River Valley Sun, June 2021 Volume 3 Issue 6

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‘REMEMBER, OUT OF THEIR SLUMBER, THEY WOKE A NATION’

Emotional Woodstock First Nation ceremony remembers 215 children who never returned home

BY JIM DUMVILLE - Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

E

motions ran high as Woodstock First Nations gathered at the Eagles Nest Monday, May 31, to honour the memory of the 215 bodies of children discovered on the grounds of a former British Columbia residential school.

“Remember, out of their slumber, they woke a nation,” said event organizer and Woodstock First Nation member Bonnie Polchies.

With tears in her eyes, Polchies paid homage to the lost children. Standing in the Eagles Nest front lobby, next to her sat more than 215 pairs of neatly displayed shoes that visitors brought in

recognition of the children who never returned home after being taken from their indigenous families as part of a generational stain on Canadian history.

The recent discovery of the graves at the former Kamloops Indian Residential School in Kamloops by the Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation shocked Canadians and the world. Still, it didn’t come as a surprise to indigenous people with personal knowledge of the horrors of Canada’s residential school system.

Woodstock First Nation Chief Tim Paul’s voice broke as he addressed the more than 60 people in attendance at the

drumming and smudging ceremony marking the sombre discovery.

“I can’t imagine what it was like for the families that lost their children,” he said.

Paul said the bleak revelation in British Columbia is a reminder of centuries of intolerance and cruelty towards Canada’s indigenous population.

“Inaction by governments has gone through generations,” he said.

As mind-boggling as the discovery in Kamloops is, Paul reminded those in attendance, “this is not the only one.”

See CHILDREN on pg. 2

Remembering the children: More than 215 pairs of shoes sit neatly on display in the Eagle’s Nest lobby. (Jim Dumville photo)

Truth and Reconciliation Commission Closing Prayer

By Roseanne Clark

Great Mystery, thank so, so much for this new day. Please heal the people who are battling cancer and other illnesses. Please help the people who are trying to stop drinking and taking drugs.

Please protect the children who are being abused and neglected.

Please help the people who attended the residential schools to become healthy again. Help them to find peace and love. Help them to love themselves. Please relieve our forgotten elders of their loneliness.

Please help the murdered and missing Indigenous women and their families. Please help these people who came to this meeting to return home safely to their families.

Thank you, Great Mystery, for all that you do to take care of us!

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CHILDREN

Continued from page 1

The Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc First Nation, in the press release announcing their grim finding, said it hired specialists in ground-penetrating radar to search the residential school area in the most culturally appropriate and respectful way possible.

“To our knowledge, these missing children are undocumented deaths,” Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc Kukpi7 Chief Rosanne Casimir said in the statement.

“Some were as young as three years old. We sought out a way to confirm that knowing out of deepest respect and love for those lost children and their families, understanding that Tk’emlúps te Secwépemc is the final resting place of these children.”

Polchies said similar searches must proceed at other residential schools across the nation.

“As we honour 215 little ones,” she said, “we must find the rest.”

She said each residential school had chil-

dren who never returned to their families.

Polchies said she knows personally about the pain and hardship residential schools delivered to generations of indigenous people, noting both her father and aunt carried the scars of their time at the residential school in Shubenacadie, Nova Scotia.

She said her father never wanted to talk about his painful experiences, adding he always resisted her attempts to learn the Maliseet language.

Residential school teachers and officials punished children for speaking their native tongue.

Anatasha Lyons, who recited prayers in Maliseet and English during Monday’s event, said her grandfather refused to teach her Maliseet.

Lines from the reconciliation poem she read included, “Help people who attended residential schools to heal. Help them to love again. Help them to love themselves.”

Drummer Charlie Nicholas said his performance at Monday’s ceremony was for the children, not just the 215 lost souls, but all children, in-

cluding those on hand at the Eagles Nest.

With the young children sitting on the floor of the Eagle’s Nest large bingo hall, the adults formed a circle around them while Nicholas drummed and sang, and Lyons recited poems as a community elder performed a smudging ceremony.

While the Canadian and New Brunswick governments lowered flags to half-mast and made statements addressing the horror surrounding the discovery in Kamloops, Paul said talking is not enough. He said Canada’s indigenous people heard the exact words for generations, but no one ever takes action.

He said Premier Blaine Higgs cares nothing about aboriginal rights in New Brunswick, noting his actions show a “blatant disregard” for their needs.

The chief said he’s sat in numerous meetings with provincial officials, and the New Brunswick government’s lack of understanding and willingness to support First Nation growth is evident.

Paul said he hoped New Brunswick Aborigi-

nal Affairs Minister Arlene Dunn would bring a new willingness to work with Native leaders. Still, he doubts she’ll change the Higgs’ government’s combative attitude.

Paul said it’s upsetting to see Dunn opposing the federal government’s Bill C-15, which proposes the harmonization of Canadian Law with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, as it’s debated in the Senate.

The Woodstock chief said the federal government must step forward as well, noting its failure to address any of the more than 90 recommendations put forward in the Truth and Reconciliation Report.

While he hopes the uncovered tragedy in Kamloops would be a wakeup call for all levels of government, he remains unconvinced it will make a difference.

Paul said his best hope is that the younger generation of Canadians can recognize the past atrocities and show determination to right the wrongs of the past and pave a better road for Canada’s indigenous people.

Woodstock First Nation’s Bonnie Polchies speaks to the more than 60 people attending the ceremony honouring the 215 children found buried on the grounds of a former residential school in Kamloops, BC. See more photos of the ceremony on page 10. (Jim Dumville photo)

Call with news tips and story ideas!

Email details to: jim@rivervalleysun.ca

REMEMBER:

Here are the numbers to call:

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

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

Help for DRUG ADDICTION

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Crimestoppers: 1-800-222-8477

Animal Control

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

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

IN CRISIS?

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

River Valley Sun: Box 1000, Woodstock, NB, E7M 0E9, (506) 325-2552 Local Journalism Initiative Reporter: Jim Dumville, (506) 325-8523, jim@rivervalleysun.ca Publisher/Managing Editor: Theresa Blackburn, (506) 324-5700, theresa@rivervalleysun.ca Publisher/Distribution Manager: Stephen Chisholm (506) 324-5711 www.rivervalleysun.ca ISSN # 2562-3893 *Unauthorized bulk removal of the River Valley Sun from any public location, or tampering with our distribution, including unauthorized inserts, is prohibited.

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The Carleton Manor Foundation Board of Directors want to thank the many wonderful sponsors of our 13th Annual Lobsterfest! Due to COVID-19, we were forced to cancel our 2020 Lobsterfest, but were able to resurrect it this year in a different form and with a lot of help. Our hearts are full with the generosity of each and every sponsor, as well as those who bought the 350 tickets. We appreciate your support and hope that you enjoyed your lobster dinners. Your generous contributions and support of the Carleton Manor Foundation allows us to enrich the lives of those who call Carleton Manor home.

Diamond Level Sponsorship

White’s Precast Concrete (1995) Ltd. Dr. Sharon Wagener Prof. Corp.

Newnham and Slipp Pharmacy McLellan BrandSource Lenehan Properties Crop Exchange Inc. Connell Chrysler

Platinum Level Sponsorship

Bronze Level Sponsorship

Anonymous Donor Dwight and Fay Fraser Byron and Loretta McGrath McConnell Transport Wonder Muffler Pharmacy for Life

Brennan Farms Sticks and Stones Landscaping Buntings Grocery

Gold Level Sponsorship Re/Max Hartford Realty Exit Realty Platinum Craig Manufacturing The Medicine Shoppe Kevin and Michelle Floyd Chance and Katie McGrath

Silver Level Sponsorship

Covey Basics Stockford Reefer Services CYV Chevrolet Buick GMC Ltd. Richwill Truck Centre Ltd. G & C Culberson Greg MacPherson/Manulife Securities L & M Ventures Ltd. E.M. Cummings John’s Flooring Services Ltd. Ironwood Manufactured Homes Carleton Manor Foundation Members Susan Hayden, Chair Barb Underhill, Treasurer Heather Pemberton, Secretary Scott Green, Member/Administrator Mark Gaddas, Member Scott Dunlop, Member Roy Culberson, Member Joy Hanson, Member Cindy Kimball, Member John McLellan, Member

Anonymous Donor E.Cummings Construction Kent Building Supplies Vail Trucking

Sign Sponsorship

Carquest Autoparts M. Perley Prof. Corp.

Community Metal Quality Mini Barns Sharpe’s Auto Salvage Valley Refrigeration Greater Woodstock Chamber of Commerce

A huge thank you also goes out to:

Home Zone Electronics for their sound system and video presentation help, the Neighbours at Carleton Manor and Loretta Clark and her Manor staff, Dan Parish, and Kamden Graphics, as well as all the volunteers who assisted us on the drive-thru day. We couldn’t have done it without you!

Carleton Manor’s mission is to provide quality, long-term care and support services to the community, while promoting an environment of optimum wellness and dignity. On behalf of the entire team at Carleton Manor and those we serve, thank you so much for your generous support.

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Woodstock Police Force using latest technology Protecting and serving with help from modern resources

By Jim Dumville - Local Journalism Initiative Reporter While Woodstock Police Force remains one of the few small-town municipal forces still operating in New Brunswick, it’s not taking a backseat to anyone in aspects of equipment, technology and service to the community.

Chief Gary Forward said the support from the town council and the provincial government ensures the Woodstock force can stay abreast of the latest advancements in police services.

A new police cruiser, the up-to-date computer technology in the entire Woodstock Police Force fleet, and the officers’ body-worn cameras attest to the most recent upgrades in the department’s equipment.

The chief said the foresight of the mayor and council to include the necessary capital funding to keep the police cruiser fleet up to date allowed for the recent purchase of a new Dodge Durango.

Forward said the new high-end computer technology in the Durango and all WPF cruisers resulted from a pilot project offered through the provincial government.

He said he’s “grateful” to Woodstock council members and the New

Brunswick Department of Public Safety for the support.

Woodstock Mayor Art Slipp and Coun. Randy Leonard, chair of the town’s protective services committee, joined Chief Forward and Cst. Dale Pollock on May 25 to unveil the force’s newest equipment.

“The onboard technology is a significant upgrade,” said Slipp.

He added that the council, over the years, attempted to ensure the town’s capital budget provided the funding needed to keep the force’s fleet and other equipment up to date.

Leonard said he was impressed by the new cruiser and equipment, adding Woodstock residents enjoy the benefits of having a well-equipped, highly trained and efficient police force of its own.

Forward praised the working relationship the force enjoys with town administration and council.

Cst. Pollock said the cruisers’ onboard technology gives all officers a mobile office. He said an on-duty officer could do almost everything inside the vehicle, whether completing reports or seeking information.

Pollock said the tech-

nology allows Woodstock officers to be on the streets patrolling the town rather than spending hours doing paperwork at the office.

“This will be our office,” he said, pointing to the laptop. “People want to see police on the road.”

Pollock said on-duty officers could park anywhere to do their paperwork while keeping an eye on activities around town.

Personally, he said, he wants to spend more time in the community and the least time possible at the station.

Pollock said the onboard technology includes a scanner and printer and opens the door for e-ticketing. He said if an officer issues a ticket, the computer automatically sends copies to the police office, the court, the motor vehicle branch and the offender.

The cruisers’ technological upgrades come on the heels of last fall’s introduction of body-worn cameras to all on-duty officers.

Forward said the cameras benefit both the officers and members of the public with whom they interact.

Most importantly, said Forward, the cameras and new equipment enhance the force’s ability to protect and serve Woodstock residents and visitors.

Cst. Dale Pollock sits in the driver’s seat of the Woodstock Police Force’s new Dodge Durango. (Jim Dumville photo)

Woodstock RibFest

July 9, 10 & 11 Texas Rangers & Crabby’s BBQ return!

Join us Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

RibFest supports the Living Beyond Cancer Peer Support Group, the River Valley Cancer Support Group, and the John T. MacMillan Foundation.

Join us for this Drive-Thru event, with free admission and donation buckets at the entrance!

Cst. Dale Pollock, left, stands in front of Woodstock Police Force’s new Dodge Durango with Mayor Art Slipp, centre, and Coun. Randy Leonard, chair of the town’s protective services committee. (Jim Dumville photo)

Get the latest information and event details on their Facebook page – WoodstockNBribs

Woodstock, NB (506) 328-0096 www.coreyhyundai.ca Even with social distancing, it is always a FUN DAY at Corey Hyundai!

* Visit www.coreyhyundai.ca for details! *

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5

Off-road meeting attracts big crowd, plenty of views Ad hoc committee hears pros and cons about draft report

By Jim Dumville - Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A

large crowd filled the AYR Motor Centre’s Gallery Room to a nearmaximum level under COVID-19 restrictions Thursday evening, May 27, to exchange passionate but respectful views on the use of off-road vehicles within Woodstock town limits.

At the heart of the debate was the current illegal use of ATVs, sideby-sides and dirt bikes on the Trans Canada Trail running parallel to the St. John River between Woodstock’s southern and northern boundaries. The trail runs through downtown Woodstock, across the Meduxnekeag Walking Bridge.

The corresponding debate surrounded the wisdom of providing off-road enthusiasts legal access to town streets to connect to restaurants, gas stations and other venues within Woodstock.

Woodstock Police Chief Gary Forward, Town Development Officer Andrew Garnett and Tourism and Community Events Director Tobi Pirie, who formed the Off-Road Vehicle Strategic Review Committee in July 2020, hosted the meeting.

After a year of research, the committee released a draft review, which provided the primary talking points for the May 27 public meeting. Chief Forward explained the committee’s mandate is to deliver a report to the CAO, Ken Anthony, who, in turn, will share it, with recommendations, to the mayor and council, who will make the final decisions of bylaws covering off-road vehicles use within the town.

Both Pirie and Chief Forward described their participation on the ad hoc committee as “a learning experience.”

Forward reiterated a point included in the draft introduction that “enforcement challenges” are central to any rules and

regulations surrounding off-road-vehicle usage.

He explained police fielded numerous complaints about ATVs and dirt bikes speeding along town streets and trails were, in many cases, a result of drivers racing to avoid or get away from police enforcement.

“If not worried about fines, would they be more respectful,” Forward asked rhetorically.

On the other hand, the chief said that police must consider the increasing number of residents’ complaints about the noise and danger presented by the wheelers and illegal bikes on streets and the trail.

Several speakers took the podium during the event offering viewpoints spanning several options.

Many, especially a significant number of residents living near the river and Trans Canada Trail, strongly expressed the need to ensure the trail remains for the use of walkers and bikers only.

Off-road vehicle owners and operators argued multi-use trails work, pointing out that most drivers respect other trail users by slowing or even stopping for pedestrians.

