RVS July 2024 Vol 6 Iss 7

RIVER VALLEY SUN

Celebrating service to others

Rotarians pay homage to community heroes with Paul Harris Fellowships and other awards

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The Woodstock Rotary Club celebrated its ongoing success in serving the Upper St. John River Valley community and several individuals who helped ensure that success during a special dinner on Monday night, June 24.

During a ceremony at the Best Western Woodstock, the club combined the Paul Harris Fellowship awards presentation with the annual President’s Dinner, celebrating the past year’s success and future goals.

The evening’s highlight saw the Woodstock Ro-

tary present the International Rotary Club’s most prestigious honour, a Paul Harris Fellowship, to four deserving individuals — former Hartland Mayor Betty Lou Craig, former Woodstock Mayor Arthur Slipp, the late community leader Brian Hayden and active Rotarian and business leader Corey Clark. The Rotary Club presents the Paul Harris Fellow Award — named in honour of Chicago attorney Paul Percy Harris, who founded the humanitarian organization in 1905 — to club members and others who made out-

standing contributions to the community.

As outgoing Woodstock Rotary President Rob McCormack and Rotarian retired Dr.Gary Beatty stated during the ceremonies, Monday evening’s four recipients surpassed the fellowship standards through their outstanding contributions and inspirational service to their communities.

The award includes a $1,000 (USD) donation in the recipient’s name to Rotary International’s Annual Program Fund which

See SERVICE on pg. 2

A rare soul with a rare cancer

Jade Rhymer’s family thankful for donations and support

By Paige Morgan

Jade Rhymer is a smiley 11-month-old who loves to share with others.

Jade can be seen singing along to her favourite song, “Wagon Wheel” by Darius Rucker. Her love for music has made her a dance machine, even though she can barely walk.

Her easygoing nature makes it hard to find her in a bad mood; she always laughs and plays.

This smart and curious girl has another thing that makes her unique.

Jade was diagnosed with stage four hepato-

blastoma, a rare liver cancer that affects children ages three and under. Jade’s doctors at the IWK Health Centre in Halifax found a large mass in her liver. Hepatoblastoma rarely spreads. However, doctors identified two other masses located in her heart and lungs.

On the morning of May 11, Guy and Maxine Rhymer took Jade from Hartland to the nearby Upper River Valley Hospital in Waterville. However, after receiving shocking news, they were rushed to the IWK Children’s

Hospital in Halifax.

“I thought we were going to get medicine and take her home,” said Jade’s mother, Maxine.

Jade’s parents started noticing something was wrong when she began vomiting several times a day. Jade was dry-heaving the day of her appointment. Guy and Maxine immediately knew their baby’s condition was bad. They were shocked to find out what was wrong with their happy girl.

“I was devastated. We knew something was in her chest, but we didn’t

know what it was until we got here,” said Maxine. Cleveland Clinic says hepatoblastoma affects around one to two children in one million. It is primarily treated with chemotherapy and surgery.

Doctors occasionally use radiation therapy to remove cancer cells that surgery could not remove and ablation therapy when hepatoblastoma reappears.

Jade has been going through chemotherapy since arriving at the IWK.

Woodstock Rotary Club recognized four individuals with the Paul Harris Fellowship Awards on June 24. From left are Corey Clark, Betty Lou Craig, Susan Hayden, accepting on behalf of her late husband Brian Hayden, and Arthur Slipp. (Jim Dumville photo)

Guy and Maxine are leaning on each other for support while at the IWK Health Centre with their daughter Jade. (Submitted photo)

Continued from page 1

fuels Rotary’s worldwide initiatives.

Betty Craig Beatty presented the first award to Craig, describing her as “a woman of action.”

“A wife to John and mother of three — Ben, Megan and Katelyn — she works tirelessly to make Hartland, Carleton County, and New Brunswick a better place to live,” said Beatty.

Craig’s long list of accomplishments showcases someone who recognizes a community need and goes into action.

In 1987, recognizing the need for a kindergarten in Hartland, she helped create JOY Kindergarten, which today is JOY preschool. From that point on, Craig’s leadership and accomplishments helped establish the Dr. Walter Chestnut Public Library and the Central Carleton Chamber of Commerce.

Craig played pivotal roles in essential fundraising projects, including the Hartland Community School, the former Carleton Memorial Hospital and the Upper River Valley Hospital, where she currently cochairs the URVH Foundation.

She helped raise money for the Canadian Cancer Society, Red Cross, Sanctuary House, Woodstock Baptist Church projects,

Craig was elected Hartland’s first female mayor in 1998. Over the past decade, she and her husband John, who works for the family firm Craig Manufacturing, have sponsored the Turn Around Awards for parts of the Anglophone West School District.

“I’m sure I’ve left out many of Betty Lou’s achievements, but I’m sure you’ll all agree that she has “given” to her community and deserves this recognition as a Paul Harris Fellow,” said Beatty.

Craig praised the Rotary Club, noting its widespread support for the community, including its “wonderful donation,” for the URVH Foundation’s multi-million-dollar MRI project.

“I truly truly thank you for this,” she said. “It’s very touching and means a lot.”

Arthur Slipp Rotarian Ed Barrett introduced and presented Slipp with the Paul Harris Fellowship, joking that the former teacher, school and community leader, mayor, and UMNB exec-

utive’s list of accomplishments may make them miss the first period of the NHL Game 7 final on Monday night.

“Arthur Slipp has been a significant contributor to our town and the surrounding area in many different ways – as a teacher, a coach, a team and consensus builder, a councillor, and the second longest running Mayor of Woodstock after L. P. Fisher,” explained Barrett.

He noted Slipp’s tremendous contributions to Woodstock High School, where he taught from 1972 to 2004. He listed Slipp’s extensive accomplishments beyond the classroom and his leadership within the school and provincially with the New Brunswick Teachers Association.

Barrett then listed the staggering number of community boards and committees upon which Slipp served, including the Valley Food Bank, L.P. Fisher Library, Carleton County Historical Society, Sports Wall of Fame, Carleton Civic Centre Fund Raising Committee, several committees surrounding the Carleton Civic Centre and AYR Motor Centre and a host of positions on minor hockey committees and boards.

Barrett detailed Slipp’s vital roles with the Union of Municipalities of New Brunswick (UMNB), the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), and numerous provincial committees.

Barrett continued his long list of Slipp’s accomplishments by outlining the many Woodstock assets Slipp championed as a councillor and mayor.

“Much of the work of the Rotary Club has involved working with Art, and he has always been there, spending countless hours making sure things get done,” said Barrett. “To say that Arthur Slipp has contributed to his community is an understatement . Art has made it his life’s work to make our community a great place for everyone to live.”

Slipp thanked the Rotary Club for the honour by quoting the club’s mottoes, “Service Above Self” and “He Profits Most Who Serves Best.”

He noted how the club and the town partner on many wonderful projects.

“It has been a joy and my pleasure to have been a part of some of those amazing projects,” Slipp said. “During my time on council, we were blessed to have had tremendous administrative leadership and strong councillors to guide and direct the growth of our town.”

Brian Hayden

Beatty returned to the podium to posthumously award Hayden, a highly respected community leader who died suddenly in 2023.

He recounted how Hayden, born in 1953, headed off to Mt. Allison University In the early ‘70s before returning to his hometown in 1975 to make his mark as a businessman and community leader.

“He returned with a Bachelor of Science and Susan – who was definitely the bigger prize,” said Beatty.

Brian and Susan married in 1978 and started a family — Amanda, Gregory, Katelyn, Daniel, and Rachel.

Beatty detailed Hayden’s business skills, starting with his father’s car dealership and then branching into real estate and modular homes.

“But Brian’s true calling was to give – to his community,” said Beatty. “He patiently and generously gave his time to childrenthrough minor hockey, the Woodstock Figure Skating Club and The Children’s Wish Foundation.

Beatty noted Hayden’s support of church projects and his long dedication to local government through several roles with the local service district and regional service commission.

Beatty explained Hayden’s compassion and caring were no better displayed than through his support, generosity and compassion for the seniors at Carleton Manor. Hayden sat on both the manor board and the foundation board.

An emotional Susan thanked the club for honouring her late husband’s contributions to the community.

Susan said Brian, like many volunteers, got more out of volunteering than he gave.

“Brian was a big volunteer without a doubt, but you know a good volunteer is a selfish person.” she said.

While Susan admitted that might sound strange, helping the seniors at the Carleton Manor or dealing with children at the skating club brightened Brian’s spirits.

She recalled that when he came home or to the office after a manor visit, she asked, “How are your folks?”

Susan explained how Brian would enthusiastically recount his interactions with the residents.

She said the same situation would occur when he returned from skating practice.

“He’d say, oh those kids are so sweet. Oh my God. They’re so sweet,” Susan recalled.

She said Brian was a true volunteer who benefitted from his actions to benefit others.

Corey Clark

When Corey Clark arrived at the Best Western Woodstock for the awards evening and president’s dinner, he had no idea he was among those being recognized for his ongoing Rotary Club efforts. Finding his parents, Weldon and Mavis, in attendance provided a hint that something was up.

Woodstock businessman and long-time Rotarian Scott Dunlop presented Clark with the Paul Harris Fellowship Award.

Dunlop described how Corey, who became a Rotarian in 2018, used his skillset to help guide the club through the pandemic.

Born and raised in Woodstock, Clark left Woodstock after high school to study information technology in Moncton. After working in IT for several years, Clark returned to Woodstock in 2011.

Dunlop noted Clark

changed career paths in 2016, establishing a landscaping and snowremoval business called Clarkview Outdoor Living Solutions.

Upon joining Rotary, Clark became an active member in several areas, but Dunlop noted his fellow Rotarian’s efforts on the Bingo and Dance and Draw committees.

“He quickly moved onto the board and was our club secretary during this last 2023-2024 Rotary year,” explained Dunlop. “He will sit on the board as president elect this year and will move into the president position for the 2025-26 year.”

Dunlop explained that Clark’s Paul Harris Fellowship results from “his initiative and dedication” in using his computer and broadcasting skills to enhance the club’s fundraising, especially during the pandemic.

“When people were not allowed to socialize, our annual in-person dance fundraiser was on hold,” recalled Dunlop. “And when Rotarians were not permitted into the radio station for weekly Bingo, we had to shift gears. Corey came to our rescue.

Dunlop detailed how Clark used his skillset to relaunch and enhance Bingo online during COVID restrictions. The ongoing results of Clark’s efforts increased Bingo participation to several hundred per week, Dunlop explained.

He said Clark used those skills to deliver two consecutive successful Virtual Kitchen Dance Parties during pandemic restrictions. After social distancing was lifted, Clark continued to chair the important Spring Fling and Sun-Sational Soiree fundraisers.

“With the assistance of Corey’s IT knowledge and hard work, the Woodstock Rotary Club has raised

literally hundreds of thousands of dollars for our community,” said Dunlop.

Clark thanked the Rotary for the recognition, recalling how Dunlop encouraged him to join the club.

Clark said his tech knowledge helped him make Rotary fundraising adjustments during COVID, but the success resulted from the concerted effort of all Rotary members.

“There were a number of us that took that task on together and quite a few of us in the room here today, but I want to send a special thank you to Scott Dunlop, Rob McCormack and Kent Orlando.” he said. “Since 2020, we did a lot of big things together, but a big part of this is fellowship.”

The Rotary Club handed out several other awards on the evening, including Business of the Year Awards to Dunlop, owner of Home Zone Electronics, and Clark, owner of Clarkview Outdoor Solutions.

Incoming Rotary president Ashley Farrell and Orlando earned Rotarians of the Year plaques.

Hilary Stockford and Andrew Garnett earned recognition for their outstanding service to the club and the community.

Carleton MLA and Education and Early Childhood Learning Minister Bill Hogan attended the dinner, presenting certificates of appreciation from Premier Blaine Higgs and himself.

As outgoing Woodstock Rotary president, McCormack recounted the club’s success over the past year, noting it raised $427,750 in the past 12 months.

As incoming president, Farrell detailed plans for the upcoming year, noting the continuing strength of the organization and its dedicated members.

Hilary Stockford, left, and Andrew Garnett, right, accept awards from Woodstock Rotary President Rob McCormack recognizing their service to the Rotary Club and community.

Woodstock introduces expensive plan to expand policing

Proposed model could see WPF patrol town, highways, and Wotstak First Nation

By Jim

Woodstock

Police Force may soon be patrolling all wards and potentially Wotstak First Nation.

Mayor Trina Jones and WPF Chief Gary Forward introduced the plan to expand the force at the June 25 council meeting, but the mayor acknowledged that the expanded service would cost taxpayers in the outlying wards.

Jones noted that earlier this year, Justice and Public Safety Minister Kris Austin approved Woodstock’s policing expansion plan. The detailed plan covered operational and equipment requirements, personnel and costs to expand Woodstock Police Force services from Ward 4, the former town limits, to include Wards 1, 2, 3 and 5.

The mayor said the new plan submitted to the province would include covering Wotstak First Nation and all highways with the Woodstock boundaries.

She said Wards 1, 2, 3 and 5 property owners’ taxes would jump five cents per year from its current 70 cents per 100 assessment to 85 cents in 2027.

Jones admitted that while residents in Woodstock’s rural wards face a significant increase, the 80-cent rate compares favourably with other former LSDs across the province, including Carleton North. She added that it also compares favourably with communities that operate their own municipal police departments.

Even with the tax increase, Jones said the plan required substantial provincial funding to make it feasible.

She acknowledged the high costs of the expanded service, noting the annual policing budget would increase from its current $3.7 million to $8.7 million. Jones said rural taxpayers would bear the costs of the policing changes. Their property tax rates would jump 15 cents per $100 assessment over three years, from 2025 to 2027.

She said the department offered $4.2 million in transition funding.

“Although we feel there’s still a financial gap we will need to work with the minister and his team to try and close, we do feel comfortable that we arrived at a transition plan that we thought we could share with the public,” said Jones.

She said she worked with CAO Allan Walker and Finance Director Jennifer Crabbe to develop a workable and financially viable transition plan, which they shared with Minister Austin.

While the proposed plan submitted to the minister included coverage of Wotstak First Nation, Jones said they are yet to talk to the band council. Any policing plan would require agreement between the band, the town, the province, and the federal government.

She said it makes more sense for the Woodstock Police Force to cover the First Nation, noting that it

is in the middle of Woodstock’s expanded boundaries.

Jones explained that the expansion of the Woodstock Police Force’s coverage area would occur gradually over two years, starting in 2025.

She said the police force would begin 2025 covering only Ward 4 and expand to cover Ward 5, Grafton and North and Southampton, in October 2025. Pending an agreement, the expansion would include the Wotstak at the same time.

The force would add Ward 3, Jacksonville and Wakefield, in October, 2026, followed by Wards 1, 2 and the highway in January 2027.

While police coverage will expand gradually to various wards, Jones said the tax hike will begin immediately in all wards. A 15-cent tax hike would mean an extra $375 per year in tax owed on a property valued at $250,000.

Jones said the town would need to borrow $1.8

million in estimated capital costs to complete the policing expansion. Still, analyzing the town’s debtto-revenue ratio leaves it in a good financial position.

Jones also hoped that an improved fiscal framework surrounding a new municipal funding formula could alleviate some financial strain.

Chief Forward attended the council meeting to outline the proposed policing model. He and Mayor Jones explained that it closely follows the model unveiled to the public last year.

The plan outlined the requirements for allowing the force to expand its 24-7 police coverage from its current 15 sq. km and 5,500 population to 500 sq. km and 11,000 population.

The proposed model provides 24-7 coverage for 365 days a year, with each ward patrolled 24 hours per day. The proposed model would require the force to double staff levels and purchase more police cars and equipment.

Gauging how Woodstock residents feel about

At the time, Forward said the force already surpasses national standards, as will the expanded force.

In response to a question from Deputy Mayor Mark Rogers, the chief acknowledged an increased area of concern since they released the initial policing plan.

“The Woodstock Police Force’s proposal seeks to enhance public safety and operational efficiency across the broader region,” the town stated in its media release.

Mayor Jones said the town and the police force’s priority is the community’s safety and well-being.

“This regionalization proposal is a step towards ensuring that all residents, regardless of their location, receive consistent and highquality policing services,” she said.

Jones encouraged residents to get involved in the public process and said she is looking forward to the feedback.

WPF expansion

Survey now available as town gathers feedback on plan to expand police force

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Woodstock

council, staff and police force officials want to hear town residents’ opinions concerning the proposed expansion of the municipal police force to the entire community.

The town is asking residents to complete a detailed survey and attend planned public foru ms to ascertain the public’s viewpoint on the police expansion, which will include a significant tax hike for former LSD property owners.

The Woodstock Police Force currently patrols only Ward 4, Woodstock’s former town boundaries. The Western Valley RCMP presently provides policing to Wards 1, 2, 3 and 5.

