River Valley Sun March 2022 Vol. 4 Iss. 3

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“Entity 72 makes no sense” Meductic Mayor, council say ‘forced’ amalgamation too big and too costly

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

G

overnment promises of “no forced amalgamation” quickly disappeared late last year as the province imposed municipal reform with little or no input from the affected communities, say Meductic’s mayor and council.

Mayor Lance Graham and Coun. Randy Stairs met with the River Valley Sun at the Meductic Community Centre to explain their deep concerns surrounding the planned creation of Entity 72, a massive municipality encompassing the villages of Meductic and Canterbury

and four local service districts.

To emphasize the massive physical dimensions of the proposed new municipality, Graham explained it takes more than an hour to drive from his village on the shores of the St. John River to Forest City, a small hamlet beyond the region’s lake area, on the CanadaU.S. border.

The Meductic mayor said his village risks losing the fiscally and culturally effective community leadership it established over several decades as the government forces it to

amalgamate with communities that don’t share common interests.

“It doesn’t make any sense,” Graham said.

“Great people out there and all, but it doesn’t make any sense for us. Looking out for the needs out there (other Entity 72 communities) and our needs here (Meductic) are two different things.”

Graham said he could provide a long list of concerns about the province’s municipal reform package, but the biggest, from Meductic’s perspective, See MEDUCTIC on page 2

Meductic Mayor Lance Graham and other members of council say proposed Entity 72 is too big, and will be too costly to be effective. (Jim Dumville photo)

Province asks union for retro-pay extension

Premier blames delays on ’unprecedented volume’ of contracts; union says move ‘speaks volumes to the disrespect we’ve dealt with’

TRY THE LATEST

By Theresa Blackburn

HEARING AIDS

W

hen nearly 22,000 CUPE members signed union contracts with the New Brunswick government in December 2021, everyone who spent three weeks on the picket lines last fall expected to receive their retroactive pay within the mandated 90 days.

On March 3, the New Brunswick Finance and Treasury Board sent letters to four union locals requesting extensions on issuing retro pay for nearly

3,500 employees.

Union Local 2745 was the only local that agreed to the province’s proposed extension. Officials with the Finance and Treasury Board say the payments are expected to come before the end of April.

CUPE union locals 1190, 1251, and 1418 denied the government’s request to set a new deadline of July 1.

Shawna Morton is the CUPE Local 1418 president, representing the reSee UNION on page 4

CUPE 1418 President Shawna Morton says her local is looking at legal options after the province missed the March 14 retro-pay deadline for members. (Submitted photo)

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MEDUCTIC Continued from page 1

comes down to “cost and size.”

He believes the plan will prove costly to Meductic and other taxpayers, and the proposed Entity 72 is too physically large to effectively govern as a single municipality.

Entity 72 will include Meductic, Canterbury, the Canterbury LSD, Debec LSD, Benton LSD and North Lake LSD. Stairs said the plans for municipal reform arrived on their doorstep without any input from council members or residents. He said most residents know little or nothing about what’s in store for them.

“Ninety per cent of the public are in the dark about this,” Stairs said.

He said the government released its green and white papers on municipal reform, quickly pushed through the legislation with little public information and enacted it without explaining its impact on citizens.

“People are not going to sit down and read a 70page document,” Stairs said.

He said the Meductic council lacks the information to inform constituents.

“They don’t tell us until it’s too late to do anything

UNION Continued from page 1

hab and therapy group, including social workers, human resource development officers, correctional programmers, probation officers, housing program officers, human rights officers, psychologists, and recreation and culture programmers.

“Our lawyers are now exploring legal options,” said Morton. “We’ve been told they haven’t even started our calculations yet. We have some pretty angry people on our hands right now.”

Local 1418 retro-payouts are expected to average $22,000 (gross) per employee.

“My members have been waiting four years.

The contract we negotiated actually runs out in six months. This speaks volumes to the disrespect

about it,” Stairs said.

He said the White Paper killed verbal promises from Local Government and Local Government Reform Minister Daniel Allain, his deputy minister and MLA Richard Ames that they wouldn’t be forced to accept the proposed reform packages.

Graham and Stairs said the provincial government never provided Meductic elected officials, staff or residents with a say in the formation of Entity 72.

They said the first accurate indication about the reform came in December when they held meetings with representatives of the other communities becoming part of Entity 72.

Graham said they met with Ames before those meetings, asking about costs, the future of local fire departments and other issues, but the MLA provided little information.

“I was brushed off and just told to go to your meeting, right,” the mayor said.

Once Meductic officials attended the committee meetings, Stairs said they got the impression their attendance meant they agreed with plans for Entity 72.

Graham and Stairs agree New Brunswick needs municipal reform, and local service districts need a local voice. Still, the

new system must be manageable and not threaten individual communities like Meductic.

“Everyone understands reform is needed,” Stairs said, “But you can’t have an entity designed to reform cost-cutting run by people who got the province in the financial mess it’s in.”

He said Meductic residents have no problem with residents in the other communities, but the communities are run differently and have sharply divergent interests and goals.

Graham said Meductic asked to expand its boundaries several years ago, suggesting a larger community encompassing the Meductic Fire Department’s coverage area. He said local government officials responded they would have to cover the maintenance of the old Trans Canada Highway, knowing the tax base would make it unaffordable for the village.

“It was dead in the water right there,” he said.

Meductic risks being swallowed up by Entity 72, Graham said, noting that it has the lowest population base of the six communities except for Benton. It also has one of the lowest tax bases.

For example, he noted, despite similar populations between 200 and 250 resi-

dents, the North Lake tax base is approximately $65 million, compared to Meductic’s $15 million. The Canterbury LSD has a tax base above $75 million, compared to the village of Canterbury’s $14 million.

The Debec LSD has the largest population of approximately 700 people.

Graham said the community that feared getting swallowed up by Woodstock could now swallow up Meductic.

Meductic elected officials fear significant tax increases in which they will have little influence.

They say the town’s highly efficient fire department, which works closely with council, could be at risk.

Stairs also expressed concern that many of the services and decisions affecting the small village and the entire new community will be handed over to the Western Valley Regional Service Commission.

“The RSCs will do all the heavy lifting,” he said, noting the village already has a poor relationship with the commission.

Stairs said Meductic is not the only New Brunswick community afraid of what the enforced reform means to the future of their communities.

“This will shake every corner of the province,” he said.

we’ve dealt with all through this process,” said Morton.

Morton says the optics of the delay request after the government announced a nearly $500 million surplus are horrible.

After the memo was distributed, Morton said her members were nearly as angry as the day they went on strike.

“We’ve got members who really need that money. There are all kinds of hardships from that money not being issued on time.”

Premier Blaine Higgs was apologetic when asked about his government’s request for a delay.

“It’s purely a case of numbers,” said Higgs during a media Zoom call on March 10.

“This is the first time in history that we’ve settled with, like, 20 or more unions at once. It’s a combination of events – the large numbers, the timing, and having to go back four years,” the premier added.

Morton says Higgs’ explanation provides cold comfort to her members.

“We definitely understand workload issues.

Our group is forced to do more with less all the time.

We have extreme recruitment and retention issues

with some of the classifications.”

Morton added that her staff are asked to work overtime to meet mandated deadlines and doesn’t understand why the treasury board didn’t do the same.

“To ask us for an extension at the last minute when our members were promised their retro pay would be on time demonstrates disrespect,” she said.

The premier said he hoped the delayed retropay would be issued well before the July 1 extension request.

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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?

Here are the numbers to call:

RCMP/Woodstock Police Upper River Valley Hospital Hôtel Dieu – Perth-Andover Woodstock Mental Health Perth-Andover Mental Health After Hours Mobile Crisis CHIMO Telecare Nackawic Health Centre Tobique Valley Comm. Health Kids Help Phone Dept. of Social Development

911 375-5900 273-7100 325-4419 273-4701 1-888-667-0444 1-800-667-5005 811 575-6600 356-6600 1-800-668-6868 1-833-733-7835

Help for DRUG ADDICTION

Hope for Wellness Helpline 1-855-242-3310 Offering immediate help to Indigenous peoples across Canada.

Available 24/7, it offers counselling and crisis intervention.

Al-Anon Family Group Woodstock 506-328-6122 For friends and family of alcoholics, meets Wednesdays 7-8 pm at the Woodstock Baptist Church, 785 Main St., Woodstock Woodstock Addictions and Mental Health 506-325-4419 Mon-Fri 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Perth-Andover Addictions and Mental Health 506-273-4701 Mon-Fri 8:30 am - 4:30 pm Mental Health Mobile Crisis Unit 1-888-667-0444 - 7 days a week from 2 - 10 pm Inpatient Detoxification Services: access by self-referral only; all admissions are voluntary. The detoxification unit provides inpatient treatment for the withdrawal from mood altering substances such as alcohol, cocaine, opiates and other drugs.

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

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

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

Early Recovery Group, Woodstock - each Wednesday (unless school is closed due to weather) from 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. at Bicentennial Boardroom (1st Floor), 200 King Street, Bicentennial Place, Woodstock, NB Early Recovery Group in Perth-Andover - each Tuesday at 1 p.m. at the Mental Health and Addictions at 35F Tribe Rd., Perth-Andover, NB Harvest House Woodstock hosts MAMA Meetings (Mothers Against Meth Addiction) on 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 info: 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

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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‘He met, he listened, that’s about it’

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA

3

Daughter of man killed in nursing home attack not convinced Minister Fitch will act on Senior Advocate report recommendations

By Jim Dumville Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

T

he daughter of the man at the heart of a scathing Senior Advocate report is not convinced New Brunswick Senior Development Minister Bruce Fitch will follow through with the 13 detailed recommendations outlined in the report.

Karen Sullivan, whose father died two years ago following injuries suffered in a physical attack by another nursing home resident, left a March 3 meeting with the minister unimpressed.

“In many ways, it was exactly what I expected.

Not much,” said Sullivan.

“He met, and he listened, that’s about it.”

Sullivan’s father, Peter DeMerchant, was the subject of the then Senior Advocate Norm Bossé’s investigation following DeMerchant’s family’s long effort to find answers to the 91-year-old’s death described as a homicide.

In the public report where DeMerchant was named “George” to protect

the confidentiality of those involved, Bossé cited numerous shortcomings on behalf of the nursing home’s administration and staff and officials within New Brunswick’s Department of Social Development.

Key findings in the detailed report released on Jan. 27 cited failure of the nursing home to inform DeMerchant’s family of details surrounding three separate injuries he suffered shortly after moving into the nursing home. The family later discovered all three resulted from physical attacks, including the final one, which left DeMerchant with a broken hip. He later died in the hospital.

Both DeMerchant and his attacker were diagnosed with dementia. The report admonished the nursing home’s failure to take steps to keep the men apart despite the apparent danger. It cited at least nine occasions where the aggressive resident attacked

others.

Among the many criticisms outlined in the report, Bossé cited the nursing home’s failure to complete required reports, Social Development staff’s failure to carry out a thorough investigation and the department’s lack of oversight of nursing homes.

Minister Fitch responded to Bossé’s recommendations in a press release on Feb. 18.

“It is a priority of the department to ensure that seniors are very well looked after in all long-term care facilities,” said Social Development Minister Bruce Fitch. “The situation depicted in this report is not something we are taking lightly. We have reviewed all the recommendations thoroughly, and we will be taking any necessary measures to address related issues.”

The release included the minister’s response to each of the Senior Advocate’s 13 recommendations. Sullivan said she read the response, but saw little detail on how or when

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Peter DeMerchant’s family is not convinced Social Development Minister Bruce Fitch will follow through on 13 recommendations outlined in a report released after an investigation into DeMerchant’s death. He died after being attacked by a fellow resident of his nursing home in the summer of 2019. (Submitted photo)

the department would implement the essential changes.

Besides, she said, the department ignored regulations already in place during her father’s injuries.

“Even if standards are there, they’re not followed,” Sullivan said. “That’s the problem.”

She added that to her knowledge, the minister failed to hold anyone responsible for the gross failures surrounding her father’s case. In fact, she noted, the minister continues to praise his department and nursing home officials, despite the significant problems uncovered

by Bossé.

“We have full confidence in the commitment and ability of nursing home operators and staff to safeguard the well-being and

safety of their residents,” said Fitch.

“Nursing homes, in particular, follow best clinical practices in aiming to reduce aggressive behaviour, including a person-centred approach by offering attention to individual residents to help relieve anxiety.”

Minister Fitch declined River Valley Sun’s request for an interview, citing privacy regulations.

Sullivan said her meeting with Fitch, which included Carleton-Victoria MLA Margaret Johnson, proved short. She said the minister listened to what she had to say but offered little feedback.

She said Fitch did say he felt bad, suggesting they are misinterpreting what he is saying and doing.

While holding little faith

in the department, Sullivan remains hopeful that new Senior Advocate Kelly Lamrock and his staff will ensure the recommendations are implemented and followed.

Since her family’s pursuit of answers became public, Sullivan said, several people reached out to them about issues they faced dealing with nursing homes.

She said most predate her father’s death, but they didn’t have the time or means to push the issue.

Sullivan said most people don’t know where to turn.

Sullivan said she regrettably couldn’t respond to all those who reached out to her and her family, noting the long and demanding process has taken its toll.

“It’s draining. It’s frustrating,” Sullivan said.

4

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA

Open house planned to address municipal reform

5

Woodstock mayor expects public meeting to be held at AYR Motor Centre in April

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A

s ongoing plans move forward to amalgamate Woodstock and five surrounding local service districts into what the Department of Local Government and Local Reform call Entity 73, Woodstock Mayor Art Slipp wants to provide community residents with a better understanding of what is happening.

During the March 8 Woodstock council meeting, Slipp provided an update on the process to date, something he plans to do weekly. He said he and CAO Andrew Garnett would deliver updates at every council and councilin-committee meeting.

The Woodstock mayor said he is working with representatives of the other communities to schedule a municipal-reform open house at the AYR Motor

Centre in Woodstock soon.

He said the elected members’ committee meets again on March 17 and should set an exact date for the event at that time.

Slipp expects to hold the public meeting sometime in April, offering an opportunity for residents of all the amalgamating communities to find answers to their many questions.

Entity 73 will encompass the town of Woodstock, the Upper and Lower Northampton LSD, part of the Northampton LSD, the Woodstock LSD, part of the Richmond LSD and part of the Wakefield LSD. Slipp said the exact boundaries are almost finalized.

With several committees at work finalizing plans for the new larger community, Slipp said he wants to

see closer coordination between the committees. He said he sits on the elected members’ committee while Garnett sits on the administrative committee. He said government-appointed liaison Don Ferguson advises both committees, as he does committees established in neighbouring planned entities.

Meanwhile, Slipp said, he is also involved in the committee planning changes for the Western Valley Regional Service Commission, which has a different government liaison.

Under the government’s planned municipal reform legislation, Slipp said, the province’s 12 RSCs are responsible for several local services. He said it is crucial how and who delivers those services.

As an executive mem-

ber of the Union of New Brunswick Municipalities (UMNB), Slipp explained he’s privy to actions the union is taking to improve the flow of information to its member and the New Brunswick public.

He said UMNB approached Local Government and Local Municipal Reform representatives to find answers to several questions regarding the reform plans.

Coun. Trina Jones, who represents Woodstock at UMNB, said she received copies of those questions and answers, which she shared with council and will share with the public on the Town of Woodstock Website.

The municipal plan, including amalgamation, calls for elections in November, with the new municipalities in place for the start of 2023. Slipp said the

(File photo)

committee agreed to a new council featuring a ward system in a previous report.

The eight-member council will elect four council members from Woodstock and one council member for each of four wards in the outlying areas. All voters in Entity 73 will select the mayor.

Slipp said committee members agreed it should do the minimum required to form the new combined community. He said it should be up to the newly elected council to make de-

cisions going forward, including tax rates, budgets and other decisions.

