Woodstock Police Force, RCMP on scene, citing public safety issue

The Woodstock High School is on lockdown early Thursday afternoon, Feb. 8, and Woodstock Police Force members are on scene. 

While police or the school released few details, WPF officers guard the street entrances, blocking access to the grounds. 

The officers confirmed that the police were inside the building. They said the situation was calm, but the school remained on lockdown as of 2 p.m. 

The Woodstock Police Force Chief Gary Forward issued a statement at 2:10 p.m.

“Woodstock Police Force, in partnership with the West District RCMP, is actively investigating a public safety matter at Woodstock High School,” the statement explained. “The school is currently under lockdown. We will update you when we are able.”

The Woodstock High School issued a post at approximately the same time. 

“WHS is currently under lockdown as a precautionary measure in partnership with the Woodstock Police Force as they investigate an active matter,” the post stated. We will update when we are able.”

The school followed with an update at approximately 2:45 p.m. 

“At this time, we continue to take precautionary measures to ensure safety for all. We have moved to a hold and secure, which means everyone stays in the class, and learning continues. At this time, people cannot enter nor exit the building. Please stay out of the area for the time being. We will update as soon as we can.”

The post BREAKING NEWS: Woodstock High School on lockdown Thursday afternoon first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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A homeless man who shouted at a prosecutor last week to shut up despite the fact he was agreeing to his release and who repeatedly called the judge “Mom” is back behind bars.

Abdusalam Zakaria, 51, of no fixed address, appeared in Fredericton provincial court in custody Feb. 1.

He’d been arrested and held on two charges: assaulting William Morrison on Jan. 30 and causing a disturbance at Dollarama on Prospect Street by yelling Jan. 31.

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Defence counsel for a New Maryland man accused of sex crimes against his younger sister told a court Thursday she’s still waiting on the details of the allegations against her client.

Robert Philip Warrington, 28, of Douglas Crescent, wasn’t present in Fredericton provincial court Thursday when his case was called, but Fredericton defence lawyer Spencer MacInnis was on hand to represent him.

While his address is listed as being in New Maryland, court heard previously he may be living and working in Nova Scotia.

Warrington faces charges of incest, sexual assault, sexual touching, invitation to sexual touching, voyeurism and provision of sexually explicit material to a minor.

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Mountie brass promise increased use of Nackawic detachment and officers living in the community

RCMP officers should soon be living in the two available homes in Nackawic, and the rural community can expect more significant use of the Nackawic detachment.

At the invitation of the Nackawic-Millville council, Sgt. André Lauzon of the West District RCMP Nackawic Department and West District Staff Sgt. Jeff Peters attended the Feb. 5 council meeting to respond to several community concerns about police coverage.

Mayor Tim Fox thanked the RCMP officers for attending, noting police visibility and response time remain an ongoing concern for Nackawic-Millville residents.

Peters acknowledged those concerns, noting they are common throughout the district.

“Every meeting we hear the same concerns,” he said.

Peters and Lauzon said the situation is improving, noting more staff “is coming’ to the RSC 11 region.

Peters pointed to the province’s recent decision to add 50 frontline RCMP officers, adding the RSC 11 region “did well” in the disbursement of those positions.

“We have more staff coming,” Lauzon explained.

Peters explained the current problem is getting bodies to fill those open positions.

“On paper, we’re looking good,” he said. “It’s a case of getting those positions filled.”

Peters, along with RCMP Supt. Andrew LeClair addressed the Nackawic-Millville council in September. A catalyst leading to the most recent invitation was a letter from a single mother outlining the police’s slow response to a frightening  4:30 a.m. incident at her home on Jan. 2.

“I was awakened by someone screaming and banging on my door,” the mother wrote. “This person was not looking for help, and from what I understood from what they were screaming, they intended harm or a fight,”

While trying to console one frightened child and wake the younger sibling, the scared mother called 9-1-1.

She said it took approximately 30 minutes for the RCMP to arrive, by which time the scary individual left her property.

“The concern I have is it should not take 30 minutes to get to my property when we have a vacant RCMP building with no RCMP officers to protect our town,” the mother said.

Lauzon said he understands the mother’s concern, noting calls involving home invasions, threatening circumstances, and dangerous situations get a priority response.

He said this occurred during another serious incident in the Nackawic area, requiring a team to respond from Keswick.

Lauzon explained each detachment in Nackawic, Keswick, and Minto has at least one team assigned at all times. He noted, however, that a significant incident somewhere in the large district could require officers to leave designated areas to assist.

He explained the RCMP uses the Nackawic detachment regularly.

During the September briefing to the Nackawic-Millville council, Supt. LeClair said the Nackawic detachment would be home to the district’s Crime Reduction Unit.

Lauzon said the detachment, which sits next door to the Nackawic-Millville town hall and fire station, is often occupied. Still, he noted officers frequently wear plain clothes and use unmarked vehicles.

In response to CAO Kathryn Clark’s and several councillors’ questions, Peters confirmed officers and their families would soon move into the two long-unoccupied RCMP-owned homes in Nackawic.