“The Town of Woodstock is considering a proposal to extend its policing services to the former local service districts, now Wards 1, 2, 3 and 5, that were amalgamated due to Local Governance Reform,” the town explained in a mes-

sage directed to all residents.

The town release detailed the proposed police expansion’s impact on taxpayers in Wards 1, 2, 3, and 5. It explained that the proposal would include a 15-cent tax hike spread equally over three years, from 2025 to 2027, for property owners in the outlying wards.

Ward 4 residents would not face a policerelated tax hike over that period.

“The tax rate for out-

side Wards in 2027 would therefore be 85 cents,” the town statement explained. “That is a 15 cent increase total on the current 70 cent rate for all outside wards.”

The town explained that a five-cent increase on a house assessed at $200,000 would cost an additional $100 per year in property taxes.

Woodstock residents need to complete the survey between July 4 and 18.

They can find the sur-

vey online or pick up a paper copy at the town hall or the AYR Motor Centre.

The L.P. Fisher Public Library offers computer availability to residents without online access.

Following the survey, the town will host public forums to allow residents to ask questions and learn more details about the policing issue. The town will announce the time, date, and location of those forums at a later date.

Residents can find an information sheet outlin-

ing details about the proposed policing model at https://bit.ly/4eW8S4j

The plan calls for expanding police services to include Wards 4 and 5 by Oct. 1, 2025, then adding Ward 3 on Oct. 1, 2025, and finally completing the expansion to all five wards by Oct. 1, 2027.

Over the three-year expansion, the WPF would increase staffing levels from its current 24 officers and 10 support staff to 45 officers and 25 support staff by 2027.

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

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

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

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

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

Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Blaze destroys Newbridge home

WPF investigates, alerts fire dept after seeing glow in night sky

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Ablaze levelled an unoccupied Newbridge home overnight between Friday, July 5, and Saturday, July 6.

Woodstock Fire Chief Harold McLellan said Woodstock Police Force officers noticed the blaze’s glow in the night sky from miles away as they patrolled in Woodstock.

He said the officers investigated and notified the fire department at 1:11 a.m.

McLellan said firefighters could see the glow of the fire at 3446 Route 585 before crossing the Grafton Bridge. The building sat a couple of kilometres along Route 585 from the Grafton side of the bridge.

The chief said the first firefighters arrived at the scene to find the structure “completely involved.”

McLellan said the crew’s role at that point was to knock the flames down and ensure it didn’t spread to the woods or

neighbouring properties.

“Thankfully, it rained that day,” the chief said.

While from the road, the building appeared to be surrounded by woods, McLellan said that when the firefighters arrived at the top of the winding driveway, they discovered the structure sitting in a large clearing with a significant gap to the woods.

McLellan described the structure as an older model house trailer with built-on wooden additions. He said the fire also destroyed a combination garage and workshop and a lean-to structure to shelter horses.

McLellan said no one lived in the home, and no horses were present at the time of the blaze.

While he didn’t identify the owner or former resident of the property, McLellan said he talked to the son of the man who used to live there. The son told him his father moved out about two weeks ago.

Top: Flames rip through a residential structure in Newbridge, near Woodstock, early Saturday morning, July 6. (Photo courtesy of the WFD) Bottom: the blaze left little except burnt timber and twisted metal. (Jim Dumville photo)

McLellan said he talked to the Fire Marshal’s Office and the RCMP, but they agreed it would be difficult to determine the cause of the blaze.

McLellan said the

Her parents expect her to undergo surgery in midJuly at the Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto. Doctors plan to either remove the cancer in her liver or go through with a liver transplant.

Maxine describes not being able to care for her baby herself as one of the hardest parts of Jade’s illness.

“She’s a baby, and she’s sick, and she can’t tell us where things hurt and what’s wrong. It’s hard when she’s in pain, and you can’t help her,” said Maxine.

Being far from home has also been a struggle for the Rhymers. But they are incredibly grateful to all who are helping them. Many family, friends, and neighbours have been taking care of their pets and mowing their lawn. The Rhymers have

been in Halifax by Jade’s side since the Mother’s Day weekend scare. They expect Jade to remain in the hospital for three to six months.

Guy and Maxine’s friend Erin Seifarth has started a GoFundMe to help the Rhymers financially during this difficult time.

“I knew her parents were staying with her, and that meant work wasn’t going to be an option while they were both there. But bills tend to pile up whether you’re in a crisis or not,” said Seifarth.

The GoFundMe goal is $10,000; as of July 3, it had raised $4,025.

A benefit dance to raise more money for the Rhymers will be held on July 13 at the Woodstock Elk’s Club on Connell Street in Woodstock.

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased in advance or at the door. There will also be a 50/50 draw with a prize of a basket of liquor.

Newbridge fire added to a busy 2024 for the Woodstock Fire Department. He said his department responded to 171 calls to date this year, up 37 from last year.

Help for DRUG ADDICTION

8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Health Mobile Crisis Unit 1-888-667-0444 - 7 days a week from 2 to 10 p.m.

Inpatient Detoxification Services: access by self-referral only; all admissions are voluntary. The detoxification unit provides inpatient treatment for the withdrawal from mood-altering substances such as alcohol, cocaine, opiates and other drugs. Fredericton Detoxification Unit 506-452-5525 Located at 65 Brunswick St., Fredericton, NB. A 10-bed unit that provides medical support, education, and recovery planning for substance abuse and gambling. Phone 506-452-5525; accepts messages only, calls are returned to plan admissions Mon-Fri. Miramichi Detoxification Unit 506-623-6175 Located at 500 Water St., Miramichi. NB.

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

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

Other Residential rehabilitation facilities

Ridgewood Centre (Saint John) 506-647-4300 Located at 416 Bay St., South Bay, Saint John, NB. Campbellton Regional Addiction Services 506-789-7055 Located at 53 Gallant Dr., Campbellton, NB.

Rising Sun Treatment Centre (First Nations) 506-627-4626 Located at 31 Riverview Rd., Eel Ground, NB. Portage Atlantic 1-888-735-9800 Located at Cassidy Lake, NB, is a non-profit organization established in 1995, operates a residential drug addiction rehabilitation centre for Atlantic Canada youth (14-21) in New Brunswick.

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

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

Vail’s Bottle Exchange, 522 Mian Street, Woodstock, is taking cash donations. Guy and Maxine also accept money through e-transfer at maxinerhymer@outlook.com.

The grateful Rhymer family get emotional when witnessing the generous support they receive from so many people.

“It means a lot. It means we won’t have to worry about expenses while we’re here,” said Maxine.

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

*IN AN EMERGENCY, CALL 911

Even when sick, Jade still manages to be her happy self. (Submitted)

Three-way agreement targets Deakin Drive housing development

Town, Carleton Manor, N.B. Housing Hub to turn 23 acres into neighbourhood

By Jim Dumville

Athree-way partnership involving the town of Woodstock, Carleton Manor Nursing Home, and the New Brunswick Housing Hub could soon deliver a needed housing development.

Mayor Trina Jones and Woodstock Planning and Development Director Andrew Garnett announced the agreement during the regular council meeting on June 25.

Jones said she was “thrilled” to make the announcement, which offers excellent potential to quickly address the town’s housing shortage, including the availability of affordable housing.

She and Garnett explained that the town had signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Carleton Manor and a letter of engagement with the Housing Hub regarding the potential development of a 23acre parcel of land owned by the manor.

Jones explained the land sits directly across Deakin Drive from Carleton Manor’s 110-bed nursing home.

Garnett explained the agreement with the Housing Hub will take the lead in a joint land-development master plan initiative.

During the June 25 announcement and in a press release issued on June 26, town officials explained the final plan will include a housing needs assessment, an analysis of the land’s suitability for development, a fully built-out site plan, including recommendations for density, building type and massing, and a financial feasibility study that will include identifying suitable funding programs to ensure affordability.

Jones explained that the town would invest $15,000 to $25,000 to develop the plan, which she estimated would take six to nine months. She added that neither the town nor the Manor committed to any further investment until the plan was fully developed.

“The goal is to produce a plan that will provide solutions and options that will allow for engagement with both non-profit and for-profit developers to help action the plan,” the town stated in its release. In response to Deputy Mayor Mark Rogers’s question, Garnett said it is feasible for construction to begin as early as next year.

The Carleton Manor board agreed to purchase the 23-acre land parcel in

2017 due to the growing housing crisis, including the lack of housing options for Manor employees.

“In the past two or three years, the percentage of our staff that are newcomers has increased steadily from 18 per cent years ago to now over 50 per cent,” said Carleton Manor Administrative Director Scott Green,

“The board has been willing to listen to the challenges our workers are facing to be able to afford to work and live in our community. We have the land, but we do not necessarily have the expertise to be developers, nor the desire or capability to be in the housing business.”

He explained conversations between the town and board resulted in a solution they all agreed represented a good first step.

Garnett said the concept began during a meeting he and Mayor Jones had with Housing Hub officials about its service to municipalities.

“Instantly, the Carleton Manor land on Deakin Dr. came to mind as an ideal project that fit the services the Housing Hub could offer and that could potentially move forward development of their land

for much needed housing,” he said. “I am looking forward to working with the Housing Hub and the Carleton Manor on this master plan.”

During his presentation to council, Garnett explained the Housing Hub has direct access to experts and service providers who can quickly develop a plan to maximize the development of efficient housing plans to meet the needs of Woodstock and its residents.

Housing Hub CEO Nadine Fullarton explained its role in similar projects around the province.

“The Housing Hub’s mission is to engage with partners, such as municipalities in a coordinated approach to leverage every available resource,

funding or otherwise to deliver housing that is affordable but that also fits with building strong and sustainable communities,” she said.

Jones said the proposal provides a vital opportunity to maximize the potential of one of the few remaining parcels of land in the community’s core.

“I am thrilled that the Carleton Manor board has agreed to sign an MOU with us so that we can use the services of the Housing Hub as a cost effective, and expedited way to produce a proper development plan that will provide solutions for housing and beyond,” she said.

“We have a need in our community for all types of housing, in particular affordable housing, which

will be a core focus of this development plan.”

In response to a question from Coun. Will Belyea, Garnett said the Housing Hub plan will dictate how developers and land ownership will proceed.

Jones expects the development plan would include several styles of homes, including multiunit apartment buildings, single-family dwellings, row houses and more. She again emphasized “affordability” as a driving force.

In its release, the town hopes to see good community participation during the project’s public engagement phase, including participation in surveys and public feedback.

Lack of local physicians could force expectant mothers to other hospitals Horizon announces temporary changes to labour and birth services at URVH

RIVER VALLEY SUN

The Upper River Valley Hospital in Waterville will not offer labour and birth services on numerous occasions over the next four months. Horizon Health released a schedule on July 2, showing several stretches throughout July, August, September and early October, forcing expectant Upper Valley mothers to deliver their babies at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital in Fredericton.

“Labour and birth services will be temporarily unavailable at Horizon’s Upper River Valley Hospital (URVH) on some dates in July, August, and September,” Horizon stated in a media release.

Details are posted on the temporary closures page of Horizon’s website, HorizonNB.ca.

The Horizon site lists the dates when labour and birth services will be temporarily unavailable at URVH. The health network explained that all

pregnant individuals who would typically deliver their babies at URVH must travel to the DECH in Fredericton.

— Friday, July 5, 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. (1/2 day)

— Monday, July 22, at 6

a.m. to Friday, July 26 at 8 a.m. (4 days)

— Friday, August 2, at 8

a.m. to Friday, August 9 at 8 a.m. (1 week)

— Friday, August 16, at 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (1/2 day)

— Monday, August 19, at 6 a.m. to Friday, August 23, at 8 a.m. (4 days)

— Friday, August 30, at 8

a.m. to Friday, Sept. 6, at 8 a.m. (1 week)

— Friday, Sept. 13, at 8

a.m. to 6 p.m. (1/2 day)

— Monday, Sept. 16, at 6

a.m. to Monday, Sept. 23, at 8 a.m. (7 days)

— Friday, Sept. 27, at 8

a.m. to 6 p.m. (1/2 day)

— Tuesday, Oct. 1, at 6

a.m. to Friday, October 4 at 8 a.m. (3 days)

Horizon explained the lack of physician coverage to provide emergency caesarian sections

(C-sections) forced the changes.

Horizon’s President and CEO Margaret Melanson said she understands the inconvenience to families expecting new arrivals this summer.

“We know that being able to deliver close to home in a safe environment, and with familiar providers, is highly valued in the community, and we are committed to providing sustained labour and birth services at URVH as soon as possible,” said Melanson.

Horizon officials said that even apparent lowrisk deliveries should not proceed with an available doctor ready to provide an emergency C-section, noting pregnancy-related issues and emergency situations can quickly arise during childbirth.

URVH nursing staff have contacted all pregnant women of 35 weeks and over.

“We are committed to ensuring all pregnant

New Brunswickers have access to safe and quality care,” said Dr. Martha Mills, Chief of Staff, Fredericton and Upper River Valley area. “We are working to ensure that labour and birth services will be fully restored as quickly as possible.”

The Horizon release said the network will continue to work proactively with care providers to ensure appropriate coverage when temporary changes to service arise. Horizon officials said they understand these chang-

es may be concerning to expecting families.

“Please be assured that all pregnant individuals and their babies will receive safe and quality care at any Horizon facility,” Horizon stated in its release.

The release stressed that Horizon continues to prioritize recruitment efforts to mitigate these temporary changes and will continue to provide updates as soon as they become available.

“Horizon recognizes the value

birth services at the URVH for staff, physicians, patients, families, and the community, and recently conducted a community engagement process to inform future planning and decision making,” the release stated.

Report results can be found online at Let’s Talk Horizon.

The obstetrical service at URVH serves up to 500 patients a year and supported 206 births and 40 emergency Csections in 2023.

of labour and

– Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

The town of Woodstock, Carleton Manor and the N.B. Housing Hub will work together to develop a 23-acre parcel of land across Deakin Drive from the manor. (Jim Dumville photo)

Hartland Council News

Discussions centre on JDI windmill project, rejected

By Doug Dickinson

South Knowlesville resident is asking for more public engagement on Irving wind farm project

Jean Arnold of the Knowlesville Art and Nature Centre made a presentation to the Hartland council during a committee of the whole meeting on Tuesday, June 25. Arnold, who lives on the hill adjacent to where the project will be completed, shared her concerns with the council and asked them to arrange a public meeting.

Arnold told the council she first heard of the potential for an industrial wind farm in May after reading a news article.

Arnold expressed frustration with not receiving a courtesy call from JDI despite living next to the site. Arnold said she contacted then-Minister of Natural Resources and Energy

Mike Holland, CarletonVictoria MLA Margaret Johnson, and Minister of Agriculture, Aquaculture, and Fisheries Margaret Johnson.

She said the ministers told her they didn’t know about the project, but an environmental impact assessment would need to be done.

In an email to River Valley Sun, Johnson said the development would take time and that she expects JDI to complete the required public consultation.

“I have spoken to the company and they have told me that they plan to visit residents to discuss

the project,” said Johnson. Arnold said that in doing her own research, she found that Hatch Consulting had partially completed an environmental impact assessment. She found two binders detailing the assessment at the Andrew & Laura McCain Library in Florenceville-Bristol.

Arnold added that JDI representatives dropped off fliers about the project. Still, she wants the company to conduct a public consultation so residents can ask questions and “have their fears and anxieties” addressed. Arnold said she also wanted the Dr. Walter Chestnut Library in Hartland to be treated fairly and have the assessment available to the public there.

Going over her concerns with wind farms, Arnold noted the potential for water pollution due to drilling for the windmills, noise from the windmills, and shadow flicking from the blades blocking the sun as they turn.

Deputy Mayor Stewart Fairgrieve said he has a seasonal dwelling close to the property, and a JDI representative stopped by with a brochure.

When Arnold asked Fairgrieve what questions he had, Fairgrieve said concerns he raised with the representative included noise, location, getting the windmills onto the property, and whether there is an agreement with NB Power. He said all of these questions were answered to his satisfaction.

Councillor Mike Wal-

ton, who also serves as the town’s fire chief, said JDI gave local fire departments a presentation.

Anne McInerney is vice president of communications for JDI. McInerney said an Environmental Impact Assessment was filed with the province and announced in a news release on April 22. That release can be found on the JDI website. She said the assessment process is ongoing.

She added that First Nations were first notified of a potential wind farm project in August 2023, followed by written communication in March 2024. JDI later received a letter from the Department of Indigenous Affairs informing them that the project had yet to trigger the Crown’s Duty to Consult.

McInerney confirmed that JDI representatives went door-to-door to inform the public of the project, visiting approximately 250 addresses near the site.

The company also conducted Q&A sessions and presentations at Annual General Meetings for Quad NB and Snowmobile Motoniege NB. On May 22, a meeting was held for the Western Valley Regional Service Commission.

McInerney said the public is welcome to ask questions, and anyone looking for information can contact info@jdirving. com or visit brightonwind. com.

