WE CAN HELP! Start YOUR journey to better hearing Book an appointment today! Woodstock,389 506.328.8723 Grand627 506.473.8702 www.ritceyhearing.com WE CAN HELP! Start YOUR journey to better hearing Book an appointment today! 389 Connell St, Suite 103 Woodstock, NB 506.328.8723 627 Madawaska Rd Grand Falls, NB 506.473.8702 www.ritceyhearing.com WE CAN HELP! Start YOUR journey to better hearing Book an appointment today! 389 Connell St, Suite 103 Woodstock, NB 506.328.8723 627 Madawaska Rd Grand Falls, NB 506.473.8702 www.ritceyhearing.com The Second Hand Shoppe1061 Route 103, Upper Woodstock, N.B. CELL: 506-323-0774 STORE: 506-328-9754 LOOKING TO BUY COIN, PAPER CURRENCY COLLECTIONS AND COMIC BOOK COLLECTIONS HOURS: Wednesdays 10 - 2, Thursdays and Fridays 9 - 5, Saturdays 9 - 2. Closed Sunday thru Tuesday, weekly. LOOKING TO BUY 1937 and/or 1935 $1,000 CANADIAN BILLS WILLING TO PAY CASH STARTING AT $4,000 LOOK WHAT JUST COUGHBUCKLEY’SARRIVED!SYRUPSINSIDE:WesternValleyFacesofBusiness!
See TOXICANT on page 2
‘Very suspicious’ blaze guts popular Florenceville-Bristol pub
He said how the fire was reported, including the information gathered from the fire dispatch in Freder icton and the RCMP PSAP (public safety answering point), added to the suspi cion.
The fire chief said insur ance adjusters would make the final determination, but it believes the building is a complete loss.
Journalism Initiative
Two safety officers and two men driessed in hazmat suits in Lake Brook after Wayne Narvey stopped the Noxfish II drip system. (Waybe Narvey photo)
By Theresa Blackburn and Jim Dumville, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Man exposed to poison, arrested after Noxfish II released in Miramichi Lake tributary
Fire Chief Andrew Cougle, speaking from the fire scene around 8:30 a.m. Saturday morning, de scribed the blaze as “very suspicious.”
Time running out for Working Group’s plan to eradicate smallmouth bass
By Jim Dumville – Local Reporter
Flames rise from A. C. Sharkey’s Pub and Grill in Florenceville-Bristol early Saturday morning, Sept. 10. (Brittany Shaw photo)
RIVER VALLEY SUN FREE DAILY NEWS ONLINE @ facebook.com/rivervalleysun LOCALLY OWNED, LOCALLY MANAGED, and PRINTED IN NEW BRUNSWICKFREE Volume 4 Issue 9 Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, 2022 See FIRE on page 2
A.C. Sharkey’s Bar & Grill owners plan to rebuild as soon as possible
is located at 2 Curtis Road in the Bristol area of the town.Florenceville-Bristol
“If it’s not a complete write-off, it is close,” Cou gle said.
The eradication plan, to be carried out under the supervision of The Working
Cougle said investiga tors from the Fire Marshal’s Office and A. C. Sharkey’s owner Lea Blakney were also on the scene Satur day morning. The RCMP attended the scene over night.
Aprovincially and feder ally approved plan to eradicate smallmouth bass in the Miramichi Lake wa tershed began secretly last week but was shut down by Indigenous protestors withinTheminutes.approved treatment plan for the lake and two of its tributaries include dump ing hundreds of gallons of a fish toxicant, Noxfish II, which contains Rotenone, which will kill all fish spe cies, including smallmouth
Fire investigators attend ed the scene at a popu lar Florenceville-Bristol res taurant and bar Saturday morning, Sept. 10, after a suspicious overnight blaze ripped through the struc ture.Members of the Florenceville-Bristol Fire Department, with mu tual aid from the Bath and Centreville fire depart ments, responded to the fire call at A. C. Sharkey’s Bar and Grill at approxi mately 1:30 a.m. Saturday. The restaurant and bar
bass in Miramichi Lake. The plan also consists of a five-year monitoring project and restocking of the water shed if the lake doesn’t re cover on its own within two years. The group only has until Sept. 30 to complete the plan, or it will have to be deferred for another year.
timates the men distributed nearly three gallons of the substance.“Icould smell it. In just a few minutes, there were at least 50 fish dead,” said Narvey. “It was not some thing I expected to see - so many fish dying so quickly.”
“They were all within a mile of each other,” he said.
Almost 10 months af ter Christine Pelleti er-Thibodeau was shot to death in Bulls Creek, south of Woodstock, her family is still waiting for answers and closure.
“I started to see fish jumping out of the water to escape,” he said. They were trying to escape the poison to survive. It was a horrific experience. That’s when knew I had to get to the poison and shut it off.”
Telecare 811
days, police tape sur rounded the Bulls Creek property, which housed a house surrounded by a vehicle salvage yard, as investigators scoured the area for evidence.
He said a fire truck driver drove past one of the fires to turn when he noticed the glow in the sky from another blaze.
TOXICANT
Walton said a Hartland fire truck remained on the scene at Giberson’s farm as the large hay bales continue to smoulder and
*Unauthorized bulk removal of the River Valley Sun from any public location, or tampering with our distribution, including unauthorized inserts, is prohibited.
Ouellette said as the active investigation moves forward, police cannot reveal informa tion.
Share all your birthday, new baby greetingsanniversary,announcements,orgraduation,foraslowas$20! Ask about our FREE milestone* ads! Call 506-324-5700 for more info!
back if there were any other problems.
While the pole barn strapped with steel has no power, he believes an ex tension cord he had run ning through it may have sparked the fire.
all crew members left the barn fire in Ashland. Some firefighters started to return home, some had just ar rived back at the fire hall, and some were still on the Ashland fire scene.
They said the ongoing investigation and lack of answers make it difficult for family members of the mother of three children to find closure.
A family member said they aren’t criticizing the efforts of the RCMP or its Major Crime Unit, but they urge anyone with information to contact po lice or Crimestoppers.
The long night of fire fighting began just before 8 p.m. Saturday with the barn blaze at Aubrey Gib erson’s farm in Ashland, a farming community west of Hartland.Giberson, a beef farmer who operates Giberson’s Meat Shop on Ashland Road, said he was in the barn when the fire started.
Narvey says he has no regrets.“Iwould do it all over again,” he said. “Poison has never been the answer, and this particular poison kills everything in the lake.
could for a few days. The fire chief noted the barn was not insured.
Hartland firefighters spend a weekend chasing blazes
RCMP, Woodstock area: 325-3000 (For immediate help: 1-888-506-7267)
Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868
Here are the numbers to call:
Hans Ouellette said the force understands the concerns of family, friends and the community as the investigation moves slow ly forward.“These types of inves tigations are quite com plex,” he Ouellettesaid.said inves tigators ask anyone with large or small information to call the Major Crimes Unit at 1-888-506-7267, the RCMP or Crimestop pers.
Animal Control
Most of the hay is wrapped and stored out side.
“I’ve always been a big de-escalator,” he said. “Whenever there has been an issue, I was always the one to stop it. I’ve always been to try to fix things. So in those situations, you have to remain calm. If you don’t, things get out of hand reallyNarveyquick.” calmly stops the drip line and removes a white container from a large rock in the brook. He esti mates nearly three gallons of the toxin were released before he arrived.
Tobique Valley Comm. Health 356-6600
When Narvey got to the spot where the two gentle men in hazmat suits stood by a large white container holding a dark liquid with a hose attached, he said he only had one choice.
He said A. C. Sharkey’s was the only eatery in the Bristol side of town and one of the only bars in the community.
Perth-Andover Mental Health 273-4701
By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Blakney said he could not immediately provide a timeline for reopening, noting many questions still need to be answered.
Land members say they witnessed more than 50 dead fish in the brook shortly after the applica tion and say none were smallmouth bass.
The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.
CHIMO 1-800-667-5005
“I was right there when it started,” Giberson said. “It started right there between the hay mow and where the cattle go.”
Over the next several
dents to jump from secondstorey
The fire chief described the situation as “devastat ing” for the business own ers, especially after two years of COVID.
The RCMP released few updates since the early days of the investi gation.While reluctant to go on record, members of Thibodeau’s family told the River Valley Sun that they are frustrated by the slow progress of the ho micide investigation.
Walton said needless fires like those in East Brighton deliver significant hits to Hartland’s financial resources.
The River Valley Sun is a free, editorially independent monthly newspaper serving the Upper St. John River Valley of New Brunswick. “Our mission is to share feature stories, a variety of viewpoints, and information about local community events, minor sports, and municipal news that isn’t always covered by mainstream media. We believe a community is stronger when people know and understand their neighbours.”
Nackawic Health Centre 575-6600
Cougle, who lives and works near the pub, said the loss would hit the Florenceville-Bristol and surrounding community
Shortly after Narvey re turns to the campsite, he’s arrested by a public safety officer.“They took me from the public docking area to Nap padogon Mill, where I had the pants cut off me, and my legs were washed with saline,” explained Narvey. He was transported by am bulance to the Dr. Everett Chalmers Hospital in Fred ericton, with the RCMP fol lowing in a car behind him.
McLellan BrandSource Home Furnishings, Woodstock, is a proud supporter of the River Valley Sun. www.mclellansfurniture.com Continued from page 1
On Nov. 14, 2021, the RCMP responded to re ports of a woman shot at 1428 Route 165.
Group, which consists of the Atlantic Salmon Fed eration (ASF), the North shore Micmac Council, and other organizations, has twice been halted by opponents. Cottage own ers, Indigenous mothers and grandmothers, and an Indigenous environmental group called Connecting to the Land have worked on stopping the distribution of the toxicant through legal proceedings and being on the water since the plan was made public two years ago.
York County Officer Randy Casey 459-7831
“The North Shore Mic mac Council Inc. is the project lead,” stated Nick Brown with DNR commu nications, “and can better speak to today’s operation.”
Blakney said staff locked up and left the building around 11:30 p.m. Friday. He said sometime around 1 a.m. Saturday, the alarm monitoring com pany called, advising him of glass breaking and other issues at the pub.
Woodstock Mental Health 325-4419
“When we got there, we were told to expect a 30-hour wait,” said Narvey. The officer spoke to supe riors because I’m sure he didn’t want to stay there that long, and was re leased on the condition that I am not allowed to be in a ten-kilometre radius of the lake.”Itwas 19 hours before Narvey got to see a doctor. He was sent home with two puffers and told to come
lation of the authorization. It’s just a really bad situa tion.”
When he puts the con tainer and hose in the ca noe, he tells a Public Safety
He said the building contained only some old hay and a little bit of grain.
officer he can retrieve the container at the camp site where he and other Connecting to the Land members and Indigenous mothers and grandmothers have been camping since mid-August.Theofficer tells him he’s technically ‘stealing’ but agrees to come by and pick up the items.
Woodstock police are investigating a Fri day night, Sept. 3, fire which destroyed a fourunit apartment building in Woodstock, forcing resi
“We are looking to re open,” he said.
He said the fire remains
Call 911 in an emergency!
RCMP/Woodstock Police 911 Upper River Valley Hospital 375-5900
Local Journalism Initiative Reporter: Jim Dumville, (506) 325-8523, jim@rivervalleysun.ca
Indigenous protestors from multiple First Nations communities have been camping at the lake since mid-August, hoping to stop the poisoning of the lake for a secondBeforeyear.noon on Thurs day, Sept. 8, two Public Safety officers and two un identified men in hazmat suits made their way down Lake Brook, starting at the opposite end, stopping just short of the fish fenc ing where the brook enters Miramichi Lake. Just before noon, they set up in an area where it would be difficult to spot if a protestor was ca
Dept. of Social Development 1-833-733-7835
“I could hear them talk ing, and was like okay, they are just around the bend,” said Narvey. “As I came around, my heart sank right out of my chest. There is a public safety guy I know, Ben O’Donnell. I met this guy before, spoke with him, and he seemed like a pretty good guy. He told me, look, you can’t come down past this rock because the application started. That’s when I knew I had to get down there.”
noeing or kayaking on the lake.Wayne Narvey of Es genoôpetitj (Burnt Church)
The River Valley Sun has reached out to the At lantic Salmon Federation, the RCMP, and the Depart ment of Natural Resources (DNR).ADNR spokesperson responded with a one-line statement.
“Please help us find who did this,” said the family member, “She left behind three wonderful little boys.”
Five fires, including four considered suspicious, keep HFD on the move
2 RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 3 Continued from page 1 FIRE
‘We know there are people out there with information’: RCMP Homicide remains under investigation 10 months later
“I knew had to get to the poison and shut it off.”
buildings.While
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.
Investigators search the Bulls Creek homicide scene on Nov. 15, 2021. (Stephen Chisholm photo)
By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
I just can’t see how that is evenLawyeracceptable?”Charles Bry ant represents Indigenous mothers and grandmoth ers. He says that dumping Noxfish II into Lake Brook violates the authorization initially awarded to the Working Group.
Vote Arthur Slipp for Woodstock Mayor Serving as Mayor since 2008 and on council since 2001, Arthur Slipp has a proven track record of service, engagement, and integrity. These challenging times require a mayor who knows the community, understands the issues, and can provide steady, full-time leadership in our region. On November 28, re-elect Arthur Slipp RECORD OF SERVICE * Currently serves as the Past President of the Union of Municipalities of New Brunswick (UMNB) * Served as UMNB President (3 yrs), 2nd Vice President (multiple yrs), Past President (4 yrs) * Member of UMNB Board of Directors (20 yrs) * Served with Board of Directors of Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM) (3 yrs) * Chair of FCM Atlantic Caucus (1 yr) * Member of FCM Atlantic Mayor’s Congress (3 yrs) * Western Valley Regional Service Commission 12 (Member of Finance and Policing Committees) * Carleton County Health Needs Assessment Committee (Horizon Health) * Western Valley Regional Resiliency Committee (Dept. Justice & Public Safety) * Minister’s Roundtable on Crime Prevention & Reduction (Dept. Justice & Public Safety) * Member, NB Police Act Review Working Group (Dept. Justice & Public Safety) * Municipal Orientation Workshop Planning Committee (Dept. of Environ. & Local Gov.) * Community Funding & Equalization Grant Review (Dept. Environ. & Local Gov.) * Lower St. John River Hydro Community Liaison Committee (NB Power)
Hôtel Dieu – Perth-Andover 273-7100
Rural Areas call the NBSPCA 1-877-722-1522
Woodstock Town Police: (506) 325-4601
“They’re just getting back in the swing of things, then this happens,” said Cougle.TheFlorenceville-Bristol
The fire chief believes the person or persons responsible for the East Brighton fires are likely “pretty local” and know the area.While no one lived in the structures, which included a trailer, Walton said they were still someone else’s property, and any fire is dangerous and a threat to other property.
“It is still open and very active, and I can’t divulge if we have any suspects, but I want to assure the public that this is still a priority for the RCMP.”
Before The Working Group treatment plan, the federal Department of Fisheries (DFO) and Oceans tried to control the smallmouth bass popula tion in the Miramichi wa tershed through barriers, beach seines, kyke nets, gill nets, and with backpack and boat electrofishing, with little luck.
IN CRISIS?
Cougle called the num ber of suspicious blazes a significant concern.
He said the fire de stroyed the pub’s outer deck and burned through windows to the interior. He said it also sustained ex tensive smoke and water damage.Cougle said the restau rant was closed and the building empty when the fire began. He said one firefighter went to the hos pital by ambulance to treat an injured leg.
At this point, Narvey said he wasn’t worried about the poison, even though he es
Hartland Fire Chief Mike Walton said the weekend proved a drain on his de partment’s firefighters and resources.
RCMP, Nackawic area, (Fredericton dispatch): 357-4300 (For immediate help: 1-888-506-1472)
“We know there are people out there with in formation,” he said.
Narvey jumped from the canoe and began to wade to where the men were. He already noticed a dead fish, and then he saw something that he says will stay with him forever.
Giberson said the only equipment in the building was a skid-steer loader. He managed to drive it to safety, but the blister on his hand attested to the ma chine’s heat when he got on to operate it.
Walton plans to investigate further, he agrees with Giberson that the extension cord was the most likely cause of the fire.
First Nation first heard voices before he and Peter Chisholm took their canoe to investigate.
Last year, The Work ing Group posted signs 48 hours before they tried to treat the lake. Earlier this summer, they gave cottage owners 24-hour notice of its plans to treat the lake on Aug. 10. Bryant said there wasn’t notice this time around.
River Valley Sun: Box 1000, Woodstock, NB, E7M 0E9, (506) 325-2552
While the wooden structure and the hay fu elled an intensive blaze, the Hartland Fire De partment, with mutual aid from Woodstock and Florenceville-Bristol, man aged to keep the fire from spreading to other farm
The following day, po lice confirmed the death of 35-year-old Thibodeau and reported the arrest and release of a 50-yearold man at the scene.
Doing some quick cal culations, the fire chief said the weekend fires cost the town of Hartland more than $12,000.
“They always seem to happen at 1:15 in the morning,” he said.
Law Enforcement
He said the department responded to the first East Brighton call at approxi mately 2:30 a.m. before
Aubrey Giberson looks over the smouldering remains of his barn Sunday morning Sept. 4. (Jim Dumville photo)
Calls to the North Shore Micmac Council were not returned. The Atlantic Salmon Federation was expected to issue a news release at press time.
He said the fires in nearby East Brighton, in volving four abandoned homes, appear the result of someone “on a path of destruction.”Waltonsaid the RCMP is investigating the East Brighton blazes, which be gan in close succession early Sunday morning.
fire is the latest in a series of suspicious blazes in the Carleton Country area.
Firefighters battle a fire at A. C. Sharkey’s Bar and Grill early Saturday morning, Sept. 10. (Submitted photo)
He praised the pub’s customer base, adding the owners and dedicated staff look forward to serving them again soon.
Publisher/Distribution Manager: Stephen Chisholm (506) 324-5711 www.rivervalleysun.ca ISSN # 2562-3893
Publisher/Managing Editor: Theresa Blackburn, (506) 324-5700, theresa@rivervalleysun.ca
After Hours Mobile Crisis 1-888-667-0444
Town of Woodstock Police (will dispatch help) 325-4601
under investigation, and the owners still must work out details with the busi ness’s insurance provid ers.