He expects both homes to be occupied by the end of March.

Citing the frightening experience of the Nackawic mother and other incidents, Coun. Katie Nozzoliillo asked Lauzon and Peters what homeowners should do when threatened.

“Keep yourself safe,” explained Peters. “Get to a safe part of the house.”

“Don’t engage is important,” added Lauzon. “Grabbing a baseball bat is not a good idea.

He said physical encounters often end up with the homeowner getting hurt, adding it’s a “very fine line” between self-defence and facing possible criminal charges themselves. He said the law allows only “reasonable” force to protect themselves or their property.

Peters cited as an example a woman using a weapon against an intruder to defend herself and a large, angry homeowner seriously beating or shooting a young teenage thief.

“A lot of people are watching too much American tv,” he said.

Mayor Fox asked the visiting RCMP officers whether the council could play a role in improving policing in the community, suggesting they could perhaps lobby the government.

Peters said lobbying worked in the past to get the government to enhance legislation surrounding violent offenders and guns.

While acknowledging frustration with the justice system, Peters said the courts face their own challenges. He said he would like to see more emphasis on property crime, which he tied to drug use.

Using the recent increase in copper theft as an example, he said the accused faces only theft under $5,000, but the damage they cause could cost multiple thousands to repair.

Lauzon and Peters also stressed the importance of reporting crimes and suspicious activities, noting the force using those reports to schedule patrols.

They also encourage property owners to take photos and record serial numbers and distinguishing marks to help identify stolen items. They explained that it helps to lay charges and ensure the return of recovered property.

Peters and Lauzon agreed the town could help the RCMP recruitment efforts by spreading the word about career opportunities and changes in the force’s policies.

Unlike the past, they explained, the RCMP allows new recruits to return to areas near their home.

A few members of the public attended the Feb. 5 council meeting. After their presentation, they had an opportunity to talk directly with Lauzon and Peters.

The post RCMP promises improved visibility in Nackawic-Millville first appeared on River Valley Sun.

Public input sought for renewal of NB’s Poverty Reduction Plan

Western Valley Regional Service Commission is seeking public input as it develops a strategy to reduce poverty and improve inclusion within the region. 

In a news release, the commission said that Western New Brunswick Community Development (WNBCD) will host three Community Dialogue sessions on poverty reduction and economic and social inclusion in the coming weeks.

These dialogues – taking place in Southern Victoria, Woodstock and Carleton North – are designed to encourage public discussion on ways to reduce poverty. 

Several sessions of this kind are scheduled throughout the province in February, March, and April. They will lead to the renewal of Overcoming Poverty Together, New Brunswick’s Poverty Reduction Plan.

WNBCD will host the first Western NB dialogue at the Perth Elks Hall on Wednesday, Feb. 21, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. 

It will hold the second session on Tuesday, Feb. 27, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Woodstock.

The third session, an evening dialogue, will happen from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, March 12, at the Florenceville-Bristol Community Hall in Carleton North.

WVRSC Community Development Coordinator Wendy Marr said that participants’ input is essential in developing an effective strategy that will allow the community to work on solutions that will improve the chances of success for all citizens.

“I encourage local residents from all backgrounds to attend one of the sessions and to make sure Western New Brunswick’s voices are heard,” said Marr. “Poverty reduction and social inclusion are very important topics, and we can all be involved in the development of the next five-year plan.”

She explained the New Brunswick Economic and Social Inclusion Corporation (ESIC) invites everyone to engage in the renewal of Overcoming Poverty Together. 

Marr said a comprehensive public engagement process, which includes an online questionnaire, community, sectorial and virtual dialogues, focus groups and a call for briefs on various themes, will lead to the renewal of the provincial plan. 

She said input from citizens, non-profits, businesses, and all levels of government will help New Brunswick collectively develop a focused strategy that will support the improved quality of life of families, communities and the province.

To take the online questionnaire or to find out more about the process, visit www.NBTogether.ca 

“Whether you participate in person, online or both ways, your ideas will be compiled and used to shape the next poverty reduction plan,” said Marr. 

The post Western NB Community Development to host Community Dialogues first appeared on River Valley Sun.

New Brunswick's Progressive Conservative Party is applauding the possibility N.B. Power may not be able to raise electricity rates as planned on April 1 even though that may cost the utility $32.6 million in revenue it needs to reach financial targets set for it by the Progressive Conservative government.

The New Brunswick government is searching for a location for a new treatment facility as part of plans to double its capacity and address a growing drug addiction crisis.

For Black History Month, the New Brunswick Black Artists Alliance is hosting a month-long festival featuring films by Black storytellers.

Karma is the guy at 615 Rothesay Ave. Jeffrey Dugas of Obsidian Barbers in Saint John has been fielding requests for haircuts in the style of Taylor Swift’s boyfriend, Kansas City Chiefs' tight-end Travis Kelce. (Also, the postal code for Obsidian Barbers is E2H 2G9. 2+2+9=13. Coincidence?)

More than half of frostbite cases treated by Horizon Health Network over the past two winters have involved homeless people.

