarily change to 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

“With WHS starting remote learning, and because we rely so heavily

on our high school staff, we have decided to reduce our store hours for this week so that we can operate with only our full-time staff.

Thank you for your support and understanding during these challenging times,” the Bubars wrote on the post.

The Dairy Queen owners also offered, for a limited time, free delivery within four kilometres of the restaurant.

“Due to recent COVD restrictions, Dairy Queen is offering $0 Delivery when you order online with NB Eats. Provide contactless details in the delivery instructions at checkout,” reads the Facebook post.

Bubar told the River Valley Sun the latest development in the ongoing pandemic is a continuation of a challenging year for his and other small businesses in the region.

“It’s had its headaches,” he said.

He said the restaurant took whatever steps he could to ensure the safety of the clientele.

Bubar said the fran-

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chise invested $5,000 to install plexiglass between tables in the dining room.

They also moved tables not fixed in position to ensure they met distancing requirements.

Bubar said customers, for the most part, are respectful of the rules. As soon as Public Health declares an orange phase, most people opt to use the

drive-thru or arrange for delivery.

In an email to parents and staff early Saturday morning, Jan. 9, Anglophone West superintendent David McTimoney announced the confirmation of COVID-19 cases at Townsview and Woodstock High schools, asking everyone to self-isolate for the weekend.

The notice said the school district would contact them again later in the weekend to provide an update.

Woodstock recreation department also announced the AYR Motor Centre would closed Saturday and Sunday, and remained closed Monday.

The centre was reopened Tuesday, Jan. 12.

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA

5

David Alward: Happy to return to his New Brunswick roots

Former premier back after five and a half years in Boston as Canada’s Consular General

By Jim Dumville

A

fter five and half years in the highintensity world of international diplomacy and living in the bustling metropolitan centre of Boston, David Alward is happy to be back on the farm in rural New Brunswick.

Talking on the phone to the River Valley Sun from his home in Riceville, just south of Woodstock, where he and his wife Rhonda were finishing their 14-day COVID-19 isolation period, Alwald said their immediate focus is reconnecting with their home and community.

“We’re trying to get unpacked and settled,” he said, noting their belongings arrived just a few days earlier.

The former New Brunswick premier and long-time MLA for the riding Carleton, previously Woodstock, was appointed Canada’s Consul General for New England in 2015. His term officially ended on Nov. 27.

As much as he loved his diplomatic role and his time in Boston, Alward admitted, “being away was not easy.”

The arrival of COVID-19 in the final year of his term made it more challenging to return home to visit his family. Before the pandemic, they usually made a trip home four to six times a year.

“I haven’t seen Dad since Sept. 1,” Alward said.

With his diplomatic

role and many years of public service behind him, Alward said he would take his time deciding on what the future holds.

For now, he and Rhoda will get resettled, reconnect with the community, and with calves beginning to arrive in January, Alward looks forward to helping his son Ben on the farm.

He said he is anxious to rekindle community relationships, such as becoming an active member of the Woodstock Rotary once again.

Alward said he could look back with pride at his role as Canada’s representative, serving Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont.

He said the consulate staff’s diverse responsibilities range from being at the centre of the NAFTA negotiations to helping a visiting Canadian who lost their passport.

The New England consulate was one of a dozen in the U.S. along with the Canadian embassy.

“We’re helping connect the dots between the United States and Canada,” he said.

Alward said as Consul General, he and staff played close attention to trade issues, including “growing Canada’s exports” to the New England region.

With New England recognized as a leader of global innovation in artificial intelligence, medicine and other technology, Alward said he did a lot of outreach and advo-

cacy on behalf of Canadian smart companies.

Alward said when the New England states passed laws broadening access to their energy sector, he worked with Emera Energy, NB Power, Hydro Quebec and others as they placed bids to deliver services south of the border. He said Hydro Quebec eventually won the bid.

Alward said the consulate also addressed ongoing developments threatening the Canadian economy, including aluminum tariffs imposed by the Trump administration.

As Consul General, he said, he worked with a diverse group, including the New England Congressional delegation, governors, statehouses, mayors of major cities, a wide variety of organizations and NGOs. Alward said the consulate also stood against concerns globally, especially the developing intolerance and growing protectionism.

“In some ways, Canada swam against the current,” he said.

He said issues like climate change require international cooperation.

“There’s a recognition we can’t go it alone,” Alward said, whether it’s climate change or other global issues.

Completing his final year as Consular General in the heart of the pandemic created additional stresses on the consulate staff and added to the workload, he said.

“So many organiza-

Former New Brunswick Premier David Alward in his office at the Canadian Consulate in Boston. (Theresa Blackburn photo)

tions had to pivot to work remotely,” Alward said.

In the early days of the pandemic, he added, the consulate helped maintain the supply chain for PPEs, (personal protection equipment).

While maintaining an optimistic outlook on the future, Alward expressed concern about the decline in political discourse.

“It’s not the politics, but the relationships that

matter,” he said. “That’s more important today than ever before.”

Alward is also concerned about the wide distribution of misinformation.

“People need to know what is real, what is fact,” he said.

Happy to be home in New Brunswick, Alward said his move to Boston, in a way, also took him home. He was born in

Beverly, Massachusetts, when his parents, Rev. Ford and Jean Alward, lived there. The family later moved back to New Brunswick, where the future premier and Canada’s General Consul graduated from Nackawic High School.

Once again, David and Rhonda Alward will reconnect with their rural N.B. roots before deciding what the future holds.

6

Diving beneath the ice-covered Meduxnekeag River

COJO Rescue dive team completes training exercise with Woodstock Police Force

By Jim Dumville

A

diver dove into the Meduxnekeag River’s icy waters Sunday morning to search for a discarded handgun. That was the scenario behind the COJO Rescue dive team’s training exercise next to the Woodstock Farm Market.

Joe George, an owner of COJO Rescues and COJO Diving, based out of Lincoln, near Fredericton, said his team conducted the training exercise in cooperation with the Woodstock Police Force.

The morning began with the COJO team finding thicker ice and lower water levels than anyone on the scene, including Woodstock Fire Chief Harold McLellan, anticipated.

“It was open water last week,” said McLellan, who was on hand as an observer.

While COJO welcomed the public to watch the dive team at work, only a handful of spectators gathered near the scene to check out the unusual Sunday morning activity.

A member of the COJO dive team worked hard, with a pick and heavy hammer, to break through the ice near the shore before resorting to a chainsaw.

As George donned the sophisticated gear for the dive and took the plunge, team members Mike Maynard served as the site supervisor, while Alex Levesque climbed into the COJO trailer as dive supervisor.

Several other team members served in backup roles and prepared to move into action should George run into trouble under the ice-covered river. While alone beneath the ice, George’s progress could be closely monitored by Levesque from the trailer.

Through sophisticated equipment boards and multiple computers and monitors, Levesque maintained constant communication with George and watched his progress via a high-resolution video camera attached to the diver’s helmet.

Levesque could see Meduxnekeag’s rocky bottom as George set out in search of the handgun. When he returned to shore, George said the

Ice on the Meduxnekeag was thicker than expected. (Jim Dumville photo)

Joe George emerges with the recovered handgun. (Jim Dumville photo)

Dive supervisor Alex Levesque monitors and assists Joe George’s dive with sophisticated equipment in the COJO van. (Jim Dumville photo)

Team members help diver and COJO Rescue owner, Joe George, climb out of the water following his dive into the Meduxnekeag River.

(Jim Dumville photo)

water was not as murky as he expected, nor did he face a significant current at the mouth of the Meduxnekeag as it flows into the St. John River.

When George came upon the handgun sitting among some rocks, its image became clearly visible on Levesque’s monitor. At this point, the diver did a 360-degree circle, showing the discarded weapon at all angles. Meanwhile, Levesque maintained detailed timelines and other information to hand over to police with the recovered gun.

George explained the chain of continuity is a vital component of recovering possible evidence for a trial.

Once he completed filming the weapon’s location from all angles, George picked it up and placed it in a bag. Noting that the gun’s hammer was pulled back, he decided to carry the evi-

dence in his hand rather than put it in a pocket of his wetsuit.

Once back onshore, the diver handed the evidence over to the police officers on scene as he would in a real investigation.

Before the exercise began, Levesque conducted a detailed meeting with the entire dive team, explaining the ex-

ercise’s focus, each team member’s duties while emphasizing the safety protocols.

Sunday’s scenario required one extra safety step, with every participant and all the onlookers needing to wear face masks to meet ongoing COVID-19 protocols.

Before leaving the scene, George and his dive team held a de-

briefing session with the Woodstock Police Force officers on site.

George said he has been diving for 31 years.

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Both George and Levesque stressed safety protocols are paramount in any diving.

RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS in memory of Evan Graham On February 1, the family of Evan Graham would have been celebrating his 15th birthday!

This year, and every year going forward, Evan’s family wants to celebrate him by spreading ACTS OF KINDNESS in his memory, just as Evan did all year round.

People are being encouraged to spread acts of kindness on February 1, and share what they’ve done on the Facebook page, “Random Acts of Kindness In Memory of Evan Graham on his Birthday.”

Evan and his buddy Piper.

#BeMoreLikeEvan

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA

Seeking to restore my optimism

My Thoughts Exactly

By Jim Dumville

O

ne year ago, the lede in my first column of 2020 outlined my default position as an optimist amid many reasons to be a pessimist.

It read as follows: “All things considered, I’m generally an optimist. Even in the worst of times, I usually believe things will work out in the end. While inundated with constant examples of humanity’s greed, perversity and evil on a global stage, I’ve always rested my hopes on the compassion, empathy and wisdom on display close by.”

The column went on to outline the reasons for my declining optimism in an increasingly hostile world. It touched on the level of outrage, misinformation and vitriol on constant display on social media. It reflected on the deterioration of democracy, and the growing fiscal imbalance across the world as the rich gained greater power over social attitudes, the economy and government.

And that, it’s now hard to believe, was before 2020 hit us like a bat-wielding Trump insurrectionist.

The year reminded me of a line I shared in a different 2020 column that recalled a joke my late father and I used to pass back and forth for a laugh during tough times.

“Cheer up, they told me, things could be worse. So I cheered up, and sure enough, things got worse.”

If anyone thought things couldn’t get worse, 2020 put that thought to rest. The first two weeks of 2021 are doing little to restore optimism. Hope is there, but you have to look a long way through the darkness to see that glimmer of light.

In retrospect, 2020 began reasonably well then crashed off the cliff. I can only hope 2021’s first two weeks, with the spread of COVID-19 shifting into overdrive and our American neighbours sitting on the brink of civil war, is the final stages of our crash to the bottom, and we can soon begin our treacherous climb back up the cliff.

As I sit with the rest of humanity in the debris of what we can only hope is the final resting spot of 2020’s precipitous decline, I will make my only New Year’s resolution -- restore my optimism.

To do that, I’ll follow the lead of a nephew, who over the past few years found new hope and new beginnings after a personal crash to rock bottom.

He charted a new road and discovered a new meaning to life by following a simple, but often ignored, life philosophy -- take care of what you can change and forget about what is beyond your control.