Hartland Chief Administrative Officer Rob

policing plan, waterfront park

Webber said he wanted to point out there isn’t an energy source on earth that doesn’t have downsides to go along with upsides.

“As long as people want to turn on their lights, leave their homes and drive vehicles, we are going to have to make hard choices about which ones we pick,” said Webber.

Coun. Jason Smith shared his concern about the long-term environmental impact of the wind farm.

“When you remove 90,000 hectares of forest ground that is in the watershed it dries up the small lakes and streams and causes a lack of biodiversity that we need within our environment,” said Smith. “This is a huge impact.”

In asking the town to host a public meeting, Arnold said she would like to see representatives from NB Power, the Department of Natural Resources and Energy, the Skedaddle Ridge ATV Club, the Atlantic Salmon Federation, local First Nations leaders, and maple syrup producers.

Webber told the River Valley Sun that the town might consider a general review of wind farms with other Atlantic Canada towns or possibly nearby Mars Hill, Maine, which has experience with windmills.

Council optimistic after discussing rejected police force proposal with minister Hartland Mayor Tracey DeMerchant detailed a meeting with Minister of Justice and Public Safety Kris Austin to discuss the town’s rejected proposal for a community police force.

The mayor called it a positive meeting, noting Austin indicated “the proposal that was put forward was very well done.”

“[The province] said until they did their work they really couldn’t give us the stamp of approval to move forward. It was re-

ally positive. We went in feeling that same positive energy and left feeling the same way.”

Coun. Walton also attended the meeting, and he said Austin indicated it could be 2025 into 2026 before a decision is made.

“It wasn’t that they were turning anybody down, but they had to do their homework first on their behalf,” said Walton.

Webber told the River Valley Sun the town was told it had a strong proposal, but the province is currently working on its contract with the RCMP.

“At this time the province is not in a position to authorize us to move forward,” he said.

“There are things they are still working out with the RCMP, for example how they are funding specialized services through the province. I think they are looking at a new model… because there are these outstanding issues with the RCMP.”

Town puts hold on naming waterfront park

Webber asked the council for thoughts on naming the waterfront pavilion park and holding a ceremony coinciding with the town’s Saturday market.

The CAO said funding for the waterfront park will likely not happen until 2025 due to various factors, including getting approval from NB Power. These include deciding on raising public donations and tying the park’s name to a donation.

He said that with the

growing Saturday market, the town could schedule an opening with a concert later in the summer or during the annual bridge festival.

Coun. Lee Patterson said he believed it’s too early to name the park, when it’s not yet known what the park’s purpose will be.

“Yesterday, the gazebo was being used for the market, which is wonderful, but will the park have a playground? Will the park have a garden? Will the park have games? Will it have seating?

He expressed reluctance to move ahead until a design is in place and suggested waiting until matters are settled with NB Power over the use of the property.

Patterson suggested referring to the park as “the downtown park” until it is time to be named.

John Nigro, Hartland’s Director of Facilities and Operations, said he would like a name or address to make sure area residents understand. He said the civic address is 333 Main Street. Nigro agreed there should be a concrete plan. For now, Patterson wasn’t opposed to having a sign with the civic address. Hartland’s Communications and Development Specialist, Michelle Derrah, said that with logo guidelines completed, the next step is welcome and wayfinding signs.

“There’s no reason there couldn’t be a blue civic number and 333 [on the signage],” said Derrah.

Woodstock CAO outlines efforts to salvage Grafton well

Council approves $16,000 study into contamination, development and protection

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Woodstock council approved further efforts to salvage the $4.5 million Grafton well site and potentially determine a different secondary water source for the town.

During the June 25 regular council meeting, CAO Allan Walker updated the council on the town’s efforts surrounding the contaminated water source in Grafton. He requested and gained council approval to pay Gemtec, a consulting engineer and scientific firm already working with the town on water source projects, $16,000 as the first part of a three-phase study.

Walker explained that town consultant Boissonault McGraw recommended the town work directly with Gemtec. He said the study’s first phase will attempt to determine the source and pathway of the chloride present in the water at the Grafton site.

“We’re trying to determine where it’s coming from, how it’s getting there, and also the cost and feasibility to mediate that,” Walker explained.

He explained the first phase would take approximately seven weeks.

Walker also sought approval from the council to engage Gemtec to study and possibly develop a wellfield protection plan should the Grafton well site be usable as a

Woodstock water source.

He said the scope and cost of future phases will depend on the outcome of phase one.

Mayor Trina Jones said determining the cause of the Grafton well contamination is “super critical” in determining a solution if one is available.

“We really want to exhaust all avenues to see if we can salvage this well,” she said.

Jones explained the three-part proposal before council at the June 25 meeting begins with approval of the $16,000 expenditure.

She also asked the council to permit town staff to ask Gemtec to develop the wellfield protection plan and begin studies surrounding a potential water source at an identified site in the Eastwood Heights area.

“Yes, that means spending a bit more money, but we have $4.5 million in it and it can’t be used at the moment, so we’ve got to exhaust all options,” Jones told the council. “I think we’ve been very careful and cautious taking one approach at a time, and they’ve been very fair and reasonable so far, as what they’ve given us for cost.”

Council unanimously approved the CAO’s request.

“I feel it’s important to move on with this, consid-

Woodstock Police investigate trailer theft

Houlton Street business hit

described the trailers as follows:

The Woodstock Police Force is asking for the public’s help as it investigates the recent theft of utility trailers.

In a media release, the Woodstock police said officers responded on July 4 to the report of two utility trailers stolen from a Houlton Street business.

Police believe someone stole the trailers sometime in the past couple of weeks. They

ering the amount we’ve invested so far, to see what steps are needed to salvage those costs,” said Coun. Norm Brown.

The CAO report updated the council on the latest steps of a 10-year effort to secure a dependable Woodstock water source and available backup source.

The town’s efforts regarding Woodstock water supply are ongoing on several fronts. Currently, Boissonault McGraw and Gemtec are drilling test wells to secure the town’s only active water supply from River Wells # 1 and 2 on the island in the St. John River in lower Woodstock.

The firms are drilling Well # 3 to provide backup, using the same water source as the current wells.

Trailer #1: Make: N&N Trailers, Model: S72168G

Trailer #2: Make: N&N Trailers, Model: Car Hauler

The Woodstock Police Force asks anyone with information regarding the theft of these utility trailers to contact them at 506-3254601, Crime Stoppers at 1-866-222-TIPS, or Crime Stoppers online at www.crimenb.ca.

In recent years, the

The search for a backup water source began in 2014 after an ice jam blocked access to the well and knocked out electricity to the well house. If they prove functional, the new wells on the island would connect to the current wells and pass through the existing water treatment.

town has taken additional steps to protect the River Wells, including constructing a rock wall and installing a generator set nine feet above the surface to prevent floods and ice jams.

GAMES

Woodstock CAO Allan Walker and Mayor Trina Jones updated council at the June 25 regular council meeting about town water sources, including efforts to salvage the Grafton well. (File photo)

RIVER VALLEY SUN

Woodstock PAC approves development despite neighbours’ pushback Project opponents express frustration after committee’s closed-door debates

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Residents of a deadend Woodstock street question the process leading to the approval to construct a pair of multi-unit residential buildings in their neighbourhood.

Woodstock’s Planning Advisory Committee (PAC) asked opponents of the residential projects on Helen Street to leave the room as committee members debated the issue at a noon-hour PAC meeting on June 17 at Sam’s Room in the AYR Motor Centre.

The PAC allowed the residents to return to see the PAC vote to approve the variances required to enable the projects to proceed.

Woodstock MLA and Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Bill Hogan and his wife Heather, whose house is across the street from one of the proposed structures, attended the June 17 meeting with about a dozen Helen Street residents.

“I’m very disappointed in the process,” said Bill Hogan, who is familiar with the PAC process as a former member of the Woodstock council. He and several Helen Street residents noted the unusual step the council took at a May 14 regular council meeting: unanimously moving a motion declaring it did not object to PAC approving the variances.

Hogan explained that it did not direct PAC decisions during his time on council.

For many Helen Street residents, the fact that one of the owners of the

Keenan Martin development firm proposing the two townhouse projects is Woodstock Councillor Mike Martin further taints the process.

Helen Street resident Jamie Wishart, one of several residents attending the two PAC meetings dealing with the projects, raised the issue following the May 28 regular council meeting he attended.

“I feel as though they did it with purpose. It’s deceiving and they’re all friends with their councillor friend who is set to make money personally and is set to make money for the town,” Wishart told the River Valley Sun at that time.

Coun. Martin recused himself from the May 14 council meeting during the debate on the PAC issue. His company already owns two 12-unit apartment buildings on Helen Street. The developer plans to construct one three-unit and one four-unit townhouse on the subdivided property where the apartment buildings sit.

Most of the residents opposing the townhouses noted they had no problem with the development firm, noting they take good care of their existing properties on Helen Street. They don’t believe the proposed projects fit into the limited available space.

Frustrations mounted at the June 17 PAC meeting when Woodstock Planning and Development Director Andrew Garnett and PAC Chair Peter Kavanaugh denied

the residents an opportunity to address the committee.

Garnett unsuccessfully tried to shut down comments and questions from the gallery, noting the public’s opportunity to speak took place at the PAC-hosted public forum on May 21.

While CAO Allan Walker filled in for Garnett, who was away attending a family death, at the May 21 public forum, Garnett attempted to address the residents’ questions at the June 17 meeting.

As he explained during his presentation to the council before its vote not to object to requested variances, Garnett provided background to the proposed Helen Street development.

Garnett explained under the new Municipal Plan that the properties in question are zoned R1, allowing one- and two-unit residences. He added that the plan also adds conditional use of R1 property for townhouses with up to six units.

Garnett said PAC could allow conditional use, noting the street is already home to two 12-unit apartment buildings and another four-unit townhouse complex, Garnett also dismissed opponents’ concerns suggesting row houses must face the street, noting that requirement is no longer relevant under the updated Municipal Plan. He cited townhouse units on Jones Street as an example.

Garnett explained that PAC’s decision involved

approving variances, which allowed the developer to reduce the front and back setbacks permitted under the municipal plan.

The PAC decision allowed the developer to reduce the front setback from 6 to 5.1 metres on the front of both buildings. It also grants variances, allowing the developer to reduce the back setback from 6 to 5.1 metres for the proposed structure at 108 Helen and from 6 to 3.5 metres at 115 Helen.

Helen Street resident Bob Stokes, who attended both PAC meetings in hopes of gaining clarification on several issues, cited the significantly reduced backyard setbacks as an intrusion on neighbour property owners.

During the May 21 public forum, he asked, “Are the proposed variances using the land safely and efficiently?”

As he offered River Valley Sun a tour of the proposed building sites on June 21, Stokes pointed to the proximity between the existing single-family home and the back of the proposed four-unit townhouse at 115 Helen Street.

He explained that the proposed building, of which no design has been shared yet, will sit a little over 10 feet away from its neighbour’s house. Stokes added that the proposed three-unit building at 108 Helen Street will border the Townsview School K-to-Grade 8 playground.

Stokes noted that the town hand-distributed notices of the public meeting, but no one answered

PAC approved the variances required for developers to build a three-unit townhouse structure on the green area next to the 12-unit apartment they own at the end of Helen Street. (Jim Dumville photo)

whether Anglophone West School District or Townsview officials received the same notice.

Stokes raised these questions, among many others, at the public hearing. Garnett answered some at the June 17 meeting but not all. PAC and Garnett refused to answer follow-up questions at the second PAC meeting.

Stokes, Wishart, and several other residents raised safety concerns on Helen Street, which is already heavily travelled during school days. Parents drop children at the end of the dead-end street at the back of the school.

Wishart said the heavy morning traffic puts children and all residents at a safety risk. “You’re packing too many people into one small area,” Wishart said Stokes said the need to reduce setbacks significantly confirms Wishart’s comment.

Stokes asked at the public meeting, “Does construction identify a border between adjacent properties so as not to impact the quality of life for adjacent property own-

ers?”

All opponents criticized the town and PAC for their lack of transparency during the process. In addition to banning them from the PAC debate, Stokes and others complained about the lack of clarity from town officials about the process and bylaws.

Stokes cited difficulties finding details about the bylaws, Municipal Plan and PAC regulations on the town website.

When asked to leave the room during PAC’s deliberations about the variances, Heather Hogan questioned committee members’ motives.

“If you have to do it in secret, that is a problem,” she said

The PAC consists of Chair Peter Kavanaugh, Vice Chair Marlene Hassard, Garth McCrea, John Slipp, John Morrison, Kurt Young, Sarah Leech, and either Councillors Jeff Bradbury or Will Belyea as council representatives. Bradbury took part in the Helen Street vote.

PAC approved the variance, with PAC members Hassard and Leech opposing it.

Nackawic-Millville Council news Council approves Big Axe Beer Festival, seeks solution for Millville sidewalk repairs

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Annual Big Axe Craft Beer Festival set to go

The Nackawic-Millville council gave final approval at the June 17 council meeting to allow the sixth annual Big Axe Craft Beer Festival to proceed on the town waterfront on July 12 and 13.

Approval was a mere formality, as the festival has proven to be a significant draw for the town over the past five years.

The event features over 40 craft beer, wine and spirit manufacturers across the Maritimes and beyond.

The festival kicks off Friday, July 12, with an evening of music with the band Certified as the featured performer. Denver Monteith will open the show at 5 p.m., followed by Certified between 7 and 8 p.m.

The event attracts a sellout crowd yearly, with chartered buses carrying beer festival fans from Saint John, Fredericton and other points across New Brunswick.

Millville sidewalk repair remains under review

Nackawic-Millville council wants a clearer view of the workload and costs before it approves repairs on an 830-metre stretch of sidewalk along Main Street in Millville.

The council reviewed a report from Public Works and Utilities Director Mike Faubert at the July 2 council meeting.

Faubert said the sidewalks and a 30-metre retaining wall are beyond repair and require replacement.

“I’m suggesting tearing out the existing walkways and retaining wall and have them replaced,” he wrote in his report.

While the report included quotes from three construction firms, several council members noted each quote referred to differing levels of work.

Mira Construction’s quote of $539,895 included curbs in addition to the sidewalk. Cleghorn

Custom Concrete offered a price of $183,144 but didn’t include curbs. Cook Construction submitted a quote of $350 per square metre.

Coun. Colin Trail said council needs to decide the scope of the work, whether it repairs the existing sidewalks or removes and replaces them with concrete or asphalt.

Following the discussion, the council agreed that the sidewalks needed to be replaced.

“I don’t think we should let the sidewalks go,” said Coun. Robert Simpson.

Mayor Tim Fox agreed but noted that any commitment remains conditional upon finding the needed capital funding.

CAO Kathryn Clark told the council that a portion of the required funding may come from the sale of Millville’s youth centre. She explained that the centre is a good building on a quality piece of property and should sell reasonably easy.

The council agreed to table Faubert’s report until they decide on the scope of the work so that every bidder can offer prices on the same project specs.

The Sixth Annual Big Axe Craft Beer Festival will take place in Nackawic on July 12 and 13. (Jim Dumville photo)

TAKONUTOMAKONUWAL

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

National Indigenous Tourism to cut funding for provincial groups

Officials worry coming layoffs and program

cuts will stall tourism growth

By Matteo Cimellaro – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Canada’s National Observer

The president of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) says his organization is facing major cuts that risk setting the industry back a decade.

This week, at the peak of tourism season, Keith Henry informed staff at ITAC that around half the organization’s staff will be laid off in November. He also said smaller provincial organizations will stop receiving funding from ITAC at the beginning of September, leaving their futures in peril.

“It’s a major devastating impact. There’s a lot of people in the tourism sector that have always viewed Indigenous tourism as unstable,” Henry said. “And so the reputational damage of these impacts are significant for many of the major tourism buyers and sellers.”

Henry points to a lack of investment from both the federal government and larger tourism industry for the cuts. In Budget 2024, Ottawa invested $2.5 million for ITAC, less than 10 per cent of the requested $33 million for operations, marketing and development as part of their 2030 strategy to make Canada a world leader in Indigenous tourism.

The $2.5 million investment for 20242025 will enable ITAC to continue growing the Indigenous tourism industry and to develop and implement the ability to generate its own revenue, a statement from Indigenous Services Canada to Canada’s

National Observer said.

Ottawa also invested $10 million over two years in ITAC, starting last year to deliver grants to micro- and small businesses. They also received $3.6 million as part of the Tourism Relief fund to support businesses after the pandemic, a statement from Innovation, Science and Development to Canada’s National Observer said.

Budget 2022 also granted ITAC $4.8 million in funding over two years.

The Government of Canada is dedicated to working with key partners like ITAC to support the growth of the Indigenous tourism industry through Indigenous-led processes.

There are now questions about the survival of organizations that serve smaller markets — like Saskatchewan, New Brunswick and Manitoba — and receive ITAC funding.