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The prosecution and defence told a judge Wednesday a teenager who tried to hold up a downtown business had already served enough time in custody, and that a year of probation was an appropriate sentence.

The 15-year-old boy from Bilijk (Kingslcear) First Nation appeared in Fredericton youth court Wednesday by video from the New Brunswick Youth Centre for sentencing for numerous charges.

He and a 14-year-old boy, also from Bilijk, were arrested at the Irving gas station and Circle K Convenience store on King Street in downtown Fredericton the morning of Oct. 19 after a stolen car crashed into the entrance of the business.

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The New Brunswick Court of Appeal is set to hear arguments Friday on whether it can fix a legislative mistake by the Higgs government after no one filed to argue against the province’s position.

Join us for a special afternoon of music and treats as we celebrate five years serving the Upper River Valley

Please note that the event is free, but you must register to attend! Hope to see you there!

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A provincial court judge reserved decision Wednesday in the sentencing of the Horizon Health Network on two charges related to possible asbestos exposure of some Fredericton hospital employees over about five years.

The New Brunswick government says it is inspecting a metal recycling company's sites to see if it is now in compliance with the fire code. 

Vehicle taken from Main Street business

The Western Valley Region RCMP posted a photo of a stolen truck as it seeks public help with its investigation of the theft.

The RCMP believes the theft occurred sometime during the evening or overnight hours of Feb. 5 from a business on Main Street in Centreville.

Police described the truck as a black 2004 GMC Sierra 2500, with New Brunswick licence plate CMY 891 and vehicle identification number 1GTHK23234F195794. The truck has aftermarket wheels, tires, and cab lights above the front windshield.

The RCMP asks anyone who has seen the truck since Feb. 5 or anyone with information that could help further the investigation to contact the Western Valley Region RCMP at 506-325-3000.

Police note the public could also provide information anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at www.crimenb.ca.

The post RCMP investigating truck theft in Centreville first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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The prosecution and defence jointly recommended an $80,000 penalty for the Horizon Health Network for putting workers at risk of asbestos exposure at a Fredericton hospital.

But since the authority is an arm of the provincial government, instead of a fine, the parties proposed an alternate penalty instead: the purchase of an industry safety tool.

Regional Health Authority B, better known Horizon, previously pleaded guilty to two WorkSafeNB charges under the Occupational Health and Safety Act. over asbestos exposure risk at the Dr. Everett Chalmers Regional Hospital.

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Downtown Woodstock board believes expanded Business Improvement Area boundary will benefit businesses, customers

After almost four decades, Woodstock’s Business Improvement Area board believes it’s time the BIA serves all Downtown Woodstock commercial property owners.

The Woodstock Business Improvement Corporation (Downtown Woodstock) held an open house at Connell House on Jan. 29 to explain its plans and benefits to downtown business owners. While few people attended, BIA advisor Trina MacDonald said the board has or will contact commercial property owners to explain its expansion plans.

While the BIA includes a property tax levy of 20 cents per $100 of assessment, MacDonald said the money comes back to them through a wide variety of programs and benefits. She added that was especially true in Woodstock.

“Downtown Woodstock hits way above its weight,” said MacDonald, general manager of Business Fredericton North, who works with several BIAs across the province.

She said that the Woodstock BIA delivers a huge bang for its buck thanks to a dedicated and active board and innovative thinking, including taking the lead in securing a wealth of federal and provincial grant programs.

Since its establishment under a federal government’s Corporation Agreement in 1986, the Woodstock BIA included a section of downtown Woodstock on the north side of the Meduxnekeag Bridge. It included Main Street between the post office and the bridge, Queen Street, King Street, and portions of Connell Street, Chapel Street and other downtown streets.

The BIA hopes to expand its boundaries to incorporate a section of Main and other streets on the south side of the bridge.

MacDonald said the current BIA boundaries left southside business owners unable to take advantage of several Downtown Woodstock programs and left many customers and clients disappointed that deals and promotions didn’t extend to the other side of the river.

She explained that the BIA promotes member businesses and provides opportunities to work together to provide a functional, safe and attractive business district.

MacDonald listed only a few of the many promotions and programs the BIA championed over the past 36 years to benefit downtown merchants.

On the promotional side, MacDonald explained that Downtown Woodstock dollars allow the public to purchase unique currency to be redeemed at retailers and service providers within the BIA.

Unlike a gift card for a specific business, the holder of DW Dollars can spend them at any retailer or service provider in the BIA region. She said the public could purchase DW Dollars anytime, but the board offers two sales per year where the public can buy the dollars at a 20 per cent discount.

MacDonald explained shoppers can purchase up to $500 for $400, saving $100 in purchases from BIA retailers or professional service providers.

“We’ve seen a 97 per cent return on these dollars,” she explained, noting that’s a much higher rate of return than on typical gift cards.

MacDonald said the active BIA board heavily promotes downtown business through a robust online presence and several promotional events.

She cited the Rediscover Main Street program, funded by an ACOA grant. She explained the program financed Movies on the Meduxnekeag, David Myles in concert at Connell House and music at the Woodstock Farm Market.

