By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Woodstock Council’s policy decision to end the display of Pride banners downtown has left people on both sides of the issue feeling unfairly slighted.
While the gay and trans community feel the new policy pulled the town’s welcome mat from under their feet, Woodstock Mayor Trina Jones believes media and social media backlash unfairly targetted her and council members.
Rainbow Crosswalk Inc., a Woodstock-based organization supporting
the area’s 2SLGBTQIA+ community, took to social media to criticize the town’s plan to no longer display six Pride banners. They contend the town neglected to seek their input regarding their decision.
Mayor Jones blamed Rainbow Crosswalk representatives, accusing them of attacking the new policy on social media rather than talking directly to the town.
Jones also blamed the news media for creating a firestorm which unfairly painted the council in a bad light.
In a lengthy address during the April 30 regular council meeting, Jones accused the media of rushing to publish stories with or without all the facts.
Although Jones criticized the media for not reaching out to her after the issue of the Pride banners ignited on social media, she acknowledged she was unavailable for comment the day the stories broke.
During the April 30 council meeting, Jones asked Clerk Laura Gad -
See PRIDE on page 2
Seven in custody following violent kidnapping
Weeping family members pack Woodstock courtroom
By Judy Cole-Underhill
An alleged kidnapping with violence has rocked the community of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation).
Family members packed into Woodstock Provincial Court on May 9 and wept with emotion as multiple charges were read against six individuals from the First Nation community. A seventh accused from Tilley appeared in custody later that same day.
abasin, 27, Adam Perley, 33, and Troy Pelkey, 56, from Tilley, were arrested by RCMP following an incident on April 27-29 at Neqotkuk. They were remanded to jail to await their bail hearings.
The victim, a 54-year-old woman from Florenceville-Bristol, was kidnapped at gunpoint, held against her will, assaulted, and administered a noxious substance with intent to extort $10,000. She was treated at a hospital with significant but nonlife-threatening injuries
and has since been released.
A total of 62 charges were laid, including using a handgun to kidnap a female victim, extortion, uttering threats, assault, assault causing bodily harm, administering a noxious substance, forcible confinement using a choke hold, plastic bag and tape, possession of a prohibited firearm, pointing a firearm, careless use of a firearm, resisting arrest, unlawful confinement, theft of a motor vehicle, obstructing justice by dis -
posing of evidence, and possession of a firearm without a licence.
Troy Pelkey appeared in court on May 10 in custody by video for a bail hearing and was denied bail. He returns to court in custody for plea on May 28 at 9:30 a.m.
Sheena Sappier appeared in court in custody by video on May 9, and her bail hearing was adjourned until May 16 at 1:30 p.m. to allow her time to secure legal
The decision not to erect Pride banners along Woodstock’s Main Street this year has left people on both sides of the issue feeling unfairly slighted. (Jim Dumville photo)
PRIDE
Continued from page 1
das to read a letter from Rainbow Crosswalk vice president and health resource officer Scott McCallum. The letter was initially read into the record at the March 26 council meeting.
“Despite our advocacy efforts over the past six months, the Woodstock Town Council has informed The Rainbow Crosswalk that under their new policy (#2023–11 Banner, Flags, Proclamation and Lighting Policy), they will not be hanging the Pride banners this year,” McCallum wrote.
Jones also again shared her March 26 response.
“Last year, this council took a purposeful, considered and thoughtful approach with respect to the development, discussion and implementation of Policy #2023–11 Banner, Flags, Proclamation and Lighting Policy,” the mayor explained.
The town approved the policy last November.
Jones said the council based its decision on the recommendation of a special ad hoc committee tasked with considering “the reality of the financial and human resources capital constraints of the town
KIDNAPPING
Continued from page 1
counsel.
Jacob Perley, Ashley Paul, Keegan Paul, Adam Perley, and Preston Sockabasin appeared in court in custody by video on May 9, and their bail hearings were adjourned until May 23 at 9:30 a.m. to allow them time to secure legal counsel.
Sockabasin also faces separate charges of dangerous driving and flight from police for an incident on May 7.
Jacob Perley was also charged with breaching a conditional sentence order.
The RCMP police dog service and air services assisted with the investigation and arrests of the individuals charged. Police say the investigation is ongoing. A search warrant was executed at a residence at Neqotkuk on May 6.
and balanced those with the interests of stakeholders, our community members, and our mandate.”
During her address at the April 30 council meeting, Jones expressed reluctance to deal further with the press outside a scheduled in-depth interview.
“If any of the press are simply looking for a 30-second sound bite from me, please don’t contact me for a follow up on this,” she said.
She added she would not be available for an interview for the balance of the week, listing several items on her busy schedule.
Jones also refused questions from the River Valley Sun and the CBC following the regular council meeting.
While Rainbow Crosswalk founder and president Amanda Lightbody expressed disappointment with the council’s decision, she said the organization will turn its focus to other ways to demonstrate that Woodstock remains an inclusive community.
She said the town provided them with the Pride banners, and they will seek businesses and other communities willing to display them.
Lightbody said she hopes to see a large
turnout for a planned Rainbow Week of Action Rally at Citizen’s Square in Woodstock on May 17, International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. New Brunswick Official Opposition Leader Susan Holt will be one of the guest speakers at the event.
Lightbody explained the initial decision to display the Pride banners came from the town alone, noting her organization didn’t exist at the time of that decision by a former mayor and council.
Former Mayor Art Slipp said he and the council decided to hang the banners a few years after the Woodstock High School girl’s hockey team earned a New Brunswick Human Rights Award for standing up in support of teammates being bullied about their sexual orientation.
Slipp said the council’s first efforts to quell prejudice against the 2SLGBTQIA+ community consisted of painting rainbow crosswalks. With the high cost of repainting the quickly disappearing crosswalks, plus ongoing vandalism, he said the town purchased and displayed the banners.
Bill Hogan, Carleton MLA and education minister, was a Woodstock
High School staff member when the hockey team earned the human rights award. He also served on the council that supported the display of Pride banners.
However, Hogan told the CBC that he supported the current council’s decision.
“It’s not targeted at any one group,” he said in a story by CBC reporter Hadeel Ibrahim.
Hogan, as education minister, now sits at the centre of what Rainbow Crosswalk and national advocacy groups describe as growing hatred against queer and trans communities.
Lightbody and McCallum said the Woodstock council decision falls at a concerning time, noting the growing examples of anti-gay and anti-trans efforts across the province and country, citing Hogan’s changes to Policy 713 as an example.
Hogan is leading his government’s battle against several district education councils and teaching organizations in an effort to impose changes that would require school staff to obtain the consent of parents if a student under the age of 16 wants to adopt a new name and pronoun at school that reflects their gender identity.
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. Valley Outreach offers support from Nackawic to Plaster Rock. For more information, please contact Manon Albert, Valley Outreach Coordinator, by calling 1-506-328-9680, or text 1-506-328-7246, or email valleyoutreach@nb.aibn.com or reach out on Facebook Messenger.
Woodstock Living Free Alcoholics Anonymous
The local AA group “Living Free” meet at the St. Luke’s Parish Hall at 104 Church Street, Woodstock at 7 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. For more information, please call 1-800-340-4966 or email meetinglist@district5aa.ca
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 news, 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.
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, Wednesdays 7 to 8 p.m. at the Woodstock Baptist Church, 785 Main St., Woodstock. Woodstock Addictions and Mental Health 506-325-4419 Mon to Fri 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Perth-Andover Addictions & Mental Health 506-273-4701 Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Mental Health Mobile Crisis Unit 1-888-667-0444 - 7 days a week from 2 to 10 p.m.
Inpatient Detoxification Services: access by self-referral only; all admissions are voluntary. The detoxification unit provides inpatient treatment for the withdrawal from mood-altering substances such as alcohol, cocaine, opiates and other drugs. Fredericton Detoxification Unit 506-452-5525 Located at 65 Brunswick St., Fredericton, NB. A 10-bed unit that provides medical support, education, and recovery planning for substance abuse and gambling. Phone 506-452-5525; accepts messages only, calls are returned to plan admissions Mon-Fri. Miramichi Detoxification Unit 506-623-6175 Located at 500 Water St., Miramichi. NB.
Moncton Detoxification Unit 506-856-2333 Located at 81 Albert St., Moncton, NB.
Ridgewood Addiction Services 506-674-4300 Located at 416 Bay St., South Bay, Saint John, NB provides a range of services for individuals, youth and family members affected by substance abuse and gambling.
Other Residential rehabilitation facilities
Ridgewood Centre (Saint John) 506-647-4300 Located at 416 Bay St., South Bay, Saint John, NB.
Campbellton Regional Addiction Services 506-789-7055 Located at 53 Gallant Dr., Campbellton, NB.
Rising Sun Treatment Centre (First Nations) 506-627-4626
Located at 31 Riverview Rd., Eel Ground, NB.
Portage Atlantic 1-888-735-9800 Located at Cassidy Lake, NB, is a non-profit organization established in 1995, operates a residential drug addiction rehabilitation centre for Atlantic Canada youth (14-21) in New Brunswick.
Early Recovery Group, Woodstock - each Wednesday (unless school is closed due to weather) from 9:30 - 11:00 a.m. at Bicentennial Boardroom (1st Floor), 200 King Street, Bicentennial Place, Woodstock, NB.
Early Recovery Group, Perth-Andover - each Tuesday at 1 p.m. at the Mental Health and Addictions at 35F Tribe Rd., Perth-Andover, NB.
Harvest House Woodstock MAMA Meetings (Mothers Against Meth Addiction) on Wednesdays at 7 p.m. This is a women-only group, providing a safe place for women struggling with family members whose lives are being destroyed by drug abuse. For more info, contact Natasha Smith at (506) 323-9315. Harvest House also offers other recovery programs. For more information, contact them at (506) 594-5000.
*IN AN EMERGENCY, CALL
911
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/Distribution Manager: Stephen Chisholm (506) 324-5711 www.rivervalleysun.ca ISSN # 2562-3893
Lakeland Ridges’ new mayor ready for challenges
Leonard Foster believes council members ‘had time to reflect’
By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Lakeland Ridge resi-
dents elected Leonard Foster as its new mayor and the man to take the helm as the entire council returns from suspension.
The Green Mountain resident admits he’s unsure of the timing and process leading to his new role, but he’s confident he and council can chart a positive direction.
Foster will replace former Mayor Tanya Cloutier, who resigned while the entire council was under suspension. Ward 4 Councillors Mark Grant and Mike Furrow also resigned.
Dustin Craig Buckingham, the only candidate for the Ward 4 seats, won by acclamation.
Foster said his first step is to update himself on municipal issues and plans.
“Basically, I’ll find out what has been happening,”
he said.
Foster explained he would get more information about the issues from departing superintendent Steve Manuel and Lakeland Ridges staff.
He said he briefly talked with CAO Suzie Patterson on Tuesday following his May 6 election win.
Less than a week before the byelection, the Department of Local Government announced that the province would lift the council’s suspension. Under the new mayor’s guidance, council members will return to active duty effective May 15.
The province suspended the Lakeland Ridges mayor and council and appointed a superintendent to oversee the rural community operation in July 2023. Over that time, the department replaced the supervisor three times.
The current supervisor will return the community’s governance to the council on May 15.
In the race for mayor, Foster defeated challengers, former Meductic Mayor Lance Graham and Eric Cummings.
Foster earned 229 votes, to Graham’s 181 and Cummings’ 148.
While he recognizes he’ll be stepping into a challenging situation, Foster said he ran to make a positive difference.
He believes council members can correct the issues that led to the suspension and expects them to learn from the experience.
“Everyone had time to reflect,” Foster said.
The new mayor said his years chairing a non-profit board provided experience in building consensus. He
said he’s learned over the years that people have more in common than differences, but sometimes, those differences get amplified.
“Sometimes you have to agree to disagree,” Foster said.
“Council essentially runs the show,” Foster said, adding it’s the mayor’s job to guide council members and work with staff to fulfill their wishes.
He said the mayor’s job is to steer the ship rather than chart the course.
Foster said he knows most of the current council members and welcomes Buckingham’s addition. He also said he knows the new Ward 4 councillor well and describes him as devoted to his community.
The Lakeland Ridges Rural Community Council will return to office short
one council seat in Ward 4.
Foster acknowledged Lakeland Ridges consists of several dynamic communities with diverging interests, but he believes all residents want the best for the entire region. He said part of his role is to get everyone pulling together. Foster stressed the importance of communication and transparency, noting Lakeland Ridges residents need to be informed.
“We have to ensure everyone out there is kept up to date,” he said.
Nackawic-Millville swears in new councillor
Steve Meldrum takes office after acclimation to Ward
By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Dumfries resident Steven Meldrum took the oath of office Monday, May 6, before taking his seat as Nackawic-Millville’s Ward 5 representative.
Meldrum, the former deputy chief of the Dumfries Fire Department, was acclaimed as the only candidate to fill the seat left vacant following Michael Arbuckle’s death on Oct. 31, 2023.
The 45-year-old Arbuckle, a long-time community leader, became a member of the inaugural Nackawic-Millville Rural Community Council on Jan. 1, 2023, follow-
ing the amalgamation of Nackawic, Millville and surrounding local service districts. He died after a five-year battle with cancer.
As he welcomed Meldrum to the council team, Mayor Tim Fox said he’s certain Arbuckle would approve of who’s replacing him around the council table.
Fox noted the bright rainbow visible over the St. John River through the council chamber’s large window as Meldrum recited his oath of office.
“I’ll take that as a sign,” he said.
The mayor expressed confidence Meldrum will be a strong representative on council.
“You and I have had a few chats,” Fox told Meldrum. “We share the same love for our community. You’ll fit in well with this council.”
Fox later noted that Meldrum had already agreed to serve on the public works committee, which is chaired by Coun. Robert Simpson.
Nackawic-Millville’s newly hired Director of Public Works and Utility, Mike Faubert, attended the May 6 council meeting.
He took over the position on April 29.
Meldrum said Dumfries residents suggested he seek office, so he took the plunge into municipal politics.
“I’m interested in how the money is spent,” he said.
Meldrum said he’s new to any level of politics.
“The most involvement I had was being the deputy chief of the fire department in Dumfries,” he said.
Meldrum said he is familiar with council members and looks forward to working with them to improve the rural community.
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New Lakeland Ridges Mayor Leonard Foster. (Jim Dumville photo)
Steven Meldrum is the new Ward 5 councillor in Nackawic-Millville. (Jim Dumville photo)
Rainbow Week of Action to close with rally
By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
To end the Rainbow Week of Action from May 11 to 17, Rainbow Crosswalk Inc. will host a rally in downtown Woodstock to show support for the region’s queer and trans community.
Rainbow Crosswalk Inc. founder and president Amanda Lightbody said the rally will coincide with the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia. It will be held at Citizen’s Square on Chapel Street, next to the L.P. Fisher Public Library, at noon on Friday, May 17.
Lightbody said organizers are finalizing a list of guest speakers and other details for the event.
She said New Brunswick Official Opposition Leader Susan Holt agreed to be one of the guest speakers. Other speakers will include a member of the Woodstock High School Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) and a former resident who experienced conversion therapy.
The Rainbow Week of Action and rally fall at a moment when Woodstock’s support for the 2SLGBTQ+ community is being questioned.
The mayor and council
recently approved a policy change which ended the annual placement of Pride banners in downtown Woodstock. Mayor Trina Jones explained the new policy, which limits banners to heritage and tourism groups, unintentionally affected Pride banner displays.
Rainbow Crosswalk Inc. raised concerns about the decision.
While it made an exception for the display of veterans’ banners during the lead-up to Remembrance Day, the council denied an exemption for the Pride banners.
The town displayed six pride banners along Main Street for parts of May and June for several years.
While the decision against the Pride banners may reflect only a policy change to clarify the town’s handling of requests for banners, flags, proclamations and special lights, Lightbody said the decision comes at a time of rising anti-2SLGBTQIA sentiment.
“In 2017, Woodstock held its first rally for the rainbow crosswalk, and now seven years later, it is The Rainbow Crosswalk that will be holding a
rally by its residents and for its residents to express themselves about the ever-rising anti-2SLGBTQIA hate powered by far-right groups and opportunistic politicians who are scapegoating 2SLGBTQ+ people for political gain,” Lightbody explained.
She explained the Woodstock event will coincide with similar actions across Canada led by groups advocating for social and gender justice.
“Far rights groups and cynical politicians are fanning intolerance and scapegoating queer and trans people for political gain,” said Fae Johnstone, Executive Director of the Society of Queer Momentum. “Three Canadian Premiers have begun rolling back the rights and freedoms of LGBTQ+ people. Anti-2SLGBTQIA+ hate, stigmatizing rhetoric and regressive policies are resurgent. In response, Momentum is calling for the biggest national 2SLGBTQIA+ action since Marriage Equality. We’re drawing a line in the sand. We are never going to be forced back into the closet.”
Nova Scotia MLA and President of Momentum,
Lisa Lachance, raises concern queer and trans people are losing gains made over recent years and decades.