While most speakers seemed to support at least limited use of town streets, a few suggested the mingling of regular vehicle traffic with ATVs, side-bysides and dirt bikes could create danger and liability issues.

Dwayne Atherton, who made multiple trips to the podium, pushed the idea of a compromise to satisfy everyone. He narrowed his point to a single statement he repeated several times.

“If you open up Main Street, there’d be no need to use the trail,” he said.

While many New Brunswick towns and villages provide access to streets for off-road vehicle operators to reach businesses, Forward ex-

plained, it depends on riders adhering to the rules and safety requirements.

He explained the committee offered such an option in its draft report. Forward also expressed his view that police reaction to any implemented changes requires an education period.

For example, the chief said that officers’ initial response to potential rulebreaking riders would be to educate them about the rules.

In the meantime, as the committee, the CAO and town council seek answers, many residents said legal trail users and area residents grow frustrated with the illegal activities of ATVers and bikers.

Sue Dymond, who lives right next to the trail on the southside of town, said it’s a daily frustration from early spring to late fall.

“Every night at 10 o’clock, that’s when it starts,” she said. “And it goes all night. The people that really get to know the problem are the people that live along the trail.”

Janice King, who also lives along the trail and uses it for walking, also pointed out the constant motorized traffic.

“It’s my understanding the Trans Canada Trail is for walkers,” she said.

King also noted the significant increase in traffic since the town removed the barriers limiting motorized access.

Quad and ATV Club members and avid offroad enthusiasts emphasized the sport’s significant recreation and economic benefits, adding most club members recognize the importance of being respectful to others.

Some stressed the tourist benefits for communities welcoming off-road groups or hosting rallies.

They explained providing access to restaurants, hotels, gas stations, and other retailers brings thousands of dollars into local

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

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

Woodstock Police Chief Gary Forward, left, and Development Officer Andrew Garnett listen to views of a large audience in attendance for Off-Road-Vehicle public forum on May 27. (Jim Dumville photo)

business coffers.

Lower Woodstock resident Don Calhoun, who said he’s been wheeling since the mid-’90s, stressed that almost all enthusiasts he’s met over the years share a great respect for each other, landowners and other trail users.

Unfortunately, he said, the focus always goes to the few rule-breakers “We don’t report the good news,” Calhoun said.

He suggested the most significant issues in the ongoing debate should be “education” and “respect.”

Later in the meeting, Forward addressed those issues, noting he was “very much in favour of education.”

“But we’re always going to have a segment of society that won’t follow the rules,” Forward said.

The chief said regardless of what bylaws the council adopts, the offroad community must, in many ways, “police itself.”

Forward said police would work with the offroad enthusiasts, but it can’t be chasing down fleeing machines.

“We just want to drive up to a person or an ATV or side-by-side to have a conversation,” he said.

Joining Forward, Pirie and Garnett at the head table were Dean Murdock and Jason Henderson of the off-road enforcement.

They explained their role focuses on the trails, but they work in partnership with other police forces, including the Woodstock Police Force.

Following the more than a dozen presentations and a series of viewpoints, Ken Kinney, the New Brunswick manager

of Crown Land Planning, emerged from the audience to take the podium.

He said his department oversees all Crown land, including the old rail beds, which serve as the approximately 1,100 kilometres of trails throughout the province.

Kinney said the Trans Canada Trail through Woodstock is part of that network of trails.

He said his department has a maintenance budget, a capital budget and oversight of applications for recreational trail use.

He said a majority of the trails in question fall under the Parks Act. Kinney clarified the Trans Canada Trail through Woodstock is not authorized for motorized use. He said the department has a process to hear any applications to change the use of trails.

Kinney said the department would not authorize motorized traffic on a trail such as Woodstock’s “without solid discussion and council ratification.”

“If council wants motorized vehicles on the trail,” he said, “they have to bring it to us.”

As for street use of off-road vehicles, Kinney said, such plans require approval from the Department of Public Safety and accepted safety rules put in place through a partnership with the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure.

Kinney took a moment to address the recent removal of barriers from the Woodstock walking trail, agreeing a question of liability exists surrounding the potential of injury.

He added such barriers offer only limited effec-

tiveness. Providing space for bikes and strollers, he said, provides a path for bikes and strollers. Other off-road vehicle operators often find a way around the barriers.

Garnett thanked everyone for attending the open house, saying the committee heard many “pros and cons.”

He said the committee would use input from Thursday’s meeting to tweak their draft report before presenting it to the mayor and council.

While the May 27 meeting discussed the use of ATVs, side-by-sides or dirt bike on the Trans Canada Trail and town streets, both remain off-limits until council approves any regulation changes.

On June 11, the town issued a statement reiterating that point. It states as follows: “The Woodstock Police Force has received complaints about ATV and Side-by-Side traffic on Town roads and an increase of motorized activity on Town trails by drivers who believe the ATV/ORV pilot project has gone into effect.

“Please note that this is not the case. The committee remains in the process of gathering information for submission and consideration by the mayor and council.

“Until then, the Woodstock Police Force and agency partners will continue to patrol, educate, and enforce applicable statutes toward anyone found to be in violation. We thank you for your patience and support as we work together to address this important public safety matter.”

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Staff, expectant moms praise URVH Foundation’s latest gifts

Fetal heart-rate monitor and Panda warmer improve care for mother and baby

By Jim Dumville - Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

T

he Upper River Valley Hospital in Waterville recently added two examples of the latest technology in obstetric care, benefiting expectant moms, struggling newborns and the staff members who care for both.

Thanks to the ongoing fundraising efforts of the URVH Foundation and the generosity of anonymous donors, the hospital now has a fetal heart-rate monitor and a modern Panda infant warmer at their fingertips when required.

Obstetrics nurse manager Andrea Kilfoil said the new equipment delivers a huge impact on the staff’s ability to “improve the level of care we can provide for our moms and babies.”

In a letter thanking the generous donors who made the equipment purchase possible, Kilfoil outlined its benefits for the Labour & Birth team and their patients.

She explained the Panda warmer does much more than keep a struggling newborn warm.

“The Panda warmer has a built-in scale which allows us to weigh a baby quickly and keep them warm at the same time during a resuscitation,” Kilfoil explained.

She explained that it allows medical staff to know the amount of medication the baby needs. Before the Panda warmer, Kilfoil said, their options were to estimate the baby’s weight or move the newborn, risking the loss of vital body heat.

Kilfoil said the advanced warmer includes

a built-in option to provide PPV (positive pressure ventilation) and CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) for breathing assistance.

In the past, she said, the delivery staff brought a portable unit into the delivery or operating room, taking up valuable space when resuscitation was in progress.

Kilfoil said the Panda warmer has a monitor screen displaying the infant’s vitals, including weight, at all times. The information it provides includes the child’s Apgar score, a method for determining an infant’s condition at birth by scoring the heart rate, respiratory effort, muscle tone, reflex irritability and colour.

The baby’s oxygen saturation, temperature and heart rate are on display.

Kilfoil said staff could shut down alarms with a mere wave of the hand.

She added the Panda warmer includes a portable light which becomes a valuable tool when the infant requires an IV. “Fortunately, we do not need all these options often, but when we do, everything is at our fingertips,” she said.

Kilfoil said the wireless heart monitor was on the URVH staff’s wishlist for years.

“My staff literally squealed with delight when it arrived,” she said.

Kilfoil said the new heart monitor already provided a positive impact on labour patients.

“Before we had the

The wireless Fetal Heath Monitor allows patients to walk around the hospital unit rather than being confined to a bed. (Photo courtesy URVH)

wireless monitor,” she explained, “moms that needed continuous monitoring were confined to their bed, chair or birthing ball tethered to a nearby monitor.”

Kilfoil said for an expectant mother who must remain attached to the stationary monitor, getting in the tub was not an option.

“Labour is much harder to cope with when you are unable to walk or get in the tub for pain control,” she said.

URVH obstetric patients already have firsthand knowledge of the benefits of wireless fetal heart monitoring equipment.

One patient, who was in the hospital giving birth to her third child, explained the benefits.

“My first two labours were low risk, and I was able to transition between labouring positions without worry of my baby’s heart rate being constantly monitored,” she said. “However, that was not the case for baby number three.”

When informed by her care team the baby’s heart rate required constant monitoring, she said the thought of being confined to bed “terrified” her.

“I was so relieved to have the opportunity to wear the wireless fetal heart monitor system and be able to progress through labour freely in a variety of positions, including the whirlpool tub while ensuring the safety of our little one,” the mother of three said.

Another patient said the monitor worked amazingly during her bath, and she appreciated the ability to walk the halls knowing her baby’s heart rate remained constantly monitored by staff.

L & B nurses Marissa McCully and Ginette Godreau quickly discovered the benefits of the wireless monitor for both the patient and staff’s ability to care for and comfort the expectant mother.

Within a week of its arrival at URVH, McCully said, she used the monitor twice.

“The first benefit of the wireless system is the safety of continuous fetal monitoring no matter the mother’s preferred position,” she said. “For example, while using the induction medication oxytocin, I was able to provide continuous EFM (electronic fetal monitoring) with the patient

relaxing in the tub.”

She said the system allows EFM regardless of the patient’s position. Because it’s cordless, McCully added, it decreases tangled wires and allows more time to provide oneon-one care with the patient and monitor the baby.

Godreau expressed the excitement she felt when the system arrived. She said a stand-out example of the system’s benefits is a recent mother who required a c-section.

“We were able to continue the monitoring on the way to the OR and during the entire time that the OR staff were preparing the patient for surgery,” Godreau said. “The OR staff really thought that the wireless monitoring was so much safer for the baby and increased our level of care without compromising room in the OR or the sterility. We can’t say enough what this piece of equipment means to us and our patients.”

The Panda warming bed and the wireless fetal

heart monitor are the latest in a long list of the most upto-date medical equipment the URVH Foundation and donors provided the hospital, staff and patients since the foundation reignited the community generosity

just over two years ago.

Board chair Dr. Wayne McLaughlin and Vice Chair Dr. Bill Mutrie said the foundation board has other plans in the works to enhance URVH’s level of care.

Upper River Valley Hospital Labour and Birth staff use the Panda infant warmer. (Photo courtesy URVH)

CELEBRATE CANADA DAY WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Thursday, July 1st Town of Woodstock For Event Listings Visit www.town.woodstock.nb.ca Don’t forget to share your Canada Day activities with us socially on Facebook at WoodstockNBTourism

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA

7

The end of an era and the start of something new at the River Valley Sun

My Thoughts Exactly

Y

By Jim Dumville

ou’re reading the last My Thoughts Exactly in the River Valley Sun, at least for the foreseeable future. But, fear not, neither I nor this paper is going anywhere. I’m changing my role. And, the RVS is enhancing its role.

Starting immediately, the River Valley Sun will become part of the nationwide Local Journalism Initiative, and I’m proud to be the Sun’s LJI reporter. In an effort to promote local journalism across the country, the Canadian government provided funding to support journalism in under-represented communities. The funds are managed by News Media Canada, which approved the Sun’s application to join the initiative.

Through the LJI program, the stories I write for the RVS audience will be available to fellow LJI publications across Canada. In reverse, the RVS has access to LJI stories nationwide. For example, a recent article I wrote about the excellent effort by the Bath Lions Club to raise funds for the Ronald McDonald House in Halifax ended up on the Toronto Sun webpage.

As a result of the changes, instead of doing everything from delivering the papers to writing and editing copy on a part-time level, I will become a full-time LJI reporter. Although to be fair, I still plan to participate in doing deliveries. I enjoy

the constant positive feedback coming my way. Plus, everyone who knows me knows I need exercise.

By the way, before I go any further, it is essential to understand my actions at the RVS pale compared to the effort, dedication and commitment of Theresa and Stephen Chisholm. Every time you turn a page of the River Valley Sun, you see Theresa’s stories, editing, ads she sold and built, and layout, which is 100 per cent hers. She and Stephen are the businesspeople, looking after accounting, administration, and the many more tasks associated with operating a small business.

Funding through Media Canada will allow the addition of some administrative support, but more importantly to the readers, it will see us hire freelancers to broaden and expand our coverage. Much of the thanks for these exciting times goes to the loyal readers of our print edition and followers of our Facebook page.

Theresa and Stephen launched the River Valley Sun with a clear goal and mandate in mind. They wanted it to be a free newspaper for the community, about the community, and promoting the community.

It was my good fortune, they asked me, on a part-time basis, to join them as managing editor. That meant writing stories, covering events, editing copy from columnists and correspondence. And, of course, once a month sharing My Thoughts Exactly.

The River Valley Sun was never designed, nor will it be, to compete with other media outlets serving our area. We have a specific mandate, as do the other journalists serving our region. It’s vital to have a diverse perspective in news coverage and community promotion.

Over the past two-plus years, the Sun’s popularity, both in print and on our Facebook site, proved overwhelming and highly appreciated but not surprising. We knew from the start, the Upper

River Valley region we served wanted an ultra-focused news option.

In my new role, I’ll give greater coverage to events and happenings throughout the region. In addition, I will be able to pursue more in-depth reporting on the people, places and history which create such a vibrant community.

Unfortunately, my new role doesn’t allow me to write opinion columns, and it’s understandable. My job is to provide unbiased coverage of the news. While the RVS puts less focus on hard news than some other outlets, I recognize the ethical challenge of being a reporter and opinion writer in the same publication.

I write the final sentences of My Thoughts Exactly in the River Valley Sun with a heavy heart. The column dates back to my early days at the Bugle. After several years of writing it, it, too, disappeared from those pages for the same reasons it disappears today.

My Thoughts Exactly provide a special forum for me to relate thoughts about the state of the world or my challenges.

It provided a vehicle to reflect on memories or share views on people, places

and events which shape my world past, present and future.

I want to thank readers of this column, many of whom brightened my day with positive reactions. But, in truth, I also welcomed criticism, alternative views and enlightening facts. As I have long told reporters under my guidance who became upset by negative feedback, take criticism as a positive. At least they are reading you and care enough to respond.

So long, faithful readers of this column . Join us in celebrating another step forward in the RVS evolution. Plus, I’m certain the musings I have expressed in My Thoughts Exactly will be shared in the wonderful conversations I expect to have when I get to visit with our readers while covering meetings and events throughout western New Brunswick.

Jim Dumville is a passionate journalist who lives in Woodstock. Jim is now the full-time Local Journalism Initiative Reporter for the River Valley Sun.

FREELANCERS WANTED FOR THE RIVER VALLEY SUN

We are looking for paid freelancers in the Perth-Andover and Nackawic area. If you are passionate about your community and writing, please send your resume and examples of your work to theresa@rivervalleysun.ca

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Life through the eyes of Ivy

9

Despite struggles from rare disease, Debec girl remains ‘witty and funny’

By Jim Dumville - Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

D

uring the last year and a half of wearing a mask through the COVID-19 pandemic, did you ever flash a big smile at someone before realizing no one could see it?