The Hartland Fire De partment’s busy weekend began on Friday evening, Sept. 2, when its lad der truck responded to an apartment building blaze in Woodstock.
Thewindows.following night the Hartland Fire Depart ment chased four sequen tial fires which destroyed abandoned buildings in nearby East Brighton.
hard.
Crimestoppers: 1-800-222-8477
Throughout the ordeal, Narvey is calm as he holds his cell phone, broadcast ing live on Facebook.
Abarn fire in Ashland and four suspicious blazes in East Brighton kept Hart land’s volunteer firefighters on the move overnight be tween Saturday and Sun day, Sept. 3 and 4.
Walton said whoever set the East Brighton fires was “staying just ahead of us.”
Speaking on behalf of the ownership group, Lea Blakney said they plan to rebuild the pub as soon as possible.
RCMP J Division me dia relations officer Cpl.
“I don’t really know how we could get here if every one is acting in good faith,” said Bryant when reached by telephone after Narvey’s arrest.“There is a high degree of disingenuousness. It ap pears that they took steps to hide their actions. In my reading, applying the sub stance to the river and the brook only would be in vio
Suspicious blaze destroys Broadway apartment building
Lawrence expressed pride in the solidly built fence which surrounded his property. He described the fence as a personal project from start to finish, begin
He said police could not offer more details at this time, except the ongoing investigation.Heurged anyone with information about the fire to contact the Woodstock Police Force or CrimeStop pers.McLellan said that with an interior attack not pos sible, fire crews worked externally to bring the blaze under control. He said that upon arriving on the scene, he immediately called the Hartland Fire Department to ask for its ladder truck.
Western Valley Faces of Business is a lo cal Rotary-created busi ness guide launching on Sept. 15. It is a Western Valley business direc tory, in both hard copy and online. It is a Rotary Club initiative coordinat ed by the Florenceville, Perth-Andover, and Woodstock chapters.
ness names.
Power attended the scene.
The Rotary Club committed to this be ing an entirely locally sourced project. All of the funds raised and spent will remain in the Western Valley. Western Valley Faces of Busi ness is being distributed in the September issue of the River Valley Sun.
Lawrence and Krista Rayner were watching a movie with two visiting nieces late Friday evening, Sept. 2, at their home on Broadway in Woodstock when the couple thought they heard sounds from outside, including calls for help.
He said homes on either side of the burning apart ment building sustained damage, including melted vinylMcLellansiding. said the
By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
“The sounds weren’t coming from the movie,” KristaLawrencesaid. said they looked outside to see con cerned neighbours gather ing around as flames and smoke rose from the apart ment building next to him.
With their home and belongings gone, Anthony said he and his wife end ed up couch surfing with friends after leaving the hospital. He said he doesn’t know where to turn.
area businesses like it has been in other towns, then it will become an annual hadBrennanfundraiser.”saidseniorsexpressedfrustra
“If this is a benefit to
The couple went to the hospital where they re mained until Monday.
By Matthew Flemming
The four key pillars of Rotary International are Health, Elderly, Youth and Environment.
Neighbour Lawrence Rayner surveys the remains of the home destroyed by the Sept. 2 blaze. The fire damaged Raynor’s fence and siding on his house. (Jim Dumville photo)
“That offer was de clined, which happens from time to time for a variety of reasons,” Bedell said.
Unable to break his fall, Lawrence said the man sustained what he believed were minor Lawrenceinjuries.then noticed the man’s wife Wendy, with her face blackened by the spreading smoke, put her head out the window.
In addition to the melted siding, the fire and fall ing structure damaged the portion of the handmade high wooden fence running along the property line be tween the two structures.
Anthony said the only option Red Cross volun teers offered was a taxi ride to a Fredericton shelter.
Rotary members con tacted businesses from Nackawic and Perth-Andover. Photog raphers captured the faces behind the busi
Woodstock’s Kelly Atherton of GraphXpert completed the design work.The book is orga nized into categories. For example, if someone needs a plumber, they would go to that section. There, readers can find the logo, links and con tact information for all related area facespersonalizedcompanies,withtheofthemembersof
“It was just glowing,” KristaLawrencesaid. said he rushed out, realizing people remained inside the burning building.
Anthony said he broke ribs.Wendy followed, but not before suffering burns to her face, eyes and parts of her body. The couple’s dog perished in the blaze.
“I told him to ‘hang and jump,’ said Lawrence.
Residents escape inferno, some jump from second-storey windows to safety
Rotary International has been heavily in volved in eradicating po lio globally.
Anthony, who has only one leg, said he didn’t have time to retrieve his artificial leg before he jumped.
Rotary Clubs launch ‘Western Valley Faces of Business
As she sat on her front step shortly before 8 a.m. Saturday morn ing, occasionally talking to neighbours or passersby, Krista said she still had not gone to bed.
He said the smoke and flames were already com ing through the only door of their apartment. It was to get out immediately or they wouldn’t get out.
Woodstock Fire Chief Harold McLellan commands the firefighting unit as the blaze consumes the apartment building Sept. 2, at 208 Broadway. (WFD photo)
With the flames rising from the back of the build ing, Lawrence said he kicked in a door at the front and yelled for everyone to get Lawrenceout. said he then saw Anthony MacKenzie looking out from a secondstorey window.
“It was nice for all lo cal Rotary clubs to col laborate on a project together,” said Brennan. “It will be a great fit for tourists and newcom ers. All business and available service will be organized into one book.”
Lawrence was able to help break the impact of the fall.
There are 209 busi nesses in the inaugural printing. The hard copy is 64 pages and in mag azineCarolformat.Brennan, a project coordinator and a member of the Florenceville Rotary Club, says clubs found inspiration in similar projects by the Rotary Clubs in Kentville and Truro, N.S., and Char lottetown, P.E.I.
As Lawrence immedi ately rushed to help, Krista said she called 911, al though she believed some body had already placed the emergency call.
power to their home im mediately after firefighters and the excavator operator eliminated the fire danger.
4 RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 5 FIND MORE NEWS ON THE RIVER VALLEY SUN FACEBOOK PAGE We publish news and features on our page every day. We cover a lot of issues and events. Here’s a list of SOME of the stories we couldn’t fit into this issue: To keep up-to-date on news throughout the valley, follow the River Valley Sun Facebook page. We post news stories, notices, and share information, daily! *NB’s Fiscal Update *Invasive Species meeting, North Lake *Second Wind Shows *Covered Bridge Seniors *Golf Course Damage *Rotaract Doggy Spa *Tobique FN Arrests *Meductic Parade *RC Tractor Pull *Frisbee Rob *Benton Sign *Soccer Corn Maze *Municipal*MunicipalCandidatesReform New storage units NOW AVAILABLE 10x10 & 10x20 NEWEST LOCATION! 135 Jones Street, Woodstock (506) 328-3761 www.cookrentals.ca First Choice LENDING Loans Financing Mortgages PAYMENTSEASY MONEYFAST We can help you with personal consolidationloans,loans,commercialloans,andmortgages! Get in touch today! www.fclending.ca loans@fclending.ca PHONE: (506) 324-9090 FAX: (506) 324-9191 662 Main St. Suite 1, Woodstock, NB Grand opening of Harrison McCain Pavilion at Beaverbrook Art Gallery Cutting the ribbon: Ann McCain Evans (far right) cuts the ribbon to officially open the pavilion that bears her father’s name. Looking on are Beaverbrook Art Gallery Board of Governors Chair Jamie Irving (far left), and Gallery Director Tom Smart. (Submitted photo) “I can’t count the number of people who have told me Harrison McCain stories over the years. Everybody in New Brunswick has one. He was a giant in Canadian business. He had a huge impact nationally and internationally, but he was one of us and he had a remarkable impact on the people of the province. This pavilion is the perfect way to honour his memory and his legacy in New Brunswick.
She said they had her nieces’ father pick up the stressed-out girls after the fire began Friday night. By Saturday morning, the Rayners’ focus switched to arranging repairs to their house.
flames travelled quickly through the older “balloon structure” building. After discussing the situation with the Fire Marshal’s Of fice and others, the chief said they called in an exca vator to demolish the build ing in another effort to keep the fire from spreading to nearbyMcLellanhomes. said the Woodstock Police Force, Ambulance N.B. and N.B.
The Harrison McCain Pavilion, across the street of our legislature, situated on the banks of the St. John River, is the gateway to one of the finest cultural collections in the country. Aside from his personal passion for the gallery, he has a remarkable legacy in this province. He should be remembered in the company of other great New Brunswick businessmen like James Dunn, Max Aitken, in an institution that they cared for passionately, as well. I want to thank Allison McCain, Ann McCain Evans, and all their extended families that are with us here today for making this possible. You are a remarkable family, and you’ve built a remarkable business, and on behalf of everyone in New Brunswick I want to thank you for this very special gift.”
This endeavour, ex plained Brennan, is a win-win-win for the com munity. It will benefit res idents, businesses, and the Rotary.
“It was sitting on the kitchen table, and I thought it was handy,” said Brennan. “It was nice to see the pictures of the owners and the employees from the businesses in the area. I thought this would be perfect for the busi nesses and the area residents.”InJanuary 2022, committees from the three local Rotary branches got together, and ad sales began.
Woodstock Fire Chief Harold McLellan said his department received the fire call at 10:57 p.m.
He said the ladder truck arrived quickly, allowing firefighters to pour water onto the top of the twoand-a-half-story building, limiting the fire’s spread to neighbouring buildings.
– Beaverbrook Art Gallery Chairman of the Board of Governors Jamie Irving in his address at the grand opening of the Harrison McCain Pavilion on Sept. 10.
He said the first firefight ers arrived on the scene to find flames rising from the back of the Woodstockstructure.Police Force Sgt. Jeff Matthews said po lice deem the fire as suspi cious.“We are investigating it right now as arson,” Mat thews told the River Valley Sun on Sept. 7.
that business’s staff and ownership.“Itanice personal touch to see everyone who works for the com pany you call,” said Brennan.Thefocus of Rotary Clubs is both local and international. Locally, they have offered sup port to local literacy programs, Sanctuary House, Valley Food Bank, recreation facili ties, the dialysis unit at the Upper River Valley Hospital, and commu nity parks.
Dan Bedell, communi cations director for Cana dian Red Cross — Atlantic Region, said volunteers offered assistance to four people from the burnt struc ture.He said they were of fered emergency lodging and payment cards to use for specific purchases such as clothing and food.
Bedell said the Red Cross team then advice vic tims about other avenues, such as referral to other community organizations and/or contacting Social Development.
Book popular fundraiser for service organizations
Lawrence Rayner said utility crews quickly restored
He gave her the same instructions. This time,
tion with today’s phone books. Not everyone chooses to list their ser vices; print is often small and poorly organized. The hard copy direc tory and online format should better meet ev eryone’s needs.
He explained the focus of Red Cross volunteers is to provide immediate help in the first few days after the disaster.
ning with cutting the cedar for the lumber.
Each year, National British Home Child Day shines a momentary light on a dark era in Ca nadian and British history that affected generations’ lives.On Wednesday, Sept. 28, at 7 p.m., the Hartland Baptist Church will host the Beacons of Light Me morial Service for British Home Children as one of the tributes across Cana da honouring the children sent from Britain to work as farm labourers and domestic servants.
Sentence pending for hammer assault
Hargrove was charged by RCMP with possession of stolen property (a 2003 Mitsubishi Eclipse), driv ing while prohibited, and stealing gas from the Irving Grab and Go in Waterville on Nov. 17, 2018. He was arrested on a warrant.
Mary and her sister Vio let were actual orphans, but only Mary was sent to Canada.Violet remained be hind at the Middlemore Home but eventually came to Canada through a program which helped young adults immigrate.
6 RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 7
Cowper was taken into custody by RCMP and re manded following the alter cation in Nackawic on April 28. He was charged with indictable aggravated as sault but pleaded guilty to the lesser included offense of assault causing bodily harm. He was also charged with breach of a release or der.
Judge Julian Dickson sentenced McGrath to six months in jail, minus time served, and placed him on probation for 12 months. He was also ordered to attend counselling for drug addic tion, mental health and an ger management. McGrath must also register for the federal DNA database.
At the time of the inci dent, Cowper was among two groups of young people involved in a verbal con frontation across the street from the Nackawic Elemen tary School. Cowper went to a truck, picked up the hammer, and struck the vic tim, who fell to the ground and began having convul sions. He was rushed to the hospital and treated for a concussion.CrownProsecutor Rod ney Jordan argued Cow per deserved an 18-month jail sentence, minus time served, as well as proba tion, noting the victim could have easily been killed.
“Wayne and Merlin have always been very involved and still are,”
were called were among the first to volunteer. Nor ma said more than 1,100 paid the ultimate sacri fice.
Some arrived in Can ada as toddlers, treated as orphans, although that was not always an accu rate
Ramone An thony Burrell, 30, of Florenceville-Bristol, told the court he was firing his lawyer and he wanted to be released from custody so he could attend family court proceedings coming up next week.
She’s made it her goal to find the answers her family had sought for al most a century.
These pages contain some of the court coverage we provide for the community. Find all court stories on our Facebook page.
Travis Terrance McDou gall, 31, of Perth-Andover, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Sept. 9 for a bail hearing. He waived his bail and re turns to court in custody for plea by video on Sept. 14 at 9:30 a.m.
After combined 132 years, Wayne McCallum and Merlin Gibson continue to serve
Defence Counsel T.J. Burke said, at the time of the attack, Cowper was struggling with a death in the family. He also suffers from attention deficit hyper activity disorder and alcohol and drug abuse. Burke rec ommended time served for
Tompkins said both men are always active in any ongoing project they are taking part in, includ ing the Old Home Week canteen and the Salva tion Army Kettle drive.
On Thursday, his mother wept as she described the incidents, saying McGrath suffers from mental health issues and drug addiction that led him to violence. He had a limited prior criminal record.
The Wayne McCal lum Y’s Men Bursary, designated for students who participated in high school sports, recogniz es his 68 years of ser vice in the club.
“I’m asking you to give me bail so I can deal with that,” Burrell said when ap peared in provincial court for plea on Sept. 7.
Burrell asked the judge to consider the cost of hav ing Clements travel again from Saint John to attend court in Woodstock, not ing he had already told the lawyer he was dismissed. Judge McLean explained Clements must be in court in person to officially relin quish the file.
McKinneya.m. was charged by Woodstock Police with breaching his release order on Aug. 23. He was held for a bail hearing on Aug. 25
Club President Ivan Tompkins said they re ceived a request from the Maritime Y’s Men Council to honour members with long service theirtionallyalsoMcCallumrecords.andGibsonhavebeeninternarecognized,withnamesetchedin
Merlin Gibson, left, and Wayne McCallum hold the Cer tificates of Dedication from Maritimes Region Y Service Clubs in recognition to the more than 60 years each ser vied with the Woodstock Y’s Men Club. (Ivan Tompkins photo)
first and third Mondays of each month, between September and June.
causing property dam age, concerning an inci dent on March 29, 2021, in Perth-Andover; assault on a female victim, utter ing threats, resisting arrest, assaulting a police officer, and two counts of breach of an undertaking in con nection with another inci dent on Aug. 13, 2021, in Perth-Andover.
Church hosting memorial service, illuminating local landmarks to shine light on forgotten history
“This is a great oppor tunity to get involved in a club that supports the community,” said Tomp kins. “It’s not something that requires a lot of time, but there are projects that come up.”
She said her grand father Bert and his twin brother Ted arrived in Canada as children in 1912. One ended up on a farm in Carlisle and the other in Howard Brook.
Fisher Public Library in Woodstock will display relevant books, while the Blink Box Sign across from Woodstock High School will showcase a message marking British Home Child Day.
McGrath was denied bail following a hearing on June 2. He was arrested and charged with being at large on a release order in connection with a curfew breach on May 24 at Plas ter Rock. He pleaded guilty to thatThreeoffence.additional as sault charges involving his mother were also laid in connection with an April 3 incident in Plaster Rock. He pleaded guilty to two of those charges. The remain ing charge was withdrawn by the McGrathcrown. also pleaded guilty to breach of an un dertaking by failing to com ply with a no contact order, breach of probation and unlawful entry at a dwelling house on April 21 in Plaster Rock.
Watson is also facing other charges related to a shooting incident on the
“He doesn’t care,” Judge McLean said. “He drives when he wants and does what he wants.”
“No one is trying to force feed you a lawyer,” said McLean. “But it is in your best interest to have repre sentation.”Thejudge adjourned the matter for plea until Sept. 15 at 10:30 a.m. Burrell will re turn to court in custody with his lawyer who can then ask to be removed as solici tor of record. Clements at tended the proceedings on Wednesday via teleconfer ence and acknowledged he was leaving the case.
Sentenced to six months in jail
and remanded to provincial jail.McKinney also ap peared in custody for a bail hearing on Aug. 5 and was released with strict condi tions, including house ar rest and the wearing of an electronic monitoring de vice attached to his ankle, but was brought back into custody.Hewill also appear in court on Sept. 20 to an swer 12 other charges laid by RCMP. McKinney was charged concerning a po lice chase between Benton and Debec on July 27.
Somedescription.estimates sug
Bert and Ted had no contact with each other until the years of inden tured labour ended.
By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
gest Home Children descendants represent almost 10 per cent of Canada’s population.
Riley Cowper, 18, of Limestone, appeared for sentencing in Fredericton Provincial Court in custody by video on Sept. 7, after pleading guilty to striking a 17-year-old on the head with a ball-peen hammer.
See COURT on pg. 9
She said her Uncle Ted’s grandson, wife and children will perform a drama depicting life as a British Home Child during the memorial service.
COURT NEWS
Billie Jean Kinney, 26, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court in custody by video for a bail hearing on Sept. 9. She waived her bail and returns to court in custody for plea by video on Sept. 20 at 11:30 a.m.
During that time, she said, Bert kept an eye
ing on Aug. 17 and was released with conditions, including the wearing of an electronic ankle bracelet attached to his ankle. He returns to court for plea on Sept. 13 at 9:30 a.m.