I have my personal development to address and my problems to solve. I can’t stop the reach of the worst pandemic in more than a century. I can only do my best not to be part of the spread. I can’t stop the insurrection in the U.S. or the alarming growth of in-

7

While displays of violent racism in 2020 raised pessimistic views about while society was headed, last summer’s protests like those in small communities like Woodstock offered a spark of optimism to shine through the darkness. (Jim Dumville photo)

tolerance in Canada. I can only use my voting power for good and help spread compassion, empathy and kindness to those I may influence.

I, nor do you, know what 2021 has in store for us. Some things are clear.

The pandemic will be with us for many months. We all must accept and adapt to its life-altering realities. It has been more than a year since I enjoyed a personal visit with my family. I acknowledge that and will continue to use modern technology to see their friendly faces and hear their soothing voices.

The pandemic kept me from enjoying my little piece of heaven on the shores of the Baie des Chaleurs in Quebec during the hottest, driest summer of my lifetime. I accept that I’ll probably miss out again this summer. That’s a minor sacrifice to ensure those I love remain safe. I’ll return

someday. But, in the meantime, I carry a lifetime of memories of the special people, landscapes, and activities that positively influenced who I am today.

While travel may be limited, left stuck in a community as wonderful as Woodstock is no hardship, few places are better for someone trying to restore optimism. The compassion, empathy and wisdom I mentioned in last year’s column remain around every corner.

Happy New Year, everyone. Let’s all dig for the positives of life and help spread them to others who may have to dig a little deeper to find a touch of optimism.

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

Letter to the Editor The Peace of Spirit

Our winter solstice message of light, love, peace, and happiness

O

nce again, it is the time when our Mosums (Grandfather) Sun stops his journey south and turns to begin his journey north.

It is Winter Solstice. Winter Solstice is the point upon the Great Hoop of Life, where the sacred relationship between the Great Mother and the Great Father becomes more observable to the People.

Our original instructions teach The People that we should make special observances of this natural phenomenon through ceremony and through passing on those Original Instructions, which are our Traditional Teachings.

We learn through this sacred relationship about how we are to create and maintain similar sacred relationships.

Relationships that are in balance and in harmony and that are loving, equal, respectful, and nurturing.

Winter Solstice is when our People slow down all of our activities and sit quietly in honouring our sacred one-

ness with all of Great Creator’s Creation and our oneness with the Love and the Peace and the Joy that is Great Creator.

The love, joy, peace, and compassion which is evident at this time is ever so good for our hearts; and what is good for our hearts is good for our Earth Mother.

To all of our relatives (and we are all related), we send you strong, loving, and healing energy so that at this time, your heart, your home, your lives, and your spirit are filled with love, peace, joy, and forgiveness.

We send strong healing energy to our relatives who are suffering, in pain, in turmoil, or are otherwise in need of love and healing.

May the sacred life force of love bring healing, and may it lift heavy hearts.

We share your love, peace, joy, and laughter. Your joy and happiness lift the hearts of Grandmother and Grandfather.

Whenever we are in ceremony we are carried within the light of our hearts and are lovingly remembered through spirit, through light, through peace and through love.

As human beings, and as the designated protectors of the land, we have a responsibility to all living things, all of creation: the two-legged, the fourlegged, those creatures that fly, all creatures that swim, all plant life, the trees, the water, the air, the land - every living thing.

It is our responsibility to love, honour, respect, and protect all of creation. In doing this, we honour our birthrights.

We also honour the Ancestors who kept our traditional teachings alive, and we honour the Seventh Generation yet to come.

We conclude by recognizing, acknowledging, and respecting our sacred relationship to all other living things - past, present, and future.

Our sacred Earth Mother requires

our love and respect if she is to continue to sustain us.

From our lodge to yours, we send you light, love, peace, and harmony.

All My Relations, Caroline, Dan, John, Jim, Kyle, Chico and Spike Ennis Tobique First Nation

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.

8

POTPOURRI

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

A Roundup of Interesting Photos and Events

SPECIAL CELEBRATION! RIVER VALLEY SUN

O

n Dec. 31, Bertha Higgs of Forest City, celebrated her 100th birthday. There was cake, messages from the Queen and the Prime Minister, as well as many greetings from friends and family.

The gathering was small, but extended family and friends were able to sing a ‘socially-distanced’ Happy Birthday to Bertha in her side dooryard.

Bertha still lives in her own home, with her son Dennis. Pictured below is Bertha and her two sons, Dennis (right) and New Brunswick Premier Blaine Higgs, left. Right: The ‘socially-distanced’ crowd who sang Happy Birthday to Higgs. (Lyanne Higgs photos)

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In and around Nackawic

9

Programs, activities, and business news

By Julie Stone Lions Club Program The Nackawic Lions Club has operated a Christmas Daddy’s program for the past 35 years, says Lion’s President Brian Toole. “it has never been this successful.”

Ron Berube, Past President and Community Volunteer, added that he was “overwhelmed by the way the community has pitched in this year.”

It took a lot of commitment and community generosity, and effort to provide over 50 families with Christmas boxes containing turkey, groceries, toys, and gifts. There was even food for pets. Toole related that they also had cash donations of $5,000, which helped to buy food and gifts for the boxes.

Toole explained that Cal’s Independent Grocer supplied almost 200 bags of groceries donated by customers at his store.

“The idea was suggested by Loblaw’s, but it was totally up to each store to take part or not,” said Cal Sorensen, owner, operator of the grocery store in Nackawic.

He put one staff member in charge of the effort, and the staff put together five, 10, and 20 dollar grocery bags with contents listed on the front. The store asked customers if they were interested in buying a bag for the Christmas Daddy program. Sorensen said that allowed him to donate the nearly 200 bags to the Lions Centre.

The Nackawic Area Wellness Committee set up a decorated Christmas tree at the Mall with empty Christmas boxes underneath. Citizens dropped off new toys in the boxes that were later collected by the Lion’s Cub. Gail Farnsworth said the idea came from member Ruth Anderson who thought “the children ought to have a toy as well as food” at Christmas time. She said they were surprised and excited by the toy donations, adding that some people even put food in the boxes.

Customers enjoying a meal and a drink at the Riverfront Pub and Eatery donated pyjamas for the Christmas Daddy program.

Pub owners Andy and Anita Fox said they wanted to do something for the Lions Club, so they posted a request for new pyjamas on Facebook asking for sizes from baby to adult sizes.

Each donor had their name put in a box, and when the campaign was over, the name drawn received a $25 gift certificate from the Pub. With two truckloads of pyjamas delivered to the Lions Centre, families picking up their boxes could pick out sizes to fit their families’ needs.

Members of the Nackawic Legion assisted Lions volunteers to pack the boxes.

Coach Matt Fox and three of his hockey players loaded cars with boxes for delivery to those who couldn’t pick up their boxes.

Berube, a humble man

who usually does not draw attention to himself, said in this case, “the efforts of this community can not go unnoticed and should be recognized for what it has done for families in this area. They really made a difference for many people.”

The program also reached out to other communities by sending all leftover food to the Valley Food Bank in Woodstock and excess toys and pyjamas to Sanctuary House.

Christmas Nights/Lights Members of the Nackawic Area Wellness group thought it would be a good idea to have a Christmas House Decorating Contest for the town.

They circulated the word through Facebook and the town’s monthly flyer, the Key. Decorations aplenty began appearing throughout the community.

Committee chair Gail Farnsworth asked for volunteer judges, who were new to the community, to keep it unbiased. The response to her request was more than she had hoped. The committee selected three families, two with young children. Each judging family dealt with a specific category. The judges reported that they had a great deal of fun doing it, and even the children took the job very seriously.

The judges were Tracey and Tony Oliver, Tara and Nick Brewer and family, and Kellie and Mark Morehouse and family. They picked a winner in their category and one honourable mention.

Four $50 prizes were

Anita and Andy Fox have opened a restaurant and pub in Nackawic. (Submitted photo)

awarded as follows: The Clark Griswold Award: Lori and Chad Connors Family.

The Santa Claus is coming to Town: Jamie and Jen Grant.

Christmas Spirt: Nicole and Sterling Gallant.

The Judges Favourite: (input from all three families) Andy and Kim McMicking’s.

Five $20 Honourable Mentions - in no particular order: Jessica King, Shannon and Tim Doran, Susie Jean, Kim and Bradwell Wilson, Laurie and Danny Cronkhite.

The Nackawic Wellness Committee believes that having the contest made the Christmas season a little more fun during this COVID-19 pandemic, and many in the town have commented that it should happen again next year.

Dream Comes True Andy and Anita Fox had a dream to build and open a restaurant in Nackawic.

They envisioned a place where people could sit down and have a homecooked meal and possibly a beer or glass of wine.

They operated the Pub in

the shopping centre but heard from many people that Nackawic needed a restaurant.

In the fall of 2019, local residents noticed a foundation under construction on Route 105, near the road that goes to the mill. The speculation began.

On Jan. 8, 2020, Anita and Andy opened the doors to the new building and began to operate only the Pub section hoping that the Restaurant section was only a few months away.

Anita says that they had a lot of help from family and friends to make their dream into reality. In March, COVID-19 hit, shutting everything down for a while.

Instead of getting the blues, Andy and Anita used the time to focus on getting the restaurant kitchen set up.

In April, the Riverfront Pub and Eatery began serving meals take-out style.

“We have never looked back,” said Anita. As COVID restrictions let up, they erected an outdoor patio where patrons could practice COVID regulations with distance and masks outdoors.

There was also room inside for Andy and Anita to

move table arrangements to adhere to health guidelines. The business started to pick up as word of mouth reports of the establishment spread.

Anita realized another dream soon after - making on site authentic homemade Italian pizza from a recipe given to her by her Italian mother.

“All of our dough and sauce is made from scratch using Italian pizza flour and sauce made from ripe tomatoes and just the right combination of seasonings,” she said.

Patrons are also pleased to be able to access the business by many different means. The property is accessible by road, from the water (with a dock has built for that purpose), by snowmobile in winter (a trail leads right to the parking lot) and by ATVs. Andy and Anita set up a website where their menu is available. To say that the Nackawic couple is happy is an understatement, and both spend many hours on-site talking to customers and working their own shifts as they are needed.

Congratulations Andy and Anita!

TRUCK THEFT Woodstock Police officers are investigating the theft of a red, 2010 GMC Sierra truck from the business parking lot of E. Cummings Contracting on Upper Main Street in Woodstock. It is believed this theft occurred sometime during the late evening of Fri. Dec. 18, 2020. This truck had a red cab on the back. On Fri. Dec. 31, 2020, this same truck was located, burned, in the Bulls Creek area in Lower Woodstock. Anyone with information about this vehicle theft is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers.

To provide an anonymous tip call 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)

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’ TAKONUTOMAKONUWAL

(Maliseet word meaning ‘their stories’)

News and Features from Woodstock First Nation

Classification of Spirit MOTHER TONGUE

By Anatasha Lyons

I

n the PassamaquoddyMaliseet Dictionary, nouns are classified as animate and inanimate.