Garnett also provided an update from the administration committee, agreeing it is essential for all committees to work in unison. He said a key focus for his committee is to establish or amend bylaws for the amalgamated communities. *Note: Check out the River Valley News Facebook page for other Woodstock council stories and information.

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Travelling as the world opens up

We need to remain vigilant on the journey back to ‘normal’

DISPATCHES FROM MY MESSY DESK

By Theresa Blackburn

M

y husband and I did something highly unusual in early March. We travelled for the first time in two years – to Florida.

If you had asked me in January when I thought we’d be travelling again, I would have told you 2023 or later, but that was before our daughter caught COVID-19. After that experience, our worries lessened.

Why? Because while our youngest contracted the virus, my husband and I were able to avoid it – even though we lived in the same home.

We’ve been cautious since the pandemic began. Our vigilance never waned.

As soon as Kathryn tested positive, she isolated in our basement, and we began operating like a quarantine hotel.

The situation got us thinking. If we could avoid COVID while living with someone with the virus, we knew we could likely avoid it while travelling.

We were nervous. In January, Florida averaged between 25,000 and 50,000 new cases a day. By the time we travelled, the daily average was closer to 3,000.

We drove to Bangor, got on a plane with our KN95 masks, and said a prayer. It was a full flight, but a direct one, meaning less interaction with people in airports. We rented a car so we could avoid public transit. We ate meals outside or went to restaurants after 7:30 to avoid crowds.

We visited Epcot, donned our masks for all inside rides and displays, and wore them outside when we walked through hundreds of people.

We heard a few people say, “Really?” as they passed. While in a lineup at Epcot, one young girl whispered a little too loudly to her father, “why are they wearing masks?”

“Because,” he said, spinning her around to face the front of the line, “they’re scaredy cats.”

A 72-year-old waitress at an Italian restaurant was adamant.

“Honey, you don’t have to wear that in here. You’re in the free state now,” she said.

Despite these few, uncomfortable moments, we had a wonderful trip that included napping by the pool, walking on the beach, sightseeing, eating at different res-

taurants, exploring sections of the city on foot, taking dips in the hotel’s outdoor hot tub, and getting our feet wet in the ocean.

We enjoyed every second before our drivethru rapid COVID tests at Walgreens (both negative) and packing for the flight home.

I needed this trip. I have struggled mentally since Christmas. Two years of panic, worry, lockdowns and mandates have done a number on my brain. I spent most of January and February struggling with workload, my emotions, and getting out of bed.

As the world continues to ‘open up’ despite the still-threatening presence of a virus that targets our most vulnerable, my brain still isn’t quite sure what to think.

I have immunocompromised friends who could die if they get it. The virus killed a close friend of ours this winter. Katherine MacMaster was 53. Her death continues to rattle me.

The pandemic is far from over. COVID isn’t going away anytime soon, even if the world is acting like it is. I would love to see those with underlying conditions being able to safely enjoy life outside their home, because we have all chosen to respect their health needs.

Even though masks will no longer be required, I’ll be masking in stores and indoor events for quite a while.

Stories shared by those suffering with ‘long COVID’ are a reminder that this is far from ‘just a cold’ and that we should avoid it.

Theresa and Stephen with Spaceship Earth at Epcot. (Stephen Chisholm photo)

I’ve done my duty in protecting myself and others until now. My health and the health of vulnerable family and friends still deserves my continued vigilance.

Theresa Blackburn publishes the River Valley Sun and ageless New Brunswick magazine with her husband, Stephen Chisholm. They live and volunteer in Woodstock.

Letters to the Editor

Frustrated with amalgamation plans in Plaster Rock region

T

o the editor: I am a concerned LSD Gordon citizen. I recently learned Minister Allain dismissed the recommendation of the amalgamation facilitator along with the LSD advisory committee regarding the makeup of the new council for Entity 78 (LSD Gordon, Plaster Rock and LSD Lorne/ Riley Brook).

The new council was supposed to consist of three councillors from Gordon, two from Plaster Rock and one from Lorne.

Minister Allain dismissed the recommendation and changed it so Plaster Rock would have three, Gordon two and Lorne one. This change does NOT represent the democratic process. Gordon has a much larger population and should have the highest number of councillors.

Even in extenuating circumstances, Elections NB will allow a variance of 30 per cent. The proposed new make-up would be far greater than a 30 per cent variance.

The population of Gordon is 1,559,

Plaster Rock is 1,002, and Lorne is 313.

Under the proposed structure, there will be one Plaster Rock councillor per 334 people, one Gordon councillor per 780 people, and one Lorne councillor for their population of 313. With the previously proposed recommendation, the numbers would be Plaster Rock with 501 per councillor to Gordon’s 519. Numbers do not lie!

This structure will leave the citizens of the LSD without a voice AGAIN. Our surrounding communities have very little and

will continue to have very little outside and inside town limits.

Town councillors have reacted by saying the infrastructure and water/sewage are very complicated; however, many highly educated and reasonable citizens live in the surrounding LSDs. We want the best for all involved with these new entities but under a fair democratic process.

Trish Kennedy Concerned citizen in the Gordon LSD

Open letter to Carleton Victoria MLA Margaret Johnson

D

ear Honourable Margaret Johnson: I am writing to you to bring attention to the Old Florenceville Bridge. It is still closed and is becoming an eyesore, and the bridge floor is covered in pigeon excrement and carcasses (mostly feathers).

Most egregiously, the flags represent-

ing Canada, New Brunswick, and the town are in tatters. Recently I contacted the Florenceville-Bristol town office and spoke to Michelle Derrah. She said the flags could not be replaced because vehicle access to the bridge was impossible.

Attached are some pictures of the

state of affairs: one picture shows parts of the Canadian flag in pigeon dung. I most sincerely hope that you will get the bridge open very soon since, in its current state, it presents an exceedingly bad image of the town and makes a bad light of the town’s efforts to attract tourists and residents.

The continued closure of the bridge would seem to merit that the citizens of Northern Carleton County start a renewed publicity campaign to reopen the bridge.

David Hunter Florenceville-Bristol

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COURT NEWS

A roundup of cases processed through Woodstock Provincial Court

By Judy Cole-Underhill and 10 gunshots, four of Newburg man faces prison for arson and gunfire Acts of revenge involving arson and gunfire will mean a lengthy federal prison term for a Newburg man who targeted local citizens for helping police.

Matthew Johnston, 32, appeared in court in custody for sentencing on March 2. After hearing the evidence, Judge Lucie N. Mathurin reserved her decision until March 23 at 9:30 a.m. Johnston has been in custody for more than 300 days.

He pleaded guilty to causing damage by fire to two vehicles owned

by Campbell’s Towing and Auto Sales Ltd. in Woodstock, discharging a firearm at Campbell’s home in Jacksonville, while being reckless as to whether a person was present there and possession of a firearm while prohibited. The RCMP laid charges following incidents on Oct. 18-19, 2020.

The court heard Johnston, and a male accomplice, drove to a parking lot at night at Campbell’s business on Connell Street.

Two vehicles, a 1968 Chevelle and a 1980 Thunderbird, were burned. Video surveillance revealed the vehicles were set on fire with gasoline and the culprits making a speedy exit in a dark model sedan.

The fire was set the day after Campbell’s Towing was called to tow away stolen property in Newburg as part of a police investigation. The property involved stolen lumber, a truck, and several ATVs. The court heard a woman contacted the business, stating she owned the truck and wanted it back. The towing company could not comply with her request because police had seized the vehicle Around 3 a.m. the following day, the Campbell home in Jacksonville was peppered with gunfire. The family was home at the time. They heard a loud car at the end of the driveway

which entered the bedroom where Campbell’s wife had been sleeping. Investigators found one bullet in a pillow.

Crown Prosecutor Brian Munn described the crimes as “horrific serious offences” that make the public hesitant to assist the police.

“They targeted the Campbells for no reason other than for helping the police tow some stuff,” Munn said, adding the business owners were just doing their job.

Police located the vehicle involved in both crimes in a driveway in Holmesville. They also found a shotgun.

Johnston’s accomplice, Colby Davenport, arrested at the scene, gave a statement about the incidents, identifying Johnston as the ringleader. Davenport said he was driving the car used in the arson and the shooting, and they also had a passenger, Dustin Broad.

Police arrested Johnston at the Walmart in Fredericton. The court heard there appeared to be two shooters during the gunfire at the Campbell residence.

Munn said Johnston deserved 10-12 years in jail, but the crown asked for eight years due to a Charter violation during the police investigation. Police were unlawfully tracking the accused on his phone in an attempt to locate him.

Munn said Johnston victimized law-abiding citizens, and the court must send a strong message that “you will be gone, you will be removed from society” for such action. He noted Johnston had a lengthy criminal record.

“This was a targeted, back-to-back, night after night excursion of revenge,” Munn stated.

He said the Campbells incurred a financial loss for the two burned vehicles and are dealing with increased insurance costs for their business and home due to both incidents. Due to safety concerns, they moved out of the house in

Jacksonville and installed video surveillance at a new residence.

“They (Campbells) certainly seem to be struggling on a daily basis due to the emotional impact of these crimes,” Munn stated.

Defence Counsel Gwynne Hearn asked the court to consider a six and a half year sentence for Johnston, minus two years for the Charter violation and almost a year already spent in custody. Hearn said no one was injured in the shooting, and Johnston took responsibility for his role in both incidents.

“This is out of character for his prior history,” Hearn said. “It was the first such violent incident considering his past.”

Hearn said Johnston was having a rough time in custody due to conditions at the jail. He has been in custody since the pandemic began and contracted COVID-19.

Colby Davenport, 32, will appear for sentencing in provincial court on March 25 at 1:30 p.m. He pleaded guilty to arson and being an accessory to the shooting.

After almost a year in custody, he was released with strict conditions until sentencing, including house arrest and wearing an electronic monitoring device attached to his ankle.

Woodstock man to undergo assessment A local man has been ordered to undergo a 30day mental health assessment concerning a fire that destroyed an apartment building on Union Street in Woodstock on Jan. 29.

Alexander Reese Gerdts, 30, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on March 2.

Woodstock Police charged him with arson and resisting arrest.

Defence Counsel Lindsay Paul requested her client receive a mental health assessment for criminal responsibility, saying Gerdts may have suffered from a mental disorder.

Paul said he was treated

in hospital for mental health issues shortly before the fire, and evidence indicated he may have been delusional and hearing voices at the time of the offence.

Judge Lucie N. Mathurin ordered a psychiatric assessment in Restigouche and told Gerdts he would return to court on April 1 at 10:30 a.m. After his arrest, he underwent a five-day mental health assessment where he was found fit to stand trial and remanded.

Jail sentence for hospital assault Jesse Wellwood-Bryant, 28, of Woodstock was sentenced March 8 to a total of three months in jail for a violent temper tantrum at the Upper River Valley Hospital in Waterville.

Wellwood-Bryant was found guilty after trial in relation to the incident on Nov. 3, 2019. He was found guilty of assaulting a nurse and a security guard and threatening a doctor, but not guilty of assault on the doctor.

The accused was placed on probation for 12 months upon his release and ordered to undergo a mental health assessment.

He must also attend counselling for mental health and anger management and have no contact with his victims.

“He was having a temper tantrum because he didn’t get what he wanted,” Judge Leslie Jackson said.

“A strong message needs to be sent that abuse and assaults on personnel in our hospitals will not be tolerated. Those who engage in such behaviour need to be aware that the consequences will be severe.”

As the sentence was imposed, Wellwood-Bryant’s girlfriend and grandmother began to sob and both left the courtroom weeping as sheriffs handcuffed him and took him to jail.

“When will he get out?” his girlfriend said in tears.

“He didn’t deserve that.”

The court heard Wellwood-Bryant went to the hospital for treatment of knee pain and, after wait-

7

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

ing several hours, became aggressive and disrespectful toward a doctor, telling him to go back to his own country, while uttering a racial slur.

As tensions rose, the doctor swung first, hitting him in the face and knocking him to the floor. The accused then lost complete control and tried to attack the doctor. A nurse attempted to intercede and Wellwood-Bryant slapped her face while wiping blood on her. A security guard then arrived on the scene and subdued him.

Wellwood-Bryant struck the guard in the face, amid yelling and screaming in the hospital and uttering death threats.

Judge Jackson said Wellwood-Bryant was “loud, vulgar and insulting” while in the hospital emergency department and began to throw chairs while in the waiting area. While being removed from the building, he was “giving the finger,” to the police officers who attended the scene.

RCMP laid the charges.

Judge Jackson agreed with the crown that such behaviour in a hospital setting must be denounced.

Victoria County man guilty of chaining, whipping woman Wesley John Daye, 52, of Crombie Settlement, appeared in provincial court in custody on Feb. 28 and pleaded guilty to four of six charges involving the chaining and whipping of a woman during a domestic dispute.

Daye waived his right to a bail hearing, and the matter was set over for sentencing until March 24 at 1:30 p.m. He remains in custody. Police arrested Daye on a warrant following incidents on Jan. 16-17 near Plaster Rock.

RCMP charged him with unlawful confinement, two counts of assaulting a female victim with weapons (a leather belt, leather dog leash, choker chain, and shock collar with remote), assault and assault using suffocation, and uttering

threats to cause death or bodily harm.

The court heard Daye put shackles on a woman and chained her to a couch.

He threatened her life, put an electric dog collar around her neck, whipped her with a leather belt, and hit her with a piece of wood. The victim told police he also dragged her by the hair, punched her in the head, and sat on her chest several times while smothering her with a pillow.

The assault and confinement went on for several hours. The violence erupted with Daye accusing alleged infidelity, which the woman continued to deny despite her beating.

When Daye set her free, it was to attend an appointment with social services and get groceries in town.

She got dressed and put on makeup to cover the bruises on her face.

Daye grew angry again and backhanded her in the face on the way home. She complained about something in her eye and slipped away to a neighbour to call for help. She was taken to the hospital to treat multiple bruises to her legs and most of her body. Police arrested Daye after finding him hiding in a crawl space under a floor at his house.

Before Judge Brian C. McLean, Daye admitted to attacking the woman as charged at his court appearance.

“Did you do those things?” Judge McLean asked after hearing the evidence.

“Yes, I did,” Daye said.

Judge McLean ordered a victim impact statement before sentencing. Defence Counsel David Lutz agreed a pre-sentence report for the accused could also be completed.

Facing drug and weapon charges Frederick Richard, 33, of Lower Woodstock appeared in provincial court in custody for a bail hearing on March 11. He was released with conditions until See COURT on pg. 9

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COURT cont’d April 12 at 9:30 a.m. when he will enter a plea on a charge of breaching his release order.

Richard will also appear in provincial court on April 12 for plea on several charges laid by RCMP. He first appeared in provincial court in custody on Dec. 17, 2021, and was released with conditions. On March 8, the matter was adjourned to allow the accused more time to secure legal counsel. The court also heard he would return on March 22 to answer a new charge of possession of methamphetamine.

Richard is charged by RCMP with unsafe storage of a firearm, possession of firearms without a licence, possession of a prohibited weapon (brass knuckles), possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking, and indictable possession, concerning an incident on Dec. 17, 2021, at Beardsley Road. Richard also faces charges of breach of an undertaking, stealing mail, committing mischief and driving while suspended concerning a separate incident on May 10, 2021.

The other charges were laid after police executed a search warrant at a residence on Beardsley Road as part of a drug investigation. During the search, police seized significant quantities of methamphetamine. Police also seized three firearms, ammunition, other prohibited weapons, money and three BB guns. A 32-year-old woman arrested at the scene was released from custody and is scheduled to appear in court on March 22.

Still in custody after machete incident Brandon Alton Cullins, 35, of East Brighton, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on March 8 and returns for plea on March 22 at 2:30 p.m. He was denied bail at an earlier court appearance concerning a police stand-off on Feb. 1 on Beardsley Road in Woodstock.