Any student meeting the criteria in academic studies but not involved in sports is eligible for the Merlin Gibson Y’s Men Bursary. Gibson’s name is attached to the prize following his 64 years of service.Both bursaries are for graduating students who intend to further their education beyond high school but haven’t won any other awards.
“Even after they fin ished their terms of in denture and started to build a new life in their adopted homeland, the prejudice against Home Children continued to fol low them,” she explained.
Dad’s parents were Brit ish Home Children.”
By Judy Cole-Underhill
“You had a bail hearing and your bail was denied,” answered Associate Chief Judge Brian C. McLean. “That’s the end of the dis cussion.”Burrell advised the court he was firing his defence lawyer, Neil Clements of Saint John. The accused said he planned to repre sent himself on a raft of charges laid against him by Woodstock Police and RCMP.Judge McLean told the accused it was “almost al ways a bad idea” to come to court without legal coun sel.
Matthew McGrath, 29, of Plaster Rock, appeared in provincial court in custo dy on Aug. 18 and changed his plea to guilty on several charges laid by RCMP.
Two years in prison for Neqotkuk man
Woodstock Police charged him with criminal harassment, intimidation, and uttering threats to ob struct justice related to in cidents between July 6, 2021, and May 1, 2022.
“It’s no wonder that they rarely spoke about their childhood or the families they left behind in Brit ain.”During the First World War, ‘Home Boys’ as they
Cowper is also fac ing another charge in Woodstock Provincial Court. On Aug. 12, he ap peared in court in custody by video and pleaded not guilty to assault. His trial was set for April 13, 2023, at 9:30 a.m.
“I’m happy to say that many of those questions have been answered through my research, which even revealed the identity of my unknown great-grandfather from England,” Cook said. “Along the way, I have been able to encourage and assist others who have embarked on a sim ilar journey to find their roots.”
his Judgeclient. Cameron Gunn reserved his decision on sentence until Sept. 14.
“Get the help you need to become a productive member of society,” Judge Dickson told the accused.
Burrell also faces more charges of criminal harass
Kinney was arrested on a warrant after she failed to appear in provincial court on Aug. 30 to answer two charges laid by Woodstock Police.On July 21, Kinney was arrested on a warrant for failing to appear in court and was released with con ditions.She was charged by Woodstock Police with im proper storage of a firearm and possession of a firearm without a license, concern ing an incident on July 17, 2020. Kinney is facing more charges in Fredericton for an incident on May 25. Beechwood man remains in custody Clay Jeffrey Hargrove, 28, of Beechwood, ap peared in provincial court in custody by video on Sept. 9 for a bail hearing. He waived his bail and re turns to court in custody for plea by video on Sept. 27 at 11:15 a.m.
Burrell was taken into custody without incident by Hamilton Regional Po lice officers after two arrest warrants were issued when Burrell failed to appear in court to face charges on two separate occasions. He returned to Woodstock in custody.
James Wendell Moulton, 31, of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation), ap peared in provincial court in custody on Aug. 17 and was sentenced to two years in federal prison on several
ment, intimidation, and ut tering threats to obstruct justice related to incidents between May 4 and May 16 of this year in Woodstock. The RCMP also laid a new charge of breach of an un dertaking concerning an in cident on April 29, 2022, in Florenceville-Bristol.Burrellalsofaces charg es of indictable assault and assault while threatening to use a weapon. Those charges were laid by RCMP and stem from incidents in Florenceville-Bristol be tween Jan. 1, 2020, and April 14, 2021. He pleaded not guilty to these offences at an earlier court appear ance.
In custody on 11 charges
The Y’s Men Club, which has been locally established for 77 years, is located at 145 Connell Park Road.
In addition to the memorial service, local landmarks will join na tional Canada landmarks as they are illuminated with red, white and blue lights to raise awareness of the little-known chap ter in Canadian history. Nationally, the lights will shine on such iconic sites as Niagara Falls, the CN Tower and the Digby Lighthouse. Lo cally, lights will illuminate Woodstock’s Connell House and Hartland’s town hall and Dr. Walter Chestnut Library. Additionally, the L.P.
A roundup of cases processed through Woodstock Provincial Court
Bert and Mary (Pitt) Davis. (Photo courtesy of Norma Da vis Cook)
Cowper was charged by RCMP with assault with a weapon (a hammer and tire iron) involving another man, stemming from an incident on March 23 near Limestone.
Parker was charged with breach of a release order and committing mis chief on Aug. 3. He was also charged by RCMP with two counts of assault with a weapon, uttering threats, carrying a firearm in a careless manner, pos session of a firearm with out a licence and improper storage of a firearm, con cerning an incident on July 14; assault for another in cident on July 13; and as sault and uttering threats for an incident on July 12. The incidents occurred in Florenceville-Bristol and involve the same female victim. A plea date for those charges was first set for Aug. 30.
AYR MOTOR EXPRESS “The best is least we can do !” Visit our NEW website! Visit our new website at ayrmotor.ca to learn about our business and our people. Please visit our CAREER pages to see what new opportunity could be waiting for you!
said Tompkins. “We re ally appreciate all they have done over the years, and it’s nice for them to be ItopenhasCurrently,recognized.”theclubtenmembersandistonewmembers.holdsmeetingsonthe
Beacons of Light shine on stories of British Home Children
eight years ago.
Because of the turmoil of their childhood, which often included isolation and harsh treatment, Cook explained many British Home Children grew up with feelings of inferiority.
Generations of Home Children’s descendants knew little about their an cestry.“It has only been in recent years that descen dants have been able to trace their family trees and discover the untold stories of their British Home Child ancestors,” said Cook. “This has been my personal proj ect over the past eight years since both of my
Newly created WHS bursary honours long-serving Y’s Men
charges laid by RCMP. Moulton pleaded guilty to break and enter at a ga rage, assault with a weapon (bear mace), and posses sion of a prohibited weapon concerning an incident on Feb. 19 at Neqotkuk. He also entered guilty pleas to two charges of break and enter at the family services office and the community’s diversion centre on March 14, as well as possession of break-in tools, and breach of probation.Inaddition, Moulton pleaded guilty to break and enter at Carl’s Electric in Aroostook and breach of probation on March 3; and guilty to unlawfully enter ing a dwelling house for an incident on July 9, 2021, at Neqotkuk.
Remanded for plea
Florenceville-Bristol man released with conditions Austin William Parker, 23, of inappearedFlorenceville-Bristol,inprovincialcourtcustodyforabailhear
Crown Prosecutor Pat rick Wilbur told the court ef forts had been made to try and reach a resolution to move the case forward, but there had been little move ment since Burrell’s last court appearance on Aug. 10. Burrell was denied bail and remanded on June 2.
Carleton County resi dent Norma Davis Cook is one of those descen dants. Her grandparents, Bert and Mary (Pitt) Da vis, were both British Home Children.
McDougall was charged with two counts of assault on two female victims, two counts of uttering threats, and committing mischief
He was charged by RCMP with flight from po lice, dangerous driving, re sisting arrest, assaulting a police officer, two counts of possession of stolen prop erty, two counts of theft of a motor vehicle, committing mischief causing property damage, break and enter at the Paintball Club on Du gan Road, theft of alcohol from the Debec Store, and assaulting an on-duty po liceMcKinneydog. was also charged with possession of stolen property, theft, and break and enter at a garage in Debec on May 10.
By Matthew Flemming
She knew little about their story until she began researching the history of her grandparents and other children like them
Between 1869 and 1948, authorities in Brit ain shipped 100,000 children, from toddlers to teens, across the Atlantic Ocean to serve as inden tured workers on Canadi an farms and elsewhere.
the Golden Book at the club’s international head office in Switzerland.
on Mary. They eventually married.“Inlater years, Mary was nearly blind, and it was touching to see how Bert looked after her,” NormaCookrecalled.saidher grand father lived to 101.
“They didn’t talk about it very often,” Cook said.
Her grandmother Mary Pitt arrived on the same farm as Bert as a toddler.
“They couldn’t handle being separated after that,” Cook said.
In custody awaiting plea Joseph Lorne McKin ney, 34, of Dugan Road, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Sept. 6 to answer charges laid by Woodstock Police. He returns to court for plea by video on Sept. 20 at 11:30
T he primary purpose of the Woodstock Y’s Men Club is to address the greatest needs in the community.InJune, the longstanding club honoured two members for more than 60 years of service to the community each. The club permanently attached the names of Wayne McCallum and Merlin Gibson to bursa ries for Woodstock High School graduates.
An Elmwood man was sentenced Aug. 23 to a to tal of 12 months in provin cial jail in relation to a police chase outside Woodstock lastBradleyyear. Ryan Watson, 37, was found guilty after trial on four charges laid by RCMP. He was charged with failing to stop for police, dangerous driving, driv ing while prohibited, and committing mischief caus ing property damage to a police vehicle following an incident in Speerville and Hawkshaw on March 27, 2021.In addition to jail time, Associate Chief Judge Bri an C. McLean also prohib ited Watson from driving for threeMcLeanyears. said the ac cused had a prior criminal record riddled with driving offences, including six pre vious convictions for driv ing while prohibited. The court heard Watson served shorter jail sentences in the past, but the judge said this had no effect on his behaviour. During the latest incident, Watson took delib erate action to ram a police cruiser to avoid being ap prehended.
“We wanted to do something at a club level, too,” said Tompkins. “We have been providing an annual bursary for quite some time to the high school. We decided to create a second bursary and attach their names to each one. It’s our club’s way of applauding their longevity.”
Cook said her grand father continued to work on the farm as a hired hand for six years after his indentured labour re quirements ended.
Burrell fires lawyer, asks for release
He failed to appear in court on the charges on Jan. 18, leading to a war rant and subsequent ar rest. He waived his bail and remained in custody. The crown withdrew some of the charges before sen tencing was imposed. Elmwood man sentenced to 12 months
Lovely is facing drug and firearm charges laid by Woodstock Police. He returns to court for plea on Sept. 13 at 11:15 a.m. He was charged with posses sion of methamphetamine and possession of cocaine, both for the purpose of traf ficking, operating a motor vehicle knowing it carried prohibited firearms (a modi fied 12-gauge shotgun and a 12-gauge pistol grip shot gun), driving while suspend ed, possession of a firearm without a license, and pos session of a firearm with the serial number removed, concerning an incident on July 26 in Woodstock.
The matter was adjourned until Sept. 27 at 11 a.m. to allow him more time to se cure legal counsel.
He returns to court for plea on Sept. 13 at 9:30 a.m.
Baker was denied bail and remanded to provin cial jail when he appeared in provincial court in cus tody by video on Sept. 2. He was charged by RCMP with refusing a breathalyzer
Daniel Jr. Francis, 30, of Neqotkuk (Tobique First Nation), appeared in pro vincial court in custody by video on Aug. 23, but the matter was adjourned for plea until Sept. 20 at 11:15 a.m.Francis was denied bail and remanded to provin cial jail on six charges laid by RCMP. He was charged with assault with a weapon (a guitar) involving a male victim, theft of a guitar, re sisting arrest, possession of a prohibited weapon (bear spray), possession of a pro hibited weapon while pro hibited from having it, and carrying a concealed weap on (bear spray) in connec tion with an incident on July 11 at Neqotkuk.
Brian Trevor Fox, 45, of Meductic, will appear for sentencing in provin cial court on Dec. 1 at 1:30 p.m. on one charge laid by RCMP. He appeared in court on Aug. 25 and the matter was adjourned to the new date.
COURT cont’d
highway near Meductic in January. He was charged with assaulting Brandon Godsoe with a weapon (a 2021 Jeep Grand Chero kee), committing mischief causing property damage over $5,000 to a vehicle (a 2010 Mazda 6), operation of a motor vehicle while prohibited, and dangerous operation of a motor ve hicle. He pleaded not guilty and his trial was set for Nov. 9-10 at 9:30 a.m.
Sentencing rescheduled for Meductic man
8 RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 9
Joel Vincent Baker, 38, of Oakland, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Sept. 6 for plea on charges laid by RCMP. The matter was adjourned until Sept. 20 at 1:30 p.m. at the request of his defence counsel.
Jesse James Lovely, 35, of Williamstown, was denied bail and remanded to provincial jail when he appeared in court in custo dy by video on Aug. 30 for a decision on his release.
The charges were laid after Woodstock Police conducted a traffic stop
On Aug. 19, police ex ecuted a search warrant on the impounded vehicle seized on July 26 and a quantity of drugs was found in the car. Lovely was ar rested and taken back into custody.
incident in Woodstock on Jan. 4. He pleaded guilty to theseRCMPoffences.also charged him with dangerous driving, flight from police, theft of a motor vehicle, possession of instruments for the pur pose of committing theft, and breach of an undertak ing in connection with other incidents in Jacksonville and Holmesville on Sept. 4, 2021. He pleaded guilty to the flight charge, theft of the vehicle, and breaching an undertaking. The crown withdrew the two remaining charges.
Kilcollins was also charged with theft from Beaver Construction in Woodstock on April 21, possession of stolen prop erty (a 2006 Buick), and driving while suspended in connection with an incident on June 20 in Woodstock.
Sentencing set for Kirkland man
Burtt appeared in court in custody on Aug. 5 and was released with condi tions, including a curfew from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., and the wearing of an electronic monitoring device attached to his ankle. He was resid ing at a residence in Wind sor.
Fox pleaded guilty to us ing 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.Heappeared for sen tencing in July but became too stressed to proceed after hearing graphic evi dence presented by the
On May 24, Burtt also appeared in court in cus tody and was released with conditions. RCMP charged him with fleeing police, breach of probation, and two counts of breach of an undertaking for another in cident. He will also stand trial on these charges on March 2, 2023.
Henry appeared in court in custody on Jan. 5 and was remanded to provincial jail for a bail hearing on Jan. 7. He was released from custody with conditions.
He was also charged by RCMP with break and en ter and theft of tools in con nection with an incident at a farm shop in Oakland on June 25.
Connell Ross McLean, 26, of Centreville, appeared in provincial court in custo dy by video on Sept. 6 and returns to court for plea on Sept. 20 at 11:30 a.m. He was taken into custody on Aug. 23 for breaching his release order and remand ed to provincial jail.
Peter Johnston, 29, of Newburg, will appear for sentencing in provincial court on Sept. 23 at 1:30 p.m. after changing his plea to guilty on four of six charg es laid by JohnstonRCMP.was charged with possessing a weapon (a shank) dangerous to the public peace, two counts of assault with a weapon (one being a 1993 Chevy C10 and the other a hammer) against Benjamin Foster, possession of stolen prop erty (a 1993 Chevy C10), dangerous driving, and driving while suspended in connection with an inci dent in Debec on April 26. He was denied bail and re manded.
on a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed along Main Street in downtown Woodstock during the early morning hours of July 26.
He was charged by Woodstock Police with two counts of breaching an undertaking on Aug. 2 and Aug. 10 in Woodstock.
Burtt was remanded to provincial jail on Aug. 16 following a bail hearing.
Following the stop, the police observed and seized two loaded shotguns from inside the vehicle and ar rested the car’s lone occu pant without incident.
Jesse Thomas Henry, 25, of Kirkland, appeared in provincial court on Aug. 23 and changed his plea to guilty on several charg es laid by RCMP and Woodstock Police. He re turns to court for sentencing on Nov. 22 at 1:30 p.m.
Thank you for helping DARI DELITE celebrate 75 years ! Our new manager, Misty Lawson, and her team should be very proud of the atmosphere of participation they created. It’s been a season of parades, activities, music, and of course, ice cream. A huge thank you to the musicians and volunteers who helped Dari Delite staff raise funds for the Multicultural Association! Manulife Securities Incorporated • 505 Main Street, Woodstock • 328-8889 gregmacpherson.ca/testimonials Greg MacPherson Senior Financial Advisor BBA,CFP, FMA,FCSI,CPCA, RIAC It’s crucial that your Financial Advisor has adequate experience and qualifications, but at the end of the day the advisor-client relationship comes down to trust. Now in its 27th year, Greg MacPherson’s financial practice has received awards and recognition for its growth, achieved primarily through word-of-mouth and referrals. Doing that in a small community is nearly impossible if you aren’t doing a good job for clients in the long run. To view what some of Greg’s clients and peers have said, visit:
Lovely first appeared in court in custody on July 27.
He was charged by Woodstock Police with flight from police, driving while suspended, and breach of release order following an
crown. The crown evidence included transcripts of sev eral sexually explicit mes sages and photos alleg edly exchanged between Fox and the victim during online conversations on Facebook.
Williamstown man de nied bail
Released with conditions
Gary Frederick Kilcol lins, 46, of Woodstock, ap peared in provincial court in custody on Aug. 29 for a bail hearing and was released with conditions, includ ing wearing an electronic monitoring device attached to his ankle. Kilcollins must also maintain a curfew from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. He is re siding at an apartment in Woodstock.
Watson is facing two more trafficking charges and breach of an undertak ing in relation to the Aug. 19, 2021 search warrant at his residence in Elmwood. York is facing charges for firearms offences concern ing the same incident. They will both stand trial on these charges on Sept. 16 at 9:30 a.m.
In custody awaiting plea Silas Robert Burtt, 21, of Hartland, appeared in provincial court in custody by video on Sept. 6 to enter a plea on another charge of breaching his release order.
Centreville man remains in custody
McLean first appeared in custody by video on June 30 to answer theft charges laid by RCMP. He was released with condi tions, including wearing an electronic monitoring de vice attached to his ankle and house arrest with a night curfew. He was then charged with committing mischief by cutting off his ankle bracelet on Aug. 6 and flight from police and dangerous driving on Aug. 14 near Centreville.
He was released with con ditions, including a curfew from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., ex cluding night shifts for work.
Watson was also charged with two counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking in cocaine and methamphetamine, pos session of a press to be used in trafficking cocaine, possession of unlicensed firearms, and unsafe stor age of firearms in relation to an incident in Wilmot on Jan. 29, 2021. A co-ac cused, Trevor York, is also facing similar charges con cerning the same incident. They will both stand trial on these charges on Oct. 1920 at 9:30 a.m.
demand, dangerous driv ing, resisting arrest, and assaulting a police officer in connection with an incident on Aug. 30 near Waterville. Sentencing set for Newburg man
McLean was also charged with two counts of posses sion of stolen property ( a 2019 Polaris Ranger Sideby-Side, and a Milwaukee Sawzall), and possession of break-in tools (a blow torch, saw, and bolt cut ters).