It also helped fund the “Let’s Meet Downtown” campaign, which included special events at Walter’s Table, Creek Village Gallery and Cafe and other locations.

MacDonald said those and other events will continue this year, along with a unique “Shop Local” campaign, which sees 14 draws offering $100 each in Downtown Dollars to the winners. She said customers get a ballot with each purchase from a downtown business.

MacDonald said the active BIA Board of Directors secured funding for several grant programs to support downtown business owners’ efforts to upgrade and improve their buildings.

She explained that the Facade program, for example, provided funds to help business owners improve signage and brick or paint in the front of the buildings.

MacDonald said a program she described as “unique to the province” gives someone opening a new business access to funding support for interior improvements.

During COVID, MacDonald said, the BIA helped downtown businesses reopen safely by providing up to $500 in grant funds to set up plexiglass dividers or safely adjust their traffic flow.

MacDonald was joined at the open house by BIA President John Thompson, Vice President Anna Andow, and town representative Coun. Julie Calhoun-Wiilliams, explained the board works closely with the town council and staff of downtown enhancements.

She cited the new park on Chapel Street, behind the L. P. Fisher Public Library, as an example.

Calhoun-Williams praised the efforts of the BIA board, noting it works closely with the town to enhance downtown Woodstock. She said the council envisions developing the downtown business core and the waterfront into a tourist and commercial draw.

MacDonald explained that the BIA expects to decide whether to expand its boundaries by the end of February. She said it would contact all property owners and expects an immediate response.

She said the plan needs 67 per cent support from commercial property owners, noting anyone opposing the plan must respond to the BIA. She said that the BIA would consider a non-response as support for the expansion plan.

The post Woodstock BIA looks to expand to south side of river first appeared on River Valley Sun.

New program looks to connect emerging artists with established creative professionals for mentorship, advice and networking opportunities. The Jane LeBlanc Legacy Fund’s new Mentorship Engagement Program is a participant-driven pilot…

The post Jane LeBlanc Legacy Fund launches mentorship program appeared first on Grid City Magazine.

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A Cardigan man will be sentenced next month after admitting Tuesday to impaired-driving and firearms crimes stemming from events last fall.

Audie L. Peterson, 31, of Route 620 in Cardigan, located about 20 kilometres northwest of Fredericton, appeared in Fredericton provincial court Tuesday to answer to criminal charges.

He pleaded guilty to having an elevated blood-alcohol level within two hours of driving and possessing two firearms without a licence or proper authorization.

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The former University of New Brunswick women’s volleyball coach says complaints filed against him by his players were unfounded and retaliatory for decisions he made for the 2023-2024 lineup.

Richard Schick filed a notice of action and statement of claim against UNB in December, alleging his dismissal from his coaching job at the university Oct. 31 was wrongful.

UNB filed a statement of defence later in December, asserting Schick’s employment with the school was “at the pleasure” of the board of governors and that the university could fire him without cause if it so chose.

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People living in Bayswater, N.B., about 40 minutes from Saint John, are not getting Ottawa's rural carbon tax rebate top-up because the area has been deemed 'metropolitan' and not 'rural.' However people living in the provincial capital of Fredericton do qualify the rural top-up.

A nursing pathway program at the University of New Brunswick is using virtual reality to teach licensed practical nurses the skills to become registered nurses while staying in their home communities.

A 15-year-old boy has been charged with manslaughter in connection with a homicide investigation in Moncton, according to the RCMP.

N.B. Power has sold its two downtown Fredericton buildings, one of them a heritage property, for $39 million, hoping to pay off some debt and lower operating costs. 

Case adjourned a third time, ‘reasonable chance’ to settle

A 19-year-old Woodstock man charged with child luring has had his case adjourned again.

Jason Kuhndel, a former Royal Canadian Army Cadet and civilian volunteer, is charged with child luring and making sexually explicit material available to a minor with the intent to create child pornography. The charges were initially filed on Nov. 7, 2023.

In Fredericton Provincial Court on Feb. 6, 2024, Kuhndel was represented by his lawyer, Patrick Hurley. Hurley requested that the case be set aside for several weeks because he believed there was a “reasonable chance” to settle the matter without a trial.

Previously, Hurley had requested an adjournment on Kuhndel’s behalf while waiting to review crown disclosure documents on Dec. 6, 2023, and Dec. 27, 2023. On Jan. 18, 2024, Hurley again asked that the case be adjourned while they negotiate with the prosecution. This is the fourth adjournment for Kuhndel’s case.

Kuhndel was still working with Woodstock’s #318 Cadet Corp weeks after the initial charges were filed.

On Dec. 18, 2023, the River Valley Sun reached out to Alicea Richards, the Commanding Officer for the Woodstock Cadets. Richards offered no comment but referred the matter to the Regional Cadet Support Unit instead.

Jordan Elliot, Public Affairs Officer of the Unit, said, “he (Kuhndel) was removed from his duties as soon as we were notified.” Elliot also added they were made aware of the situation by Richards that same day.