He was charged by Woodstock Police with possession of a prohibited weapon (brass knuckles), possession of a weapon dangerous to the public peace (a machete), committing mischief, uttering threats, assaulting a police officer with a weapon, attempting to break and enter a dwelling house, and possession of methamphetamine in relation to the incident.

Police were called to the scene on Beardsley Road and closed down the street

for more than an hour while convincing a man to drop his weapons and give himself up. He was transported to the hospital for treatment of frostbite to his hands and feet due to bitter cold temperatures at minus 30 degrees Celsius. The court heard the individual had been outside watching the residence for several hours. A set of brass knuckles were found frozen in his hand.

The incident began when the individual showed up at the door of a residence around 6 a.m. wielding a machete. When police arrived, he began threatening suicide. He had a machete in his right hand, brass knuckles in his left hand, a knife at his waist, and a pocket full of methamphetamine. He eventually surrendered to the police after being tasered.

RCMP charged Cullins with assault causing bodily harm to a female victim, assault with a weapon (an axe handle), uttering threats, and indictable assault involving an attack on the same woman with a broom handle. These charges were laid in relation to another incident between Jan. 30 and 31 in Mainstream.

The court heard the woman was taken to the hospital to treat a broken arm.

Sentencing rescheduled in case of loaded handgun Chance Leslie, 28, of Middle Hainesville, will appear for sentencing in provincial court on March 24 at 1:30 p.m. after changing his plea to guilty to nine of 14 charges laid by RCMP. Leslie was arrested following a single-vehicle crash in Florenceville-Bristol on Aug. 2, 2021, when police seized a loaded handgun.

He has been in custody since his arrest. Leslie appeared in court in custody by video on March 7. His sentencing date was rescheduled during the hearing.

He pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm while prohibited from having it, possession of a loaded, restricted firearm (a Glock nine-millimetre pistol) without a licence, carrying a concealed restricted weapon, possession of a gun with the serial number altered, defaced or removed, possession of a firearm dangerous to the public peace, resisting arrest, assaulting a police officer, theft of a motor vehicle (a 2006 Toyota Corolla), and possession of stolen property.

Sentencing reset on six charges Lance Paul Claus, 24, of Newburg, will appear

in provincial court for sentencing on March 24 at 1:30 p.m. He appeared in court on March 1 when Judge Brian C. McLean reserved his decision until his next court appearance. On March 7, the sentencing was adjourned to the new date.

Claus pleaded guilty in November to flight from police, dangerous driving and committing mischief causing property damage to a police vehicle in relation to an April 25, 2021 incident. He also pleaded guilty to two counts of unlawfully being at large while under a release order to follow a curfew concerning incidents between June 4 and Aug. 21, 2021, in Woodstock.

Woodstock Police and RCMP laid the charges.

The court heard Claus led police on a chase from Grafton into the Town of Woodstock before heading up the Trans Canada Highway toward Route 590 and the Rosedale Road. Claus rammed a police cruiser when he finally stopped, causing $4,000 damage.

Sentencing set for breakin Nicholas Shawn Rideout, 35, of Greenfield, appeared in provincial court on March 8 and pleaded guilty to indictable theft over $5,000. Woodstock Police charged him following a break-in at a construction site at 129 Jones Street in Woodstock on Jan. 15.

His sentencing was set for June 14 at 1:30 p.m. Samuel Robert Crewe, 26, of Woodstock, was charged with indictable break, enter, and theft concerning the same incident. Crewe was also charged with two counts of breach of a release order. He pleaded not guilty to the charges, and trial dates were set for March 31 at 9:30 a.m. and June 2 at 9:30 a.m. Crewe waived his bail and remains in custody.

Hartland area men appear for bail hearings Two Hartland area men appeared in provincial court on March 3 and 4 for their individual bail hearings by video. The RCMP arrested Kristopher Joseph McConnell, 29, of Ashland and Wyatt Delong, 26, of Cloverdale on theft charges, March 1.

The court denied McConnell’s bail, scheduling him to return to court by video for a plea on March 22 at 11 a.m. He remains in custody. McConnell faces charges of possession of a prohibited weapon, brass knuckles; possession of stolen property, a snowmobile; possession of tools for break and enter; posses-

sion of a concealed weapon, a knife, and possession of a prohibited weapon while prohibited from having it, stemming from a Feb. 28 incident at Wilmot.

On March 4, police charged McConnell with stealing gas from Kojax Petro Canada in Hartford on Feb. 28.

The court released Delong with conditions, scheduling him to return to court for a plea on March 22 at 9:30 a.m. Delong faces charges of breach of an undertaking, possession of stolen property, a snowmobile, and possession of break-in tools in connection with the same incident on Feb. 28 at Wilmot.

On March 22, Delong will also answer to charges of assault causing bodily harm to a female victim on June 12, 2021, at Wilmot, and possession of a firearm without a licence, a 32cal lever-action Winchester Model 94, involving another incident on Aug. 1, 2021, at Centreville. On March 3, two other counts of breach of an undertaking were also laid against Delong.

Woodstock woman gets more jail time Laurie Ann Fleming, 37, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on March 4 for sentencing on a series of charges laid by RCMP and Woodstock Police.

Judge Brian C. McLean sentenced her to a total of 390 days in jail, minus time served. The court heard she has been in custody for 296 days and would be released when the remainder of her sentence is served.

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA The court ordered Fleming to register for the federal DNA database, and she was placed on probation for one year upon her release.

Sentencing included a oneyear driving prohibition and a 10-year prohibition on firearms. Fleming must also attend counselling for mental health, anger management and substance abuse Fleming pleaded guilty to two counts of breach of a release order, two counts of committing mischief causing property damage, two counts of obstructing a police officer, break and enter at a dwelling house, one count of assault, flight from police, dangerous driving, and possession of stolen property. The crown withdrew four more charges, including theft of a motor vehicle, breach of a release order, assault, and taking a vehicle without consent.

The charges related to incidents on Sept. 25, 2020, in Grafton, on Jan. 15, 2021, in Upper Brighton, on March 16, 2021, in Woodstock, and on May 5, Aug. 11, and Aug. 18, 2021, in Grafton. She received a suspended sentence for the incidents on Sept. 25, 2020. In imposing sentence, Judge Brian C. McLean said Fleming had no criminal record but noted several of the incidents involved domestic violence.

The judge also said that her flight from police and dangerous driving created a serious risk to the public.

Homeless woman sentenced to time served A young pregnant woman with mental health

9

issues was homeless and living a transient lifestyle in Woodstock until her arrest before Christmas 2021.

Megan Jessica Lewis, 29, of no fixed address, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Feb. 16 for sentencing on four charges laid by Woodstock Police. She was arrested and taken into custody in relation to two separate altercations in the town.

Judge Cameron Gunn sentenced Lewis to 90 days or time served and placed her on probation for 18 months. She was ordered to seek counselling and treatment for mental health and drug addiction and must register with the federal DNA database.

The judge noted Lewis had a difficult life burdened by mental health issues and drug abuse. He encouraged the accused to “accept all help available” and recommended she “take hold of her life” and live better as an expectant mother of twins. The court heard Lewis used crystal meth to self-medicate for anxiety and depression and was homeless for some time prior to her arrest.

Police charged Lewis with assaulting a Woodstock taxi driver on Dec. 9, 2021. Police later picked her up walking along Connell Street.

She also pleaded guilty to committing mischief, assaulting a Canadian Tire employee and assaulting a police officer, during another altercation and was remanded for a five-day mental health assessment.

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’ TAKONUTOMAKONUWAL

(Maliseet word meaning ‘their stories’)

Indigenous News and Features Sponsored by Woodstock First Nation

Parks Canada renews MOU with Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada

By Sam Laskaris Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

P

arks Canada and the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC) have agreed to renew their partnership.

Representatives from the two parties signed a four-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) March 9 in Calgary at the ITAC conference titled “Building Back Better”.

Parks Canada and ITAC reps will work together to support, develop and market authentic Indigenous tourism experiences in locations administered by Parks Canada and in surrounding areas. The agreement runs through to the end of 2025.

“We know that Parks Canada works with hundreds of First Nations communities, primarily, and some Inuit communities and some Métis settlements,” said Keith Henry, ITAC’s president and CEO. Michael Nadler, Parks Canada’s vice-president of external relations and visitor experience, said his agency is pleased to be making a small step in the long journey of reconciliation.

“It’s just a huge privilege to work with ITAC,” he said. “We signed our first MOU in 2016. It has been six years of partnership and collaboration, six years of successes, six years of challenges also. These last two years have not been easy for Parks Canada, ITAC or many of the businesses or organizations in this room.”

The Indigenous tour-

ism industry across Canada has taken a severe beating during the COVID-19 pandemic.

About 400 delegates from Indigenous tourism business operators from across the country are attending this year’s three-day ITAC conference, which began Tuesday and continues until Thursday.

Nadler said Parks Canada is grateful to renew its partnership with ITAC and be a part of the association’s strategic plan also titled Building Back Better.

“Parks Canada works with hundreds of Indigenous businesses, communities, organizations and partners across the country. We know that reconciliation is a journey and we are absolutely committed to that journey,” Nadler said.

“We know it is not a destination,” he said.

“But we also know that we have been granted the care and stewardship of 200 heritage places across the country.”

Prior to the pandemic Parks Canada was welcoming between upwards of 25 million visitors a year to its facilities.

“We’re hoping to regain that 25 million target in the coming three to four years,” Nadler said.

Every single future Parks Canada visit can advance understanding and reconciliation, he said.

“So, each visit can become one small act of reconciliation for one person in Canada or

from locations around the world,” he said.

“Parks Canada recognizes that working in partnership with Indigenous peoples is critical to the protection of national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas and the sharing of the stories of these treasured places,” said Ron Hallman, the president and CEO of Parks Canada.

Hallman said his agency is committed to keep working with Indigenous groups so that Indigenous perspectives, cultures and traditions are shared not only with Canadians but with others from around the world.

“We are proud of the relationship that we’ve developed with the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada over the

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past six years and look forward to continuing to collaborate with them to advance Indigenous tourism in Canada,” Hallman added.

Henry is hoping the renewed MOU with Parks Canada will translate into more positive results.

“What we’re trying to do with this relationship as we rebuild or building back better, is we want to just enhance these kinds of things,” Henry said.

“How can we help Parks Canada and their teams continue to bring more Indigenous experiences to the marketplace? How can we help them shape our understanding of Indigenous market readiness and export readiness? How do we jointly invest in these kinds of video assets and these tools?”

The new Parks Can-

ada/ITAC MOU is expected to help support the recovery of the Indigenous tourism industry.

The MOU will also assist Parks Canada officials to develop an Indigenous Stewardship Framework.

“We’re very excited to see this,” Henry said.

“It’s time to get on with the work of building back better.”

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Woodstock eyeing Deakin Drive walking path

Council instructs staff to apply for funding support

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

W

oodstock council is taking the first steps to secure partial funding and begin laying out plans for the creation of a pedestrian path to run parallel to Deakin Drive.

After debating several options, including what engineers deem to be an expensive concrete sidewalk and curb system along the street, council agreed a separate asphalt path similar to the one through Connell Park as the most affordable and feasible path forward.

At the Woodstock

council meeting on March 8, council directed CAO Andrew Garnett to begin funding applications through the Active Transportation Fund Program to secure funding support for the Deakin project.

Mayor Art Slipp said Garnett or other town staff would need to approach landowners along Deakin to secure agreement to complete the path.

The March 8 motions followed on the heels of several discussions and options for the projects, including Garnett’s detailed account at the

March 1 Committee in Council meeting and the Feb. 22 regular council session.

The March 1 meeting provided feedback from representatives of Dillon Consulting regarding potential cost and hurdles to overcome for the completion of a path along Deakin Driver from Connell Street to Main Street.

Garnett explained the path from Connell to Sanctuary House is straightforward with an estimated cost of approximately $225,000. The consultants said extend-

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Woodstock is taking first steps toward building a paved pedestrian path to run parallel to Deakin Drive. While the section from Connell Street to the Sanctuary House in foreground is relatively simple, the path from Sanctuary House to Maxwell Street requires more engineering and possible an EIA to pass over a small wetland. (Jim Dumville photo)

ing the path from Sanctuary House to Main Street becomes more complicated and expensive, noting the brook running under Deaken near Maxwell Street one of the factors to overcome.

Dillon Consultants Dominic Paulin explained any option must deal with a wetland situated between Sanctuary House and Maxwell Street. He noted the size of the wetland will dictate whether the town requires an environmental impact assessment.

The engineers estimate completion of the trail between Sanctuary House to Maxwell Street would cost $565,000.

The consultants also included costs for culverts needed along Maxwell to range between $335,000 and $430,000 depending on the route used.

The town built Deakin Drive more 25 years ago to serve as a ring road to give heavy traffic, including transports, access between the Grafton Bridge and Connell Street without travelling through downtown or Connell Park.

Unexpectedly, the road became a favourite route for pedestrians and cyclists.

Without sidewalks, people walking are left to use a narrow road shoulder, creating what town officials believe is a danger for pedestrians. The recently completed 10year municipal plan cited the building of sidewalks or a pedestrian path as a priority.

Not everyone on council believes the town should be spending money along Deakin at this time.

“I think it’s a wonderful idea,” said Coun. Randy Leonard, “but our streets are in terrible shape. If we do this, do we have the money for our streets?”

Coun. Trina Jones said she couldn’t disagree with Leonard. While she supports the Deakin project, she asked if the town has the ability to increase funding for town streets.

Garnett explained the advantage of undertaking the project at this time is the available funding support through the Active Transportation Fund Program.

He estimated with funding approval the town would be on the hook for approximately 40 per cent of total cost.

“That is why we’re looking at this now,” said Mayor Slipp. “We want to take advantage of available funding.”

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Protect ‘treasured nature space’ says deputy mayor

Nackawic approaching Nature Trust, AV Nackawic to protect ski club trail and land

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

N

ackawic Deputy Mayor Greg MacFarlane told council Monday, Feb. 22, that the Nackawic Bend Ski Club seeks options to maintain and protect the trail running through one of the more “unique” natural landscapes in the area.

MacFarlane, who attended the meeting by phone as he recovers from COVID-19, said several council members and area residents enjoyed the Nackawic Bend Ski Club for many years. He said he and his wife discovered the club when moving back to the town, noting they got involved in efforts to resurrect the club just over 20 years ago.

They launched Run the River, an annual road race through downtown Nackawic as a fundraiser.

Over nine years, they raised close to $30,000, with about half of the funds going to the three local schools to purchase several sets of skis for school programs.

Part of the money stayed in the club to cover the cost of maintenance, gas and insurance

of a snowmobile. MacFarlane said the club never charged memberships to encourage residents to use the trail.

The deputy mayor explained that the club invested heavily over the past two years, putting a new roof and siding on the cabin. It also added a new deck, installed a washroom and reinforced the floor.

MacFarlane said the club still has funds in its bank account, but it’s depleting as COVID-19 restrictions forced the cancellation of Run the River over the past two years. Even before the cancellation of the annual fundraiser, he said, the long-term future of the trail was a concern.

MacFarlane said protecting the unique section of nature surrounding the trail, including old-growth forests and wildlife habitat, has been on his mind for more than a decade.

“There are all kinds of wildlife out there,” he said.

MacFarlane said he wants to protect the “treasured nature space” for the community.

“I’d like to ensure the longevity of the woodland there, and the environment, ecosystem, the cabin and the trails,” MacFarlane said.

He explained that AV Nackawic owns the woodlot, noting the mill has harvested wood surrounding the area in question.

To secure the natural area, MacFarlane suggested the town approach the Nature Trust to see if the conservation group could work out a deal with AV Nackawic to acquire the land for a protected area.

“Then the town or another entity could possibly lease the land for a dollar,” he said.

The deputy mayor said he talked to Coun. Mike Meade and other club members with his idea.

Meade said he approached an acquaintance at the Nature Trust, who told him he would run the idea past staff and get back to him.

“It seems like a real possibility,” Meade said.