Hickens pleaded guilty to uttering threats and dan gerous driving on July 27, 2020, in Woodstock; breach of an undertaking on Oct. 6, 2020, in Woodstock; resist ing arrest on Oct. 9, 2020, in Woodstock; flight from police and driving while sus pended on Dec. 8, 2020, at Avondale; flight from po lice and driving while sus pended on Dec. 8, 2020, in Woodstock; and breach of a release order on Sept. 17, 2021, in AssociateWoodstock.Chief Judge Brian C. McLean also placed him on probation for 12 months. The accused had no prior criminal re cord. Hickens appeared in court in custody on Dec. 21, 2021, and was released on conditions. He had been in custody since September following his bail hearing. Remanded to jail, await ing plea
Neqotkuk man awaiting plea
On Aug. 11, he appeared in court and pleaded not guilty to two charges laid by Woodstock Police. A trial date was set for March 2, 2023, at 1:30 p.m. He was charged with flight from po lice and breach of a release order, stemming from an other incident on Aug. 2 in Woodstock.
Defence Counsel Rob ert Digdon said his client had reviewed the tran scripts and acknowledged the conversations. Judge Julian Dickson then set a new date for sentencing. Sentenced to time served Matthew Hickens, 36, of Woodstock, appeared in provincial court on Aug. 25 and was sentenced to 135 days in jail or time served on several charges laid by RCMP and Woodstock Po lice.
A goal of the project is to try to get a sense of how many Indigenous athletes participate in sports throughout the country.
“I so appreciate the patience of the people of Florenceville-Bristol and surrounds with regard to this file,” she said in an email to River Valley Sun.
traffic for nearly two years after engineers discov ered structural deficien
Anew Indigenous sports research proj ect that could potentially influence Sport Cana da decisions has been launched.
Province committed to reopening Old Florenceville Bridge
Keepness is a lecturer in Indigenous studies at First Nations University of Canada.
Non-profit ‘Urban/Rural Rides’ contracted to service region in the future
Pictou Lee said her company’s research work will include host ing four virtual sharing circles in September.
British Columbia’s In digenous Sport, Physi cal Activity & Recreation Council.Kovach is an expert in Indigenous research methodologies and a professor at the Univer sity of British Columbia.
“We have identified a list of individuals for each group,” Pictou Lee said.
The minister said she stood with Florenceville-Bristol coun cil and area residents as they pleaded their case and explained the value of the bridge to people liv ing in the area.
The others on the ad visory group are Amanda Larocque, Wally Samuel, Dr. Margaret Kovach, Shane Keepness and Dr. LynnLarocqueLavallee.is the direc tor of health and social services at Gesgapegiag Health & Community Services in Quebec.
By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
L ow-income residents without transporta tion who live in Regional Service Commission 12 (RSC 12) will soon have travel nicipalitieswhichTheoptions.commission,encompassesmufromPlaster
“He’s been using us for a long time and has a lot of health issues. He said it makes him forget his pain for the time he’s in the vehicle. He has a friendly conversation. He’s engaged in encour aging conversation. It’s not just a ride sometimes. It’s connecting with your community. It’s reduc ing isolation. It’s letting people know they matter. These are important hu man connections.”
cies.Since its closure, town officials and residents have pushed for answers from the Department of Transportation and Infra structure. While Johnson delivered the provincial government’s commit ment to reopen the bridge, she said the long-term plan requires more study.
Rock to North Lake, will contract the services of Urban/Rural Rides, de spite some objections from Perth-Andover May or Marianne Urban/RuralBell.Rides is a non-profit organization that currently operates a low-income ride service for both the Capital Re gion and Southeast Re gion’s Service Commis sions.
This year, money from the provincial Econom ic and Social Inclusion Corporation (ESIC) and some surplus transpor tation funds that weren’t used by the local Com munity Inclusion network
Perth-Andover Mayor Marianne Bell expressed concern about future funding requirements.
All of the sharing cir cles will be two hours in length.
Research project aims to improve Indigenous sport in Canada
“If this becomes suc cessful, there will be more travel, and the RSC will have to pay more. I’m concerned about those costs rising,” said “TransportationBell. al ways requires subsidy,” explained Taylor. “We are trying to reach those who don’t have access. We are a registered charity, and we’ve covered some of that gap expense through companies, in dividuals, donations, etc.
RSC 12 to offer low-income transportation option
leaders in the country who are keen to change the sports realm in Can ada.The resulting report, titled the Aboriginal Sport Circle: Indigenous Re search Initiative, is not currently available to the public.
The next session, which will be held on Sept. 8, will feature reps from non-Indigenous sports groups throughout the country.
Pictou Lee said proj ect organizers might have to conduct some one-on-one interviews with some participants if they are unable to attend one of the virtual ses sions.Once all available data has been compiled, a report will then be writ ten, with recommenda tions, and then it will be passed on to Sport Can ada.“The report will be de livered to Sport Canada by December,” Pictou Lee said.
bers.She said the town and stakeholders asked for a more detailed project costing.“The DTI team have made a fulsome examina tion of the structure from the top, the deck above the water and below the surface,” Johnson said.
MLA Margaret Johnson says the government is com mitted to reopening the Old Florenceville Bridge. (Jim Dumville photo)
And Lavallee is the strategic lead in Indig enous resurgence for the Faculty of Community Services at Toronto Met ropolitan University.
Johnson also noted that DTI is now looking at creating a funding model to accommodate the cost.
(From Windspeaker.com)
The first sharing cir cle, which will be held on Sept. 6, will include officials from Indigenous sports organizations across Canada.
MLA says decision on type of repairs and funding plan needed before work can begin
The provincial govern ment is committed to saving the historic Old Florenceville Bridge, but the timing and details re mainNewunknown.Brunswick Agri culture, Aquaculture and Fisheries Minister and Carleton-Victoria MLA Margaret Johnson deliv ered that commitment to town officials and resi dents in August.
sists of nine individuals, including Forsyth, the current vice-president of the Aboriginal Sport Circle.
10 RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 11 TAKONUTOMAKONUWAL (Maliseetwordmeaning‘their stories’) Indigenous News and Features Sponsored by Woodstock First Nation ’ 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! WFN Healthy Hampers THIS IS FOR WOODSTOCK FIRST NATION MEMBERS ONLY Woodstock’s Wonder Muffler is a proud supporter community journalism and the River Valley Sun. www.wondermuffler.ca Woodstock, NB (506) www.coreyhyundai.ca328-0096 Stop in to speak with our experienced sales people today! PROUDLY SERVING YOUR COMMUNITY! www.coreyhyundai.caWE’VEGOTYOURNEXTRIDE!
A project goal is to have its recommenda tions considered by Sport Canada officials for its fu ture benentTheprogramming.researchcompofortheprojectwillledbyanIndigenous advisory group (IAG), which includes Elders, knowledge keepers, and others.
So far, the IAG con
Once registered, us ers pay 25 cents per kilometre, with a mini mum ride fee of $10, re turn. Volunteer drivers are reimbursed at a rate of 46 cents a kilometre.
Johnson said the origi nal plans before the town included only vague cost ing, using ballpark num
“But that does not necessarily mean we’ll have 10 people in each group.”
Samuel is an Elder who also sits on the board of directors for
“Clients have to reg ister, then provide a ride request 48 hours before their appointment. We in voice the clients directly at the end of the month,” she explained to RSC 12 members during their monthly board meeting.
That work was spear headed by Dr. Janice Forsyth, a former West ern University professor in London, Ont., who is now a professor with Uni versity of British Colum bia’s Indigenous landbased physical culture and wellness program.
Once RSC 12 works out contract details, Ur ban/Rural Rides will start advertising for volunteer drivers.
Other IAG mem bers include Brigette Lacquette and Waneek Horn-Miller.Lacquette became the first First Nations woman to represent Canada in hockey at the 2018 Win ter Olympics. And HornMiller is a former water polo player. She’s a Mo hawk woman who served as the captain of the Ca nadian women’s water polo squad at the 2000 Sydney Olympics.
The bridge, which spans the St. John River from beenFlorenceville-Bristol,downtownhasclosedtovehicle
The closure of the Old Florenceville Bridge in November 2020 forced travellers to use the near by Highway 160 bridge.
“Our clients are most ly seniors, people with disabilities, low-income families and individuals, as well as newcomers,” she told the commission over Zoom on Aug. 22.
service the province has mandated they provide, adding that RSC 12 was one of only two commis sions in the province that had yet to fulfill that man date.Taylor said clients cur rently served by the Ur ban/Rural Rides in other regions appreciate hav ing an economical trans portation option, espe cially in very rural areas. She added that for some, it’s about more than just getting to their appoint ments.“One client, a gentle man, talked about how (the service) makes him feel like he matters,” she told the commission.
“We are not compet ing with taxi cabs, and we are a registered char ity,” said Taylor during her presentation.Taylorsaid it would take time to set up the service once the con tract is signed, as there needs to be a ‘community champion’’ to spearhead getting the word out and rounding up people who would be interested and qualify as drivers. All driv ers need to be screened, and then once the logis tical infrastructure is in place, the transportation service can start register ing clients. The plan is to piggyback onto the dis patch services of Urban/ Rural Rides and work with the Community In clusion Network to help register clients.
Earlier this summer, an Indigenous-owned company called Archipel Research and Consulting Inc. won a bid to conduct a project, which it is call ing “Indigenous Peoples in Sport: Research and Data Plan”.
By Sam Laskaris – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
The Mohawk lacrosse team from Kahnawake won the national championship in 1869.
By Theresa Blackburn
“Its historical signifi cance, its linkage to the town’s identity and the
convenience and safety of pedestrians, cyclists and vehicular traffic, all weighed in on the commit ment to save the bridge,” Johnson said.
Another project goal is to gain insight into how to identify the needs of Indigenous athletes who compete in sports throughout the country.
She said DTI officials’ steps include determining the best design structure to preserve the historical integrity while accommo dating the day-to-day de mands on the structure.
will be used to kick-start the service. Once set up, client fees will help offset costs.
Kelly Taylor is the Executive Manager of Urban/Rural Rides, a non-profit organization that will be contracted to provide affordable transportation services for lowincome individuals, families, and newcomers in western New Brunswick. (Submitted photo)
The program’s bud get is $96,000, but initial estimates after factoring in a yearly ESIC grant of $50,000 with money from clients, RSC 12 will be paying approximately $23,000 for the service.
This is the largest gap we have ever had because of the rise in gas costs. We debated increasing costs to clients, but they are struggling. The cost doesn’t change the fact that people still need to go to their medical ap pointments.”McGrath pointed out that transportation is a
“We are aiming for a total participation of 40 people,” said Pictou Lee, who is from the Mi’kmaq community of Eel River Bar First Nation in north ern New Brunswick.
To assist with the project, organizers will consult with Indigenous sport researchers, ath letes, coaches, officials, as well as representa tives from Indigenous and non-Indigenous sportPictouorganizations.Leesaid her company’s research project is a continuation of work that had already been conducted by Indig enous researchers and
A Sept. 13 sharing circle will then see Indig enous researchers take part. And the final online meeting is scheduled for Sept. 15. It will include Indigenous athletes, coaches and officials.
Photo by James Inglis, courtesy of Library and Archives Canada.
Sabre Pictou Lee, the CEO of Archipel Re search and Consulting, said the research project hopes to be able answer the question of what sport means to Indige nous“Thispeople.is that step ping stone to help bridge those worlds,” Pictou Lee said of the project.
Desiree Isaac-Pictou, a wheelchair basketball athlete and a business administration student at the University of New Brunswick, is also a member of the IAG.
Indigenous owned company wins bid, project to identify needs of Indigenous athletes
Kelly Taylor is the Ex ecutive Manager of Ur ban/Rural Rides.
Thesenation.people
My family were passionate royalists, as many in Carleton County were. There was a strong military connection between our Queen and her father, King George VI, and her grandfather, King George V, because our local men and women served under their monarch in two World Wars.
For the past 23 years, I have operated a rooming house in my home. We have developed our business by providing for the temporary rooming needs of foreign truck drivers, most of whom come from Eastern Europe. These people are usually men who have left their families behind and come to Canada hoping to find a new life for themselves and their families.
CARLETON COUNTY Colloquialisms
In some cases, there may be a pre ferred nation status that allows their fami lies to come to Canada without hesita tion. Most recently, some of our Ukrainian guests have benefited from this. In other cases, some delays and roadblocks defy their understanding as bureaucracy’s wheels slowly grind.
ers.Further, as a newly-married woman in Rothesay, I joined my husband as we boarded the Royal Yacht Britannia to at tend a reception and be introduced person ally to Prince Charles and Diana, Princess of Wales. It was spectacular! Earlier that day, we had joined the crowds as the royal couple disembarked at Market Slip in Saint John.
The Queen specifically wanted to spend time with Indigenous Peoples across the country and the north. Historically, when First Nations people along what we call the St. John River wished to speak with the government, the Chiefs and Elders chose to paddle and disembark from their birch bark canoes at Government House to talk to Queen Victoria’s representative there.
• The Great Lakes, shared by the U.S. and Canada, contains approximately 21 per cent of the world’s fresh water supply.
I was a young teacher in Sackville, N.B., when got a call, along with my cousin, Mary, to find something dressy to wear and get ourselves to Fredericton so we could join Joe Clark, his wife, Maureen McTeer, and their baby daughter, Catherine. Then we flew out on a plane to Ottawa to attend the Silver Jubilee Concert at the National Arts Centre in honour of the Queen. We heard the amazing voice of Buffy St. Ma rie and the piano talent of Andre Gagnon, among many other talented Canadian art ists.I
CHECK OUT OUR FIELD HOUSE SCHEDULE! “Word Search’ fea tures, drop Theresa a note at theresa@rivervalleysun.ca
Emily Clark’s uncle, former New Bruns wick Premier Richard Hatfield, and Queen Elizabeth II, with Prince Philip in the back ground. (Submitted photo)
Most of these people came here under one of the Federal-Provincial programs designed to attract foreign workers to Canada, such as the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, the Labor Market Im pact Assessment (LMIA) program, or the New Brunswick Skilled Worker Stream. Between the applicant, the employer and the province of New Brunswick, the immi gration door is opened. They arrive here with the necessary qualifications, license, training, and orientation to do the job they were hired for. They usually work under a term contract for a specific employer, after which other employment options become available.
On Tuesday, November 6th, 1951, Queen Elizabeth and her”Sailor-Consort” arrived in Fredericton aboard her special 10-car Royal Train at 10 o’clock, reported the Daily Gleaner. His Honour, Lieutenant Governor D. L. MacLaren, greeted them with Premier J. B. McNair and His Worship, Dr. H. S. Wright, the Mayor of Fredericton. The New Brunswick tour included visits to Saint John, Moncton, and Sackville. The proprietor of the Marshlands Inn once told me the Queen stayed there on this visit.
Providing Readers with a Challenge, a Chuckle, and a Smile
GET AUTUMN ACTIVE!ACTIVITIES GALORE! RVS Word Search: BOATING sinkertrawl keel cleat schoonerboombowrider shell transombailerafthull propellertopsidedockdeck WESTERN VALLEY FOREVER YOUNG FRIENDSHIP GAMES Tuesday, September 20. For 50+ adults. Activities include golf, washer toss, bocce ball, 45’s, cribbage, dominoes, and more! MUST REGISTER IN ADVANCE! Cost: $5 Enjoy activities, lunch, and socialization! WOODSTOCK BOXING AND SPORT CLUB JUNIOR BOXERS PROGRAM Ages 10 - 15 yrs - Tuesdays 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. 6-week sessions - $45 per session Session 1: Sept. 20 – Oct. 25, Session 2: Nov. 8 – Dec. 13 MUST REGISTER IN ADVANCE. WOMEN’S BOXING FITNESS Mondays - 6:30 - 8 p.m. Saturdays - 8:30 - 10 a.m. All Fitness Levels Welcome! $8/Drop-in; $65/Punch Card Try it for WednesdaysCOMPETITIVEFree!TRAININGandFridays6-8p.m.Saturdays-3p.m.
remember this whirlwind trip vividly. We watched as the Queen passed by us in her brilliantly sparkling tiara, diamond necklace, and canary yellow gown, taking the time to stop and visit with people.
Imaginefathers.thatyou are told that your case is on the bottom of a 17-month wait
Any noise annoys an oyster, but a noisy noise annoys and oyster more!
•Once formed, lakes do not stay the same. Like people, they go through different stages – youth, maturity, old age, and death.
remember singing God Save the Queen at the closing of every school con cert. Our classrooms at Fisher Memorial and Broadway Schools were covered in Empire bunting, and we all learned how to fold a paper version of the Union Jack by placing the flags of St. George, St. Andrew, and St. David on top of each other.
New Brunswick has witnessed many Royal visits by the Queen and her family.
manent Residence status. The guys with families waiting in their homelands usually do everything they can to prepare for fam ily reunification here in Canada.
Thank you,
ing list, not for its approval, but for pos sible consideration. Then imagine know ing your family is being denied access to Canada, for no good reason, while driving your transport truck through northern On tario, on a two-lane highway, in the dark and during a snow storm while dodging moose, bear and porcupines on the road.
Louise Johnston Woodstock, N.B.
•Canada has almost two million lakes.
SWIM LESSONS - FALL SESSION Registration opens Sept. 14. Check out the Lap Swim and Public Swim schedules at town.woodstock.nb.ca Pool is closed due to annual maintenance. and scheduled to re-open in September. Date: TBA WE ARE HIRING! Full and part-time aquatic staff Applicants must have or be willing to acquire specific lifeguard certification. **
should not be held to ransom simply be cause their country of origin is politically unpopular.
AQUATIC FACILITY HOLIDAY CLOSURES
Hear this word pronounced at www.dooryard.ca.
Grandfather Hatfield served as a Mem ber of Parliament before, during and af ter the Second World War and met the Queen Mother and the newly anointed King George VI. The King’s brother, Prince Edward, the Prince of Wales, visited New Brunswick and played golf at the Algonquin Hotel in St. Andrew’s-by-the-Sea.
