The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure says it hopes to have a key transportation link in St. George will be repaired by the end of January.

A truck struck the bridge on Brunswick Street in October – forcing the DTI to close the bridge to traffic – due to significant damage to the bridge’s trusses.

Eastern Charlotte Mayor John Craig said the bridge closure had impacted the community, with a lengthy detour to cross the Magaguadavic River.

The bridge is under the provincial government, so the municipality has no authority over the timeline of repairs.

“Engineers have to stamp it and say okay it’s safe to go across,” Craig said in an interview. “They got a plan, they got the products coming to fix it.”

Craig wrote a letter to the province on behalf of the council explaining the urgency surrounding the bridge repairs, especially for the fire department.

“When (the department) gets a call on the other side of town or even go to St. Andrews to help they have to backtrack, go back onto the highway and go right around St. George on the highway, and then come back in, so that adds an extra 10 minutes,” Craig said.

The Department of Transportation and Infrastructure said work is underway.

“Repair work recently began and requires the replacement and straightening of the damaged sections,” said DTI spokesperson Jason Hoyt.

Freed anti-whaling activist Paul Watson, who grew up in St. Andrews, New Brunswick, has returned to France after five months in detention in Greenland due to an extradition demand from Japan. Watson discusses his time in prison, his desire to return to Canada, and what’s next for his activism with CHCO-TV’s Vicki Hogarth.

Original Broadcast Date: December 26, 2024

NewsBreak26 is an original CHCO Television production produced on location at the CHCO-TV studio in St. Andrews, New Brunswick, Canada.

Join CHCO-TV as we look back at all the performances from the Santa’s Helpers telethon and watch the entire Charlotte County Country Christmas Parade in St. Stephen. Hosted by Vicki Hogarth and Jonathan Brittain.

Saint Andrews Mayor Brad Henderson and community volunteer Agostino McNeil sit down with CHCO-TV’s Vicki Hogarth for a look back at 2024, and a look ahead to 2025.

Original Broadcast Date: December 23, 2024

Your Town Matters is an original production of CHCO-TV filmed on location in Saint Andrews, New Brunswick, Canada.

The new year is on its way and it is time to prepare. Resolutions are good, but rarely are they kept. That is why it is important to set strategic goals to follow through with in the New Year so you will have a plan. Individuals who break down their goals into timelines and steps have a better chance of obtaining their goals.

Before you begin goal setting for the New Year, think about a theme or a word you want to represent 2025. We all have ideas of what we want our lives to look like, and it helps when setting goals if you have a vision in mind. When thinking about this word or theme for the New Year remember to set goals that aren’t so big that you will try to make too many changes at once. It is good to stagger your goals throughout the year to keep on track. 

There are different methods of setting goals, most commonly the SMART Goal system. However, there are other ways you can map out your goals for success. You can map out your goals using who, what, when, where, why, and how.

Let’s look at how to map out your New Year’s goals using this method:

1. What – What is your goal? What significance does it have in your life currently and in the future?
2. Why – The why is the most important, you must know why you want to achieve your goal to keep moving forward. It is your motivation. 
3. Who – Who will your goals affect or who will need to be involved? For example, who do you need to contact, or will the goal you are setting affect your family, partner, or friends in some manner?
4. When – When do you want to achieve this goal? What are your milestone timelines?
5. Where – Where will this take place? Is it in your home, at work or does it involve travel? 
6. How – This is where you break down your goal into smaller pieces. Create tasks with deadlines. Think about your timeline and when you want to achieve these goals. Also, think about what you will need to achieve your goal. Will it be finances? Education? Making new habits or creating new connections? 

Each goal should be separate when using this method. Breaking down your goals into bite-sized pieces and celebrating each milestone no matter how small can be motivating and will help you work towards your intended outcome. You are more likely to achieve a goal if you write it down and revisit your goal regularly.

Jennifer Bouley is a Career Development Practitioner located in St Stephen. She has a passion for helping others find wellness in their careers, while finding fulfilling jobs. She is the owner of Bliss + You Coaching. Jennifer can be reached at [email protected].

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A New Brunswick man will be back before a court in a few weeks to answer to criminal charges stemming from an injurious accident in Harvey last month.