“For a long time, it looked like Canada was moving towards real equality for queer and trans people. Today, things have started sliding backward,” said Halifax Citadel-Sable Island MLA. “Our Rainbow Week of Action is an opportunity for people across the country to come together and say clearly with one voice
that we want freedom and equality for all. Moms and dads, friends, family members and neighbours, we are all lifting up our voices to reject hate and advance a more free, equal and socially just future — for all our families.”
Lightbody hopes residents of Woodstock and surrounding communities will turn out to support the rally. She stressed that the mayor and council’s decision reflects only their view, not the widespread view of residents.
Lightbody hopes the controversy doesn’t paint an unfair picture of Woodstock, noting that she believes many residents and business owners still promote the town as an inclusive community.
Despite its recent Pride banner decision, the Rainbow Week of Action Rally poster notes Woodstock Town Council proclaimed the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia.
Irving says proposed wind farm could cut N.B. emissions by 9% 58 turbines to bring 350 megawatts of power to JDI forestry lands in Carleton County
By Andrew Bates – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Telegraph Journal
Awind farm in Carleton County proposed by J.D. Irving, Limited could cut New Brunswick’s greenhouse gas emissions by nine per cent when it’s up and running, according to a report.
The province’s ministry of environment and local government is reviewing a proposal from JDI for a 58-turbine wind farm 20 kilometres east of Hartland, according to its website.
According to the environmental impact assessment, conducted by engineering firm Hatch Ltd. for JDI and registered April 18, the Brighton Mountain Wind Farm project would be built in two sections on JDI-owned forestry land.
The project would be JDI’s first wind farm built as a developer, and would have a total capacity of 350 megawatts when installed, which it would sell to the NB Power grid, the document reads. In the assessment, JDI says it wants to insulate itself against shifting energy prices and reduce emissions from the Irving forest supply chain, including pulp production, which it says is one of the chain’s “major contributors” to emissions due to high energy consumption.
When the project is fully underway, reducing the grid’s dependency on fossil fuels would reduce the greenhouse gas emissions from power generation by approximately 1.1 million metric tonnes annually, the assessment reads. That would cut New Brunswick’s emissions from electricity generation by 33 per cent from 2021 levels, according to the document, and would cut the province’s total emissions by nine per cent.
“This new wind project will supply New Brunswick’s grid with more renewable energy, and will support maintaining the carbon neutrality of our company’s forest supply chain,” JDI’s vice-president of communications, Anne McInerney, said in an email.
NB Power spokesperson D’Arcy Walsh said the utility doesn’t have any purchase agreements in place yet, and said it would be
From
“too early to comment” on the project.
There is no current date for when the project will be completed in full. The wind farm is being planned in two stages, with the first stage including 34 turbines set to generate 200 megawatts, at a cost of $550 million, according to a JDI press release. Stage one is planned to begin construction in 2025 and come online in 2027, with phase 2 “very much undetermined,” according to JDI. The turbines would have a lifespan of 25 years, after which the project could be decommissioned.
The project, between Highway 107 to the north and 104 to the south, is located on the borders of two municipalities: Hartland and Carleton North, which includes the communities of Juniper, directly north of the project, and Florenceville-Bristol, 26 kilometres to the east. The area is in traditional Wolastaqey Nation and Mi’kmaq territory, the assessment reads, and Wokstak (Woodstock) First Nation is located 60 kilometres to the south.
“Consultation has begun and is ongoing,” McInerney said. “We are following our established commitments to early engagement with Indigenous communities in New Brunswick.”
Logan Perley, communications coordinator for the Wolastoqey Nation in New Brunswick, said it’s “early days” on the application and the nation is still reviewing it.
Amy McIntosh, CAO for Carleton North, declined comment on behalf of the district, saying they’re hoping to learn more details about the project in the coming weeks. Michelle Derrah, communications specialist for Hartland, said Thursday the town became aware of the project the day before, and will ask JDI for a public presentation at a council meeting.
Some wind farm projects have ran into opposition from nearby communities, with a group in Wentworth Valley, N.S., unsuccessfully challenging a 17-turbine project there
in the province’s Supreme Court in January over concerns around the impact to endangered moose species and loss of recreational trails.
In 2022, a project on the Acadian Peninsula proposed by Naveco Power Inc. was scrapped by NB Power after the city of Bathurst pulled out in 2019 over financial concerns. Residents in the community of Anse-Bleue had raised concern over the proximity to the community and loss of forest space.
McInerney said the project is located on “rural, sparsely populated and heavily forested land” and once construction wraps up, “there are no plans to change the way the land is used or accessed.”
According to the assessment, there are few cabins located on and off JDI property and there are recreational trails, which will require engagement with ATV and snowmobile groups. In winter, some limits to access to the area could be needed due to concerns of “ice throw” from the turbines, according to the statement.
Research on bird and bat flight patterns is ongoing, according to the statement, and mitigation is planned to “prevent avian mortality,” with two years of post-construction monitoring planned.
McInerney noted that while it’s JDI’s first wind project as a developer, they have been involved in construction and maintenance of other wind farms through Irving Equipment Ltd. and Gulf Operators. JDI said “more than 200” temporary jobs would be established during construction, with between 10 and 14 permanent positions once the project is online.
According to the assessment, 30 km of new roads on the project land would be needed to build assembly pads, with five on-site quarries needed to gather materials and 19
km of power lines would be needed to hook the project into the grid. Components would be shipped to the Port of Saint John and Port of Bayside and transported via highway to the project, the assessment reads.
The assessment says the project’s development area of 18.77 square kilometres and physical footprint of 3.72 square kilometres “has been optimized to reduce environmental impact to the greatest extent possible,” including mitigation measures and post-construction monitoring.
Nine per cent of the
project area - 161 hectares - is wetlands, with half of that lying in the proposed power line corridor. The assessment says wetland impact would be “largely temporary,” though there may be as much as 83 hectares of “permanent footprint” from power poles. None of the wetlands are designated as provincially significant, according to the assessment.
In addition to the EIA approval process and local planning applications, the project requires 16 other federal and provincial approvals and permits, according to the assessment.
J.D. Irving, Limited’s Brighton Mountain Wind Farm project would bring a total of 58 turbines and 350 megawatts of power to forestry land it owns in Carleton County, according to an environmental impact assessment. A photomontage shows the potential view of turbines from an ATV trail on the site. (Submitted photo/Hatch Ltd.)
Woodstock Council news
Town revamps PAC and library board appointments, sets process to redesign town logo and tagline, and details mining exploration process
By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Appointments to PAC
Council approved the appointment of members to the planning advisory committee during its April 16 council meeting.
CAO Allan Walker told council that the committee, composed of Planning and Development Director Andrew Garnett, Deputy Mayor Mark Rogers, Coun. Mike Martin, Clerk Laura Gadda and himself had plenty of “great applications” from which to choose.
Walker and Mayor Trina Jones said one goal in selecting committee members was to have representatives from as many of the five wards as possible.
Appointed PAC members include:
Garth McCrea – reap
2026
Kurt Young - reappointed for a 3-year term
Sara Leech – current term expires in 2025
Councillors Jeff Bradbury and Will Belyea will share their role as council representatives on the committee.
Mining companies plan further exploration this summer
Two firms notified Woodstock of plans to continue exploration of potential manganese mines within the town boundaries.
CAO Walker explained that the notifications are primarily meant to inform the town of the companies’ actions.
“We are not in a position to approve their work,” he said. “They are
panies plan to explore and the time of their operations.
He said the form also asked the mining firms to state whether the explorations would involve blasting, cause disruptions, or require town resources and confirm that they obtained proper consent from property owners.
Town redesigning logo and branding
Council is looking to rebrand the Town of Woodstock with a new logo and tagline. During his report to council on April 30, CAO Walker said council members and staff will work together to redesign the logo, while they will seek public input for the town’s new tagline or motto.
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“It’s going to be in two parts,” Walker explained. “The logo itself, we will be finalizing that internally.”
He said the town will allow the public to weigh in on the tagline.
“Tell us your thoughts. It’s not a plebiscite. We’re not taking a vote,” Walker explained. “Give us your feedback.”
He explained that the town would lay out the “types of things we want the public to think about.”
The new tagline would replace “New Brunswick’s First Town. In its request for submissions, the town suggested the new tagline should be “short, memorable and differentiate this community from others in the region/province.”
The request said a tagline should apply to all wards, be six words or less and be easily understood.
The deadline to submit a tagline is May 25. Anyone submitting a chosen tagline would be
eligible for a draw for a basket of swag featuring the town’s new branding look.
Changes to library board appointments
Council approved Mark Dykeman’s reappointment to the L.P. Fisher Public Library board on the recommendation of Coun. Crista McCartney, the town’s representative on the board. However, they recommended future changes in the appointment process.
McCartney explained Dykeman, who also served on three provincial library boards, brings leadership and
knowledge to the town’s library.
During the issue discussion, most council members agreed that future appointments should follow the process currently used for PAC appointments.
They agreed to work with the library board to develop criteria and include a board member on the town selection committee.
Mayor Jones explained that current and former board members could reapply for a position when their terms end and acknowledged that many could be reappointed.
The Woodstock logo will change with new colours and design in the near future. (Jim Dumville photo)
Rotary Bingo
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Woodstock Region:
Mike’s Rite Stop
Kojax PetroCan
Fen’s Irving, Connell St.
Canadian Tire Gas Bar
Grafton SmartStop
Bunting’s Grocery
Newnham & Slipp
The Corner Store
Murray’s Irving
Maliseet Fuels I
Maliseet Fuels II
Race Trac Gas, Plaster Rock BINGO CARDS CAN BE PURCHASED AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS: All proceeds from ROTARY BINGO go right back INto your community!
Down River:
Debec General Store
Meductic PetroCan
Russell’s, Canterbury
Ryan’s Pharmacy, Nackawic
Up River:
Hartland Valu Foods
Courtyard Hardware
Coldstream Convenience Lakeville Convenience
Centreville Valu Foods
Florenceville Irving
Mark’s The Spot, Bath Scholten’s, Perth-Andover
Squeaky’s, Perth-Andover
Neqotkuk Truck Stop
WPF service would come at cost for taxpayers in outlying wards
Town
to hold meetings to see if residents will accept tax hike to replace RCMP with municipal force
By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Will taxpayers agree to a tax hike to replace the RCMP with the Woodstock Police Force?
That’s the question Woodstock Council needs to answer after Public Safety Minister Kris Austin gave the town permission to extend its municipal policing service to all wards.
In an update at the Tuesday, April 16, council meeting, Mayor Trina Jones confirmed the minister, in a March 28 letter, approved the town’s plan to extend services to all corners of the newly expanded municipality.
The mayor explained that the minister based his decision on Woodstock’s managerial review and detailed policing services assessment it submitted last year at the department’s request.
She said the minister’s letter expresses confidence that the WPF can take over the new territory.
The Woodstock Police Department’s comprehensive plan outlined the level
of staffing, services, and costs associated with expanding its coverage from Ward 4, the former town of Woodstock, to include Wards 1, 2, 3, and 5.
Jones explained the Department of Public Safety requested a similar plan from all communities with municipal forces following municipal reform.
She said no New Brunswick police force faced such a significant expansion as the WPF, whose coverage area would grow from 15 sq. km and 5,500 people to 500 sq. km and a population of more than 12,000.
The Woodstock policing plan, created under the guidance of Chief Gary Forward, outlines a model providing 24-7 service and regular patrols in each of Woodstock’s four wars. It offers a level of service surpassing national policing standards and encompasses the latest technology and methods.
When submitting the plan, Woodstock officials
stressed the expanded plan would only be affordable with financial support from the province. The expanded force would double staffing from 22 to 44 members and increase the town budget from an estimated $3.3 million to $7.7 million.
“I had expressed financial feasibility concerns to Minister Austin after the policing services assessment was submitted and that we would at minimum need transitionary funds and likely subsidization in order to take over the full jurisdiction,” the mayor said at Tuesday’s meeting.
Jones said Minister Austin also recognized the Woodstock Police Force model is “vastly different” from the RCMP model, which currently polices the town’s outlying communities.
The mayor said if the town extends its services to the entire community, it wants to provide a level of service equal to that it currently provides residents of the former town.
“As we have shared previously, we are not interested in swapping out a like-for-like service and we recognize that it means the costs of policing would be higher for the outside wards,” she said.
Jones said the town contacted the department regarding property tax limitations and the potential for a third year of transition funds and is awaiting a response.
She said the town is not interested in significantly rolling back its proposed model, although it will study opportunities to reduce costs without reducing services.
Jones said she believes the town can provide policing services for a modest tax increase of under the five-cent per $100 cap per year.
The mayor said she and Chief Forward plan to host public forums in each affected ward, similar to those held in Woodstock before the town submitted its original plan to the prov-
ince.
She said the decision to expand the police remains with the town, which will only make it with significant input from the taxpayers.
“Once we complete our thorough review and we have some additional questions answered by Minister Austin’s department, and we determine the tax increase implications for all wards, we will do public consultation to gauge the interest of our community members,” she said.
Following the meeting, the mayor said the council must consider policing
THANK YOU! From the Eclipse Committee
costs in conjunction with the entire town budget. She said policing costs can’t steal funding from other vital services.
Jones said she is unaware of any provincial policing model study but believes Woodstock, should it expand, would provide an excellent template for rural policing.
While Minister Austin approved Woodstock’s expansion plan, it rejected neighbouring Carleton North and Hartland’s proposal to create a new municipal force to replace the RCMP.
The Eclipse Committee would like to thank the residents of Woodstock for their part in the Eclipse and making visitors feel welcomed to our community. It was a once in lifetime event with many wonderful memories made.
Thank you to the sponsors, which included the Town of Woodstock, Tarp Rite, the Greater Woodstock Chamber of Commerce, FMI, Avondale Kitchens, Community Metal, Manulife Wealth, Covey Basics, Connell Chrysler, Home Zone Electronics, K-Line Construction, Clark Oil, Palmer Fabrications, Ignite, the Anglophone School District West, NBCC, The Scene Promotions, KKP, Wicked Good Graphics, Ashley Marie Creative Studios, and The Martin Boys.
Thank you to all the volunteers and organizations that held events over the Eclipse Festival weekend, and to the organizations that assisted with the viewing sites, including Carleton Ground Search and Rescue, the 318 Army Cadets, Countryside 4-H Club, and the River Valley ATV Club.
Thanks for helping us make this historic event so memorable! We couldn’t have done this without you!
Woodstock Police Chief Gary Forward and Mayor Trina Jones will hold public sessions in each ward in Woodstock to guage public interest in replacing the RCMP with the expanded Woodstock Police Force. (Jim Dumville photo)
The Woodstock Eclipse Committee, from left, Celine Bourque, Mandy Scott, Tobi Pirie, Julie Calhoun-Williams, and Sandra Habold. Missing from photo: Geneva Shaw.
TAKONUTOMAKONUWAL
Indigenous News and Features Sponsored by Wotstak (Woodstock) First Nation
‘We
grieve and we are angry’
Wolastoqey Chiefs blame feds, province in wake of homicide
By John Chilibeck, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Daily Gleaner
T
he six Chiefs of the Wolastoqey Nation in New Brunswick have reacted angrily to the death of Sheri Sabattis, the sister of an Indigenous chief who police say was a homicide victim last weekend.
In a statement issued late Thursday, the chiefs blamed provincial and federal authorities for not ensuring First Nation laws were enforced. Sabattis, 54, a member of Oromocto First Nation, was the younger sister of Chief Shelley Sabattis.
The accused, Jared Smith, 38, of nearby Burton, is not a member of Oromocto First Nation or any Wolastoqey community.
He had earlier been banished by the Oromocto chief and council from entering the community, a measure police do not enforce.
He made a brief court appearance Monday, but because he didn’t have a lawyer, his hearing was set aside until May 27. He remains in custody at the Saint John jail.
“Our entire Nation mourns with the fam -
ily of Sheri Sabattis for this senseless loss of a beautiful life,” read the statement. “We grieve and we are angry.
“As First Nations with powers granted and recognized under Federal legislation such as the Indian Act and pursuant to our inherent right to self-government, we have the right to pass laws about removing and punishing trespassers on our reserves. We have exercised this right with laws to protect our communities from criminals who bring violence and poison our people.
“We have sought support from Provincial and Federal entities to help us enforce these laws and protect our communities, but it has fallen on deaf ears leaving us in a legal void,” the notice said.
The New Brunswick RCMP issued a statement to Brunswick News in response to the controversy.
Cpl. Hans Ouellette, a spokesman for the Mounties, said enforcement of band council bylaws in Indigenous communities in Canada was
multifaceted, and varied from one community to the next.
“Although band council bylaws do not fall under the Criminal Code of Canada, we work regularly with Indigenous communities to identify issues of local concern, discuss solutions, and to set local policing priorities,” he wrote in an email.
“As police, we have to work within the parameters of our current authorities – both to ensure investigations are conducted justly and fairly, and to ensure we have the evidence needed to support charges.”
The spokesman for the force also said they understood frustrations about crime.