Debec’s Ivy Stewart, who’ll turn four in August, faces that problem daily, but without a mask.

Ivy was born with a rare neurological condition called Moebius syndrome, explains her mother, Emily Stewart. It delivers a long list of issues affecting her facial expressions, speech, breathing, mobility and more. What it doesn’t affect, at least in a negative way, said Emily, is Ivy’s enthusiastic zen for life.

Her mother explained Ivy smiles through her eyes and “is so expressive” in her body language.

“She’s so witty and funny,” she said, “her love of life becomes clear.”

Since birth, Ivy underwent a long series of medical treatments and procedures to reduce the impact of Moebius syndrome. And there’s more to come.

Emily said Moebius syndrome affects the sixth and seventh cranial nerves that control lateral eye movement and facial expressions. Ivy is unable to blink, smile, frown, grimace or other such actions.

Emily said Moebius syndrome also causes limb differences in infants. In Ivy’s case, it was a club foot.

“We have gone through multiple casts to correct her feet, and she wears special braces at night, until she is 5, to hold the correction,” she said.

Other factors creating

a severe impact on Ivy’s health include hypotonia (low muscle tone), small airways, a small mouth, short or unusually shaped tongue, difficulty feeding, and dental abnormalities.

Ivy suffers seizures, which require treatment.

They fed Ivy through a gastrostomy feeding tube for the first two years, but now she only uses it for her seizure and allergy medication.

Despite the many obstacles, Emily said, Ivy remains extroverted and happy as she enjoys daily life with her mom, father Craig, older sister Olive and younger brother Levi.

She said Ivy reaches each milestone in life with vim and vigour. She didn’t walk until she turned three, said Ivy, but now she loves being on the move with the help of her walker. However, mom added, Ivy doesn’t always use the walker’s support as expected, noting they will often see her pulling the little walker behind her.

“It’s so adorable,” Emily said.

With the help of a speech therapist, Emily said Ivy is learning to communicate despite the misshapen tongue and lack of facial muscles, which play a vital role in clear pronunciation.

Since Ivy’s birth, Emily said, “We see the power of a small community.”

She said their Debec neighbours held a fundraiser and donated funds from a craft sale.

When Ivy left daycare, people offered both emotional and financial support.

“We wouldn’t be where we are today without the love, support and guidance of this community,” Emily said.

She said during COVID-19, it became too risky for Ivy to attend daycare, especially with her narrow airways and breathing issues.

Still, she said, they try not to overprotect Ivy. While creating a safe environment for her, they let her feel some independence.

As Ivy strives to reach new milestones, her parents encourage her but try not to push her.

“We let her get there when she gets there,” Emily said.

And mom believes Ivy’s extroverted personality and love of life will take her daughter a long way as she grows.

Emily said one reason she wanted to share Ivy’s story was to bring awareness to Moebius syndrome.

While rare, researchers estimate it affects between 1 in 50,000 to 1 in 500,000 newborns.

Emily said Moebius Syndrome Awareness Day is Jan. 24.

Meanwhile, Ivy continues to thrive in Debec despite many treatments and many trips to doctors and hospitals, including the IWK Children’s Hospital in Halifax.

Emily and Craig know many more trials, trips and treatments lay ahead. They know Ivy is up to the challenge. They can see it in her eyes.

“She is strong, resilient, silly, smart and beautiful,” said Ivy’s proud mom.

Above: The Stewarts pose for a family portrait, with parents Emily and Craig, and children, from left, Olive, Ivy and Levi.

Right: Ivy Stewart, who lives with Moebius syndrome. The condition causes limb differences (she has a club foot), and affects the sixth and seventh cranial nerves that control eye movement and facial expressions. Ivy is unable to blink, smile, frown, or grimace, but that doesn’t impact her zest for life. (Submitted photos)

Be more like Evan

Memorial scholarship gets $15,000 boost from MCS Lightning Inc.

By Theresa Blackburn

T

he Evan Graham Memorial Scholarship fund, started by the family of the late Evan Graham, got a big boost from Evan’s former classmates.

Lightning Inc. is Meduxnekeag Consolidated’s middle school entrepreneurship program.

This year, students started companies and made products to sell, with the goal to donate all profits to the scholarship named for their friend. They held their year-end sale on May 28. More than 100 people turned out to purchase various homemade items, from cookbooks to Silly

Socks in a Box. Evan Graham died in an ATV accident in 2020.

His death has left a void in his family, but also at his former school.

“His entire family is here tonight,” said Meduxnekeag Consolidated Vice Principal Angela Stephenson at the sale.

“We’ve been working all year,” said teacher Andrea Bell, who led the entrepreneurship program for ten middle school classes.

“The classes have been getting together once a week and learning about business,” explained Bell.

In the end, ten items were produced and sold at the market. Everything sold

out. Thanks to a generous donation of $5,000 by a donor who wished to remain anonymous, Lightning Inc. raised an astounding $15,000.

“The family is being presented with a cheque on June 16,” said Stephenson, just before press time on June 14. “We’ll be broadcasting it live on our Facebook page. We haven’t told them the total yet. We want it to be a surprise.”

Read about the Evan Graham Memorial Scholarship and how his classmates are remembering him in the summer issue of agelessNB magazine coming out in July.

Meduxnekeag Consolidated School held an outdoor market to sell items created under their middle school business, Lightning Inc. Students raised $15,000 in honour of their late classmate, Evan Graham. (Theresa Blackburn photo)

10

’ TAKONUTOMAKONUWAL

(Maliseet word meaning ‘their stories’)

News and Features from Woodstock First Nation

Honouring the lives of 215 indigenous children found in Kamloops People gather to mourn at an emotional Woodstock First Nation ceremony

An emotional Woodstock First Nation Chief Tim Paul speaks at the ceremony held at the Eagle’s Nest. (Jim Dumville photo)

One of the more than 215 pairs of shoes playing tribute to the 215 lost children. (Jim Dumville photo)

Celebrating Indigenous Day Woodstock First Nation is celebrating Indigenous Day with a children’s parade. Entrants have the opportunity to win cash and prizes. The event takes place on Saturday, June 19. There is no requirement to register in advance. WFN entrants should line up at 11 a.m. at the Eagles Nest parking lot, with the parade staring at noon.

A smudging ceremony was part of the Woodstock First Nation event, Monday evening. Ashley Gillespie is pictured here smudging the children in attendance with sage. (Jim Dumville photo)

Adult float prizes: 1st place $300 2nd place $200 3rd place $100 Children’s float prizes: 1st place $100 2nd place $75 3rd place $50 There will be a membership barbecue of hot dogs and hamburgers will take place following the parade at the Eagles Nest. WFN members can fill out a ballot for cash prizes ($100, $50 & $25)

POSTER CONTEST

Anatasha Lyons and drummer Charlie Nicholas deliver drumming, songs and spoken word during the moving ceremony. (Jim Dumville photo)

WFN Healthy Hampers HOW TO BECOME A PART OF THE PROGRAM

The WFN Healthy Hamper Program is a bulk-buying initiative that allows people to get a large bag full of produce, once a month, for a lot less than you’d buy the goods in stores! To learn more or sign up, email Holly Polchies at hollypolchies@ yahoo.ca to get all the information you need to join!

There is also an Emergency Preparedness Poster Contest for children to enter with cash prizes being awarded. Parents are encouraged to help their children understand what it means to be prepared for an emergency or disaster and to illustrate it and enter the contest. Take a picture of their posters and upload it to the WFN facebook page. Entries must be in by the parade day! Fpr ages 5-6, one prize of $100, for ages 7-9, one prize of $100, for ages 10-12, one prize of $100, for ages 13-15, one prize of $100, and for ages 16-18, one prize of $100. For more information, contact the WFN Health Centre at (506) 325-3570.

RCMP arrest man at centre of manhunt

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 11

Search followed a pair of shooting incidents near Tobique Narrows RIVER VALLEY SUN

I

n a media release Sunday evening, June 13, New Brunswick RCMP announced the arrest of the man who was at the centre of an extensive police search in northwestern New Brunswick.

They said police made the arrest, along with two other people, in Fredericton.

While RCMP did not name the man arrested in its Sunday media release, the RCMP issued an Alert Ready for the Perth-Andover, Tobique Narrows and Plaster Rock area on June 11, announcing the shooting incidents and asking residents to remain inside their homes.

They later stated in a release that officers were searching for Stephen Perley Jr., who they described as armed and dangerous.

Meanwhile, the Sunday release said, police charged a second man in connection with a shooting incident involving police.

On June 13, 21-yearold McKenzie Moir of Bloomfield Ridge appeared in court via teleremand to face charges of one count of discharging a firearm with intent, the RCMP release explained.

Police said they remanded Moir in custody pending an appearance in Woodstock Provincial Court on June 14 at 10 a.m.

The weekend search began Friday evening.

On Friday, June 11, around 7:05 p.m., New Brunswick RCMP reported, members of the West District RCMP responded to a complaint in Medford, north of Tobique Narrows.

The release said police received information that a man had pointed a firearm towards at least one person and discharged the gun in the presence of several people, including a young child. The man fled the scene in a vehicle toward Perth-Andover.

Around 8:05 p.m., the RCMP said, police attempted to stop the suspect vehicle on Route 105 in Tobique Narrows.

Someone fired shots, striking a police vehicle, before fleeing the scene on a nearby road in a wooded area.

Based on the information known at the time of both incidents, the RCMP said it issued an Alert Ready message covering the local area to advise the public that police were searching for one man believed to be armed and dangerous.

The RCMP reported that on June 12, police located the suspect vehicle, a red Toyato Tacoma, in a ditch along Route 109 in the Tobique Narrows area while police searched for the main suspect in both shootings.

RCMP said officers took a 21-year-old man into custody at the scene.

Through information gathered during the investigation, police learned two people were in the vehicle when someone discharted a firearm at police.

Sunday’s RCMP media release stated that on June 13, shortly after 4 p.m., Fredericton Police Force, in conjunction with New Brunswick RCMP, arrested the man in the Devon neighbourhood.

Police also arrested a man and a woman at the scene.

During the weekend search surrounding a pair of shooting incidents near Tobique Narrows, police issued an Alert Ready message. The RCMP also released several photos of Stephen Perley, Jr. (RCMP photo)

Woodstock man charged with impaired driving causing death Police continue investigation into pedestrian death in Maxwell RIVER VALLEY SUN

T

he RCMP laid charges against a 25-yearold Woodstock man for impaired driving, causing death, connected to a collision between a vehicle and a pedestrian in Maxwell on May 27.

In a press release issued June 11, the West District RCMP said Wyatt Belyea faced the

charges in Woodstock provincial court on June 10.

The court remanded Belyea into custody, scheduling his return to court on July 9.

The RCMP said officers responded to a report of a collision between a vehicle and pedestrian on Route 540 in Maxwell, a rural community southwest of

Woodstock, at approximately 3:35 a.m., May 27.

A 24-year-old Woodstock woman died at the scene as a result of her injuries. She was later identified as Abigail Naomi McArthur. Police said the driver of the vehicle was not injured.

The RCMP said the investigation remains ongoing.

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12

News from in and around Nackawic

The market resumes, Participaction, and special residents

By Julie Stone

Volunteer of the Month The volunteer for June is Rebecca Crofts. Congratulations, and thank you for all that you do!

Paint the Town Red The Nackawic Area Wellness Group is challenging area residents to decorate their homes in red for Canada Day! Prizes will be given to those with the reddest decorations and the best designs.

The Market Returns The Nackawic Market will be open on June 24 from 3 to 6 p.m. It will be

situated beside the Lion’s Centre. Please drop in and see what they are selling.

Make Tracks at the Axe On Sunday, June 27, a ‘Participaction’ event will be held at the Big Axe in Nackawic. The event will run from 1 to 3 p.m. and will feature activities for all ages. Come out and join the fun!

Meet the Martins Carol and Carson Martin moved to the Nackawic Area 10 years ago and say they love it more every day. At first, they admit they weren’t very fond of the commu-

nity as they were living out in the country, and didn’t know anyone.

The Martins moved to the area when they retired from their jobs on the south shore of Montreal.

Carson’s mother was living in Nova Scotia at the time and was ageing quickly.

The Martins looked for property in Nova Scotia but could find nothing they liked. They found a listing for a log- house overlooking the Saint John River and were instantly smitten.

It did not take long for

the couple to become an active part of their community. Carol is a member of the Nackawic Area Wellness Committee and has become known as the “Cookie Grandma” with the Meals 4 U program.

Carson used to help with the ice-making at the Nackawic Curling Club and became a curler. He has had to step back from that because of an injury to his back.

He keeps busy with puttering, building sheds, flower gardens, and implements for Carol’s weaving hobby.

Top: Carol weaves on two different sized looms in a craft room that Carson helped her set up. She gives away a lot of her work or takes it to Craft shows if asked. Left: Carson has built a Geodesic Dome from scratch, which the couple use as a green house. (Submitted photos)

River Valley Cancer Support Group

Providing support to patients throughout their cancer journey

By Theresa Blackburn

T

he River Valley Cancer Support Group has a clear focus: provide support for those starting or continuing a cancer journey. Group president Adeline Appleby said she loves the organizations’ purpose.

“We’re here to help and to provide you with some financial relief.”

The group helps patients from Upper Kent to just north of Nackawic.

“Patients with a cancer diagnosis contact one of us (in the group), and they fill out one basic form. There is a bit of paperwork involved because we are a charity, so we have to keep track of where the money goes,” said Appleby.

The process from application to getting financial help is approximately two weeks.

“After diagnosis, during the first year, we give $1,000,” she said.

If patients are still in treatment in years two and three, there is more support provided.

“On average, we give to about ten people a month,” said Appleby.

“Since 2007, we’ve helped about 1,200 people.

The funds they get to distribute comes from a generous network of organizations around the region.

“We sell calendars every year, and we get funds from Curl for Cancer, Woodstock RibFest, the Carleton North Community Foundation. These

organizations are very, very supportive.”

The organization also gets help from Tim Horton’s Smile Cookie campaign and donations made in memory of people who have died.

“A lot of businesses, like, for instance, Lenehan McCain, are giving us workplace donations.

Recently the Central Carleton Nursing Home raised money through a bingo.”

Appleby believes so many people and organizations are generous because they know every penny they raise goes to patients.

“It’s for the people that are here, so businesses know it’s them helping the direct community. We find they really like that aspect

River Valley Cancer Support Group President Adeline Appleby (foreground) snaps a picture of a recent, socially-distanced meeting where a cheque for $6,500 from the Carleton North Community Foundation was presented. (Adeline Appleby photo)

of things,” said Appleby.