Holly Courchene, CEO of Indigenous Tourism Manitoba, told Canada’s National Observer that news of cuts has left everybody scrambling.

“I was completely blindsided,” she said.

Now, Courchene doesn’t know if her organization will be able to deliver on all of its initiatives, nevermind keep all of her small staff employed.

Demand growing for Indigenous tourism

The cuts come while demand continues to increase. One in three international visitors expressed interest in

Indigenous tourism, according to a 2021 survey by Destination Canada. A recent access-to-information request by Canada’s National Observer also found that the agency is expecting strong growth in Indigenous tourism over the coming decade.

Those internal documents from Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada reveal that Ottawa has championed Indigenous tourism as a “powerful tool” in Canada’s reconciliation efforts.

“[Indigenous tourism] provides economic opportunities for Indigenous Peoples and enables them to uphold their inherent rights while sharing their cultures, histories and stories in an authentic, respectful manner with Canadians and international visitors,” the document said.

On the ground at Indigenous Tourism Manitoba, Courchene is not hearing that message.

“It always feels like an uphill battle. We’re hearing news releases about reconciliation and investments and reconciliation, but we’re not seeing that here at the Indigenous Tourism Manitoba level.”

Couchene also worries that if ITAC collapses, its Indigenous authenticity program, the Original Original would be lost with it. The program is designed to ensure that false identity claims that have rocked academia and the arts don’t arise in the tourism sector.

ITAC says the organization will maintain its Original Original program with reduced staff, however, its development and marketing initiatives will face the greatest reductions. Still, Henry worries about the existential threat ITAC faces. The organization is the fourth iteration of a national Indigenous tourism association, and now Henry is concerned about reputational damage to the sector because of the cuts.

“What’s lost is literally hundreds of millions of dollars for Indigenous tourism businesses in the country,” Henry said. Indigenous tour operators will survive without ITAC, Henry said, but he believes international awareness and national advocacy will be minimized or eliminated with a constrained ITAC.

A spokesperson for Innovation, Science and Development told Canada’s National Ob -

server that ITAC is one of the “key partners” for supporting Indigenous tourism.

“As a national industry association, ITAC represents the needs and perspectives of Indigenous tourism businesses across Canada,” the statement added.

“ITAC plays a key role in promoting Indigenous tourism experiences, raising awareness about Indigenous cultures, traditions, and history.”

Wabanaki Tree Spirit Tours with a Land Based Learning event in Fredericton in 2021. Tourism programs like this are at risk without consistent funding. (Submitted photo)

Drums and dragon boats on the river Woodstock hosts first dragon boat races with great success

By Connor Barry

The beat of the drums.

The Cheers of the crowd. The rhythmic sound as the oars struck the water.

Those sounds filled the air during Woodstock’s inaugural Dragon Boat races during July 1st Floats events on Canada Day.

Dragon boat racing originated in southern China over 2,000 years ago, and the craft “is approximately 40 feet… generally hold 20 paddlers, a drummer and a steersperson,” said lead organizer Lisa Porter, who is also President of the Woodstock Paddling Club.

In dragon boat racing, instead of prioritizing Individual strength, the focus is on teammates maintaining synchronization to propel the boat as fast as possible.

The boat is led by the drummer, who signals to the rowers when to paddle through their drum beats.

“I first got involved [with Dragon Boat] at my old high school in Toronto.

We had a very large team there — six boats or about 120 students,” said Porter. When Porter returned to Woodstock and saw that the waterfront was seldom used, she began brainstorming ways to get more people out on the water.

“Then I thought of Dragon Boat, “ she explained.

With this idea in mind, Porter began to plan and organize quickly.

Before long, the Woodstock Rotary Club and the town council began supporting Dragon Boat.

The Woodstock Rotary provided the funds necessary to purchase the boats, and the council allowed them to be set up at the docks and provided security gates to protect them.

This support, combined with the drive shown by Porter and her board of directors, proved successful.

Ten teams were formed from local community groups, including the Woodstock Rotary Club, the town of Woodstock,

and Woodstock High School.

Area corporations, including McCain Foods, entered boats in races.

All teams paid a small fee to participate, which went to hiring 22 Dragons, a Montreal-based organization that assisted with organizing, coaching, and officiating.

Crowds gathered on both sides of the river and on top of a nearby bridge to watch the races in numbers not seen downtown since the total solar eclipse earlier this year.

“The races were exhilarating!” said Sarah MacPherson, who participated in them.

MacPherson later said that everyone on her team had a fun time.

“I think our Canada Day regatta was hugely significant,” said Porter when asked how important she believed the day’s events were to growing dragon boating in Woodstock.

“We feel very embraced and supported by the community,” she continued.

The organizers an-

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nounced the top three teams when the day’s events had concluded.

Third was In Deep Ship, the Woodstock Community Clubs Team.

In second was the team representing Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Lastly, This is How We Row, a team from Woodstock High School, took first place.

With Monday’s races’ resounding success, it is all but certain that this will not be the last time drums are heard on the Meduxnekeag.

The Woodstock High School team “This is How We Row’ had the best time overall in the first annual dragon boat races in Woodstock on Canada Day. (Connor Barry photo)

The only all-female team REO Speed Dragons (left) take on Ships N’ Giggles. The REO Speed Dragons came in last place but the team still had a lot of fun. (C. Barry photo)

Violet Prosser (left) and Kerry Albright do their best to steer their handmade boat during the D.I.Y boat race. (Connor Barry photo)

Friends Isaac MacPherson and Caden Sincennes competed in the canoe races. For more pictures from Canada Day events in Woodstock, visit rivervalleysun. ca. (Connor Barry photo)

Woodstock Council news

Housing developments, tennis court refurbishment, and new

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Housing news

Woodstock’s effort to address the nationwide housing shortage took several significant steps in recent weeks.

In addition to a recently announced agreement between the town, Carleton Manor Nursing Home and the New Brunswick Housing Hub to pursue a residential development on Deakin Drive, the town also issued major announcements on a pair of high-profile projects.

During a Committee in Council meeting on June 11, Woodstock Director of Planning and Development Andrew Garnett outlined details about the development of the former Woodstock Baptist Church property in downtown Woodstock.

Garnett explained the town is working to complete a purchase and sales agreement with Daniel Slipp, the only developer to respond to the town’s request for expressions of interest regarding the property.

Garnett said Slipp is proposing to build five townhouse-style buildings on vacant land directly across Main Street from the Woodstock courthouse, providing 20 new dwelling units.

He said phase one of the project would begin constructing two buildings by October and complete three more buildings by October 2025.

CAO Walker confirmed at the June 25 council meeting that the purchase agreement is nearly complete.

At the same meeting, Walker reported good news on plans to convert the former Woodstock Middle School into a residential space.

He said Miramichibased developer Jesse Tucker completed the purchase of the school and surrounding property on June 21. The developer would begin immediately erecting a perimeter fence to secure the building.

Walker said Tucker has a solid track record on previous projects, noting that his previous developments included community gardens and social housing.

“He’s well known in the Miramichi area and does good work, so we’re looking forward to that,” said Walker.

The CAO added that the town is making headway in pursuing a new town hall. He noted that town officials met with three developers who re-

sponded to Woodstock’s request for proposals. He said they would study the proposals and hold followup meetings.

The town is seeking a proposal that would see a developer build a commercial and possibly residential structure. The town would agree to a long-term lease to house Woodstock town hall in part of the building.

Funding increase approved for McKinley Tennis Courts

Council approved a spending increase to upgrade Woodstock’s McKinley Tennis Courts during its June 25 council meeting.

CAO Allan Walker explained the proposed upgrade previously targeted $75,000 towards the project, with an expectant additional $8,000 spent internally through public works. He noted that the plan called for the painting of lines for tennis and pickleball use on all four courts.

The CAO asked the council to approve a modification of the plan to paint pickleball lines on one court, with the other three used strictly for tennis. He explained that a single court provides room for four pickleball courts.

planner

Woodstock Mayor Trina Jones explained the change would allow Woodstock to host tennis competitions.

“Additional lines on the tennis court mean they can’t be used for competitions,” she said.

The CAO explained the new configuration allowed for four pickleball matches and three tennis matches to be played simultaneously.

Walker added the new plan also includes the installation of netted curtains between the courts.

Council approved an additional $6,000, bringing the estimated budget for the upgrade to $81,000.

Walker said the proj-

ect’s scope included milling the surface, repaving it, and installing new posts. He said the work would begin as soon as possible.

Town hires new planner

CAO Walker announced at the June 25 council meeting that the town has hired a new development planner.

He confirmed he reached an agreement with Jamie Burke of Stantec to serve as the town’s new planning officer.

The town has operated without a planner since the CAO ended the contract with Jennifer Brown of Dillon Consulting earlier this year.

Walker said Burke visited the town office on June

21 to get up to speed on town planning issues. Councillor receives peace officer medal Woodstock Coun. Norm Brown, a member of the Sheriff’s Office at the Woodstock Courthouse, was recently honoured by New Brunswick Lt.-Gov Brenda Murphy.

At the June 11 regular council meeting, Mayor Jones recognized Brown, who missed the previous meeting, as he attended a service where the lieutenant governor presented him with a Peace Officer Exemplary Service Medal.

“From all of your fellow councillors and I, congratulations and well deserved!,” she said.

Couple wins $10,000 in Perth-Andover Rotary draw

Annual fundraiser brought in $13,000

RIVER VALLEY SUN

The lucky winners of $10,000 in the 2024 Rotary Club of Perth-Andover cash draw are Jeannette and Rick Watson of Forest Glen.

“Rotarians congratulate Jeannette and Rick Watson for their win. The Watsons are long-time supporters of the club. Their support, and the assistance of everyone in the community, enable the club to continue our record

of community service,” said Louiselle St. Amand, club president.

Rotarians gave away $16,000 in prizes during the annual cash draw.

Other winners included Murray Grant, $1,000 early bird winner; Gus Briggs, $1,000 early bird winner; Trish VanGogh, $1,000 early bird winner; Mary Anne Ayoob, $100; Susan Shumate, $100; Hazel, Melanie, and DeNelda Moore; $100: Barb Boone, $100; Dennis and Donna

Ruff, $100; Brad Kennedy, $250: Arnold and Jan Brooks, $500; Dawn Bishop, $750; and Barb and Ross Rideout, $1,000.

All 500 tickets for the event were purchased, and Rotarians raised more than $13,000 to be used for community service projects.

St. Amand said club members depend on the cash draw and other fundraisers to help support the community, including local schools, Making a

for community service projects

Difference Food Bank and community needs.

“This year the Rotary Club is focused on ongoing improvements at the Perth-Andover Rotary Park. We are pleased to see the new pavilion is a popular locale for residents and hope to soon make an announcement on the new accessible washroom complex for the park,” she said.

St. Amand said recent improvements to the pavilion include new custom-

made wheelchair-accessible picnic benches. The five large benches can seat up to 10 people each. Pavilion usage is free.

Residents are urged to reserve the locale by calling the Perth-Andover Recreation Department at 506273-4844.

Miramichi-based developer Jesse Tucker purchased the former Woodstock Middle School with plans to convert it into a residential complex. (Jim Dumville photo)

Perth-Andover Rotary Club members present Rick Watson with a $10,000 cheque at a recent meeting. (Submitted photo)

SUMMER DAY CAMPS

July 11 - Science Camp for ages 5 to 8

July 22 - Science Camp for ages 9 to 12

July 24 - Bike Adventures for ages 10+

July 29 - Splash for ages 7 to 12

Contact 506-325-4302 or email ayrmotorcentre@town.woodstock.nb.ca to register. Visit our Facebook page or the Woodstock Recreation website for details.

SUMMER SWIM PROGRAMS

YOUTH SWIMMING LESSONS

Summer swimming sessions for children ages 1 to 6 years will begin on Monday, July 15. Session times are: Swimmer 1, 3 & 5: 8:30 to 9 a.m. Swimmer 2, 4 & 6: 9:15 to 9:45 a.m.

Rookie, Ranger & Star: 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.

COST: $67 per child

Phone (506) 325-4988 or (506) 325-3993 to register

ADULT SWIMMING LESSONS

Learn the basics, get comfortable being under water, floating &maneuver safely with our swim instructors! Starts July 10, runs Wednesdays for 4 weeks from 6:30–7 p.m. Cost: $46. Spots are limited, register online or phone (506) 325-3993 or 325-4988

FULL-DAY OUTDOOR ADVENTURES

Did you KNOW?

• There are two types of horses used in harness racing: trotter and pacer. A trotter moves its legs forward in diagonal pairs (right front and left hind, then left front and right hind striking the ground simultaneously), and a pacer moves its legs laterally (right front and right hind together, then left front and left hind).

• Harness racing was introduced in the 7th century Olympic Games, with four horses hitched to a chariot.

• The cart pulled behind the horse is called a sulky. There are two types: a jog cart and a race bike.

• Harness races are typically 1.6 km to 2.4 km long.

• Harness racers are not allowed to gallop in the United States.

RVS TONGUE TWISTER

Fred fed Ted bread, then Ted fed Fred bread... in bed.

CARLETON COUNTY Colloquialisms

By John Morris

garadge\’ga-’radj\ noun - A building which houses cars, trucks, wheelers, lumber, tools, toys, farm equipment, spare parts, trash, and unwanted Christmas presents; “Well, I parked the sled in the garadge f’th’ summer.” Can be attached to a house, and/or be part of the dooryard.

Hear this word pronounced at www.dooryard.ca.

Join us on Saturday, July 27 for the Tim Hortons Joe McGuire Memorial 5k and 10k

Sponsored by Tim Hortons and local businesses! Hurry to register today –NO REGISTRATION the morning of the race Cost varies according to distance. 7 – 8 a.m. – Pick up bib & timing chip 8:30 a.m. – Race starts at Town Hall Register online at runnb.ca

BOXING SPORT CLUB and the OLD HOME WEEK COMMITTEE will soon be announcing details for the upcoming LIVE BOXING EVENT at the AYR Motor Centre on Saturday, Aug. 3!

WESTERN VALLEY REGIONAL GAMES

Hartt Island - July 10

Paradise Mountain - July 26 Green Hill Lake - July 31

Visit the AYR Motor Centre FB page & the Woodstock Recreation website for info!

CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS

Volunteers

July 17 & 18 for ages 8 to 13

Cost: $55 Hosted by Perth-Andover

Activities, sports, overnight camping (optional), and a dance! Activities include: Activities include: Ball Hockey, Basketball, Bocce Ball, Swim-Run, Badminton, Soccer Baseball, Pickleball, Volleyball, Tennis, Mountain Biking, Archery, and the Amazing Race Represent Woodstock! Contact us at 506-325-4302 or ayrmotorcentre@town.woodstock.nb.ca to register!

NEIGHBOURHOOD NEWS

Swimming Lessons Dates Change

Due to pool repairs, the dates for swimming lessons have been pushed back. The first session, which started the second week of July, will continue until August 2. Session two will begin the second week of Aug. and will end Aug. 30.

Family Night at the Bandstand

Enjoy a family movie at the Bandstand. Films start at 9:45, and there is a concession stand. If the weather is bad, the location will change to the River Valley Civic Centre, 11 School Street.

Roller Skating at RVCC

Rollerskating takes place at the River Vally Civic Centre on Fridays and Saturdays between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. and Sundays from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Rentals are $3 and there is a small concession stand for snacks.

Summer Concert Series

Stop by the Perth-Andover Bandstand at 7 p.m. every Wednesday to hear music from local musicians. The Summer Concert Series runs in July and August.

Juniper breakfasts

The Juniper Community Centre is now open from Tues. to Sat. from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch is served at 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thurs. and Fri. Breakfast is served between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. on Sat. The Community Closet is now accepting debit for purchases over $5. The monthly jamboree is on Sat., July 27, from 2 to 4 p.m. The Juniper Community Centre’s 10th Anniversary Celebration is Sat., Aug 10. Visit our FB page or website: junipercc.ca

Pools are now open

Are your summer days too hot? Enjoy a nice swim at the Centreville, Florenceville, or Bath pools. Private rentals are available. Pool schedules are available on carletonnorth.com.

Tunesay in the Park

Riverside Park in Florenceville-Bristol is again hosting its Tunesay in the Park every Tuesday from 6 to 8 p.m. Bring your own bug spray and chairs to enjoy some free live music. In case of rain, the music moves to the Second Wind Music Centre, 16 Curtis Road. Visit Carleton North on Facebook to see the lineup!

R. G. “Bun” Veysey Centre activities

The R.G. Veysey Centre is hosting Pickleball, Badminton, Rock Climbing Wall, Basketball Senior Social, Day Camps, Youth Summer Sports and more! Follow District of Carleton North Recre-

ation on Facebook for more info. Email: recreation@carletonnorth.com OR call 506-392-6763 ext. 220.