“Every crime that is committed in a community has an effect not only the direct victim, but everyone around them – it impacts our general sense of safety. We want to work with our communities to help everyone be safe.”
But the chiefs said for decades, they had implored federal and provincial governments
to address policing and protocols in their communities, to no avail.
“We continue to seek collaboration in policing and enforcement, but nothing gets done and unfortunately, the most vulnerable members of our communities pay the price.”
The chiefs demanded an answer from the federal and provincial gov -
ernments on a plan for collaborative policing and enforcement in their communities.
“We will not be idle while our community members suffer due to negligence, inaction, and justice systems that were never designed to support our people.”
They also said as Red Dress Day approached on Sunday – a national
day to recognize missing and murdered Indigenous girls, women and two-spirit people – they wanted justice for Sheri Sabattis and accountability from the authorities who have failed to act.
“We demand that law enforcement seriously and thoroughly investigate this crime and prosecute accordingly.”
The WFN Healthy Hamper Program is a bulk-buying initiative that allows people to get a large bag full of produce, once a month, for a lot less than you’d buy the goods in stores! To learn more or sign up, email Holly Polchies at hollypolchies@yahoo.ca to get all the information you need to join!
Sheri Sabattis, 54, was found dead at a residence in Oromocto First Nation on April 27. (Submitted photo)
DISPATCHES
FROM MY MESSY DESK
By Theresa Blackburn
When I was growing up, if you were gay or trans, you feared for your safety. If you had children who loved people of the same sex or dressed like the opposite gender, you were constantly worried. When I was in college, there were some horrifying and very public cases of teenagers who were murdered. Many of us knew someone ‘different’ who took their own life.
In the late 1980s and throughout the ‘90s, we began to demand equality; we helped fight for acceptance and cheered milestones, like in 1998 when the Supreme Court of Canada declared denying samesex surviving partners pension benefits unconstitutional. But here we are again, defending the rights of this minority so they can freely love who they love, dress how they dress, and choose their pronouns.
The statistics related to the wellbeing of 2SLGBTQIA+ youth are upsetting. Teenagers who identify with this community are four times more likely to attempt suicide than their straight, cisgender peers.
Statistics Canada’s latest data (2021) says that approximately 1 in 10 youth report being a member of this community, and 1.3 million Canadians identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ – that’s 4.4 per cent of our population. Members of this community are more likely to live in poverty compared to the straight population, and nearly 40 per cent of 2SLGBTQIA+ members have at-
Why supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ matters
tempted suicide, which is more than double the rate in the cisgender population.
Canadian data on hate crimes based on sexual orientation says violence against this community rose by 64 per cent between 2019 and 2021 – the highest level in five years. It feels like we’re living in a time warp.
Our provincial government is embroiled in a legal battle related to children’s rights and the Department of Education’s Policy 713, which “sets minimum requirements for school districts and public schools to create a safe, welcoming, inclusive and affirming school environment for all students, families, and allies who identify or are perceived as LGBTQI2S+.”
Our 2SLGBTQIA+ youth often deal with mental health crises at an early age as they try to grapple with how their family, friends, and community will accept them.
Suicide statistics are the reason the “It Gets Better” campaign was launched in 2010. People may remember support videos and commercials that included personal stories of famous 2SLGBTQIA+ Canadians like Rick Mercer, Rex Harrington, Ann-Marie MacDonald, and others. The campaign reminded 2SLGBTQIA+ youth that life does get better and the world needs them. Government decisions of late aren’t sending that message at a time when support for this vulnerable community is no longer about tolerance but is key to people’s survival.
Some say the decision to remove the Pride banners from downtown Woodstock is no big deal, but those of us who have stayed up all night with someone who wanted to kill themselves because they believed they would never be accepted think otherwise.
Some say that parental rights should trump the rights of children, but those of us who remember friends being beaten by parents or kicked out of their home at age 14 because they came out of the closet also think otherwise.
Many debates have ensued, and often, Bible verses are used to make points. I wish people were as well acquainted with our Canadian Charter of Rights and Free-
Letters to the Editor
doms as they are with Scripture. Section 15 of the charter states that “every individual is to be considered equal regardless of religion, race, national or ethnic origin, colour, sex, age, or physical or mental disability.”
The Canadian Civil Liberties Association is challenging the changes made to Policy 713 by Education Minister Bill Hogan because they “violate the rights and threaten the safety and wellbeing of Trans and gender diverse students.”
The association’s website goes on to say, “many students may choose to confide in the parents about their gender identity. However, for other Trans and genderdiverse students, it may not be safe to do so. These students are at an increased risk of dropping out of school, running away from home, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. These risks are not trivial. Health professionals, human rights experts, educators, and youth advocates stress that it is not in the best interests of young people to force them to come out to their parents before they are ready.”
This is the same organization that challenged the government’s criminal code so law-abiding gun collectors who were in possession of ‘restricted’ weapons would not face the same penalties as those who commit crimes with guns. The organization goes after government laws and policies that infringe on our rights — the rights of all Canadians, including children. You can’t agree with one set of rights because it suits you and then go against another set because it doesn’t adhere to your beliefs. That’s not how the charter works.
Elizabeth J. Meyer, Ph. D., is a Professor of Educational Foundations Policy and Practice at the School of Education at the University of Colorado. In a 2022 article for Psychology Today, she explained why there is a need to support LGBTQIA+ youth and why banning pride banners and flags does more harm than good.
“They need to feel safe, like they belong, and have positive student-teacher relationships. If these elements aren’t present, students are more likely to struggle academically, skip school, or drop out (Thapa et al, 2013). Teachers understand this and
try to build positive relationships with their students. These stickers and flags are one way to signal support and affirmation for students who often don’t feel seen and respected at home or at school.”
I would argue the same goes for the community.
Woodstock’s Municipal Plan Community Vision statement says, “The Town of Woodstock is a welcoming and safe community providing an enhanced quality of life for all residents.” I’m not sure members of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community would agree.
The banners have already been paid for. They cost nothing to place, as town public works employees have to hang other banners in the downtown regularly. The Pride banners need to return to our lamp posts.
We also need to offer Mayor Trina Jones some grace. She went from a citizen to mayor, and her job isn’t easy. This is her first controversial decision. Council’s job sometimes entails making decisions that aren’t popular but are in the best interests of those who feel they don’t have a voice. I would argue this is one of those times.
My biggest disappointment in watching this story unfold has been the eerie silence from the deputy mayor and other councillors. We don’t know where everyone stands as there has been no public discussion or debate.
“The ultimate tragedy,” Martin Luther King Jr. once said, “is not the oppression and cruelty by the bad people, but the silence over that by the good people.”
We can’t afford to lose any of our youth, no matter their sexual orientation or gender identity. Knowing the statistics and the challenges they face, we all have a moral and legal obligation to support the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. The question remains: do our political leaders have the courage to do the same?
Theresa Blackburn publishes the River Valley Sun and ageless New Brunswick magazine with her husband, Stephen Chisholm. They live and volunteer in Woodstock.
Upholding inclusivity: A small town’s duty to its 2SLGBTQIA+ community
As a gay man growing up in Woodstock, I could not have been more pleased to come home the last few summers to the newly installed Pride banners on town lampposts. I posted about it, shared it, and celebrated it.
The council’s decision to remove the Pride banners from Main Street symbolizes a disregard for the dignity and rights of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. These banners are not mere decorations but representations of acceptance,
inclusivity, and support for a marginalized group of individuals like myself.
Growing up here was hard. Though I succeeded academically and had a great friend group, no one knew the real me – the me that I had to hide as a gay man growing up in a small, conservative town in the 80s and 90s. It was lonely and, at times, unsafe. The mere presence of these banners at that time would have meant an entirely different experience for me. It would have allowed me to
embark on my journey of self-discovery, acceptance, and resilience far sooner than I did.
The previous council’s installation of the Pride banners was not just a source of pride, but a beacon of hope for many like myself, including closeted individuals, struggling teens, and families of 2SLGBTQIA+ members. It conveyed a message of acceptance and solidarity, assuring folks that they are seen, valued, and respected in their own community.
The decision to remove these banners sends a distressing message, not only to 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals but to the broader community. It suggests that our town is willing to turn a blind eye to the struggles and discrimination its residents face. It implies that inclusivity and diversity are not priorities worth upholding.
Moreover, the Mayor’s comments at the April 30 council meeting were hurtful and uneducated. She minimized the importance of the Pride flag and failed
to appreciate that her remarks had a severe, adverse impact on people in her community. Countless people have died and continue to die, and while many of those who govern are born of privilege, they have a heightened duty to represent the interests of those who are marginalized. They must not attempt to erase history nor silence others by acts of prejudice and intolerance.
I implore the council, many of whom I grew up with, to reconsider its deci-
sion and reaffirm my hometown’s commitment to inclusivity and equality for all. Let us not erase the symbols of hope and acceptance that mean so much to so many. Instead, let us embrace diversity, celebrate differences, and continue to foster a community where everyone feels safe, valued, and accepted for who they are.
Onward and upward –never backward.
Gregory B. King Halifax, N.S.
Banner policy needs to be reversed to send message of inclusivity
The news that the Woodstock Council has decided not to display Pride banners this summer has made me sad and disappointed. Let me say that councillors do make mistakes. You are good, hardworking people who have taken on a heavy role in governing our community.
I did it for 20 years and it
isn’t easy.
It’s so important that, as a council, you are both smart and strong enough to recognize when a mistake has been made and find a way to correct it. As a councillor, it’s also important that you all remember the old adage that “actions speak louder than words.”
The new banner policy
has NOT sent a message of inclusivity - no matter how you try to spin it with words. It has done exactly the opposite - and everyone knows it.
Watching Mayor Jones at council address the press and the social media reactions, of which I am one, there is no doubt that the council is very aware
that their actions have not sent an inclusive message.
I just watched the CBC coverage of Mayor Trina Jones “doubling down” on removing the Pride banners from those that will be hung this summer. She was angry and visibly upset. I feel bad for the stress the whole Council must be feeling, but instead of be-
ing angry at members of your community and the press, maybe take a step back. Take some time to meet and speak to the stakeholders. Hang the banners again in the summer of 2024 while everyone works on a solution to what is obviously a problem. Is there a reason to be in such a rush? What
harm can hanging them for another season do? It will cost the Town nothing to hang the banners you already have. Taking the time to talk openly and transparently almost always leads to the best outcome.
Catherine Sutherland Woodstock, N.B.
Agrology awards handed out at NBIA conference
By Theresa Blackburn
T
he New Brunswick In-
stitute of Agrologists celebrated their industry at their annual conference, held in Woodstock on April 26.
The institute has been regulating the profession in New Brunswick since 1960, when the institute was founded.
Agrology is the soil science that deals with crop production.
Cora Hornbrook is relatively new to the industry. She said becoming an agrologist was a natural progression for her.
“I guess when I started at Cavendish (Farms), I kind of saw that all the other people were certified, and I knew that had some weight behind it and like they worked at Cavendish Agri Services for six years in Salisbury. They really encoraged professional development and I took what they would put me through for courses,” she said, noting she is now a professional agrologist and a certified crop advisor.
Hornbrook, who grew up on a dairy farm in Sussex and now farms with her husband, says the networking with her job is one reward — the other is seeing the end product.
“Because it’s an annual thing, it’s not like it takes a really long time to see the benefits of what you’re learning. You can kind of learn from year to year because it’s a kind of blank slate every spring.”
In January, she left Cavendish and began working as the Resilient Agriculture Landscape Program Officer for the New Brunswick Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries.
Hornbrook was this year’s recipient of the Gavin Graham Award. Previously known as the Agricultural Initiative Award, it was renamed for the wellrespected and well-loved agrologist Gavin Graham, who died in September 2022.
The award recognizes agrologists in the early to mid stages of their careers who actively demonstrate professional initiative in their field.
The institute’s Agricultural Leadership Award was presented to Carleton County farmer Matthew Brennan of T.J. Brennan & Sons.
The award officially recognizes “outstanding achievement by a New Brunswick farmer as a leader in the industry.”
Tommy Dixon, who introduced the award at their evening banquet at the Best Western, presented the award.
Brennan was raised on a Bath potato farm and studied at the Nova Scotia Agriculture College and the University of Guelph. He came home to Carleton County in 1984 to farm seed potatoes beside his father, Eugene.
“The name Brennan is synonomous with seed potatoes,” said Dixon. “Like french fries and ketchup, it’s difficult to think of one without the other.”
Brennan serves on multiple boards and represents the shippers’ association on the advisory board to the minister.
“He has the uncanny ability to turn a difficult conversation into one that is fruitful, factual, despite the outcome of the decision,” added Dixon.
In accepting the award,
Brennan said he is grateful that his family took great care of the land before he became its steward.
“TJ was my grandfather. The sons were my father and his two of his brothers. They farmed through the 50s, 60s, and 70s. The challenges that they had on the farm weren’t the same challenges that we have today. They didn’t talk about climate change or wonder if their tractors were going to pick up the GPS signal coming in that day,” he said. “But at the same time, there were other challenge: the agronomy, the plant health, soil health, marketing, and storage. So they had all kinds of challenges they managed well, which allowed me to continue on later, so I am very thankful.”
Other awards presented on the evening included the Agricultural Environmental Stewardship Award given to McCrea Farms in Sussex.
Bruce and Nancy Colpitts own the farm, which started in the 1820s. Their award recognizes their proactive approach to protecting the environment.
They have an environmental farm plan that guides all farm actions related to handling fuel, fertilizer, manure storage, water, wildlife, and fish. They installed solar panels to offset energy use and also produce high-quality forages that minimize tillage.
The Colpitts’ farm is also a tourism destination, and the couple believes this award will be a nice feather in their environmental tourism cap.
The Distinguished Service to New Brunswick Agriculture Award was presented to Dave Bell, P. Ag.
He’s operated Bell Crop
can help with paver stone pads,
walls, garden beds, gravel
soil, stone delivery, excavation & lawn
Services since 200 and provides professional support and technical services to western New Brunswick potato and cash crop producers.
Bell said the job is evolving, and the need for agrologists is growing as farming becomes more and more complicated.
“There’s an awful lot of everything coming at growers,” he said. “They need to be able to step back and say what is right for me and that’s the big part of what I try to do is say, let’s look at it. Let’s try a few new things; keep an open mind.”
Susannah Banks is a certified agrologist for the New Brunswick Federation of Woodlot Owners and the President of the New Brunswick Institute of Agroligists. She says the most significant issue facing her colleagues is keeping up with rapid technological changes.
“It’s really the same issues that farmers face,” said Banks.” We’re trying to give them the best scientific knowledge to help them do they best they can, but with the current pace of new technology and new information, the challenge is keeping up to date.”
Banks says education is critical.
“It’s a real challenge to to educate people. Anything to do with it with a biological system or a natural resource and growing things is extremely complicated. There’ no simple, easy answer. People will say, what about this? Well, it’s not that simple. There’s not a lot of black and white. We really need to start bridging those (education) gaps, because people should trust the science.“
From left, Luella Graham and children Wilton, Lennox, and Vesta with Gavin Graham Award recipient Cora Hornbrook, and NBIA president Susannah Banks. (T. Blackburn photo)
Nancy and Bruce Colpitts of McCrea Farms receive the Agricultural Environmental Stewardship Award from NBIA President. Susannah Banks. (T. Blackburn photo)
Matthew Brennan (left) with Tommy Dixon who nominated Brennan for the Agricultural Leadership Award. (Theresa Blackburn photo)
Agrologist Dave Bell accepts the Distinguished Service to New Brunswick Agriculture Award from association member Peter Scott. (Theresa Blackburn photo)
SUNNY-SIDE UP
Providing Readers with a Challenge, a Chuckle, and a Smile
Graduation
VALEDICTORIAN SCHOLARSHIP COMPLETION
SENIOR SOCIAL
Wednesday, May 22
2 to 4 p.m. in the Gallery Room
CLASSMATES SENIORS HONOURS SUCCESS
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Featuring Bounce Back Cost: $5 per person. Light refreshments. Limited seating. Purchase tickets in advance by calling (506) 325-4302 or email ayrmotocentre@town.woodstock.nb.ca
INTRO TO SENIOR BOXING FITNESS CLASSES
Mondays 4 to 5 p.m. June 3 - June 29
$35 for 8 weeks or Drop-in for $5
WOMEN’S BOXING FITNESS
Saturdays - 8:30 to 10 a.m. All Fitness Levels Welcome! $8/Drop-in; $65/Punch Card – Try it for Free!
COED BOXING FITNESS (Basics & Workout Format)
6:30 to 8 p.m. - 16+ years Tuesdays 6:30-8 p.m. - 10+ years
COMPETITIVE TRAINING Wednesdays and Fridays 6 to 8 p.m. and
After-School Youth Golf
Mondays from May 27 to June 17
At Woodstock Golf & Curling Club
For students ages 9 years and up
Cost: $60 Scan QR code to register
Did you KNOW?
•Canada has the largest share of college and university graduates in all of the G7 countries.
• Statistics Canada data from 2021 notes that 57.5 per cent of Canadians held a college or university degree.