Letter to the Editor
I want to think that all those who sup port a genuinely multi-cultural Canadian family-oriented society would encourage their federal MPs and the Canadian gov ernment to defend the rights of all foreign workers.These people are working for our ben efit and waiting on immigration approvals for their families to come to Canada and are being denied due process.
12 RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 13SUPPORT YOUR FREE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER – Email theresa@rivervalleysun.ca to learn how you can sponsor a page!
By Emily Anne Clark
We learned to sing “The Maple Leaf Forever” and other patriotic songs, and the New Brunswick curriculum included les sons about the development of the Com monwealth of Nations.
Emily Clark is a retired teacher, historian, and royalist who lives and volunteers in Carleton County.
Later, joined my Uncle for dinner with their Honours, George and Mrs. Stanley, with Prince Philip in Fredericton. Prince Philip asked me what the speed limit was in this province because he couldn’t un derstand why his car drove so slowly from Gagetown! He was in the province to pass out his Duke of Edinburgh awards. The Duke was very interested in young people experiencing a variety of opportunities to challenge themselves in the service of oth
The Queen’s grandfather, George V, publicly acknowledged Canadians’ role in winning the First World War. Many mem
At this point, in some cases, things fall apart. Good people, who are good work ers with no credit flaws, hit the wall. It hurts to watch our Canadian government’s de nial to the families of the people we are us ing to keep our country’s economy viable as a
The news on Thursday, Sept. 8, that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II had died has touched people far beyond the borders of the United Kingdom of Great Britain. People across the Commonwealth that she helped create are saddened.
Our grandfather Clark went to the Coro nation of George V as a young soldier with other colonial army representatives. We have group pictures of him marching on Coronation day in 1911. His brother, Nor ville Clark, stayed in France after the First World War to bury the dead, including the horses. His mother sent him a letter in 1919 asking him to return home as he was need ed on the farm in Wakefield.
When my uncle, Richard Hatfield, was Premier of New Brunswick, he would take his brothers and sisters and nieces and nephews to events involving the Royal Family. My Mother, Rheta Clark, accompa nied her brother and other Canadian Pre miers to dinner on the Royal Yacht Britan nia in Toronto.
•All lakes are either open or closed. If water leaves a lake by a river or other outlet, it’s open. If water only leaves the lake through evaporation, the lake is closed.
WE HAVE SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE! Visit town.woodstock.nb.ca Young parents and their tots can enjoy Itty Bitty Movers and our Afterschool Youth Zone. Try Inclusive Movement, and Walk-ins, where you can try a variety of equipment to be active! Have ideas for our ‘Did You Know” or
bers of the Royal Family were encouraged to visit Canada after that, including our Queen.Ialso remember when I was six years old, my father had me stand by the garage door to practice aiming for a Graves apple juice can placed in the woods at a certain distance with his 22 rifle - just in case I might need that skill someday. That same summer, my mother had my sister and me practise our courtesy because someday we might meet the Queen! Little did know...
GUEST ROYALLYCOMMENTARY:SPEAKING
RVS TONGUE TWISTER
The Queen made over 20 official trips to Canada and included this province in many of her tours, including the year she came to celebrate our Bicentennial. For many New Brunswick families, there was great excite ment when members of royalty visited. Chil dren would put their copper pennies on the train track and keep the flattened treasures as souvenirs. My generation grew up with Dominion Day on July 1 instead of Canada Day and Empire Day on the long weekend of May, now known as Victoria Day.
New Brunswick’s relationship with Queen Elizabeth
square dancing at the Calgary Stampede.
Most of these guys make very diligent attempts to learn our language and pre pare themselves to qualify for their Per
Did you KNOW?
SUNNY-SIDE UP
In 1951, when a then young Princess Elizabeth and her dashing sailor, Prince Philip, first toured Canada together, they enjoyed dancing at balls in their honour and
•There are 117 million lakes on earth, covering 37 per cent of land.
need to be put into a spe cial category of immigration applicants, where those with families are considered for immigration based on their loved one’s contributions to our economy. Their jobs are hard enough as it is without the bur den of unnecessary government delays and bureaucratic foolishness. While situ ations like what has happened in war-torn parts of the world like Ukraine do need the prompt attention of our immigration officials, they also need to continue with the business of giving ALL qualified ap plicants, especially those attempting to reunite with their families. The wives and children of these dedicated family men
If there is so much work to do at Immi gration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada, and they cannot handle the workload, then someone needs to do something to help that department organize their ef forts. We need to get things moving for the immigrants here, who make a positive dif ference every day in Canada and our way of life.
walk \’wahk\ verb - To partake with gusto, typically used as an invitation to do so, i.e., “be my guest” or “help yourself”; “Jeez, Garnet, there’s a whole-whack ‘a beer left, walk ‘er to ya.” See also: fill yer boots, walkem sodie.
ageless New Brunswick is a proud supporter of community journalism and the River Valley Sun. www.agelessnb.ca
** The AYR Motor Centre will be CLOSED on SEPT. 30 for National Truth and Reconciliation Day, and on OCT. 10 for Thanksgiving.
Give immigrant truckers special consideration and reunite families
Their families must apply to immigrate to Canada by meeting very specific crite ria and providing proof of their personal integrity and long-term intentions to some government officials, all intended to pre vent unwanted people from sneaking into Canada and having a life with their hus bands and
By John Morris
The arts and nature festi val will run from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2. Fill your weekend with music, art, nature, and food! Check out the An drew and Laura McCain Art Gallery website for de tails and call the Gallery 392-6769 to reserve your space. lery.com/participatehttp://mccainartgal
Babysitting Course
The Take Back
Houlton Woodstock,Road,N.B.
14 RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 15Purvis Culbert Law in Woodstock is a proud supporter community journalism and the River Valley Sun. www.purvisculbertlaw.ca Nackawic ‘goes Disney’ Large crowds attend Festival on the Bend 2022 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 Woodstock Living FreeAlcoholics Anonymous NEIGHBOURHOOD NEWS Information and Updates from Your Towns, Villages, and Local Service Districts Florenceville-BristolWoodstock (506) 392-6763 florencevillebristol.ca (506) 375-4357 town.hartland.nb.ca (506) 575-2241 www.nackawic.com (506) 325-4600 www.town.woodstock.nb.ca Canterbury Newnham & Slipp Pharmacy Free Local Prescription Delivery, Home Health Products, Orthotic Supports & Braces, Mastectomy Products with Certified Fitters and Fitting Rooms, Hallmark Gift Shop, Cosmetics & Lotto Tickets! 604 Main Street Woodstock 325-2000 Shoppers Drug Mart Online Prescription Refills, Expanded Health Care Products, Luxury Beauty Products, Wardrobe Accessories, Fragrances, Fresh and Frozen Grocery Items, Household Products, Cleaning Supplies, and PC Optimum Points! 370 Connell Street Woodstock 328-8801 Ryan’s PrescriptionsFriendlyPharmacyCaringStaffandCustomCompoundingTravelClinic-rivervalleytravelhealth.caHealthCareinYourCommunitySince1970! 135 Otis Drive Nackawic 575-2075 Nackawic Your Health is Our Priority Convenient DRIVE-THRU Prescriptions and Custom Compounding Vaccinations and Wellness Consults 100 Jones Drive, Woodstock (506) 325-5550 Valley Outreach offers free, confidential sup port to someone living with, leaving, or has left an intimate-partner violent relationship, or has been sexually assaulted, or knows someone who needs support. Offering sup port from Nackawic to Plaster Rock, these services are still available during COVID-19.
If you saw Minnie Mouse walking down the street in Nackawic on Saturday, Aug. 20, you weren’t see ing things. The Town of Nackawic held their annual Festival on the Bend pa rade, and the theme was Nackawic Goes Disney. The festival started a week earlier with a car show followed by UCW Ultimate Championship Wrestling at the arena on Saturday, Aug 13. On Sunday, Aug. 14, families enjoyed a Selfie Scavenger Hunt along the Nackawic waterfront. Other activities throughout the week included a Paint Night, Bingo, and a Little Miss Nackawic Pageant. And on Friday, Aug. 19, the Miss Nackawic Pageant was back after a three-year hiatus due to the pandemic. There was even an excep tional performance by East Coast Music Award winner Tristan Horncastle.
By Karen Howell, volunteer correspondent
HOURS: Tues. to Fri, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Lexi Brewer was crowned 2nd Princess. Miss Conge niality and the title of Miss Nackawic 2022 went to CharismaSaturdayFarrell.was a busy day with many different ac tivities, including a ham and bean dinner at the Lions Club, a street parade, and a yard sale at the Kirk United Church.
On Sunday, Aug. 21, Dari Delite held a fundraiser for the Multicultural Association of Carleton County or MACC, while celebrating their 75th Anniversary. Owner Eric Cummings was a good sport and got dunked for a good cause. Congratulations to Dari Delite on their milestone. They continue to be community focused after all these years. (Submitted photo)
The Class-of-One Tour ism Entrepreneur Mentor ship & Entrepreneurship
Special Garbage Collection
Canterbury Days planned Canterbury Days will be held Friday and Satur day, Sept. 16 and 17, be ginning with a corn boil and bon fire Friday eve ning at the community centre, followed by fire works after dark. Satur day morning events be gin with the community yard sale in the morning, and parade at noon. The park events throughout the afternoon will include a vendors’ market, mu sic, games and more.
accept
Minor Hockey, Basketball
Shop for quality
Newly crowned Miss Nackawic 2022, Charisma Farrell, and her fellow contestants served corn on the cob courtesy of Ryan’s Pharmacy. (Karen Howell photo)
The Woodstock Police Force will host the 2022 Public Safety Day at the NBCC parking lot on Oct. 1, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event, designed for all ages, will provide a chance to meet those who protect the com munity’s residents and property, and get a closeup look at the equipment they use.
annual
The first Joyce Gordon Memorial Award was pre sented to contestant Jes sicaOtherPatterson.awards presented at the end of the evening were Miss Poster and Miss Autobiography, both given to Kyra Shannon, who also went on to win 1st Prin cess. Each contestant’s autobiography was judged on grammar and content.
DARI DELITE TURNS 75
An extra award was presented at the pageant this year. Karen Gillespie, the Pageant Coordinator, explained that the commit tee decided to give a Joyce
A babysitting course will be held Oct. 4 and 5 from 3:15-5:30 p.m. Call the Rec Department for more de tails at 392-6763 ext. 211
WPF Public Safety Day
Entrepreneurship support
For more information contact Manon Al bert, 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.
Take Back the Night
Check the Carleton Minor Hockey Association and Northern Carleton Minor Basketball Facebook pag es for registration details
Ice is in and available for booking starting Sept. 19. If interested, contact the civic centre by email nccc@flor encevillebirstol.ca
Incentive Plan:is avail able to potential busi ness people. The Town of Florenceville-Bristol continues work to identify and attract new and estab lished entrepreneurs to the area! For more information please visit: classofone.ca
Gordon Memorial Award. “Joyce had helped with the pageant for years. Any thing we asked, she did. The award is based on Joyce’s community service, her love of community and her love of volunteering. The award went to the con testant that best represent ed Joyce,” said Gillespie.
In the arena and around the arena grounds were paintball, Cornelius the Bal loon Guy, Bouncy Castles, Llama-Zing Adventures, and Magician Zap Magic.
Miss Nackawic 2022 and her fellow contestants. From left, 1st Princess Kyra Shannon, Taylor Bennett, Samantha Gullison, Miss Nackawic and Miss Congeniality 2022 Cha risma Farrell, Jessica Patterson, Emma Spavold, Summer Cronkite, and 2nd Princess Lexi Brewer. (Karen Howell photo)
Lib’s Woodlot Management won third place in the parade. First place went to Mariner’s Point Campground and second went to Karabear’s Daycare. (Karen Howell photo)
Florenceville-Bristol’s big garbage pickup will be Thursday, Oct. 6. Resi dents should ensure ev erything is boxed, bagged or bundled not more than 50 lbs each. Please visit the town’s website for the “Special Garbage Collec tion Day” ad for more infor mation. www.florencevil lebristol.ca
Northampton Rec Centre Breakfast
Saturday, Oct. 1 from 7 to 10 a.m. Enjoy eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, toast, fried potatoes, beans, with coffee, tea, and juice. $12 for adults, $7 for children 6 to 12 Under 6 years of age - FREE Northampton Rec Centre 3781 Route 105, Northampton, N.B.
the Night march will be held Friday Sept. 16, between 7 and 8 p.m. Marchers will gather at NBCC Woodstock and march to the Woodstock courthouse and back.
Country Jamboree
The next Country Jam boree will be held Sept. 24, from 7 to 9:30 p.m., at the Nackawic Lions Club, with a light lunch planned for 8 p.m.
while supporting the
Llama-Zing wasn’t only a hit with the kids during Nackawic’s Festival on the Bend, but also with the adults. (Karen Howell photo)
and household items!
Get family Valley Food Bank. used clothes
clothing bargains for the whole
We donations,
and couldusemoremen’sclothing.
BrighterBoutiqueDays
162 Houlton WoodstockStreet
NCCC Ice Rentals
Classical guitar player Ewan Dobson started the entertainment on the are na stage. New Brunswick Showcase featuring vari ous artists entertained the large crowd, followed by Gracie Myshrall performing a dance. There were also many different vendors at the Inarena.the evening, festivalgoers enjoyed the annual corn boil sponsored by Ryan’s Pharmacy while the band Double D played on the World’s Largest Axe. The evening ended with an impressive fireworks dis play at dusk. Festival on the Bend Chairperson, Donna Ga gnon, said the week was a success with lots of positive feedback. But there won’t be much rest for the com mittee as Gagnon said they are already starting to think about ideas for Festival on the Bend 2023.
pARTicipate Festival:
Email event info jim@rivervalleysun.cato:
MOVE IN READY!
Located in Nature’s Edge Park in Woodstock, stay here, or move this beautiful home to your own piece of land. This gorgeous three-bedroom, two-bathroom 16 x 70 Prestige Home is spacious, bright, and energy efficient. Call Mar-Phi Homes to schedule a walk-through and tour this ‘not-so-mini’ mini-home today!
WELCOME TO YOUR NEW HOME!
THANK YOU from the town HARTLANDof
Norma Jewett photo
16 RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 17PD Foster Insurance in Florenceville-Bristol is a proud supporter of the River Valley Sun. www.pdfoster.ca NOW!HERE Mar-Phi Homes YOUR MODULAR & MINI-HOME RETAILER FOR OVER 28 YEARS! QUALITY, COMFORT, AND PRICE THAT YOU’LL LIKE
Call 506-328-4341 Email marphihomes@rogers.com Visit marphiselecthomes.com
The Mayor and Council of the Town of Hartland would like to thank the organizing committee, volunteers and sponsors of this year’s New Brunswick Day celebrations in Hartland, including the Covered Bridge Market. Congratulations on a spectacular success!
The Covered Bridge Committee would like to thank those who supported our successful 7th Annual New Brunswick Day Covered Bridge Market. This year we celebrated Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee and the 100th anniversary of the covering of the bridge.
In particular, the committee thanks the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure for their approval to host the market on the bridge, local businesses for their donations, organizations such as the Hartland Fire Department, volunteers, the Town’s Public Works and Recreation departments, the Beautification Committee, vendors, and everyone who visited the market.
Pontoon boats pulled in close to shore or tied up at docks to take on friends or
Group Landscape Archi tects and Park Planners, represented by Justin Christie at the ribbon-cut ting, provided a detailed
Woodstock Police Force officers re main in the “educational phase” as they enforce a new bylaw, allowing offroad vehicles access to designated roads within theWPFtown.
“This isn’t a step for ward. It is a step back,” Sutherland said.
The Aug. 9 presen tation, available on the town’s website, outlined the current water-meter system’s drain on town re sources and funds.
“You’re all key players,” Kitchen told them.
of people in town without plates or helmets.”
Jones acknowledged the $626 average price people pay in other New Brunswick communities
ern Region RCMP.
cil members that the pro posed plan “is still in its infancy.”Jones stressed that changes are needed, and revenue is required to en sure ongoing upgrades and water and sewer infra structure maintenance.
“This is absolutely gor geous,” Bragdon said as he motioned toward his surroundings.Hedescribed the Nackawic project as an example of projects ACOA
Big Axe Marina highlights Nackawic’s riverfront vision Woodstock police still in ORV bylaw ‘educational phase’
Aformer long-time mem ber of Woodstock council urged current councillors to step back from any plans to change the town’s water billing from meter to a levy sys tem.In a letter read into the record at the Aug. 23 council meeting, Catherine Sutherland stated discus sions about changes to the water-billing system aren’t new, but the proposal out lined at the Aug. 9 council meeting raises concerns.
sewer billing issues that they regret switching to smart meters.
project.Three levels of govern ment funded the project, with the federal govern ment participating through ACOA and the province through the Regional De velopment
As members of the waterfront and economic committees, Deputy May or Greg MacFarlane and Coun. Robert Simpson had front-row seats as the town and partners turned a dis tant dream into reality.
CAO Andrew Garnett and Director of Finance Kristin Pelkey said officials from many municipalities told the committee study ing Woodstock’s water and
you on the water, it now welcomes you from the wa ter,” he said.
Ribbon-cutting ceremony showcases town’s long-range plan
Christie, speaking on behalf of Glenn Group, also thanked council members and staff. He described the marina as a pivotal step in making Nackawic a tourism hub for the Upper Valley.
“This is great for tourist AT Vers, who need to get into town for supplies. It’s yet to be seen whether it will curb any illegal ATV activ ity throughout the town.”
‘This isn’t a step forward, it’s a step back’: Catherine Sutherland tells current council
The setting helped tell the story along the Nackawic waterfront on a warm, sunny Saturday ear ly afternoon on Aug. 13.
andThe220.designated routes give off-road-vehicle trav ellers access to most town businesses, including stores, restaurants, gas stations and other retail outlets.The maximum speed limit is 40 km/h. Drivers must be 16 years or older with a valid driver’s license and an NB trail permit.
“What you’re proposing should be looking to the future,” Sutherland wrote.
Ames said he had din ner Friday evening with Gary Crossman, the min ister responsible for the RDC, explaining they both see Nackawic’s vast poten tial as a tourism destination and economic driver for the Upper St. John River Val ley.“This is well-spent mon ey,” Ames told the River Valley Sun.