Evening Music at Centreville Gazebo

Grab your friends and family, and stop by the Centreville Gazebo on Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. to enjoy live music.

Drive-in

Movies

Coming this summer: Carleton North region Drive-in Movies! Check out the Explore District of Carleton North Facebook page for the latest movie listings and updates.

Outdoor Summer Market

Join us every Thursday at Riverside Park from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in July and August. Market information is available on the District of Carleton North website or contact: kimberly.brown@carletonnorth.com or 506-392-6763 ext. 207

Show and Shine at Potato World

Join car enthusiasts on Sunday, Aug. 4, from 11 to 3 p.m. The restaurant and museum will be open from 9 to 5 that day.

Go Connection in Lakeville

A camp full of activities for kids aged 10 to 13 from July 8 to 12 at the Lakeville Community Centre. Call (506) 596-9503 to book your spot or email terry@goconnection769.omnicrosoft.com.

Fundraising Golf Tournament

Do you love golf? Pop in at the Covered Bridge Golf and Country Club on Aug 8 at 1 p.m. Supper will be hosted at 6 p.m. Teams of four cost $600. To register your team, email Tina.Pelkey@townofhartland.

Seniors Card Drop-In

Every Wednesday at the Covered Bridge Golf & Country Club from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m., seniors are invited to play Tough 13 cards. Join them for some fun and socialize with a great group of seniors!

Old Home Week Parade goes Disney

Old Home Week Parade Registration is now open. Registration forms can be found in a link on the OHW FB page. Forms must be returned to ohwparade@ gmail.com no later than July 19.

Big Iron Show ‘N Shine

See all the big rigs Sat. July 20 at 2 p.m. at 205 Tamarack Rd. There will be food trucks and live music. Truck entry by donation; registration opens at 9 a.m. All proceeds to the Valley Food Bank.

Canterbury Music in the Park

Join us on Tuesday evenings at the park on Main Street in Canterbury in July and August. Cost is by donation, with half the proceeds going to the performer. Music starts at 7 p.m. Local entertainers include Lisa Giles, Carl O’Donnell, Jess Warman, Clayton Stairs, Trevor Lawson and Hugo Fillion, Steve Hartfield and the Skiff Lake Monster. Treats and BBQ hotdogs are available. All Vendors welcome.

Breakfast in Debec

The Debec Rec Council will sponsor a breakfast at the Debec Trinity Church Hall on July 27, from 7:30 to 10 a.m. Cost by donation. Enjoy pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, bacon hash browns, baked beans, toast, juice, tea, and coffee.

Big Axe Craft Beer Festival

The Big Axe Craft Beer Festival, the largest outdoor craft beer festival in Atlantic Canada, takes place on Friday and Saturday, July 12-13. Visit bigaxefestival. com for details, shuttle service information, and tickets. Dance on Friday night to the music from the band Certified, with Zach Peters opening the event at 7 p.m. Saturday events happen rain or shine.

Are you putting your returnables in your curbside recycling bin?

Donate them to local Breakfast Programs through VAIL’S BOTTLE EXCHANGE IN WOODSTOCK!

Vail’s will donate the proceeds to local breakfast programs! Just tell them where you want your returnables refund to go when you drop them off!

Bring cash for food trucks, the United Way 50/50 draw, and be prepared to show your ID.

Nackawic Market

Make your Thursday evening a little more exciting by stopping by the Nackawic Market! There is a large selection of vendors each week with homemade crafts and goodies. There will be something for everyone. Stop by the Market each Thursday between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.

WANT TO SHARE YOU EVENT HERE? Email theresa@rivervalleysun.ca

Congratulations WHS Graduate

Breanna Lee

Congratulations Breanna on being awarded the Governor General’s Academic Medal. You have worked so hard and we are extremely proud of you!

Love, Mom and Dad

Carleton

Nackawic-Millville

Abigail Reinhart • Amour Love • Avery Dakin • Big South

Dooryard Drifters • Earthbound • Garrett Mason • Goat Mountain

HALIFAX CIRCUS • Jaclyn Reinhart • Jason Haywood & the Goldrush

Jesse Campbell Magic • Jessica Rhaye & the Ramshackle Parade

Kelly McmiChael • Kylie Fox • Laura Forrester • Marcel LeBrun

The Martin Boys • MONTEITH • Morgan Toney • Mr. Mark!

NB7 Comedy Productions • Nicole Rampersaud & Joel LeBlanc

Roxy & the Underground Soul Sound • Stinking Rich

Smoke Spell • The Hello Crows • Wolf Castle

RVS SUNSHINE KID

Meet five-month-old Colt. This sweet, smiley ‘sunshine’ boy loves Cocomelon and bouncing to music. His parents and grandparents say he is currently ‘at war’ with his toes. Colt is loved by all who know him, and is lovingly nicknamed Bubba.

If you’d like your child included in our Sunshine Kid feature, please send a little bio and a photo to the email below.

child’s life is like a piece of paper on which every person leaves a mark.” Submit your sunshine kid(s) photos & info to theresa@rivervalleysun.ca

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

Friday,

Wednesday, July 31

1

1

Thursday, August 1

1 pm Hobby Show & Exhibition

OHW PARADE GOES DISNEY

NOT EVERYONE CAN GO TO DISNEY, SO OLD HOME WEEK IS BRINGING DISNEY TO YOU!

This year’s parade theme is Disney at 100 in honour of their 100th Anniversary. Floats must pre-register by July 19. Find the Parade Registration Form on their Facebook page and email it to ohwparade@gmail.com

THE MARTIN BOYS AND THE RED BRIDGE ROCKERS

Get your feet moving with The Martin Boys & The Red Bridge Rockers. They’ll be performing original tunes & covers of popular 1990s country songs. Join them at the AYR Motor Centre on Friday, August 2, at 9 p.m. Tickets are available at the door. $15 per adult and $10 for those under 18.

Old Home Week offers full schedule to keep folks busy and entertained Woodstock’s favourite week of the year almost here

By Paige Morgan

The much-anticipated Old Home Week 2024 kicks off on July 26, and will run until Aug. 3.

Festivities officially begin July 12 with the Truck and Tractor Pull at the Connell Park Raceway. Many other fanfavourite activities are back, such as the Lawnmower Races on July 27 and the Demolition Derby and Tuff Trucks on Aug. 3.

Other popular events, such as wrestling, boxing, and harness racing, will be back, along with more laid-back activities such as the hobby and

4H show.

This year’s parade is July 28. Expect to see many Disney-themed floats, as Woodstock Old Home Week has decided to celebrate 100 years of Disney.

“Old Home Week is trying to bring a little bit of Disney to Woodstock because not everyone can go to Disney,” said Woodstock Old Home Week committee member Ellen Johnston.

There is still time to register your floats, and the Old Home Week committee encourages people to sign up. Visit

the Old Home Week website to register. Anything Disney is welcome.

Music lovers can stop by the AYR Motor Centre on Friday, August 2, to see the Martin Boys with the Red Bridge Rockers. 2024 will be the first time the Martin Boys have performed for Old Home Week.

“They’re local talent, so we’re looking forward to having them,” said Johnston.

Of course, everyone’s favourite rides like the Freak Out, Ferris Wheel, and much more will be at Old Home Week, thanks

to Campbell Amusements.

Johnston is looking forward to Old Home

Week and can’t wait for everyone to come out and have a great time.

“The closer it gets, the

more

Summer and fall celebrations in Lakeland Ridges

Festivals planned for Fosterville, Debec, and Canterbury

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Residents are ready to celebrate their respective communities through Lakeland Ridges this summer and fall, with plans in place for summer festivals.

Events kick off in Fosterville on Aug. 8 through 10 with the annual North Lake Homecoming Days, including the annual parade and activities at the community hall.

Homecoming Days begin at 6 p.m. on Thursday, Aug 8, with Paint and Sip with artist instructor Sharon Smith. Admission is $40, with art supplies, non-alcoholic punch and snacks provided.

Events continue on Friday, Aug. 9, with a corn boil at the North Lake Recreation Centre in Fosterville.

The celebration hits full throttle on Saturday, Aug. 10, starting with the annual parade at noon. As usual, parade participants will line up at Lois

Gould’s at 11 a.m. to prepare to travel through the village.

The day’s events include the North Lake Firemen hot dog sale for the cost of a donation. The rec centre grounds will host vendors, games and activities for children and adults throughout the day.

Never Too Lake will provide musical entertainment from 12:45 to 2:45 p.m., followed by supper at 4:45 p.m. for a donation.

Meductic gets into the summer action with Meductic Community Days from Aug. 23 to 25. The festivities begin with a corn boil at Meductic Park at 7 p.m. on Friday, Aug. 23. A fireworks display will follow at dusk.

The festival will continue on Saturday, Aug. 24, with a full day of activities, including the annual parade at noon. This year’s parade theme is “Blast from the Past.”

Start the busy Saturday with a breakfast sponsored by the Meductic Fire Department.

From 8 to 11 a.m., young anglers can test their skills and luck at the Fishing Derby at the docks by the park.

The park will be home to a vendors’ market and a food truck throughout Saturday, with children’s games and activities, a bouncy castle and face painting starting at 1:30 p.m.

The day’s events will include “Old Fashioned” bingo, featuring a $1,000 jackpot, starting at 2 p.m.

In Canterbury, organizers are finalizing plans for Canterbury Community Days from Sept. 20 to 22. They urge organizers to stay tuned for details and a schedule of events, including the annual parade. This year’s parade theme will be “Halloween.”

As they await this fall

community festival, Canterbury residents and visitors can enjoy some com-

munity time on Aug. 30. Rollerblading and Music at the Rink will start at 6 p.m., and a barbecue will be on site. The event is weather permitting.

excited I get. It’s the highlight of Woodstock’s summer,” said Johnston.

The OHW Parade theme this year is all things Disney in honour of the corporation’s 100th Anniversary. (File photo)

Parades like this one in Meductic will be a the heart of summer festivals throughout Lakeland Ridges communities this summer and fall. (Jim Dumville photo)

Arts and Culture News from Western New Brunswick

Visiting the new Hartland Farmers Market

Covered Bridge community opens new market to help locals showcase talents

By Paige Morgan

It’s official! Hartland has a farmer’s market. On Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hartland Pavilion, people are welcome to stop by and support local businesses while enjoying fresh air and a view of the St. John River.

Emily Nigro is the lead organizer of the Hartland Farmers Market. She says she started the market to help support local talent.

“We kind of identified a bit of gap; it was just kind of missing from the community, but we have so much local talent,” said Nigro.

Since its opening on June 1, the Hartland Farmers Market has had various vendors come and promote their businesses, including Slipps Petting Farm, The Parlour, Carol’s Creations, and more.

The Hartland Farmers Market will be open until Oct 12 and has plans to

open annually on June 1.

Nigro says she’s only heard positive comments and is happy with how successful the market has been so far.

“The feedback is great. People are praising the fact everybody has a place to congregate and celebrate in the mornings,” said Nigro.

Carol Pelkey of Carol’s Creations has been coming to promote her business since the market opened, and she enjoys herself every weekend. Pelkey says her favourite part of the market is meeting a variety of new people.

First-time attendee and owner of The Parlour, Sarah Everett Shaw, closed her shop for the summer and decided to bring her store’s products to the new venue. Everett Shaw says the market is a great way to discover new creations.

“Summertime markets are fun. It’s just nice to

get out of the house and venture to all the booths and find new products,” says Everett Shaw, noting that she loves that the Hartland Farmers Market

allows people to be outside, meet new people, and get fresh air.

She says the Hartland Farmers Market has been great for local busi-

nesses to show off their talents.

“I hope this one really grows. It’s on a roll. The support’s great,” said Everett Shaw.

If you are a vendor interested in taking part in the Hartland Farmers Market, contact Emily Nigro by email at hartlandfarmersmarket.ca.

Vendors like Annessa Whalen (left) and Sarah Everett Shaw are happy with the exposure they are receiving from the Hartland Farmers Market. (Paige Morgan photo)

The Hartland Farmers Market brings in an assortment of vendors to ensure there is something for everyone, including animals to pet from Slipp Farms. (Paige Morgan photo)

N.B. nursing home wait list soars to over 1,000 Advocate says numbers are ‘highest ever’ with

By John Chilibeck – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Daily Gleaner

The number of people on a wait list to enter a nursing home in New Brunswick has shot up over 1,000, with almost half of them in hospital, says a worried advocate.

Cecile Cassista, executive director of the Coalition for Seniors and Nursing Home Residents’ Rights, has been tracking the numbers since 2017 and has never seen them so bad.

“This is the highest ever,” she said in an interview. “We’ve seen the number hover around 800, maybe, 900, but this is very, very high. I was blown away when I got the report. I thought, ‘this can’t be right,’ it’s so awful.”

Obtained from the Department of Social Development, the figures have been inching higher in recent years. In May, for instance, the number was 993.

For June, however, it shows 1,044 on the wait list, with 513 of those people in hospital, filling beds that would otherwise be used for surgical or acute-care patients.

Breaking the 1,000mark is significant because there are only beds for about 5,000 residents in the province’s 71 homes.

“When people languish in the hospital for more than 10 days, their health changes,” Cassista said. “There’s a lack of staff in the nursing homes causing problems, and we have a broken home care system.”

The wait list is longest in the three biggest cities, with Moncton leading the way, followed by Freder-

icton and Saint John.

Most smaller communities had similarly long wait times to get into a nursing home, except Bathurst, which only had one person on its list.

Cassista, who’s also a long-serving town councillor in Riverview, blamed several factors for the hold up.

For starters, she said it takes too long for the Department of Social Development to assess frail seniors in hospital before they can go to a nursing home.

“The process for the assessment needs to be dramatically streamlined.”

Second, she said workers who take care of seniors aren’t valued enough.

“If they’re not going to pay them proper wages and give them proper working conditions, you’re not going to keep the workers in that environment. I mean, they want to work with seniors, but they can’t live on the wages that they’re making. It’s pathetic.”

Home care agencies, she said, don’t offer the best wages and no benefits. As a result, not enough seniors are getting the help they need to stay in their homes longer. Instead, they become infirm and as soon as they have a medical emergency, land in hospital, waiting for a nursing home.

“As a home care worker, they might get two hours at one home and then they have to go visit the next. But they have to purchase auto insurance, fuel, all the rest. It’s better

for a home care worker to work in a call centre because they’d make more money.”

Brunswick News asked for an interview with Jill Green, the minister of social development, but a spokeswoman for her department said she was unavailable.

That same spokeswoman, Rebecca Howland, confirmed Cassista’s nursing home figures.

However, she added it was important to remember the waitlist numbers frequently change. More than 150 New Brunswickers are placed in a nursing home every month.

“The department has put a significant focus on helping seniors at home for as long as they can through programs like Nursing Home Without Walls, which allows nursing homes to provide some services to seniors living in the community,” the spokeswoman wrote in an email.

“The focus on aging in place is an integral part of the Provincial Health Plan and has included efforts like special care homes partnering with the Extra-Mural Program to provide enhanced clinical services to seniors in their homes.”

The nursing homes themselves recognize the problem. Michael Keating, the interim CEO of the New Brunswick Association of Nursing Homes, said there was a shortage of several hundred employees in the sector out of about 5,200 positions in the province.

The lack of resident

attendants – who perform the bulk of the work at nursing homes – and licensed practical nurses has led to about 200 beds being unfilled, he said.

“The numbers on the wait list are creeping up,” Keating confirmed. “We’re in a crisis in this province with finding enough people to come in and work.”

The executive said his association, the provincial government and the nursing homes have tried to find caregivers in other places, such as the Philippines, northern Africa, France and Belgium.

“If we could get more nursing home beds filled, it would ease the strain on some of the hospitals,” Keating said.

The Progressive Conservative government plans on building 60-bed nursing homes in Oromocto, Bathurst and in Champdoré, just north of Moncton. It will also add 30 beds at Mount Saint Joseph Nursing Home in Miramichi this fall.

Howland said in total, 270 new nursing home beds had opened since January 2023, with another 300 new beds opening over the next two years.

But Keating said it wouldn’t solve the situation outright.

“Given the worker shortage, it makes it a far more complex problem,” he said. “The problem will continue until we have the workers.”

The collective agreement between the association and the union representing most work-

Cecile Cassista, executive director of the Coalition for Seniors and Nursing Home Residents’ Rights, has been tracking the numbers since 2017 and has never seen them so bad. (Submitted photo)

ers in nursing homes, the Canadian Union of Public Employees, expired in 2022 and is under negotiation.

The association acts on behalf of the nursing homes, but it is ultimately the provincial government that pays the wage bill and decides if the terms are affordable for taxpayers.

The contract shows that resident attendants

earn between $21.74 and $23.41 an hour.

A licensed practical nurse at a nursing home earns between $25.23 and $27.16 an hour.

Cassista blamed the lack of workers on low pay.

“We’re not valuing our seniors or our care workers,” she said. “We hear a lot of lip service from government, but the action is not there.”