•In 2022, 6,717 high school students walked across graduation stages in New Brunswick.
• The first diplomas were originally made out of sheepskin.
• The graduation cap originated with headgear worn by church dignitaries in the 16th century.
•In the 1300s, scholars and clerics at European universities would wear long robes to stay warm during ceremonies in largely unheated buildings. The robes and gowns were eventually recognized as ‘official’ attire.
RVS TONGUE TWISTER
One-one was a race horse. Two-two was one, too. One-one won one race. Two-two won one too.
CARLETON COUNTY
Colloquialisms
By John Morris
‘magine\’madj-en\ verb - Abbreviated form of “imagine.” Often delivered with an ironic inflection, equivalent in meaning to “I should think not” or “no way, José”; “Like she’d expect I’d go t’ the Legion on a Mundee night - ‘Magine!”
Hear this word pronounced at www.dooryard.ca.
Tennis After-School Program
Every Tuesday for 5 weeks starting May 28 at McKinley Tennis Courts 3:30-5:00 p.m. for ages 7-11 Cost: $65 Register in advance at AYR Motor Centre or scan this QR code to register now!
SWIMS: Sat & Sun 1:30 to 3 p.m. WATER WALK-INS: Thurs 1 - 3 p.m.
ACTIVE ADULTS
you
NEIGHBOURHOOD NEWS
Puddle Jumpers Play Group
The play group, for ages 1 to 4, is held on Wednesdays from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Perth-Andover Wesleyan Church at 177 W. Riverside Drive. Join the fun for snacks, story time, crafts, and free play. For more information call (506) 273-6561.
Cemetery AGM
The Andover Presbyterian Rural Cemetery will hold their Annual General Meeting on May 21 at 7 p.m. at Saint James United Church Hall in Perth-Andover. For more information, email APRCemetery@gmail. com.
Juniper Breakfasts
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the Juniper Community Centre, 8 to 11 a.m. every Saturday! The Community Closet new-toyou store is open Saturday mornings and Wednesdays from 12 to 3 p.m., as well as by appointment. Contact us at 506-4253085 for up to date information on our monthly jamborees and other events, or to book catering. Check us out on Facebook or on our new website: Junipercc.ca. Please note, we are supporting a Juniper Fire Department fundraiser breakfast on Saturday, May 18, so join us at the fire hall that day only!
Joyce Tompkins Memorial Fishing Derby
Teams of two will fish Williamstown Lake aiming to snag the biggest pickerel within six hours on Saturday, May 25. Registration starts at 7 a.m. at the Lakeville Community Centre, 2141 Route 560, with weigh-in happening at 1 p.m. sharp! Entrance fee is $50 per team of two, and includes coffee, muffins, and snacks at 7 a.m. BYOB - Bring Your Own Boat. Fishing from shore is allowed. Children can participate when accompanied by an adult. There will also be a fundraising BBQ lunch from 12 to 2 p.m. All proceeds go toward the upkeep of the community centre and future events.
Community Yard Sale
Apply to be a part of the District of Carleton North Community Yard Sale on May 18, 19 and 20. Registration fee is $5. Yard Sales begin at 8 a.m. Pick up or drop off you registration forms at the town office (19 Station Road, Florenceville) or the Bath office (161 School Street, Bath) or the Centreville office (368 Central Street, Centreville). For more info, email jeremy.hansma@carletonnorth.com.
Check Facebook for rec events
Carleton North residents can stay informed about recreation activities by checking out the department’s Facebook page or calling 506-392-6763 ext. 220. The Drop-In
Schedule will be posted at the beginning of each week.
Senior Social
The Northern Carleton Rec Centre hosts a Senior Social in its community room on Wednesdays from 1 to 4 p.m. for $3 each. We hope to see you there!
Annual Plant Auction Fundraiser
The Florenceville-Bristol Garden Club is hosting a plant auction on Monday, June 3 (with a rain/weather date of June 10) from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Riverside Park Gazebo. Bring along your divided plants (annuals, perennials, house plants), extra seedlings, garden art and pots to be auctioned off. Please label plants, and provide as much information as possible, including planting info. NO INVASIVE PLANTS. Bring a lawn chairs and bug spray. For more info, contact Michelle at mcorcoranRD@gmail.com
Grand Opening of Recreation Centre
District of Carleton North is hosting the Grand Opening of the new Recreation Centre on Saturday June 8, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event is open to the public and will feature: Grand Opening speeches, Facility Tour, Sponsorship Wall unveiling, Alumni Basketball Game, Kinsmen BBQ, and free use of the facility.
Summer Day Camps
The District of Carleton North Recreation Summer Day Camps are starting July 2 and go until August 30. If you are interested in reserving a spot for your child, please contact: ashston.chamberland@carletonnorth.com or (506) 392-6763 ext. 202.
New Tourism Facebook Page
Stay tuned to the Explore District of Carleton North Facebook page for Canada Day events, Summer Drive-ins, and Potato World Opening!
Congratulations to CNHS 2024 Grads!
The District of Carleton North would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication Carleton North graduates have put into their 2023-24 school year. Best of luck with wherever your dreams take you!
Town Council Meetings
The District of Carleton North council meets the 2nd & 4th Tuesday of the month. The public is welcome to attend. The meetings are also live streamed on our YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@districtofcarletonnorth/featured.
Summer jobs in Hartland
The municipality is looking to employ some students for the summer months. There is a need for pool lifeguards, Fun Park coordinators, general labourers, and an Informa-
tion Centre Tourism Coordinator. Please check the website for links on how to apply - www.townofhartland.ca/p/job-postings
Big Garbage Pickups
The dates for the municipality of Hartland are May 21 and 23, at the same time as your regular garbage collection schedule.
Bleacher Seat Plaques
Only 300 Bleacher Seat Plaques for the new Central Carleton Community Complex will be available at $250 each. Plaques can be sponsored by a person or family, in memory of someone special, or for any alumni who want their jersey number commemorated. Visit https://friendsofhartland. ca/seat-plaques to order yours!
Hartland Council Meetings
The public is welcome to attend Regular Council Meetings that occur the 2nd Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Hartland Town Hall at 31 Orser Street. Committee of the Whole meetings are the 4th Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m., where Council reviews topics that require more discussion so they are ready to make decisions at the Regular Council Meetings. The public is welcome to attend the Committee of the Whole meetings as well.
Notification System
Sign up for Hartland’s Notification System to receive emails, voice messages or text messages of announcements or events. Visit the Latest Notices section on the home page to sign up, or call 506-375-4357 ext. 211 to give your details to someone to enter on your behalf. www.townofhartland.ca
Voices for Hayward House
Join us on Sunday, May 26 at 1:30 p.m. at St. Gertrude’s Church at 111 St. Gertrude Street, Woodstock for an event to highlight Mental Health Awareness Month. Mark and Jenn Nicholson from Pure Country be our hosts. Proceeds go to the Hayward House Travel Group. Entry is by donation. The event will feature Mackenzie Stone, Maggie Jones, Layney Ross, Lise-Anne Grant from Beauty and the Beats, the Hayward House Singers, and the Woodstock High School Choir. There will also be poetry and inspiring testimonials.
Community Yard Sale in Fosterville
On Saturday, May 18 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Community Hall in Fosterville, 4426 Route 122. The event is sponsored by the North Lake Recreation Council.
Spring High Tea
The North Lake Recreation Council is hosting Spring High Tea on Saturday, May 25
Are you putting your returnables in your curbside recycling bin?
Donate them to local Breakfast Programs through VAIL’S BOTTLE EXCHANGE IN WOODSTOCK!
Vail’s will donate the proceeds to local breakfast programs! Just tell them where you want your returnables refund to go when you drop them off!
at 1 p.m. Cost is by donation. Space is limited so RSVP by phoning 506-392-6284 or email northlakers2022@gmail.com by May 18.
Benefit Breakfast
There is a benefit breakfast for Leigh and Irene Williams on May 25 from 7:30-10:30 a.m. at the Richmond Corner Rec Centre, 830 Route 555, Richmond Corner. Donations will be greatly appreciated to help Irene and Leigh with travel and medical expenses.
Community Information Session
On May 15 at 6:30 p.m., the Debec Women’s Institute Hall, the Debec Women’s Institute will host an information session on how to prepare wills and learn about power of attorney. This is a free workshop with Kyle Davenport, a lawyer with Langdon Law. Everyone welcome!
Spring Tea
You are invited to the Nackawic Area AgeFriendly Spring Tea on Wednesday, May 22 at noon at the Nackawic Lions Club. Entry is by donation and all are welcome!
Standard First Aid/CPR/AED Level C
There are 18 seats available for this course, taking place at the Nackawic Fire Hall on May 25 & 26 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. Please register by May 23. Cost of the course is $130 per person. Contact Judy Moorcroft at (506) 575-5134 and jmoorcroft@xplornet.com
Slow Cooker Day
On Tuesday, May 28 at 9:30 a.m. the Nackawic and Area Wellness Committee is hosting it’s last cooking class until September at the Lions Centre. They’ll be making slow cooker beans. Register by May 21. Cost if $5. Please bring two sealable containers. Email nackawicareawellness@ gmail.com.There is limited seating for this, so be sure to pre-register!
Woodstock
Nackawic-Millville
RVS SUNSHINE KID
Meet 11-month-old Stevie-Grace Walton, daughter of Courtney and Damion Walton. As you can imagine, she was the best Father’s Day gift last year! “Little Stephen” loves to move in her jumper and play with her two older siblings, Emma and Emry. She has a strong dislike for the car, unless mom is singing loudly and being silly to make her laugh. Her mama says this little one’s eyebrows make her day, every day! We can certainly see why!
If you would like your child featured as the RVS Sunshine Kid, please send a photo and some information to the email listed below.
Submit your sunshine kid or kids photos to theresa@rivervalleysun.ca
“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.
2024 SPECIAL GARBAGE COLLECTION SCHEDULE
MUNICIPALITY OF CARLETON NORTH
MAY 27TH - All roads listed on a Mon. collection.
MAY 29TH - All roads listed on a Wed. collection.
MAY 30TH - All roads listed on a Thurs. collection.
MAY 31ST - All roads listed on a Fri. collection.
OCT 28TH - All roads listed on a Mon. collection.
OCT 30TH - All roads listed on a Wed. collection.
OCT 31ST - All roads listed on a Thurs. collection.
NOV 1ST - All roads listed on a Fri. collection.
MUNICIPALITY OF HARTLAND
MAY 21ST - All roads listed on a Tues. collection.
MAY 23RD - All roads listed on a Thurs. collection.
OCT 22ND - All roads listed on a Tues. collection.
OCT 24 TH - All roads listed on a Thurs. collection.
MUNICIPALITY OF WOODSTOCK
MAY 14TH - All roads listed on a Tues. collection.
MAY 15TH - All roads listed on a Wed. collection.
MAY 17TH - All roads listed on a Fri. collection.
OCT 15TH - All roads listed on a Tues. collection.
OCT 16TH - All roads listed on a Wed. collection.
OCT 18TH - All roads listed on a Fri. collection.
MUNICIPALITY OF LAKELAND RIDGES
JUN 3RD - All roads listed on a Mon. collection.
OCT 21ST - All roads listed on a Mon. collection.
MUNICIPALITY
OF SOUTHERN VICTORIA
JAN 19TH VILLAGE OF AROOSTOOK -
All roads listed on a Fri. collection.
MAY 17TH VILLAGE OF AROOSTOOK -
All roads listed on a Fri. collection.
SEPT 20TH VILLAGE OF AROOSTOOK -
All roads listed on a Fri. collection.
JUN 5TH, AUG 7TH & OCT 23RD.
LSD PERTH - All roads listed on a Wed. waste collection.
JUN 6TH, AUG 8TH & OCT 24TH.
LSD ANDOVER - All roads listed on a Thurs. waste collection.
GENERAL GUIDELINES
1. Everything possible must be boxed, bagged, tied, or bundled to aid collection crews.
2. Max of 3 large items per household (plus regular garbage).
3. Residential construction/demolition waste is no longer collected in Carleton County municipalities, or in Victoria County municipalities.
4. Tree cuttings must not exceed 4 ft. or weigh over 50 lbs, securely tied in bundles, branches 2” diameter or less.
5. No liquid wastes of any kind (paint, solvents).
6. No motor vehicle parts.
7. No propane tanks, other dangerous or toxic waste or tires of any kind.
MUNICIPALITY OF TOBIQUE VALLEY
MAY 16TH VILLAGE OF PLASTER ROCK -
All roads listed on a Thurs. waste collection.
AUG 15TH VILLAGE OF PLASTER ROCK -
All roads listed on a Thurs. waste collection.
OCT 24TH VILLAGE OF PLASTER ROCK -
All roads listed on a Thurs. waste collection.
MAY 16TH LSD LORNE/ RILEY BROOK -
All roads listed on a Thurs. waste collection.
AUG 15TH LSD LORNE/ RILEY BROOK -
All roads listed on a Thurs. waste collection.
OCT 24TH LSD LORNE/ RILEY BROOK
All roads listed on a Thurs. waste collection.
MAY 16TH LSD GORDON -
All roads listed on a Thurs. waste collection.
AUG 15TH LSD GORDON -
All roads listed on a Thurs. waste collection.
OCT 24TH LSD GORDON -
All roads listed on a Thurs. waste collection.
WESTERN VALLEY RURAL DISTRICT
JUN 3RD LSD NEW DENMARK -
All roads listed on a Mon. waste collection.
JUN 5TH LSD PERTH/ANDOVER
All roads listed on a Wed. waste collection.
AUG 5TH LSD NEW DENMARK
All roads listed on a Mon. waste collection.
AUG 7TH LSD PERTH/ANDOVER -
All roads listed on a Wed. waste collection.
OCT 21ST LSD NEW DENMARK -
All roads listed on a Monday waste collection.
OCT 23RD LSD PERTH/ANDOVER -
All roads listed on a Wed. waste collection.
ALL OTHER AREAS
If your LSD or Town/Village is not listed above, you do not have a designated special garbage collection day. Contact your municipality or contractor for further information. This schedule reflects new municipal boundaries. *All special garbage collections happen on the day you normally receive garbage collections.
COLLECTIONS DONE BY KEARNEY'S/JS BELLIS in the Municipalities of Carleton North, Woodstock, Hartland & Lakeland Ridges (506) 328-6139
NORTH WEST SANITATION in the Municipalities of Tobique Valley, Western Valley Rural District, Tobique First Nation and the Village of Aroostook (506) 473-5937 FOR GENERAL INFORMATION CALL: (506) 276-3610 X 201 and for more information RSC12.CA
8. No appliances containing coolant (fridge, freezer, air conditioner, water cooler, dehumidifier) – call us for details (506) 276-3610 x201
Tires, Oil/Glycol, Batteries, Paint, Electronics, Tires, Paper and Packaging, Beverage containers & Pharmaceutical products & medical sharps can be recycled all year. Please see RecycleNB - Home for further details.
Woodstock faces ‘emergency level situation’ with water supply
Grafton well unusable, only one working well at marina, as town faces vital decisions
By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Almost a decade after identifying the need to secure a second well site to guard against a potential loss of water supply, Woodstock sits in a more precarious position than ever.
During the long-awaited water update at the April 16 council session, Mayor Trina Jones delivered a stark analysis of the town’s water supply concerns.
“It has been about a year since our council became aware of the issues with the new Grafton Wellhouse project and that it was deemed by Dillon Consulting to be usable only as a short-term temporary backup well in its current state,” said Jones.
However, based on information provided by two consulting firms, the mayor questioned the ability to use the approximately $4 million Grafton well, even as a temporary backup.
Jones outlined the factors leading to the staff and council’s decision to declare the Grafton well unusable, with water quality topping the list.
While testing reveals the Grafton well’s water generally meets New Brunswick health standards for potable water, it falls short of the aesthetic quality that Woodstock residents would demand.
Jones said the water tested high in manganese, TDS (total dissolved solids) and chloride.
She added that the water’s dramatically different chemical makeup between the two sources makes blending them into a single distribution system almost impossible. Using the Grafton well would require abandoning the existing well near the Marina.
Adding to the town’s water dilemma, Jones explained the town’s existing water source, consisting of two wells and pumps in a single wellhouse, is permanently limited to a single well.
“Unfortunately, I have some additional news to share with everyone tonight regarding our River wellhouse that we currently depend on and the issues we are facing with it requires all time and resources at the moment,” Jones said.
She explained that town crews attempted to repair a malfunctioning pump at one of the two wells at the River well but failed be-
“As there was no water treatment facility built as part of this system and due to the inability to easily or cost effectively build a treatment system at the location today, it leaves us with water quality issues and a distribution system that doesn’t make it feasible to use,” she said.
cause of an almost 100 per cent blocked screen. Unblocking the screen would require shutting down the other well and disrupting all water flow to the town.
Guided by the consultants, town crews are attempting to create a second well outside the wellhouse. They located previous test wells, which unfortunately cannot be used.
CAO Allan Walker explained that the engineering consulting firm Boissonnault McGraw will lead the search for a second water source. The firm, one of three to respond to the town’s request for proposals (RFP), was hired on Feb. 20.