Major Victor Belleville, Commanding Officer for the New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island cadets said that “it is the individual’s responsibility to notify their chain of command of any criminal charges laid against them.”

Belleville also stated “the delay in unit staff and headquarters being notified is concerning,” and that they’ll be addressing the delays with the cadet corp, squadron staff and volunteers to prevent this issue in the future.

Kuhndel is expected back in Fredericton court on Feb. 26, 2024, at 9:30 a.m.

The post Former Woodstock cadet and civilian volunteer negotiating out of court settlement first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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A judge said Tuesday while a Woodstock woman’s blood-alcohol level just barely met the threshold for an impaired-driving charge last fall, her erratic driving reflected the seriousness of her crime.

Samantha Louise Graham, 33, of Broadway Street, appeared in Fredericton provincial court Tuesday and pleaded guilty to a charge of having a blood-alcohol level in excess of the legal limit within two hours of driving.

Crown prosecutor Cathleen Trafton said police received a call the night of Sept. 9 from motorist Matthew Thornton who reported he was following an erratic driver in Hanwell.

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Building and contents lost in mid-morning fire

A mid-morning fire destroyed a private garage and its contents on Sprague Street in Grafton on Tuesday, Feb. 6. 

The Woodstock Fire Department arrived on the scene to find the wooden structure fully involved. While it remains standing, the blaze destroyed the building and its contents. It also significantly damaged an older car parked in a carport attached to the structure. 

Woodstock Fire Chief Harold McLellan said the building contained several tools, motors and lifting equipment, which would amount to a significant loss for the owner. 

McLellan said the owner had been working in the garage earlier in the morning but had left to run errands. He said a neighbour noticed the fire a short time later and called 9–1-1. 

He said the owner returned to find his garage on fire. 

McLellan said the cause of the fire remains under investigation, but it’s not considered suspicious. 

The Woodstock Fire Chief said that 2024 is off to a busy start for his fire crew, noting that the department has responded to 26 calls this year. 

He explained the calls include some structure fires, flue fires, accidents and other types of calls. 

The post Blaze destroys Grafton garage first appeared on River Valley Sun.

River Valley Cancer Support Group celebrates fun, success at annual Curl for Cancer event at Florenceville Curling Club

Crowds packed the Florenceville Curling Club on Friday evening, Feb. 2 and Saturday, Feb. 3, to share the fun and support efforts of the River Valley Cancer Support Group’s annual fundraiser.

The RVCSG’s executive, members and event volunteers wore huge smiles as the 16 participating teams and event activities raised more than $33,000.

“The 16 curling teams, plus support from 100 River Valley businesses in prize donations or financial support, helped our group raise over $33,000. Amazing.” said RVCSG secretary Tracey Johnston.

She also praised the musicians who shared their time and talents to entertain the packed curling rink on Friday evening and Saturday.

Entertainers included the Monquartet, Melissa White and Friends, Jack McAfee and Mark Reid.

Johnston also expressed appreciation to the Bath Lions Club, which provided soup and sandwiches throughout the event.

The heart of the annual Curl for Cancer event is the curlers, from novice to expert, who take to the ice for the day.

“I try to get here anytime I can,” said veteran curler David Brennan, who skipped a team at the 2024 event.

He described it as a fun event for a great cause.

The Downey team, featuring Doug, Brayden, Bryson and Mariah Downey, took home the 2024 Curl for Cancer Jim Baird Memorial championship.

John Brown and the Ladies team, including Dawn Murray, Mary Turnbull and Kathy LeBlanc, were the top fundraising team, while Brown earned the title as top individual fundraiser.

The River Valley Cancer Support Group received support from beyond the community, including representatives from Bridge of Hope in Houlton, who attended the Florenceville-Bristol event.

“We came to help,” said Kim Folsum, who was joined by Bridge of Hope members Claire Poirier, Cree Godfrey and Gene Patterson.

Folsom said their organization, while smaller than RVCSG, provides the same type of financial support to cancer patients in the Houlton area.

She said the Bridge of Hope’s primary fundraiser is an annual walk held each October.

The River Valley Cancer Support Group helps Carleton County cancer patients cover costs such as travel, medical bills and other expenses during their battle to return to good health. The organization estimates they help more than 10 people monthly.

The group can meet the high demand thanks to widespread community donations, including those who support the annual Curl for River Valley Cancer Support Group.

The post Curlers deliver thousands to cancer support group first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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The RCMP’s Western Valley detachment is turning to the public for help in tracking down a federal parolee from Plaster Rock wanted for alleged violations of the conditions of his release.

“On Jan. 9, 2024, Ryan Eccleston was released from a federal corrections facility, and on Jan. 13, a warrant was issued for his arrest for failing to comply with conditions of his release,” the RCMP said in a news release issued Tuesday.

Eccleston, 33, is described as being about 5’7” (170 centimetres) tall, weighing about 141 pounds (64 kilograms), with blue eyes and brown hair. 