Brighter Days Boutique

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

We accept donations, and couldusemoremen’sclothing.

Mon - Thurs 9 am - 4:30 pm Friday 9 am - 3 pm

Stop by for a deal while supporting the Valley Food Bank!

We’ve Got Your Back

Feeding the children of Carleton North

By Sandra Hanson

What started ten years ago as a grassroots project to help local school children battling food insecurity has now become a highly successful program that gave out over 3,000 backpacks full of food during the 2023-2024 school year.

“We’ve Got Your Back” is the brainchild of Sheila Palmer and Judy McIsaac, both from True North Baptist Church, where the program is based. Palmer said she saw a need in the community and felt compelled to help.

“A friend of mine in St. Stephen had run a similar program and volunteered to show Judy and me how to go about running our own,” said Palmer.

The program started in the fall of 2014 and initially served only Carleton North and Bristol Elementary schools. Palmer and McIsaac were the only volunteers.

Local need, combined with an offer of help from the church and community volunteers, saw the program expand to include all six Carleton North schools. Today, the program has a lead team of seven people, including a secretary, treasurer, head of purchasing, coordinator, and someone to oversee seven pack-

ing teams. There are now between 25 and 30 volunteers helping with the program weekly.

“It’s amazing how the vision and the passion has spread,” said Palmer.

“Since we started, we’ve now had four or five other places meet with us to see how we did it, so they can start their own program. The need is everywhere.”

Palmer said the families’ names came from a list quietly compiled by guidance counsellors who confidentially approached families to let them know the program was available.

“However, in 2019, Valerie Carmichael suggested sending out a letter to everyone in the school, which allowed students to apply directly.”

After the letter, Palmer says more kids started coming forward to sign up for the program independently.

“Being able to apply themselves gives the students a chance to have ownership over a situation they otherwise can’t control.”

Palmer said anonymity is an essential foundation of the program, and they never receive any program participants’ names.

“We just get the number of bags that the school needs from us.”

Just after they started, the committee met with a dietician who guided them in creating a list of acceptable foods for students.

“We aim to provide optimal nutrition through shelf-stable food,” said Palmer, adding that her group distributed approximately 87 to 90 bags weekly between the six local schools during this past school year.

By June, the organization surpassed 3,000 bags of donated food.

Palmer said the number of families facing food insecurity has climbed substantially since COVID-19.

The program is nonprofit and run entirely by volunteers. Its operating funds come from grants, bursaries, and donations, whether it’s food, cash, or Carleton Coop Cash.

“It can be hard,” admitted Palmer, “as we are never fully funded at the beginning of the school year. But God has been so faithful — we’ve never had to stop or slow down.”

Palmer said the Florenceville Rotary has been a great supporter of their program.

‘We’ve Got Your Back’ is always looking for volunteers and donations.

“We currently could use back-up deliverers to

fill in if someone is sick, but our biggest need is funding and food donations that fall under our accepted criteria,” said Palmer.

If you’re interested in donating to or volunteer-

ing for We’ve Got Your Back, you can contact the program through its Facebook and Instagram pages, We’ve Got Your Back River Valley. Coop Cash donation boxes are also set up at the Carleton Coop in Florenceville-Bristol. If you’d like to donate food to the initiative, get in touch with the organizers to receive their ‘approved foods for donation’ list.

We’ve Got Your Back volunteers received a $10,000 donation from the Brewer Foundation. From left, Nancy Ruff, Allison McIsaac, Charles Walker, Judy McIsaac, Sheila Palmer, Sandy Brewer from the Brewer Foundation, Valerie Carmichael, and Colleen MacDonald-Briggs. (Submitted photo)

The Florenceville-Bristol Fire Department partnered with the True North Youth Lemonade Stand in May 2024, raising $800 for We’ve Got Your Back. From left, Deputy Chief Bill Groves, Fire Chief Andrew Cougle, Clara Libby, Logan Libby, Ava Palmer, Finn McIsaac, and Ashley Hanson. (Submitted photo)

Woodstock enjoys another great Ribfest Organizers say 2024 event a success despite

By Paige Morgan

From June 21 to 23, Woodstock hosted its eighth annual Ribfest. People around the community came out to enjoy food and live music with family and friends, helping to raise money for three cancer support groups.

The funds raised throughout the weekend will be divided between the John T. McMillan Jr.

Memorial Foundation, the River Valley Cancer Support Group, and the Living Beyond Cancer Peer Support Group.

Woodstock Ribfest volunteer and River Valley Cancer Support Group team member Kookie Sewell said she was pleased with the donations received as people entered the Connell Park Raceway, where the event was held.

“One of my favourite parts is the people because they are very generous with their donations,” said Sewell.

Andrew Garnett is one of Ribfest’s main organizers. He said the community is very generous with its support.

“We live in an area that is extremely generous, and not just with the donations, but the 50/50 draw and supporting local ven-

John Boy’ZZZ Mobile Haircutting Service

dors,” said Garnett.

rain on day three

Scott Dunlop is an organizer and Garnett’s Ribfest partner. He believes one of the main reasons people come to Ribfest each year is its support of cancer support groups.

“The fact that so many people are affected by cancer, they like to give back and help those in need,” said Dunlop.

Award-winning and fan-favourites Fat Boys Barbecue and Mississippi Smokehouse fed a record amount of people. Lines for the two vendors reached back to the picnic table area. They were just some of the vendors who saw success. By Saturday, Ketchup and Bite Me already saw record crowds.

“It’s good, we had a good night last night, and hopefully, we have a better one tonight,” said Samual Oakes, a member of the Ketchup and Bite Me staff.

This year is Ketchup and Bite Me’s sixth time attending Ribfest.

“We like the people, the people are awesome,

and just the atmosphere, people come and support it, it’s a good weekend,” said Oakes.

The weekend was full of live music from returning artists like Alpine John, Double D, The Martin Boys, and first-time Ribfest performers like duo Jess Warman and Jordan Gowryluk, and the band Spirit and Seven.

Long-time Ribfest attendee Dylan Bartlett says the live music is one of the best parts of the weekend.

“I love the live mu-

sic, it’s a good venue to have in Woodstock,” said Bartlett.

Adults weren’t the only ones having fun throughout the weekend. Children could play in the Rotary Kids Zone, which had various bouncy castles to occupy the little ones. Parents are also fond of the Rotary Kids Zone.

“I like the outdoor activities for the children, so my kids can go and have some fun outside while I also get to listen to live music,” said Kate Roy.

Thank you from Ivan Sewell and Family

Ivan Sewell and his family would like to thank everyone for their loving response after Ivan’s wood accident in February. We are happy to have him home and to start this new chapter in our lives together.

The Sewell family has been overwhelmed by your prayers and generous gifts. We want to thank the many organizations that have gone above and beyond to help organize many fundraisers. We want to thank Hartland Wesleyan Church, The “Newburg Neighbours Group,” Woodstock’s Pistol and Rifle Club, the Woodstock Legion, the Upper Brighten Church, MacLeod Riverside Court, Coronation Women Institute, Burtts Corner Baptist Church, Big Dog Equipment, Woodstock Christian Academy, Bobby and Brenda Lyons, Pembroke Baptist Church, Lester Brown, Tayor Feed and Tires, Northside Auto, and Burtts Corner Lion Club. Most of all, thank you for your prayers and encouragement over these last few months. Love,

Ivan Sewell and family

Woodstock Ribfest organizers Scott Dunlop and Andrew Garnett are overwhelmed by the community’s generosity. (Paige Morgan photo)

SCAMS: DON’T TAKE THE BAIT!

By Cherie Linder

“To care for those who once cared for us is one of the highest honors.” - Tia Walker

As our loved ones age, protecting their safety and well-being is important, especially against the potential threat of elder fraud.

Older adults are often seen as an easy target for scammers. Some aren’t comfortable with modern technology, plus

BEAUTIFUL BUMBLES

By Linda McHatten

Well, the 2024 bumbling season is now in full swing. What would the season be without a few rallies? These rallies, held by individual clubs, are often used as fundraisers for specific causes. There are so many of them that we usually have to choose which one we’ll go to on any given weekend.

Our first rally was the

Changing places: Scams against the elderly

loneliness and cognitive issues can make them more vulnerable to a scammer successfully manipulating them.

Protecting older family members from financial exploitation requires awareness of many potential risks. There are things that you can do to safeguard your elderly family members and loved ones.

First and foremost, knowledge is critical. Seniors and their families should be educated on common scams and tactics for targeting older adults.

Discuss common scams such as phishing scams, romance scams, grandparents scams, fake emails, websites, and phone calls. If a stranger asks them not

Rallies,

Shiktehawk Bible Camp Rally. This annual event raises money to offset registration fees for children attending summer camp programs. On the day of the rally, it was sunny and 21 degrees. Around 166 people registered for the 85 km round trip. We were treated to a barbecue at the halfway point, and door prizes were drawn. As usual, we met up with old friends and met new people. This rally surely is a great cause.

The next rally for us was the Skidaddle Ridge ATV Club on June 8. Despite the damp, wet weather, the rally went on with 70 bikes registered. Donations from this rally went to

to tell anyone about a phone call or text, that is a huge red flag. Do your utmost to create an honest and loyal relationship to encourage your loved one to come to you when someone requests information or funds from them. With the loss of independence that comes with getting older, people try to hold on to any part of their life that is in their control.

If their wallets are lost or stolen or mail is missing, encourage them to call you and report it to banks, credit card companies, and police. Discuss safe and secure places for personal documents and the importance of protecting personal information such as passwords, so-

Sanctuary House- another great cause. What is a little rain for diehard ATVer? Leaving Howard Brook, we bumbled on some beautiful trails. The trees were so green and fresh, with cobwebs everywhere. They were so sparkly from the rain. Lots of wildflowers showed up along the trails; then there were the mud holes, which most people enjoy; after all, this is what ATVing is all about. We were treated to a barbeque hosted by DAVESPORTS at the halfway point. They also drew for door prizes, and yours truly won a tshirt. Yay!

We had a downpour, and what a time for my old faithful raincoat, which I have worn for years, to decide NOT to

cial insurance numbers, and banking information. Advise them never to transfer money to strangers or give them the codes off gift cards. Discuss the importance of the old adage, “If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is.”

You may need to discuss and establish Power of Attorney and medical planning. These legal documents grant authority to a trusted person to have access to financial and medical information. They can decide on the senior’s behalf if unable to do so and guarantee that responsible parties can help protect their economic and personal interests.

We can empower se-

niors to recognize and thwart these scams by remaining open and honest with our loved ones and encouraging reporting.

In conclusion, protecting our seniors from scams requires a collective effort from society. By raising awareness, educating seniors and their families, and encouraging reporting, we can help prevent finan-

cial loss, emotional distress, and further victimization.

protect me from the rain. I was soaked through. Thank you to Kevin and Pam for digging me out a dry sweatshirt and a fleece blanket. I had a nice, comfy ride home.

River Valley ATV Club held a rally on June 15. Donations from this rally were donated to the Valley Food Bank. Hubby and I enjoyed an excellent breakfast hosted by the Trinity Church Sunday School. Leaving the Debec Recreation Centre, we travelled the trails to Poverty Peak. What a view that area gives you of the other side of the river!

Bumbling along, we travelled over smooth trails, ventured into muddy trails, and stopped along the way to stretch our legs or to take pic-

A reminder that if you have been

DON’T be

but DO contact the

tures of trillium or other wildflowers — the lupins were beautiful.

We stopped at Benton Park for lunch. What a sight to see when we arrived – around 146 bikes registered - 250 people gathered after enjoying the trail.

The children were having a great time on the play equipment, and the dogs had space to stretch their legs as well. Some enjoyed lunch,

which the Debec Recreation Council hosted, while others enjoyed lunch they brought. After lunch, we returned to the starting point, bumbling over winding, dusty, and muddy trails. A great day was by all. Happy trails!

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

scammed,

embarrassed,

police.

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

Greater Woodstock Chamber announces night market

Tuesday evening markets on waterfront return to downtown Woodstock

By Paige Morgan

S

tarting Aug. 13 until Sept. 17, the King Street boardwalk will come alive every Tuesday evening from the return of the Woodstock Night Market.

Since its opening in 2022, the Woodstock Night Market has been a passion project for the Greater Woodstock Chamber of Commerce.

“Our goal has always been to connect the community with both established, and up-andcoming small business-

es,” said Sandra Fanjoy Habold, President of the Greater Woodstock Chamber of Commerce.

“It’s not just another market; it’s a celebration of local talent, flavours, and craftsmanship. We invite everyone to join us on Tuesday evenings for good music, good food, and good company.”

The market features a curated selection of locally grown flowers, fresh vegetables, baked goods, handmade crafts, artwork, and jewelry. Visitors can

discover one-of-a-kind items while supporting local artists and entrepreneurs.

“Uniting local producers and makers with eager shoppers has livened up the downtown during Woodstock’s quiet late summer evenings,” said Tobi Pirie, Tourism Director for the Town of Woodstock.

“This is the perfect reason to take in the views of our beautiful downtown, while supporting our neighbours.”

The Woodstock Night Market will also feature

live music performances, with details to come soon.

Whether you’re a lo-

cal family looking for a night out or a visitor eager to experience the unique charm of our

town, the Woodstock Night Market promises to be a must-attend event this summer.

Canadian Tire raises funds for kids to participate in sports

June 15 Family Fun day at Woodstock store raises money for Jumpstart

RIVER VALLEY SUN

Staff and management at the Woodstock Canadian Tire store treated customers to a Family Fun Day to raise money for their Jumpstart program. Jumpstart provides families with grants that help kids enroll in sports

programs, levelling the playing field and ensuring everyone gets to play.

On Saturday, June 15, the store hosted a barbecue with prize draws. The children enjoyed the Bouncy Castles and cotton candy from Elm Street Treats. Anyone who donated

had their name entered into a draw for a prize basket full of goodies and a new barbecue.

Janice Karnes won the barbecue, and Trevor Hamilton won the goody basket.

Jumpstart funds raised locally are given back to children in the community.

Woodstock Community Rose Garden officially opens for the 2024 season

The Woodstock Community Rose Garden saw a flurry of planting on Saturday, June 15. The garden board was on hand to help distribute plants to gardeners, donated by Jolly Farmers.

Board members also manned a small fleamarket style table, with all proceeds going to the garden. Members include, back row, Stephanie Davis-Thistle, front row, from left, Monica Inman-Riley, Aaron Gullison, and Lori Thomas. (Theresa Blackburn photos)

Jeremy Clarke of Woodstock is a member of the Rose Garden community. He’s getting his hands dirty this year thanks to the availability of a new accessible garden bed. At the official opening he and his sister, Lisa Law, were busy mapping out his garden bed and planting a variety of vegetables he’ll be tending to this summer.

Last year’s Woodstock Night Market on Tuesday evenings along the Woodstock waterfront was such a success that the Greater Woodstock Chamber of Commerce decided to host it again this year. (Submitted photo)

Store owner Mat Brien was all smiles as he handed over some big prizes that were drawn during the Canadian Tire store’s Family Fun Day. Left: Mat presents the barbecue to Brent Karnes, husband of winner Janice Karnes. Right: Trevor Hamilton accepts the basket of goodies from Mat. (Cynthia Brooks photos)

Centreville Childcare celebrates grand opening

New centre adds to region’s daycare capacity

By Sandra Hanson

Years of planning, waiting, and setbacks finally came to an end on Saturday, June 22, as Centreville Childcare (CCC) celebrated the grand opening of their new, state-of-the-art facility.

Several dignitaries attended the grand opening and gave opening remarks before the ribboncutting ceremony.

District of Carleton North Mayor Andrew Harvey credited the Centreville Childcare administration and Richard and Tina Orser for the “amazing facility.”

Carleton-Victoria MLA Margaret Johnson applauded the “tenacity” of CCC Director Jill Shaw in overcoming the obstacles faced in building the facility.

Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development Bill Hogan

told the crowd that “early childhood education is fundamental for creating a strong, thriving society” and congratulated all involved.

Director Jill Shaw welcomed everyone who “came to share in a momentous occasion,” noting that the dream had finally become a reality.

That dream began in 2018. Shaw shared that she still has a yellow envelope that holds the graph paper they used to sketch out different designs for their new facility, which, at that point, was still only a hope.

In the fall of 2022, Richard Orser of Bridge View Plaza had a grandson enrolled in Centreville Childcare. He heard of Shaw’s plans to build a new facility and contacted her. The two met in January 2023.

“When he left that day [after meeting], I realized

we were going to be able to do this; that it was going to happen,” said Shaw. They broke ground on August 21, 2023, at their site adjacent to the Centreville Community School.

While seeing her plan in action was a relief, Shaw said it was anything but smooth sailing. The project faced several challenges during the process, including design and licensing issues.

“I had a saying –– ‘It’s not no, it’s how can we make it work,’” said Shaw. Her unwillingness to give up paid off.