It remains unclear how the planned amalgama tion of Woodstock, Grafton and other communities on Jan. 1, 2023, would affect the ORV bylaw should the town renew it next year.
During his remarks, Mayor Kitchen praised the efforts of project man ager Lonnie Forbes of the regional service commis sion, Destination Nackawic President and CEO Brent Samson and key contrac tors Eric Cummings of E. Cummings Contractors, Dwight MacFarlane of D-Mac Electric and Ron Blaney of Riverbend Log Homes.Cummings attended Saturday’s celebration with several members of his Woodstock-based firm.
Fines for ATV or quad drivers ignoring off-road regulations and the town bylaw can range from $100 to $2,500.
She said New Bruns wick, at 66 per cent, has the fewest residents on municipal water in the country, noting eight of 10 provinces are over 90 per cent.Jones added that only 62 per cent of Woodstock residents currently depend on municipal water supply, which will drop to 38 per cent after amalgamation on Jan. 1.
Trina Jones re sponded to Sutherland’s letter, acknowledging the former councillor raised validShepoints.reminded coun
life for the price of a ticket.”
By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Newly designated legal routes are great for compliant drivers, but officers see little change in actions of non-compliant drivers
While smart metering may provide the fairest dis tribution of water costs for residents, Jones suggest ed the town cannot afford the cost.
would mean a significant increase for some resi dents but suggested the new bylaw could include measures to help seniors and other residents on fixed or low incomes.
ministrative staff member, highlighted the benefits of the town replacing its cur rent metering system with a levy flat rate system for residential customers.
launched into the water at two boat-launching ramps.
“The $400,000 spent on smart meters is money we can’t get back,” she said.
“It’s still very new for the public,” said Matthews.
Sgt. Jeff Mat thews said it’s still too early to gauge the effectiveness of the new bylaw.
The deputy mayor wore his emotions on his sleeve as he spoke, with Simpson at his side, before the rib bon-cutting ceremony.
The pilot project still bans off-road vehicles ac cess to the Grafton bridge, the only local route across the St. John River between Woodstock and Grafton. Bridge traffic falls under the jurisdiction of the West
After more than five years and a score of chal lenges of Nackawic council and staff formulating their long-term waterfront vision, Mayor Ian Kitchen cut the ribbon to open phase one of its multi-phase plan. Standing at the door way to the newly built log structure serving as the Big Axe Marina canteen, Kitchen was surrounded by 16 of the many people who played pivotal roles in developing the waterfront vision, including the marina which opened in June.
should fund, calling it an “in vestment in the future.”
blueprint and long-range plan.The formation of Desti nation Nackawic Economic Development Corporation spearheaded the creation of an economic plan for the greater Nackawic region, including the waterfront.
He said officers pulled over several ATVs on the designated roads and used it as an opportunity to educate the drivers on the newMatthewsbylaws. said that driv ers breaking laws will most likely receive an initial warning, but if they persist in breaking the MVA laws, they will be fined accord ingly.“We still see them (ille gal drivers) all over town,” said Matthews. “We don’t pursue them for safety reasons. We aren’t going to endanger someone’s
“Nackawic not only puts
18 RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 19John’s Floor Service Ltd. in Woodstock is a proud supporter of the River Valley Sun. Visit the John’s Flooring Facebook page.
By Matthew Flemming
“And if it isn’t homeown ers, then you plan to in crease what businesses are paying,” she wrote. I”m going to tell you that business is paying all they can afford, and many ho meowners are struggling to keep up with the ris ing costs just to run their households. This is not the time to be increasing water costs.”Coun.
The PowerPoint pre sentation delivered at the Aug. 9 council meeting by Geraldine Campbell, an accounts receivable ad
“This is great for compli ant Quad users who want to get into town for gas and food,” said Matthews. “But we aren’t seeing a real change in non-compliant drivers. There are still lots
The mayor needed only look to his left to see boats filling most of the available berths at the marina docks. He could look left or right to see other boats being
“As a group, we said that when we’re done, we want to say the word ‘per fect.’ hope everyone is in agreement,” he said.
Coun. Mark Rogers stressed fairness should be a critical point in any billing change, noting he didn’t want to see residents forced to pay the same rate while using half as much water.
Mayor Art Slipp said the town completed a cost analysis of remotely read meters a few years ago. He said the information from that study should be avail able to council as it consid ers a water and sewer op tion going forward.
Thedestination.hiringof Glenn
This new bylaw does not pertain to motocross or dirt bikes, which remain banned from any town Street or non-motorized path.The current pilot proj ect, which ends Oct. 30, allows licensed drivers on registered quads or ATVs to legally travel along por tions of Houlton and Main streets and all Connell Road as far as town limits.
ed his office overlooks the town’s waterfront, repre sented the federal govern ment. Growing up with his father working across the river at the Nackawic mill, the graduate of Nackawic High School considered the town his home.
The bylaw gives legal off-road vehicles access to Connell Street, from Main Street to the town limits, just before the Trans Can ada overpass. Riders can also use Gallop Court be tween civic numbers 123
Former councillor warns against levy-based water billing
The designated Woodstock routes include Houlton Street (Route 103), from the trail near J & T Powersports to Main Street. Drivers can travel Main Street as far as Connell Street (Route 550).
“It’s not going to be a quick decision,” he said.
RichardTobique-MactaquacCommission.MPBragdon,whonot
family.Straight ahead, he could see the marina staff serving a customer at the boat-fuelling station. In the background, jet skis roared up and down the Nackawic Stream and the St. John River.Further to his left, he could see a family of tour ists touring the variety of floating docks or trails lead ing past the town’s famous landmark, the World’s Big gestNearbyAxe. children laughed and splashed in the wa ter or dove from a floating dock while parents and oth ers relaxed in the shade of trees.Kitchen said the project began five years ago when council, staff and commu nity volunteers planted the seeds for a long-term vision to turn the town’s already beautiful riverfront into a tourist
Matthews said if an offi cer stops an off-road vehi cle, meeting legal require ments on an undesignated road, they will direct them to the designated routes.
“Find a metering system that can be read wirelessly, much like NB Power moni tors everyone’s power us age. That at least would keep all of us, homeown ers, businesses and town staff alike, current and on top of water usage.”
As representatives from the municipal, provincial and federal governments and special guests gath ered for the official opening of the Big Axe Marina com plex, area residents and visitors took advantage of what the weather and river side town offered.
Mayor Ian Kitchen and Coun. Robert Simpson watch marina summer staff gas up a boat prior to the ribbon cutting. (Jim Dumville photo)
If they don’t meet legal requirements, the ATV will be parked until picked up or towed away.
The study estimated a savings of $400,000 by not replacing meters over the next three to five years. It also noted compiling wa ter-meter readings takes three town employees an average of three weeks.
She quoted statistics suggesting Woodstock residential water users are getting great value.
“It’s a well-organized team,” he said. “They got their act together.”
In her letter to council, Sutherland said the pro posal to switch to a levy system both “surprised and disappointed” her.
MacFarlane thanked Simpson, the mayor and other councillors, residents, staff, consultants, contrac tors and the many advisors who played a role in com pleting the marina project. He thanked his wife Anna for putting up with the “ranting and raving” over several years as the water front committee jumped the many hurdles and secured funding.MacFarlane reminded those on hand for the cer emony that the marina project is only phase one of the Nackawic’s waterfront
By Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Stressing the impor tance of water conserva tion, she said a water levy provides no incentive for homeowners to limit water usage.The former councillor also raised concern about the proposal’s increased revenue estimates, sug gesting that someone will be paying more.
See more festival
Fire Chief Andrew Cougle and his girlfriend Brittany Shaw decided to take a flight together – something neither had ever experi enced before. They flew in Schmedley with pilot Mike Lavoie of New Hampshire.
“Unfortunately, COVID hit our sales really hard,” said Elsinghorst, who start ed the business in 2016; Robichaud joined her two years“Inago.anormal year, we would do eight or nine events. However, this year, it will only be four or five,” said Elsinghorst.
Among the vendors was Catherine Kuijpers, who moved to New Brunswick from Ontario during the height of the pandemic. While volunteering at the Andrew & Laura McCain Art Gallery, she met artists and artisans.Inspired, Kuijpers be came a vendor of young plants in unique upcycled pots. She said planting and caring for her succulents has been therapeutic, while selling them has helped her settle into her new commu nity.“I love it here,” said Kui jpers, “and this has been a great way to get to know people, as well as the com munity.”
By Sandra Hanson
20 RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 21
Nackawic area, sold home made mixes for custom dip, soup, seasoning and pop corn at the festival. They said they sell their mixes in local stores and craft fairs.
The festival kicked off with a Harvest Breakfast from 8 to 10:30 a.m., with the proceeds supporting community art education programming at the An drew & Laura McCain Art Gallery.
The River Valley Sun spoke to a few participants while they were busily pre paring for their flights.
Tickets sold on one of her prints raised funds to support Jacksonville Bap tist Church’s Dominican Mission.
For them, flying bal loons is a family affair. They travelled to the Bath festival with their children and Jer emy’s brother’s family, who also piloted a balloon.
Deborah Griffiths, from DeeGee Designs, makes one-of-a-kind dream catch ers and feather earrings.
“They are all one of a kind,” she said, “I ever re produce them.”
Betty’s “Got the Best” was on site with a complete barbecue while selling her fresh farm produce. River’s Edge Lemonade offered fresh-squeezed lemonade.
The event ran from Sept. 1 to 5. Flights took place twice a day, weather permitting, in the morning andFlightsevening.typically launch from the Bath fairgrounds. However, on Friday eve ning, westerly winds forced a venue change.
By Sandra Hanson
“Another balloon landed right next to us. It was pret ty neat,” Cougle said. He explained that the pilots keep “Appreciation Packages” on hand, which they give to homeowners when forced to make such an unexpected landing.
Running the festival requires many volunteers who help not just with the venue (entertainment, clean-up, security) but play numerous roles in helping pilots and Volunteerspassengers.helpset up the balloons, follow their flight, pick up the crew and passengers when they land and repack the balloons.
“We came in 2019 as we had two great friends who lived here,” said Viner. “ We loved it so much that
knew what they were do ing.”Because the winds had changed the launch site, the plan was to land at the Bath Fairgrounds site. Un fortunately, the winds did not cooperate for that ei ther, so Cougle explained they ended up landing in a person’s backyard in Beechwood.
“He touched the balloon down in the river, and our feet got wet; the water was up to our ankles. It was a little freaky,” admitted Cou gle, “however, knew they
Flying Spellbound Spirit III, Randy Lee travelled from Benson, North Caro lina, to attend the festival.
The Farmers & Artisans market ran from 9 a.m to 2 p.m., featuring the crafts and products of local farm ers, vendors, artists, and artisans.
mer weather helped deliver a large crowd and a festive spirit as vendors greeted shoppers.
Arts and Culture News from Western New Brunswick
ARTFELT
Angie Elsinghorst and Jenna Robichaud, from the
“It was incredible,” said Cougle. “It was so neat to see the people lined up on the roads waving to us as we passed.”
Cougle said the flight lasted approximately an hour, and at their peak, they hit a height of 1,500 feet. Their experience even included a river dip.
Theresa Hunter and Gordon Harding of Florenceville-Bristol sold custom epoxy charcuterie boards and microgreens, while local photographer Mary Anne Bailey’s display featured Carleton County landscapes.“Istudied photography right out of high school,” said Bailey, “and I always dabbled in it after that. I had a studio for a while, but now I focus on this [scenery and landscapes].”
A large crowd enjoys breakfast in support of the commu nity art education programming at the Andrew & Laura McCain Art Gallery. (Sandra Hanson photo)
Since its beginning, Carleton County native Pe ter McLaughlin has volun teered with the River Bend Balloon Festival.
“It’s the only thing that will get me up at 5 a.m.,” laughed McLaughlin. He said each balloon typically requires four to six volunteers and that when things are running smooth ly, they can have a balloon set up and launched within 25 to 30 minutes.
(Sandra Hanson photo)
Jeremy and Stephanie McFarlane could almost be considered locals – they hail from Sussex, NB.
John Viner, who flies the notorious “Froggy” known as Master Zaba, travelled from Nottingham shire, England, to attend the festival.
3.79L cans of ben* Interior premium paint, Sept 15 - 19
“I love to travel around. I am hoping to do New foundland next year. It’s a great way to meet a lot of cool people.”
Griffiths, who moved to New Brunswick from On tario, sells her crafts at Gar rison Market and travels to craft fairs and events. She attends 10 to 12 events an nually and typically has 60 items ready for each show.
Sailing over Carleton County on Labour Day weekend
Deborah Griffiths, of DeeGee Designs, makes dream catchers and feather earrings. (Sandra Hanson photo) photos
“It’s the people that bring me here,” he said. “They’re fabulous. You won’t find better people than the peo ple of Carleton County and Northern Aroostook.”
After a two-year hiatus, River Bend Balloon Fest returns to Bath
The beautiful late sum
Tobique-Mactaquac MP/ Député Richard Bragdon 1-800 richard.bragdon@parl.gc.ca-671-6160 * EI Claims, OAS & GIS * Special Occasion Certificates * And more... Thank you for the support and the opportunity to continue to serve. As always, my office is here to help with: STILL WORKING FOR YOU! Buttermilk Creek Fall festival sees large crowds More than 40 vendors take part in day-long event
A
fter missing two years because of COVID-19, the River Bend Balloon Festival returned to Bath.
Karie Young of Manic Organic Farms, whose husband Rob was work ing as a ground crew vol unteer, said they reached out to event organizers to volunteer their hay field in the event winds were not cooperating for the normal launch site.
The Village of Centreville hosted the annual But termilk Creek Fall Festival at the Western Valley Mul tiplex on Saturday, Sept. 10, featuring more than 40 vendors inside and outside the venue.
we knew we wanted to come back. We’ve been waiting [due to COVID] ever since!”
on the RVS Facebook page.
While Jeremy has been crewing for 16 years and flying his own balloon, Fire fly, for six years, Stephanie said this marks their first year attending an actual festival. They hope to at tend more next Florenceville-Bristolyear.
To further remember Mary, shop local (and, if you get it for half price, buyNOTE:two!).
In this woefully short article, the extent of things can not be fully explained. But look at the JWST SMACS 0723 im
The incredible new age of astronomy
For that matter, we do not know what “space” is.
The Facial Reflexology technique helps to re store balance and can refresh and revitalize our body’s energy system with these benefits: www.carolearle.ca 506.999.5088 • Reduce Stress • Improve Digestion • Improve Pain Level • Improve Metabolism • Relax Jaw Tension • Restore Better Emotion WOODSTOCKMINUTESNEIGHBOURHOODGREATTO
teering.Politics always played a large part in Mary’s life and led to many a spir ited debate. Mary’s keen wit and knowledge of current affairs served her well on more than one occasion.
BUILDINGLOVELYLOT
Stress, Anxiety, Trauma & Japanese Face Lifting – sessions available at –Florenceville
This proves the essential scientific, philosophical, and religious importance of astronomy.
Interment was held at the Kirk Cemetery on June 10, 2020. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, it was attended by im mediate family and old friends, plus pallbearers (25 attendees in total). Rev. Michael Goodfellow officiated.
appear. Thus, we need to look in the infrared, not the visual, to see the far thest things away. That is what the JWST does that the HST does not. But to see objects far away, one also needs a huge lightcollecting mirror. Other previous space tele scopes have observed in the infrared, but the JWST surpasses them with its huge mirror(s). Another point: the earth’s atmo sphere absorbs infrared light and distorts images. That’s why the JWST needs to be in “space.”
David Hunter is a retired medical physicist who stud ies the night sky above in Florenceville-Bristol. He just completed building a 12.5 inch reflecting telescope.
After a busy day, of ten one would find Mary on the restaurant’s ve randa drinking coffee and knitting, while vis iting with friends, both old and new. It could be said that Mary was the unofficial Ambassador of Woodstock, forever pro moting the businesses, attractions and citizens of herDespitetown. the gruelling demands of the hospital ity business, Mary found the time to become a St.
business organizations. After her retirement in 2005, she widened her circle of interests to in clude Slammers’ hockey games, travelling and more hands-on volun
of Sharp’s Mountain, NB and Andrea D. Dimock of Woodstock, NB; sonin-heart, Craig S. Dow of Somerville, NB; cher ished granddaughter, Lauren M. Cummings of Woodstock, NB; given grandson, Justin (Ali) Fry of Woodstock, ON; siblings, Dennis Dixon (Carol) of Sherwood Park, AB and Carol Dix on of Pointe-du-Chene, NB; her nephew, Rob Furlan of Teeds Mills, NB and nieces, Linda Christie (Kim) of Maple dale, NB, Danica Dixon of Calgary, AB, Cara Paul of Fredericton, NB, Virginia Paul (Sheldon Illsley) of Freemont, NH and Sandra Breston (Ross) of Mississauga, ON; a grandniece, De nise Grant (Brian) of Newbridge, NB and grandnephews, Justin
The rest is dark matter (25 per cent) and dark energy (70 per cent). We have no idea what either dark matter or dark energy is!
Mary was truly appre ciative of all the services and life-sustaining treat ments from the Canadian Blood Services, Extra Mural and URVH doctors and nurses. Thank you from our family.
In addition to her parents, Mary was pre deceased by her sister, Joyce Furlan, her niece, Deneen Dixon, and our father, Arnold.
Remember that the JWST infrared images are “co lourized.” Humans can’t see in the infrared, so the “redder” or far infrared light is shown as “red,” with the near-infrared light shown as “blue.”
Mary would not want to be fussed over – in word or action – but she truly was an amazing woman who, through her generosity of spirit and velvet core of determina tion, left an indelible mark on all who knew her.