The linguistic terms have never fully depicted the understanding of Language Keepers. For instance, previous learnings indicate animate as Class 1 and inanimate as Class 2 with the following explanation: Class 1 can loosely be defined as anything liv-

ing, meaning humans and animals, including objects that can absorb or hold water like pots, bottles, and dough. Alternatively, flour by itself, including water, rivers, fire, and land defined as Class 2. Clear as mud, right? Though most speakers speak of the drum, certain berries, rivers, fire, and land as having spirit.

In conversation with my friend and linguist, Conor Quinn, I postulated that Class 1 and Class 2 are forms of spirit, a manifestation thereof or even that Class 1 contains the direct spirit and that Class 2 involves the spirit slightly removed or changed in some way.

Conversation circled round to words for spirit, which we reviewed pre-

viously; (Kci)-Mənəto, Cəcahkw, and Kci-Niweskw. Conor mentioned, “a lot of cultures have the idea that every person doesn’t just have one spirit in them, but at least two or three… each form sort of a different part of the person. Like one can leave you, and then you get sick and trained [Medicine] people must get it to come back to you.

The original word for God is believed it to be (Kci)-Mənəto but was repurposed post-contact

by Jesuits. Subverted in Mi’kmaki and Penobscot territory to mean Devil; however, Protestant Missionaries in Massachusetts used the exact same Wampanoag word for God in the 1663 Eliot Indian Bible, which coincidentally

Words of the Month

was the first Bible printed in America. Also, interesting to note that on the Mohegan Tribe emblem is Mundu Wigo. Translated into Wəlastəkwey: Mənəto Wəliko/Monotu Woliku, meaning God/Creator is good.

All this leads to one of many inquisitive thoughts; maybe Catholicism and Christianity themselves were not so foreign to my ancestors. When they prayed, they made the sign of the cross; into the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. To be continued…

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

Creator/God/ Great Mystery

Kci-Mənəto/Kci-Monotu PHONTEICS: KCH-ee MəN-doo

Spirit

Cəcahkw/Cocahq PHONTEICS: JəH-jacqw

Holy Spirit

Kci-Niweskw/Kci-Niwesq PHONTEICS: KCH-ee NEE-weskw

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Year-end update: Woodstock

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 11

Citizens’ support helps town have good year, despite challenges

By Art Slipp Woodstock Mayor

D

espite the many challenges and concerns associated with the COVID-19 state of emergency, the Town of Woodstock had a good year in 2020.

Thanks to the citizens’ support in the greater Woodstock region, we managed to avoid returning to the provincial protocols’ very restrictive “red” phase.

This has been a blessing because schools and businesses have, for the most part, been able to remain open. Thanks to our municipal staff and administrators’ commitment, the town continued to offer all our municipal services, and all our buildings remained open to serve you, our residents.

In terms of economic activity, the town was able to complete several critical capital projects.

During the summer, we did work on designated projects on Houlton Road and Connell Road. Also, we completed two major Gas Tax projects – sewer-pipe lining and a major upgrade of the Eastwood Heights booster station.

This year, we will use Gas Tax funding to replace the King Street lift station and do some additional paving.

As we enter the new year, the Town of Woodstock is well-po-

sitioned for continued growth. Several projects are currently underway, and others scheduled for 2021 are at various stages in the approval and permitting process.

You may have noted the work on Turner Street for the new Home Hardware building, the expansion of Kent Building Supplies at the traffic light on Connell, and the new building by the slip lane into the Walmart parking lot.

Also, there is a warehouse/office complex and two multi-residential apartment buildings scheduled for this spring.

Other large projects are also under discussion.

In addition to these commercial projects, the solar panels at the AYR Motor Centre have been installed, and work will continue on the replacement of the arena refrigeration plant, the pool dehumidification system and field house lighting.

The new water source’s well and pump house is now under construction and scheduled for completion before the ice goes out.

2019 and 2020 saw extensive planning and policy work in preparation for major decision making this year.

The Municipal Plan, a Woodstock Housing Needs Assessment, a Subdivision Bylaw, a Climate Risk and Resilience Assessment Study, a Do-

cuPet Licencing Services Agreement and an SPCA Animal Control Agreement have been finalized.

This year we will complete the revisions of the Zoning Bylaw, the Building Bylaw, the Woodstock Downtown Planning Concept document.

We will try to use the new pilot multi-residential incentive program to secure an affordable housing project in the downtown core.

The town operating budget for 2021 is $10.1 million, and the utility budget is $1.5 million, with both the tax rate and water and sewer rates remaining unchanged.

While this budget is extremely tight, we recently received confirmation that we have received approximately $321,000 in compensation under the federalprovincial Covid-19 Safe Restart program.

As we approach the end of a year of COVID uncertainty, the arrival of several vaccines offers us an opportunity to return to a more regular schedule of family, social, cultural and community events.

We must all do our part to return to normal, and we fully expect that 2021 will be another prosperous year for the town and region.

Warmest regards, Mayor Arthur Slipp

Woodstock Mayor Art Slipp. (Pam Everett photo)

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12

Year-end update: Nackawic

Pandemic changed lives, but there is reason to look foward

By Ian Kitchen Nackawic Mayor

A

s we say good-bye to 2020 and welcome in 2021, let’s review the past year and examine the exciting things to look forward to this year for the Town of Nackawic and the surrounding area.

The pandemic changed our lives. We had to put Our Festival on the Bend celebration and the Big Axe Craft Beer Festival on hold for another year. These events provided an opportunity for people to come home to see friends and relatives.

We are looking forward to these events returning and watching the St. John River Valley’s best fireworks display.

The postponement of the municipal elections for a year allowed council to continue to move some initiatives forward.

ACOA and the provincial government made a funding announcement of more than a million dollars for phase 1 of our waterfront project. Construction will begin in the spring.

We will have a marina with slips and moorings available for boating enthusiasts, plus gas available on the waterfront.

Enhancing our waterfront as a destination for the locals and tourists has been an ongoing project. We are excited to see Phase 1 completed this year and plan for further development in the future.

The Destination Nackawic Economic Development Corporation, established to promote Nackawic and the surrounding communities as a great place to visit, live and do business, has reaped some benefits.

Our new website, destinationnackawic.ca, and social media marketing promoted our area.

Check out the website.

We welcomed many new families to the area.

As there is a need for independent senior living facilities in our area, the DNEDC was essential in the process that brought the Riverside Garden Homes project to our community. With

groundwork completed, construction of the units will begin in the spring.

With the need for a nursing home in our area, so residents do not have to move out of our community, we will continue our work to bring a new facility to our community.

Like many communities in New Brunswick, we struggle with meeting the needs of our aging infrastructure. We will replace our trickle filter station in 2021.

With the hard work of individuals raising funds, the arena will see some upgrades. We were successful in getting a leftturn lane into Smythe Lane completed.

We continue to work on ways to make our operations more efficient and economical, so we have the resources to address our infrastructure needs.

Nackawic is a wonderful place to live and visit, and we remain dedicated to continuing to see our community prosper.

Lastly, I would like to thank everyone for their

Nackawic Mayor Ian Kitchen. (Submitted photo)

patience and cooperation during the pandemic.

Thanks to all the community volunteers for their service and time.

Small communities do not flourish without these dedicated individuals.

Best wishes to everyone, and we hope 2021

is an excellent year for all.

Mayor Ian Kitchen Town of Nackawic

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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 13

Year-end update: Hartland

Crediting Hartland residents for slowing the spread of COVID-19

By Darrin Foster Hartland Mayor

T

hanks for the opportunity to speak of the prospects for Hartland in 2021.

“First and foremost, I want to thank the good people of Hartland for doing all they could to slow the spread of Covid.

I would ask that all continue their efforts so we can be clear of this scourge in 2021. Standing together, we can accomplish anything!

That said, Council and I would like to continue with the wonderful Renaissance happening here and in our region.

A few things I would highlight are: *The Central Carleton Community Complex – we eagerly await the federal funding announcement that no doubt has been delayed due to larger issues. *Continued Waterfront improvement: This will be a key to attracting more tourism and

more folks moving here.

Indeed, we have already seen our Real Estate market heat up! *Continued commercial and residential developments – to accommodate the new people moving here and the people with dreams of starting a business. *Continued collaboration with the Becaguimec Trail Association to improve and expand our multi-use trail system – It has been a beautiful addition to the town. We are so lucky to have a forest preserve within our town lines. The sky is the limit! *More paving, sidewalk improvements and curbing to slot into our rotating/rolling five-year plan. *A continued focus on our tourism and how to best capitalize on it for our businesses and residents. *Continued expansion of Hartland Helpers

Food Program – an excellent program started at the onset of COVID-19 in March of 2020. We have attracted quite a number of donations and tons of volunteers to make it happen to date.

Hartland has no shortage of thoughtful, helpful souls who want to make a difference. Indeed a good “problem” to have.

We also will have a municipal election to look forward to in May. I encourage anyone with ideas and a passion for being a part of something bigger than themselves to run for a seat.

I want to say thanks to the greatest council and staff a mayor could ask for and highlight that the addition of our CAO David Hutten has made our jobs a lot easier. In short, I see a very bright future for Hartland in 2021.

Mayor Darrin Foster Town of Hartland

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Hartland Mayor Darrin Foster. (Submitted photo)

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CLASS 1 TRUCK DRIVERS

DUTIES INCLUDE: (but are not limited to) pick up and delivering freight throughout various cities in both Canada and the United States; operating a tractor and 53 foot reefer trailer.

WE REQUIRE: 2 years experience, clean driving abstract, criminal records check, the ability to communicate in English (written and oral), and must be residing in or willing to relocate to Woodstock, NB. WE OFFER: 45 cents on all miles, no slip seating, new equipment, take your truck home, group health benefits, extra pay for picks/drops, waiting time, and layovers.

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14

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 15

Telescopes explained

NIGHT SKY

By David Hunter

T

here are two main types of optical telescopes: refractors and reflectors. The diagram shows the two different types.

The refractor is the type one ‘looks through’ at the end of a longish tube pointing to the object under study (moon, stars, planets). It is so named because it has an entrance objective lens (the lens closest to the object under study), which refracts light from the object to a focus point near the other end of the tube, which is examined and magnified there by an eyepiece.

The objective lens is like a magnifying glass, except that it is typically composed of two lenses called the crown and flint, which help correct for chromatic aberration (colourization of the image).

The first telescope in British North America (Canada), a refractor made in Germany, was installed in Fredericton in 1851 at King’s College, which is now the University of New Brunswick. It is called the William Brydone Jack Observatory and is a National Historic Site.

The distance from the objective lens to the focal point is called the focal length. To aid in the minimization of chromatic aberration in refractor telescopes, the focal length is kept long, which makes the telescopes long and un-

wieldy. The problem of chromatic aberration was solved by Isaac Newton when he invented the reflecting telescope, which replaced the refracting convex lens with a reflecting concave mirror.

Light of all colours is reflected equally. However, in Newton’s time and for several hundred more years, the only available material to make mirrors was speculum, which has poor reflectivity and tarnishes quickly. This prevented the widespread adoption of reflecting telescopes. However in the last 100 years, mirrors made from high-quality glass (Pyrex) are easily made highly reflective by vacuum coating a very thin layer of aluminum on the front surface of the mirror. With the reflection problem solved and whereas reflecting telescopes can have short focal lengths most modern telescopes are reflectors.