The new facility has 11 bright classrooms and can accommodate 114 children, from infants to 12 years old. It also boasts a significantly larger playground area for the children.

“We went from a parking lot playground to this,”

said Shaw, noting the expansive outdoor area already dotted with picnic tables and toys.

Shaw said the next step for the facility is to finish the playground area.

“We want to make the area as natural as possible,” said Shaw, who hopes to create a track for children to ride their bikes. New and continued donations are being directed to the playground’s completion. It’s not just the adults who are enjoyed watching the facility take shape. Shaw said the daycare children at their old location at the nearby Centreville Baptist Church loved watching the building’s construction phases and were anxious to move into their new classrooms on June 11.

told the River Valley Sun that the children “love the change,” especially being able to run and play on such a big playground and the bright classrooms.

“Our educators strive to instill a love of learning daily,” said Shaw. “We love what we do and we love who we do it for.”

Inclusion Support Worker Stephanie Swim

With a new facility, early childhood educators in Centreville can also love where they do it.

2024 Miss New Brunswick pageant cancelled Organizers hope to institute changes and have pageant return in future

By Paige Morgan

For years, pageants have been a chance for applicants to showcase beauty, talent, and community involvement. Contestants wear their finest attire and smile brightly on stage to win over the hearts of crowds and judges.

The Miss New Brunswick pageant was first introduced in 1955 under the name of the Upper St. John River Valley Competition. The pageant was held at the Island Park grandstand and was originally a fashion show rath-

er than a pageant.

Woodstock’s Marion Kirkpatrick won the title in 1955, making her the first Miss New Brunswick. Since then, each summer, the winners from the community pageants throughout the province compete for the title of Miss New Brunswick. That won’t happen this year. Organizers cancelled the event because there were too few contestants. Only five communities had representatives.

Twyla Rogers is the head coordinator for the Miss New Brunswick pageant. She said the pag-

eant relies on the winners from the community pageants around the province to fill in the number of contestants.

“Miss New Brunswick is based off of other pageants, and this year there are less pageants,” said Rogers.

The significant drop in pageants throughout the province is attributed to various factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic.

Following the COVID-19 lockdown in 2020, many communities decided not to host pageants.

Hartland and Carleton North were two of many

communities that didn’t reintroduce the pageants after the lockdown. Most recently, New Brunswick’s First Town decided not to host a 2024 Miss Woodstock event.

Rogers said that the amalgamation of municipalities has also caused a drop in pageants. In the past, Chipman and Minto would send their individual winners to represent them at the Miss New Brunswick pageant; now, there is only one winner between Chipman and Minto: Miss Grand Lake.

Hoping to increase the number of participants, the Miss New Brunswick pageant committee decided to open registration to everyone. With larger areas like Fredericton and Moncton not having pageants, the committee hoped women might register from those areas, but there were no participants.

“We wanted at least 10 contestants, but just five days before the deadline, we literally had no registrations,” said Rogers.

Kristen Culberson is a former Miss New Brunswick. She won the title in 2019. She believes the lack of participants is due to the format of pageants needing to fully adapt to today’s society, which emphasizes the importance of character rather than beauty.

“The focus should be more on the personality, the community involve-

ment, and volunteerism, instead of necessarily, glitz and glam and being number one,” said Culberson.

Culberson believes that the talent portion of the pageants reinforces stereotypes, keeping people from entering the competition. Most of the talents shown by contestants are “traditional talents,” such as singing and dancing, which not everyone possesses. Culberson added that many people think their particular talents aren’t acceptable for pageants and don’t participate.

“I’m an engineering student, and the idea of highlighting non-traditional talents like robotics or science experiments could be a really cool way to make pageants feel more accessible to people who may believe what they’re good at isn’t necessarily suited for pageants,” said Culberson.

Culberson said she

hopes to see the return of Miss New Brunswick. She said she learned from her travels around the province, meeting new people and believes others should get the opportunity to have the same experience, but she also thinks the pageants need to be revamped to fit the current culture.

“Having the titles gave me an amazing opportunity to have a platform as a high school student and as a young woman to speak about issues I cared about,” said Culberson.

Although the organizing committee had to cancel this year’s pageant, Rogers hopes they can host it in the future. For now, Rogers and her council hope to revise the pageant and come back with a format that better suits today’s generation.

“It’s different times, and we need to maybe look at it a little differently next year,” said Rogers.

Cutting the ribbon: Centreville Childcare facility officially opened on June 22. Helping celebrate were, from left, Carleton-Victoria MLA Margaret Johnson, District of Carleton North councillor Mike Stewart, Centreville Childcare Assistant Director Heather Perry, Director Jill Shaw, Minister of Education and Early Childhood Development Bill Hogan, and businessman Richard Orser. (Sandra Hanson photo)

Carleton County’s Kristen Culberson reacts to her name being called when she became Miss New Brunswick in 2019. (Theresa Blackburn photo)

Plans in place for fourth annual Ride 4 Suicide Awareness

Organizers

reach out to motorcyclists, residents, businesses to support Sept. 7 event

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Maria Pozsgai understands the pain of losing a close family member to suicide.

In February of 2020, her nephew Jon took his own life. She and others used the tragedy to raise funds for mental health research and bring awareness to suicide prevention efforts.

Pozsgai explained that, in recognition of Jon’s love of motorbikes and his loved ones’ desire to remember him in a meaningful way, they launched the inaugural Ride 4 Suicide Awareness in 2021 in Woodstock. On Saturday, Sept. 7, bikers will gather for the fourth annual event.

“Ride 4 Suicide

Awareness aims to raise money, awareness and ignite conversations in our community to support mental health,” Pozsgai explained in a letter to the business community seeking support. “Every year, approximately 4,500 people in Canada die by suicide, which is equivalent to 12 people dying by suicide every day.

In addition to the far too many lost to suicide, she noted many others experience suicidal thoughts or attempt to take their own lives.

Each year, Ride 4 Suicide Awareness donates funds to groups and organizations dedicated to mental health research, services and suicide pre-

vention.

Last year, the event raised $5,220 for mental health, which the committee donated to Atlantic Canine Therapy for First Responders.

The annual motorcycle rally will donate funds to the Maddy Murphy Memorial Foundation this year.

The foundation’s goals align with those of the Ride 4 Suicide Prevention. The Maddy Murphy Memorial Foundation’s website describes itself as “driven by a single goal; to support the Mental Health Community by raising awareness and promoting education to end the ‘Stigma of Mental Health’ all in the name of Maddy

Living life to the fullest

Murphy in order to make a positive out of a tragedy.”

The Ride 4 Suicide Awareness begins and ends at J&T PowerSports on Houlton Street in Woodstock. Riders can register for a $20 fee between 9:30 and 10:30 a.m., with the ride starting at 11 a.m.

Pozsgai hopes to welcome 150 or more people to this year’s ride. She also encourages residents and business owners to financially support the cause through donations of money or gifts to use as door prizes.

For more information, phone or text at 506425-1740 or by email at ride4suicideawareness@ gmail.com.

A profile of retired teacher and community volunteer Sharon Kitchen

By Julie Stone

Sharon Kitchen was born to a Scottish MacDougald family in Canterbury, New Brunswick. She was the oldest of three children (two younger brothers) and had many responsibilities, as one would imagine being the norm in those days.

Sharon attended the neighbourhood school until the end of Grade 10 when her family sent her to Boarding School in Nova Scotia. She graduated from Horton College, part of Acadia University, and studied Arts at the University of New Brunswick. She married her husband Bob at 19 and began a teaching career spanning many decades.

Sharon and Bob had three children, a daughter and two sons. She taught school, first in Burtts Corner, then in Canterbury and then in Nackawic. She, Bob and the children moved to the places where she taught to be close to the schools. Her children graduated from Nackawic High School, and Sharon taught there until retirement. At that time, she and Bob moved to Skiff Lake, where they built a cottage/house on

the water’s edge with big windows so they “could look out at the water from most anywhere.”

During her time teaching high school, Sharon became involved in hockey as what is locally known as a “Hockey Mom.”. She believed that being on a hockey team was good discipline for young people and, during this time, looked after tickets even after retirement, and her kids were no longer playing the game.

Sharon also became the “house mother” for what became a drop-in centre when her youngest son was in high school. If there were a dance or a game, students from Burtts Corner, invited by her son, would “come to my house and get changed and have some supper. It will save you from having to go all the way home and then come back again.”

Over time, other students and even some adults sought refuge in Sharon’s home.

Not quite content with her busy home and school life, Sharon became interested in local politics, partially “because someone asked me to take notes.”

She became a town

councillor for two terms. Sharon enjoyed the discussions, the give-andtake of council ideas and the decision-making.

Bob died “very suddenly” of cancer shortly after Sharon retired. She admitted she lived in shock for the first year. During the second year, she renovated the house.

When what Sharon describes as her old “get up and get going” spirit resurfaced, Sharon’s life took on a whole different meaning. Intrigued and excited by an advertisement for teachers to teach English in China, Sharon applied for the job, bought the tickets and away she flew.

Sharon worked in China for six years, first as a teacher and then as a principal. Over that time, she taught many Chinese young people and became not only their teacher but also their “mother,” as many saw her. She organized parties for them, visited their homes, danced and sang with them, and became part of their daily culture.

Words from a book of student writings that Sharon still cherishes remind her of her time with students in China. She

also saved photos of her classes enjoying outings that she planned.

“In a word, I love you my dear teacher, I will miss you – our lovely country girl, our lovely country mother. Ellen.”

“As a mother, you often gave us some good advice -like our motherto help us do everything. Thank you for your help ‘MOM.’Love you forever. Helena.”

“I got a lot from you, thank you very much! Please take good care of yourself. Enjoy life. Jake.”

During school holidays in China, Sharon travelled extensively, visiting Russia, Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Egypt, and many small towns and cities. She also travelled the waterways and very much enjoyed being on the Yangtze River, the longest river in China. Sharon related that her son Rob taught in Korea for a year, that she visited him there, and that she took some of her grandchildren with her on a trip to China.

Upon her return to Canada and her lakefront property on Skiff Lake, Sharon did not rest. She became a member of the Multicultural Association

in Florenceville.

Sharon visited many schools where she talked to the students about her experiences working with students from other cultures and about some of their traditions and languages. Sharon said that the students were very interested and that she enjoyed sharing her experiences with them/

“Telling stories can teach students a lot,” she said.

While working with the Multicultural Association of Carleton County, Sharon met a couple from Ukraine who she invited to live with her in Skiff Lake until they could find a place to live. They stayed with her for four months, during which time she met another couple from Ukraine, who she invited

to meet the others in her home. She also helped these friends travel to appointments in Woodstock and Fredericton so they could get their paperwork in order.

These days, Sharon also keeps busy playing bridge, taking her grandson swimming in Woodstock and stopping in once or twice a week to The Gathering Place in the Nackawic Mall.

“This place is the greatest thing going. Every town should have one,” Sharon said of The Gathering Place.

Sharon Kitchen is a fascinating person to talk with and outstanding to get to know. You can bet that she won’t stop caring and doing for others as long as she has life in her body. Way to go, Sharon!

The fourth annual Ride 4 Suicide Awareness will be held Sept. 7 in Woodstock. (Maria Pozsgai photo)

Sharon Kitchen, second from left, with some of her students in China. (Submitted photo)

COURT NEWS

A roundup of cases processed through Woodstock Provincial Court

By Judy Cole-Underhill

Butler verdict delayed until September

A verdict in the Rodney Butler trial has been delayed until Sept. 9 at 1:30 p.m.

Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean was scheduled to render his decision on July 2. However, McLean told the court he needed more time to complete his written deliberations. Crown Prosecutor Rodney Jordan and Defence Counsel Alex Pate agreed to the delay.

Butler, 50, of Bulls Creek, was charged by RCMP with intentionally discharging a firearm while reckless as to the life and safety of another person, indictable assault, uttering threats, using a handgun to kidnap Chris Demerchant, unlawful confinement, possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace, possession of a firearm without a licence, and illegal possession of a firearm in a vehicle on Nov. 13, 2021, at Bulls Creek.

No charges have been laid in relation to the killing of Butler’s partner, Christine Pelletier-Thibodeau, who died as a result of her injuries following a shootout outside Butler’s residence on the day of the incident. Police tape was erected around the property, which was surrounded by a vehicle salvage yard.

Members of PelletierThibodeau’s family were in court on July 2 for the verdict and left the proceedings disappointed by the delay. Butler was also in attendance and exited the courtroom quietly to await his new court date.

Five months in jail for leaving accident scene

A Grand Falls man was sentenced to five months in jail on June 25 for leaving the scene of an accident that left his victim lying on the road with serious injuries.

Amedee Clement, 63, pleaded guilty to reckless driving and leaving the scene of an accident on the Tobique Narrows Dam on June 8, 2023.

Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean also placed him on 12 months of probation and prohib-

ited him from driving for two years. He must have no contact with the victim.

The court heard Clement was driving his truck over the dam when the vehicle swerved into the oncoming lane and struck a man driving a motorcycle. Clement drove on without stopping. The man suffered multiple injuries and was hospitalized for weeks.

Clement told police he did not know what he hit at the time or that a person was involved. A passenger in his truck did see the motorcycle just before the collision.

Another witness said it looked like Clement deliberately caused the accident. Clement had just left the casino at Tobique and had been drinking and smoking marijuana.

“He had an obligation to stop to make sure it was not a person,” said Judge McLean. “The consequences for leaving the scene are worse than staying. The penalty must be significant.”

McLean noted the victim suffered “horrible injuries that could have been fatal.”

Police were able to track down Clement’s truck from a broken mirror found on the road on the dam. He had a dated prior criminal record.

30 days in jail or time served

James Edward Pickard, 30, of Perth-Andover, was sentenced on July 4 to 30 days in jail or time served after changing his plea to guilty on an assault charge laid by RCMP.

Judge Sebastian Michaud also placed him on 12 months of probation and ordered him to seek counselling and have no contact with the victim. Pickard must also register with the federal DNA database, and he was prohibited from possessing any weapons or firearms. He was also fined $100.

Pickard pleaded guilty to assault with a weapon (a Japanese sword called a katana) concerning an incident on April 29, 2023, at Perth-Andover. Another charge of possessing a weapon dangerous to the public peace was withdrawn. The Japanese sword was forfeited to the

crown at sentencing.

The court heard the incident involved an assault on another man at an apartment building in Perth-Andover. The man heard glass breaking and pounding on the floor in an upstairs apartment and went to investigate. When he knocked on the door, Pickard threw the Japanese sword, which landed at the victim’s feet. Crown evidence indicated Pickard was having a mental health crisis at the time.

Pickard spent two months in custody on remand after the incident. He had a dated prior criminal record.

He agreed to sign a 12-month peace bond regarding two other charges of uttering threats and committing mischief on May 3, 2023, in Perth-Andover. The peace bond will result in those charges being withdrawn.

Pickard appeared in provincial court in custody for his bail hearing on July 12, 2023, and was released with conditions. He was remanded until his release from custody. 120 days in jail or time served

Jordan Ronald Broad, 29, of Florenceville-Bristol, appeared in provincial court on June 25 and was sentenced to 120 days in jail or time served on several charges laid by the RCMP. He was also placed on probation for 12 months.

Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean ordered Broad to register with the federal DNA database and recommended he seek counselling for anger management and intimate partner violence. He was also prohibited from using firearms for five years.

Broad pleaded guilty to uttering threats and assault involving a female victim during a domestic dispute on Oct. 8, 2023, at Florenceville-Bristol. The crown withdrew another charge of assault by choking.

He also pleaded guilty to assaulting his father with a weapon (a candleholder) and committing mischief causing property damage to a residence in a separate incident on Jan. 6 at Florenceville-Bristol. The crown withdrew an-

other charge of breach of an undertaking.

Broad also pleaded guilty to breaching his release by violating a no-contact order at Florenceville-Bristol between Feb. 14 and Feb. 21.

He appeared in court for a bail hearing on Feb. 28 and was remanded to jail. He spent several months in custody before being released with conditions in May. He had a minimal prior criminal record that included one previous conviction for domestic violence.

Sentencing adjourned for Cloverdale man

A Cloverdale man was expected to receive a federal prison term on June 24 for shooting at a police officer. His sentencing was adjourned until Aug. 2 at 1:30 p.m. at the request of his defence counsel.

Wyatt DeLong, 28, pleaded guilty to discharging a firearm with intent at a police officer, flight from police, dangerous driving, and indictable breach of probation in connection with an incident on July 14, 2023, at Florenceville-Bristol. DeLong has been in custody since his arrest.

Under the Criminal Code of Canada, a conviction for discharging a firearm with intent (to endanger the life or safety of another person) carries a potential prison sentence of five years for a first offence.

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

RCMP arrested DeLong and Buchanan after a manhunt in Victoria County following a series of incidents in the upper river valley.