The group said that recently, there have been fewer requests.

“We know people out

there are in need, but with COVID, maybe some people haven’t heard about the program, so we thought we would share

some information to remind them.”

For more information or to get an application form, visit rvcsg.com.

Tobique-Mactaquac MP/ Député Richard Bragdon 1-800 -671-6160 richard.bragdon@parl.gc.ca

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Mayor excited for council table of fresh perspectives

Tracey DeMerchant looking forward to the next four years

By Theresa Blackburn

A

new council and mayor were sworn into office in Hartland at the Royal Canadian Legion on June 7. The socially distanced evening featured the swearing-in, followed by a light lunch and a chance for individual and family photos.

“This has a good feel,” said Mayor Tracey DeMerchant, only the second female to hold the position after businesswoman Betty Lou Craig was elected mayor in 1998.

“I’ve got nine years I served previous to this were good years, but this

feels fresh,” she said.

“This feels like there is a skillset here that makes me feel hopeful. With the strength we have around the table, working toward good, the boundaries are limitless.

For DeMerchant, success in leading the town won’t look like a specific program or project.

“It’s not a building; it’s not dozens of more houses. My goal is to create a greater sense of unity in our community. I think that goes into relationships with the people around the table; it goes to the relationships that move from the table to

the community. I think it’s more people in our community feeling like they are part of the community.

It’s not just the Hartland town limits.”

DeMerchant says being a service centre for surrounding areas means the community doesn’t stop where the town’s tax base ends.

“It’s LSDs, all the local municipalities, working together for the greater good. That helps us all.

We employ more people here than actually live here, so you need to think beyond your physical boundaries.”

DeMerchant says the

Pictured, from left, are councillors Michael Walton, Stewart Fairgrieve, and George Boone with Mayor Tracey DeMerchant, and councillors Lee Patterson, Jeff Doherty, and Gary Mangum. (Theresa Blackburn photo)

out-of-town employees provide the municipality with the motivation to be inclusive when it comes to opportunities.

“I just see just great potential of making what

we have stronger. If we build the community bigger, that’s great, too, but it’s making what we have now stronger. That’s also important.”

DeMarchant is the only

woman on council this term. Joining her around the table are Michael Walton, Stewart Fairgrieve, George Boone, Lee Patterson, Jeff Doherty, and Gary Magnum.

On the Path to Green

New Brunswickers hope to put COVID-19 behind them by N.B. Day

By Jim Dumville - Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

T

he final destination of the path to green is in sight for New Brunswickers, with the first of three phases set to begin. In fact, by the time you’re reading this, it may already be underway.

During its Monday, June 14, COVID update, Public Health reported that 74.8 percent of New Brunswick residents 12 and over received vaccines. With 75 per cent the goal, the province is set to begin lifting restrictions any day.

“We are on the cusp on moving to phase one of the Path to Green,” said Dr. Jennifer Russell, chief medical officer of health, on June 7.

Premier Blaine Higgs said at a press conference on that date that health of-

ficials remain confident the province would hit the second crucial dates of Canada Day. The first phase began when 75 per cent of New Brunswick over 12 received at least one vaccine dose, and the number of cases and hospitalizations do not increase. Then the province would begin lifting some restrictions, including: *No isolation or testing will be required for those travelling to New Brunswick from Atlantic Canada and the Avignon and Témiscouata regions of Quebec, with the exception of Nova Scotia. *Compassionate travel will be permitted with isolation and testing requirements in place. Cross border com-

muters and truck drivers will no longer be subject to testing and isolation requirements. *Other workers, including rotational workers, travelling outside of Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Avignon, and Témiscouata will be required to isolate and take a COVID-19 test between days five and seven before they can discontinue isolation, unless they have an existing work-isolation plan. *Contact with all family and friends will be permitted, and restrictions will be loosened for indoor and outdoor gatherings. *Organized sporting activities will be permitted but restricted to teams based in Newfoundland and Labra-

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dor, Prince Edward Island, Avignon and Témiscouata. *Faith gatherings can take place with a maximum 50 per cent venue capacity and with the choir at least four metres from the congregation.

Canada Day, which set a goal of 75 per cent with one dose and 20 per cent with the second, will signify the significant second step on the Path to Green for New Brunswickers. At that point, lifting further restrictions would allow more Canadians to move in and out of the province. Lifted restrictions include the following: *Travel registration will no longer be required for those in the Atlantic provinces, including Nova Scotia, or in Avignon and Témiscouata.

*Canadian travellers, as well as travellers from Maine, who have had at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, will be permitted into the province without needing to isolate. *Canadian travellers, as well as travellers from Maine, who have not been vaccinated will be permitted to enter the province but will be subject to testing and isolation requirements. *Businesses including restaurants, gyms and salons will be permitted to operate at regular capacity as long as they maintain a contact list of clients. *Games and sporting competitions with teams based outside of Atlantic Canada will be permitted, subject to travel requirements. *Beginning July 1, addition-

al health and safety guidelines developed to respond to the pandemic will be relaxed for early learning and child-care facilities, with a full return to normal operations anticipated by Aug. 1.

The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development will contact operators in the coming weeks to provide more information and to organize question and answer sessions.

On New Brunswick Day, Aug. 2, if vaccination levels reach 75 per cent of New Brunswickers with two doses, the province would return to green. Health Minister Dorothy Shephard said, the province hopes to lift the emergency order and all restrictions that day, including mask wearing.

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PARTIAL ECLIPSE

Earth-Moon, the Double Planet NIGHT SKY

By David Hunter

O

ne speaks of the Earth, our home, and its ‘moon’, the Moon. However if one considers the relative sizes of the other solar system planets to their moons, the Earth and its moon really are like a double planet.

The moon’s diameter, 3,474 km, is 27 per cent that of the Earth’s. Jupiter, the largest planet, has four large moons (and many more small ones), but they are small compared to Jupiter. Ganymede, the largest of Jupiter’s moons, is slightly larger than our moon, but it is only about four per cent the size of Jupiter.

In other words, the moon is comparable in size to the Earth and could really be considered a planet.

Pluto, having a diameter 2,376 km, was recently demoted from a planet to a ‘dwarf’ planet. I propose that the moon be promoted to a planet, getting us back to nine planets in the so-

David Hunter shows a projection image of the partial eclipse on a piece of white cardboard, created by a 10 inch Dobsonian telescope,which provides a safe way to view the eclipse. (Sandy Hunter photo)

lar system! The Earth and moon revolve around the sun through a common centre, called the barycentre (centre of mass). The barycentre is about threequarters of the way from Earth’s centre or about 1,700 km below the Earth’s surface.

Astronomers have long recognized the importance of the Moon in allowing life to flourish on Earth. The moon keeps the Earth’s axis of rotation stable at around 23 ½ deg with respect to its orbit around the sun, giving the Earth stable seasons and climate. If it were not for the moon, the Earth’s axis of rotation would drift by large amounts through time causing climatic hay-

wire as the polar axis would periodically point directly towards/away from the sun.

Be thankful we have such a wonderful ‘moon’.

To quote Genesis “As long as the earth endures, seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night will never cease”.

By comparison it is known that Mars, which does not have a large stabilizing moon, has had its polar axis periodically point fairly directly at the sun which caused huge climatic shifts and havoc on Mars.

Another amazing ‘accident’ exists concerning the apparent sizes of the moon and the sun and the distance of the Earth from

A projection image of the partial eclipse at sunrise, including the trees in the distant horizon about 4-5 km away. A six inch Newtonian telescope safely projected the image. (David Hunter photo)

the Sun. The sun has 400 times the diameter of the moon but the sun is ~ 400 times farther from the Earth than the moon.

This means the apparent size of the moon and sun are nearly identical!

This allows beautiful solar eclipses to happen on Earth. We just witnessed a partial solar eclipse on Thursday morning, June 10. Please see the accompanying collage of photos!

Now in fact the moon’s orbit around the Earth is slightly elliptical (not circular) and the Earth’s orbit around the sun is also slightly elliptical. This means the apparent relative sizes of both the moon and sun as seen on Earth

change slightly as the Earth and moon move in their orbits.

Sometimes the moon appears bigger than the sun, while at other times the moon can appear slightly smaller than the sun. In the former case a total solar eclipse can happen, if one is on the centreline of the eclipse path. Contrariwise, when the moon appears smaller than the sun, an annular solar eclipse is observed on the eclipse centreline. In an annular solar eclipse, a so-called ‘ring of fire’ is seen around the moon at maximum eclipse.

It was just this type of annular eclipse which happened on June 10 for viewers in Northern Ontario, Que-

bec and Baffin Island. In Carleton County, we were too far from the centreline to see the ring of fire and we only saw a partial eclipse.

If you got up early to watch the eclipse you may have noticed Jupiter in the morning sky towards the South East.

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

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

New Florenceville-Bristol council sworn into office

Three new councillors join returning mayor and council members

By Jim Dumville - Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

F

lorenceville-Bristol completed its changing of the guard on Tuesday, June 8, with a final goodbye to the outgoing council and the swearing-in of the new.

Mayor Karl Curtis and councillors Nancy WhyteMcCauley, David Trafford and Daniel Guest retained their seats in the May 10 election. Successful candidates Andy Saunders, Ryan Dickinson and Nancy Giggie, joined them around the table.

Guest, Giggie and Dicksonson represent Ward 1, while Whyte-McCauley, Trafford and Saunders serve Ward 2.

Before getting down to regular council business, the outgoing council met one last time to close out the longer than standard terms. COVID-19 restriction in 2020 forced New Brunswick to delay municipal elections one year.

New Brunswick Local Government Minister Daniel Allain noted the extra year of service of council

members as he thanked them in a letter Mayor Curtis read into the record. Allain also congratulated the town’s new council members, noting his department would seek their views surrounding the province’s recently released Green Paper on Local Government Reform.

Curtis acknowledged Allain’s words, telling council members the Green Paper would serve as one of their significant challenges over the next four years.

“You will hear his (Allain’s) name a lot of the coming months,” he said.

Curtis also read into the record a letter from NB Chief Electoral Officer Kim Pofferroth confirming the election results for Florenceville-Bristol.

After the adjournment of the final meeting of the outgoing council, Curtis presented a certificate of appreciation to outgoing councillor Elizabeth Campbell, who did not reoffer for her seat. The mayor said the town would also pres-

ent a certificate to former Coun. Dan McCarthy, who fell just short in his re-election bid.

Campbell said she enjoyed her time on council, while extending congratulations to returning and new council members.

Florenceville-Bristol chief administrative officer Sarah Pacey then invited the new council members to take their seats around the council table and issued the oath of office to Mayor Curtis and all six council members.

Pacey said, this time, the oath ceremony will break from the norm to maintain COVID-19 protocols. She kept social distancing while the mayor and council read their oaths. Everyone in council chambers wore masks and respected social distancing requirements.

For a complete list of council committee apointments, find an extended version of this story on the River Valley Sun Facebook page.

Mayor Karl Curtis, centre, with (from left) Ward 1 councillors Ryan Dickinson, Nancy Giggie, Daniel Guest, Curtis, and Ward 2 councillors Deputy Mayor Nancy Whyte-McCauley, David Trafford and Andy Saunders. (Jim Dumville photo)

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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 15

A ‘Cone for Emma’

Glassville giveaway celebrates special birthday RIVER VALLEY SUN

IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF

ageless New Brunswick

KIDNAPPED AT GUNPOINT

Donnie and Doreen Ritchie of Greenfield, New Brunswick, will never forget the warm night in August 1978 when they were held at gunpoint by fugitives who had just shot an RCMP officer. The couple recalls that fateful night and the chances Donnie took to ensure they lived to tell the tale.

Look for this issue on newsstands in EARLY JULY!

Every year, Kim and Brent Pearson celebrate their late daughter’s birthday with free ice cream. This year, Emma would have been 22 years old. Many enjoyed a ‘Cone for Emma’ at Meg’s Convenience in Glassville on May 26, including (from left) Alivia Connor, Cassandra Holmes, Sophia Connor, Addison Holmes, and Ben Holmes. (Megan Tower photo)

RIVER VALLEY SUN VIDEO INTERVIEWS

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

Juniper Welcoming Visitors The Juniper Community Centre is open to all ages on Thursday, Friday and Saturday. Have lunch or shop second-hand on Thursdays and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., or enjoy breakfast on Saturdays, from 8 to 11 a.m.

COVID-19 precautions are in place.

Florenceville-Bristol Congratulations Grads!

The town of Florenceville-Bristol would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication Carleton North graduates have put into their 2020-21 school year.

Best of luck wherever your dreams take you.

Outdoor Summer Market Florenceville-Bristol’s Outdoor Summer Market returns this year. Riverside Park will come alive on Thursdays in July and August from 10 a.m.to 2 p.m. Anyone interested

in being a vendor at the market should contact the town at nccc@florencevillebristol.ca or 392-6763 ext. 210 for more information.

cur in the Carleton North High School soccer field (due to ongoing construction at the NCCC). Weather Permitting (Rain date – July 2)

Canada Day Events Outdoor Summer Market will be happening from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (time change for Canada Day only) at Riverside Park.

Vendor applications online at www.florencevillebristol.ca.

Recreation Events Please continue to check Florenceville-Bristol’s Recreation Facebook Page for the most current Recreation Events. www.facebook.com/florencevillebristolrecreation

Enjoy Canada Day Online Bingo-Get together with your bubble group and enjoy a game of bingo altogether. Check the town’s Facebook page for all details. www.facebook.com/ florencevillebristolrecreation The Canada Day Weekend Scavenger Hunt offers an activity for your whole bubble group?

Take a look at the hunt list and all details on the Florenceville-Bristol Recreation Facebook page.

Fireworks display will oc-

Woodstock Pool Closed Temporarily The AYR Motor Centre Indoor Pool will be closed from June 28 to July 10, re-opening to the public Sunday, July 11. As part of the AYR Motor Centre Energy Efficiency Project, the pool HVAC unit is being replaced. During this shutdown, crews will install the necessary piping for this transition.

Garbage Pickup Change Town Council has voted to provide garbage pick up on recycling days for the

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Canterbury ATV Rally The Canterbury Rec Council will host its annual ATV rally on June 26.

Registration is from 9 to 11 a.m. at the community centre, but organizers ask participants to preregister if possible. Send the form and etransfer to tcloutier7@gmail.com.

The event includes a walkup breakfast hosted

by Canterbury’s firemen, who will serve bacon or sausage breakfast sandwiches and hash browns, coffee, tea, juice or coffee. Just the fuel needed to get you to the barbecue at the halfway point

June 24 and runs from 3 to 6 p.m. outside the Nackawic Lions Club. The market doesn’t charge fees, but vendors must supply their own setup.