Most amateur astronomers today use reflecting telescopes.

Years ago, many amateur astronomers made their own reflecting telescopes. Now the market has been flooded with many low-cost telescopes made in China, and the art of telescope making has been partially eclipsed. Additionally, the relatively recent invention of the CCD (Charge Coupled Device) imager has revolutionized astronomical photography both at the professional and amateur levels.

The 2009 Nobel Prize in Physics was shared by three physicists for their invention of the CCD. One of the recipients was Willard S. Boyle, born: 19 August 1924, Amherst, NS, died: 7

May 2011, Truro, NS. It is my impression that today many amateur astronomers have become so obsessed with astrophotography (using CCD and CMOS sensors) that they spend most of their efforts creating fabulous digital images and spend much less time observing the heavens with their own eyes.

Countering this trend was the effort of John Dobson (1915-2014), who invented a particularly clever Newtonian telescope design that now dominates the amateur telescope field.

His widely adopted design is now called a ‘Dobsonian,’ and it is easy to use and low cost. An impact of modern computers, mobile phones, and electronics is the advent of ‘Go To’ telescopes.

These telescopes can be set up fairly easily to automatically ‘Go To’ whatever sky object one may wish to observe. The current pandemic has elevated the popularity of amateur astronomy to the point that purchasing a telescope is rather difficult. But don’t forget your binoculars and your ‘naked eyes,’ which are superb for surveying the heavenly skies! Keep looking up!

You may send me questions at: quantum.hunter@gmail. com or write to me at: 9 Nightingale Crt, Florenceville-Bristol, NB, E7L 0C6.

David Hunter is a retired medical physicist who studies the night sky above his home in Florenceville-Bristol. He is working on a new 12.5 inch reflecting telescope.

Valley Outreach offers free, confidential support to someone living with, leaving, or has left an intimate-partner violent relationship, or has been sexually assaulted, or knows someone who needs support. Offering support from Nackawic to Plaster Rock, these services are still available during COVID-19.

For more information contact Manon Albert, Valley Outreach Coordinator, by calling 1-506-328-9680, or text 1-506-328-7246, or email valleyoutreach@nb.aibn.com or reach out on Facebook Messenger.

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

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Offering a safe environment for customers!

Looking for High School Student Correspondents

The River Valley Sun is looking for community minded youth to provide coverage of school events.

Get in touch with Managing Editor Jim Dumville at jim@rivervalleysun.ca or call 325-8523

PERSONAL GIFTS THAT TURN INTO FOREVER KEEPSAKES For the person who has everything, make it a gift to remember!

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

Florenceville-Bristol Christmas Tree Disposal Drop off your Christmas trees behind the Northern Carleton Civic Centre any time before noon on Jan. 18 for disposal.

NCCC Ice Schedule Check the calendar at https://www.florencevillebristol.ca/iceschedule for the most up to date ice schedule.

Woodstock COVID Cancels Meeting Due to the increased activity of COVID-19 in our community and confirmed cases in Townsview School and Woodstock High School, the town cancelled its Jan. 11 regularly scheduled council meeting. The next meeting of council is tentatively scheduled for Jan. 25 at 7 p.m. at the AYR Motor Centre. Anyone with questions or concerns can contact the town hall at 506-325-4600 or

by email at townhall@ town.woodstock.nb.ca.

With limited seating under COVID rules, council meetings are shown live on the town’s website or can be viewed at any time on YouTube.

Frostscapes Woodstock Old Home Week is sponsoring an event to help you make the most of winter and display your artistic talents.

Everyone can take part in Frostscapes by turning their yard into a piece of art. Get creative and build sculptures for a chance to win prizes in the following categories: Most Creative, Most Humorous and Most Canadian. We also have a bonus category for kids under 12. Please take a picture of the masterpiece and send it to oldhomeweekcommittee@gmail. com by Feb. 14.

Christmas Tree Dropoff Residents have until noon Jan. 18 to drop off their Christmas tree behind

NBCC Woodstock for disposal. The town will conduct a chipping program for the trees.

Virtual Rotary Event The Woodstock Rotary Club annual cash draw and entertainment will be coming to you virtually this year. Rotarians encourage everyone to have a Kitchen Party with their bubble and tune into watch live music from the Cunningham Haines Band. There are over $3,000 in door prizes to be claimed during the event and $18,000 in cash prizes to give away.

Tickets are $150. Buy one from any Woodstock Rotarian and be a part of the great work they are doing.

Sliding Parties Woodstock will host two sliding parties at the Woodstock Golf and Curling Club hill on Jan. 30 and Feb. 27. The Woodstock Fire Department will be on hand to maintain the bonfire.

Announce birthday, anniversary, graduation or new baby announcements for as low as $20!

Ask about our free milestone* ads!

Call 506-324-5700 for more info!

Christmas lights contest winners Below, left: The winner of Woodstock’s 2020 Home for Christmas Decorating Contest was located at 1 Parker Road in Northampton. (Submitted photo) Below, right: The winner of Millville’s Light Up Our Community contest was Jason and Monica Pike. Second place went to Cathy Cobb and third to Glen McGuigan. The village thanked all participants, saying the village looked great. (Photo courtesy Facebook)

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

Enjoy a safe, home-cooked meal with your ‘family bubble’ at The River today!

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

Country Music Legelds Play Here!

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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 17

Wonderful Christmas; good riddance to 2020 IN A ‘MANOR’ OF SPEAKING

By Jane Jones

W

hat a fantastic holiday season we had here at Carleton Manor! We still remember the events we were able to hold with fondness, the visitors we were able to accept and of

course, for the kid in all of us, the gifts!

We had to designate one entire room to accommodate storing and quarantining the vast amount of gifts given to our Neighbours from their loved ones, plus even more gifts from numerous anonymous, lovely and thoughtful elves from Woodstock and surrounding communities.

A visit from the Grinch himself kicked off our holi-

days. Not to be outdone, Santa pulled together a parade. Fresh baked goods, candy canes and hugs were doled out as we danced and sang throughout each Neighbourhood.

For New Year’s, the all-time favourite Bingo game was requested, with a New Year’s twist. Instead of shouting bingo, our Neighbours used their noisemakers to claim their prizes.

Then, just before we counted down the clock to 2021, our Nursing staff had to step in and kick out the bad actors’ “COVID virus” and “the year 2020,” with a big hopeful “good riddance” and “don’t let the door hit you on the way out.”

Jane Jones handles public relations at Carleton Manor in Woodstock.

Leighton Clark and Carly Godin spread their Christmas cheer to the Grinch. (Michelle Vail photo)

Santa (Kevin Inman) and Florence McKeil during the Christmas parade. (Michelle Vail photo)

Jessica Corey and Patsy Trecartin were the unpopular COVID virus and 2020. (Goodine Lane Nurses Station photo)

Elsie Lawrence and Charlie Sterling ring in the new year with big prize winnings at Carleton Manor. (Jane Jones photo)

COVID-19 (Patsy Trecartin) and Year 2020 (Jessica Corey) get the boot from Julie Kimball. (Goodine Lane Nurses Station photo)

A new year begins...

RIVERSIDE RAMBLINGS

By Carolyn Brown

T

he month of December happened with much excitement at Riverside Court, offering a wonderful mix of activities to celebrate the season. The staff and the residents both became engaged in making this year the very best it could be.

Now it would seem Mr. Hoots, the lovely white owl on the Christmas tree outside my office, took flight a few times only to be discovered in various hiding spots around the house.

The idea from one of our residents. (thank you, Rita

Hawketts provided much fun for our other residents in discovering where he was and returned home again.

The Christmas Dinner, held on Dec. 10, offered a wonderful evening with staff coming together to cook, serve and entertain our residents.

Unable to welcome family to join their loved ones this year, we celebrated in style with a full course turkey dinner, a beautiful Christmas cake designed by our new dietary manager, Jennifer, and nothing less than world-class entertainment by Santa and his elves. We are just so puzzled because these elves looked so much like our Health Care staff, but they couldn’t be with those moves! Thank you to each and every one!

This celebration provided a wonderful opportunity to recognize some residents in light and funny

ways, enjoy Marg Beattie’s entertainment on piano, and relax amidst the beautiful décor celebrating the season. We were especially pleased that evening to recognize Shirley Bubar by presenting her with a flower to honour the fact she is the resident who has lived with us the longest.

Shirley came to us in October of 2008 and has been a bright light in our home ever since.

We also made gingerbread houses, toured in the van to see the lights, wore our ugly sweaters, watched Christmas movies, sang carols and of course, enjoyed all the special treats, many provided by the businesses and folks living in this great community.

Staff received gift certificates and prizes in random draws in place of a staff party, which allowed us to support local businesses.

On Christmas Eve morning, we held a well-

attended candlelight service in the Chapel. It was so lovely to come together in the darkened room and light our candles one by one, thinking about what we can give and share of ourselves with those around us as we listened to the carols. Some shared stories of Christmas past, sharing memories they have carried with them all these years.

And so we are in a New Year. May we cherish our memories, and may the Lord empower us with strength and wisdom, for He knows the plans He has for us. That’s all that really matters. Happy New Year to residents, staff and to the broader community we call home. It’s where the heart is!

Carolyn Brown is in charge of Community Relations at MacLeod Riverside Court Retirement Residence.

Riverside elves help entertain the residents at the Christmas party. (Carolyn Brown photo)

Brad MacMillan shares a moment with Shirley Bubar, left and Beryl Clark, right. (Carolyn Brown photo)

18

WELLNESS

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

January 2021: A new year, same virus with a few ‘shiny nuggets’ Eating Well

By Karrie Bedford, RD

H

appy New Year to a year that still feels full of some of the same old things, like uncertainty, COVID-19, and daily press conferences.

A new wave of the virus is here (one that blew the first round of numbers out of the water) and just so happens to be in many of our backyards. So, where is the silver lining? What is so shiny about this ‘new year’?

To look at the glass half full from a food security point of view, here are some ‘shiny nuggets’ that we have 2020 to thank, and things to look forward to in the upcoming year: For starters, Food Security is on the table. Like really on the table. If 2020 taught us anything, it’s

helped to magnify what we’ve been saying for years (more like screaming): “Right, our communities are hungry” and “hey, these are the barriers to why people can’t afford or have access to nutritious foods” During the first, and second and whatever wave we’re under with COVID, our programs and supports have strengthened. Don’t get me wrong.

There is still a lot to do in our communities. However, I find fewer folks are likely to shy away from the topic of food security (and they finally understand what I’ve been talking about!)

Our existing food programs have blossomed.

Have you checked out our bulk buy programs in the region? If you asked any of the volunteers who make these programs run, they’d tell you their numbers have grown exponentially! It’s really a lovely thing – to see a commu-

nity come together during trying times, to make sure everyone has equal, accessible and affordable produce. If you haven’t heard of these programs, I encourage you to check out their socials and inquire!

To kick the lesson home, we’ve learned that less is sometimes more.

Like a simple, homecooked meal can be nutritious for both the body and the soul (This is the kind of self-care I can get behind!)