Coun. Bob Simpson said he liked the idea, pointing out much of

The Nackawic Bend Ski Club’s trail and surrounding habitat offers challenges and potential, says Nackawic’s Deputy Mayor Greg MacFarlane and Coun. Mike Meade.

(Photo courtesy of Nackawic Bend Ski Club)

the land, including the cabin, sits within the Southampton parish. He suggested the town approach Southampton’s local service district advisory committee for its input on the idea.

With Nackawic, Southampton and three other communities destined to become a single community, Entity 72, next year as part of the provincial government’s municipal reform, MacFarlane said the new

entity could possibly budget recreational funds to maintain and develop the trail and surrounding land.

He said the trail offers ski opportunities in the winter but could also serve as a biking or hiking trail all year.

Coun. Gail Farnsworth asked MacFarlane about the future of the Run the River event. MacFarlane said he was unsure about the run’s future.

“It’s a lot of work,’ he

said, “it’s a huge endeavour.”

MacFarlane explained his presentation to council was an effort to share his ideas and showcase the challenges and potential for the trail and surrounding habitat. At this point, he said, no concrete measures are in place.

He told the River Valley Sun on March 7 that he had “nothing new” to add since his Feb. 22 presentation.

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RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 13

Nackawic deputy mayor concerned with proposed council design

Plans for new entity would give town only two of seven council seats

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

A

s plans begin in earnest to gather Nackawic and surrounding communities into the expanded Entity 71 municipality in the province’s Local Government reform process, the town’s deputy mayor raised concerns about the proposed council format.

Deputy Mayor Greg MacFarlane — who joined the Tuesday, Feb 22 council meeting by phone as he recovers from COVID-19 — suggested a council design featuring only two Nackawic representatives on a seven-member council could place the town’s essential infrastructure projects at risk.

He used upgrades to Otis Drive as an example, saying if Nackawic wanted to invest in significant pav-

ing and street improvements, councillors from outlying communities could vote down the plan.

During an update of preliminary meetings of the municipal reform committee, Mayor Ian Kitchen explained the proposed council would feature seven councillors elected through a ward system and a mayor elected at large.

Entity 71, as currently recommended, will include Nackawic, Millville, the Southampton LSD, 50 per cent of the Queensbury LSD and 95 per cent of the Dumfries LSD. Exact boundaries are subject to change before completing the final provincial map.

Kitchen said the proposed council would elect one member per 500 popu-

lation.

Under that format, explained Coun. Bob Simpson, Nackawic and the large Southampton LSD will feature two wards each, while Millville and the Queensbury and Dumfries LSDs would have one each.

Responding to the deputy mayor’s concerns, Simpson said the proposed tax system would reflect services delivered to voters, adding taxes raised in current communities would be directed towards that community. Kitchen committed to raising MacFarlane’s concerns at a future meeting.

Simpson, who joins the mayor on the municipal reform committee, reflected on the years of coopera-

(File photo)

tion between Nackawic and surrounding communities, which he hopes will continue after completing the municipal reform.

“It’s absolutely essential we think as a region,” he said. “We should be able to without abandoning infrastructure in the town.”

As one of five partners forming Entity 71, Simpson said he hopes and expects each partner to show the

goodwill needed to grow as a community.

MacFarlane said he couldn’t disagree with anything Coun. Simpson expressed but suggested the town should have at least one more seat on the council. At this point, he added, he doesn’t really know how budgeting will work, nor how the advisory committees work.

“We should be able to

ask for more because we do more,” MacFarlane said.

Kitchen said he understands that any additional taxes raised in Nackawic under the newly expanded municipality must be spent in Nackawic.

MacFarlane suggested holding off on decisions surrounding the council makeup until they have more details on how the budget will work.

News from in and around Nackawic

Red lights at the Axe, Neighbourhood Watch, and Wheels to Wellness

By Julie Stone Red Lights at the AXE Nackawic will light up the Big Axe in red during March to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Easter Seals in Canada.

Easter Seals is Canada’s largest local provider of programs and services for the disability community.

Neighbourhood Watch Nackawic has formed a new chapter of Neighbourhood Watch within its limits. If you are interested in being an active part of keep-

ing the neighbourhood safe, consider joining this worthwhile cause. It is all about “neighbours helping neighbours” and keeping a careful watch for the safety of all. If interested, please call (506) 471-0822 or (506) 478-0606 or e-mail nackawicneighbourhoodwatch@gmail.com River Valley Food Bank The River Valley Food Bank will be making deliveries to Nackawic on Wednesday, March 23.

Each month these deliveries will be made during the third week of the

month and always on Wednesday. Pick up is at 11 a.m. at the Nackawic Town Office. Connect with River Valley Food Bank or Nancy Coy at (506) 575-9891 for more information.

International Students This year has been the most successful year with the New Brunswick International Student Program. Over the year, seven students from six countries have been hosted by families in the Nackawic area. Nackawic High School is searching for host families for next

year. Hosting is rewarding for both the families and the students as it forms friendships that will last a lifetime and provide mentorship and guidance for the students.

Host families do not have to have children attending school but could be retirees, grandparents or empty-nesters who are willing to share their lives – for a short while-with these students.

There is a financial incentive for host families as well. $750.00 per month is provided to help compensate for the extra

expenses of hosting a student for an extended period. If you are interested in learning more about the program, or if you are interested in hosting a student, contact Sean Newlands at (506) 575-6041 or e-mail at sean.newlands@nnbed.nb.ca.

Free Tax Clinic It is again that time of year. If you need your tax forms filled out or just need some help - call the Nackawic Town Hall at (506) 575-2241 to make an appointment, or you can drop your forms off at

the office. Someone will be there to support you.

Wheels to Wellness A reminder that Wheels to Wellness offers in-town drives for no charge. Just give Linda Brewer a call at (506) 575-1999.

Correction The information provided should have read that the senior lunches are in memory of Tony and Vicki Guerrera and that finances were provided by the Waterfront Pub & Eatery. My sincerest apologies to the family for my mistake.

14

WELLNESS

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

Happy Nutrition Month!

Eating Well

By Karrie Bedford, RD

D

id you know that March 2022 marks the 40th anniversary of Nutrition Month? For 40 years, Dietitians of Canada has promoted Nutrition Month to host conversations about food and nutrition and highlight the skills of Registered Dietitians. With varying themes over the years, the goal of nutrition month has stayed consistent: There is power in food!

This year’s theme is ‘Ingredients for a Healthier Tomorrow .’ This year’s focus is on how our choices help influence our future food systems tomorrow.

How might you ask?

Dietitians and fellow foodies alike are working

to create change for tomorrow. Canadians are creating a healthier future in areas like food security, food literacy, food sovereignty, sustainable food choices, nutrition care and prevention.

Here’s how you can join in! #YourFutureIsHealthy Food security: Learn about your community!

Are you aware of what programs and supports are available? Perhaps you can consider volunteering or helping with these initiatives!

Food Literacy: Keep practicing your food skills!

Try a new recipe experiment with a new type of food. Better yet - share your talents with others, like teaching them how to master your family-favourite recipe.

Food Sovereignty: The right to culturally appropriate food procured through varying food and agricultural methods. Join in by exploring online resources and sharing your

culture and customs with neighbours and friends to help improve your knowledge of food sovereignty.

Sustainable Food Choices: Take the time to learn more about your food choices and how you can take a more sustainable approach. It could be by reflecting on food waste, like food packaging, or testing out new plant-based recipes.

Nutrition Care and Prevention: Find a local Registered Dietitian who can help navigate you through how to find proper nutrition during a diagnosis or help to optimize your health and wellbeing to prevent the onset of disease. You can help by sharing evidence-based information, networking and sharing resources or referring friends and neighbours

to a trusted dietitian in your area!

There are so many ways to work together to build a healthy future for ourselves and our communities!

If you have more questions about Nutrition Month or perhaps have an idea on how we can keep working towards a healthier future for our communities, please reach out! Contact

me (Karrie), your local Food Security Coordinator for the Western Valley Region, at food@cvcin.ca or via phone at (506) 3285314.

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

SUPPORT YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER – Email theresa@rivervalleysun.ca to learn how you can sponsor a page!

SUNNY-SIDE UP

Providing What time is it? Readers with a Challenge, a Chuckle, and a Smile

Did you KNOW?

River Valley Sun Word Search: TIME

I L J H O R O L O G Y R M V O

R P J B B R T F P H E R A O C

C Q E T A N A S G U A C C D G

antemeridian momentarily decennium

AM N B T A E O MA E G R D I T D A I R A D N Y B G C S C L

K D X T V B Y R T N O F H R O

X P G E P I C O S E C O N D C

hourglass horology bedtime

temeridian

momentarily

urglass

horology

ock

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 15

nanosecond

belated

watch

T I MC P K S O T S R F MU L BWE E F E I N S B DD T Y E T E AM L I C RWA M E I A T E N L T E R N Y C D H I F HH L U E H C P MO A V K Z N V B clock

OND B G I N A C DO E OWN P N T H A U ON R UO Y R S B G E G L C K A OW S N A S D R

watch tardy

decennium

picosecond

bedtime

• Benjamin Franklin was half-joking when he suggested Daylight Saving Time (DST). He proposed a similar concept in a satirical essay published in 1784 more than a century before it was adopted.

•The official credit for DST goes to English entomologist George Vernon Hudson. He first presented the idea to the Royal Society in New Zealand in 1895. His idea was adopted by many nations in 1927.

• DST gained new popularity during the energy crisis. In 1973 the American government was looking for ways to reduce public consumption. DST was imposed in the U.S. in 1974.

• The term ‘Daylight Saving Time’ is not plural. There is no s in Daylight, even though many people add the s.

RVS TONGUE TWISTER

Can you can a can as a canner can can a can?

CARLETON COUNTY

Colloquialisms

By John Morris

we’s \’weez\ contraction - “we was”; “Well, we’s gunnoo, but then we decided not to.” As this example illustrates, “we’s gunnoo” translates to “we were going to.” We’s is a fascinating illustration of a culture using the rules of English grammar to satisfy its own ends: a pasttense contraction (though sometimes the term is used in the present century tense) that ignores the implied disagreement in number, while at the eon same time disguising itself as a possessive. To the unfamiliar ear, this extreme level of grammatical ambiguity makes we’s one of the most era frequently misunderstood terms in the Carleton County dialect. nanosecond

(Now find a repeated word!)

tardy

LET’Scentury STAY ACTIVE eon

cosecond

COVID-19 PROTOCOL CHANGES As the Government of New Brunswick removes all remaining COVID-19 mandatory measures, patrons using the AYR Motor Centre facility will not be required to wear masks or required to provide vaccination disclosures. We remind everyone that core protective health measures remain important tools to limit the spread of COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses. This is particularly important for those who are most vulnerable.

belated

Hear this word pronounced at www.dooryard.ca.

tardy

SPRING is around the corner !

era

YOUTH ZONE AFTER SCHOOL DROP-IN

For Grades 6 to 9 Monday to Friday

(closed on holidays) at the AYR Motor Centre Field House

Join us after school for a variety of activities and games!

THIS IS A FREE ACTIVITY thanks to the generous sponsorship of

The Woodstock Rotary Club!

THE TIM HORTONS Build your own custom worksheet at education.com/worksheet-generator JOE MCGUIRE ROAD RACE © 2007 - 2022 Education.com IS BACK!!!

SAVE THE DATE: Saturday, July 30, 2022 AQUATIC FACILITY 10K Super Series, 5K run, 5K walk! ®

Lap and Public Swims

Register today on the RunNB website: www.runnb.ca

Check out our schedule on the Town of Woodstock website!

WOODSTOCK BOXING CLUB

AYR MOTOR FIELD HOUSE

Offering Junior Boxing Program, Boxing Fitness, Boxing Training, Fun Box Program and FREE Intro Classes!

Check out the WBC Facebook page for details!

Join your friends on the indoor walking track!

Don’t forget: Indoor footwear is required!

Check the Town of Woodstock website for Drop-in Schedules!

YOUR COUNTY SALE 17th

on Exit Realty’s North American

TOP 100

for Transactions Closed in 2021

57th

on Exit Realty’s North American

TOP 100

for Gross Commission Income 2021

Jarrett Shaw, Richard always put clients fi

S

Working Together and

easoned EXIT Realty Platinum’s real estate agent Richard Reid knew his sales group did well last year but had no idea just how well until his parent company’s sales rankings were released.

One of the realtor© groups at EXIT Realty Platinum is a threeway partnership between Richard and up-and-coming agents Jarrett Shaw and Eric Arbeau. This sales force placed in all four of EXIT International’s Top 100 rankings for North America in 2021.

The group captured 17th place for Transactions Closed (sales) and were 18th in Listings, 57th in Gross Commissions, and 99th in Sales Volume. The placements are impressive when you consider EXIT has over 20,000 real estate agents

across North America.

“It was a bit of a shock for all of us,” admitted Richard. “And the fact we hit all four lists blew me away!!”

“We’ve worked hard, and it shows,” said Jarrett. “We take our jobs very seriously, and we take a lot of pride in ensuring all sales are smooth and pleasant experiences.”

“The nature of real estate has changed during the pandemic,” added Eric. “With the market so hot, if you don’t return a call to a client within minutes, there’s a good chance they’ll call someone else.”

“Houses are being sold in less than an hour. In this kind of environment, you have to be very clientfocused,” said Richard.

The team has gone above and beyond for many clients over the

Richard Reid (506) 328-4524 richardsells.ca

ONE LISTING last year. From helping clean out a flooded basement to snow clearing, all three believe that quality customer service is key to serving people who have trusted them with their biggest life purchases.

“I’ve always been focused on service. And recruiting Jarrett and Eric was a bonus. They had the same work ethic and approach to the profession as I have. They are both smart, kind, and caring men who believe in what we do,” explained Richard.

Richard mentored both Jarrett and Eric throughout their journeys

to becoming real estate agents.

That experience solidified their team.

“That’s our strength,” said Jarrett. “We work well together. We are there for each other and our clients.

Having all three of us work together with clients ensures everyone gets the highest quality of service.”

Jarrett had a solid background in marketing and business before he found his calling in real estate. His natural ability to communicate and problem solve continues to serve him well. Eric was destined for dentistry school but found what ap-

Jarrett Shaw (506) 425-3214 askjarrett.ca

ES FORCE from REALTY PLATINUM

18th

on Exit Realty’s North American

TOP 100 for Listings in 2021

99th

on Exit Realty’s North American

TOP 100 for Sales Volume in 2021

Reid, and Eric Arbeau first – and it shows!

d Making a Difference

G AT A TIME pealed to his inner personal desires with EXIT Platinum. The company broker, Kerry Culberson, has often remarked that it seemed as if Eric had always been a part of this real estate family from day one.

“This is such a satisfying job.

You get to help people find the right home. It’s a very personalized service that goes beyond just the sales transaction,” Eric said.

The team doesn’t just talk the talk; they walk the walk.

“That motto about going above and beyond is real here,” said Jarrett. “It’s satisfying to provide a ser-

vice that’s so important to individuals and families,” he added.

“Richard offered me a chance to do something I love. It challenges you, but it also gives you a lot of personal satisfaction,” said Eric.

Richard believes their collective success comes from the diversity each brings to the table.

“We all come from different backgrounds, and we’ve had different experiences, and every client is different, so having those varied perspectives is important in this business,” he said.

Richard, Jarrett, and Eric enjoy

Eric Arbeau (506) 323-9413 thinkeric.ca

what they do and compliment each other well.

“It’s a blessing,” explained Richard. “We care about each other and our clients, and we have each other’s back and the support of our broker, Kerry Culberson,” he added.

In a business with a reputation for being cut-throat, working together means everybody wins - the clients, the company, and other brokers, “We have a great relationship with other brokers in the area,” explained Jarrett.

“It’s all about approach,” added Eric.

The respect for clients has allowed the team to grow in sales.

“Word of mouth is powerful,” explained Richard. “If you provide clients with great service, the word

gets out. A trust is created. In this business, trust is everything.”