They will also oversee the rebuild or refurbishment of the Eastwood Heights water reservoir and develop a five-year priority action plan following a complete utility asset review.
“Obviously, their first priority right now is locating and bringing online a secondary water source,” Walker said.
During the CAO update at the April 30 council meeting, Walker said Boissonnault McGraw, working with Gemtech, submitted a proposal for the location, drilling and development of a third well at the River Well site.
Walker explained the proposal includes ground
preparation, drilling and construction of an observation well, and the drilling and construction of a production well,
Council approved funding for the estimated $665,000 cost of the project. Walker explained that estimate doesn’t include the costs surrounding the infrastructure to tie it into our water treatment and distribution systems.
“This project will proceed as quickly as possible,” Walker said, estimating the project would take 20 weeks from the awarding of the contract.
While the project could require pausing production from the existing well, Walker said crews will manage the project to minimize risk and disruption.
While the current picture
Woodstock Mayor Trina Jones said town crews attempted to repair a malfunctioning pump at one of the two wells at the River well but failed because of an almost 100 per cent blocked screen. Unblocking the screen would require shutting down the other well and disrupting all water flow to the town. (Stephen Chisholm photo)
looks bad at the Grafton well, Jones said the town hasn’t completely given up. She said testing will continue over a long period to determine if quality improves or declines.
“Given the large investment of over 4 million, in the end we are prepared to exhaust all options before we ever make the decision
to abandon the Grafton well but any further investigations will take significant time,” the mayor said.
Following the meeting, Jones confirmed that the council is considering its legal options regarding the Grafton well dilemma.
“We may have something to announce on that, shortly,” she said.
Woodstock Composite High School
50th Anniversary Reunion Graduating Class of 1971
16
We are planning an afternoon/evening event and casual barbecue for Monday, Sept. 16, 2024, in Woodstock. More details will be provided when we directly contact classmates. Those attending will be expected to purchase their own drinks. We don’t want to interfere with other grad class reunions, and we would welcome interested folks from the WCHS classes of ’70 and ’72. If they plan to join us, ,they should let us know as soon as possible. We’re asking each person attending to donate $30 to help cover rental, food and other costs. Any excess money will be donated to a WHS scholarship fund. We need to know how many will attend, so please respond when you receive a personal e-mail or phone call, or email Class President Sandy Briggs at briggsag@xplornet.ca We look forward to celebrating this milestone with you!
MRA celebrates conservation, education, and preservation
Successful Meduxnekeag River Association dinner showcases 25 years of success
By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The sold-out 2024
Meduxnekeag River Association Dinner and Auction reflects a quarter century of community devotion to the conservation, preservation and education of the valley’s rare and historic old-growth forests.
“The support’s great,” said MRA president Stephen Wilson. “It’s a little local platoon that serves a significant niche in the area.”
MRA board members, supporters, community, business and political leaders jammed the Knights of Columbus Hall in Woodstock on Saturday evening, April 20, to raise money at the annual event.
Wilson said the association’s seeds were planted almost 30 years ago, but the Meduxnekeag River Association was incorporated in 1998.
An oil painting by St. John River Valley landscape artist Jean Richard, one of the event’s 14 live auction items, depicted the natural beauty of Wilson Mountain, MRA’s first significant land purchase in 1998.
Wilson explained the purchase of Wilson
Mountain preserved two kilometres of shoreline with about 103 acres of property otherwise destined for clearcutting or subdivision.
Under the attentive stewardship of the same family for a couple of hundred years, Wilson explained, the primarily forested parcel of land remained in beautiful shape, showcasing the old-growth Appalachian hardwood native to the Meduxnekeag Valley.
“As reflected in that painting that sold, it is possibly one of the most aesthetically pleasant properties,” he added.
The evening’s MC — Simon Mitchell, World Wildlife Federation - Canada vice president, in charge of Resilient Habitats — expressed excitement, but not surprise, to welcome another sold-out MRA dinner and auction.
Mitchell, who has a long history with the MRA, described it as particularly exciting to welcome another packed event on the 25th anniversary of the association’s first preserve purchase. He noted that without COVID, it would have also been the 25th
anniversary of the dinner and auction.
Wilson and Mitchell both noted the Carleton County community’s wide connection to the Meduxnekeag Preserve, noting the many trails that allow everyone to enjoy the natural beauty.
Wilson explained that the MRA wants to share the preserve with the public and that the trails help share the biodiversity that the MRA strives to protect.
Mitchell explained residents in Woodstock and outlying communities have a multi-generation connection with “the creek,” as the Meduxnekeag is known to longtime residents.
“This is where they were kids, where they brought their kids and now grandkids,” he said.
While COVID limited access to many things, including the MRA Dinner and Auction, Mitchell said the preserve allowed individuals and families to reconnect or connect for the first time with nature.
“Today, we’re seeing community members and business owners and others out supporting the organization and helping them to protect what is
such a unique and wonderful place,” he said.
Wilson said the widespread public support for the MRA’s efforts provides essential benefits in the distant future.
“It’s local, it’s tangible and it’s in perpetuity,” he said. “It’s perpetual so hopefully a thousand years from now this little thing which seems insignificant now but as the planet is evolving it becomes more important.”
Mitchell paid tribute to the MRA board, staff and volunteers. He also praised their efforts to introduce children to nature and educate them about its direct impact on their lives.
He said more than 3,000 students visited the preserve last year. In addition to the schools’ efforts, he said children could join a children’s nature club as part of a project driven by MRA’s Outreach and Marketing Coordinator, Holly Melanson.
Mitchell also pointed out that many of the students who enjoyed the school visits to the preserve became essential members of the MRA team as they grew.
“Over 100 summer stu-
dents worked with us over the years,” he said.
Since its acquisition of Wilson Mountain, the award-winning Meduxnekeag Nature Preserve has grown tenfold.
The community-supported land trust and education organization now protects 1,100 acres of Appalachian hardwood forests.
Mitchell said the community’s residents, artisans, businesspeople and others made that possible.
“They have just been such a huge supporter of the organization,” Mitchell said. “And we truly are unique in New Brunswick, and I would argue across Canada, really.”
After a dinner featuring
salmon and chicken, event attendees generously bid on the live auction items, with businessman and former Woodstock Mayor Jeff Wright serving as auctioneer.
Board member Catherine Sutherland said area businesses generously donate auction items yearly, and people quickly snap up available tickets.
While New Brunswick’s woodlands play a central role in the province’s economy, it is vitally important to protect old-growth forests.
“We need industry. We need the economy, but life is about balance,” said Wilson. “I mean, what would New York be without Central Park.”
MRA President Stephen Wilson with a handmade cigar box guitar donated by Ken Nichols, with auctioneer Jeff Wright taking bids. (Jim Dumville photo)
Obituaries, Memorials & Announcements
David Wilson 1933 – 2024
David Harry Wilson of Grafton, N.B., passed away on Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at the age of 69.
David was the son of the late Harry Wilson (Merle) and Lillian Wilson.
David is survived by his wife, Brigitte (Ouellet), his son Justin Wilson (Sarah), his three daughters, Nancy Jewett (Kory), Sylvie Mclaughlin (Marty),
Julie Dickison (Lee), and his nine grandchildren: Haven, Matthew, Luke, Alyson, Trey, Tyler, Kylie, Chance, and Finn, as well as a brother Brian Wilson, several sisters in-law and brothers in-law, and nieces and nephews, as well as many close friends and his beloved dog, Bella.
Besides his parents, David was predeceased
by his, father-in-law Roland Ouellet (Lucie).
David’s funeral was under the direction of Scott Funeral Home, 815 Main Street, Woodstock, N.B.
Visitation was held on Thursday, May 2, 2024. from 2-4 & 7-9 p.m. at the Scott Funeral Home.
The Memorial Funeral Service was held on Fri-
day, May 3, 2024. at 2 p.m. from the Scott Funeral Home Chapel. Rev Dale Macdonald officiated.
A reception followed at the Woodstock Golf & Curling Club.
If desired, donations may be made to Rive Valley Cancer Support Group or the Carleton County Animal Shelter.
Northern Carleton Civic Centre closes rock-climbing wall District of Carleton North said action related to safety recall from supplier
By Sandra Hanson
Only months after opening, the rockclimbing wall at the Northern Carleton Civic Centre has been closed indefinitely due to a safety recall.
A post shared on the District of Carleton North Recreation Facebook page on Thursday, May 9, informed residents
that “effective immediately, all rock-climbing wall activities at the NCRC are canceled indefinitely” due to an equipment safety recall.
The post noted that the bouldering wall remains unaffected by the recall and that operations will continue as normal.
Responding to questions about the recall, Recreation Manager Jill Whitehouse assured residents that the District of Carleton North had no injuries at its rock-climbing wall.
She explained that the district is complying with a safety recall notice it received from
the company that sold the Onits auto belay devices.
Whitehouse explained the devices are “being removed and shipped back to the manufacturer for repairs.”
The District of Carleton North Recreation said it will provide further updates on its
Facebook page over the coming days.
The River Valley Sun has contacted the department for comment and is awaiting a reply.
Right: NCCC Recreation Manager Jill Whitehouse in front of the now-closed rock climbing wall. (Sandra Hanson photo)
Florenceville Rotary helping feed Carleton North students Dinner and
dance event raises $20,000 for six local schools’ backpack and food programs
By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Florenceville Rotary Club celebrated the success of its “Help Feed Our Student” dinner and dance on April 20.
“Thanks to amazing community support, Florenceville Rotary will donate $20,000 to ‘We’ve Got Your Back River Valley’ weekend backpack program and school food programs in the six District of Carleton North schools,” said Rotarian Lorena Green.
She said Rotary Club President Barb O’Donnell welcomed 200 people to the Knights of Columbus Hall in Bath to enjoy a chicken dinner followed
by dancing to the music of John Maunder and the Common People.
In her welcome to guests, O’Donnell pointed out the table centrepieces, which showcased a sample of the food items included in the weekend backpacks of food sent home with students experiencing food insecurity.
Green explained that the “We’ve Got Your Back River Valley” program, under the auspices of True North Baptist Church, has supported local students since 2014.
“At the current cost of $2,000 per week, approximately 90 backpacks are
being packed, delivered to the six DCN schools and taken home by students during the 38 weeks of the school year,” Green explained.
She said the schools also offer food programs during the school day to ensure that all students have access to nutritious food.
Green explained community volunteers and financial support make the programs possible.
“Florenceville Rotarians are pleased to be able to offer financial support, pack backpacks monthly and volunteer in school food programs,” she said.
Green said the We Got Your Back River Valley program remains in need and always appreciates support for the food security programs.
“Florenceville Rotarians wish to thank all that made the $20,000 donation possible,” said Green.
She cited the contributions of Charles and Peggy MacDonald and their team, who prepared the dinner, and the donations from Hartland AgroMart, Brennan Farms, Crabbe Lumber, Marks the Spot, Bobbi’s Convenience, and All Aboard Convenience to cover the costs.
Green also expressed
(Submitted photo)
the Rotary Club’s appreciation for the support from the Knights of Columbus, True North Baptist Church, the District of Carleton North,
and the many community members who bought tickets or made donations.
“This was truly a community event,” she said.
TREAT-BAR SATURDAY! Bring your pets in on May 25 & let them “belly up” to our bar to choose a treat!
Table centrepieces provided an example of the items included in the weekend backpacks to address food insecurity within the Carleton North school district.
Local sugar artist named ‘Canada’s Rising Star’ Carlow’s Heather Salmon-Caines is winning awards and earning international fame
By Sandra Hanson
When most people think of art, they don’t immediately think of cookies and cakes.
However, Carlow resident Heather SalmonCaines is one of a small number of artists who are channelling their creative energy into working with an unusual medium – sugar.
These artists even work under the title of “Sugar Artist,” and Caines has been making a name for herself in the world of sugar artistry. Approximately six years ago, Salmon-Caines left her job as a cleaner and decided to pursue baking, which had always
been one of her hobbies. It wasn’t long before she moved past just doing custom orders for cakes and cookies and started exploring what she could create with sugar.
An artist at heart who studied graphic design in school, Salmon-Caines enjoyed the challenge of working with a new medium.
“There are not many sugar artists; it’s a medium that people are afraid to use,” explained Caines.
Soon, Caines began attending sugar shows across North America, which she described as “volunteering for a really long weekend of hard work,” which allowed her
to make industry connections.
However, the hard work paid off, and her career exploded. In the last year, she has been featured as a sugar artist in six different magazines, has been on two Food Network shows, and has won four different competition awards, including the Icing Images Award at the SIMI Sugar Splash Virtual Art Competition and the SIMI Isomalt Awards at Candy Expo.
She also took third place at the prestigious Julia Usher Competition at Takes the Cake and, most recently, won the Canada’s Rising Star award at the American Cake Awards.
Salmon-Caines admits
that winning the award was monumental for her.
“When I became a finalist, I was shocked because there were so many other big names there,” she said, continuing to say that she was even more surprised when she won.
“That award has never come to Atlantic Canada before,” she said.
Salmon-Caines said that she hopes that by winning the award, she can be a trailblazer for other people in Atlantic Canada, an area she feels has a lot of overlooked talent.
“I want people to realize they can do this - you can put yourself out there and do crazy things and succeed.”
Local youth represents Special Olympics N.B in fundraiser
Floyd Atherton visits local Sobeys as province’s Athlete of the Year for Sobeys Empire campaign
By Jim Dumville - Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The large free-standing banner featuring his lifesized photo didn’t faze little Floyd Atherton when he visited Sobeys in Woodstock on Monday, April 29. As Special Olympics Canada’s Special Olympic Athlete for New Brunswick, Floyd, his mother Emily and several other family members visited the supermarket to promote the 2024 Sobeys Empire Campaign.
Emily, a Woodstock resident, said Floyd joined the Special Olympics as a
three-year-old, starting in its Fundamentals program. The program, open to children aged two to 12 with intellectual and developmental disabilities, teaches coordination, provides opportunities to be active and offers social interaction with others.
Emily said the Special Olympics have become a big part of their lives.
“As a parent, I too have benefited from the support and interaction with athletes, parents, caregivers,
and volunteers who give us unconditional understanding and a sense of belonging,” Emily explained in a social media post.
Floyd is the poster boy for the national fundraising campaign at all Empire Brand stores across Canada. Those stores include Sobeys, Safeway, IGA West, Foodland, participating Co-Ops (including Florenceville-Bristol), Thrifty Foods, Lawtons Drugs, and Needs convenience stores across Can-
ada. Shoppers can donate $2 to Special Olympic programs each time they pass through the checkout until May 5.
Empire Company Limited (Sobeys Inc.) banner stores will match donations as they strive to raise $1 million for Special Olympics athletes.
Woodstock Sobeys manager Dave Wilson welcomed Floyd, Emily, family members and Special Olympics officials to the store on Monday.
Wilson said he and his staff are proud to participate in the campaign, noting the strong Western Valley Region Special Olympic program that serves families throughout the Upper Valley.
He said the store personnel, with generous corporate support, enjoy being a viable part of the community. For the complete story, and to see more photos, visit rivervalleysun.ca.
Sugar artist Heather Salmon-Caines of Carlow was the winner of “Canada’s Rising Star” award at the American Cake Awards. (Submitted)
Floyd Atherton and his mother, Emily, with his image on the poster at Sobeys in Woodstock. (Jim Dumville photo)
Hartland Legion to host Dominion 8-Ball Championship
Pool shooters from across Canada will arrive in Covered Bridge community
By Jim Dumville - Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
T
he Covered Bridge Community will welcome top pool shooters across Canada this month as the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 24 hosts the Dominion 8 Ball Championships.
Event co-chair Carla Orser said plans are proceeding well as the branch prepares for the national tournament on May 24, 25 and 26.
She said the tournament will feature two teams from New Brunswick, plus representatives from Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia; Ontario, Manitoba/ North West Ontario, Saskatchewan, Alberta/North West Territories and British Columbia.
Orser said the branch will welcome 40 players and three Royal Canadian Legion Dominion Command representatives.
Orser, who is co-chairing the event with Bobby Allison, said the tournament’s opening ceremonies will begin Friday, May 24 at 7 p.m.
The Hartland Legion originally applied to host the Dominion 8-Ball Championship five years ago. Orser said the branch found out it would host the 2024 event last year. The Legion executive and members began preparations last November.
Hartland Branch President Gary Bovard said members are excited to host the national event.
Hartland Mayor Tracey DeMerchant praised Legion members for bringing this tournament to the town and the branch’s ongoing support
She said the visitors will stay at the Best Western Woodstock, with the branch arranging daily transportation back and forth to the Hartland Legion.
of the community.
New Brunswick will have two teams vying for the Dominion title, with the provincial title holders from Fredection and the host squad from Hartland.
The host squad features the twosomes of Cecil Rideout and Allan Tompkins and Harold Buckingham and Byron Foster.
The New Brunswick champions include Floyd Paul and Plemon Mercer, William Wall and William Doherty.