Or, a couple of affordable canned goods and a touch of local produce can be transformed and stretched into an easy comfort meal for the family. Our food skills have flourished – how about that flour and yeast shortage back in march? If anything, we’ve perfected our bread making abilities.

It’s been a heck of a ride, but 2021 offers the light at the end of the tunnel with a vaccine plan in

place. So cheers to a few more months and a couple more waves of what COVID-19 has in store.

In the meantime, cherish being at home with your immediate family bubble, around the dinner table with a home-cooked meal.

Or having the little ones’ home from school with extra hands to help create a delicious batch of chocolate chip cookies. Before you know it, 2022 will be here and gone, and we’ll have these little ‘shiny nuggets’ to show for it in years to come. I’m thinking a ‘Quarantined themed cookbook’ will be announced by the end of the year. Let’s make the most of it Western Valley – keep on cookin’.

Karrie Bedford is a Registered Dietician, and the Food Security Consultant for the Western Valley Wellness Network. Email her at food@cvcin.ca.

ARE YOU STRUGGLING TO PAY FOR FOOD? The Upper River Valley Food Pantry can help! Reach out via email: urvfoodhelp@gmail.com or call/text (506) 391-9819 REMEMBER: You are NOT alone! There is help!

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

PURCHASE TICKETS AT

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

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Thank you for your support!

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NOTE TO SELF : If you were able to believe in Santa Claus for the first eight years of your life, you can believe in yourself for more than five seconds.

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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 19

Village turns out to celebrate neighbour’s 100th birthday

Kathleen Thompson still enjoys her independence RIVER VALLEY SUN

J

uniper resident Kathleen Lindsey (Whitehouse) Thompson was born Jan. 4, 1921, in Glassville.

On her 100th birthday, the community of Juniper and beyond turned out to mark the special occasion. A secretly-planned driveby parade went past Thompson’s home, where she continues to live, independently.

She remains as quick-witted as ever, said her daughter, Megan Kelley, quoting her

nephew’s Isaac Thompson’s Facebook post.

“She loves life and radiates warmth and humour,” Isaac said in his post.

Thompson went from her birth in rural Carleton County to Brooklyn, N.Y, where she lived through part of the Great Depression.

She graduated, post Second World War, from Dalhousie University with a BSc degree, said Kelley.

She followed that by doing research at Har-

vard Medical School and the University of New Brunswick before marrying and settling down in Juniper to raise five children.

“And, she’s had a ton of adventures I’m sure I don’t even know about,” wrote Isaac in his post.

Kelley credits Juniper area residents for helping Thompson remain in her home, noting the entire community keeps an eye on her.

“Juniper puts its own spin on the adage that it takes a village to raise a

child and expands it to care for the elderly,” she said.

In addition to the drive-by birthday celebration, Kelley said, the community presented Thompson with a beautiful bouquet.

Kelley said the celebration came as a complete surprise to her mother, and “she was delighted.”

“I think it’s remarkable that during a pandemic, this community chose to make her day,” she said.

100-year-young Kathleen Thompson. (Submitted photo)

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RURAL ROOTS

Stories About Country Life in Western New Brunswick

Weaning calves; and hopes for a new year

ADVENTURES OF AN ACCIDENTAL FARMER

By Ellen Culbert-Johnston

W

ell, I did it! I got my three calves in the barn all by myself!

I know for most folks, this may not sound like much of an accomplishment. However, for this accidental farmer, this is a biggy.

We usually wean our calves in the fall, but the weather was warm, and the pasture was green. I just couldn’t bring myself to put the three babies in the barn.

Therefore, I waited for the weather to change, and this past month, Max, Dolly and Heidi went into the barn.

Now, I have to share that I had attempted to get the calves in the barn many times. Usually, Anna and Elsa would come, stay for a while and reminisce about their winter in the barn on cold nights while keeping the calves out.

On two occasions, I got Max into the barn, but no Dolly and Heidi, should I keep him in, with hopes of getting the other two calves in.

Thoughts went through my head like one in the barn is better than none.

Then, I thought, with my luck, I’d get the other two in, and he would get out.

What’s a farmer to

do? Well, patience saying came into play. On a sunny December morning, I went to the barn, put down some grain and waited, and waited, until finally the big cows ate all the grain and left, while the calves’ curiosity got the best of them.

They entered the barn, allowing me to close the barn door behind them gently.

The next part of weaning calves is a little noisy, as the calves were bellowing for their mothers, and the mothers were bellowing back to their calves. Everybody at the barn was mad at me.

I explained to the moms, this was in their best interest, noting they are bred and due to calf in the spring. I told the calves that they would be spending the winter days outside and cold nights inside while dining on delicious grain.

I don’t think my explanation worked on either of them, but it was worth a try.

With all this bellowing going on, I thought it best to call my neighbour to let him know that no animals were injured or missing, just angry cows, and that things would be loud for the next couple of days.

After about four days of cows and calves bellowing, they warmed back up to me, especially at graining time. The calves, Max, Dolly, Heidi, and I are getting to know each other by me moving slowly, spending time with them and of course, talking to them.

With the arrival of a new year, I don’t remem-

ber being so happy to hang up a new calendar.

I must admit I didn’t do the reminiscing or reflecting as I usually do.

However, as a farmer, I did reflect on the beautiful calves that graze in the pasture and on the mother cows who did a good job raising healthy calves.

Each day when I go to the barn and smell that clean hay, I’m thankful for the kind and caring neighbours who helped to haul in hay on a warm summer night.

My hope for the new year of farming is for calves’ easy birth due later this spring.

I hope for good weather this summer so that crops will flourish, and farmers’ worry of lack of rain is diminished.

Most importantly, I wish for peace and good health for all in the New Year.

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

Ellen’s in her happy place, conversing with her cow Anna. She wishes everyone on a Happy New Year. (Ellen Culbert Johnston photo)

CORRECTION!

The River Valley Sun is looking for good-news stories to share with our readers!

Email story details to theresa@ rivervalleysun.ca

THE OWNERS AND STAFF AT LIBERTY TAX WANTS TO WISH YOU A HEALTHY AND HAPPY NEW YEAR, AND MUCH PROSPERITY IN 2021!

4–401 Connell Street, Woodstock, NB P: (506) 328-2220 F: (506) 328-3595 woodstocklibtax@outlook.com

The New Brunswick Society of Retired Teachers (NBSRT) announces their 2020 Scholarship and Bursary program, available to university and college students. Two successful applicants will each be awarded $2,500. Detailed information and the application form can be found at www.nbsrt.ca.

In the last issue of the River Valley Sun, we mistakenly put the wrong caption under the photo that accompanied Ellen Culbert-Johnston’s column.

The caption should have read: Ellen Johnston, and friend Sue Perkins head out on a tipping trip. (Sue Perkins photo) We apologize for the error.

YOUR AD COULD BE HERE! Contact Theresa at the RIVER VALLEY SUN to get your message out to customers.

theresa@rivervalleysun.ca (506) 324-5700

oss

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 21

SUNNY-SIDE UP

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

RVS Active Winter Word Search R S P MO J SWC P E X OH S E N N V B V L N T P S S V P N C L Z O B V GMO I H KMG C P R S J W U I X H WW S A A F WS O S I A I T X J S R I T H N I A S L DN L N J I H X V I F DN F S NOGD S N C O X E L D O T H C WW E A W Z E E U J S L K E OOHN L S F H F I Z B L XMR QU T H S N F O I S H O I C P C F N Z I I OWC H T H N D E E A U T O L QWZ Y DN A F I A E MG R X L GM VWA B H I N E H P I Y K S R Y E E C KMR GON I R S A K A R E S N A B E WW Z N H K B A T V C S DH S X Z E J G C I B N E S Y Z QWG A Y WGM T S N OWB O A R D I N G I N T S H E U X E E M KWO N X E S

V P D K C A N Y T N S K K A G I Z I U J

Answers on page 29

D F K N V HHH Y Q B G S R K Q AMG N Z V T D L P F O G B L Q L V YW N I C L GN E Q HH P K E I A V B Y N T N U Z G MQWD I T G L L N I L N L GQ E G B C

Did you KNOW?

• In 1918, the Spanish flu pandemic was responsible for at least 50 million deaths worldwide. The virus spread quickly, and was deadly, killing a majority of young and healthy people. About 500 million people were infected around the globe.

• Penicillin started being mass-produced in 1943. The medicine was discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1928. The drug played a vital role in treating infected wounds during the Second World War. • Between 1949 and 1954, nearly 11,000 people contracted polio in Canada. 500 people died. In the US, more than 57,000 people contracted the disease, and more than 3,000 died. The first polio vaccine, created by Dr. Jonas Salk, was licensed in 1955.

RVS TONGUE TWISTER

Brisk brave brigadiers brandished broad bright blades, blunderbusses, and bludgeons—balancing them badly.

CARLETON COUNTY

Colloquialisms

By John Morris

Geehover \jee-’hoe-ver\ interj/adj/adv - Also: Jeehover; Used usu. as an exclamation of frustration or emphasis, but also as a generic modifier; “Get in the Geehover car before I get Dad to whup ya.” Originating as a less pejorative version of the already benign, if somewhat archaic “Jehovah,” Geehover has universal appeal in that it can be used interchangeably as an interjection, adjective or an adverb, while avoiding more colorful and less acceptable words, all at the same time. See also: frigg, holy-liftin’, jeez, jeezum-crow.

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hockey WATCH FOR THE OPENING OF THE

A WINTER IN WOODSTOCK LET’S GET OUTSIDE AND PLAY! Time spent outdoors while being active is excellent for both your mental and physical health. We are now lending equipment to provide more opportunities and experiences, to embrace our winter season.

Equipment available:

Snowshoes and poles, inflatable snow tubes & toboggans

BOBBY VAIL OUTDOOR RINK FIELD HOUSE ACTIVITIES

WALK SAFELY THIS WINTER! Book your appointment to come walk on our WALKING TRACK!

LOOKING FOR SWIM FANATICS! Registration is OPEN!

Tentative start: February 1st, 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

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SWIMMING LESSONS - WINTER SESSION

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YOUTH ZONE After School Drop-In

ARENA ACTIVITIES

Public Skating: Sat. & Sun. 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

OPEN SKATE – ONLY $2

For Grades 6 to 9. Come hang out and enjoy lots of activities in the Field House Monday to Friday, 3:15 to 5 p.m.

It’s FREE - thanks to Woodstock Rotary Club (sponsor Mon-Thu) & Canadian Tire Jumpstart (sponsor Fri)

Mon. & Wed. 2:30-3:30 p.m., Tues. & Thur. 1:00-2:00 p.m.

Tot Skate: Tues. and Wed. 10 to 11 a.m.

Adult Skate: Mon. to Thurs. 12 to 1 p.m.

Face masks are MANDATORY.

FACEBOOK: Random Acts of Kindness In Memory of Evan Graham

Watch our Facebook page for updates on WINTER EVENTS and OPPORTUNITIES!

Let’s Celebrate Evan’s Birthday February 1st.

PLEASE BE KIND TO EACH OTHER!

PLEASE STAY SAFE!

22

ARTFELT

Arts and Culture News from Western New Brunswick

HORSES

A poem by Ashley Hanson, age 10, Centreville, N.B.