He has several tattoos, including the word "Loyalty" on his neck, the words "Eccleston" and "King" on his right arm and the word "Tupper" on his ribcage, the release said, as well as a tattoo of a skull and flames on his left hand and the letters "FTP" on his back. 

The RCMP reported Eccleston might be in the Plaster Rock area.

Police warned those who may spot him not to approach him, the release said.

Anyone with information on his whereabouts is urged to contact the Western Valley region RCMP at 506-325-3000. 

Those wishing to provide tips anonymously can do so through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or submitting through Secure Web Tips online at www.crimenb.ca.

The Fredericton Independent can be reached at [email protected].

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COVID-19 and the flu have killed six more New Brunswickers, all aged 65 or older, and hospitalized 48 people, according to the latest figures from the province.

Saint John's year-old waste collection program has diverted more than double the garbage it hoped to keep out of the landfill.

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The lawyer representing a Woodstock man accused of luring a Fredericton minor online and plying that complainant with explicit material told a court Tuesday the case likely won’t go to trial.

Jason Kuhndel, 19, of Broadway Street in Woodstock, faces charges of making sexually explicit material available to a minor and luring that underage complainant online, both for the purpose of facilitating a child-pornography offence.

The charges stem from allegations in Fredericton between Jan. 1 and March 30, 2023.

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Moncton council voted Monday to insist on changes at a sewage composting operation that's been blamed for a pungent smell in the city's north end.

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A woman from the Saint John area accused of harassing a lawyer in Fredericton wants to call politicians to testify at her trial, but the judge was having none of it Monday.

Donna M. Collins, 61, of Route 820 in Upper Loch Lomond, near the port city, appeared in Fredericton provincial court to deal with several preliminary issues ahead of her trial, scheduled for March 12.

She previously pleaded not guilty to a charge of harassing lawyer Sophie Noel by repeatedly communicating with her between Jan. 1, 2017, and Sept. 22, 2022. The charge alleges it caused Noel to fear for her safety.

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A Fredericton man has developed his own approach for bringing affordable housing options to market. Jordan Hunter renovates mini homes and sells them below market value.

Fredericton’s MRTI Agency revisits one of Fredericton’s former jazz hotspots with a new performance series.  Matt Carter There was a time when live jazz performances were a regular occurrence on…

The post Jazz at Purdy’s with Geordie Haley and Dee Hernandez appeared first on Grid City Magazine.

Council awards one-year tender as it studies cheaper options for the future

“Take a deep breath,” Nackawic-Millville Mayor Tim Fox advised council members as they prepared to view the tender results for the solid waste collection and disposal. 

With garbage collection in five of the rural community’s six wards needing renewal by Feb. 1, the town faced an 86.3 per cent increase in cost over 2023. 

To reduce the unexpected jump, council opted to put the service out to tender. Even with two firms bidding to land individual contracts for each ward, the costs failed to improve significantly.

CAO Kathryn Clark explained the low bids to serve the five wards will cost the town $339,421 for 11 months starting Feb. 1, 2024. She added that compares to $206,505 for 2023. 

With the addition of Ward 3, the former town of Nackawic, which still has two years remaining on its current contract, the total waste collection bill for the year will surpass $400,000, which is significantly over budget. 

Clark said the former town will pay $60,000 in 2024 and $62,000 in 2025. She expects the price to double in 2026. 

Clark added that the waste management costs do not include the $112,000 tipping fees.  

The tender asked bidders to offer prices for garbage collected in each ward for 2024, 2025 and 2026. 

One company, Li’l Truck’ Aarons, submitted the same prices for Years 1, 2 and 3, while Fero’s prices increased significantly yearly. 

The companies’ prices varied per ward, with bidding close for 2024 in some wards, and significantly different in others. 

Li’l Truckin’ Aarons quoted $62,400 for 2024 in Ward 1 Southampton, while Fero tendered a similar bid of $63,839. Fero’s bid jumped to $74,518 in the second year and $79,734 in the third. 

In Ward 2 Temperance Vale, Li’l Truckin’ Aarons quoted $62,400 in 2024, significantly lower than Fero’s $93,674, climbing to $109,343 and $116,997 in Years 2 and 3. 

Ward 4, Millville, saw bids of $62,400 per year from Li’l Truckin’ Aarons and $83,720 in 2024, climbing to $97,735 and $104,576 over the next two. 

Fero placed the lowest bid for Ward 5, Dumfries, with a quote of $75,373 in the first year, significantly lower than Li’l Truckin’ Aaron’s offer of $93,600. Fero’s bid climbed to $88,564 and $94,764 in the subsequent years. 

Li’l Truckin’ Aarons quote returned to $62,400 for Ward 6 Queensbury, while Fero submitted a tender for $89,597 in 2024, $104,584 in 2025 and $111,905 in 2026. 

During the discussion, Coun. Robert Simpson said the council cannot avoid approving a contract for 2024,  but it should use the year to consider other options. 

Coun. Katie Nozzolillo agreed, making a motion to call on town staff to explore other options in the future. 

Council suggested that those options include determining the cost of purchasing its own truck or trucks and having staff handle waste collection. 