Richard gained partners with fresh faces and perspectives when Jarrett and Eric joined him.

“More young people are looking to get into the real estate market.

Some are more comfortable with an agent who is closer to their own age,” said Richard. “I’m here for whatever the guys need. Conversely, some of our older clients prefer to deal with someone experienced, so knowing that we operate as a team means they know they can trust us with all their real estate needs.

I love the diverse experience within our group.”

Jarrett, Eric and Richard agree that it’s easy to do your best when you love what you do.

www.exitplatinum.com (506) 324-9004

18

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

Perth-Andover J.P. Cormier Performs Larlee Creek Hullaballoo presents J.P.Cormier on March 27 at the Tobique River Trading Post!

Advance tickets required and available by calling 877-778-7271, emailing larleecreek.hullabaloo@ gmail.com or purchse directly at Tobique River Trading Company.

Women’s Day Event There will be a Women’s Day event on April 23 at the River Valley Civic Centre from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Vendors wanting to take part can call Tasha Woods at (506) 273-4959 ex. 2.

Florenceville-Bristol NCRC sponsorship With COVID restrictions easing and spring on the way, Florenceville-Bristol is set to ramp up it’s fundraising and sponsorship campaign to help finance the new Northern Carleton Recreation Centre. Watch the River Valley Sun Facebook page and future editions for details on the campaign.

Spring Show & Sale The 69th Annual Carleton County Spring Show & Sale will be taking place at the Northern Carleton Civic Centre from April 11 to 13. Several breeds, all competing for the title of Grand Champion 2022.

Follow Carleton County Spring Show & Sale on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for updated schedules.

Easter Events Florenceivlle-Bristol will host an Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt at Riverside Park (Weather Permitting) and Shiktehawk Trail Eggstravaganza. Follow the town’s Facebook page for full details. www.facebook. com/florencevillebristolrecreation Summer Student Jobs The Town of Florenceville-Bristol is now accepting applications for summer student employment. Applications for positions in recreation, administration, ground maintenance, beautification and life guard/pool staff are now being accepted. Visit the town website for more details at www. florencevillebristol.ca/ jobopportunities.

NCCC Ice Schedule Check the calendar at

https://www.florencevillebristol.ca/iceschedule for the most up to date Ice Schedule. Ice will be done April 2 for the season.

Recreation Events Please continue to check our Recreation Facebook Page for the most current Recreation Events. www. facebook.com/florencevillebristolrecreation

Juniper Breakfasts are back Saturday breakfast have returned to the Juniper Community Centre.

Doors open at 8 a.m.,with the centre’s used clothing and knick knack store available to customers until 11 am. Call 425-3085 for more information.

Woodstock Door-to-Door Sales Woodstock council approved Bell Aliant to conduct door to door sales in the Town of Woodstock during the following dates: - March 21 to 25, 2022 - March 28 to April 01 Police Reports Online The Woodstock Police Force 2021 annual report is now available online on the Town of Woodstock

website at https://town. woodstock.nb.ca Quilt Show The Woodstock Quilt Guild will host its annual quilt show at the AYR Motor Centre on Saturday, April 29 and 30.

Breakfast at the Airport The Woodstock Flying Association is hosting a Fly-In Breakfast at the airport on Saturday, April 2 from 8 to 11 a.m. Come for bacon, eggs, hashbrowns, toast and cofffee. Cost is $10.

Nackawic Jamboree Returns The Country Jamboree starts up again on Saturday, March 26, from 7 to 9:30 p.m.. with a break for snack. Entry by donation with all proceeds going to IWK. To book the Lions Hall contact Brian Toole at 575-2885.

Babies at the Library The Babies at the Library social group will resume on March 15. This is a 4 to 6 week program. To register, call (506) 575-2316.

If you want to promote a community event, email theresa@rivervalleysun.ca

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING FOR CARLETON FUNERAL HOME CO-OP MEMBERS WHEN: Saturday, April 9 at 11 a.m.

WHERE: Carleton Funeral Home Chapel 337 Lockhart Mill Road Jacksonville, N.B.

ARE YOU STRUGGLING TO PAY FOR FOOD? The Upper River Valley Food Pantry can help!

Reach out via email: urvfoodhelp@gmail.com or call/text (506) 391-9819 or 356-5999 for support.

You are not alone! We can help!

Share birthday, anniversary, graduation or baby announcements for as low as $20 call or email (506) 325-2552

theresa@rivervalleysun.ca

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.

Ryan’s Pharmacy Friendly Caring Staff Prescriptions and Custom Compounding Travel Clinic - rivervalleytravelhealth.ca Health Care in Your Community Since 1970!

135 Otis Drive Nackawic 575-2075

Newnham & Slipp Pharmacy Free Local Prescription Delivery, Home Health Products, Orthotic Supports & Braces, Mastectomy Products with Certified Fitters and Fitting Rooms, Hallmark Gift Shop, Birkenstocks, Cosmetics & Lotto Tickets!

604 Main Street Woodstock 325-2000

Shoppers Drug Mart

(506) 392-6763

florencevillebristol.ca

(506) 325-4600

www.town.woodstock.nb.ca

Online Prescription Refills, Expanded Health Care Products, Luxury Beauty Products, Wardrobe Accessories, Fragrances, Fresh and Frozen Grocery Items, Household Products, Cleaning Supplies, and PC Optimum Points!

370 Connell Street Woodstock 328-8801

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

(506) 575-2241 www.nackawic.com

Your Health is Our Priority Convenient DRIVE-THRU

Prescriptions and Custom Compounding Vaccinations and Wellness Consults 100 Jones Drive, Woodstock (506) 325-5550

Purvis Culbert Law in Woodstock is a proud supporter community journalism and the River Valley Sun. www.purvisculbertlaw.ca

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 19

Maine border agents arrest 27 people illegally crossing into U.S.

Romanians arrested after attempting to cross border at Union Corners, near Woodstock-Houlton border

By Jim Dumville Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

U

the four vehicles as they attempted to further enter into the U.S. “Agents encountered 27 Romanians present illegally in the United States,” the U.S. border patrol statement explained. “All subjects were transported to the Fort Fairfield Station for further processing, with one subject transported to the Houlton Regional Hospital for evaluation of a medical concern. That subject was later released back into Border Patrol custody.”

The statement added agents seized the four vehicles and a significant amount of U.S. and foreign currency.

The release said Ameri-

.S. Border Patrol agents report arresting 27 Romanian residents after they illegally entered the country across the border between rural New Brunswick and Maine communities.

In a press release issued March 2, the United States Border Patrol said agents intercepted a convoy of four vehicles, carrying the 27 individuals, illegally crossing the border at Union Corners, Maine, on Feb. 25.

The release said Border Patrol Agents from the Houlton Station, Sector Intelligence Unit, and Houlton Sector Headquarters responded and interdicted

can officials expelled all the subjects back to Canada under Title 42 authority.

“This was a coordinated effort by Houlton Sector between the various stations on the eastern border, but also of our international partners in the Canada Border Services Agency to process and return them to Canada,” said Acting Patrol Agent in Charge Jodi Williams.

The Canadian Border Service Agency refused to provide further information, including where the 27 people went or what charges they face.

“The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is bound by the Privacy Act in regards to personal information about a specific per-

son or file and will not comment on specific cases,” said Allan Donovan, CBSA Media Relations He explained CBSA is responsible for enforcing the law at Canada’s designated ports of entry, while the RCMP is responsible between ports of entry.

The RCMP did not return requests for information.

“The CBSA works closely with its national and local law enforcement partners to detect and prevent illegal cross-border activity, such as smuggling and human trafficking,” said Donaval.

U.S. Border Sector Chief William J. Maddocks praised the efforts of border security agents in Maine.

“I could not be prouder

of how effectively this organized criminal event was handled by the Houlton Sector agents and professional staff,” he said. “National Security is vital here in Maine just as it is anywhere else in the country.

When my team protects the border here, we protect our national interests. Violators will be dealt with swiftly, to the fullest extent allowable by law, and will be subject to arrest, removal, prosecution, civil penalties and/or asset forfeiture, where applicable. “ The United Border Patrol release explained that Houlton Station is one of six U.S. Border Patrol stations in Maine, which fall under the Houlton Sector Headquarters.

It noted agents assigned

A road sign near Union Corner points to Fosterville and Woodstock, home of two designated CanadaU.S. ports of entry. (Jim Dumville photo)

to the Houlton Station are responsible for securing 98 miles of border between the United States and Canada, located on Maine’s eastern border with Canada.

The River Valley Sun reached out to the Canada Border Service Agency for comment.

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!

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

Call Carolyn today!

870 Main Street Woodstock, N.B.

- your experienced, award winning team!

WE ARE LOOKING

FOR LISTINGS ’T WON LAST !

LONG 3 Banks St., Florenceville-Bristol Home and space for business

111 Jules Drive, Woodstock Family-oriented subdivision

NEW ON DATI FOUN 181 Main Street, Canterbury

5 bed, 2 bed home

Linda Currie

325-8654

Gary Everett

324-5096

Y MAN S O N RE

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140 Wentworth St., Woodstock

5 bed, 2.5 bath home

ITE E SU M O C L IN NTIA POTE

T FRON

ER WAT

408 Route 540, Maxwell

391 acres with outbuildings

Reg McElroy

325-8631

Dawn Peltola

470-5855

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323-8950

Jordan Currie

323-0430

It’s a sellers market! If you are thinking of selling your home, buyers are waiting! Call today, and make your move while the market is hot!

Ron Jones

440-8312

Walter Warford

238-5065

Dani Kelly

323-0727

Bertha Scribner

THINKING ABOUT SELLING YOUR HOME? WE HAVE BUYERS LOOKING FOR PROPERTIES! CALL US TODAY!

All Seasons Realty 655 Main Street, Woodstock (506) 325-2500 century21allseasonsrealty.ca

476-4281

20

Hartland Town Council briefs

By Sandra Hanson

T

he following items were discussed at the March 3, 2022, Hartland Town Council meeting: Cheque fraud update As a result of fraudulent cheque activity noted in the fall of 2021, the town started the process of setting up a new operating account. While the process of migrating receipts and payments to the new account is taking place, the town has been monitoring all transactions.

Hartland CAO Rob Webber told the mayor and councillors that there had been no further instances of fraud.

New park for town CAO Webber informed the council that the town would be forming a committee to plan, design, and build a new park on Main Street beside the Hartland Baptist Church. While exact details are still to be worked out, tentative plans include a new boat dock.

The new park will coincide with a proposed project shared by Tourism and Economic Develop-

ment Manager Gaby Mann to upgrade the waterfront area with new landscaping, paving, and upgrades to the tourist bureau.

Push-notification system The town continues to implement a push-notification system that will share important notices with residents. Public Works Manager Jed Giberson and Tourism and Economic Development Manager Gaby Mann have recently reviewed push-notification systems.

They have recommended the town move forward with a previously purchased system called Express Messenger by Telematik. More details on the system will be released in future meetings.

Recreation report Recreation Director Tanya Hawkes shared that the town has a lineup of activities planned for March Break, including Monday: Elementary Day Camp from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesday: Middle School Pick-up Hockey from 1 to

2:30 p.m.

Wednesday: Middle School Pick-Up Basketball - 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Thursday: Soccer from 9:30-10:30 for elementary students and 10:30-12:00 for middle school students Adult pickleball will be resuming at the Hartland Community School every Sunday from 6:30-8:300.

Other upcoming activities for spring that are currently under consideration include: elementary volleyball and ball hockey adult Couch to 5K adult ball hockey, starting by the end of April Hawkes said the arena would shut down for the season on March 27, 2022.

In light of the province removing the vaccination mandate on Feb. 28, 2022, the town has eliminated the Vaccination Attendant positions. Hawkes and the town thanked Justin Morgan and Ellie Orser for the great job they did over the winter season.

Damage to town hall Public Works Manager

Jed Giberson informed the council that the town hall building suffered leaks in two rooms after ice buildup in the gutters and on the lower roof.

Public Works removed the ice, which stopped the leaking and will complete the necessary repairs inside within the next 2-3 months.

CCCC construction management RFP to be released Council members approved the motion to release a Request for Proposal or RFP for construction management services for the Central Carleton Community Complex or CCCC. The RFP was released on Friday, March 4, on the Service New Brunswick procurement page, NBON. The RFP will be posted for three weeks. The construction committee aims to score the responses during the week of March 28, 2022.

Town to formalize design contract Hartland CAO Rob

Webber says the town wants to formalize its relationship with Pearson Engineering and prepare a contract to hire Pearson Engineering to provide design services for the Central Carleton Community Complex.

Council members voted to approve a motion to go ahead with the negotiations.

Construction spending approval The town agreed to give some spending authority for the CCCC to the complex’s construction committee. CAO Rob Webber said the decision was made because the town felt if the council had to approve all spending

decisions, it would hinder construction progress.

The CCCC Construction Committee will now have a specific level of signing authority (authority details to be determined) to approve any amounts within an established budget. In turn, the committee will provide regular spending reports to the council.

Councillor joins CCCC Construction Committee CAO Rob Webber recommended that the CCCC Construction Committee include a council member.

After some discussion, Lee Patterson’s name was put forward.

A motion to appoint Patterson to the committee was passed unanimously.

Ontario man arrested, cocaine seized at Woodstock border

Traveller denied entry to U.S. and held by Canadian Border Services Agency RIVER VALLEY SUN

R

CMP seized more than two pounds of cocaine and arrested an Ontario man after responding to the Woodstock-Houlton border on Feb. 18 at the request of the Canada Borders Services Agency.

In a media release issued March 7, RCMP said federal police officers also confiscated a weapon and illegal cannabis.

New Brunswick RCMP

responded to a call for service at the WoodstockHoulton border crossing, where border agents denied a Canadian traveller entry into the United States. The Canada Border Services Agency detained the man until the RCMP arrived.

The RCMP arrested the 47-year-old Toronto man.

A search of his vehicle led to the seizure of more than two pounds of cocaine, a weapon, money and one

pound of illegal cannabis.

Police seized the man’s vehicle before releasing him, pending a future court appearance.

“The Federal Serious and Organized Crime Unit (FSOC) targets criminal activity involving national security, border integrity, serious organized crime and high-level drug enforcement,” explains Cpl. Hans Ouellette with the New Brunswick RCMP. “This arrest and seizure demon-

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strate part of the important work they do for the province, specifically the Border Integrity group. A significant quantity of harmful drugs has been taken out of circulation and prevented from crossing the international border.”

In many of its media releases, the RCMP traditionally reminds the public how it could help police battle illegal drug traffic.

“The public plays an important role in helping to

reduce, prevent and solve crime, including the trafficking of illegal drugs,” the RCMP stated in the release. “Anyone with information about, or who suspects, illegal drug activity in their neighbourhood is asked to contact their local police.”

The RCMP added that the public could also provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222TIPS (8477).

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Village of Perth-Andover Council briefs

By Sandra Hanson

T

he following items of business were discussed at the February 14, 2022, Village Council meeting: New electoral system After reviewing 10 different options for an electoral system for the newly amalgamated municipality, Perth-Andover council decided on a hybrid model using ward and at-large councillors. One ward representative will be elected from both the Andover and Perth ward, and two will be elected from the Village of Perth-Andover. Two more at-large representatives will also be elected.

Public Safety Programs Council members agreed to move ahead with implementing two new Public Safety Actions, in-

cluding a Neighbourhood Watch and a new program called Citizens on Patrol.

The Neighbourhood Watch program will involve online training for participating residents. The Citizens on Patrol program will encourage residents to patrol the community and alert the police if they notice any suspicious activity. Mayor Marianne Bell said both programs would be implemented in conjunction with the RCMP, who are very supportive of the initiative.

Flood insurance and relocation aid Information from Public Safety Canada was shared at the council session. The organization has implemented a task force to look at flood insurance and potential relocation for residential properties located in flood-prone areas.