The glitter in their eyes, The freedom in their spirit.

My world, my love, my freedom.

The spirit of the horse is a beautiful thing, Like their skin, hair and eyes Their eyes, so beautiful and gentle.

Some horses want to sleep, and some... want to run.

Faster, faster, they run.

Some run for fun, some run from danger.

Some gentle, and some fierce and ready to protect.

But when you get on their back... it’s wonderful.

You want to go faster and faster.

The horse listens And there you are, riding the wind.

The wind blowing beneath you, The wind blowing through your hair.

And the best feeling... is to run.

Ashley Hanson riding Chance at Greenfield Stables, October 2020. (Sandra Hanson photo)

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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 23

Call me crazy during COVID Christmas

LAUGH LINES

By Colleen Landry

C

OVID-19 is the devil.

It ruined literally everything in 2020, so it only stands to reason it would also trash Christmas.

When our two grown sons told my husband and me they would not make it home for the holidays, we assured them it was okay, and we would be just fine all alone. Then I made a comfort meal of Pinot Noir and sleeping pills and woke up three days later in the ER. Call me crazy, but Christmas is supposed to be about your kids. Since becoming parents 25 years ago, we’ve trained hard for Christmas. It’s our calling!

We went overboard when the boys were preschoolers.

On Christmas Eve, my husband would get up on the roof to make Santa footprints and sleigh tracks.

While he was up there clomping around in subpolar temperatures, I had my own stress to deal with.

I turned on the fireplace, poured a glass of wine and penned the annual Christ-

mas poem from Santa (You try finding something that rhymes with ‘Be good to Mommy. She’s coming unhinged’ and see how far you get!).

We stayed up half the night to wrap presents, (even getting friends to sign them from ‘Santa’ lest the boys recognize our handwriting), ‘wrap’ the entryway to the living room, stuff the stockings, chew up a handful of carrots left for Rudolph, inhale the eight cookies left for Santa, try to decipher a convoluted riddle our five-year old left for Santa as a test to see if he was real, make a quiche for breakfast, get started on the turkey dressing and finally by 2 am, leave my husband alone to assemble the hockey net and drum kit because he very graciously suggested I get some rest, “Get it together and stop punching yourself in the face! Just go to bed!”

As they grew older, I created even more fun traditions — tearing to the mall in a panic on Dec. 24 to “even out their piles.”

Begging everyone to play games, so I have something to post on Facebook; spending Christmas Day alone in the kitchen kneedeep in turkey giblets; digging through garbage for receipts for clothes that didn’t fit. The boys no longer believed in Santa Claus at this point, but at the end

of the festivities, I was the one up on the roof yelling, “Don’t try to stop me!”

Let’s face it, the global pandemic has made a mockery of Christmas traditions. With our boys at opposite ends of the country muddling through the holidays with their friends and girlfriends, it was hard for me not to worry about them being away from home for the holidays.

To make sure they were okay, we texted them hourly to see if they wanted to Facetime again. It was wonderful to see their faces, but it was hard to make out what they were saying because their mouths were full of such rubbish as fresh oysters, prime rib and beef wellington. God love their precious little hearts for soldiering through without us and putting on such brave faces.

In the end, what choice did I have but to also be brave and let go of Christmas as I knew it? I did it through gritted teeth, mind you. Having my shopping done early in order to ship the boys their presents and not having to ‘even out their piles’ on Christmas Eve was the absolute worst, but almost as bad as hitting the road on Christmas day to mooch off friends and family in Fredericton rather than spending 15 hours alone in the kitchen. Watching my poor,

exhausted sister-in-law put the finishing touches on the turkey dinner while I refilled my wine glass is a pain I never want to experience again as long as I live. I didn’t know I had such strength!

In the end, despite evil COVID, we survived the first Christmas without our flesh and blood. I’ll have you know I’ve already started planning for next Christmas when we’ll be reunited. Stocked up on

half-price rolls of wrapping paper, bought some new games for photo ops, restocked the Pinot Noir and got the roof reinforced for good measure.

I know one thing for sure, I can’t wait for our tried-and-true Christmas traditions, the best of which is having our beloved loin fruits under our dented and slightly sagging roof. If they don’t make it home next year, I may need another visit to the ER as the result

of a self-inflicted punch to the face. Call me crazy.

Nackawic native Colleen Landry is an online teacher with the NB Department of Education.

She is the author of Miss Nackawic meets Midlife and co-author of the Camelia Airheart children’s adventure series. She and her husband live in Moncton; they have two grown sons who have flown the coop.

EXCITING NEWS!

IN W NE 21 20

AS OF JANUARY 2021, YOU CAN NOW RECYCLE: milk, juice, soup and other cartons!

Just place them in your blue container with your other recyclables!

Follow us on Facebook and refer to your 2021 recycling schedule! If you didn’t receive a schedule in your mailbox or pick it up with your River Valley Sun last month, contact us and we’ll send you one!

WVRSC - Waste Management Division www.rsc12.ca (506) 276-3610 ext 201 recycle@rsc12.ca

24

CONNECTION

Celebrating Inclusion, Diversity, and Community

Jacksontown man takes his advocacy to national level

Aaron Bouma vice-chair of committee overseeing development of autism strategy

By Jim Dumville

J

acksontown’s Aaron Bouma is taking his autism advocacy to a national level.

Bouma, the long-time vice-chair of the Autism Family Friendship Group, will now play a central role in developing the National Autism Strategy.

He will sit as vicechair of the oversight committee with the Canadian Association of Health Science assessment efforts to develop the national strategy.

“I can get to guide and direct the panel’s efforts,” said Bouma, who was diagnosed with au-

tism at the age of three and Asperger’s at 12.

He said he is one of two people with autism on the board, among the 30 people with autism involved in the project.

He said the project, which consists of three working groups and the oversight committee, includes nine specialists in the field.

Bouma said someone sent him details about the group, so he put his name forward.

“They contacted me and asked me to be vicechair of oversight,” he said.

Bouma said the working groups and oversight committee meet regular-

ly online.

“We started,” he said.

“We had a number of meetings.”

Bouma said they meet on average every two weeks, noting sits in on panel discussions and working groups.

“I’m able to add my insight to those groups,” he said.

Bouma expressed pride in the opportunity to help develop the National Autism Strategy, noting the importance of a wide-reaching longterm plan to provide support for people and families dealing with autism.

He said the strategy must include opportunities for people, like him-

self, to work and live productive lives.

Bouma has long been a prominent voice locally on the issue of autism. In his role with the Autism Family Friendship Group, he helped develop activities and support for autistic children and adults in Carleton County and neighbouring counties.

He said the COVID-19 pandemic limited the local group’s effectiveness last year.

“It hurt the amount of activities we can hold,” Bouma said.

In addition to his double vice-chair roles, the young Jacksontown man continues to move forward on his passion Top left: Jacksontown’s Aaron Bouma, Sgt.-atArms for Woodstock Royal Canadian Legion Branch 11, salutes. Bouma is the vice-chair of the oversight committee with the Canadian Association of Health Science assessment efforts to develop a national autism strategy. Bottom: Aaron Bouma built several models of military weapons, including this model of the C-1 105mm Howitzer. Bouma is also the long-time vice-chair of the Autism Family Friendship group. (Submitted photos)

project. Billing himself as Carleton County’s military expert, Bouma continues his efforts to open a military museum.

Known for his intricately detailed models of military weapons, vehicles, ships and planes, Bouma maintains a growing collection of military memorabilia, much of it related to the local region.

“I’ve all kinds of different stuff,” he said, noting tunics from the First and Second World Wars, badges, shells, and other artifacts helping detail military history.

He said a significant part of his collection focuses on Carleton Coun-

ty veterans and armed force units with local connections.

“The museum is going well,” Bouma said.

“I’m hoping this summer we can get a building started.”

He said volunteers already offered to help build the museum, but construction will depend on the type of COVID-19 protocols in place.

The virus may also affect his military and warhistory presentations at schools and libraries.

Bouma remains an active member of the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 11 in Woodstock, currently serving as its Sgt.-in Arms.

Hon. Margaret Johnson Carleton-Victoria MLA Minister of Agriculture, Aquaculture, and Fisheries

Constituency Office

836 Central Street Centreville, NB E7K 2E7 Office: (506) 276-4045 Cell: (506) 324-4061

Office hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays

Thank you for your support!

From the bottom, sides, and top of my heart! I couldn’t have done 2020 without you! Cheers to 2021!

www.pilateswithpurpose.ca hannah@pilateswithpurpose.ca 506 . 328 . 1820

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 25

RVS SUNSHINE KID AVONDALE KITCHENS

AMAZING KITCHEN TRANSFORMATIONS Residence of Jeremy Smith and Katelynn Burpee Smith

SUNSHINE SMILE: Meet four-and-a-half-month-old Kensey Jean, who just learned how to roll over. Daughter of Melissa and Jonathan, this little Woodstock gal loves chewing on anything she can get her hands on, practicing her new roll-over skills, and screaming for joy! Kensey doesn’t know what she wants to be when she grows up, but if her dad has any influence, she might just be a professional golfer! (Submitted photo) Submit your sunshine kid or kids photos to theresa@rivervalleysun.ca

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

Look them up on Facebook.

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

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26

Man arrested following search of Newbridge home Police seize drugs, firearms, and stolen ATV and snowmobile

By Jim Dumville

R

CMP arrested a 39-year-old man following the execution of a search warrant in Newbridge Thursday morning, Dec. 17.

In a media release on Dec. 18, the RCMP said the arrest came in connection with the seizure of drugs, a firearm and two stolen off-road vehicles..

The release said RCMP officers executed the search warrant at 8:55 a.m. at a residence on Route 585 as part of an ongoing investigation into drug trafficking.

Police seized quantities of what it believes to be cocaine, crystal methamphetamine, cannabis, as well as a firearm, a prohibited weapon, four

airsoft guns, contraband cigarettes, drug paraphernalia, and money.

Police also seized an allterrain vehicle and snowmobile they believed stolen.

During the search, officers arrested the man, who was later released and scheduled to appear in Woodstock provincial court on Mar. 2, 2021.

RCMP display weapons, drugs and other items seized in Newbridge raid on Dec. 17.

(Submitted photos)

Police said the investigation is part of a coordinated law enforcement approach that involves resources from the New Brunswick RCMP, including Police Dog Services, the Woodstock Police Force and the Fredericton Police Force. These efforts focus on disrupting and dismantling the trafficking of illegal drugs

in New Brunswick, targeting those causing the most harm in our communities.

In the release, police reminded the public that it plays an essential role in reducing, preventing, and solving crime, including the trafficking of illegal drugs.

Police ask anyone with information about,

or who suspects, illegal drug activity in their neighbourhood to contact their local police.

Members of the public can provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at www. crimenb.ca.

RCMP also seized what they believe to be a stolen snowmobile and an ATV. (Submitted photo)

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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 27

Woodstock council approves complex for St. John Street Developers plan to erect 14-unit building on land that straddles two streets

By Jim Dumville

W

oodstock council approved the third and final reading at the Dec. 21 council meeting, clearing the way for developers to build a 14unit apartment complex at 107 St. John Street.