COVID rules will be in effect. More info? Connect with Jenifer Morgan on the Nackawic Market Facebook page.

ers ask those attending to remember to keep social distancing measures in place along the parade route, as well as remaining in their family bubbles.

Streets will be blocked along the parade route for the duration of the event.

Prom parade planned The Nackawic High School prom class is having a prom parade on Tuesday, June 22, at 6:30 p.m., with the community invited to come out and cheer them on. Due to COVID restrictions, only grads and their dates are permitted inside the arena or parking lots. Organiz-

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GOT EVENTS OR IMPORTANT COMMUNITY INFO TO SHARE?

Nackawic Market returns Nackawic Market starts

SUBMIT EVENTS BY THE FIRST OF THE MONTH (AT NO COST!) EMAIL theresa@rivervalleysun.ca

GET DAILY NB COVID-19 INFORMATION ON THE RIVER VALLEY SUN FACEBOOK PAGE For up-to-date case numbers, protocol changes, and government announcements, visit the River Valley Sun’s Facebook page.

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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 17

Taking advantage of the blank sheet that is each day

RIVERSIDE RAMBLINGS

By Carolyn Brown

W

hen I open my computer’s ‘Word Perfect’ program to begin writing, I read the words’ blank document’ and think, yes, every day starts this way.

We wake up to a blank sheet – a golden opportunity to start all over. We have a choice in how we reflect on each day, as well.

How could we have

hosted an event as we had on May 29 when Ruth Caverhill’s family and friends gathered outside our home to celebrate her 106th birthday without reflection? Our staff assisted in making this a memorable event. The beautiful display board in our lobby done by Health Care staff Jasmine told a story in pictures and word of Ruth’s life. The reflections from that day brought much laughter, shared stories, and fond memories of a life richly lived. What a unique experience to have great-greatgranddaughter Sarah, at six years old, present with exactly a 100 year age difference.

Meet our newest resident, Lena Irvine. Lena

came to us from her ‘forever’ home in the Riceville area, where she raised her son, John, as a single mom after the death of her husband, Dell, while she was seven and a half months pregnant with her son, John. Lena graduated from the Victoria Public School of Nursing in 1950, after which she and her husband went to Toronto, where she did private and public duty nursing. Returning to Woodstock, and after the death of her husband, Lena nursed for some time but then decided to return to the University of Toronto to study for an additional year specializing in Public Health. Her son was four years old then, and when the daycare situation didn’t

work out, she was forced to let John come home to be with her father and stepmom while she finished her year of studies.

Lena doesn’t like to think about that time in her life but knows she was blessed with a family who was there to help.

After her studies, she returned to New Brunswick and nursed, eventually becoming a Public Health Nurse – her passion fulfilled. “John was my whole life,” she told me. When I was a young mother with a new baby at home in Woodstock, the nurse that came to check on our new little family was Lena Irvine. Welcome to Riverside Court, Lena. We are blessed with residents who

Lena Irving recently moved to MacLeod Riverside Court.

(Carolyn Brown photo)

have many stories they are willing to share, so I’m lucky never to have to be concerned about that ‘blank sheet’ that greets me when I open my computer’s Word

Perfect’ program.

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

Ruth Caverhill celebrates 106 years S everal members of Ruth Caverhill’s family gathered at Riverside Court Saturday afternoon, May 29, for an outdoor celebration marking her 106th birthday.

Among those celebrating was six-year-old Emma Caverhill, who carried flowers to pres-

ent to her great-grandmother, born 100 years before her.

MacLeod Riverside Court staff prepared a large display in the senior residence’s lobby.

For Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Jim Dumville’s complete story of Caverhill’s life,

with her children sharing memories of their mother, and more photos, please visit the River Valley Sun Facebook page.

Photo: Ruth Caverhill, centre, is joined by several members of her family. Standing, from left, grandson Brennan Caverhill, sons Paul and

Peter Caverhill. Seated, at left, Grandson Bruce Caverhill, with wife Amy and daughter Emma.

At right, is granddaughter Marissa Pelkey, with sons Bennett and Jackson.

Daughter in law Anne Caverhill sits to Mrs. Caverhill’s right.

(Jim Dumville photo)

Drive-Thru Lobsterfest 2021: A kindhearted success!

IN A ‘MANOR’ OF SPEAKING

By Jane Jones

O

n Saturday, May 29, the Board of the Carleton Manor Foundation resumed their annual Lobsterfest fundraiser dinner with some ‘tweaks.’

Due to COVID-19 the

board transformed this year’s charity dinner into a drive-thru format. The result? An afternoon chock full of volunteers, sponsors and diners.

Thanks to the hard work

and planning of the volunteers and board members, combined with the generosity of the numerous sponsors and over 350 drive-thru diners, the Carleton Manor Foundation board proved a

great success. The board is well on its way to raising enough funds to build a bus barn to protect the bus that our Neighbours rely on to get them to appointments and take them on Tuesday

morning drives in the country.

Jane Jones is a wife and mother who handles public relations for Carleton Manor in Woodstock.

Slowly drive by the most incredible row of business names who sponsored our drive thru dinner. Their kindness, generosity and thoughtfulness knows no bounds!

Wave to the lovely and appreciative Neighbours on your way out. Carleton Manor Neighbours Michael Dionne, Brenda Bunting and Doris Burtt.

Give name and receive tax receipt. Peter Carpenter (Past Chair), Pat Gallivan (Volunteer), Roy Culberson (Board Member), John McLellan (Vice Chair), Susan Hayden (Volunteer & Organizer Extraordinaire), Barb Underhill (Volunteer), Mark Gaddas (Volunteer), Marg MacCallum (Treasurer)

Receive two bags. One for the lobster and the other for all the fixings. Loretta Clark (Food Services Manager), Linda Trecartin (Director of Nursing), Jenny Carpenter (Volunteer), Hannah Creaser (Registered Dietician), Julie Kimball (Registered Nurse), Alex Zander Prcic (Volunteer)

18

WELLNESS

Healthy Living Stories from the St. John River Valley Region

Fiddleheads and food safety Year-end concert

Let’s Talk Wellness

By Karrie Bedford BScNutr., RD

F

or those who may be new to the area or have never heard of a ‘fiddlehead,’ you might be asking what exactly is this delicious vegetable?

Fiddleheads are the edible curled shoots of a young fern that can be found on the bank of our river bed throughout many areas of our province. Available for only a brief time throughout the year (typically in May and June), many folks focus on harvesting and preserving these treats to enjoy throughout the year.

However, with all foods, there are always some food safety risks with fiddleheads that consumers need to know. While these seasonal treats are mostly locally and hand-harvested, there are some things

to keep in mind to help prevent food-borne illness from taking away your appetite for more.

Here are some quick safety tips brought to you from GNB to think of when you are harvesting and preserving your ‘cream of the fiddlehead crop’ this year: Cleaning fresh fiddleheads: Wash fiddleheads, removing as much of the brown husk as possible with your fingers. Use several changes of fresh cold water, which removes any remaining husk and dirt.

Cooking fiddleheads: Cook fiddleheads in boiling water for at least 15 minutes or steam them for 10-12 minutes. Discard this water and do not re-use it for any other purpose.

Freezing fiddleheads: Blanch cleaned fiddleheads for two minutes, plunging into cold water and draining (discarding the blanching water). Pack the drained fiddleheads in freezer containers or bags and store them in the freezer for up to one year. When you are ready, pull the fiddleheads from the freezer and cook using the method outlined above.

GOT NEWS TO SHARE?

Preserving fiddleheads: Unfortunately, a pressure canner is not recommended because safe process times have not been established for home preserved fiddleheads.

With the basic fiddlehead preparation steps done, you can check out the Western Valley Wellness Network’s Pinterest Board for unique and tasty ideas on how to turn this seasonal delicacy into delicious meals and side dishes for you and your family (soup, fritters, and much more!).

I look forward to seeing your fiddlehead creations, so feel free to share your recipes and culinary expertise on our “Get Cooking, Western Valley!” Facebook group for our fellow foodies to enjoy! For more information on fiddleheads and food safety, check out: www.gnb.ca/FiddleheadsandFoodSafety

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

PLEASE SUBMIT

BY THE FIRST OF EACH MONTH!

Woodstock Centre for Culture and Creativity students’ talent on display at outdoor performance

Dear self : I’m sorry for all the mean things I’ve said to you.

The year-end concert for students of Amy Anderson and the Woodstock Centre for Culture and Creativity highlighted young talent. The event was held at Citizen Park on Chapel Street in Woodstock on June 5.

Pictured, front row, from left: Lucas Dickinson, Lachlan MacDougall, John MacDougall, and Greyson McEwing. Middle: Maya Jones, Leah Burtt, Theodora Bobarnac, Charlotte McCartney, Kristina Miteva, Hazel Silva, Mirey Youssef, and Sydney Harper. Back: Amy Anderson and Varvara Shulgin. (Jane Jones photo)

xo

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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 19

Bath turns out big in support of IWK’s Ronald McDonald House

Lions Club ‘Walk in the Park’ fundraiser almost quadruples its goal

By Jim Dumville - Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

T

he Bath Lions Club set an ambitious fundraising goal when it launched its “Walk in the Park” fundraising drive supporting the Ronald McDonald House Charities’ $24-million project to build a new facility in Halifax.

Thanks to the generosity of supporters from the Upper St. John River Valley and beyond, said Bath Lions Club member and event organizer Gerald Sullivan, the Walk in the Park, which set out to raise $5,000, pushed $20,000 when the campaign ended at 4 p.m., Sunday, May 16.

Sullivan said he didn’t keep an accurate count, but more than 100 people showed up to the Bath Lions Park on a warm sunny Sunday to walk the track and support the important cause. More importantly, he added, residents from the region opened their hearts and wallets to donate to the

campaign from the time the Bath Lions launched it in early April.

He said several of the district’s approximately 80 Lions Clubs also held fundraisers to help reach the district goal. In addition, Sullivan said, Lions International committed to matching the district’s contributions up to $50,000.

As he prepared to close up Sunday’s event in Bath, Sullivan proudly stated the combined Lions Clubs’ efforts would likely deliver more than $100,000 to Ronald McDonald House Charities.

Joining Sullivan at Bath Lions Park on Sunday to set up and greet walkers were fellow club members, volunteers, and two local teenagers with first-hand knowledge of the essential services provided by Ronald McDonald House in Halifax.

Garrett Oakes and

Drew Kilcollins, students at Carleton North High School in Florenceville-Bristol, spent many weeks at the Ronald McDonald House as they underwent treatment for serious illnesses at the IWK Children’s Hospital. Both explained how the house provided positive memories in a challenging time for themselves and their respective families.

Once they heard about the Bath Lions fundraiser, they and the families offered immediate support.

Sullivan said Ronald McDonald House (RMHC Atlantic) supports 600 families annually, with 42 per cent of those families coming from New Brunswick, including many, like Drew and Garrett, from Carleton County.

Even then, Sullivan noted, it must turn away almost 400 more families in need because of lack of space.

Gerald Sullivan of the Bath Lions Club sits between the campaign’s RMH champions, Garret Oakes, left, and Drew Kilcollins. (Jim Dumville photo)

“This new modern facility will allow RMH to support an additional 600 families and alleviate a financial burden of $3.6 million,” he said when announcing the campaign’s launch in April.

Sullivan said support for the campaign came in many levels of contributions and from a variety of sources.

He pointed to the contributions of northern Carleton County schools, noting the Bath Community, Bristol Elementary, Florenceville Elementary, Florenceville Middle, Centreville Com-

munity, and Carleton North High schools combined raised $5,500.

“These schools planned a large variety of activities to have fun raising money for RMHCharties,” he said.

“This fundraiser demonstrates the strength of the people from small rural communities to come together to help one another,” Sullivan said. “They realize there are a large number of families from our local area who have used and continue to use the RMH and are more than willing to support them. The Bath Lions Club

is proud to serve in this generous community.”

Sullivan said the Lions Clubs would calculate its total contribution to the project soon.

Meanwhile, RMHC Atlantic plans to start construction this summer. If all goes according to plan, RMH intends to open the house in 2022, its 40th anniversary.

Sullivan looks forward to seeing the new modern Ronald McDonald House in Halifax, which, he noted, will sit conveniently across from the IWK Hospital.

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RURAL ROOTS

Stories About Country Life in Western New Brunswick

Missing Massachusetts

ADVENTURES OF AN ACCIDENTAL FARMER

By Ellen Culbert-Johnston

R

ecently I had a birthday and a morning filled with teary-eyed longdistance phone calls, text

messages and social media birthday wishes which I truly appreciated.

My kind and caring friend Sue came out to visit with an uplifting gift and a delicious birthday cake.

Things couldn’t have been lovelier. However, my heart wanted to be in the big city of Worcester, Massachusetts.

I wanted to visit my old stomping grounds and grab a coffee at Dunkin Donuts and lunch at one of the many restaurants that I en-

joyed with friends. Friends who have known me for decades and have been there through my sorrows and celebrations. My heart was in my neighbourhood church, along with being at the cemetery visiting my parents’ and brother Mark’s graves.

For the first time, the bottom line is that the border restrictions affected me personally, as I have not been to Massachusetts since December 2019. I missed my Mom terribly

on my birthday, missing her baking me a cake and a card with her writing of words of love, and most of all, I missed a long wraparound hug.

As the day moved along, my friend Sue and I went to town, where the strangest thing happened.

With Sue chatting in the passenger seat, I suddenly yelled out, “Massachusetts!” She gave me a look of concern, and I said, “Look! Look at the licence plate in front of us. It’s from Massachusetts!”

Sue quietly said, “It’s a gift from your mother. She knew you couldn’t go to Massachusetts and that you are upset about that, so she came to you on your birthday.”

I looked at her and asked what are the chances of seeing a vehicle from Massachusetts in Woodstock, New Brunswick, today, on my birthday?

Sue replied with a grin, “Very unlikely, my friend, very unlikely.”

My need to share special moments with familiar faces and places takes me to my cows, truly herd animals. They long to be part of a familiar group, where the older cows are bossy, and the younger calves can be a little too playful for the older ones to tolerate.

Last August, I had our heifer Erika artificially inseminated, and this past month she gave birth in the barn to a healthy bull calf, all by herself. It is amazing how mother nature and maternal instincts kick in

Erica and her calf happily stand together in the middle of a familiar herd. (Ellen Culbert-Johnston photo)

when it is time for birthing and nurturing their young.

As the days passed, I witnessed the calf growing stronger and bonding with his mother. With days getting warmer and the smell of the green grass out in the pasture, Erika was mooing more and more each day to be with the herd.

However, I was taking time to halter the bull calf in the barn, knowing that once he got with the herd, the job of haltering would be next to impossible for this rookie farmer.