By David Hunter
You may send me questions or article re
I t is with great sad ness and deep loss that the family of Mary Florence Dimock an nounces her peaceful passing at her home in Woodstock, on March 27, 2020. Born at her parents’ home in Lime stone, NB on December 9, 1930, Mary was the oldest of four children of the late Ivor and Elsie (Bustard) Dixon. Mary is survived by: her chil dren, Janice E. Dimock (Blair Fry) of New River Beach, NB, Brent I. Di mock (Sharon A. Sharpe)
A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Oct. 1, 2022, at Saint James United Church in Woodstock. A recep tion will follow. All are cordially invited. Wellness Centre
The successful launch (Dec. 2021) and sub sequent deployment of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) ear lier this year have made news, and rightly so. The JWST is a stunning tech nological achievement almost beyond compre hension. It is also a tri umph of the remaining free world (USA, Canada, European Union, Britain). But its success has, in some sense, been trivial ized by the popular press by showing pretty pictures with little explanation. Let it be stated that the JWST has not eclipsed the trail-
blazing Hubble Space TelescopeBecause(HST).thespeed of light is finite, it can rightly be said that telescopes are time machines. Look ing at objects that are far away, such as distant galaxies, we see them as they “were.” But Edwin Hubble discovered that the universe is expand ing. Briefly put, “space” is expanding everywhere: but note that there is no particular centre or spe cial place of expansion as is commonly depicted –there is no “centre” of the universe. This means ob jects far away from us ap pear to be speeding away from us and are “red-shift ed,” similar to a Doppler shift. They are not “really” speeding away from us; it just appears that way due to the expansion of space. The farther away objects (galaxies) are, the more red-shifted from the visible to the infrared they
“Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower.”
22 RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 23 Obituaries, Memorials & Announcements BMR Besthome Hardware & Building Supplies in Florenceville-Bristol is a proud supporter of the River Valley Sun. www.bmr.ca Linda Currie 325-8654 Dawn Peltola 470-5855 Reg McElroy 325-8631 Lorna Harris 323-8950 is looking for listings! Call today! 179 Eastwood Dr., Woodstock Come see this stunning executive! 474 Centreville Rd., Flor-Bristol Large 4-bedroom home 338 Campbell Sett. Rd., Rich. Corner 4-bed family home, close to town All Seasons Realty 655 Main Street, Woodstock (506) 325-2500 century21allseasonsrealty.ca 2946 Route 103, Simonds Custom-built Maple Leaf home Lot 585 Route 585, Newbridge Treed building lot 824 Rt. 555, Richmond Corner Farmhouse with nearly 3 acres Lot - Rt. 595 Temperance Vale Treed building lot 2244 Route 560, Lakeville 3-bed mini on foundation We have people looking for homes - fall is a great time to sell! Lot - California Settlement Rd. Nearly two acres to build on 8290 Bubartown Rd, Hartland Fully-renovated family home 1606 Rt. 540, Kirkland Newer bungalow, 5 acres THINKING ABOUT SELLING YOUR HOME? WE HAVE BUYERS LOOKING FOR PROPERTIES! CALL US TODAY! 185 Houlton St., Woodstock Totally updated, move-in ready 181 Main Street, Canterbury Tour this home on Sept. 17 16 McDade Street, Bedell 4-bedroom home Jordan Currie 323-0430 HOBBYPOTENTIALFARM PRICENEW WORKSHOPPLUS GREATVIEW PRICE REDUCED! CONVENIENTLYLOCATED Bertha Scribner 476-4281 Ron Jones 440-8312 Walter Warford 238-5065 Dani Kelly 323-0727 SUBDIVISIONPOPULAR CLOSE WOODSTOCKTO FALL IS PERFECTTHETIMETOSELLYOURHOME!CALLUSTODAY! OPENSEPT.HOUSE17 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. ALL SEASONS REALTY CLOSE EVERYTHINGTO WATERFRONT 2 ACRES Support the Meduxnekeag Valley Nature Preserve by playing our online weekly 50/50 lottery. It’s easy to play! Just go to: MRA.goplay5050.com The cost is $2 per ticket. Pay weekly or buy up to 52 weeks in advance. Draws take place every Sunday night at midnight. GOOD LUCK! 50/50
Celebrating the life of Mary Florence Dimock, 1930-2020
Break off a piece of cookie, grab a cup of cof fee and sit down with a friend or two for a cozy chat in Mary’s honour.
NIGHT SKY
quests at: quantum. hunter@gmail.com. Keep looking up!
She was a loving and devoted mother and grandmother, as well as being a loyal friend. Mary will be dearly missed by family and friends.
ownership of Stiles Motel and Home Town Restau rant in Woodstock, Mary was the consummate hostess who welcomed all who walked through the front door.
During her 32-year co-
John Ambulance volun teer, serve her Church, teach sewing, play bridge, and support a va riety of community and
For those who wish to make a donation, please consider Saint James United Church, the Carleton County Animal Shelter, Carleton County Historical Society or a charity of your choosing.
Please note that the Andrew and Laura McCain Art Gallery is host ing an “Astronomy Night” at 8 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 2, at 9 Nightingale Court in Florenceville-Bristol, near the Anglican Church. Come and learn more!
age, which I have graphi cally annotated. Realize that the bright whitish stars, with the six spokes, are “near” to us, while the distorted reddish galaxies are far away, about 5 bil lion light years away. What is amazing is the warped shapes of the galaxies caused by the Einsteinian gravitational bending of “space.” I have depicted “dark matter” as a red “blob,” which distorts the photo that accompanies this article. As the JWST confirms, modern astron omy shows that the mat ter we are made of is only 5 per cent of the universe!
Furlan (Megan) of Teeds Mill, NB, David Kidney of Fredericton, NB, Taylor Kidney of Shediac Cape, NB, Ryan Breston of Mil ton, ON and Mark Bres ton of Mississauga, ON.
Municipal reform update
AFC & Wellness Meetings
A multi-phased revital ization project has been
Give a gift that gives all year round!
RVS SUNSHINE KID
On Thursday, Aug. 25, a possible artifact was found during excavation of the arena site. This discovery suspended work briefly.
we
A subscription to ageless New Brunswick doesn’t need dusting or batteries, and there is no assembly required.
Submit photos to theresa@rivervalleysun.ca
By Sandra Hanson
If your organization would like to host the event, you need to have at least six volunteers and put up the posters. Volunteers help set up the tables, serve
“It’s an intriguing for mula,” said CAO Webber.
CCCC project update
ageless
Hartland council heard the expanded community
Council has plans to com plete the disposal within four to five years.
vehicle sales to service, whether you’re purchasing new or
From certified pre-owned, want you to be satisfied with every aspect of our sales and services, providing you with best in vehicles and the parts options to keep your vehicle on the road!
The bag contains fruits and vegetables and is usu ally worth more than $50.
pothole repairs, including, but not limited to: Riverview Drive, Hume Road, Burn ham Road, Perkins Way, Main Street, Route 107, Curtis Road, and Tapley Road. Council reviewed quotes they had received for the proposed work and voted to accept the offer from Ray’s Paving to com plete the repairs for $285 per metric tonne, plus HST.
Rusted Joints/Zoomers
GFL Environmental Ser vices of Saint John was the only company to submit a bid to dredge the lagoon.
$400 000.
24 RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 25
Community breakfasts resume, food bank deliveries, and bulk buying
Order online at agelessnb.ca, mail a cheque, or phone (506) 324-5700 or (506) 324-5711
The River Valley Food Bank will be delivering groceries on Sept. 21 in Nackawic. They will meet
Looking for the perfect birthday gift for a friend or loved one who has everything?
Celebrating 10 Years of Inspiring Stories
The AFC meeting will be at the Lion’s Centre at 10:30 a.m., and the NAW will be at MY Gym at 1:00 p.m.
days until June. There is no time like the present to get in shape and work on be ing strong, fit and healthy.
Community news from in and around Nackawic
drivers at 11 a.m. behind the Lions Centre. Please have your orders in by Sept. 19.
increase their contributions.
would unlikely receive pro vincial equalization pay ments.
There is no entrance fee, but a donation is request ed. Each month the break fast is hosted by a commu nity organization. Breakfast proceeds are shared be tween the Lions Club and the hosts. The October host is the Nackawic Area Wellness Committee.
Riverside Park Revitaliza tion Project
By Julie Stone
Community Breakfasts will begin in October on
Exercise classes begin for this group of spirited folks on Sept. 14 at 10 a.m. Classes are 45 minutes to an hour long and are held on Wednesdays and Fri
Mayor Curtis shared that in July, two loose dogs charged at a Florenceville-Bristol resi dent’s seeing-eye dog, which left the service dog incapable of performing its duties. The incident was reported to Animal Control, who could not locate the dogs or their owner. They plan to continue to patrol the area.
your sunshine kid or kids
Nackawic welcomes Marsha Nason as the new manager of the Nackawic Public Library and sends best wishes to the retiring manager, Paulette Toner.
Equalization Payments
The monthly meet ing of the Nackawic Area Age-Friendly Committee (AFC) and the Nackawic Area Wellness (NAW) will start again on Sept. 13.
the second Saturday of the month from 8 to 10 a.m.
Nackawic Public Library
New Brunswick
SUNSHINE SMILE:
The usual breakfast menu includes bacon, eggs, sau sages, beans, home fries, toast, pancakes (blueberry or plain), fruit cups, jams and jellies, maple syrup, and tea and coffee.
The Rockland Road Re quest for Proposal (RFP) was released to New Brunswick Opportunities Network (NBON). Respon dents have until Sept. 30 to submit proposals. Recently, a site walkthrough was held with one company in atten dance.The Western Valley Regional Service Com mission (WVRSC) hosted a public hearing for bylaw amendments to the area. The public has until Sept. 6 to submit comments to the WVRSC on the rezoning of the property.
To keep the cost of the dredging project within the Gas Tax Refund budget, Hartland plans to complete the lagoon dredging this year, but not the disposal.
and talk to somebody. This doesn’t seem right.”
Please have agenda items with you.
“Other New Brunswick towns of a similar size don’t have the same industrial tax base. There is no universal rate. It’s based on popula tion and tax base.”
Loose dogs charge at
“This is very time sensi tive. Budgets are required in November,” said Webber.
Mayor Tracey Demer chant“Theseagreed.numbers are the opposite of equalization. Our tax base is higher, and so are our costs, like water and road care. These are valid points that need to be presented.”
Bridge signage is un der the jurisdiction of the province. CAO Webber said staff would attempt to engage discussion and work cooperatively.
By Matthew Flemming
River Valley Sunshine Kids are sponsored by Angie’s Little Peeps Early Learning & Childcare Centre in Woodstock. Look them up on Facebook.
email from resident Lillian Warne, expressing her con cern about the lack of sig nage to indicate the bridge is one-way. Warne urged council to petition the prov ince to improve signage on the bridge to reduce the like lihood of accidents. Warne suggested installing new and larger signs just before the library to direct truckers to the industrial park.
by the first Wednesday of each month, and pick up is at My Gym on the second Wednesday of the month.
Federal, provincial funding
CAO Webber and Ken Harding met with MLA Bill Hogan to discuss the pos sibility of securing more provincial funding for the CCCC Project.
September 30th through October 2nd and will in clude a variety of art and nature-themed workshops and activities. Council voted to approve a $2 500 Festivals and Events Grant and in-kind support in the form of use of the Commu nity Hall, including tables and chairs.
Council decided this is a topic worth discussing at a higher level, noting an in creased tax base requires increased infrastructure costs and responsibilities.
Covered Bridge Signage Council reviewed an
“A child’s life is like a piece of paper on which every person leaves a mark.”
CAO Rob Webber noted that removing rock in one corner of the excavation site would require blasting, add ing an estimated two more days to complete the exca vation phase.
cantThemilestone.”delaycreated by finding a potential artifact moved the start date for foundation work. Tim Cook of Cook Construction in formed the construction committee that his firm should be ready to begin the foundation after the ex cavation work is complete.
Asphalt Patching Quotes
Coun. Walton concerned “The Town of Hartland isn’t set to receive a dime, but neighbouring communi ties are getting 2.5 million dollars,” he said. “We bet ter get on the bandwagon
If you know a child who would like to be highlighted in our regular Sunshine Kid feature, please send the photo and information to the email listed below.
See you there!
Hartland Town Council briefs
New Brunswick’s Archaeo logical Services assessed the find and concluded it was not an archaeological object, allowing construc tion to proceed.
Florenceville-Bristol Town Council briefs
In last month’s ‘In and Around Nackawic’ column, we mistakenly listed the wrong names for Volunteer of theTheMonth.Volunteer of the Month for July was Gail Farnsworth, and for August was Brian Toole. We apolo gize for the error.
Meet six-year-old Lyric Craig. The daughter of Candace Craig and stepdad Jason Youden, Lyric is a happy child who loves being outside riding her bike and jumping on the trampoline. During the summer, Lyric loves to go camping at a local campground with her family. Her favourite activitiy is swimming, and she also loves to dance! (Submitted photo)
“Everything is close to completion, and we are ex cited to be moving onto the next phase of construction,” said Councillor Lee Patter son. “I see this as a signifi
Lagoon Dredging
Mayor Karl Curtis shared with council mem bers that the estimated population of the new Town of Carleton North will be 9 114. He also noted that the draft budget would be finalized by the end of Sep tember, with the tax base rate being set in October. Meanwhile, Town staff are working on a list of budget milestones and a schedule by which they hope to ac complish specified goals.
seeing-eye dog
Visit our showroom at 323 Connell Street, Woodstock. Visit us online at www.connellchryslerdealer.com or follow us on Facebook! (506) 328-9243
Mayor Curtis shared that several streets need
Festival grant approved Mayor Curtis shared with Council that the An drew & Laura McCain Art Gallery has requested funding to assist with their annual pARTicipate Arts & Nature Festival, includ ing In-Kind support. The festival will take place from
planned for Riverside Park. Council members re viewed an updated scope for the project, which in cludes a public washroom facility with a water foun tain, bike racks, and an entry plaza, as well as an improved road, parking, and floating dock for the Shogomoc boat launch site. Council members voted to approve the $668 115.11 budget for the proj ect, which includes a con tribution from the Town of Florenceville-Bristol of
coffee and tea, and help fill plates. Clean-up support is appreciated. If you are in terested in the fundraiser, contact Gail Farnsworth at 575-8979 or 425-1200.
Community Breakfasts
Food Bank Deliveries
the
“I would describe it as a very positive meeting, but there were no hard commit ments made on numbers,” said Webber. “It’s under stood a lot of project costs post-Covid are up 10-20 percent across the country. Both governments will likely
Rockland Road Evaluation
“I have a perfect view of the bridge from my of fice, and see all of the traffic violations by tourists and residents,” said Mayor Demerchant. “We can do better as a town to ensure people know the rules.”
Bulk Buy Grocery Bags are available monthly to those who wish to register for the service. The cost of the bag is $20.00. To reg ister, put the money in a sealed envelope with your name and the number of bags you want, and place the envelope in the box in side My Gym’s door. The money must be received
There’s a process involved, but there are talks of expe diting it.”
Bulk Buying Groceries
Correction
26 RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 27 CONNECTION Sharing Stories of Inclusion, Diversity, and Community Open your heart and home to an international student attending: WHS: Nicole.Giberson@nbed.nb.ca CNHS: Brian.Muise@nbed.nb.ca HCS: Dustin.Day@icloud.com NHS: Sean.Newlands@nbed.nb.ca Contact us now for students arriving in September! BECOME A HOST! Contact us today! BUSINESS OR RESIDENTIAL OPPORTUNITY Fantastic, immaculate property! Currently a successful diary bar and restaurant but could easily become your next great home! Three halfbaths, new roof, appliances, super kitchen, and large paved parking. Deck overlooks the Saint John River with a little dock on the water. Immaculately maintained property with endless possibilities! Just reduced to an amazingly-low price of $149,900! Don’t wait! Call today! 5295 River de Chute Road, River de Chute, NB Contact Ruth Shaw Thompson Real Estate Office: (506) 392-6734 Cell: (506) ruthshawrealtor@gmail.com391-8474 Call Ruth Shaw about this or your next real estate property! With 35 years of experience at your disposal! PRICE REDUCTION!!!
McLellan’s Strawberries to home the top ATV ribbon.
Rotarian Corey Clark’s and his company offered some physical help with the“Literacyinitiative. is important, and we wanted to help with this project, so we did the post installations for them,” said Clark.
Rotaract members gathered to launch the Free Little Libraries project in downtown Woodstock on Wednesday, Aug. 24. From left, L.P. Fisher Library Board Member Mar tha McGarigle, Woodstock High School teacher Peter Belyea, L.P. Fisher Librarian Jenn Carson, Rotarian Angela Acott-Smith, current Rotaract Co-President Celine Bourque, Rotaract Past-President Rachelle Smith, Rotaract member Zack Yerxa, Woodstock High School student Brady Durling, Rotarian Corey Clark, Rotaract member Kathryn Chisholm, and Rotarian Andrew Garnett. (Theresa Blackburn photo)
TheDurling.L.P. Fisher Li brary in Woodstock also partnered with Rotaract for this project. Librarian Jenn Carson said staff will help stock the librar ies regularly.
Woodstock Rotaract takes on literacy challenge with free library initiative
The Saturday schedule included paintball, face painting and a youth talent
Woodstock CAO and Rotarian Andrew Garnet said it was easy for the town to support the initia tive.“It was a community effort, which was nice,” said Garnett. “It’s a great enhancement to have these throughout the town. It helps promote lit eracy, and the town has always supported these kinds of initiatives.”
With several parade entries, judges were chal lenged to pick winners.
show.In another homage to the past, Debec Days hosted cooking competi tions featuring chili, corn bread and pies.
Debec Tuesday Quilters were awarded best organization entry ribbon at the parade. Pat Fisher, foreground, and Joan Anderson represent the quilters.
From left, Brenda Arsenault, Abi Sharp, and Kale Moor croft served breakfast at Trinity United Church.
Photos by Tammey McLean
Prizes went to travis Lang ille for his Farmall and float in the theme category.
Debec Tuesday Quilters took the top or ganization prize, while the most comical went to Josh Arbeau for entry featuring child Kaiden Moorcroft, goat Wilbur and wagon.
Waterball was a favourite among several children st the Debec Days Festival.
The pipe band earned the best walker prize, while Grace Hamilton and Winnie earned top spot for the best horse entry.
Debec Days looked back and forward, Sept. 9 to 12, as the com munity’s recreation coun cil celebrated its past half century and prepared for an exciting and expanded future.Debec Recreation ouncil president Donna Carson said the 2022 event honoured the 50th anniversary of the Debec council.She said the event highlighted the extensive Debec Community Park upgrades planned over the next three years.