Despite significant pushback against the construction of the complex from homeowners in the residential area, council approved the rezoning from R1 singleunit residential to R3 multi-unit residential.

However, Council members and the PAC did impose a series of conditions to meet the concerns raised by project opponents.

Conditions include the requirement the building cannot exceed

more than 14 units, that the main entrance and exit be off Elm Street and other limitations.

While the address will be on St. John Street, the developers agreed to make the main entrance off Elm Street, addressing concerns over increased traffic on St. John, a narrow residential street. Elm Street, which runs parallel to St. John, is wider and already a heavily used street carrying motorists from Main Street to Connell Street.

Before final reading, both Deputy Mayor Amy Anderson and Coun.

Catherine Sutherland sought assurance from Director of Public Works and Development Officer Andrew Garnett that the developers must meet all

conditions if the rezoning passed.

“They’ll have to meet all requirements,” said Garnett. “They’re listed, so they absolutely have to do it.”

As the town’s development officer, he said, it’s his job to ensure the developers meet all conditions.

Garnett said it is also his job to ensure the building meets setback requirements of 25 feet from the street, that paving, curb and gutters and driveway dimensions meet town bylaws, and drainage requirements meet town standards.

In response to Deputy Mayor Amy Anderson’s question, Garnett said the developers require no variances to proceed with construction.

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Meet Century 21 All Seasons File photo.

VIDEO INTERVIEWS ON THE RIVER VALLEY SUN FACEBOOK PAGE On Saturday, Jan. 9, URVH Emergency Room physician Hanif Chatur received the second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. The River Valley Sun’s Theresa Blackburn talked to him about his experience. Find this and other interviews on our Facebook page.

Realtor Jordan Currie

FO SA R LE

Combining two passions: Real Estate and Minor Hockey You might say real estate is in Jordan’s blood. Since the age of eight, the Woodstock native has been putting up signs and travelling around New Brunswick helping people find their dream homes with two amazing realtors who happen to be his grandparents – Linda Currie and Reg McElroy.

Jordan has now officially joined the Century 21 All Seasons Realty team and is excited to continue with the family tradition of quality service.

Jordan is not just a realtor, he’s also a hockey player and coach. With his new career, he can marry both of his passions by offering top-notch service to clients while giving back to his hockey community. Jordan is donating 10% of his sales to the Woodstock Minor Hockey Association! Welcome to the team, Jordan!

Buying or selling, call Jordan today at 506-323-0430 Century 21 All Season Realty 655 Main Street, Woodstock, NB century21allseasonsrealty.ca

28

IN FOCUS

Putting the Spotlight on People in Your Community

Woodstock Police Force introduces newest members Abby Derrah and Josef Clements hired as casual police officers

By Jim Dumville

W

oodstock council gave unanimous approval to the addition of two new members to the Woodstock Police Force.

Josef Clements and Abby Derrah, accompanied by Chief Gary Forward, attended the council meeting held Dec. 21 at the AYR Motors Centre.

Clements and Derrah, along with Ryan Paul, joined the force in July, working as cadet constables until Sept. 26, when they returned to the Atlantic Police Academy to attend graduation.

Forward praised all three cadets, saying they served the force and the community well. He told council members he welcomes Derrah and Cle-

ments as casual officers.

“I just have to say that Josef and Abby performed admirably. They had a great summer. We asked a lot of them, and they responded in kind without a complaint,” he said.

With the recently completed budget providing space for hiring two casuals, Forward said the force was happy to offer the positions to Derrah and Clements.

Mayor Art Slipp told the young officers, “welcome aboard.”

Derrah, who grew up in Florenceville-Bristol, attended Carleton North High School.

Clements, originally from England, lived the last 10 years in Bedell.

Woodstock Police Force Chief Gary Forward is flanked by the force’s newest members, Josef Clements, right, and Abby Derrah, left, who will join the force as casual officers for 2021. (Jim Dumville photo)

Thrill of a Lifetime (Part Four): ATVing in Newfoundland

BEAUTIFUL BUMBLES

By Linda McHatten

S

eptember 22.

Today we leave Badger and bumble back towards the west coast.

Like everything else, COVID-19 means our tour was revised. Instead of starting in Argentia, we began in Port aux Basques because the ferry from North Sydney to Argentia was cancelled for the 2020 season. Usually, the tour would take us from east to west (Argentia to Port aux Basques).

Our destination will take us 153 kilometres to Deer Lake. It was a great day visiting some sites we did

not see earlier in the week.

Leaving Badger, we travel through Millertown Junction, where we stop to look at the railroad museum.

Continuing through the Gaff Topsails, I find some partridge berries, a relative of the cranberry family and grow in the dry, acidic soils of Newfoundland/Labrador’s barren coastal headlands. I had the chance to try partridge berry jam at Bill and Ann’s. It was delicious, but then I love cranberry jam. We stop to refuel in Howley and pick up a few souvenirs.

Not far from Howley, we stop at Grand Lake, the largest lake in Newfoundland/Labrador. It is man-made and 100 kms long with beautiful sandy shorelines. I could have stayed here all day walking the shoreline. There was lots of sand to clean out of our footwear and side-bysides. Above the lake is the largest dam in Newfoundland/Labrador. Built during

Sandy shores of man-made Grand Lake. The lake is the largest in Newfoundland and Labrador. (Linda McHatten photo)

the early 1920s, it holds up to eight million cubic meters of water in Grand Lake. Its purpose is to raise water levels on the lake, causing water to channel through an 11-km canal to Deer Lake Hydro Electric Station, creating power for the Corner Brook Pulp and Paper mill. I believe the gates are still opened now

and again if the water gets too high in the lake. Some say the dam is haunted.

The story is of a worker named Sam who fell into the freshly laid concrete where he became trapped and died. He remains buried in the concrete.

Today’s bumble ends at the Driftwood Inn in Deer Lake. Relaxing and fresh-

ening up is on the agenda until an early evening supper at Pizza Delight. We’re thankful to the Town of Deer Lake for allowing ATV’s to travel on designated town streets as this was our means of getting downtown to Pizza Delight.

We enjoyed supper while practicing COVID regulations. Back to the Inn

for a good night’s sleep.

We wish you all a Happy New Year. STAY SAFE!

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

THE SNOW HAs arriveD!

Let Clarkview Outdoor Living Solutions help you with snowclearing this winter!

Call Corey @ 506.612.1093 or email corey.clark@clarkview.ca

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 29

It’s beginning to look a lot like... COVID LIVING HISTORY

By Doris Kennedy The following is a fictional account of a true story.

“C

ome in, come in. It’s cold out there,” Mom says as she removes her apron. In the mornings, Mom habitually dresses in case she gets company. She wears an apron for protection like her mother always did.

“It is cold out there!”

My aunt exclaims with emphasis on the “is.”

She stamps her boots on the floor of the porch before entering. She is copied and followed by my uncle and their four daughters.

“Are you up for company?” she adds.

“Of course, I will put

on the kettle and bring out my cooking made just for this occasion.”

“Where are all the kids?” asks their oldest child.

“They just went with their father to cut down a Christmas tree on his woodlot. They should be along soon,” Mom replies.

“Jimmy always finds the perfect tree,” my uncle tells his daughter.

“Well, he does, but sometimes they come home with a large hole between the branches.

To make it perfect, he drills into the trunk and sticks a branch in the area to cover the space.

It is a good thing the tree is only up a few days,” Mom confesses with a giggle.

They made their way into the living room and settled in for a visit.

Having friends and relatives during the Christmas season is a common and expected occurrence. In November, Mom and her mother baked pies, cookies,

cakes and puddings while the children rehearsed songs, verses, and drama lines.

In our family, there were many celebratory Christian events at church and school during December with concerts, carolling and plays.

One special community event was when “Santa comes to town” the day before Christmas. Years ago, he arrived by sleigh to where the town’s 20-foot fir tree stood decorated in hundreds of bright lights. It stood in front of the gas station at the end of the bridge or in Heber Hatfield’s garden behind the stone fence. Of late, he began coming to the local Capitol Theatre.

“Are you going to see Santa tomorrow?” asks mom to the children.

“Oh, yes, we are.

Daddy is taking us,” replies they’re oldest.

“What are you going to say to Santa this year?”

“I’m going to tell him I have been a really good

girl this year, and I would like him to bring me an Easy-Bake oven.”

“What about you, Kathryn?”

“I want a Chatty Cathy doll. I hope they give out the big brown bags of candy. Do you think they will, Aunt Dorothy?”

“I expect they will.

What about you, Susan?” “ Will they have the big TV screen with cartoons?”

“They usually do. They will probably have lots of Christmas songs. Remember when they start singing the song ‘Here Comes Santa Claus’ that usually means Santa has arrived.”

The children focus on what she is saying with wide eyes and mouths stretched in smiles.

The Christmas season always came to an end after the opening of presents, and all the adults lay on the nearest sofa or chair in a postChristmas dinner coma.

Years of gatherings and celebrations all

came to an abrupt halt in the year 2020. Since we are of the older generation and vulnerable, Facetime and text messages became our best friend. Two-metre distances replaced a warm embrace, and masks hid expressions of love and cheer. There were no customary community or school gatherings, and church services were over the Internet.

Zoom replaced Christmas dinner and family gatherings instead of surrounding a table for meals or games. Home decorations were seen only through the Internet. Under the tree were brown packages with a big black smile or white Purolator bags.

The customs we cherished and took for granted were challenged on a daily basis. Questions were posed that never had to be considered before. Is it safe to go to church? Should I or shouldn’t I go to my sisters? Do I have my hand sanitizer with me?

Where is my mask? Is this cough due to dry weather, or has my health changed?

It is a foreign concept to think a friend’s visit may infect us but essential to think they could.

All these concerns controlled our Covid Christmas.

What will 2021 bring?

Christmas, weddings, concerts, leisure activities, education and livelihoods have changed from the way we were.

It is totally up to all of us to protect each other and follow the guidelines of the professionals. Until we do, the virus will be in control.

Here’s to “A Holly Jolly Covid-Free Year!”

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

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

WINTER ACTIVITIES

RVS Word Search Answers

The family enjoys dessert after Christmas dinner in 1953. (Submitted photo)

R S P MO J SWC P E X OH S E N N V B V L N T P S S V P N C L Z O B V GMO I H KMG C P R S J W U I X H WW S A A F WS O S I A I T X J S R I T H N I A S L DN L N J I H X V I F DN F S NOGD S N C O X E L D O T H C WW E A W Z E E U J S L K E OOHN L S F H F I Z B L XMR QU T H S N F O I S H O I C P C F N Z I I OWC H T H N D E E A U T O L QWZ Y DN A F I A E MG R X L GM VWA B H I N E H P I Y K S R Y E E C KMR GON I R S A K A R E S N A B E WW Z N H K B A T V C S DH S X Z E J G C I B N E S Y Z QWG A Y WGM T S N OWB O A R D I N G I N T S H E U X E E M KWO N X E S cross country skiingdownhill skiing

V P D K C A N Y T N S K K A G I Z I U J

D F K N V HHH Y Q B G S R K Q AMGN Z V T D L P F O G B L Q L V YW N I C L GN E Q HH P K E I A V B Y N T N U Z G MQWD I T G L L N I L N L GQ E G B C

winter camping

snowboard

snowshoeing ice fishing snow angels build a sno Reach out to David Asbell and his knowledgeable team for skating sliding bonfire hockey affordable coverage to protect the important things in life!