One beautiful sunny afternoon, I put Erika outside in a separate pasture from the other cows to feed on greens. I thought this would be a good idea for her to be outdoors, but it made her mooing increase with the herd on the other side of the fence.

I think it was like a virtual visit for her, she could see her family, but she couldn’t get close to them. She was tired of self-isolation, and she became vocal about

her yearning to be with the herd.

As I yearned to be back in Massachusetts, I could relate to Erika’s yearning for a live visit, not a virtual visit. With feelings of uncertainty, the next day, I opened the barn door to let Erika and her calf join the herd to be with family and friends.

Erika’s isolation ended.

She couldn’t have been happier as she ran down to the bottom of the pasture, kicking up her heels with her young calf running behind, mooing as if to say, “Wait for me, Mom.” I imagine I will be a little like Erika, the cow, when the US-Canadian border opens, full of joy to see family and friends and all the familiar places.

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

Do you know what your Financial Advisor’s qualifications are?

Shouldn’t you? Greg and his team believe in lifelong, continuous learning, which benefits their clients. Now in his 25th year as a Financial Advisor, they have achieved several designations. To find out more about their credentials and how they can help you, visit:

gregmacpherson.ca/designations

Greg MacPherson Senior Financial Advisor BBA,CFP, FMA,FCSI,CPCA, RIAC

Manulife Securities Incorporated • 505 Main Street, Woodstock • 328-8889

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 21

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

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Answer key on page 24

A C K G C Q A C O X P X UWV G R S P R T M F S Y I H A A E C S R L F N DD T A Z V F C T DQ K T EWK U E V E F V S T

K Q N P A C T I V I T I E S A

H I H P K F B U Y X Y V B R N

U H N U R S E S H Y M L F A L

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LOBSTERFEST STANLEY KINDNESS FRIENDS SNACK MANOR NURSES SHACK COURTYARD LOBSTERFEST CARINGACTIVITIES NEIGHBOURS NEIGHBOURS CARLETON ACTIVITIES BUS

FRIENDS SHACK

• The first modern Olympic Games were held in the summer of 1896 in Athens, Greece.

•Mosquitoes are most prevalent during summer months. The mosquito has been on the earth for more than 30 million years.

• Ice pops were invented in 1905 by an 11-year-old boy named Frank Epperson.

• In August of 1762, the sandwich was created when the Earl of Sandwich requested meat between two pieces of bread.

RVS TONGUE TWISTER How can a clam cram in a clean cream can?

CARLETON COUNTY

Colloquialisms

By John Morris

blat \’blaht\ verb - To cry like a baby; usually considered COURTYARD disparaging; “Don’t sit there n’ blat all day.” Often employed in

the gerundive blattin’; “Oh, quit yer blattin’.” See also: spleeny.

STANLEY

KINDESS

CARLETON

CARING

MANOR

SNACK

MADE FOR CHARLIE S. AT CARLETON MANOR!

NURSES

•Agriculture is the single largest employer in the world.

BUS

SUMMER IS HERE! SUMMER CAMPS

An exciting opportunity for kids to be active and enjoy outdoor play. Lots of field trips/activities planned.

FOR AGES 7 to 12 YEARS

Hear this word pronounced at www.dooryard.ca.

Summer is a great time to get outdoors and get active!

YOUTH BASKETBALL SKILLS & DRILLS

A program designed to teach kids the fundamental skills of basketball. For boys and girls ages 8 - 9 yrs and 10 - 11 yrs.

Starts July 5th. Cost: $65 Must register in advance.

Registration per Week: $140/child ($112 for holiday weeks) - July 1, Aug 2) $130/child for 2 or more children per same family. ($104 for holiday weeks - July 1, Aug 2) ® Coed Classes: Tuesdays & Thursdays 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Additional charges are required for specific field trips: ($8/class) UP TO 7 PARTICIPANTS/CLASS. PRE-BOOK BY Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator Quilli’s Water Park: $10 extra - Greenhill Lake: $6 extra EMAIL: ayrmotorcentre@town.woodstock.nb.ca All COVID-19 guidelines must be © 2007 - 2021 Education.com Lunch options (certain days) for additional charge:

BOXING FITNESS CLASSES



Tues: Subway meal $7.75; Wed: Dairy Queen meal $4; Fri: Greco $1/slice

AQUATIC FACILITY

LIFESAVING SOCIETY SWIM LESSONS Summer Session starting July 11th 8-weeks offered.

Must register in advance.

SUMMER SWIM TEAM

Tuesdays and Thursdays July 13th – August 26th, 3:45-4:45 p.m.

This program is designed for youth ages 6 to 19 yrs that have the ability to swim in the deep end at least 25 m (1 length of the pool).

Cost: $80 (*$120 without resident ID) Session includes instruction 2x/week, cap and towel with participation in all western valley swim meets (tbd). Must register in advance. Payment must be made at the time of registration. *User fees are applied to this program.

Please inquire with AYR Motor Centre staff.

followed by all. You must use your own personal gear & equipment, including gloves.

It’s BACK!

Competitive Boxing Training Wednesdays and Fridays 6 to 8 p.m. and Saturdays 1 to 3 p.m.

Instructor: Neil Campbell. Boxing experience is encouraged but not required. Fee: $8/class; $65 punch card. Must book in advance.

YOUTH FUN BOX

For Ages 7-10 yrs. Mondays – 5-weeks, July 5th to Aug 9th (no class Aug. 2nd due to holiday) Cost: $20 Incorporates a variety of coordination drills, strength development exercise and mobility movements to help develop future athletes in a fun and supportive atmosphere. Limited spots. Must register and pay in advance.

KIDS OF STEEL TRIATHLON

Saturday, July 24th Sponsored by Manulife Securities. Watch our Facebook Page for details.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR GRADUATES Hannah McIntosh, Elizabeth Davidson, Leah Jones and to all the 2021 Grads!

22

ARTFELT

Arts and Culture News from Western New Brunswick

From Ukraine to Woodstock to Creek Village

Twelve-year-old Mariia-Viktoriia Mykhnevych in Young Artist Spotlight RIVER VALLEY SUN

T

welve-year-old MariiaViktoriia Mykhnevych loves art and colour. Both are on display this month at Creek Village Gallery and Cafe in Woodstock, where Mykhnevych is the Young Artist of the Month.

Born in Ukraine, Mykhnevych moved to Canada

two years ago when she was 10.

From the time she began school in her native country, she studied art.

“Starting from Grade 1 to Grade 4, I studied in a school where we had double art, ballet, music and theatre art,” plus normal classes,” Mykhnevych said

in the bio she wrote for the Creek Village. “In grade 1, I started to play piano and joined the swimming team, but art was always a part of my life.”

Rather than drawing something from her head, Mykhnevych said, she will often copy a picture and add something represent-

ing herself.

“I love to pick bright colours or colours that look different together,” she explained. “For example, a combination of green and orange on one picture, in my opinion, looks very cool.”

Mykhnevych said she hasn’t decided on a

favourite medium yet, as she still enjoys trying new styles and techniques in her art pieces.

The young artist is thrilled to share her work with a larger audience.

“I am so thankful to my art teacher at school, Mrs.(Darlene) Skinner and Creek Village Gallery

for giving me a chance to show my art pieces because I never did this before, and I am so excited.”

The public can check out Mykhnevych’s work on Creek Village’s Young Artist Spotlight wall sponsored

by Woodstock businessman Greg MacPherson of Manulife Securities.

MUSIC IN THE PARK Thursday evenings, 6 p.m.

Citizen Square Park Chapel Street, Woodstock July 1 July 8 July 15 July 22 July 29

Tracy and Amy Anderson Noel, Cora & Country Connection Combo A La Carte Atlantic Bridge Wood ‘n’ Nichols

August 5 August 12 August 19 August 26

Cathy Hutch with John Rosengren The McGuires Katherine Moller The Martin Boys

PLEASE NOTE

This is a free event. Come enjoy the summer weather.

Bring a chair, a friend, and have a great evening!

*Social distancing rules apply. *Be prepared to wear a mask. *Bring your own chair.

Rain location: Gallery Room, AYR Motor Centre

PRESENTED BY THE TOWN OF WOODSTOCK

Photos submitted

Riverside has many opportunities to come together and socialize!

The feeling of home in an active retirement community.

That’s Riverside Court! We take care of everything!

Call Carolyn at (506) 325-7507 to arrange a tour today!

870 Main Street Woodstock, N.B.

Residents enjoy time in our dining room,with great food and great conversation.

Call Carolyn today!

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 23

Obituaries and Memorials Paul Edward Lockwood P

aul Edward Lockwood passed away at the Upper River Valley Hospital on January 1, 2021, at the age of 95 years.

Paul was born on April 22, 1925, the first son of J. Bernard Lockwood and Jennie Ann (Hall) Lockwood. Paul’s life was an ongoing adventure. During the Second World War, he joined the Royal Canadian Navy and served until the end of the war on the destroyer HMCS Annapolis out of Halifax. After discharge Paul spent one year at UNB then returned home to apprentice with his father’s jewelry business as a watchmaker, graduating later from Ryerson Tech in Toronto with a Graduate Jewellers Degree. On January 1, 1953, he married his sweetheart, Dawn, and the next year he followed his other passion – music – and became a member of

the RHR Black Watch Military Band of Canada, and later the Canadian Artillery Band. He served for the next 20 years in postings in Halifax, Oromocto, Germany, and Montreal. His instruments were bass trombone and concert string bass.

Upon retirement, Paul and Dawn returned to their hometown, bought a grand, old house on Chapel Street, and continued the adventure. They opening the Queen Victoria Bed and Breakfast, and hosted the world for 14 years. After a second retirement, the couple settled down to just enjoy life to the fullest, travelling in their home provinces and the USA with family and friends.

Paul is survived by his family; his wife Dawn, only son Robert (Sharon), beloved granddaughters Sarah (Dylan) and Abi (Steven) Lockwood. N i e c e s

Michelle (Calvin) Moran, Melissa (Scott)Farrell, Lori, Laura, Sandra Lockwood, and four grand-nephews and one grand-niece.

Paul was predeceased by his father and mother, brothers John, James and David, and sister Jeannine Folsom.

Special thanks for the excellent care Paul received in the past year at Carleton Manor – the family will be forever grateful.

“To be remembered with love in the hearts we leave behind, is to never die.”

A grave-side service for family and friends will take place on Saturday, June 19, 2021, at 1 p.m. at the Woodstock Rural Cemetery, with Rev. Wendy MacWilliams officiating.

Dawn wishes to thank all those who sent messages and love at the time of Paul’s passing. The family is so grateful.

April 22, 1925 – January 1, 2021

GOT PAINT ?

If you have leftover cans of paint, deck coatings, varnishes, primers, undercoats, marine paints, pool paints kicking around, there are places you can safely dispose of them. Take your unused, old paint to one of the following locations ANY TIME OF THE YEAR, during regular business hours:

Vail’s Bottle Exchange 522 Main Street, Woodstock (328-9842)

Southern Valley Transfer Station 155 Moffatt Street, Woodstock (328-6139) Weibe’s Home Hardware 9 Rim Road, East Centreville (276-4516) Maple View Redemption Centre 183 Route 385, Weaver (356-1812)

Brooks Redemption Centre 496 Campbell Settlement Road, Hartfield (575-8136)

QUESTIONS?

Call us at (506) 276-3610 ext. 201 Email us at recycle@rsc12.ca Visit our website at www.rsc12.ca or find us on Facebook at WVRSC-Waste Management Division

Western Valley Regional Service Commission 3143 Main Street Unit 2 Centreville, NB E7K 3E8 (506) 276-3610

Note to self: I pray you quit overthinking, replaying failed scenarios, feeding self-doubt and seeing the good in everyone but yourself. You deserve more.

24

CONNECTION

Sharing Stories of Inclusion, Diversity, and Community

Pride month 2021: An overdue celebration

Sincerely, Me

By Abigail Noble

She/Her, They/Their/Them

F

or months, I have been planning a way to celebrate the LGBTQI2S+ community in my school.

Finally, through a Political Science 120 action project, I did just that.

To raise awareness of the importance of LGBTQI2S+ rights and education, I created pride pins and bracelets and handed out semi-permanent tattoos and informational pamphlets free of charge.

Before completing this project, I received approval from both Hartland Community School and the district to distribute LGBTQI2S+ materials. The district suggested a few minor changes, which I gladly agreed to – expanding the acronym, word choice, etc.

The response I got was overwhelming. I expected significant backlash from some students and staff, but I am glad to say that I was proved wrong. Instead, proud tweens, teens, and staff crowded my table to show their support for the LGBTQI2S+ community.

Before continuing this article, I would like to address the claims that I was “pushing” the LGBTQI2S+ community on students; this is not true. I sat at my table, spoke when spoken to, and allowed students and staff to come to me.

They did – quite enthusiastically, I might add. Some teachers had to disperse students in groups so as not to overcrowd the hallways.

Through this project, I was effectively able to assess the LGBTQI2S+ population at Hartland

Community School. It is significant, yet there is no GSA (Gay-Straight Alliance) or community group to support them.

The most gratifying experience of this project was speaking to the children who accepted my gifts. One child spoke to me, close to tears, and expressed their gratitude, saying, “The school has never done anything like this before” (which is true).

Some children squealed with glee as they raced down the halls donning their PRIDE swag. Another child returned to my booth several times, each time wishing me a “good day.”

After my presentation was complete, I could not stop thinking about how excited these children were, how they rejoiced at even the simplest recognition of their identity. Their reaction tells me that HCS, and likely many other schools, has a serious problem. There is no community for LGBTQI2S+ students and staff.

As a pansexual, nonbinary student, I know firsthand why this is such an important issue. We live in a conservative area where phrases like “that’s so gay” and derogatory terms run rampant. I am lucky enough to have a supportive family and the opportunity to participate in university groups next year, but it breaks my heart to think of those children trying to survive the rest of their primary school years in an environment that does not acknowledge their struggles or stand up for their rights.

Through conversations with school officials, I know that New Brunswick is working to finalize a new middle-school health curriculum that will incorporate comprehensive LGBTQI2S+ education, featuring sections on sexuality, sexual expression – both to oneself and to others – and the understanding and acceptance of different life-

styles. The implementation of LGBTQI2S+ education in regular schooling practices has been an excessively debated topic, which indicates that N.B.’s new curriculum will likely be met with significant backlash.

However, through accredited studies concerning statistical community growth, poor mental and physical health, and the impacts of discrimination, it is undeniable that comprehensive education will only serve to benefit students.

A 2016 Canadian Community Health Survey found that 3.2%, which translates to approximately 1,155,520 million, Canadian adults across all generations self-identified as LGBTQI2S+. As generations progress, this number continues to grow. Yet, the majority of, if not all, STI prevention information available to students and teachers targets heterosexual people. Meanwhile, LGBTQI2S+ people account for over half of common sexual infections, including HIV and syphilis.