They will be looking specifically at low-cost insurance options for people in these areas.

Municipal Reform and Fire Services Mayor Bell expressed her concerns about municipal reform, particularly how amalgamation would affect fire department service reimbursement. Based on the new boundaries, the area that the Perth-Andover fire department will be reimbursed for is much smaller than the actual area they service. Mayor Bell said this means the village will have to look at recovering costs. CAO Dan Dionne assured the mayor that the issue had been flagged to discuss with their amalgamation consultant.

Upgrading Wille Machine Council agreed to upgrade their 2016 Wille

machine to a 2021 model.

CAO Dionne noted the newer model offers several improvements, including better controls and fuel savings.

“We find this unit extremely useful,” said Dionne. “We use it for snow removal, banners, and street sweeping.”

He shared that the newer machine will have multiple features, including a boom and blade. The previous model will be traded in for approximately $75,000, leaving the village to pay $70,500, which includes a 3-year warranty.

Trail Head Project CAO Dionne says the village has been approached by the New Brunswick ATV Federation, which is working in partnership with the province to develop 10 trailheads across the province.

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 21

The trail heads will be used as starting points and will include ample parking and easy access to the trails.

The village has been considering possible locations in their community.

“This is great,” said Mayor Bell. “Build[ing] up the infrastructure for recreation that’s already very popular in our town; it will only bring more people.”

The motion to support the development of the project partnership was unanimously passed.

Gas Tax for Trail Development CAO Dionne proposed that the village apply for financial support from the LSD Gas Tax Fund. The money would be used to further develop trails in the community and the Carlingford area. Enhancements would potentially

include opening the trails, adding benches and resting areas, repairing existing pavement where necessary, and completing the paved portion within the municipality. The estimated budget for the project is $107,000. If approved, approximately two-thirds of the cost would be paid through the Gas Tax Fund.

Mayor Bell felt this was an excellent use of the funds.

“The Carlingford Trail is so popular. It might be on Village land, but it feels like it’s in a rural area. It’s a gem,” she said. The council agreed to move forward with the application.

It’s River Watch time in the valley

Experts warn residents not to be fooled by two straight low-event years

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

T

he watch is on along the St. John River as experts combine forces to prepare for this year’s freshet and potential flooding.

The annual River Watch program, which officially started Saturday, March 11, provides New Brunswickers with information on the status of rivers, potential ice jams and other flood issues across the province during the flood season.

The Upper St. John River Valley is coming off two low-event seasons in a row, but all flood experts warn those living in flood-prone regions not to get complacent.

“I’d be pressed to tell you the last time we saw such good fortune along the St. John River and its tributaries,” said Greg MacCallum, director of New Brunswick Emergency Measures Organization.

“But luck doesn’t last forever, and it shouldn’t be part of anyone’s preparedness

strategy.”

Public Safety Minister Bill Hogan offered similar caution.

“After back-to-back years with very little flooding, I hope no one has forgotten the serious impact spring flooding can have,” he said. While people who live in flood-prone areas prepare for this year’s freshet, this is a good reminder for New Brunswickers everywhere to take the time to ensure they know the risks in their area, have a plan and are prepared to deal with unexpected events.”

MacCallum offered advice on what steps valley residents should take over the next few weeks before the freshet begins.

“Check your 72-hour preparedness kit and see if it needs refreshing,” he said. “Check your evacuation plan and make sure it’s up to date, and take stock of items in your home and on your property that should be moved to higher ground

or secured.”

MacCallum also reminded New Brunswickers of the availability of overland flood insurance, suggesting property owners contact their insurance provider.

He noted government disaster financial assistance is only available to help New Brunswickers for losses that they can’t insure.

The Department of Environment and Local Government’s Hydrology Centre is another partner in the River Watch program.

“We provide scientific and engineering support to the program,” said Don Fox, Director of Air and Water Sciences at the Department of Environment and Local Government.

“We are responsible for collecting and compiling data, such as water levels and flows, precipitation, temperature, snow depth, and ice movement.”

He said the centre provides regular flood fore-

casts and expertise.

Starting later in March, it will offer daily five-day forecasts through the balance of the flood season.

Fox reminded the public that flood predictions remain uncertain far in advance, noting weather conditions play a central role in creating flood danger.

“Several factors can influence flooding during the spring season,” he said.

“Rapid increases in temperature, combined with heavy rain events, can cause increased water levels and significant flooding. As ice begins to break up, ice jams can also occur, causing rapid rise in water levels and flooding.”

Fox said warm days and cool nights provide the ideal weather pattern for the slow melt to ease the flood danger.

Fox said a snow survey for the end of February shows the snowpack in the Upper Saint John River Valley above the Mactaquac

Dam is comparable to last year.

He said snow levels below the dam are slightly less than last year.

Meteorologist Jill Maepea, from Environment Canada, joined MacCallum and Fox Friday, March 11, to launch the 2022 River Watch program. She offered some graphs showing winter weather patterns, including winter precipitation levels, which proved to be above or near normal.

Temperature levels were above average, except in the northwest.

Maepea’s graphs predict temperatures above normal until March 24 but below normal through April and May, with precipitation levels near normal through March, April and May. EMO advises New Brunswickers to take some of the following steps during the River Watch season: Be prepared for possible flooding and have a plan to evacuate and be self-suffi-

cient for at least 72 hours; Move belongings to higher ground if their property is near a waterway or is in an area that is prone to flooding; Avoid the banks of waterways, as they become dangerous this time of year.

The water is cold, and currents are swift and could carry debris; Be aware that, as ice continues to deteriorate, it will become unsafe to cross waterways on foot, in cars, or on snowmobiles or ATVs; Call the River Watch tollfree number, 1-888-5614048, to receive the latest recorded water levels, forecasts and public advisories; Call 511 for road closures and conditions or check online at 511 – New Brunswick Road Conditions (gnb.ca) Report significant ice jams or rising water. If you need advice, contact the Emergency Measures Organization at 1-800-5614034.

22

Preparing for the 69th Annual Carleton Show and Sale

Local 4-H clubs again play prominant role in popular event

By Sandra Hanson

T

he 69th annual Carleton County Spring Show & Sale will be held April 11 to 13 at the Carleton County Civic Centre in Florenceville-Bristol.

The event, which is open to the public, will kick off on Monday, April 11, with a weigh-in at 5 p.m., followed by the 4-H judging. On Tuesday, the day will start with the 4-H Show at 10 a.m., followed by the Open Show at 1 p.m.

The Awards Presentation will take place on Wednesday at 11 a.m., and the event will wrap up at 1 p.m., with the sale oversaw by auctioneers Dave and Sam Crouse.

This year, Western District 4-H members raised 11 of the 30 animals.

The 4-H participants include Curtis and Claire Anderson, Lane Findlater, Ethan and Alex Durling, Hunter McLean, Julia Valji, Ella Flewelling, Jack

McAcffee and Walker Brake from River Valley 4-H and Samantha Montgomery from Countryside 4-H. Completing the Beef Project for 4-H is no simple undertaking — participants must complete a record book to document the costs associated with caring for their animal. They must, of course, care for their project animals and get them ready for showing.

Ella Flewelling, who has been showing beef for nine years now with 4-H, said getting a steer ready for a show is a time-consuming effort.

Besides the day-to-day tasks of feeding and regular care, the handlers must train the animals to be quiet around humans and not startle at loud noises.

The training reduces the animals’ stress levels when taken to a show.

“It is also very important to put a lot of work into your steer’s appearance, especially their hair,” Flewelling

said. “We put a lot of hours into rinsing, cleaning, and training the hair to lay in one direction to make sure our steers look the best they can.”

Theresa Hunter, who runs the Beef Program, explained that the youth involved are typically very interested in and dedicated to the beef industry. They are often likely to consider a career in farming or a related agricultural field.

Flewelling is one of these keen youth interested in pursuing a career in agriculture.

“Through [raising] cattle, I have been able to learn first hand the importance of nutrition and properly balanced diets for cows,” she said. “This has led to completing a degree in Animal Science at Dalhousie University, where I am focusing on ruminant production and how [cow] bodies work,” Ella explained.

Even for those not interested in pursuing a career in

Ella Flewelling showing her steer at the Carleton County Show and Sale. (Leigha Jane Photography photo)

agriculture, 4-H helps youth develop a wide variety of skills such as citizenship, cooperation, responsibility, independence, entrepreneurship, leadership, financial management, environmental responsibility, and more.

Flewelling said 4-H al-

lowed her to compete at the prestigious Royal Winter Fair in Toronto when she was only 14 years old.

Flewelling loves handling the animals but says the people in 4-H mean a lot to her.

“My favourite part of 4-H is most certainly the people

that I have met over the years, that have become close friends, and even some that are just part of the family now.”

For more information on the 4-H program in New Brunswick, please contact Ally McConchie at director@nb4h.com.

RCMP investigate shooting incident in Debec

House hit and female ‘possibly’ grazed by bullets

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

W

est District RCMP confirmed police are investigating a report of shots fired at a house in Debec, near Woodstock.

RCMP Cpl. Andrew Whiteway said officers responded to a report at 4 a.m. on Feb. 22 that someone fired shots at a house on Debec Road.

He said early reports indicate shots hit the house and one female

was “possibly grazed” by a bullet, although there’s no report of serious injury.

In a media release on March 9, the RCMP said police believe someone discharged a firearm several times towards the residence and fled the scene before police arrived. Four people were inside the home, one of which required medical attention for apparent minor

injuries.

RCMP Sgt Brendan Flewelling of the Western Valley Region RCMP said investigators are asking the public for help.

“We are looking to speak to any witnesses to the incident, as well as anyone who was on Debec Road between 3:00 and 4:30 a.m., on Feb. 22,” he said.

“If you have dash-cam

or other video footage from the area at the time of the shooting, please call police.”

Whiteway said the careless use of a firearm always includes a risk of severe injury or worse.

He said gun crimes are more prominent in the small rural community than many think. Noting he spent six years in the lower mainland of British

Columbia, people believe the force faced more firearm incidents than it would in rural New Brunswick.

Whiteway explained that’s not necessarily true, noting that part of B.C. primarily sees the criminal element with guns. In New Brunswick, he said, almost everyone has a gun in their house for one reason or another.

“I think the perception

out here is that out there is like the wild, wild west, but you come to New Brunswick where everyone’s a hunter or recreational shooter,” he said.

Whiteway said officers believe the Debec shooting incident is a “one-off” situation, and area residents should not be concerned.

He said the incident remains under investigation.

Tobique-Mactaquac MP/ Député

Richard Bragdon 1-800 -671-6160 richard.bragdon@parl.gc.ca

Thank you for the support and the opportunity to continue to serve. As always, my office is here to help with:

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Florenceville-Bristol Town Council briefs

By Sandra Hanson

T

he following items were discussed at the March 8, 2022, Florenceville-Bristol Town Council meeting: FBFD responds to tractor-trailer rollover In his monthly report, Fire Chief Andrew Cougle informed Council members that the Florenceville-Bristol Fire Department responded to a tractor-trailer rollover on March 6, 2022.

The driver was trapped, which required the use of Halligan tools to release him. Cougle shared that this is a manoeuvre the team has previously practiced in junk yards, and he was impressed with his team’s efforts. “I am very proud of them,” said Cougle. “It was a great team effort.”

FD Training Centre Chief Cougle told council that the construction of the fire department training centre is now complete. Training using the mock-ups will be starting immediately.

Ingenuity saves fire department money Chief Cougle credited the ingenuity of fire department member Laurel Bradstreet with saving the department a notable amount of money. The department needed a new PPE dryer which typically cost $5,000 to 10,000.

Bradstreet built a model for the department capable of drying four complete sets of gear at once for approximately $1,100.

“It was a significant saving for our department,” Cougle said.

Illegal use of N.B. trails brings questions Concerned citizen David Hunter informed Council members that he and other residents of Florenceville-Bristol are hoping for a “quiet and dust-free summer.”

Hunter said many residents are concerned by motorized vehicles (specifically ATVs and dirt bikes) using the N.B. trail system. The stretch of trail between Grafton and Perth-Andover is one of the only sections in the

entire province that does not allow motorized vehicles, and it is proving a challenge to police effectively.

Hunter would like to see concrete barriers placed on the trail at McCain Foods and Maple Street to deter people from using the trail illegally.

Mayor Karl Curtis noted the liability concerns involved with placing barriers.

“We were informed

by Crown Lands that we would need a license of occupation to be able to do this,” he said. “When checking with our insurance, they felt the province should take responsibility for this issue, not the town.”

Hunter urged the council to review Woodstock’s recent study on ATV use and their upcoming pilot project that will allow ATVs to use certain streets to access fuel or other trails.

Mayor Curtis pointed out that “there are no other trails for them to ac-

cess [in Florenceville], so no point in allowing them on the street.”

Coun. Daniel Guest said one of the most significant issues involves effectively policing the trail system.

“We should be able to enforce it, or else it’s a waste of time,” he said.

Council members agreed that policing has been inadequate, nor are local clubs willing to take on the responsibility (maintaining the trails, policing the trails, etc.) necessary for motorizing the section of trail that runs through town.

At Hunter’s urging, Council members agreed to read the Woodstock study and discuss the matter with Woodstock RCMP. A follow-up discussion is expected at the next council meeting.

Carleton County Spring Show and Sale request Mayor Curtis shared a letter the town received from the Carleton County Spring Show and Sale Board of Directors seeking support for its upcom-

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 23

ing show and sale in April by waiving the rental fee for two days of the event.

The board stated it would pay for one day’s rental fee and professional cleaning after the event. Council unanimously approved the request.

Federal Electoral Districts Mayor Curtis shared that following the Census of 2021, the federal government is looking to readjust the current electoral districts. The Federal Electoral Boundaries Commission of New Brunswick invites the public to participate in readjusting the province’s federal electoral districts by submitting their comments and suggestions on the matter.

More information is available at www. redecoupage-redistribution-2022.ca. Submission of comments will be open through March 31, 2022.

Carleton Victoria Arts Council shows resume Deputy Mayor Nancy Whyte-McCauley in-

formed council members she attended a Carleton Victoria Arts Council (CVArts) meeting. Shows will be resuming at the Weldon Mathews Theatre at the Carleton North High School. Upcoming events include Pretty Archie performing on April 10 and Laila Biali on May 14.

Shamrock Train Inn & Suites Pam Brennan of Shamrock Inn & Suites asked council to grant her free use of the restaurant at the Train Car for three months. She aims to use the space to prepare food for her overnight guests.

Council members agreed to her request.

Canteen rent relief Council members discussed waiving rent for The Bread Rack at the Northern Carleton Civic Centre for April and May. While COVID restrictions may be lifting, the canteen is just starting to recover and has been struggling with attendee consistency. In light of this, Council agreed to waive rent for the requested months.

Western Valley RCMP Sgt. Brendan Flewelling said gas theft in the valley is not new; however, the recent frequency seems to be linked to the rise in gas prices.

“While we have not seen a significant increase [yet], there have been some recent thefts.

With the price of fuel skyrocketing, it is important

for people to start taking extra security measures,” said Sgt. Flewelling.

He said people could be proactive, install cameras, security systems, or extra lighting in their yards, and add patrols at night.

“I really want to stress that people need to be taking extra precautions now,” added Flewelling.

Gas thefts on the rise across the valley

RCMP blame frequency on skyrocketing gas prices

By Sandra Hanson

R

ising gas costs are contributing to recent gas thefts in the Upper River Valley. On February 9, 2022, thieves broke into the Florenceville-Bristol Department of Transportation and Infrastructure (DTI) and drilled into the on-site gasoline storage tank. The

Florenceville-Bristol Fire Department initially responded to the call. Fire Chief Andrew Cougle said between 3,000 and 4,000 litres of gasoline spilled onto the ground.

While the snowpack was able to help absorb much of the fuel and prevent excessive ground contamination, the cleanup still required services

from the Department of Environment.