Zachary Sarchfield, 30, of Mainstream Road in Mainstream, about an hour’s drive northwest of Fredericton, and near Hartland, appeared in Fredericton provincial court by telephone from the Saint John Regional Correctional Centre on Friday.

He was scheduled to elect mode of trial and enter pleas to counts of dangerous driving causing bodily harm to Christina Ballard, leaving the scene of an accident, possessing a stolen 2024 Yamaha Griz belonging to Tristen Little, and breaching a release order by failing to follow the requirements of the electronic-monitoring program and to observe a nightly curfew.

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New impaired driving rules in New Brunswick taking effect Jan. 1 introduce immediate roadside suspensions and penalties. Police say the changes will reduce the number of court cases by avoiding criminal charges in some cases, while still acting as a deterrent.

Volunteer dinner honours those who serve our community and Jacksonville Baptist Church mission, which has taken God’s work to struggling children for over 16 years

Between March 3 and 11, 2025, more than two dozen people associated with the Jacksonville Baptist Church will head to the Dominican Republic to continue a decade and a half of God’s work in one of the nation’s impoverished communities. 

Working with local pastors and volunteers, the Baptist Mission will continue its support of “Johnny’s Orphanage” and various projects to improve the lives of hundreds of children. 

On Nov. 16, at a special TO POSTdinner, partially sponsored by the Carleton Co-Operative Funeral Home and prepared and served by many mission participants, members of the Woodstock area service community learned details about the Dominican Mission. 

Carleton Funeral Home director Arthur Smith welcomed guests to dinner held at the Jacksonville Baptist Church, noting the evening was designed to pay tribute to first responders and others who serve the greater Woodstock community and to share information about the long-running and successful Baptist Mission. 

“As a co-operative, we give back to the community,” explained Smith. 

He explained that the funeral home’s mandate goes beyond providing funeral services and care for grieving families. It provides funding for non-profit groups such as the Baptist Mission. 

Smith explained the funeral home sponsored the dinner and would help Hayward House Woodstock provide Christmas dinner for struggling members of the Woodstock area community. 

He added the business also provides three annual scholarships for area students. 

Smith said the Nov. 16 dinner focused on informing people about the Dominican Mission’s tremendous work. 

Following a traditional Christmas turkey dinner with all the fixings and a wide selection of desserts prepared and served by mission members, Mark Graham and Duane Stephenson offered a detailed overview of the mission’s Dominican efforts. 

Stephenson explained that the Baptist Mission has worked with local partners in the Dominican Republic for the past 16 years, with a central focus on operating and expanding Johnny’s Orphanage. 

He said mission volunteers enjoy the many success stories over the years, especially watching the struggling orphans “grow up, get jobs, get married and raise a family.” 

He added that these good young Christians are trying to make a difference in their community. 

The Baptist Mission wants to build an addition to the orphanage this year to provide a separate dorm for the girls. 

Under Wayne Page’s leadership, the mission’s outreach also involves projects beyond the orphanage, including events, games, trips for children, and conferences to train local pastors. 

They acknowledged that the Dominican village, which lies close to the Haitian border, sees and feels the political upheaval overrunning Haiti. He said, however, the border is tightly controlled. 

The Baptist Mission leaders explained 100 per cent of its donations are directed towards the mission’s work. He said the mission volunteers pay their own travel costs. 

During the presentations, which included numerous photos, the mission spokespeople said the Jacksonville Baptist Church welcomes volunteers from other churches and areas. They noted that such participation often leads to establishing separate missions in different communities, citing separate efforts in Florenceville, Nackawic, and Miramichi as examples. 

Stephenson said the Baptist Mission is there to help locals build infrastructure and services to support the local population. He said the Dominican government will partner with the mission on some projects. 

“We don’t take over, we’re there to help them,” said Stephenson 

The post Baptist mission prepares to return to Dominican Republic in March first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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A Fredericton teenager has been missing for several days, the city police force advised Sunday, as it sought information from the public on the youth’s whereabouts.

The Fredericton Police Force advised on social media Sunday evening that officers are on the lookout for Izabella Brown, 15, of Fredericton.

“Izabella Brown was last seen on Dec. 24,” it said in a Facebook post.

“Efforts have been made to locate Izabella Brown, however, they have been unsuccessful.”

The teen is described as being about 5’6” tall, weighing about 125 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.