The remaining teams are as follows:
Newfoundland and Labrador — Robert Hall and Dwayne Broomfield, Carl Ringer and David Locke
Prince Edward Island — Edward Arsenault and Stewart Perry, Yvon Arsenault and Rick Gallant
Nova Scotia — Bob Massia and Christopher Marsh, Bruce Lilly and Harry O’Donnell
Ontario — Mark Johnston and Darryl Doolittle, Brandon Raddatz and Colton Keuhl
Manitoba/North West Ontario — Marvin Quiamnao and Andrew Spence,
Richard Urbanik and Rich Hutcheon
Saskatchewan — Richard Lee and Wayne Westbury, Ikrma Zanidean and Dennis Klyne
Alberta/North West Territories — Terry
Levesque and Henry Stekelenburg, Sean Bateman and Daniel Davidson
British Columbia/Yukon — Curtis Beech and William Unwin, Murray Beech and Craig Walters.
The Royal Canadian Legion Branch 24 in Hartland is preparing to host the Dominion 8-Ball Championships on May 24, 25 and 26. From left, Branch president Gary Bovard, tournament co-chair Carla Orser, Hartland Mayor Tracey DeMerchant and tournament co-chair Bobby Allison. (Jim Dumville photo)
Woodstock Council briefs Changes
By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Significant residential projects in limbo
Woodstock’s hope to see former school and church sites turned into large residential complexes faces roadblocks.
After the council recently cancelled an agreement with a developer to build a six-story 75-unit apartment complex on the former Woodstock Baptist Church site, it announced changes in plans to convert the former Woodstock Middle School into apartment units.
During the April 16 council-in-committee meeting, Planning and Development Director Andrew Garnett explained the development partnership originally interested the school property no longer exists.
Garnett said one of the partners, Emmett Group, now owns the property, adding a new partner expressed interest in the project.
He explained that the conditions initially approved by the council in January 2023 remain in place to protect the green
space and surrounding properties.
The conditions require the developer to submit and gain council approval for its landscaping plan and forbid motorized access from Orange Street.
The original plan, which called for the retrofit of the school and construction of a new apartment unit on the property, remains in place. Any further development requires council approval.
Meanwhile, the council and staff are reviewing expressions of interest for a new town hall that could involve the former church property across Main Street from the Woodstock courthouse.
The town previously reached out to developers for proposals to provide a structure with a town hall as a long-term tenant. The expressions of interest could involve utilizing the townowned church property or a separate proposal for a building elsewhere in the downtown core.
At the April 16 councilin-committee meeting,
Garnett said the town is reviewing one application involving the church property and four proposing a town hall elsewhere.
In addition to the shortage of town hall space, the council is actively pursuing opportunities to address the housing shortage. At a late March council meeting, Garnett informed the council that the federal government declined Woodstock’s application for up to $5 million of financial support under its Housing Accelerator Fund.
“We were hoping to receive funds but were advised we would not be getting any funds,” Garnett said. “Our application was strong, but there were a lot of applications. We are hoping there may be a second round.”
Mayor Jones noted that no one on the western side of the province received funds from the federal program.
Townsview School asks for use of town-owned property
Woodstock council recommended that staff
prepare an agreement to provide Townsview School access to adjacent townowned land.
Mayor Trina Jones explained the town’s longterm plans for the property, which sits between the school and Woodstock
Baptist Church, centres on the potential construction of a street connecting L.P. Fisher Lane and Squires Street if future development warrants it. She added the town has no immediate plans for the property.
While the school currently uses the green space as an outdoor learning site for K-to-Grade 8 students, it hopes to expand its use. In its request to the town, the school explained that it wants to create a garden, trail network, and additional outdoor learning spaces.
Redevelopment of the former Woodstock Middle School is on hold as former partnership ends. (Jim Dumville photo)
Province rejects Carleton North, Hartland policing proposal
Community vows to continue efforts to replace RCMP
with more
responsive police force under the municipalities’ control
By Jim Dumville, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, and Sandra Hanson
New Brunswick Justice and Public Safety Minister Kris Austin rejected Carleton North and Hartland’s proposal to replace the RCMP with a municipal force. Still, the communities will not give up the fight.
“I’m not defeated yet,” said District of Carleton North Coun. Scott Oakes, who chaired the council’s policing committee.
Describing the minister’s rejection as “disappointing,” Oakes said the status quo doesn’t solve existing problems, including lack of police coverage and control of policing costs.
Carleton North Mayor Andrew Harvey announced the minister’s rejection letter at the April 9 council meeting. Like Oakes, he expressed disappointment with the Province’s decision.
“Unfortunately, the issues we have in rural New Brunswick, and specifically the District of Carleton North, are still the same – escalating policing costs with no way to control those costs, a lack of accountability, and a lack of a local detachment,” Harvey told the River Valley Sun.
The mayor pointed to the Province’s planned review of New Brunswick policing standards and services as a reason to hope the rejection is only temporary.
“We stand by our proposal, our business case, and our financial model,” he said. The numbers were solid, and we were
ready to go. So now, we’re just waiting.”
In an emailed statement to the River Valley Sun, the Department of Justice and Public Safety said the Province is open to further conversations with the District of Carleton North and the town of Hartland.
Communications Officer Allan Dearing said the department recognizes the high and growing costs of police services throughout the Province.
“Several communities are looking at ways to slow the increases,” he said in the department’s statement.
The statement outlined the high bar municipalities must clear to deliver their own policing service.
“It must be able to operate in accordance with the New Brunswick Policing Standards, policies, and related legislation while showing it can financially maintain and support a police service,” the statement explained.
Oakes believes their proposal met those standards.
“Our proposal wasn’t thrown together in an afternoon, it was months and months of research. We were very honest in our evaluation and budgeted for the worst-case scenario,” Oakes said. “Even with that, we were at or below what we currently pay to the RCMP and the difference would be that we would then have 24-hour coverage and twenty members
dedicated to our area.”
However, the proposal didn’t convince department officials or the minister that the communities could deliver a police force at this time, citing cost and staff recruitment as the most significant factors.
“The Department of Justice and Public Safety thoroughly reviewed Hartland and Carleton North’s submission for a potential standalone police force.” the department statement explained. “In addition to increasing costs, recruitment and retention of police officers has been difficult for all police forces across the province and across the country.”
Dearing said the department is open to further discussions.
Oakes disagreed with the department’s reasoning. Not only does Carleton North and Hartland’s municipal police force plan deliver more responsive policing at a lower cost than they currently pay the RCMP, but it also puts costs under control.
“We don’t get to negotiate the contract; we have no say in it – what our services are or the cost. We just pay the bill,” Oakes said.
He said a municipal police force is the only option that allows the district to control policing costs, presence, and visibility.
Oakes acknowledged the two communities cannot afford the transition
costs associated with the changeover from the RCMP to a municipal force. The plan asked for the Province to bear those costs.
He explained that the most significant cost of the changeover was establishing headquarters for the new force. The plan called for using Florenceville-Bristol’s former RCMP station, with a satellite office in the former RCMP office in Hartland.
“The biggest expense was the refurbishment of a building for our police station. We didn’t want to burden our taxpayers with that cost. We’re small enough that we hoped the Province would be willing to invest some money with us, in order to make it more equitable for our District and the Town of Hartland,” said Oakes.
He said the need for a new police headquarters points a finger at the RCMP’s shortfall, noting the lack of an RCMP office in either community.
“We were told very clearly by the RCMP that bringing a detachment back to Florenceville is not on the table,” he said. “We asked all those questions before taking the direction we did.”
Oakes said the RCMP currently patrols the two communities, with a population of 13,500, despite no dedicated detachment.
“That is completely unheard of in the rest of Canada,” he said.
The nearest RCMP detachment is in
Carleton North Coun. Scott Oakes, above, chair of the council’s policing committee, said the District Carleton North and the Town of Hartland will continue to push their plan for a municipal police force to serve the two communities. The Justice and Public Safety Minister Kris Austin recently rejected the comprehensive plan submitted last year by the two communities. (Submitted photo)
Woodstock. The federal force covers most of Woodstock, except within the boundaries of the former town patrolled by the Woodstock Police Force.
The minister recently accepted Woodstock’s plan to expand the Woodstock Police Force’s coverage to the entire municipality, including $3 million over two years of provincial funds to support the transition.
Woodstock Mayor Trina Jones announced at the April 16 council meeting that the town would study its options, noting the expansion would require a tax hike for taxpayers in the outlying
wards. The Woodstock plan would require the police budget to jump from $3.3 million to $7.7 million and the staff to double.
Oakes also disagreed with public safety officials’ concerns about recruitment challenges.
He dismissed staffing as a significant challenge, noting that several potential recruits had already shown interest. He added that they talked to officers in other areas, hoping to relocate to central and northern Carleton County. Oakes said the community is on hold as they await a provincewide policing study.
Where’s the beef? At the Carleton County Spring Show and Sale
With 39 exhibitors and record sales, the 71st annual event hits new highs
By Jim Dumville - Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
With 39 exhibitors and record sales, the 71st annual event hits new highs and celebrates agriculture and community strength
The rebounding success of the Carleton County Spring Show and Sale continued last week as it welcomed 39 exhibitors to the show, with record prices delivered at the sale.
The 71st annual event, held April 15 to 17 at the Northern Carleton Civic Centre in Florenceville-Bristol, marked its continued growth following the forced downturn during the COVID pandemic.
CCSSS President Laurie Findlater described this year’s event in a social media post as “one for the books.”
During her remarks to open this year’s sale portion of the three-day event, Findlater spread credit for the show and sale’s continuing success to many groups and individuals, including fellow board members, the local beef industry, exhibitors, buyers and sponsors.
Findlater acknowledged the buyers and sponsors who filled a large section of the civic centre’s stands for Wednesday’s auction “have been supporting us
for over 40 years.”
That support, which included many familiar faces, grew in strength in 2024. The 39 animals sold for a total of almost $400,000. The average price of $8.53 per pound eclipsed the record of $8.20 set last year.
The sale began on Wednesday with 4-H member Bryson Longstaff walking his 2024 Grand Champion Hereford through the ring as auctioneer Dave Crouse took bids from the stands.
A group of familiar faces at the sale delivered the highest bid. Caleb Cook and Lee Patterson of Valley Equipment, Jason Green of Valley Honda, and Glazier Canam of Connell Chrysler purchased the 2024 Grand Champion for $11.25 per pound.
Longstaff’s first time showing an animal at the event will provide lasting memories. In addition to earning the Grand Champion ribbon, he took home the 4-H animal championship and Champion Hereford titles.
He said participating in the show, especially while earning the Grand Champion ribbon, is worth the long hours and work involved in raising and caring for a championship-worthy steer.
Former New Brunswick Premier David Alward, whose family operates a beef farm near Meductic, was one of the many volunteers on hand at the show and sale. He credited Longstaff and the 4-H program as pivotal reasons for the event’s ongoing success.
Alward proudly noted that Longstaff’s champion steer began life on the Alward farm.
The 4-H Clubs, as they have for several decades, play a pivotal role in the success of the show and sale.
Countryside 4-H member Rebecca McDermid brushed her animal before the sale. She will also take home great memories from her first show the day before, where she earned the title of “Best 4-H Showman.”
Countryside 4-H member Abby Hunter, a show and sale veteran, said 4-H membership continues to grow within the beef industry and in all aspects of agriculture and community involvement.
During the 2024 event, Hunter earned titles for 4-H Reserve Champion, Champion Crossbred and Top Overall 4-H Beef Member.
Carleton-Victoria MLA and N.B. Agriculture, Aqua-
culture and Fisheries Minister Margaret Johnson understands the community significance of the show and sale and the 4-H Clubs throughout the Upper Valley. She said she witnessed the impact of the 4-H memberships on young people for decades.
Johnson praised 4-H members and leaders during her remarks before the start of Wednesday’s sale.
“They’re a stellar group of young people,” she said. “They are the future of agriculture.”
Carleton MLA and Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Bill Hogan echoed Johnson’s remarks about 4-H. He said the organization offers a great chance to socialize, learn and gain confidence.
Hogan, Johnson and Tobique-Mactaquac MP Richard Bragdon partnered
to purchase Hunter’s animal during the sale.
During her address before the sale on Wednesday, Johnson thanked farmers and supporters who make the Carleton County Spring Show and Sale a success year after year.
While acknowledging the event and recent good news announcements provides a reason to celebrate ongoing agriculture success, Johnson said farmers still face “serious challenges.”
The provincial government recently announced that the agriculture sector finished 2023 with more than $1.2 billion in farm cash receipts, up from the previous record of just over $1.1 billion set the year before. Agriculture and agri-food exports totalled $778.4 million in 2023, top-
ping the previous record of $689 million in 2022.
While agriculture sales numbers increase, Johnson noted farmers face rising costs.
“We have fuel increases. We have fertilizer increases. We have seed increases,” Johnson said.
Johnson also welcomed the privilege of announcing the 2024 Grand Champion Burger contest winner, which started four years ago to promote Upper Valley beef. She said 13 restaurants served a special burger this year, and the public voted for their favourite.
Johnson said she tried them all.
This year’s winner was Lakeway Restaurant in Meductic, which served the Messy Bessy. The Lakeville Store’s Bourbon Street Burger took second place.
Bryson Longstaff's Grand Champion was purchased by, from left, Glazier Canam of Connell Chrysler, Lea Patterson of Valley Equipment, Caleb Cook of Valley Equipment and Jason Green of Valley Honda. (Jim Dumville photo)
SCAMS: DON’T TAKE THE BAIT!
By Cherie Linder
The use of language and sometimes its misuse can tip you off to a scammer who is attempting to defraud you.
Scammers say things we can look for that may tip us off that they are lying to us and not who they are pretending to be.
Scams work when the scammer manipulates your emotions. They either scare you with threats or make you happy with promises of big money.
In romance scams, they start using words like “forever” and telling you they love you shortly after you begin communicating with them.
As a result, to hear or see these clues, we must first get past the emotions. While you’re in an emotional state,
Do you speak ‘scammer?’
they can really take advantage of you!
Bad grammar, incorrect capitalization, unusual wording, incomplete or rambling sentences, and vague references are common mistakes that scammers use.
Scammers may address an email to “Dear Account Holder” when they should know your name. They may not be at all concerned with these mistakes.
They hope that the mystique of their offer or the fear they have instilled in you is so big that you will overlook them.
These are a few lines they often use:
“Act now!” Scammers use high pressure, so you don’t have time to think or contact someone to verify their claims.
Maybe they tell you that there is an urgent matter that needs to be taken care of to prevent something terrible from happening.
The scammer portrays themselves as your saviour, rescuing you from cyber crimes while they are really the
criminals.
“Only say what I tell you to say.” If a caller tells you to lie to anyone, including bank tellers, investment brokers, store employees selling gift cards, family, or friends, it is most likely a scam.
“Don’t trust anyone. Don’t tell anyone.” Scammers want to keep you from contact with anyone who might spot the scam in progress. If you tell someone, they could ask questions and make you question the legitimacy of the scammer’s offers.
“Don’t hang up.” If someone wants to keep you on the phone while you withdraw or transfer money, buy large amounts of gift cards, or anything that involves you sending or giving them anything, it is a scam.
If a scammer tells you that you won a prize, you do not need to pay any amount of money to collect it. If they tell you that there is a fee attached, it is a scam.
Here are some things only scammers will tell you to do:
“Withdraw money
from your bank savings.”
“Go to a Bitcoin ATM.”
“Buy gift cards and give me the codes and pin numbers.”
If you see or hear any version of any of these quotes, you are being scammed. Do not do what they say. Hang up, delete the email, stop texting, block their number, and stay safe!
Linder is an administrative assistant with the Woodstock Police Force. She collaborates with Community Resource Officer Cst. Shaun
for this column.
A reminder that if you have been scammed, DON’T be embarrassed, but DO contact the police.
Cherie
Kimball
COURT NEWS
A roundup of cases processed through Woodstock Provincial Court
By Judy Cole-Underhill
Centreville man sentenced to 40 months
Isaak Tedford Thomas, 28, of Centreville, was sentenced to 40 months in federal prison, minus time served, when he appeared in provincial court in custody by video on May 10 after pleading guilty to multiple charges laid by the RCMP.
Judge Cameron Gunn also ordered Thomas to register with the federal DNA database and was prohibited from firearms for life. A loaded shotgun used in the commission of the offence was forfeited to the crown. Thomas appeared nervous as he listened to the judge tell the court that gun-related crimes are taken seriously and present grave danger to the public.
Thomas pleaded guilty to careless use of a firearm, possession of a firearm without a licence, being an occupant of a vehicle knowing it carried a gun, resisting arrest, possession of a firearm while prohibited, and breaching probation.
The charges were laid following an incident that began in Speerville on July 17, 2023 and involved a gunshot fired at a local resident, a seven-hour police search, and a collision between a stolen side-byside and a police cruiser in Lower Brighton. One police officer was injured during the arrest.
A co-accused, Connell McLean, was sentenced to 28 months in federal prison in March, minus time served. He admitted to being the driver of the stolen side-by-side. Thomas and McLean have been in jail since last July.