Cougle noted that multiple trips were made with two vacuum trucks to clean up the contaminated snow, which was taken to Frederiction for disposal. The incident prevented three school buses from completing their runs the following day.

“With the rising cost

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of gas, this sort of activity is expected to increase,” said Cougle. He noted that he had heard of two other incidents in Centreville the week prior.

The River Valley Sun reached out to the Centreville DTI for information on the alleged incidents but had not yet received a response.

24

RURAL ROOTS

Stories About Country Life in Western New Brunswick

Everybody’s Irish for a day

ADVENTURES OF AN ACCIDENTAL FARMER

By Ellen Culbert-Johnston

T

op of the mornin’ to ya!

During the month of March, I feel the need to kick up my heels and do a little Irish jig, like they do at the Irish festival that I used to attend in Worcester, Massachusetts.

Watching the Irish step dancers perform Irish reels and jigs made me wish I had learned how to be an Irish step dancer when I was a little girl.

The Irish festival would

include hours of live music throughout the day, performed by many local Irish bands. There were always 50/50 draws and other types of raffles which I threw my two bits in with hopes that the Luck of the Irish would be on my side.

After listening to Irish music, my stomach would grumble for delicious corned beef and cabbage, with a pint of green beer for good measure.

Irish celebrations take place throughout March in Massachusetts. No matter the weather, one could attend a St. Patrick’s Day parade, complete with marching bands, schooldecorated floats and, of course, a few politicians — many of them fashioning their Irish knit sweaters and a paddy cap — shaking hands along the route.

All these thoughts of Ireland made me think of grandmother Alice (McCarron) Culbert and how she wrote about St. Patrick’s day celebrations in her book Memories of a Century, which centers around the history of St. Joseph’s Church in Newburg.

She wrote about how Lent was observed during the time, saying, “St. Patrick’s Day was the only day they could go to a dance, a movie, or any entertainment, so you can imagine how we welcomed this day and made the most of it.”

She shared how Newburg held a Basket Social and dance or at least a dance with lots of Irish music and songs. She wrote how many of the men practiced acts of selfdenial during Lent, such as giving up candy, tobacco

or spirits. But St. Patrick’s Day did not count, so you may be sure there were some treats around.

All of these things added to the joy of the day.

She further shared that occasionally there was a bit of overindulgence. If anyone was upset by it, it was soon forgotten in the final preparations for Easter.

I honour my Irish descendants who came to settle in Newburg from Ireland. To the Culbert’s, McCarron’s, Cunningham’s, Gallagher’s, Hourihan’s, just to name a few, I salute you for your courage and faith to sail across the ocean in hopes to provide more opportunities for your families.

Happy St. Patrick’s Day! I believe there still are a few Leprechauns in Newburg hiding or search-

As St. Patrick’s Day arrives, Ellen is keeping an eye out for that Pot of Gold. (Ellen Culbert-Johnston photo)

ing for that Pot of Gold.

May the road rise up to meet you.

May the wind be always at your back.

May the sun shine warm upon your face.

The rains fall soft upon your fields, And, until we meet again.

May God hold you in the palm of His hand.

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

Arsonist at large: The Hartland Fire of 1907, part two

LIVING HISTORY

By Doris Kennedy The following is historical fiction.

J

ust after midnight on July 15, 1907, people living in the village of Hartland were jolted away by the biggest tragedy in its young history. A raging fireravaged fourteen residences, thirty-one businesses, several storage sheds, one bridge tollbooth and a partially burned cupola that topped the C Humphrey Taylor block.

“It was pitiful. Not just the site of the fire but the outcome,” Elsa recalled days after the devastating 1907 fire. “Newspapers added to the drama. One headline read The fire in Hartland may result in one of the most sensational criminal cases the province has known for years.”

“I watched my parents try to disguise their fear, their loss, and their helplessness. My father, Scott, attended meetings to engage in plans for space to set up his business and other burned-out victims. The meetings broke down with heated debates between

angry citizens demanding answers - a few delivered serious accusations. Some were convinced they knew the arsonist. The homeless cried in desperation.”

In an interview in Elsa’s during her twilight years, raw emotions surfaced as she recalled the events.

She ran her long fingers across the yellowed picture – a coveted photo of the destruction. Her eyes were glassy, her jaw quivered, and her voice cracked.

“I remember the first time we were allowed to see the fire site. It was a large black pit. Burnt timbers, corroded metal and seared stones lay in chaos at the bottom of the vast crevice,” recalled Elsa.

“A tall chimney stood above a charred open roof of the windowless scorched three-story Watson building. This building was the north boundary of the fire ditch. Once an abandoned tool booth, the blackened wood bridge ramp still held a limp assortment of its burned boards. The ramp bordered the pit at the south end. The destroyed area once had familiar places I was accustomed to visiting. Then the single solo sign spoke louder than the hand-printed words.”

In the ashes of the Thornton Drug Store, a large wooden board was errected. It said, “Sacred to the Memory of U Frank Thornton who kindled the

fire here that laid bare these lots and rendered homeless scores of people, including widows and poor orphaned children.”

As a child of nine, Elsa realized the loss to the community wasn’t just buildings.

Her parents lingered at the dinner table for several evenings after the fire. Elsa would pretend to be reading in the room adjacent to the kitchen. Their conversations were always about town meetings or the fire’s aftermath.

“Things are escalating in the village,” Scott whispered as he moved the kitchen chair closer to the table opposite his wife. He sipped on his tea as his eyes questioned his wife’s receptiveness on the tiring subject, but in that instance, she looked up.

“The merchants and others are disputing who started the fire rather than focusing on rebuilding. I don’t know if we can move on until this is resolved.”

“How can they solve this with so many malicious theories,” his wife asked.

“A self-appointed spokesperson contacted the Canadian Detective Bureau of the Eastern Division to ask for help and assign an inspector to investigate the cause. Marshall Murdock received a telegram today to say, an Inspector Ritchie will be arriving by train the first of the week,”

Haunting image: A sign erected in the ruins of the Thornton Drug Store reminded Hartland residents that more than just buildings were lost in the fire. (Submitted photo)

Scott spoke in a soft voice while he scanned to see if any of the children were listening.

The following Monday, as expected, a short darksuited man with a dusty bowler hat stepped confidently down to the wood train station platform. Marshall Murdock greeted him in his double-breasted knee-length topcoat despite the warmth of the day.

Inspector Ritchie lifted his sharp chin, tilting his head back to get a clear view of the Marshall through his round wire-rimmed bulbous glasses.

“You must be the village Marshall,” Ritchie spewed, not volunteering to take the Marshall’s stretched arm for a handshake.

“Let’s go; I need to get started.”

“The sooner I can get at this, the quicker I can

leave,” Ritchie thought to himself.

That was the beginning of two months of chaos.

The inspector trolled the streets. With a sharppointed stick, a magnifying glass and gloves, he examined the ashes poking, squatting and examining charred objects. His appearance stood out among the plain-clothed citizens.

He planned to make himself approachable and approach they did.

It seemed many had a hypothesis as to who started the fire. People answered questions, sometimes unknowingly incriminating their neighbours.

“Thornton was ousted out of the Tracey building before the fire. Some saw him take out his three glass showcases. You should check into his fire insurance he will try to collect

on,” said Mr. Green, nearly breathless as he got his accusations in order.

“I know it was McNally.

He knows the right solvents used on the rags and rubbish that ignited the fire,” prattled a watchman from the J. K. Flemming Mill on lower Main Street. “I know for a fact because he told me in conversation.” McNally was a former employee of the mill.

This case was bigger than Ritchie expected. Two months after his arrival, Inspector Ritchie would call upon Marshall Murdock to act as an escort while he apprehended the suspected arsonist.

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

Married with four children and 11 grandchildren, she is the author of five books.

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 25

RVS SUNSHINE KIDS

SUNSHINE SMILES: (LEFT) Meet six-year-old Sophia Hayes.

Sophia is the daughter of Jessica Chapman and likes to take pictures with her mom’s phone. A student at Centreville Community School, Sophia wants to be a veterinarian when she grows up.

(RIGHT) Meet Sophia’s three-year-old sister Lyla Clark. Lyla is the daughter of Jessica Chapman and Timothy Clark. She wants to be a firefighter when she grows up. (Submitted photos) 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.

ageless

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Order online at agelessnb.ca, mail a cheque, or phone (506) 324-5700 or (506) 324-5711

26

BEAUTIFUL BUMBLES

By Linda McHatten

W

ell folks, as I sit having my hot chocolate and watching the birds at our feeders while the snow falls and then turns to rain, I realize that it’s just a little over a month before the ATV trails open. We usually cannot get out until the end of April because of snow and ice buildup.

The River Valley ATV Club, along with other clubs, will be out checking the trails

WEEDS, SEEDS & GARDEN DEEDS

By Michelle Corcoran

I

’m sure there are many of you out there that may have “stolen” a slip off a friend or relative’s plant or made slips of your own plants for someone else. I have done it lots of times.

Not because I want to take business from local plant shops, but because it’s like giving your friends or family a little reminder of yourself. March brings us

ATVers can’t wait for bumble season to begin for washouts and downed trees once we can get out.

A smile comes over my face when I look over pictures of past bumbles. We have met many people who are now part of our bumble group. I know the friendships we have made will last forever.

We always try to bumble to Zealand a couple of times during the season.

They have the best pizza. It was a rainy day in October when we set out towards Millville and down along the Keswick River. There are no words that can describe the beauty surrounding us at that time of year. The leaves were vibrant, and the water flowed over the rocks. Even the rain could not keep us home. After all, we love our bumbles. Many wildflowers were gone,

and the osprey nest on the power line near Zealand was empty. I remember thinking it wouldn’t be long before winter weather was upon us.

We were fortunate that all we got was some drizzle when we arrived at the Pizza Hut that day.

We dined outside as there was no inside dining due to COVID-19. We are used to eating along the trails in the woods, so that did not bother us. We always try to take a different route home.

The ride was beautiful, with all the colours and trails carpeted with leaves. I never get tired of the bumbles along the Keswick River.

We did not see any wildlife except for some partridge that particular day. We often stop along the trail to have a treat or two. It was

close to Halloween, so there were lots of chocolate, and of course, someone always brings cookies and chips.

We will head to Zealand again in the spring, but it will look different with ice moving out of the river, trees budding, and the wildflowers pushing up through the dead leaves. I still love bumbling along the river regardless of the season.

Before I go, I want to remind folks to stay safe on the trails. Be respectful to other ATVers, and please don’t litter. I am looking forward to seeing everyone on the trails again this spring.

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

Members of the River Valley ATV Club take a snack and sightseeing break along the trail to Zealand last October.

(Linda McHatten photo)

Tips on how to make ‘plant babies’ at home one step to getting back in our gardens, even though all we seem to see is that white covering out there.

Successful cuttings tips: 1) Use a sharp, sterilized knife or plant cutters.

Don’t use your fingernails to clip the plant as lots of diseases or pathogens can be transmitted to the freshly cut stems at this stage.

2) When choosing “where to cut” to make a slip, choose a strong, healthy stem without flowers on it, about 4-5 inches long. If the cutting is too long or has too many leaves, it will drink more water rather than concentrate on making roots. Cut right below the leaf joint. Remove the bottom leaves from the stem.

3) Once you have your

slip, you can dip it in rooting hormone (see picture) then put it directly into a well dampened potting mix. This is not necessary, but it does help reduce plant shock and increase the number and quality of roots.

4) You can also put your slip directly into water to start roots. If you use this method, change the water in the glass once per week to reduce the build-up of algae. Once you see several inches and branches of root growth on the stem (not just one little root), you can carefully put your slip directly into a dampened potting mix.

5) A heat mat (not a hot water bottle!) can help to keep soil or water consistently warmer, increasing

chances of success.

6) Once potted, don’t let the mix dry out until the plant is well established.

7) Grow lights also can help with healthy new growth once in a potting mix.

Easy to propagate plants: · African Violet · Spider plants · Christmas Cactus · String of Pearls · Philodendron · Porthos · Strawberry Begonias Check for pesky “critters” that get into your houseplants It can be maddening when you discover you have provided rental space in your plants to uninvited guests. Don’t let them develop into a full invasion.

Pests like aphids, spider mites and whitefly are a nuisance, to say the least.

Some helpful tips: Stick to a healthy watering schedule (don’t overwater), repot new plants when you bring them home and keep them isolated for a few weeks just in case larvae hatch. Gently clean your plants with a damp cloth regularly to remove dust, eggs and help plants breathe. You can also treat your plants with products like Safer’s Soap (natural product) to help get rid of pests. Take time to plan (and dream) of your spring garden Plan your outside garden now (where and what you will plant (annuals and perennials) so there will

(Submitted photo)

be less work figuring it out come spring.

It won’t be long now before our hands are back in the soil outdoors!

Michelle Corcoran is a home gardener and an active member of the Florenceville-Bristol Garden Club.

Why are the Bay of Fundy tides the world’s highest?

NIGHT SKY

I

By David Hunter

n my last article, I explained the physics of how the moon creates two bulges of water on earth, one facing the moon and the other on the opposite side of the earth facing away from the moon. The two bulges are quite counter-intuitive.

But why does the Bay of Fundy have the world’s highest tides? It has to do with the concept of resonances and sloshing. Most people have pushed some-

body, usually a child, on a swing. Refer to the diagram at the top of the figure (a).

A swing is a pendulum (oscillator) that has a natural frequency or period (T) of “swinging.” The parent pushing the child on the swing must push when the child has just returned and is about to go forward again.

That is the key idea of resonance: if a force pushes at the same frequency as the natural frequency of the oscillator, the oscillation or amplitude of the swinging will get bigger and bigger.

Now probably most people have also got into a bathtub. You may have experimented as a child (or adult) at sloshing around in the tub. If you bob or push at the correct rate, you can get the bathtub water to slosh back and forth in the tub, creating a mini tsunami.

Now I have never had

the luxury to go on a cruise ship but shown in the picture (b) at the bottom of the figure is a swimming pool on a cruise ship. It has a giant slosh wave in it caused by the rocking of the boat, which just happened to be at the same resonant (sloshing) frequency as the swimming pool.

It turns out that there is a natural slosh frequency of the Bay of Fundy, which is about 12 hours. The slosh period (T) is dependent upon the length of the bay (L), its average depth (D), and the strength of gravity(g). The equation in the bottom picture shows the slosh formula. This is only an approximate formula.

Therefore, just as in the sloshing of a bathtub or the swimming pool, the Bay of Fundy sloshes to create high tides. Another factor that makes the Fundy tides

Ticket to ride

Woodstock woman wins car in hockey draw RIVER VALLEY SUN

Leah McCurdy was the lucky winner of Hockey New Brunswick’s annual minor hockey fundraising draw. The Woodstock resident took home a 2021 Nissan Sentra S. McCurdy and her family drove to Fredericton for the pickup earlier this month. Pictured from left, are Finn Sercerchi, Fredericton Nissan General Manager Geoff Daugharty, Ava Sercerchi, Evan Sercerchi, Leah McCurdy, and Ava Sercerchi, carrying their newest family member, Clara Sercerchi. (Submitted photo)

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 27 higher is that the water gets forced into shallow channels, causing the water to pile up.

With the imminent arrival of spring, warmer weather will be here, and upcoming Night Sky articles will focus again on the night sky phenomena.

You may send me questions or article requests 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 in Florenceville-Bristol. He just completed building a 12.5 inch reflecting telescope.

Visit Fashion Today for contest details!

119 King Street, Suite 1, Woodstock

(506) 328-9123

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28

CONNECTION

Sharing Stories of Inclusion, Diversity, and Community

And yet, it is spring...

RIVERSIDE RAMBLINGS

By Carolyn Brown

H

ere we are.

The excitement of a new season spells many things but especially this year when we have been so burdened in so many ways over the last two years.

And yet, all those times when we tripped up gave us an opportunity to make that step part of a new dance.

We have had to cash in on different ways to

feed our spirits and acknowledge that there was often no one stopping us from doing something new or different than ourselves.