Clark said some municipalities used to handle their own garbage collection, noting Fredericton still does. 

Council approved a motion to accept the bids for 2024, awarding Wards 1, 2, 4 and 6 to Li’l Truckin’ Aarons and Ward 5 to Fero. 

While he understands costs are rising for all service providers, Mayor Fox said, “I don’t understand an 86.6 per cent increase.” 

Clark estimated the renewed garbage collection costs would leave Nackawic-Millville with a $176,000 budget shortage. 

The post Garbage collection costs skyrocket for Nackawic-Millville first appeared on River Valley Sun.

Fun on ice, social events and great food highlight a busy schedule

Lakeland Ridges’ rec committees offer plenty of options to pass the heart of winter. Most wards have various community activities through February and March.

Ward 1 has plans in place for its North Lake Winter Carnival on Feb. 24 at the community hall in Fosterville.

The event, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., offers indoor and outside (weather-dependent) activities for all age groups. Participation is free.

Outdoor activities include skating, sliding, scavenger hunts, fire starting, marshmallow roasting, shelter building, and snowshoeing. Or, participants can stay warm inside the community centre by playing board and card games, bridge construction, and jigsaw puzzles.

The Winter Carnival includes lunch for a donation from noon to 1 p.m. featuring chilli, corn chowder, rolls/crackers, cookies, hot chocolate, tea and coffee.

Keep an eye on the North Lake Rec Council’s Facebook page for the date and time of a March Break Movie and Popcorn event.

In Ward 2, the outdoor rink offers plenty of winter fun, while the community centre will serve a great meal with an Italian theme.

The rink will host Family Skate Day from 1 to 3 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 19. It also offers public skating on Saturdays and Sundays from 1 to 3 p.m. Depending on conditions, the ice is free for use at other hours.

Plans are already in place for Debec’s annual Redneck Curling event on March 16. Find a broom of any kind, get out the best Redneck uniform and register a team to participate in the fun event.

As always, event organizers will provide the full washer jugs to use as curling rocks.

Participants can register a team of four for $125, with prepayment required between March 2 and 9. eTransfer is available at debecrec@gmailcom.

Lovers of Italian cuisine should set a date on Saturday, Feb 24, to head to the Debec Community Centre for “Italy Comes to Debec.”

Organizers will host two seatings on the day. The first is from 4 to 5:30 p.m. and the second is from 6: 30 to 8 p.m.

The menu includes spaghetti, meatballs, Caesar salad, beverages and dessert. The $15 tickets must be purchased in advance. They are available at the Debec General Store, through a Debec Rec Committee member or by calling 506-277-6717.

Ward 3, which includes Benton and Meductic, provides plenty of socializing opportunities through February and March.

The Benton Community Centre hosts “Coffee and Chat” every Monday at 10 a.m.

In Meductic, the fire department will host the Meductic Fireman’s Breakfast from 7 to 10:30 a.m. at Meductic Community Centre. Cost is by donation.

Meductic will also present a Family Movie Night at the community centre from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on March 8.

For Easter, Meductic offers an Easter Colouring Contest from March 20 to 27 and an Easter Egg Hunt on March 30 at the Meductic Community Park.

On every second Tuesday evening (Feb. 20, March 5 and 19), the Meductic Community Hall offers Bingo.

In Ward 4, the Canterbury area, the Canterbury Ladies Auxiliary hosts its annual fundraising Valentine Tea and Silent Auction from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Canterbury Community Centre. Tickets are $8 for the event, including entertainment, sandwiches, and sweets.

The post Winter activities in Lakeland Ridges first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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A Dartmouth, N.S., man accused of sex crimes against his own daughter is headed to trial in the Court of King’s Bench, having elected Monday to have his case heard at the higher level of court.

The 57-year-old defendant wasn’t present in Fredericton provincial court when his case was called Monday, but defence lawyer Edward Derrah appeared on his behalf, noting that a designation of counsel had been filed with the court to allow him to do so on the indictable charges.

The defendant is accused of sexual assault, incest and sexual interference, all purported by RCMP charges to have occurred between Jan. 1, 2019, and Sept. 30, 2022, in the Coles Island area, east of Fredericton.

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A former gas station that was once a Fredericton fixture was demolished Monday morning.

The Fredericton Police Force is looking for suggested candidates for a crime-prevention award named for a late officer who made a difference through his role in community policing.

The city police force issued a news release Monday announcing that nominations are open for the Cpl. Craig Bailey Crime Prevention Memorial Award.

Established by the Fredericton Community Crime Prevention Council, the award spotlights the actions of citizens, volunteers and police officers in the capital who contribute to crime prevention initiatives to make the city a safer place.

The award is named in honour of Bailey, who served as a member of the Fredericton Police Force from 1984 to 1998, the release said, and he made his mark in his role as a community policing officer.

“The Fredericton Police Force acknowledges the significance of partnering with the community on crime-prevention initiatives,” the release said. 

“We seek nominations for individuals who go above and beyond to contribute to Fredericton as a safer community through their efforts around police-related crime prevention.”