Sentencing set for Bloomfield man

Logan Sanders, 25, of Bloomfield, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on July 2 and pleaded guilty to several charges laid against him by RCMP. His sentencing date was set for July 30 at

1:30 p.m.

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

Sanders pleaded guilty to indictable dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene of an accident concerning an incident on April 26 near Meductic. He was arrested while attempting to cross the Woodstock/Houlton border.

The charges were laid following an accident when an oncoming car driving in the wrong lane forced a vehicle off the four-lane highway. A Plaster Rock woman and three youths were not injured when their vehicle left the highway and rolled over in the ditch after swerving to avoid the oncoming car.

Sanders also pleaded guilty to committing mischief by damaging a woodstove, walls, door and a table at a residence on Dec. 1-31, 2023, in Bloomfield; guilty to two counts of uttering threats on Sept. 1 in Bloomfield; and guilty to mischief by damaging doors and windows on Oct. 1-31, 2023, in Maple Ridge.

He pleaded not guilty to another charge of assault with a weapon (a knife) involving a male victim on Sept. 1, 2023, in Bloomfield. His trial date was set for Sept. 4 at 1:30 p.m. Sanders was denied bail on May 30.

Jacksonville man guilty on gun charge

Shayne Everett Cameron, 30, of Jacksonville, appeared for trial in provincial court on July 4 and changed his plea to guilty on a weapon charge laid by RCMP. His sentencing date was set for Aug. 9 at 1:30 p.m.

Cameron pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm while prohibited (a sawed-off shotgun) for an incident on Jan. 24, 2023, at Juniper. A second charge of possessing a weapon dangerous to the public peace will be withdrawn at sentencing. The crown also agreed to withdraw another charge of possessing a stolen vehicle in Woodstock on April 11, 2023.

Cameron appeared in provincial court in custody on April 25 for a bail hearing and was denied bail. Woodstock Police charged him with two counts of assaulting police

with a weapon (a knife), robbery, possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace, possession of a stolen vehicle, theft of mail, uttering threats, assault with a weapon; flight from police, dangerous driving, resisting arrest, and breach of a release order for an incident on Jan. 22. He pleaded not guilty and his trial was set for Aug. 7 at 1:30 p.m. and Aug. 9 at 9:30 a.m.

Woodstock Police laid the charges after locating a man in the passenger seat of a vehicle at a business on Connell Street. The man threatened the driver with a weapon, attempting to encourage the driver to flee. Police gained entry to the vehicle and tried to remove the man when he grabbed a knife and attempted to stab the officers.

Two officers sustained minor injuries in the incident. The driver then exited the vehicle, and the man got into the driver’s seat and fled the scene. A short time later, the vehicle was located in Perth-Andover by RCMP. A police dog located the individual, and he was arrested without incident.

Cameron appeared in provincial court in custody on Jan. 23 after being arrested the day before on five warrants. He has been in custody since that time. He appeared in provincial court in custody on Nov. 8, 2023, for a bail hearing and was released with conditions. He was arrested on a warrant for failing to appear in court on Oct. 31, 2023. He pleaded guilty at his court appearance on April 25, and a sentencing date was set for Aug. 7 at 9:30 a.m.

He also pleaded guilty to breaching a release order (curfew) in Woodstock on Nov. 16, 2023. His sentencing on this charge will also take place on Aug. 7 at 9:30 a.m. The crown withdrew a charge of breach of an undertaking on Sept. 28, 2023.

Cameron was also charged with uttering threats and assaulting another man on Oct. 28, 2023, at Greenfield. He pleaded not guilty and goes to trial on Aug. 7 at 9:30 a.m.

See COURT on pg. 29

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Continued from page 28

He was also charged with breach of a no-contact order and resisting police on Nov. 4, 2023, at Perth-Andover. He pleaded guilty to the breach and not guilty to resisting arrest. Those matters will be dealt with in court on July 29 at 1:30 p.m.

Cameron was also charged with assaulting a female victim, assault with a weapon (a machete) and uttering threats for incidents between Sept. 8 and Sept. 13, 2023, in Woodstock. He pleaded not guilty, and the trial will be held on Aug. 7 at 9:30 a.m.

Sentenced to house arrest

Faith York, 24, of Perth-Andover, received a six-month conditional sentence of house arrest when she appeared for sentencing in provincial court on June 18 on a forgery charge. She was also placed on 12 months of probation and ordered to follow a curfew and seek mental health counselling.

RCMP charged York with uttering forged documents (cheques) and defrauding a bank of $5,747 in connection with incidents at Neqotkuk between June 13, 2022, and July 4, 2022.

York pleaded guilty to uttering forged documents, and the crown withdrew the fraud charge. She had a limited prior criminal record.

The court heard York played a small part in an elaborate scheme on the First Nation to defraud the band office. She digitally altered a cheque and deposited the funds electronically into her account during 20 transactions using her phone. The amounts were drawn on the band’s social services account. Several other individuals in the community were also involved in the same type of activity. The band office was compensated for the financial loss by the bank.

Suspended sentence, probation for assault

Justin Frenette, 41, of Florenceville-Bristol, received a suspended sentence and 12 months of probation when he appeared in provincial court on June 18. He was also ordered to seek counselling for anger management.

Frenette was charged with assault while threatening to use a weapon

(boiling water) and assault with a weapon (a lit cigarette) for incidents on Sept. 6, 2023, and Oct. 10, 2023, in Glassville. He pleaded guilty to assault involving a female victim, and the crown withdrew the two remaining charges.

The court heard both incidents involved a domestic dispute, and Frenette was struggling with health issues at the time. He had no prior criminal record. Frenette was ordered to have no contact with the victim and must not have any firearms in his possession for five years.

Sentencing set on drug charge

Bronwyn Barbara Thomas, 23, of Bloomfield, appeared for trial in provincial court on June 17 and changed her plea to guilty on a drug charge. Her sentencing date was set for Aug. 26 at 9:30 a.m.

RCMP charged Thomas with attempting to possess methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking in connection with an incident on March 2, 2022, near Centreville.

150 days or time served

Brittany Priscilla King, 27, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court on June 21 to be sentenced on charges laid by Woodstock Police. She was sentenced to 150 days in jail or time served and placed on 18 months of probation.

Judge Henrik Tonning also ordered King to register with the federal DNA database and to seek mental health and addiction counselling. She had a dated prior criminal record.

King pleaded guilty to possession of stolen property, two counts of assaulting a police officer, and resisting arrest for incidents on Nov. 7, 2022, in Woodstock and on Nov. 22, 2022, in East Brighton. The crown withdrew a mischief charge.

King spent several months in remand. She was released from custody following a detention review hearing at the Court of King’s Bench. On May 29, the provincial court released her again with the same conditions, including house arrest and wearing an electronic monitoring device attached to her ankle. On June 21, she was told the ankle bracelet would remain while she was awaiting trial.

Woodstock Police also

charged her with possession of a stolen vehicle, dangerous driving, committing mischief causing property damage and assault using a vehicle following an incident on Sept. 17, 2023, in Woodstock; possession of a stolen vehicle on Nov. 22, 2022, and failing to attend court on Feb. 21, 2023. She pleaded not guilty, and a trial date was set for July 15 at 9:30 a.m.

King was also charged with assault, theft, and breaking into a dwelling house for an incident on Nov. 5, 2023, in Woodstock. She pleaded not guilty. At the crown’s request, the trial was adjourned until Aug. 23 at 1:30 p.m.

She appeared in provincial court in custody in November for a bail hearing and was released with conditions, including wearing an electronic monitoring device attached to her ankle, but returned to custody.

30 days in jail for breach

Kelsey Janetta Brooker, 30, of Florenceville-Bristol, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on June 21 and changed her plea to guilty on one charge laid by RCMP. She was sentenced to 30 days in jail consecutive to time she is already serving.

RCMP charged Brooker with being at large on a release order for an incident on May 30 at Perth-Andover. The court heard a conditional sentence order was revoked following her arrest. Brooker has a prior criminal record.

90 days or time served

Terrance Wright, 60, of Greenfield, appeared in provincial court for sentencing on June 20 after pleading guilty to several charges laid by Woodstock Police and RCMP. He was handed 90 days in jail or time served.

Wright also received 12 months of probation and an order to register with the federal DNA database. He must also seek counselling as required and have no contact with the complainants.

Woodstock Police charged Wright with assaulting another man and uttering threats concerning an incident on Feb. 24 in Woodstock. He pleaded guilty.

He was also charged by RCMP with three counts of uttering threats against a female victim, committing mischief caus-

ing property damage, and breach of a no-contact order in connection with incidents on Dec. 11 and Dec. 23, 2023, at Greenfield. He changed his plea to guilty to three of those charges.

Wright appeared in provincial court in custody by video on April 18 for a bail hearing. He was released with conditions, including wearing an electronic monitoring device attached to his ankle.

Sentenced postponed

John Long, 34, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on June 24 for sentencing on one charge laid by Woodstock Police. At the request of his defence counsel, the sentencing was adjourned until Aug. 2 at 1:30 p.m.

Long appeared in court on Jan. 12 for a bail hearing and was remanded to jail.

He was charged with two counts of breaching a release order and breach of probation concerning a Jan. 5 incident in Woodstock.

He changed his plea to guilty to one charge of breaching his release order by violating electronic monitoring (ankle bracelet), and the crown withdrew the other two charges. The court heard that one other charge is being transferred from Edmundston.

Awaiting plea in violent kidnapping

Sheena Sappier, 36, and Keagan Paul, 32, both of Neqotkuk, appeared in provincial court for plea on July 4 in relation to a vio-

lent kidnapping at Tobique First Nation in April. A total of seven people have been charged in the incident.

Sappier, Keagan Paul, and Ashley Paul, 33, are jointly charged by RCMP. Their pleas were adjourned until July 18 at 9:30 a.m.

Sappier was charged with two counts of unlawful confinement, attempting to obstruct justice by disposing of evidence, and theft of a motor vehicle. Keagan Paul is facing similar charges.

Ashley Paul, 33, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on June 27 and was denied bail. She was charged with two counts of unlawful confinement, kidnapping, theft of a motor vehicle, and attempting to obstruct justice by disposing of evidence.

She is also facing other separate charges. She pleaded not guilty to unlawful entry at a dwelling house and breach of probation on Feb. 14 at Neqotkuk, assaulting another woman and breach of probation on March 2 at Perth-Andover, obstructing police on April 11 at Neqotkuk, and failing to appear in court on March 19.

A trial date of Oct. 7 at 9:30 a.m. was set for the March 2 and April 11 incidents. A trial date for the Feb. 14 incident will be set at her next court appearance.

Paul was also charged with uttering a forged document ($2,000), possession of stolen cheques, fraud,

and breach of probation for an incident on Oct. 10, 2023, at Perth-Andover. She will enter a plea to this set of charges at her next court appearance on July 18. Paul has a limited prior criminal record.

Preston Sockabasin, 27, of Neqotkuk, will appear in court for plea on July 8 at 9:30 a.m. on charges stemming from the alleged kidnapping. Sockabasin also faces separate charges of dangerous driving and flight from police for an incident on May 7.

Troy Pelkey, 56, of Tilley, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on June 18 and pleaded not guilty to four charges related to the alleged kidnapping. His three-day trial was set for Sept. 11-13 at 9:30 a.m. Pelkey was denied bail on May 10.

Adam Perley, 33, of Neqotkuk, appeared in court in custody by video for a bail hearing on May 30 and was denied bail. He returns to court in custody for plea on July 16 at 10 a.m.

Jacob Perley, 34, of Neqotkuk, also appeared in court in custody by video on June 18 and waived his bail until later. Sixteen charges were adjourned for plea until July 9 at 9:30 a.m.

Perley was also charged with breaching a conditional sentence order (house arrest). He appeared in court in custody by video on June 3 and was remanded to complete the rest of his sentence (317 days) behind bars. HOW

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Highlights and Features of Local Sports and Sporting Events

Southern Victoria ready to host young Upper Valley athletes

Western Valley Regional Games set

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Young athletes from Nackawic-Millville to Plaster Rock will gather in Perth-Andover on July 17 and 18 for the 41st annual Western Valley Regional Games.

The games offer young athletes, aged eight to 13, a chance to compete in a wide range of sports and games, enjoy overnight camping, and socialize with children from across the Upper Valley.

The Southern Victoria Rural Community plays host to the 2024 games at the River Valley Civic Centre in Perth-Andover.

Western Valley

Games Coordinator Taylor Adams explained that the games are an excellent way for Upper Valley children to bond in a fun atmosphere.

“This event has, and persists, to connect the communities of Western Valley New Brunswick (Nackawic to Plaster Rock), and to provide opportunities for youth to experience competition, fair play, socialization, and physical activity,” said Adams. “This summer, we are expecting approximately 275 children and youth in attendance.”

Divided into groups of eight to 10 years and

for July 17-18

11 to 13, participants can choose from several sports, including threeon-three basketball, bocce ball, swimming, running, pickleball, volleyball, biking, archery, badminton, ball hockey, and kayaking.

Adams said the opening ceremonies will be held Wednesday, July 17, at 9:15 a.m. at River Valley Civic Centre.

In addition to the opportunity to represent their respective communities, the young athletes can learn new sports, camp overnight, attend a dance and enjoy other activities.

at River Valley Civic Centre

Committee ‘pulling’ out all stops in Centreville

Truck and tractor pull adds video replay and new 50/50 draw to elevate event

By Theresa Blackburn

The Centreville Power

Pull organizing committee wants to grow the event, and Garth Seely said that means doing more for the spectators and the community.

“We added the instant replay, which we think adds a lot of value,” said Seely, who co-chairs the event with Byron McGrath.

Aurora Productions out of Fredericton, headed by brothers Zack and Ken Dickinson, had multiple video angles, including a camera capturing all the action on a zipline. This gave the crowd a more intimate view of the action and immediate replays.

“That was something we didn’t have before, and it worked really well,” said Seely.

Also new this year was the Rafflebox 50/50 draw, which was won by Christal Demerchant, who walked away with $16,362.50. Proceeds from the draw will be donated to several community organizations over the coming months.

Scott Seely is the head of tech and safety for the Maritime Truck and Tractor Pull Association.

This year, the pull saw

people blocked from the area directly beside the track.

“Thankfully nothing ever happened previous to this, but that was dangerous to have people in that area. So far, people have been very cooperative in staying out of the area. Safety is always the top priority, and this has made things safer,” said Seely, noting that some of

Youth from all around the region participate in a pretty competitive game of tug of war in July 2023. (Connor Barry photo)

the trucks and tractors that pull can be unpredictable in competition.

The tradition of tuck and tractor pulling con-

tinues on July 12 and 13 in Woodstock as the Old Home Week Committee prepares for their event at Connell Park Raceway.

Kathryn Chisholm photo)

All Bets on Tax proves a safe bet in Woodstock Pacer leads field to capture Walter Dale Memorial at Canada Day races

By Scott Waddell, Horse Racing New Brunswick reporter

Confident in his horse

All Bets On Tex, Jeffrey Lilley quickly accepted an invitation to the prestigious Walter Dale Memo-

rial at the Connell Park Raceway in Woodstock His “bet” paid off as the pacer captured the Walter Dale Memorial as Horse

Racing New Brunswick’s celebration of Canada Day delivered the first card of racing in the province this season.

Leaving from post one, the son of All Bets Off surpassed $55,000 in career winnings with the victory. Brett LeBlanc sent the pacer to the front and parked out the favourite, The Bird Dance N. Dan DesLandes took The Bird Dance N to the pocket, and he barely made it before Paul Langille and Batterup Hanover closed the hole.

Owned by Lilley and Blair Maclaughlan, as well as Kent Livingston and Marc Gallant, the pacer controlled every fraction and held on for the victory.

The Bird Dance N was second, with Island Beach Boy flying home late. The time of the mile was 1:55.3 for the pacer. It was one of two wins on New Brunswick soil, winning earlier with Ubetimagoodone.

Earlier in the card, newcomer Flip The Script,

for driver Brodie MacPhee and trainer Ashley MacDonald, equalled the mare pacing record with a trip in 1:56, tying the mark set by Abby Best.

Other winners on the day included P J Spudland for Colin DeCourcey, along with Littlesticious, Emperor, and Privilege.

Explore the River Valley with the River Valley ATV Club

The River Valley ATV Club is located in Carleton County, and is a member of QuadNB. Our motto is to promote safe recreational ATV use while developing and maintaining a trail system in an environmentally responsible manner. Our club is located in Zone 7 of the Federation, in the beautiful St. John River Valley.

Meetings are 7 p.m. on last Tuesday of the month from March to Nov. at the Y’s Men Club on Connell Park Road, Woodstock Upcoming meetings take place on July 30, Aug. 27, Sept. 24, Oct. 29, Nov. 26. email: info@rivervalleyatv.com web: rivervalleyatv.com or like us on Facebook: River Valley ATV Club Inc