Has it been hard some days to even believe in yourself? Have you found yourself thinking you just can’t dig that deep today?

Well, a leap of faith might allow you to fly.

Recognizing you are the only one stopping you might show you there is no one stopping you.

Here at MacLeod Riverside Court, we refused to stop. We have gardened, we have sung, we have quilted, played Bingo, walked the hallways and outdoors, enjoyed games, crafted, celebrated birthdays, had tea and conversation times.

We’ve exercised

and had devotions and church, recycled and gone shopping with the van.

We have visited each other, laughed and shared. We have chosen to decide that life is going to be what we choose to make it, and these residents, I am here to tell you, make it all that it can be. They are an inspiration to me.

We are excited to be speaking about some spring projects to draw in our wider community, so I advise you to be on the lookout for what we may bring your way.

We are eager to support the community and local area as a way of saying thank you for supporting our seniors and us and look forward to the day when we say

“welcome home” to everyone.

We are always open to new and fresh ideas and look forward to when the community can use our home for various things, so reach out to us if you have an idea to discuss.

Let’s look at how far we have come and focus on the strengths we’ve gained versus the losses, let the winter’s snow make us appreciate the spring rains and know that a silver lining and happiness can be found in the littlest things.

We can only see the rainbows when we look up.

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

Residents make spring table centerpieces under the guidance of Dietary Manager Jenn Kants. (Carolyn Brown photo)

Bright moments in dark times IN A ‘MANOR’ OF SPEAKING

By Jane Jones

W

hat a wonderful world. Yes, truly it is. Despite the winter blahs, negative world news, arctic cold temperatures, and another month of pandemic shut downs, humankind showed us how wonderful life is.

On Feb. 1, Be More Like Evan Day, anonymous Angels were the first on the scene to cheer us up.

Neighbours were treated to big kisses (the chocolate variety), Timbits, board games and puzzles.

For Valentine’s Day, Cupids from the Carleton Manor Foundation lifted the spirits of each and every Neighbour with gifts of

roses and chocolates.

Accompanying each gift was a heartfelt Valentine from the Rotoract Club of Woodstock.

Rachelle Smith of the Rotoract Club explained the members’ kindness.

“We wanted to do something nice for the Neighbours,” she said.

“We used to play bingo with them in the Com-

munity Room, but since COVID-19 we haven’t been able to do that.

Instead, we decided to make homemade Valentine’s day cards and deliver them to brighten their day.”

Finally, to top everything off, Neighbours enjoyed a longstanding tradition that we so look forward to — hav-

ing a mid-month, chaseaway-the-winter-blues, KFC picnic dinner with all the fixings and ice cream.

Winter isn’t so bad after all.

Jane Jones is a wife and mother who volunteers at Carleton Manor.

Staff Leah A. and Owen L. are ready to go for the KFC midwinter picnic. (Michelle Vail photo)

From left: 1) These kisses were given by a granddaughter of a past Neighbour for Be More Like Evan day. (Michelle Vail photo) 2) Neighbour Lewis D is all set to dig into his KFC picnic dinner (Mirna Rodriguez photo) 3) Neighbour M. McLellan with some Valentine’s treats. (Michelle Vail photo)

Did you know that in the Pilates world, March is kind of a big deal?

It’s March MATness - get it?!

Now you’re in the know!

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

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 29

HCS students’ Legion contest submissions earn N.B. honours

Two Hartland entries for Royal Canadian Legion Remembrance Day Poster and Literary Contest up for national recognition

By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

T

wo Hartland Community School students’ Remembrance Day tributes earned provincial honours and a chance at national awards.

On Friday, March 4, Hartland Royal Canadian Legion Branch 24 secretary Gloria Foster and Upper Valley District Commander Lena Levesque of Grand Falls visited the Hartland school to present certificates and cheques to the students on behalf of New Brunswick Command.

Anaya Gattani earned provincial first place honours in the Poster Contest, Primary Colour Category.

Lauren Beers took second place provincially in the Literary Contest, Intermediate Poem Category.

Foster explained each September and October, several Hartland Community School students participate in the annual Royal Canadian Legion Remembrance Day Poster and Literary Contest.

She explained the

Left: Hartland Community School student Anaya Gattani, centre accepts provincial first-place certificate and prize for her entry in the Royal Canadian Legion Remembrance Day Poster and Literary Contest in the Primary Colour Category. Making the presentation are Hartland Branch 24 secretary Gloria Foster, right, and Upper District Commander Lena Levesque of Grand Falls. Right: HCS student Lauren Beers accepts the certificate and prize from Upper Valley District Commander Lena Levesque for her poem in the Royal Canadian Legion Remembrance Day Poster and Literary Contest (Submitted photo)

contest has four categories by grade. The poster contests offer colour and black and white categories, while the literary contest is divided into essay and poetry categories.

Foster said Branch 24 awarded top-three prizes in each category last fall to Hartland students.

Because of COVID-19 restrictions at the time,

she explained, Hartland Legion members could not make in-person presentations to the winning students.

The Hartland Legion forwarded all the local prize winners’ submissions to the Provincial Command in Saint John, where Gattani’s and Beers’ works earned provincial honours.

“Anaya and Lauren’s

winning entries have now proceeded to the Dominion Command level for the National portion of the competition,” said Foster.

She said the contest gets strong support from Hartland teachers and students.

“Hartland Legion is always pleased with the number of entries we receive each year with this

contest,” said Foster.

“HCS students, staff and student families are such a big support in our community’s remembrance of Veterans.”

Foster said she and Levesque were honoured to make the Hartland presentations in person.

As COVID-19 restrictions ease as planned on March 15, Foster

said the Hartland Legion hopes to return to a regular schedule gradually.

She said the facility will host a dance with a live band on Saturday, March 19, and already have private bookings for the legion hall in early May and this summer.

“We’re open for business dependent upon any future government changes,” Foster said.

30

SPORTS

Highlights and Features of Local Sports and Sporting Events

EDSA Reds capture provincial crown in Woodstock

Richmond Corner’s Katelynn Bird and Carlisle’s Hilary Stairs travelled many miles to win at home

By Devon Judge

A

fter hundreds of hours of travel for both practices and games, two local hockey players lifted a provincial banner in front of their friends and family.

Richmond Corner’s Katelynn Bird and Carlisle’s Hilary Stiles clinched the 2022 New Brunswick U18 Female AAA championship alongside their fellow EDZA West U18 AAA Reds. The final victory came at the AYR Motor Centre in Woodstock on Sunday afternoon, March 13.

“It’s been five years in the making and it’s great to celebrate on home soil where I started playing hockey,” said Bird, a 17-year-old five-year veteran forward of the league. “It’s great having all my family here to watch this.”

In her final game in New Brunswick as a Red, Bird assisted on the tying goal scored by Coldstream’s Maddy Budrow.

After splitting the first two games of the bestof-five provincial final in Moncton, the Reds defeated the EDZA East Suburu Rockets 2-1 in game three Saturday in Fredericton and secured the title with the same 2-1 score the following day.

“I’m still speechless, the adrenaline rush for the

past few minutes,” Stiles added amidst the celebration. “It’s amazing to have my family here, and it’s really exciting.”

The 15-year-old Stiles entered the league this year after three seasons on the blueline with the U15 AAA Western Phantoms, based in Nackawic.

The Reds and Rockets were the lone New Brunswick squads to compete in the Maritime Major Female Hockey League (U18) against four Nova Scotiabased teams. However, the playoffs saw the two N.B. teams battle for the provincial crown.

As champion, the Reds will compete in Atlantic championship in Tyne Valley, P.E.I. “When I first joined the league, it was certainly an adjustment from having a 15-minute drive to the rink and back home, and then I was jumping into the car for two hours getting to a practice,” recalled Bird, who spent her first season in the league with the Fundy Nationals before joining the Reds program in Fredericton.

“It took a lot to get used to,” Bird continued.

Bird and Stiles decided to travel to Fredericton for practices twice a week rather than billet in the Capital Region.

“You really learn how to balance your time,” Bird

said. “There were times when we were playing soccer (in the fall) that we were leaving the soccer field, getting in the car, driving an hour to Fredericton for hockey practice. I think it’s worth it.”

“It takes a lot of organization coordinating everything and travel,” added Stiles.

Stiles also makes the daily 40-minute drive from Carlisle to Woodstock High School (WHS) and balances a part-time job in Hartland, along with the overlap of soccer and hockey in the fall and hockey and volleyball in the spring.

Last fall, both Bird and Stiles were part of the WHS Sr. Girls Soccer team that won the provincial banner in Hampton, winning both the semi-final and final games on a Saturday. That evening, they then travelled to Halifax, joining the Reds just before midnight.

But even with all the travel, both girls speak excitedly about what the all-female team means to them.

“I think it’s pretty incredible,” Stiles said. “It’s amazing to go from playing boy’s hockey where you’re seen as less to playing girl’s hockey because it’s such a confidence boost, and everyone’s there to just support each other.”

“It’s so important to be able to be around girls who went through similar things as you, growing up as some of the only girls in the league,” Bird added, “There is a lot more support towards each other.”

Bird credits the leadership of the Reds coaching staff – head coach Abby Clarke and assistant coaches Taylor Maschmeyer, Lauren Henman, Michael Eagles and Philemon Lawrence.

The Reds head coach deflects the praise right back at her players.

“I am quite lucky,” Clarke said. “These are multi-sport athletes, working on the road, but you would never know it. They never complain about any of it. This is their life, and they step up to the plate every day.

Bird is currently weighing university offers to play after graduating high school, with her eye on a physiotherapy degree.

Stiles is looking ahead to a couple more years in the Reds program.

“What I have always noticed and love about Katelynn is her dedication to the team and her hard work every day,” Clarke said. “She is always ready to show up and give her best.”

Stiles impressed her coach as a rookie.

“From the start of the

Katelynn Bird (left) and Hilary Stiles with the 2022 New Brunswick U18 Female AAA Championship. The EDSA Reds captured the provincial crown in Woodstock on March 13. (Submitted photo)

season until now, Hilary has improved immensely,” Clarke said. “It’s mindboggling how far she has come in just one season, and it’s all due to her hard work in practices and games. She takes everything in. She wants to be better.”

Bird finished the regu-

lar season with two goals and eight assists for 10 points in 20 games. Stiles notched four assists in 19 games on defense.

Both girls thanked coaches, teammates, friends and family for making travelling and playing possible.

RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 31

WHS, CNHS, SVHS bring home hoop titles Western valley schools dominate Final 12 tournament

RIVER VALLEY SUN

T

he Upper River St. John River Valley proved once again to be a hotbed of basketball as three high school teams brought home provincial championship banners from the Final 12 tournament at TD Station in Saint John on March 11 and 12.

Perth-Andover’s South-

ern Victoria High Vikings began the tournament Friday night, edging Canterbury High School Celtics 62-58 in the A girls final.Ainsley Green led the Vikings with 22 points, while Kyla Jewett and Aly Dickison paced the Celtics with 13.

The Woodstock Thunder girls finished strong Friday evening to edge the Rothesay Red Hawks 71-

66 to bring home the AA girls crown.

Danielle Alexander’s double-double led the way for the Thunder, putting up 22 points and hauling in 18 rebounds. Rothsay’s Neve Pearson hit for a gamehigh 30 points.

The boy’s AA final featured a pair of Carleton County rivals, with Florenceville-Bristol’s Carleton

North Stars outdistancing the Hartland High Huskies 75-55. Aiden Stone netted 17 points to lead the Stars, while Ethan Culberson hit a game-high 38 points for the Huskies.

The Dalhousie Regional High Condors outscored Grand Falls’ John Caldwell High School Golden Knights 51-46 to win the Boys A crown.

Moncton High Purple Knights took home the Boys banner at the AAA level, edging Moncton’s Bernice McNaughton High

74-73 in a thriller.

The Fredericton High Black Kats girls crushed the Moncton High School girls 83-47.

Speaking of Sports

Mike Clark: A busy, friendly, sports-loving man

By Andrew McCormick

P

erth-Andover’s Mike Clark is a busy man.

How busy? We’re talking one-armed paperhanger kind of busy. If I chose a song title to fit Clark, The Beatle’s “Eight Days a Week” would apply. It would take the rest of us an additional day of the week to match what Clark fits into his weekly schedule.

Now 36 and residing in Woodstock, Clark was diagnosed with Asperger’s syndrome at 24 years old.

Aspergers is a form of Autism Spectrum Disorder. Young people with Asperger’s Syndrome can have difficulty relating to others socially, and their behaviour and thinking patterns can be rigid and repetitive.

Clark has a clear message to anyone with a learning disability.

“Don’t give up and push yourself hard. Don’t be too hard on yourself, have a lot of fun and don’t worry about what others think”.

Sports have been an essential outlet for Clark since childhood.

Clark played minor baseball and minor soccer growing up in Perth.

At the age of 12, he

joined minor hockey for the first time. In year two, he switched to goaltender and has been in the crease ever since.

Clark suited up for a season with Southern Victoria High School Vikings and played Midget hockey with CYV Panthers. He donned the pads in a practice for the senior River Valley Thunder earlier this season.

Clark’s parents, Paul and Bev, often looked out their window and saw a driveway full of teenagers playing road hockey.

On Thunder game nights at the River Valley Civic Centre, Clark can be found amongst the group of local Perth-Andover hockey minds atop the action in “Coach’s Corner,” as he calls it.

Living with Aspergers has had its challenges for Clark. Growing up and still not diagnosed with Aspergers, Clark struggled socially in group settings, a common characteristic of the syndrome in kids.

Through the end of middle school, he was mainly taught one on one with the help of a teacher’s assistant.

Not until he entered

Southern Victoria High School did he become part of a standard class of students.

“I pushed for it. I thought I could handle being part of a large group. When I was younger, I had a lot of anxiety in groups. But at that point, I stopped worrying about other people’s thoughts. My parents supported my decision.”

People who know Clark today would be skeptical that he struggled within groups of people.

Always with a smile, Clark acknowledges everyone he sees with a large wave or joyful greeting. His upbeat nature and his positive energy are infectious.

Besides a full-time job as a meat cutter, Clark wrenches in weekly classes of Kung Fu, indoor ball hockey and occasionally boxing fitness classes.

The list doesn’t stop there.

“I’ve started back up running again. It makes you feel good and keeps your mind sharp. My goal is to do another half marathon by fall”, said Clark, also known as “cheeseburger” by friends because of his love for cheeseburgers.

Clark has run seven

half-marathons and ran his first full marathon in the spring of 2019.

Family is important to Clark. An only child, It’s evident Clark is proud of his Mom and Dad. “They’re nice people,” he laughs.

Paul Clark operated the grocery store in Perth-Andover for several years. Mike began working for his Dad when he was nine.

“I packed groceries and carried bags out to cars. I saved up and bought my first pair of rollerblades that way”, he says proudly.

Originally a Montreal Canadiens fan, Clark switched his allegiance to the Ottawa Senators after a hockey trip to Ottawa.

“My Dad played for the Perth Maroons, and they travelled by bus to Ottawa for a gentlemen’s hockey tournament. I went too. We went to a game, and I’ve been a Senators fan ever since”.

Clark’s next negative comment towards another person — will be his first.

His nature is to please others, and he’s careful not to put himself in compromising situations which raises his level of anxiety. He avoids “gossip” and similar

Mike Clark of Perth-Andover. (Submitted photo)

situations.

“That kind of talk has always been negative for me, so I’ll stay away if a group of people are speaking badly about someone.”

Clark has an understanding of his challenges.

A soon-to-be new father, Clark and his girlfriend Jami Jensen, together with Jami’s daughter Georgia, will welcome the new addi-

tion in April.

Disclaimer: I work with Mike. I’ve known him for less than a year but long enough to appreciate his good-natured character.

He appears to know everyone who crosses his path.

Or it could be he’s simply treating everyone as a friend.

“Cheeseburger” is the real deal.

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32

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