In addition, LGBTQI2S+ people face a higher risk (up to 14 times) of developing mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive and phobic disorders, suicidality, self-harm, substance use, and post-traumatic

Abigail Noble in the front lobby of Hartland Community School where LGBTQI2S+ information and merchandise were available, free of charge. (Submitted photo)

stress disorder (PTSD).

These statistics are primarily influenced by the increased abuse and discrimination that LGBTQI2S+ people encounter.

The fight for LGBTQI2S+ education is not an attempt to push “homosexual values” on youth: It is a mission to bridge the historical gap between ignorance and acceptance.

A significant population of our people is suffering, both mentally and physically, from our current societal standards. By promoting LGBTQI2S+ education and creating community groups, we can fight stereotypes, spread unbi-

ased, factual information, and heal those suffering unjust harm.

I will end this article with the following quotation. It is directly quoted from an article written by the 2018 Chancellor of the New York City Department of Education Richard Carranza concerning the importance of LGBTQI2S+ education.

His words encapsulate the message we all should take away from this article: “It’s not enough to tell students that they will be

accepted for who they are.

We must show them, in the literature we read, in the language we use, and in the way we invest our resources, that we are a deeply connected society made up of different voices and perspectives that all deserve to be seen, heard, and respected.”

Abigail Noble is a Grade 12 student at Hartland Community School and is doing their co-op with the River Valley Sun newspaper.

CRIME STOPPERS

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LOBSTERFEST FRIENDS NURSES SHACK

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A C K G C Q A C O X P X UWV G R S P R T M F S Y I H A A E C S R L F N DD T A Z V F C T DQ K T EWK U E V E F V S T

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METHAMPHETAMINE

Regional law enforcement are witnessing an increase in criminal acts, many having links to the illegal use of an inexpensive and highly addictive drug known as crystal methamphetamine. The destructive nature of this illegal drug affects families and public safety within our communities. It can lead to extreme violence, aggression and paranoid behaviour. If you have any information about methamphetamine distribution, manufacturing and illegal selling and wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers. A cash award will be provided to you for your information. Let’s all work together to make our communities a safer place to work and raise our young families.

www.crimenb.ca 1-800-222-8477

NEIGHBOURS COURTYARD If we had to guess, we would say, YES, Pilates is STANLEY KINDESS CARLETON for you! Join Mat or Equipment classes in CARING MANOR us forSNACK BUS the studio and/or Mat Zoom classes!

ACTIVITIES

www.pilateswithpurpose.ca hannah@pilateswithpurpose.ca Woodstock – 506 . 328 . 1820 

®

Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator © 2007 - 2021 Education.com

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 25

RVS SUNSHINE KIDS

AVONDALE KITCHENS Are 100% Wood Cabinets Really The Best?

SUNSHINE SMILE: Meet seven-year-old Lennox Martin from Bloomfield. Lennox is the son of Tyson and Jessica Martin. He loves his pets, and all animals. When Lennox grows up, he’d like to be a teacher. (Submitted photo)

Is there such a thing as 100% solid wood cabinets? Technically, no. The cabinet end panels and shelving need to be made from a plywood or composite board so they don’t warp or twist, like wood usually does.

There are significant advantages to melamine finishes. Melamine interiors have a lifetime finish; they are effortless to wipe clean and never need to be refinished.

Melamine has the same finish as Formica counters or laminate floors.

Sure, these melamine finishes have a pressboard interior, but due to European engineering, they also have thick backing. Combine that with specialty hidden hinges and fasteners, and these cabinets will perform very well over your lifetime.

When doing natural wood or stained wood cabinets, the doors are truly solid wood, and typically the end panels are plywood. Painted cabinets are all the rage in the decorating world at the moment. You get a modern, minimalist, country or even a Victorian look and feel with painted cabinets.

In the mid-’80s, new, high-quality European finishes were developed for the cabinet industry. Kitchens now have a finish that will rival the finish on cars or refrigerators.

There are some very compelling reasons to move to composite MDF doors and side panels with these finishes. Why? With wood doors, these hi-tech paints will not stretch at the wood-moving areas and cause cracking or breaking at the joints.

The one-piece MDF doors are really one piece with the profile cut into the sheet so the painted finish will not split or crack at the joint lines.

Without question, when looking at painted doors, the MDF products can genuinely be the superior product.

So when pondering whether you should be selecting solid wood or MDF doors, remember, when choosing painted cabinets, MDF will allow the superior finish and long-term durability.

Residence of Shawn & Margo Dickinson, Bedell, NB

SUNSHINE SMILE: Meet five-year-old Aryan Seth of Hartford.

This Woodstock preschooler is the son of Sian Roalf and Nischay Seth. His favourite things to do are dance, play board games, and watch television. Seth wants to be a fireman when he grows up, which might explain why his favourite colour just happens to be red. (Submitted photo) Submit your sunshine kid or kids photos to theresa@rivervalleysun.ca

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

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

LE’S A D ON V A RY E V H AT T W STS Y? L O O K P N E E GE UK W A O P Y T N K TE DID OO N B O E C FA C S T I N G RE E See amazing before & after T N I kitchen-makeovers on the Avondale Facebook page each week!

AVONDALE

KITCHENS

For weekly kitchen makeovers, follow Avondale Kitchens on Facebook or see past blog posts at AvondaleKitchens.com

317 Lockhart Mill Road, Woodstock, NB (506) 328-4111

26

WEEDS, SEEDS & GARDEN DEEDS

By Michelle Corcoran

N

Let’s keep that garden growing!

Slow-release pellet fertilizers are available; using them for annuals can help keep nourished for longer. You can also use liquid balanced fertilizers every week or two and read package instructions for mixing as too much fertilizer can burn plants.

ow that we have those beautiful annuals planted, your new and old perennials are bursting with life, and our vegetable gardens are starting to sprout nicely, we should think about how to keep things growing well throughout the season.

Organic Fertilizer Adding compost to perennials, trees/ shrubs, and your vegetable garden (well-rotted manure compost, the fresh manure will burn plants) is a great way to provide slow nutrients through the season.

Fertilizing The roots of your plants will spread out near the surface of the ground. Place any fertilizers/ compost on the surface, where nature can work it into the ground.

Use a well-balanced garden fertilizer, limit the use of high phosphate fertilizers as they compete with mycorrhizal growth in the soil and contaminate runoff water. Use fertilizers labelled for the right plants – rose food is a different blend than annual flowers or evergreens.

The macronutrients listed will be as 10-10-10 (nitrogen-phosphorous-potash/ potassium content).

Mulching Mulch around your plants is a great way to maintain soil moisture.

Add compost under the much if it is the first year for mulching. Apply much in layers of 3-4 inches.

Make sure not too thickly mulch right up to the base of trees, leave a “mulch bagel” – decrease mulch depth around the base of a tree (a few feet) so it is only a thin layer.

As the mulch decomposes over the years, you will need to reapply. The best choices are coarse wood material, pine needles (use for acid-loving plants). Mulch will also add nutrients back to the

soil as it decomposes.

New Plant After Care There is no such thing as an instantly drought tolerant plant! They need to establish their roots in the first year, so water is essential. After that, roots will grow towards water, nutrients and oxygen.

Water new plants every day if there is no rain and if the soil feels dry on top.

If you see anything wilting (new or older plants) – WATER it!

If we have a very dry season like we did last year, watering can be challenging. So the idea is to set up rain barrels to keep the water supply without draining your well!

Regular Watering A reminder that most plants (especially annuals) will need watering in the morning/ early evening, but watering too late at night can increase the risk of fungus and mildew if plants can’t dry before going to bed. Don’t wait until plants wilt to water.

Many herbs (like basil and tender herbs) don’t like to have their roots really well, so don’t keep the soil too moist.

Water Barrel Care Set up barrels under the downspout of your

eavestrough. You can put a screen over an old clean barrel and hold it on with clamps or metal barrel rings to keep out debris. However, standing water can attract mosquitos and bacteria. Some options: add 1 Tbsp of dish soap or ¼ cup vegetable oil weekly or after each rain (this creates a film on top of the water and drowns them). To kill bacteria in the water, you can treat with 1 ounce (30 mL) of unscented chlorine bleach for 55 gallons of water. Allow 24 hours before using water for chlorine to dissipate.

Clean birdbaths/feeders Clean and rinse feeders weekly to reduce the transfer of songbird diseases. In addition, I take my seed feeders down in June to reduce the spread of diseases.

Michelle Corcoran is a home gardener in Florenceville-Bristol with interests in both annuals, herbs, and perennials. Michelle also collects seeds and cuttings to continually source her own flowers and gardens. She is an active member of the Florenceville-Bristol Garden Club and enjoys cultivating her green thumb.

Michelle’s beautiful white honeysuckle she planted this year. (Michelle Cocoran photo)

The new garden bed Michelle planted beside her driveway.

(Michelle Cocoran photo)

Another great spring for bumblin’

BEAUTIFUL BUMBLES

By Linda McHatten

W

ell, folks, it has been a great spring for bumbling. It seems every year I meet new people that want to join us on our bumbles. The opportunity arose recently when our bumble friend Gary called and asked if we would like to join him and his father on a bumble.

Wayne McCallum, his 91-year-old father from Woodstock, had never been on a side x side or four-wheeler. So I scurried around and got things ready for the following day’s bumble to Canterbury. Don and Brian (a newcomer to the group)

also joined us. It warmed my heart to see the smile on Wayne’s face as we ventured out.

Would he still be smiling after the almost 90 km bumble? We stopped at our usual spot at Benton Dam. It is always beautiful here. Sometimes when we stop along the trail to stretch our legs and chat, I will walk along the trail with my camera, and my husband will pick me up.

Today, I discovered a butterfly I had never seen before, the Comma Butterfly, which was exciting.

The trails were covered with white fluff from dandelions, and the air looked like it was snowing. We also could not believe the swarm of dragonflies we drove through. I never saw this before.

Our bumble took us to Canterbury. Wayne shared memories with us of places along the trail.

Just when he thought his day could not get any better, we see a beautiful

cow moose with her calf in dead water. What a sight this was! Wayne’s words, “This made my day!” We returned to Woodstock, and yes, he was still smiling.

A few days later, we attended the Shiktehawk Rally sponsored by Dave’s Sports and True North Baptist Church with COVID restrictions in place. Leaving the camp, we travelled some beautiful trails that would take us in a loop, including West Glassville Road and through Kenneth. While stopped at a bridge on a stream, I took a little walk only to find a hidden gem of a small waterfall. It was so peaceful here, watching and listening to the water flowing over the rocks.

Bumbling on as it was getting onto lunchtime, we continued to Maguire Rests Area and through beautiful hardwood trails until we reached Bulldozer Pond. Because of COVID restrictions, we were pro-

Seeing a cow moose and her calf on the trail made the day of 91-year-old Wayne McCallum, who joined some friends for a bumble. (Linda McHatten photo)

vided with a paper bag lunch at Tompkins Camp.

I thought this was an excellent idea. The bumble back to the camp stirred up memories of some of the fishing spots and trails we had taken our children to many years ago. I love the woods trails.

Before arriving back at

the camp, we stopped at the famous Boot Tree. Anthony had a great time trying to throw shoes back up in the tree that had fallen off. It was a great day seeing people that we had not seen for two years. The money collected from this rally goes back into the camp: a great turnout and

an awesome time. Until next month folks, happy trails, and stay safe!

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

New exhibition: Colours of Nature

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 27

NB textile artist Kathy Tidswell’s work at ALMAG RIVER VALLEY SUN

T

he Andrew & Laura McCain Art Gallery is pleased to have the work of New Brunswick fibre artist Kathy Tidswell in the West Gallery until June 19.

Kathy Tidswell has a long career of working with textiles in a variety of creative ways. Her materials include paint and dye, machine stitching, as well as cloth that is found or

created.

The artist identifies two areas of exploration in the artwork included in the exhibition: Wall Quilts and Thread Stitching.

The artist’s thread paintings are inspired by her own photography which she transcribes to fabric through drawing, laying in the background and some detail with fabric paint and then moving on to what

she calls the fun part, the “embellishing.”

Finishing the last stage of the work by drawing with a sewing machine to build up the main image with overlapping stitches. Elements of her composition become dimensional with layers and layers of stitching in carefully selected colours that enhance texture, form and pattern.

The second body of

work is the artist’s more traditionally quilted wall pieces which often include hand painted swatches of fabric or the addition of collaged elements that are painted and stitched, at times becoming 3 dimensional. With a sophisticated understanding and control of colour and medium, the artist captures the seasons and moods of New Brunswick.

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28

IN FOCUS

Putting the Spotlight on People in Your Community

Broken-hearted aunt launches Ride 4 Suicide Awareness

Fundraising ongoing with bikers riding from Woodstock to Fredericton

By Cloey Kinney

M

aria Pozsgai will set up her table from Woodstock to Florenceville-Bristol to raise money for the inaugural Ride 4 Suicide Awareness.

It will culminate on Sept. 11 when bikers start their machines for the first of what organizers plan to make an annual event to raise money and awareness about suicide.

“Sadly, we lost my nephew (John) to suicide, and we’re going to raise some money for mental health with all proceeds going to the

Chalmers Foundation,” said Pozsgai.

On Saturday, Sept.

11, she asks bikers to bring their motorcycle for a run, explaining registration is $20 per bike for the event that runs from J&T Powersports on Houlton Road in Woodstock to Maclean’s Sports LTD. on Union Street in Fredericton.

“My nephew used to love to ride motorcycles,” she said. “And we used to love to ride motorcycles together.

We’re doing (the event) in remembrance of him.

When life gives you lem-

ons, you try to make something good out of it, so we’re going to raise some money for mental health.”

Pozsgai is also selling her 50/50 tickets “a little bit of everywhere.”

“Normally Friday nights after work and then Saturdays as I work full time, so this is my parttime job.”

Tickets are $5 each or three for $10.

People can also purchase tickets online by emailing Pozsgai at ride4suicideawareness@ gmail.com or calling at 1-506-425-1740.

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“There are no limits to what you can accomplish, except the limits you place on your own thinking.”

- Brian Tracy

Canadian/American motivational speaker

The story of Erich Schultz LIVING HISTORY

By Doris Kennedy The following is a true story.

E

rich hung his head after staring at the grave.

“Fifty! Dad, you left me at the age of 50! I’m only 16, Willie, just three in leg braces, and Ernst seven.

I’m scared, Dad. It is too much for me to look after a generational 23 acres farm to sow and harvest and tend the animals.”

The young man walked from the rented gravesite, leaving the flowers resting.