By Theresa Blackburn
From big ideas come little structures
Peter Belyea teach es the Essential Skills class at Woodstock High School. He and his stu dents took on the job of building the four little li braries.“Itwas a connection through a common friend, Eugene Craig, who is the chair of the Rotary’s lit eracy committee, that got us involved. Then there was the connection to the Interact Club at school and Rachelle. They knew our class might be able to help. So it was a pretty neat partnership,” said Belyea.The students started the project in January and finished the structures before the end of school in June. Belyea said it was a great initiative for his “Theclass. students were involved in sourcing the materials, pricing every thing out, and working with the budget. It was a great learning opportu nity. We had a few hic cups along the way, but in the end, it was a good chance for the students to build their skills and make community connections, which is what’s impor tant.”Brady Durling was one of the students who worked on the project.
Debec Days celebrates past, present, and future
Saturday’s events be gan with breakfast at Trin ity Church, followed by a parade at 11 a.m.
Before cutting the rib bon at the official launch, Rotaract Past-President Smith thanked every one involved, including Woodstock Tourism Di rector Tobi Pirie, who worked with the group in finding suitable locations throughout the town.
Rotaract Little Free Libraries are located at Connell Park, near the Woodstock Farm Market, Broadway Street, and in the play park off East wood Drive.
Carson said the chil dren’s activities took on a retro feel, with such tradi tional games as the egg walk and sack and threelegged races.
Tammy Anderson’s cornbread and Eric Ar beau’s chili and pie caught the eye, or tastebuds, of theSaturdayjudges. evening ac tivities included a beer garden with music.
details of the council’s 50yearSundayhistory.also offered a senior Zoomer exercise demonstration, a country music show, a corn boil and fireworks to close out the busy weekend cel ebration.
The Woodstock Ro tary Club provided a $1,000 grant to purchase building materials.
F or Woodstock’s Rachelle Smith, the four little free libraries now stationed around Woodstock began with a big“Weidea. wanted to sup port the Rotary’s litera cy efforts, and this just seemed like a perfect way to do that,” said Smith, who came up with the“Thisidea. feels awesome,” added Smith. “It seemed overwhelming in the beginning, but then we got all these partners involved, and we just picked away at it. I’m excited that something with our name on it will be here for the long term. It’s kind of like (this proj ect) is our first big stamp (in the community) as a club.”Smith researched the project and wanted the club’s first big ini tiative to be something that focused on literacy outreach, which is a challenge in a lot of com munities. She felt little free libraries would be a great place to start.
Rotarian Angela AcottSmith said the club is proud of its two youth di visions, Rotaract and the Woodstock High School’s Interact“Bothgroup.ofthose youth clubs are boots on the ground doing all kinds of service work,” said AcottSmith. “And it’s a great
With funding support from the provincial and federal governments, the council has already start ed the community park upgrades. Construction crews recently moved the rink building onto a newly installed foundation fur ther back in the park. The building’s expansion and improvements will contin ue this Carsonfall. said the com munity rink would move and undergo significant improvements, becoming a modular facility with a concrete base suitable for use as a rink in winter and other sports, including ten nis and pickleball, in the summer.
help for our local Rotary Club because some of us are getting a little bit older and don’t always have the time that we need to be on the ground. We are very proud of all the work that they do.”
50th anniversary festival pays homage to past, showcases park improvements of the future
Sunday’s long list of activities offered a his tory lesson in which some founding members shared
New gaming options will include cornhole equipment to introduce the popular lawn game to the community — a cornhole competition was part of this year’s Saturday after noonCarsonactivities.said the coun cil hopes to promote the game over the next few years, allowing it to host tournaments.The2022 Debec Days celebration kicked off Fri day evening, Sept. 9, with a youth dance and WI Bingo.
Erica Arbeau, left, accepts ribbons for the pie and chili contests from Debec Recreation Council president Don na Carson.
“It’s kind of a satisfying feeling to see something you’ve built do some good in the community,” said
Saturday afternoon featured a market, a bar becue and children’s ac tivities at the park.
Next spring, the coun cil will begin constructing the playground with new equipment.
Story by Jim Dumville – Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
Activity coordinator Barbara E. assists Neighbour Norma in opening and reading her card. (Jane Jones photo)
Sending Sunshine asks fellow Canadians to hand write uplifting messages
and returned our trailers and vehicles to Lower Woodstock.Thanks to our friend
Gary and Joanne, who just happened to wear rubber boots, didn’t take long wading through the water and using a chain saw to clear away the tree.There certainly was a lot of mud and water
She collaborates with in put
friends about the Grand parent Scam. Call the po lice and verify with your family or trusted friends if you receive a call request ing money from anyone. You can contact the Woodstock Police Force (day or night) at 506-3254601. If you live outside town, please call the West District RCMP at 506-3253000 during the day or 1-888-506-RCMP (7267).
Sending Sunshine is a not-for-profit business with the sole purpose of improv ing the lives of Canada’s
Yup, it was wench time! What else could we do but laugh, and that we did.I hear the comment, “is there another way around this?”
There is no such thing as too much sunshine!
this column.
IN FOCUS adults can to Pilates
Please report these scams to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre toll-free at 1-888495-8501, or report them at centreantifraude.cahttp://www.antifraudcentre-
A large round steel camp attracted our inter est. We stop to take a look. More mud, rocks,
Don and Gary will con tinue to lead our group back home via Flat Top to theWerailbed.bumble on through Canterbury and stop to enjoy mama bear and her two cubs. That was a sight to see.
One thing I really no
Dam.Twelve hours later, we arrived at Lower Woodstock, tired but hap py. The smiles tell it all. Happy trails. Stay safe!
:-) We have space, we have fun, and we do Pilates! See you soon. hannah@pilateswithpurpose.cawww.pilateswithpurpose.caWoodstock–506.328.1820 What a trek this bumble was! New Brunswick’s One-Stop-Shop for All Your Trailer Needs & More! Trailer Sales: Dump, Cargo, Utility, Equipment & Livestock Trailers Trailer Rentals: Utility, Enclosed Cargo, Car Haulers BOSS Snow Plow Sales RV & Trailers Parts Trailer Repairs & Service Financing & Business Lease Options Available Province Wide Delivery Available L & M Ventures Ltd. 213 Houlton Street, Woodstock (506) 328-2861 www.LandMTrailers.com Dr. D. A. MacElwain would like to announce the closure of his family medicine practice as of October 1, 2022. IMPORTANT NOTICE 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! 870 Main Woodstock,StreetN.B.
angry with them.
Beware of the ‘Grandparent Scam’
By Linda McHatten
ing this relationship. Many of you have already heard of the “Grandparent Scam” in the news. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre reports that in 2021 there were 379 cases with 115 victims and losses totalling $1.7 million. Halfway through 2022, there were 674 re ported cases with 273 victims and losses of $2.7 million. The real numbers are much higher because not all victims report fraud. Many are embarrassed once they realize that they have been scammed. The reality is that people fall for scams every day, and you shouldn’t be embarrassed.
Cherie Linder is an admin istrative assistant with the Woodstock Police Force. from for
If you receive a call from someone claiming to be a grandchild, or any one requesting money, hang up. Call them or their parents on a number you know is legitimate. Please do not use any numbers they provide. If someone calls and says they have arrested your grandchild, hang up and contact your local police agency. Even if the caller ID number ap pears legitimate, scam mers can manipulate the system to seem believ able. The police or court system would never send someone to your home to collect money. They would not tell you to lie to your fi nancial institution about a withdrawal or request gift cards. Please talk to your senior family members and
You have heard the phrase, “where there is a will, there’s a way.” It became clear to this group of “senager” bum blers about to adventure out on a round trip from Kilmarnock to Lower Woodstock.
To make a gloriously sunny summer even better, our Neighbours were the recipients of some special mail.
return
DON’TSCAMS:TAKETHEBAIT!
BEAUTIFULBUMBLES
No, there is not! We all managed to get through and continue.
Neighbour Gaynelle H. gives a wave and a smile. She said she enjoyed her card. (Jane Jones photo)
Linda McHatten is a retired LPN who now nurses her love for the outdoors. She and her husband live in Rosedale.
Putting the Spotlight on People in Your Community The kids return to school so that
Community Re source Officer Cst. Shaun Kimball
water and lots of laughter get us to Nackawic. We are able to drive through the town on a designated route across the Hawkshaw Bridge to connect with York West ATV Club’s trails. Then it’s lunchtime. There is a picnic shel ter at the Pokiok Water falls. We enjoy a relaxing potluck lunch listening to the water rushing over the rocks.
IN A ‘MANOR’ OF SPEAKING
beloved and highly valued senior citizens through co lourful handmade cards and uplifting messages.
Their vision is to con nect seniors living in Cana da with people from around the globe through the pow er of a personalized card.
They are a company concerned that some se niors might be feeling alone, especially during COVID restrictions.
through this Flintstone trail. And, there it was — the big water hole that sunk us!
We unloaded our side-by-sides and fourwheelers in Kilmarnock
Perched up on my seat, I looked out my door, and was not going anywhere. There goes my snack bag floating away in the water. Luckily Brian was able to grab it.
on handmade cards. They then mail them to facili ties such as the Carleton Manor.Ihappened to be at the Manor on the day that ac tivities coordinator Mirna received cards from Send ing Sunshine and distrib uted them throughout the Neighbourhoods.
Linda and some of her fellow bumblers make their way along the ‘Flintstone’ (Linda McHatten photo)
Vicki, the guys could re turn to Kilmarnock, hop on the bikes and head out on an Brianadventure.wasleading the first part of the bumble, and he was not long find ing water and mud. The Bark Road presented us with Problem number 1 — a large water hole with a tree down across it.
ticed was how the cran berries were starting to ripen.Last stop was at one of my favourite places — Benton Ducks Unlimited
By Jane Jones
By Cherie Linder
28 RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 29
You may have heard the saying, “If had known that grandkids were so much fun, I would have had them first.” A close bond between grandchil dren and grandparents is mutually beneficial, provid ing acceptance, patience, love, fun and support to one another. Sadly, scam art ists are not above exploit
Typically, this fraud in volves a caller impersonat ing your grandchild. They may know your grand child’s name by searching social media, catch you
off guard late at night or coax you into using their name. The caller sounds distressed and requests money immediately for bail after an arrest, a car accident or maybe a rob bery. Should your financial institution question a large withdrawal, the scammer tells you to give them a fake reason. They plan for someone to come to your home to collect the money. You could also be asked to purchase gift cards or prepaid cards, send a wire transfer or an online bank transfer. The phone may be turned over to a second scammer that pretends to be a police officer, doctor or lawyer who “backs up” the story. The “grandchild” pleads to the grandparent not to tell the parents be cause they will be upset or
I snapped some pics of our Neighbours opening, reading and loving each handmade card and the thoughtful message written inside.
Mirna R. catches Vaughn G. on his way to the activity centre. (Jane Jones photo)
Chris Messick, your local AMSOIL dealer is pleased to announce that located at 5 Hartland Bridge Road, Somerville
In semi-final action, Western Valley finished the 2022 season with a 6-3 loss to the eventual champs, the Fredericton Royals. Hunter Harding was back on the mound and again pitched well. He went five and a half innings and kept the Roy als off balance most of theOnegame. rough inning turned the tide for the Shiretowners, and de spite loading the bases
Western Valley U18 Shiretowners. Back row, from left, Coach Andrew Garnett, Coach Steven Jones, Isaac Jones, Ian Humphrey, Andrew Pirie, Hunter Harding, Cameron Mahar, Thomas Oulton, Cooper Jones, Isaac Sparrow, Coach Sean Jones, Coach Dwight Schriver. Front, from left, Parker Stephenson, Cole Anderson, Dawson Monteith, Kyle Gallagher, Kaden Graham, Vincent Hebert. Absent from photo: Aidan Palmer and Coach Dan Hebert. (Submitted photo)
overall game knowl edge,” said Coach Wis hart. “They learned to understand where to throw, which is just as important as catching.
30 RIVERVALLEYSUN.CA 31
Valley Refrigeration and Air Conditioning 35 Kinney Road, Jacksonville (506) 325-2204
Western Valley U9 Shiretowners enjoy playing and learning
www.buysynthetics.shopamsoil.ca
The players, ages seven to nine, were a competitive team that finished their season with a 14-10 record.
All 14 players had a chance to experience what it was like to pitch. Wishart said in terms of development, it’s es
E. Cummings Construc tion and Keenan Con struction.
The U18 Western Val ley Shiretowners fin ished their season last weekend at the NB AAA Provincials held in Fred ericton.The Shiretowners headed into the champi onship tourney after fin ishing the regular season in fourth place, with a 1010 “Therecord. biggest issue was consistency in hit ting,” said Coach Steven Jones. “We went through a stretch where our of fence let us down. Our defence was solid, and our pitching was up and down.”Jones said the only consistent starter week in and week out was senior Cooper Jones.
With 10 returning players, Western Valley looking forward to next summer
By Matthew Flemming
They got the op portunity to play teams from Sussex, Hamp ton, Grand Manan, and Fredericton. They also took part in the Western Valley U11 Rec League.
“It was a lot of base ball,” said Coach Dan Wishart. “It was amazing to see how much they improved over the sea son. Some kids could hardly throw a ball at the beginning; then toward the end of the season, they were on the mound pitching.”
Inwins.Game one of the Provincials, Western Val ley faced Fredericton, who finished at the top of the regular season league standings. Hunter Hard ing had a solid pitching performance, but it wasn’t
in the 7th, they couldn’t come back. Vincent He bert led the way with two hits and a two-run double. He also scored the third run.Coach Jones said it was overall a good sea son, and with ten return ing players, this same U18 Shiretowners squad will be a tough out next season.Fredericton defeated Kennebecasis Valley in the 2022 finals, 15-0.
“Fielding kept us in the games, along with
“This is a competitive league, but it’s primarily about teaching, learning skills and the rules of the game.”
U18 Shiretowners finish up-and-down season
Western Valley couldn’t hold on in the second game against Moncton after taking an early four-run lead. Moncton chipped away, aided by too many West ern Valley walks and
season.IanHumphrey was the team’s best hitter in the early season, and since others were off to slow starts, his bat was instru mental in some early sea son
bury area that could play competitive baseball,” said Wishart. “This is open for players outside of Woodstock. Sports is a great way for kids to make new friends from neighbouring communi ties.”Wishart said parents continually commented about the drastic im provement over the sea son.
“Watching the kids develop as players was fun, but they devel oped as teammates too, which is just as impor
sential to know what it feels like to stand on the mound.
T he Western Valley U9 Shiretowners re cently completed a suc cessful season, despite finishing the season with a 13-12 loss at the hands of their parents.
Experienced former players, including Wis hart, Jared Keenan, AJ Whiteway, Joey Trecar tin and Dexter Flem ming, formed the coach ing staff.
some critical Shiretowner defensive mistakes. An drew Pirie led the way of fensively with three hits. The final score was 7-5 for the Moncton win.
At the final event of the season, the team handed out catesout,er.ofteam,theCameronawards.Whiteway,lonefemaleontheearnedtheawardMostImprovedPlayMedalswerehandedalongwithcertififoricecream.Teamsponsorswere
is now stocking AMSOIL products. They stock several different AMSOIL products, including but not limited to motor oil, gear oil, two-cycle oil, fuel additives, ATF fluid, Hydrostatic Transmission Fluid, air tool oil, and ATV oil change kits. AMSOIL synthet ic lubricants are not just a fully synthetic oil, they are 100% Synthetic oil. They of fer the best engine protection, fuel econ omy, cold engine start-up protection, and engine cleanliness. AMSOIL is a must for turbochargers, variable valve timing, and direct injection engines. Visit the friendly staff at M&A Automotive and purchase your AMSOIL products to provide the best protection for your equipment.
By Matthew Flemming
Typically, they prac ticed twice weekly, along with doubleheaders on the weekend.
Eight of the team’s 14 players will climb the ranks into the U11 league next season. Most of the group was primar ily from the Woodstock area, and this is some thing Wishart and the other coaches wish would“Thischange.isa Western Valley team, not just a Woodstock team. There are other players up river and in the Canter
‘It was amazing to see how much they improved over the season,’ says coach
“He led the team in all pitching categories, and with the exception of one bad inning against Fred ericton, he would’ve had an ERA below 2.00.”
Leading the way offen sively for the Shiretown ers was Andrew Pirie, who was second in the league in batting average, hitting over.400. Vincent Hebert also shrugged off a slow start to the sea son, then came on like “gangbusters” through the middle and end of the
tant,” said Wishart.
enough to put them over the top, as the Royals scored a run at the bot tom of the 7th to take the one-run victory. Vincent Hebert led the way with a couple of hits. The end score was 7-6.
“As coaches, we agreed that focussing on being a good commu nicator, teammates and leaders were the most important,” said Coach Wishart.“Thenegatives would be addressed, but cheering our teammates on, and encouraging them, rather than giving them a hard time, was
A s a season wrap-up, the players enjoyed their final game of the year at their home Poole Street ball field against their biggest fans.
Front row, from left,: Carter Belyea, Jensen Dickinson, Camryn Whiteway (most improved player), Kasen Ginson, Shane Flemming, Jack Keenan, Cooper Trecartin. Middle row, from leftt: Declan Eagan, Colby Campbell, Grady Antworth, Madden Wishart, Raegan Walton, Eli Everett, Archer Whit taker. Back row, from left: Jared Keenan, AJ Whiteway, Daniel Wishart (head coach), Joey Trecartin, Dexter Flemming. (Submitted photo)
In their third game, the Shiretowners picked up the 2-1 win in extra innings over Kennebeca sis Valley. Cooper Jones went the distance, giving up five hits and walking nobody. He threw only 80 pitches in 8 innings to get the win.
SPORTS Highlights and Features of Local Sports and Sporting Events Don’t let your vehicle rust out before it wears out! Book your appointmentundercoatingnow! CALL OR EMAIL TODAY! 506.612.1093 INFO @ clarkview.ca WINTER IS COMING! The cold is easier to cope with when you have someone else handling ice and snow removal! Book your winter snow and ice clearing today! Gift someone you love with a shovel-free winter! Business or residential - we do it all!
the most important part of the game.”
32 Country STORE Florenceville-Bristol, NB