To qualify as nominees, those being submitted for consideration have to be a resident of the Fredericton area; be a city police officer, auxiliary officer, citizen or group who work directly with the Fredericton Police Force on crime-prevention initiative; and have demonstrated their commitment with noteworthy contributions in terms of time, support or resources to a police force program or initiative focused on crime prevention within the past two years. 

Nomination forms can be found here.

Completed forms must be received by Feb. 26 at 4:30 p.m. They should be sent by email to [email protected] or by regular mail to the Fredericton Police Force, c/o Police Chief, 311 Queen St., Fredericton, N.B., E3B 1B1.

The Fredericton Independent can be reached at [email protected].

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A southeast New Brunswick man will go on trial late next year on charges alleging he killed his spouse and dismembered her body.

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A Minto-area woman and a Fredericton man set to stand trial more than a year from now on a murder charge will first be tried for drug-trafficking and firearms counts alleged to have happened after the homicide.

Erica Lea Ann Blyth, 41, of Wasson Road in Newcastle Creek near Minto, and Devon Mark Hill Hood, 26, of Veterans Drive in Fredericton, appeared by telephone in the Court of King’s Bench at the Burton Courthouse on Monday.

It was motions day in King’s Bench, and the pair’s trial dates were to be set and confirmed.

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Warning: This report includes graphic details of sexual crimes against minors.

A Fredericton man who lured teenage girls into sexual encounters with promises of vapes and booze, and another with threats of extortion, is headed to prison.

For how long will be determined in the coming weeks.

Firas Alobaid, 22, of Needham Street, appeared in custody and in person at the Burton Courthouse on Friday for his sentencing hearing.

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Several crops in New Brunswick including potatoes, blueberries, apples and cranberries depend on snow for moisture and protection from extreme temperatures. The insulating layer can prevent fruit from drying out and being destroyed.

N.B. Power is appealing to the New Brunswick Energy and Utilities Board to save it from a "deleterious" financial loss caused by the Higgs government blowing up months of its corporate budgeting last fall.

Maritime Snowmobile Championship Racing will pay tribute to late Red Buckingham as it returns to Connell Park Raceway

By Bob Fowlie

When Maritime Snowmobile Championship Racing returns to Woodstock’s Connell Park Raceway after a 42-year absence, the memory of Leighton “Red” Buckingham will be honoured with racing in the 440 class and the awarding of the Red Buckingham Memorial trophy to the most sportsmanlike driver.

Born in 1928 and raised in Woodstock, Red was part of the legendary Woodstock Red Raiders basketball team, the squad that won the Canadian Juvenile Championship in 1946. Steady Reddy was the nickname given to him by coach Bob Brown.

A tribute written after Buckingham’s death described him as “a special sort of person who sunk warm spots of memory in your mind that you didn’t really realize were there.”

Buckingham’ ’s daughter, Gail Lipsett, says her dad’s “quietness and modesty became him. Even though he was easygoing, as a salesman, he was trustworthy, and that made him a good businessman. Steady Reddy served him well in business and sports.”

Buckingham was very much a trailblazer in snowmobiling (no pun intended) and a pioneer of snowmobile racing in Woodstock.

Bombardier launched the first Ski-Doo in 1959, and in 1967, Red’s Service Centre opened, dealing in snowmobiles and, in particular, Bombardier Ski-Doos.

It soon became a hub of business for snowmobilers. Sledders from all over New Brunswick and Maine came to have their sleds serviced and to purchase new Bombardier machines and clothing.

Lynn Avery, a member of the committee organizing the rebirth of racing and a racer herself, remembers Buckingham’s shop with fondness.

“It was busy as could be and as a kid who loved snowmobiling, the greatest way to spend time,” she said. “Downstairs in the shop I watched and learned as Donnie Derrick and others changed out pistons and tuned up sleds.”

Given how snowmobiles were Buckingham’s business, it was only natural the sport became his passion.

Not only did he participate in races, but he and his friends were known for snowmobile outings. A couple of excursions took them across New Brunswick, no small thing as the province’s excellent groomed trail system of today did not exist back then.

Being a Woodstock Y’s Men Club member, he was instrumental in starting the Maritime Snowmobile Championships here in Woodstock in 1969.

Buckingham’s racing participation was in the 440 class on a 440 Ski-Doo Blizzard Free Air.

After Red’s death in March of 1971, the Woodstock Y’s Men created the Red Buckingham Memorial trophy for All-Round Driver, which became known as the most sportsmanlike driver.

First presented in the 1972 races — again, right here in Woodstock — Red Buckinigham’s family wanted to reinstate the trophy in his honour and memory.

They look forward to presenting it at the races when they roar back to life Feb. 16 to 18 at the Connell Park Grandstand and Raceway.

You can be sure it’s what Red would have wanted.

The post Racing event to honour Woodstock snowmobile pioneering legend first appeared on River Valley Sun.

The terms 'federal penitentiary' and 'family friendly neighbourhood' aren’t usually used in conjunction with one another.

The Charlotte County Archives are sharing digitized home movies from the 1900s with the community.