“Come!” Yelled his mother, Martha. “We have to harvest the beets.” His mother worked alongside his father, so there will be no need to direct her. Erich had no choice. He took control.

“Ernst feed the horses and the animals. After you get that done, clean out the pens,” demanded Erich.

“Willie, you will be responsible for the eggs and help Ernst with the chores.”

Besides a large garden full of vegetables, walnuts, wheat, cherry orchards, and grapes were grown.

Sugar beets were their essential crop. Many times Erich watched his father extract sugar from them.

Ten pounds yielded 1.7 pounds of crystal sugar.

The remains of the root were stored in a large hole for the winter. When needed for feed, a square shovel dug the desired amount.

“Open the gates, Ernst,” Erich commanded as he

drove a team and wagon towards the stonewall. A set of double doors were carved out of the stonewall of their cobblestone farmyard, known as a Hoff. Near those doors was a central doorway with a bell that signalled someone’s entrance. Ernst was coming from the barn that housed the animals, a wood structured faced in stone.

Two years later, Erich was conscripted to the Heer Branch of the German Army, Wehrmacht, in 1939. He had to go to war, and the farm left for Martha to cultivate.

“I sent the coordinates of the Russian military site,” Sergeant Erich Schulze turned to tell the Private beside him. Sergeant Erich Schulze was in charge of the tank with a periscope.

The cruiser climbed to positions to view Russian villages on the eastern front in Germany, took coordinates of the town, then message a battle tank. Their purpose was not to engage in battles but to gain an advantageous position to study and report back to the operations commander.

“Let’s get out of here before they notice,” Schulze added. Five men lived, slept, and ate in the tank and naturally became very close. They were buddies.

On return to the base from an assignment in Austria, a sudden blast rang out, a distinct roar of metal on metal, shrill screams, flashing light then intensified friction triggered heat and fire. Three were dead.

The back end and the motor were destroyed.

Erich Schulze was 24 years old, one of two survivors, and worse yet, he was responsible for cleaning his three pals’ blood and mutilated body parts.

Erich had a big hole in his side and three bullets from battle he carried throughout his life. He was in a full-body cast in a hospital.

‘What was that?’ He thought. The bomb made the hospital rumble, and the roar woke Erich. His arms were the only part of him not in a cast, so he rolled himself off his cot onto the floor, and with his forearms, he crawled over broken glass, dead bodies, down a flight of stairs to the bomb shelter in the basement. He could not reach the handle and laid in front of the door until someone pulled him in.

Before the war, Edith led a pampered life with servants to wash, do her laundry and clean her room.

Cooks and waitresses fed her, and her parents were well off enough to send her to finishing school. They owned a store, inn and tavern. She was raised to be a rich man’s wife.

Over the top of his tipped beer glass in their tavern, his eyes glanced at an attractive uniformed girl smiling while she chatted with a guest at a nearby table. Erich was smitten.

Edith Thiele, a refined and educated lady, was pursued and became a farmer’s wife.

The war ended. East Germany was cut off from the rest of the world under Soviet influence, years later by the Berlin Wall. Edith and Erich were heartbroken and longed for the Germany that nurtured them.

Their children watched the soldiers take Erich to jail.

“They want their tax money based on what the land should produce, not what it does produce,” Erich whispers to his frantic wife. “Don’t worry. I have

a plan when I get out. My business friend from West Germany sent a fictitious invitation for his daughter’s wedding. We can go there temporarily until we immigrate to Canada. In Canada, we will be safe and have freedom.”

With tears in her eyes, they left family, friends, and treasured belongings with an overnight bag after the German Democratic Government permitted them to attend the wedding. Pregnant Edith wore a fur coat on the train, and beads of sweat and edginess overwhelmed Erich and Edith at the checkpoint. With a stoic appearance, they passed through and rented in West Germany for a couple of years. They sold the fur coat and used the money sewn in the lining of her fur to live on before they left for Canada.

“We fully expected on arrival to Canada we would be living in a log cabin and fighting bears and natives, as taught in Germany.

Imagine how we felt when we approached Quebec City and saw the Chateau Frontenac and the European architecture,” said Ollie, their oldest and only son now 10. Sisters Eyke 6 and Uta 2 accompanied him.

Erich had $26 in his pocket when his feet stepped on Canadian soil.

An immigration employee picked the five of them up and drove them to Prince William, New Brunswick, to work on a poultry farm located where King’s Landing is today.

“They didn’t know what to do with us,” chimed in Ollie. “None of us spoke English, and the teacher didn’t speak German. Eyke and I sat all day and just looked at each other. Mom and Dad worked seven days a

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 29

Edith and Erich Schulze in Germany, happier times.

(Submitted photo)

week. Mom killed chickens and took the guts out. If she found an underdeveloped egg, she squeezed it into a can and brought it home for us to eat. At five cents an hour, we had little money for necessities. Her hands were raw and bloody from the type of work. Finally, Mom put a sling on her arm, portraying the need for a hospital, and my parents hitchhiked to the immigration office in Fredericton to explain our environment.

The officials pulled us out of Prince William immediately and sent us to Glassville, our home for three years, and we loved it.”

In Glassville, the community greeted them with warmth and compassion.

The teacher taught the children English, and they taught their parents. Erich worked for Murray MacIntosh, a generous man that gave Erich full-time work, even in the winters cutting wood.

“After three years, Dad found work as a welder at Craig’s Machine Shop in Hartland,” Ollie said. They rented a house on Rockland Road in Hartland and soon a new addition to the family. Carla, a third daughter, was born.

“Woodie and Maud Craig were so generous,” added Eyke.

“The old town hall stood on the spot Woodie Craig wanted to expand his business on and came to Erich.

“You can have the building, but you have to move it,” said Woodie. Ollie remembered that event in 1964.

“Oh my goodness, what a job,” Ollie straightened up in his chair. “The top had to be cut off, including a pigeon nest of waste and small animal skeletons in the steeple. Stink!” Ollie scrunched up his nose.

“We kept the section of the town hall’s meeting room on the second floor.

We made it into a place of our own.”

The Schulze family proudly became Canadian citizens in 1961. The family’s immigration has a happy ending, but not without the incredible struggles of parental self-sacrifice.

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

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

Reach out to David Asbell and his knowledgeable team for affordable coverage to protect the important things in life!

30

SPORTS

Highlights and Features of Local Sports and Sporting Events

Carmichael receives Hockey Canada Order of Merit (Atlantic) Award RIVER VALLEY SUN

R

ay Carmichael’s dedication to minor hockey spanned decades and a nation. This year, Centreville’s long-time minor hockey parent, volunteer and executive on the local, provincial and national level earned recognition for his contributions to the game’s growth when he was named the 2021 recipient of the Hockey Canada Order of Merit (Atlantic) Award.

Carmichael accepted the national recognition with humility.

“It is certainly an honour to be nominated by Hockey NB, supported by the Atlantic Branches and recognized by Hockey Canada, he said. “The greatest honour has been working to provide all our local and N.B. youth the opportunity to experience the game and value of team play.”

Hockey Canada created the Meritorious Awards to honour those individuals who for many years have served amateur hockey faithfully, and made outstanding contributions to Canadian amateur hockey.

“Being a hockey parent is a gift to the game all in itself, but Ray Carmichael’s dedication has extended beyond those first few years to over three decades of service to hockey in New Brunswick.

“A true believer in grassroots hockey, Ray was a director with the Northern Carleton Minor Hockey Association from 1983-91. The following year, he started his involvement with Hockey New Brunswick as the District 2 director for Minor Council.

Taking on the responsibilities as chair and sitting on various committees filled Ray’s time until 2012, when

he was elected Member president, a role he held until 2018.”

As part of his responsibilities, Ray served on the Hockey Canada Board of Directors from 2012-14 and helped usher in the governance change for the national organization in 2014.

Through all his work, Ray has been committed to ensuring the best experience for all participants. He is a stout advocate for proper training of all volunteers – coaches, officials and administrators. This supported his belief that volunteers are the greatest asset in growing the game within traditional hockey families, First Nations and new Canadians.

Through his continual work to grow the game, Ray Carmichael is laying the groundwork for today’s hockey parent to be tomorrow’s volunteer.”

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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 31

Fred Seca, Debbie Grant capture 2021 Rubber Boot titles

Great day on the links for the 25th Frederick John Sappier Memorial

BY JIM DUMVILLE Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

F

red Seca tipped the rubber boot to his lips for the first time. Facing him, Debbie Grant drank from the boot for the fifth time.

Seca and Grant took home the men’s and women’s titles as 2001 Frederick John Sappier Memorial Rubber Boot champions held Saturday, May 29, at the Woodstock Golf and Curling Club.

Shawn Sappier, son of the late Fred Sappier, enjoyed handing out the hardware to the winners for the 25th time since the naming of the annual Woodstock spring tournament in honour of his father.

Sappier said Saturday proved to be a great day on the links for the 44 golfers, 31 men and 13 women.

He explained the Rubber Boot Classic began as the Woodstock course’s first tournament of the year.

Because of COVID-19, he said last year’s got pushed back to July. This year, the event also ran a little later in the year than usual.

“The weather was beau-

tiful,” said Sappier, noting that proved a pleasant surprise since forecasts suggested less than ideal golfing weather.

Seca and Grant took advantage of the good conditions. Seca shot a net 65 to capture his first men’s title, while Grant’s net 72 will etch her name on the Fred Sappier plaque for the fifth time.

Jerry Vienneau shot a net 67 to earn the second low net on the men’s side, while Angela Welch captured the second low-net title for the women with a net 73.

Welch and Gord Hutton won the Kelti M. Burnett Memorial Shoot-out titles.

Al MacKay grabbed the award and prizes in the “closest to the pin” men’s title, named this year, for the first time, in memory of the late Jack Kitchen. His son Dave Kitchen was on hand to present the award to MacKay, who called it a special moment as he was a close friend to the Kitchen family.

The Frederick John Sappier Memorial Rubber Boot Champions Fred Seca and Debbie Grant take the traditional drink from the boot at the Woodstock Golf and Curling Club, Saturday, May 29. (Jim Dumville photo)

Shawn Sappier proudly displays the Frederick John Sappier Memorial Rubber Boot plaque. Saturday was the 25th anniversary of the spring tournament named in memory of his father. (Jim Dumville photo)

Al MacKay, right, accepts the 2021 Jack Kitchen Memorial Closest-to-the-Pin title. Presenting the prizes are, left, Jack’s son, Dave Kitchen and organizer Shawn Sappier.

(Jim Dumville photo)

Speaking of Sports The divorce papers are signed

By Andrew McCormick

I

t’s final. I’m a fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs no more.

To prevent others from falling into the black hole of Leaf fandom, I’m sharing portions of my tumultuous 42-year incarceration as a fan of the Toronto Maple Leafs.

How it began: It was a cold (I’m assuming) winter day in February 1979 when the Leafs recalled New Brunswick Hawks’ winger Rocky Saganiuk, who scored 47 goals so far that season for the combined American Hockey League farm team of the Leafs and Blackhawks.

I’d been a Montreal Canadiens fan to this point, and just like Habs goalie Ken Dryden, I’d become bored of winning. Dryden retired to become a lawyer.

Thinking back, in changing NHL team allegiances and following my new hero Saganiuk to Toronto, I soundly admit my then 12-year-old mind lacked the maturity to make this type of life-altering decision.

I can tell you, being a Leaf fan from 1979 to present-day 2021 is the equivalent of wearing a “KICK ME

WHERE IT HURTS” sign on your back 24/7 for 42 consecutive years.

Back to Saganiuk. Unfortunately, if you left the room to go to the fridge, you missed out on his three-season Leafs career.

From day one, Saganiuk didn’t endear himself to Toronto. In a prime example of “hockey karma,” Tiger Williams shared this ditty in his book several years later.

Cantankerous Leaf owner Scrooge Ballard traded Lanny McDonald in late December ‘78. Enter Saganiuk. Upon his arrival, he announced he would replace Lanny, even donning McDonald’s number 7.

Saganiuk’s career nosedived, even after switching to number 8.

I’m embarrassed to admit I possess the world’s only complete O-Pee-Chee three-card Rocky Saganiuk Toronto Maple Leaf set.

The ‘80’s Leafs were to their fans what ‘80’s hair was for Rock’ n Roll...a bad case of hockey split ends.

It was a 10-year run that seemed to last for 20, with the franchise finishing the decade 179 games under .500.

There was a resurgence in the ‘90s under GM Cliff Fletcher, coach Pat Burns and Captain Doug Gilmore, making the semi-finals in ‘93 and ‘94, the last Leaf team to do so.

In 2004, the Leafs won one playoff round, and in the 17 years since, never won another. In fact, from ‘05 to ‘16, the team missed the playoffs every season but one.

Alas, for me, the ‘04 second-round loss triggered severe life decisions. I had watched each playoff game that spring with high expectations after the Leafs stocked up at the trade deadline.

For each game, I sat exactly 67 inches from my TV. My Rocky Saganiuk three-card set dutifully perched on top of the TV (prior to the days of flat screens).

After the loss in the second round, I was spent. I swore never to buy another piece of Leaf paraphernalia or team memorabilia until the team won a Cup. My new motto was “they owe me.” I had given time, money, sweat and tears to this team, with zero return.

I confirmed my deter-

Andrew’s three-card Rocky Saganiuk set. (Andrew McCormick photo)

mined stance to then-GM John Ferguson Jr. in an email to a Leafs general account. I never received a reply.

Oh, and the chair which sat 67 inches from my TV? It was an actual gold chair from Maple Leaf Gardens.

Yep. Since sold. At a loss, of course.

Today’s version of the Leafs is difficult for me to like. (I admit I’m old school.

Fault me for that.) The biggest stars show up to games weighed down in bling and dressed like rap gods. Game results tell me more time is spent on wardrobe preparation than

playoff game prep. Spotlight, please.

BTW, I love my Eminem. But Slim Shady doesn’t show up to play concerts in hockey gear.

Last night (as I write this), our porn ‘stachewearing Rocket Richard Trophy winner spent the evening with the Beibs at a UFC event. Cue more spotlight, please.

I feel bad for Salming, Sittler, Clark and the like.

Guys who didn’t make big money and were subject to poor team management decisions.

Today’s new generation of Leaf fans hasn’t paid

their dues like some of us (former) die-hards. You’re surely not a Leaf fan because of winning. There’s been none of that.

You’re caught up in the Leaf corporation’s media and marketing frenzy. You wear a glitzy team third sweater adorned with the names of (“zero goals in 18 playoff games”) Marner and (“I’m with Beibs”) Matthews.

It’s safe to say my next dog won’t be named either Mitch or Austin.

Alas, serenity now.

Consider yourself saved.

I’m now “Krackin’ for the Kraken.”

32

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