The youth was last seen wearing black-and-red checkered pajama pants and a red winter jacket, and carrying a green book bag.

Anyone who’s seen the teenager is urged to call the Fredericton Police Force at 506-460-2300.

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

Tipsters can cite police file no. 24-30190.

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

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Following an Atlantic Liberal caucus meeting the morning of December 23, caucus chair Kody Blois wrote a letter to Trudeau calling for him to resign as party leader

Keith Cronkhite, the CEO of N.B. Power who was fired in July 2022, was the province's top-paid public servant in 2023. He earned between $575,000 and $599,999 that year. The information was released as part of a list of all government employees making over $80,000 in the previous year.

Dedicated Nackawic-Millville volunteer Brian Toole presented with the 2024 Ron Berube Volunteer of the Year Award

Since moving to the Nackawic area in 1990, Brian Toole has spent decades dedicating his time and energy to the benefit of the community. 

At the Nov. 16 council meeting, Nackawic-Millville Mayor Tim Fox recognized Toole’s efforts by presenting him with the 2024 Ron Berube Volunteer of the Year Award. 

After listing Toole’s many contributions over four decades, the mayor presented him with the plaque.

“Brian, you’ve made a significant contribution to this community and for these reasons it is my pleasure to present you with the 2024 Ron Berube Volunteer of the Year award on behalf of our council and community. Congratulations,” Fox said.

Toole called the recognition an honour as council members lined up to congratulate him. 

Fox explained Toole was a member of the Nackawic Lions Club for 40 years, “serving in pretty much every leadership capacity that he could, helping to support and organize Christmas Daddies, breakfasts, barbecuss, Club 300 dinner and ongoing maintenance of the Lions building.” 

He said Toole spent 10 years as a Boy Scout leader and an active church member. He also volunteered to help groom the trails of the area’s cross-country ski club. 

Fox noted that Toole spent three terms on the former Town of Nackawic council. He explained that his service delayed his recognition as Volunteer of the Year, noting that council members are not eligible. 

“His support for our community has been unwavering, even when his health was not at the best,” said Fox. 

The mayor explained that the Ron Berube Volunteer of the Year Award is given annually to an individual who contributes significantly to the Nackawic-Millville Rural Community. 

Fox noted Berube won the first Volunteer of the Year Award in 2003. 

“Ron’s volunteer activities in the community have demonstrated a lifetime of caring and his quiet and unselfish efforts on behalf of youth, seniors, the disadvantaged, and the marginalized is his legacy to the Nackawick and Millville areas,” said Fox. “He is, and continues to be, a symbol to all residents because of his dedication, commitment and selfless volunteerism.”

The post Former Nackawic councillor recognized for decades of volunteer efforts first appeared on River Valley Sun.

A large wind farm proposal from J.D. Irving, a first for the company, has been given approval by the province to proceed.

A mayor in southeastern New Brunswick announced his resignation Friday afternoon, partially putting blame on the provincial government.

RCMP say a 77-year-old man died Friday in a two-vehicle crash near Sackville, N.B.

The Cumberland family has always been connected to forestry, but they’re gifted in timber sports. 

Ben and Nathan Cumberland won bronze in France in November at the STIHL Timbersports World Championship alongside the two other New Brunswickers on the team, Nicholas Russell and Marcel Dupuis – known as the “beast from the east.” 

“The STIHL timber sports is sort of like the Olympics of the lumberjacking world,” said Nathan Cumberland. 

The two boys were coached by their father, Rod Cumberland, who is known in Charlotte County as the ‘Charlotte County Chopper.’ Both of them said training for these events is a big commitment. 

“This year leading up to the championships, it was a lot,” said Ben Cumberland, who also won the bronze medal in the individual all-around competition. “Of fine-tuning, working on my mental aspect of competing … But I watched a lot of videos and techniques. World-class choppers and sawyers and trying to pick up things that I could do. Obviously, there’s the fitness aspect, so I was in the gym as much as I could.” 

The two brothers are just 18 months apart, leaning on each other as teammates and competitors. 

“We were very blessed to be close in age and it was always a friendly rivalry,” said Nathan Cumberland. “We’re watching the other person saying, okay, maybe try this technique … just helping the other person. And then it shows. It’s great too because we can help each other at different events and even at the worlds too.” 

Nathan and Ben are accomplished timber sportsmen, winning multiple individual and team championships and medals. 