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30

Cursing cancer while embracing the memories

My Big Fat Life

I

By Theresa Blackburn

went through my emails recently. I wanted to re-read the wonderful letters that Phyllis and I exchanged early in our relationship. They were heartwarming and heartbreaking to read.

Phyllis Prendergast and I have been friends since 2007. She was a reader of my weekly Fredericton Gleaner column, My Big Fat Life. It seems fitting that my tribute to her is in a column of the same name. She first wrote to tell me she was a fan, explaining she was a Carleton County girl who grew up in Grafton. We made a plan to visit the next time she was in town

to see her father, Willard Lawson. Our connection was instant. After that initial meeting, we would always visit when she was here. I stopped in and sometimes stayed with her when I was in Fredericton for meetings.

She was a people person. She was quick to share herself with others, and was the kind of friend you could call in a pinch for help, or call and ask out to dinner to celebrate. She’d show up in a flash, either way.

I don’t think I ever saw her without a smile. Her face lit up when she talked of her father, Willard, her husband, Ronnie, or her granddaughters, Emily and Olivia.

Over the years we shopped together, lunched together (a lot!), went to local musical events together, and swam in my backyard pool. We even ‘crashed’ Amy Anderson’s wedding with friends. We took walks, talked on the phone, exchanged silly messages on Facebook and through email, and never left each other without a big, long hug. I loved her. I find it hard to accept that she’s gone.

I texted when my daughter was pregnant with our first grandchild, and she called to share the loss her beloved dog, Bitters. The last time we saw each other was in June. I loaded her phone with a

Phyllis (Lawson) Prendergast 1951-2020 A bright light was dimmed on December 14, 2020, with the passing of Phyllis Faye (Lawson) Prendergast of Fredericton. While most obituaries begin with how a person has died, Phyllis’s family, loved ones, and friends felt hers needed to start with how she lived. Phyllis was born in Woodstock on February 1, 1951, the eldest child to proud parents Willard and the late Marion (Sheppard) Lawson of Grafton, N.B. Phyllis loved music as much as she loved her community.

She moved to Fredericton in 1970, and quickly became a “face of Fredericton.”

She loved the city and worked tirelessly to support the many causes that touched her heart. She lent her talents to Pension Coalition NB, the Canadian Cancer Society, Meals on Wheels, the Scarlett Sisters, and the Happy Hatters. Phyllis never met a music event she didn’t love. She helped out with anything organizers needed. She offered her time and administrative skills to the River Jam Music Festival, the Dooryard Arts and Music Festival, the Shivering Songs Festival, and the Larlee Creek Hullabaloo Music Festival. She was best known for her dedication to the Harvest Jazz and Blues Festival. For 27 years, Phyllis was a driving force within that organization, including taking on the role of festival chair for a year, a job she was immensely proud of.

Phyllis was a graduate from Southern Carleton Regional High School and the Carleton County Vocational School. She began her career as a civil servant with the Province of New Brunswick right after school, and spent more than 30 years at the New Brunswick Department of Health. She enjoyed the camaraderie of work, but she loved retirement, as it gave her more time to volunteer, but also to be with her granddaughters, her father, her friends, and provided more opportunity to spoil her husband, Ronnie.

Meeting Phyllis meant meeting an instant friend. She gave the best hugs – a trait she inherited from her father, whom she adored. She gifted many friends and family members with her knitted art, and enjoyed good, long, fast-paced walks. She worked hard to keep herself healthy, keeping her diabetes in check, and, in doing so, provided inspiration to others.

She loved her four legged children, and mourned Tammy, Bitters, Tyson and her cat Amanda when they crossed over to Rainbow Bridge. Phyllis passed away at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital in Fredericton after a brief battle with cancer.

She is survived by the love of her life, and husband of 48 years, Ronnie; son, Mark of Fredericton; granddaughters, Emily Greenlaw Prendergast of Bayside, and Olivia McDonald-Prendergast of Shemogue; father, Willard Lawson of Grafton; brothers Guy Lawson (Judy) of Grafton, Dale Lawson (Susan) of Woodstock, Terry Lawson (Priscilla) of Bathurst, Danny Lawson of Fredericton, Chris Lawson (Heather) of Woodstock; sister Cindy Kinney (Kirk) of Woodstock; Aunts Joyce Sewell (Ralph) of Pembroke, and Carol Likely of Fredericton; Uncles Frank Lawson (Fredericton), and Lloyd (Wilma) Lawson of Grafton, and several nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her mother, Marion (Sheppard) Lawson.

The family would like to thank Phyllis’s dear friends Samantha Norrad, Carolann Doherty, and Susan Duplacey, as well as those who have sent prayers, cards, and phone calls during this difficult time. Special thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff of 4SW at the DECH, who provided excellent and compassionate care. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Carleton Funeral Home and Crematorium.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, there will be no visitation or funeral at this time.

Interment will take place in the spring of 2021, where her ashes will be interred at the Lawson-Ballentine Cemetery, Bull Lake, N.B. In lieu of flowers expressions of sympathy can be made to Meals on Wheels, the Canadian Cancer Society, or the charity of the donor’s choice.

Phyllis and her father, Willard Lawson, in June of 2012. (Theresa Blackburn photo)

new walking playlist. We spent the afternoon in my office talking and laughing.

She was a woman I could share anything with. She was wise, and smart, and the best listener.

Her passion was music, but it was helping others that filled her cup. She volunteered with so many musical festivals.

When she wasn’t stamping hands, setting up chairs, organizing volunteers, or ushering artists to and from stages, she was offering help to friends who needed a hand, an ear, or a shoulder.

She was my twin in that respect. We both knew judgement of others and their circumstances needs to be left to a higher power. Like me, she believed love and gifts should always be bestowed without conditions.

She always saw the glass as half-full.

She understood life better than most. A prime example can be found in an email she sent me in March 2008 as we chatted back and forth about self worth.

“We need to be reminded of what’s important; that our lives are meaningful and that we are worthy. We most definitely

need to get to a place where we are happy with ourselves regardless of how we look – what’s important is how we feel about ourselves. We’ll never be perfect and we will always want to change something about ourselves, but to feel content and be in our own happy place is what will give us the confidence to continue on with our challenges.”

Phyllis never judged a book by its cover, or by its bank account. She was as genuine as they came. In the last decade, she focused on controlling her diabetes and getting healthy so could continue to be there for the ones she loved. Sadly, cancer had other plans.

I never had the chance to say a proper goodbye. I never had the chance to tell her how much her friendship meant to me. I never had the chance to tell her how much I admired her. At least she knows now...

Theresa’s big, fat, busy life includes a firefighter husband, three children, a greyhound, a cat, serving on Woodstock Town Council, volunteering, and her family’s growing publishing business.

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SPORTS

Highlights and Features of Local Sports and Sporting Events

A sports-movie review

The Queen’s Gambit: A ‘pump-up’ series with a chess board

By Andrew McCormick

T

here is never a straight line to success.

“The Queen’s Gambit,” the seven-part Netflix series, is a perfect example of this, taking the viewer on a highly competitive windy curbhugging stretch of emotion without a hint of how the finish will play out.

Beth Harmon, orphaned after her mother kills herself driving straight-on into a truck, moves into an orphanage for girls, where she learns the grand game of chess and the pitfalls of addiction.

The orphanage’s janitor is a chess player that Harmon discovers one day when she is cleaning erasers in the orphanage basement. Peering through the flying chalk dust, Harmon sees the janitor, Mr. Schreiber, as he sits in front of his chessboard on the other

side of the room.

Harmon, possessing a gifted brain that embraces shapes and numbers, is immediately attracted to the chessboard design.

Set in the ‘50s and ‘60s, Queen’s Gambit explores a time in which chess is not a mainstream sport in the U.S., and certainly not for 11-year-old girls.

Harmon’s persistence to learn the game and her natural ability to visualize and readily capture the game’s intricacies convince Schreiber to mentor Harmon.

His game is deliberate, and practices proper etiquette. Harmon’s instincts are to attack and win at all costs.

Queen’s Gambit captures the drama of competition in each episode.

It’s like watching the ultimate “pump up” movie - let’s say the original Rocky -seven times over.

Unless you’ve had the will to win at all costs, you may not get all you can out of The Queens Gambit. The subtleties and gamesmanship of high-level competition are evident in game-play facial expressions and actions throughout the series. The games are convincingly real, and therefore if you even have a spark of inner competition, you’ll still become hooked.

The orphanage serves mood-altering pills to the orphans, and Harmon succumbs to pill addiction, which she uses to empower her chess ability. She fights these demons throughout each episode to the final show.

The Russians dominated chess for years and the series captures the Cold War battle in relating to sports. The Russian and world champion Borgov is expressionless

in competition. Almost robotic.

As Harmon becomes a teenager and is adopted, her life is a continuous embattlement between the inner challenge of doing right and the thrill of doing wrong.

When clean of booze and pills, her brain is locked in becoming a world champion chess player. Her American competitors identify her as their best American chance to knock off the Russians at their own game and soon offers to become her coaches and mentors.

No longer a teenager, Harmon exudes intimidating confidence at the chess table. She steamrolls her more experienced male opponents in play around the world.

However, like her friends, coaches and mentors, viewers will feel alienated by her choices. Harmon’s demons remain

ever-present and force a constant balancing act between drugs and becoming the world’s best chess player.

All the traits of competitive sports are present in The Queen’s Gambit: gamesmanship, intimidation, resiliency, grit, exhaustion.

The series leaves a legacy for these COVID times, with chess serving as the perfect sport during isolation. It requires competitive fire, strategy and foresight.

There will be chess boards under Christmas trees this year as a result of The Queen’s Gambit.

The game will grow and introduce a whole new language (of chess terminology) to the public.

Harmon’s greatest

skill is her vision of the game, much like Gretzky, the Great One, visualized the ice like no other.

Can she do it sober?

The final scene is fitting. When the competition ends in Moscow, Harmon walks into a common outdoor area a space with perhaps 30 chess tables set up - as a large group of aging Russian chess-lifers play their comrades each day.

The elder statesmen recognize and greet Harmon. Eyeing an empty chair at a table, she sits down, looks across the table and says to her Russian opponent, “poigraem” (“let’s play”).

The series gave me chills. I give “The Queen’s Gambit” 5 goosebumps out of 5 goosebumps.

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(Courtesy of Netflix)

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SERVING YOUR COMMUNITY SINCE 1946 !

We began as a creamery, and have continually evolved to meet the needs of our community.

From our groceries to gas, to seeds, animal feed, farm supplies, and our NB Liquor outlet, the Carleton Co-op continues to put our customers first.

Thank you for the support you have shown us over the last 75 years. In turn, we continue to give back to our community, through the support of many community fundraisers and initiatives.

Here’s to the next 75 years of continued growth and service!

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www. carletoncoop.ca