Cloverdale man pleads guilty to shooting at police
A federal prison term is expected for a Cloverdale man who pleaded guilty to shooting at a police officer.
Wyatt DeLong, 28, of Cloverdale, appeared for trial in provincial court in custody by video on May 3 and changed his plea to guilty on four charges.
DeLong pleaded guilty to discharging a firearm with intent at a police officer, flight from police, dangerous driving and breach of probation in connection with an incident on July 14, 2023, at Florenceville-Bristol.
Judge Cameron Gunn set a date for his sentencing on June 24 at 1:30 p.m. DeLong remains in custody. Under the Criminal Code of Canada, a conviction for discharging a firearm with intent (to endanger the life or safety of another person) carries a potential prison sentence of five years for a first offence.
A co-accused, Ja-
nis Buchanan, 28, of Perth-Andover, appeared in provincial court in custody by video in Sept. 2023 and pleaded guilty to robbery with violence for an incident on May 29, 2023, at Florenceville-Bristol. She was sentenced to two years in federal prison.
DeLong and Buchanan were arrested after a manhunt in Victoria County in connection with a series of incidents in the upper River Valley.
Meductic man sentenced for child luring
Brian Trevor Fox, 47, of Meductic, was sentenced to six months in jail when he appeared in provincial court on May 8 on a charge of child luring.
Judge Sebastian Michaud also placed Fox on 18 months of probation and ordered him to seek counselling. He must also register with the federal DNA database and join the national registry for sex offenders for 10 years.
Fox pleaded guilty to using a computer system to lure a child (female minor) in connection with incidents between Nov. 1 and Nov. 26, 2019, at Meductic. The crown withdrew three other charges laid by the RCMP. He had no prior criminal record.
Graphic evidence submitted by the crown included transcripts of several sexually explicit messages and photos exchanged between Fox and the victim during online conversations on Facebook over two months.
In pronouncing the sentence, Judge Michaud said Fox accepted responsibility for his crime and expressed shame and regret for his actions. However, the judge said the accused did not show true remorse for what he did to the victim or the psychological suffering she endured.
“This is a serious offence and the moral culpability is high for Mr. Fox,” said Judge Michaud. “He has failed miserably in his actions toward the victim he knew was under age.”
While describing Fox’s sexually-charged messages as “abhorrent,” Michaud spoke about the harmful effects of online luring, which leaves victims blaming themselves for participating and falling into the trap set by the offender.
The judge said this type of criminal activity may not result in physical contact. Still, it reaches into the homes and bedrooms of children and youth, places where they should feel safe from predators.
Fox’s cell phone, seized during the police investigation, was forfeited to the
crown. During an earlier court appearance, Fox told the court the revelations had “literally destroyed his life.” He hung his head during the proceedings on Wednesday and left court quietly in handcuffs, escorted by sheriffs.
Sentenced to 35 days
Shane Lee Dickison, 36, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court in custody on May 7 and was sentenced to 35 days in jail after pleading guilty to three charges laid by Woodstock Police and RCMP.
He was also fined $100 and placed on 12 months of probation. Dickison was ordered to seek counselling for mental health and addiction. He had no prior criminal record.
He pleaded guilty to flight from police on Sept. 27, 2023, at Teeds Mill. The court heard he fled on an ATV down a trail near Hodgdon Road.
Dickison also pleaded guilty to breaching a nocontact order on Jan. 11 and violating an emergency intervention order on June 18, 2023, in Woodstock.
On May 7, he faced new charges of two counts of assault with a weapon (a knife) involving another man, two counts of uttering threats, breach of a peace bond, and resisting arrest in connection with incidents on April 23 and May 6 in Lower Woodstock. Bloomfield man charged in highway accident
A Bloomfield man remains in custody following an accident near Meductic on April 26 when a vehicle was forced off the four-lane highway by an oncoming car driving in the wrong lane.
Logan Sanders, 22, of Bloomfield, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on May 2. He was charged with indictable dangerous driving and failing to stop at the scene of an accident. RCMP arrested him on April 27 while attempting to cross the Woodstock/ Houlton border.
On May 2, Sanders waived his bail until later. He was remanded to jail to await his next court appearance on May 16 at 9:30 a.m. The court heard he needed more time to secure legal counsel.
Sanders also faces charges of assault with a weapon (a knife) involving a male victim and two counts of uttering threats on Sept. 1 in Bloomfield; committing mischief by damaging doors and windows on Oct. 1-31 at Maple Ridge, and committing mischief by damaging a woodstove, walls, door and a table at a residence on Dec. 1-31 in Bloomfield.
A Plaster Rock woman and three youths were not injured when their vehicle left the highway and rolled over in the ditch after swerving to avoid the oncoming car travelling westbound at high speed.
Judge reluctant to hand sentence of time served
A Hartland man walked away from a major theft with time served, but the judge who imposed the sentence said he deserved more.
Jonathon Daniel Stockford, 35, of Hartland, appeared in court on April 18 and was sentenced to seven months in jail or time served on four charges laid by the RCMP.
Stockford was charged with theft of fuel from an Esso station in Florenceville-Bristol, breaking into the Sticks and Stones Storage facility on Burnham Road, theft of tires and rims, possession of stolen property, and mischief causing property damage to the storage facility following an incident on Burnham Road on Nov. 14, 2023. He pleaded guilty to four of the charges. The crown withdrew the charge of possession of stolen goods.
Seated in the prisoner’s box, Stockford looked worried when Judge Henrik Tonning said he disagreed with the crown and defence counsel’s joint submission to release the accused with time served.
“This man is a thief,” Judge Tonning told the court. “He simply hasn’t learned that you can’t behave like this. You can’t just help yourself to other people’s property.”
Judge Tonning noted Stockford’s “unbelievable record for property offences” and suggested a 12-month jail sentence was more suitable for the accused.
“In my opinion, the sentence recommended is too light,” said Tonning.
Defence Counsel Alex Pate explained that there was an agreement with the crown for seven months or time served because Stockford wore a mask during the crime, and for that reason, the crown’s case against the accused was not ironclad. The break-in at the storage facility was captured on video surveillance.
Judge Tonning conceded and released Stockford with time served, but he imposed a stand-alone restitution order. This means the owner of the stolen tires and rims can take civil action against Stockford to recover the cost of the lost property.
Judge Tonning first asked if Stockford could return the tires and rims to the owner, but the court heard
These pages contain some of the court coverage we provide for the community. Find all court stories at rivervalleysun.ca
he drove to Rosedale and burned the vehicle he used in the break-in with the stolen tires and rims still on it.
Stockford told the judge he planned to get a farm job after his release.
“You’re going to have to pick a lot of rocks to pay for those tires and rims,” Judge Tonning said. “He’s never going to pay for it and she (the owner) is out the cost.”
Holding back tears, Kelsey Smith read her victim impact statement and told the judge she had just purchased a new vehicle when, 10 days later, her brand-new tires and rims were stolen from the storage facility. She said the tires and rims initially cost $6,500, and then she had to replace them, which doubled her loss to $13,000.
Stockford hung his head in the prisoner’s box while hearing her statement but showed no emotion. He has a lengthy prior criminal record and has been in custody since his arrest in Nov. His defence lawyer told the court Stockford has been a drug addict since his youth. Five months for assault, unlawful confinement
Robert Dale McMann, 47, of Woodstock, was sentenced to five months in jail on April 19 for a violent assault on a woman during a domestic dispute.
Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean also placed McMann on 12 months of probation and ordered him to register with the federal DNA database. A 10-year prohibition on firearms was also imposed. He must also attend counselling for mental health, drug addiction and domestic violence.
McMann was found guilty after trial on charges of unlawful confinement and assaulting a female victim by choking her during a Sept. 9, 2021, incident in Woodstock. He was found not guilty on a third charge of uttering threats.
In pronouncing sentence, Judge McLean noted McMann had a limited prior record that included only one previous criminal code conviction in 2010 for assault causing bodily harm to another man. There was no history of domestic violence on his record.
McLean said the accused was remorseful and was open to attending counselling. He ordered McMann to have no contact with the woman involved in the domestic assault.
“I feel bad about everything,” McMann said before hearing his sentence.
McMann pleaded guilty on Feb. 27 to possessing stolen property (an SD card and batteries) owned by Cook Construction
Ltd. on Dec. 22, 2021, in Woodstock and failing to appear in court on Jan. 17, 2023.
For those offences, he received a suspended sentence and 12 months of probation. McMann was also ordered to pay $200 restitution for the stolen property. The crown withdrew one other charge.
The court heard Woodstock Police arrested McMann while he was hiding in the dark in a lumber yard owned by Cook Construction Ltd. Police were called to the scene around 3 a.m. to investigate a theft of copper wire.
Crown Prosecutor Kathleen Jacobs said McMann’s involvement in the theft was minimal, but he was found in possession of the SD card and batteries. The company reported extensive damage to its property as a result of the incident.
Defence Counsel Steve McNair argued a $37,000 request for restitution from Cook Construction did not involve his client.
Trial adjourned on drug charge
Bronwyn Barbara Thomas, 23, of Bloomfield, appeared in provincial court on May 2 for trial on a drug charge. The matter was adjourned until May 14 at 1:30 p.m. to set a new trial date at the request of her defence counsel.
RCMP charged Thomas with attempting to possess methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking in connection with an incident on March 2, 2022, near Centreville. She pleaded not guilty.
Sentenced to 23 months Ryan James Smith, 35, of Woodstock, formerly of Perth, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on April 10 and changed his plea to guilty on multiple charges.
He was sentenced to 23 months in jail, minus time served, and was placed on probation for two years. Smith was also ordered to register with the federal DNA database, and a lifetime prohibition on firearms was also imposed.
Smith appeared in court in custody for his bail hearing on Nov. 1, 2023, and was remanded. He had an extensive criminal record and was in custody since late Sept..
Smith was charged by RCMP with possession of a firearm while prohibited, possession of a stolen vehicle, being an occupant of a vehicle knowing it carried a gun, obstructing police, carelessly transporting a firearm, and possession of a firearm without a licence,
See COURT on pg. 29
Continued from page 28
stemming from an incident on Sept. 30, 2023, in Hartland.
He was also charged with possessing a stolen vehicle, committing mischief causing property damage to a car window, and driving while suspended for another incident in Meductic on Sept. 30, 2023.
Woodstock Police also charged him with trespassing on private property on Broadway Street in Woodstock on Aug. 3 and Aug. 29, 2023. At sentencing, the crown withdrew two firearm charges and the trespassing charges.
80 days or time served
Keith Kinney, Jr., 49, of Bath, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on May 9 and was sentenced to 80 days in jail or time served after pleading guilty to four charges laid by RCMP. He was also placed on probation for 12 months.
Kinney was arrested on a warrant and held in custody after he failed to appear in provincial court to set a new date for his trial. He appeared in provincial court in custody on Dec. 18, 2023, after being arrested on a warrant for failing to appear for trial in Oct.. He was released with conditions but then failed to return to court again.
On April 18, Kinney pleaded guilty to two counts of failing to appear in court on Jan. 9 and Oct. 16, 2023; resisting arrest on Jan. 8, 2023, in Bath; and theft from a store in Bath on Nov. 21, 2023. The crown withdrew one other assault charge against police.
Two remain in custody after police chase
Marshall Turner, 23, of Beaconsfield, and Kelsey Janetta Brooker, 30, of Florenceville-Bristol, were arrested and charged by RCMP following a police chase across Carleton North. They remain in custody.
Turner appeared in provincial court in custody by video on May 9 for a bail hearing. The hearing was adjourned until May 23 at 9:30 a.m. He was charged with possession of a stolen truck, flight from police, dangerous driving and breach of probation.
Brooker was charged with breach of a conditional sentence order and remanded to jail and appeared in court in custody by video on April 30 for a hearing when she denied breaching her conditional sentence order. After the hearing, she was ordered to complete her sentence behind bars.
They were arrested on April 23 after police pursued the pair through Beaconsfield, Florenceville-Bristol and Johnville, where they were apprehended with the
assistance of a police dog and police helicopter. Turner and Brooker both have prior criminal records.
Awaiting trial on assault charges
Stacey Harry Broad, 56, of Centreville, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on May 9 and pleaded not guilty to multiple assault charges laid by RCMP. His trial date was set for Sept. 4.
Broad returns to court in custody for a bail hearing on May 23. He was charged with assault, assault by choking, sexual assault and unlawful confinement involving a female victim in connection with an incident in York County between April 3 and April 10. He was released with conditions but was re-arrested for breaching his release order on April 15. Charged with drug trafficking
Nathan Aaron Sewell, 36, of Wilmot, appeared in provincial court on April 30 and pleaded not guilty to charges laid by RCMP. His two-day trial was set for May 15-16, 2025, at 9:30 a.m.
Sewell was charged with possession of methamphetamine and possession of cocaine, both for the purpose of trafficking, and three counts of possession of stolen property (an ID card, registration and mail) concerning an incident on Feb. 15 at Bairdsville.
He appeared in court in custody on Feb. 17 and was released with conditions, including wearing an electronic monitoring device. Sewell has a prior criminal record. Sentenced to 125 days or time served
Corbin Messinger, 22, of Plaster Rock, appeared in provincial court in custody for sentencing on April 15 on five charges laid by RCMP. He was handed 125 days in jail or time served and was released from custody.
Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean also placed Messinger on 12 months of probation and ordered him to seek counselling for mental health and addiction.
Messinger pleaded guilty to two counts of breaching a release order and two counts of uttering threats following an incident on Jan. 20 at Plaster Rock. He also pleaded guilty to assault while threatening to use a weapon (a knife) stemming from an incident on Jan. 17 at Plaster Rock. The knife was forfeited to the crown.
He appeared in provincial court in custody on Jan. 22, only four days after his release from jail and was remanded for a bail hearing. He pleaded guilty and was remanded for sentencing. Messinger had a prior criminal record.
Conditional discharge,
probation for threats
David Fleming, 18, of Plaster Rock, received a conditional discharge and two years of probation when he appeared in provincial court on April 16 for sentencing. He was also ordered to seek counselling for mental health and anger management.
RCMP charged Fleming with three counts of uttering threats against three female victims on Nov. 2, 2023, at Plaster Rock. He pleaded guilty to all three counts. The incident was related to a lockdown at Tobique Valley High School.
Fleming appeared in court in custody after the incident and was released with conditions.
Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean ordered him to stay away from the school and not contact the three complainants. Fleming had no prior criminal record, and he was prohibited from using firearms during his probation.
Judge McLean noted Fleming was a youthful offender who was remorseful and accepted responsibility for his actions. He also had a strong work record.
Jacksonville woman awaits sentencing
Stephanie Lynn Lockard, 41, of Jacksonville, appeared for trial in provincial court on April 15 and changed her plea to guilty on a lesser included offence. Lockard was charged by Woodstock Police with possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking and illegal possession of cannabis, stemming from an incident on Dec. 17, 2022, in Woodstock.
She pleaded guilty to possession of methamphetamine and illegal possession of cannabis, and the trafficking charge was withdrawn. Her sentencing is July 16 at 1:30 p.m.
Coldstream woman pleads guilty
Alexandra Weeks, 20, of Coldstream, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on April 29. She waived her bail and pleaded guilty to a series of charges laid by the RCMP. She returns to court for sentencing on May 28 at 1:30 p.m.
Weeks pleaded guilty to breaching her curfew on April 17, possession of methamphetamine, possession of a stolen vehicle, possession of stolen property (licence plates), and breach of probation in connection with an incident on April 1 at East Brighton.
The court heard a vehicle was stolen in Carlow and was spotted driving up and down the East Brighton Road. Police stopped the vehicle and found methamphetamine and the original licence plates inside.
Guilty pleas on raft of charges
Brady Melvin Crain, 27,
of Wicklow, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on April 18 and pleaded guilty to a raft of charges laid by RCMP. His sentencing date was set for May 16 at 1:30 p.m.
Crain pleaded guilty to two counts of breaching his curfew on Feb. 23, 2023, at Perth-Andover and on Dec. 6, 2021 at Mount Pleasant; guilty to taking a vehicle without consent and breach of curfew on Aug. 20, 2022, at Perth-Andover; guilty to breach of an undertaking on Oct. 28, 2022, at Perth-Andover; guilty to taking a vehicle without consent on and breach of an undertaking on Jan. 5, 2023, at Perth-Andover; guilty to failing to appear in court on Oct. 9, 2023, in Bath; guilty to failing to wear his ankle bracelet and flight from police between Oct. 9, 2023 and Feb. 13; guilty to mischief causing damage to his ankle bracelet on Oct. 9, 2023; guilty to breach of a release order and failing to appear in court between Jan. 17 and Feb. 13 at Johnville; guilty to being at large on a release order, possession of a stolen ATV, two counts of assault a police officer and resisting arrest on Feb. 13 at Johnville; and guilty to break and enter at a dwelling house on Feb. 13. The crown withdrew several other charges. He appeared in provincial court in custody on Feb. 14 and was remanded to jail following a bail hearing. He was arrested on a warrant.