Their father, who taught them the love of timber sports, also competes but is mainly there to support the two in their fight for the championship. 

“It was a comfort and a relief knowing that, okay, we walk off the stage, we’re handing him our axes and then we come back to mark off our blocks,” Nathan Cumberland said. “We know they’re sharpened and ready to go and we can go back on the stage.” 

Rod Cumberland is proud of his two sons. 

“For me, the proudest thing is doing this as a family,” he said. 

He recalls a woman, from Switzerland, who organizes some of STIHL Timbersports events saying she’d finally met his two boys. 

“She said: I finally met both of your boys … and they’re good competitors, but they’re really nice people. That’s what matters to me. They’re good human beings,” Rod Cumberland said. 

All three share a strong love of family – including their child who they saw are starting to practice their own competition skills – at home – with toy saws and axes. 

Canada beat out New Zealand in the final round, securing third place in the Team World Championship 2024 – in Toulouse, France. All of Team Canada was from New Brunswick. 

Kwanzaa decorations in New Brunswick have to make a long journey to get to the province. They're usually flown in from Ottawa or Halifax, where there are more African stores.

Students in UNB professor Kelly Miles’s class can earn an extra point toward their final grade by donating two cans of cat food, which has helped Miles provide hundreds of dollars worth of cat food to Fredericton animal shelters annually.

Woodstock Council looks to establish working partnerships with significant tourism events 

Woodstock Council has directed town staff to finalize a partnership agreement with the Maritime Snowmobile Championship Racing as a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). 

The MOU will detail the town’s services and other financial support for the February racing event at the Connell Park Raceway. 

Last February, snowmobile racing returned to Woodstock after several decades of absence, delivering a weekend event that proved a significant draw for snowmobile racing fans and a boon to the local economy. 

The council hopes the MOU serves as a guide to help the town promote other tourism-focused events, such as the annual bass tournament and the Hook and Paddle fishing event. 

During the Nov. 26 regular council meeting, Woodstock CAO Allan Walker shared a list of requests from the MSRC organizers to the town as it prepares for the 2025 racing event on Feb. 14 to 16.  

The list included using the AYR Motor Centre’s Gallery Room, Sam’s Room and Studio 2 for race-associated events. It also requested Woodstock’s public works staff remove snow from the race track infield and surrounding parking lots, handle the placement of portable bleachers from Fredericton and nearby ballparks at the race track, and water the ice-covered track for racing. 

Walker explained that the most significant request involved safety-related issues, including removing three trees near the track and lowering a wooden fence around the track. 

The CAO explained that most of the MSRC requests are similar to last year, which public works and recreational staff can easily accommodate. He said the town will pay the industrial rate for flooding the track with the cost included in its calculations. 

Walker estimated that the in-kind contributions to the event would total an estimated $14,000, with the tree removal constituting most of the costs. 

He explained that a specialized contractor would be needed to ensure the safety of at least one of the three large trees. He added that, per its policy, the town will plant three trees at another location to replace the three lost trees. 

Walker said that meeting the request for changes to the fence will require further study, noting town staff already met with the MSCR committee, the Woodstock Racing Club and Horse Racing New Brunswick to review the fence situation. 

“Staff is recommending we do something there, but we just need to clarify what it is,” he said.  

Mayor Trina Jones said the MOU with the snowmobile racing committee will outline how the 

“We know it’s a huge economic spinoff for the whole community.,” she said. 

Jones explained the ongoing discussions would include an analysis of MSRC’s request for sponsorship, which could range from $500 to $20,000. 

She explained that town staff would look at various means to support and promote the event, suggesting that changes to the town’s banner policy could provide options in lieu of a cash sponsorship. 

She explained that the revamped banner policy, which was also discussed at the Nov. 26 council meeting, could provide options for promotion with specialized banners. 

She explained the new banner policy is looking at using banners beyond downtown Woodstock. 

Jones explained that staff believed there was enough time to install promotional banners along Connell Road, leading visitors from the highway to the Connell Park Raceway. 

The council ended the MSRC MOU discussion by passing a motion directing staff to create an MOU. 

The post Town finalizing MOU with Maritime Snowmobile Championship Racing first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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While rejecting a Crown argument for the maximum jail term, a judge said Friday a cab driver’s “predatory behaviour” toward a vulnerable fare required a sentence that denounces his breach of trust.