Crain was also charged with assault on a female victim and breach of an emergency intervention order concerning incidents on April 29, 2021, and March 14, 2021, in Woodstock. He pleaded guilty, and a sentencing date was set for July 27, 2023, but he failed to appear. He will be sentenced on May 16.
Fined $1,800 for impaired driving
Alexander St. Peter, 26, of Arthurette, appeared in provincial court on April 16 to answer an impaired driving charge. He pleaded guilty and was fined $1,800. He was also prohibited from driving for one year.
RCMP charged St. Peter with impaired driving on July 29, 2023, at Bedell. Police laid the charge after a vehicle entered the ditch, and a tow truck was called. There were two occupants in the vehicle, and St. Peter admitted to being the driver.
St. Peter had a prior criminal record, including one previous conviction for impaired driving in 2017. However, a jail sentence was not imposed since the 2017 conviction was outside the five-year parameter for a second offence. One year sentence and more guilty pleas Brandon Cecil Armour, 34, of no fixed address, ap-
peared in provincial court in custody on May 1 and pleaded guilty to two charges laid by Woodstock Police. A monitoring date was set for May 14 at 1:30 p.m. to resolve any other outstanding charges. Woodstock Police charged Armour with prowling at night and resisting arrest in connection with an incident on March 24, 2023, in Woodstock. He pleaded guilty on May 1.
Armour appeared in provincial court in custody by video on April 11 and was sentenced to one year in jail, minus time served, after pleading guilty to another charge. He was also placed on probation for 12 months.
Armour was charged by RCMP with breaking into a dwelling house, committing mischief causing property damage to a door, and assaulting a female victim, stemming from an incident on June 8, 2022, in Beechwood. He pleaded guilty to breaking into the dwelling, and the crown withdrew the two remaining charges.
He was also charged with breach of an undertaking and failing to attend court on July 11, 2023, as well as theft of a vehicle and resisting arrest on Aug. 14, 2023. He pleaded not guilty at an earlier court appearance, and a trial date was set for Sept. 5 at 9:30 a.m.
Armour was also charged by the RCMP with breaching a release order following incidents on Jan. 7 and Feb. 6 near Johnville. He appeared in court in custody on Feb. 9 for a bail hearing and waived his bail until later. On March 13, he pleaded not guilty to two counts of breaching his release order, and a trial date was set for Sept. 5. Boehler sentenced in neighbour dispute
Laura Lee Boehler, 65, of Richmond Corner, received a suspended sentence, 12 months of probation, and a stern warning from Judge Lucie Mathurin to stay away from her neighbours when she appeared in provincial court on April 10.
Boehler told the judge the victim impact statement submitted to the court by her neighbours contained false information and she was harassed on the way to court.
“I don’t want to hear it,” Judge Mathurin replied.
The judge told Boehler she was prohibited from taking any photos or videos of her neighbours or their property and must have no further contact with them. Mathurin allowed Boehler to keep a dash cam in her vehicle, but stressed it could not be used to film the Wortmans.
Boehler was found guilty after trial in Jan. of committing mischief and breaching an undertaking to have no contact with her
neighbours. She was found not guilty of criminal harassment and assault. She was ordered to sign a peace bond and not contact her neighbours again.
RCMP charged Boehler with assault with a weapon (a cane), criminal harassment, two counts of committing mischief, and breach of an undertaking concerning incidents between June 28 and Sept. 13, 2021, and between July 3 and Aug. 30, 2021, at Richmond Corner. She appeared in court in custody in Sept. 2021 in relation to the charges and was later released on an order to keep the peace.
Trial evidence presented by the crown included video surveillance of her neighbours’ property and testimony from Boehler’s neighbours, Duane and Sherry Wortman. Boehler testified in her own defence.
The long-standing dispute began when the Wortmans moved into their home on Boehler Road in 2010. The Boehlers have lived on a farm on the same road for four generations.
In reviewing evidence, Judge Mathurin said Boehler and the Wortmans were “provoking each other constantly.” A main bone of contention was the unsightly premises surrounding the Wortman property, which Judge Mathurin described as an “eye sore.”
Crown Prosecutor Wesley McIntosh told the court that Boehler must focus on her own life, care for her elderly mother, and ignore what her neighbours are doing. He said the Wortmans struggle with anxiety and have been unable to enjoy their property for years because of Boehler.
“They are not interested in her going to jail as it would only aggravate the situation,” McIntosh said.
Defence Counsel Ben Reentovich said Boehler and the Wortmans were to blame for the feud, calling the authorities to report each other “all the time.”
During one incident, Reentovich said Boehler was “effectively provoked” when she pulled down her pants and mooned her neighbours. She was charged and convicted of indecent exposure but later filed an appeal and got a conditional discharge.
The defence noted Boehler was living on a pension while residing with her elderly mother. She spent one day in jail during her arrest in 2021 and has been under a court order since that time.
Judge Mathurin concluded she could have sentenced Boehler to jail but decided on a lighter sentence since the accused had been “following conditions lately” to keep the peace.
BEAUTIFUL BUMBLES
By Linda McHatten
As I sit here drinking my hot chocolate and admiring such a beautiful morning, I remind myself that the 2024 bumbling season has arrived. YAY!
I find myself looking back at some of the memorable bumble trips we took last year. There was the time we ventured to Vulture’s Bluff, a place I had never been to, let alone heard of.
IN A ‘MANOR’ OF SPEAKING
By Jane Jones
Calling all friendly, compassionate, fabulous folks. Yes, you guessed it, ‘volunteers’.
Our residents look forward to becoming healthier, active, and social this spring and are starting a project that requires your help.
Their newly formed SAVER project (Seniors And Volunteers Enhancing Rehabilitation) needs volunteers to help them go on walks, ride stationary bicycles, and be social.
Volunteers would be welcome to join us through-
NACKAWICMILLVILLE COMMUNITY NEWS
By Julie Stone
Volunteer of the Month
Andrea Dore has been chosen Volunteer of the Month by the Nackawic & Area Wellness Committee. Like many working individuals, she’s made time in her busy schedule to improve the community.
Andrea is a former member of the Festival on the Bend Committee, active in fundraising for Nackawic High School,
Revisiting last season’s bumble to Vulture’s Bluff
It is always nice to see new places. On July 22, we left the Pembroke area and headed to River Front Pub in Nackawic for lunch. Our bumble consisted of 21 bikes and 39 people. It was quite the crew.
There was a lot of laughter and storytelling, and the girls waiting on us during lunch were the best.
With our bellies full and leftovers packed to snack on later, we hopped on our buggies and headed to Vultures Bluff.
Vultures Bluff is located in the Greenhill Lake area. We followed the trail towards Zealand, and at the Prossers Rest stop, we turned left and headed toward Greenhill Lake Road.
The trails get dusty at
times, and a rocky path leads up to the base of the bluff. From the base, it becomes quite steep.
Being an adventurous group, we continued on. We took lots of pictures of the view. It overlooks the Green Hill Lake area, and we saw lots of green foliage.
I remember standing back to take a look at the camaraderie going on. It is so awesome to see this. We have no cares in the world when we’re together in the great wilderness. As usual, when we stopped for a break, there was another story to tell.
Oh, the stories that can be told on the trails! You know that saying, “What happens on the trails? Stay on the trails!”
We had to break up the fun and return to
the trail and our starting point. It has been a long day but a worthwhile one.
Unfortunately, I forgot to write the actual distance we travelled in my journal, but we guessed it was over 150 km.
We stopped along the trail now and again on
the way back to stretch our legs and have a snack.
Gary left us at Nackawic. It was a great day as usual, and most of us had no trouble sleeping that night.
Thank you, Dwayne, for escorting us to Vulture’s Bluff.
I wish all my fellow bumblers a great 2024 ATV season.
See you on the trails!
Seeking friendly, compassionate volunteers
out the week between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. at their own availability.
We’d love to hear from you. For specific details please contact our Activity
Centenarian Doris
for your support in getting her
Above right: High School Volunteer
markable for our
and
Coordinator, Mirna Rodriguez, by email at activity1@carletonmanor.ca or by phone at 506-325-4390! We hope you can join us at the Manor!
Recognizing a volunteer, Spring Tea, and benches
and spends countless hours volunteering at the Southampton Community Hall. Thank you for your efforts, Andrea. You are appreciated. Spring Tea
On Wednesday, May 22, at noon, the NackawicMillville Rural Community Age-Friendly Committee (AFC) will host a Spring Tea at the Lion’s Centre in Nackawic. All are welcome to attend, and the cost is by donation. Proceeds will go to the AFC to support its work in the area. Sandwiches and sweets will be served along with hot and cold beverages. Teacups and mugs will be displayed, and participants are invited to choose which one they would like to drink from as they sample the tasty treats provided by the AFC
with support from the Wellness Committee.
There are hopes for a sunny day, so reach out to a friend or neighbour and bring them along. If you have special food requirements or need a drive to the event, please contact Julie at 506-575-8312 or macston@rogers.com. See you there!! Benches
The Nackawic-Millville Rural Community Council has approved the request by the Age-Friendly Committee to place wooden benches along the sidewalks on Otis Drive in Nackawic. The idea came from a senior who finds the walk from her residence to the mall difficult and said it “would be great to have a place to rest along the way.” Others agreed, and the idea was brought to
the AFC.
Wood for the benches will be purchased from River Bend Log Homes and constructed by the Essential Skills students from Nackawic High School. The students will design, build, and stain the benches, which the Recreation Department and the Department of Public Works will then install. It is truly a project involving many from the community and several age groups. The AFC would like to thank our local MLA, Richard Ames, for his support in this venture.
Nackawic Fire Dept. AED
The Nackawic Fire Department has donated an AED to The Gathering Place and will give a demonstration to the visitors who frequent the centre. An AED, or automated ex-
ternal defibrillator, is used to help those experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. It’s a sophisticated yet easyto-use medical device that can analyze the heart’s rhythm and, if necessary, deliver an electrical shock or defibrillation to help the heart re-establish an effective rhythm. (Definition from the Internet)
The AFC is thankful to the fire department, as there are over 100 visitors to The Gathering Place, most of whom are seniors. The group also cleaned and updated the fire extinguisher in one of the centre’s common areas. Thank you to the fire department for considering the needs of seniors.
Garden Fair
The Nackawic Curling Club will host a Garden Fair on May 27 from 11
a.m. to 4 p.m.
The event includes a plant sale and craft fair and offers some fun and yummy ways to raise money for the Club, including a BBQ, Bake Sale, and Washer-Toss Tournament.
The Garden Fair is a great way to get rid of the cuttings you are taking off your shrubs and bushes or the extra plants you started but don’t really have room for in your garden.
Come out to meet friends and catch up with neighbours you may not have seen since last year at the fair. It will be busy and lots of fun. You can count on it!
an educator, advocate, and inclusion consultant who lives and volunteers in the municipality of Nackawic-Millville.
Julie Stone is
Linda McHatten is a retired LPN who now nurses her love for the outdoors. She and her husband live in Rosedale.
Jane Jones is a mom, wife, business owner and volunteer who lives in Woodstock.
Taking in the view at Vulture’s Bluff near Green Hill Lake. (Linda McHatten photo)
Top left: Dianne C is showing us arm exercises on one of our stationary bicycles. She would love a volunteer to assist her in getting to and from the bike and help with setup. Bottom left: P Knox will soon be 101, and is no stranger to fitness. He (and others) helped create our wellness centre, which is celebrating its first anniversary. Above left:
B demonstrates exercising on the stationary bike. She asks
feet on the pedals and with programming the display.
Hannah C walks with Bill H. Visits like this are re-
seniors’ mental
physical well-being. (Jane Jones photo)
School hosts unique event at the Woodstock Thunder Dome
WHS Unified Basketball Tourney spreads message of sportsmanship beyond scoreboard
By Ainslie MacInnis, Woodstock High School student reporter
Following the May Day celebrations, a dedicated team of volunteers and enthusiastic players took centre stage, organizing and hosting a unified basketball tournament at WHS that defied stereotypes and shattered barriers.
For these young athletes, every pass, every shot, and every block told a story of resilience, unwavering determination, and the transformative power of teamwork.
After the disappointing weather cancellation of their first tournament, the players’ spirits were soon lifted with the promise of a rescheduling in the Thunder Dome. However, the tournament was not just a
series of matches; it represented opportunity and unity for these basketball lovers.
Hundreds of volunteers, students, and community members came out to support the three unified teams in the inaugural Woodstock High School Unified Basketball Tournament.
For Olivia Bustard of WHS, the tournament was a success. Her enthusiasm for the event came from her passion for shooting. For others like William Ruganda from Leo Hayes, the joy lay simply in the opportunity to play some basketball.
The entire Thunder Dome erupted when athletes from all teams went in
for a shot, passed to their teammates, and dribbled the ball through their legs. Players celebrated proudly and without hesitancy. Some beat their chests with pride, while others flipped their hair and sashayed off the court after sinking a bucket like a pro.
“There is something for everyone, and just because you don’t play at what we would consider an elite level… you can still play and have fun,” says Scott Jones, the Leadership advisor and tournament organizer.
Jones took on the feat of hosting after the initial tournament’s cancellation.
With community members like Jones and those
who came to cheer, these athletes had the chance to play without limitations.
Abby Thornton, an athlete from Fredericton High School, eagerly expressed her anticipation for the tournament:
“We were so excited,” she said.
With several members of Fredericton High School’s unified team graduating this year, the opportunity for another tournament offered a renewed chance to compete.
For Thornton, the most memorable aspect of the day was not the wins or the losses. It was the incredible atmosphere in the Thunder Dome.
Although the three
teams all sported different jerseys, they were united in the one thing they all shared: a love for basketball. No matter the score,
the shots or the victories, the teams all finished the day with a stomach full of pizza and a heart full of new memories.
Nackawic preparing for bigger, better bass tournament
More entries, sponsors, and addition of youth derby highlights 2024 fishing event
By Jim Dumville - Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Anglers from across New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario and other areas are heading to the Big Axe Community on May 18 and 19 for the bigger and better Destination Nackawic Smallmouth Bass Open.
Speaking at the May 6 council meeting, NackawicMillville Mayor Tim Fox said the bass tournament committee is finalizing preparations for the exciting weekend event.
“There’s a lot of moving parts coming together in the next week and a half,” Fox told council.
He said an added highlight to this year’s event is the youth fishing derby scheduled for Sunday afternoon, May 19.
Fox added the 2024 tournament will see a significant increase in participants over the approximately 60 teams who competed last year.
“We have 76 signed up so far this year,” he said. “We expect to hit our target of 80.”
The Nackawic-Millville bass tournament lived up to its “Destination Nackawic” namesake last year. Pete Bowman and Angelo Viola
of the popular fishing show Fish’n Canada featured the tournament and the St. John River angling opportunities.
Fox added sponsorship for the bass tournament continues to grow, noting three boat manufacturers added potential additional prize money for any winners using their boat models.
The 2024 tournament prize pool will deliver $15,000 to the Destination Nackawic champion, with $7,500 for second, $5,000 for third, $3,000 for fourth, $2,000 for fifth, $1,000 for sixth, $750 for seventh, $700 for eighth, $650 for ninth and $600 for tenth. Anglers finishing 11th through 20th take home $400 each.
The daily lunker (largest bass of the day) can earn $1,250 for the winning team.
Deputy Mayor Greg MacFarlane congratulated Mayor Fox, Tournament Lead Organizer Tanya Fox and the committee for their success in making the Destination Nackawic tournament an economic and sporting force for the community and the province.
MacFarlane noted they achieved a significant part of the tournament’s goal of promoting sports fishing in the area.
The 2024 Destination Nackawic Smallmouth Bass Tournament begins with an opening reception on Friday, May 17, at the Big Axe Brewery. The event will provide anglers with a review of the rules and a draw of starting positions.
The fishing begins on Saturday, May 18, with boat inspection at 5 a.m., anglers’ breakfast at the Nackawic Lions Club at 6 p.m., and takeoff at 7 p.m. from the Big Axe Marina and Waterfront. The weighin for the day’s catch begins at 4 p.m.
Sunday’s action follows the same morning itinerary with inspection, breakfast, and 7 p.m. take off.
The Youth Fishing Derby Registration begins at noon, with the young anglers casting their lines between 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
Weigh-in for the bass teams begins at 4 p.m., with closing ceremonies and award presentations at 5 p.m.
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!
Riverside has many opportunities to come together and socialize!
Residents enjoy time in our dining room,with great food and great conversation. Call Carolyn today!
Nackawic-Millville’s deputy mayor and mayor welcome the hosts of Fish ‘n Canada to the 2023 Destination Nackawic Smallmouth Bass Open. From left, Deputy Mayor Greg MacFarlane, Mayor Tim Fox, Angelo Viola and Pete Bowman. (Jim Dumville photo)
Anglers will return to the Big Axe Marina and Nackawic Waterfront on May 18 and 19 for the second annual Destination Nackawic Smallmouth Bass Open. (Jim Dumville photo)
Woodstock High School athlete Olivia Bustard (right) defending the net against Fredericton High School player in the Thunder Dome. (Scott Jones photo)