Akram Al Khalifa, 38, of Hawkins Street in Fredericton, was back before Judge Scott Brittain in Fredericton provincial court to hear his decision on sentence.

The offender was found guilty after trial of summary counts of sexual assault and an indecent act that he perpetrated against a woman in his cab in Fredericton on March 12, 2022.

Evidence at trial showed Al Khalifa picked up the intoxicated woman - whose identity is protected by a court-ordered publication ban - that night.

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A release said first responders were called about an unresponsive, severely injured woman lying in the 600-block of Lancaster Avenue.

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A Fredericton Junction man awaiting trial with another defendant on a January allegation of cocaine possession for trafficking purposes now stands accused of doing it again this fall.

Troy Jason Campbell, 53, of Sunbury Drive, elected earlier this year to be tried in provincial court and pleaded not guilty to Jan. 31 counts of possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, possession of stolen property and possession of a prohibited weapon, a set of brass knuckles.

He’s charged jointly on those counts with Eric Matthew Henry, 35, of Forest Hill Road in Fredericton, who also denied the charges. Their trial is scheduled for Aug. 15.

But Campbell was back in Fredericton provincial court Friday to answer to a new charge.

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A Fredericton man accused of assaulting his partner and then violating an order to have no contact with her or their kids denied the allegations against him, and might represent himself at trial.

Kaleb Vernon Mathews, 31, of no fixed address, previously elected to be tried in provincial court and pleaded not guilty to serious allegations of domestic violence and breaches of conditions.

The charges against him include Jan. 15, 2023, counts of assaulting Lindsay Mathews, choking her to facilitate the assault and possessing a knife for the purpose of committing an offence; April 6, 2023, counts of obstructing a Fredericton police officer in the execution of his duty and violating a police undertaking barring him from having any contact with the complainant and their kids; and three counts of failing to attend court, all alleged to have occurred in 2023.

His trial on all charges is set for Oct. 15, 2025.

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Generations before us knew how to eat well with little money.

Anyone who lived through the Great Depression and World War II knew how to make a dollar stretch and prepare frugal yet deliciously satisfying meals.

Everyone grew vegetables in kitchen gardens. Many had a cow for milk, cheese, and butter. Most raised chickens for meat and eggs. Some hunted wild game and fished for seafood. Much of this food was preserved through pickling, smoking, and salting, which sustained families through the long, cold winters until spring arrived when the cycle of growing, preserving, and storing foods started once again.

Parents and grandparents taught children these skills. At an early age, they learned that their vegetables came from the soil. They understood that the chicken, beef, venison, and fish they ate were once living creatures.

In this weeks Grocery Ninja, Stewart discussing the preservation of foods.

It saddens me that many of us have lost the skills of self-reliance regarding food. I am certain that the foods grown and preserved by our ancestors were nutritionally superior to what we are eating today, much of which is shipped thousands of kilometers before it reaches us.

Fortunately, many are rediscovering food preservation methods and using them to build food storage pantries. There’s nothing more satisfying to me than going into my pantry and looking at the foods I have canned over the summer and fall to enjoy throughout the winter months.

Last week, I found a great deal on plums that were half-price. I decided to buy them and make homemade plum sauce. Six bottles are now in my pantry, ready to enjoy with egg rolls. Each jar cost me $1.50 to make. I’ve never made it before, but I will again. This homemade version is far superior to any store-bought version.

According to safe food preservation guidelines, high-acid foods, such as jams and pickles, may be preserved in a water bath canner, which reaches 212°F. Low-acid foods, such as meats and vegetables, are only safely preserved using a pressure canner, which reaches between 240–250°F. While I am comfortable using a water bath canner, I have yet to use a pressure canner. I am told they’re perfectly safe provided you follow the canning process guidelines, although an irrational fear of blowing up my kitchen is stopping me from trying it.

I do dehydrate and freeze foods often. Soon, I want to learn the art of food fermentation. Kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir, kombucha, and yogurt are examples of fermented foods. According to nutritional research, these foods aid digestion and improve our immune systems by introducing beneficial bacteria into our bodies.

Whether we grow our own food, buy from farmers’ markets, or shop at grocery stores, it’s possible to ensure food security by building up a food storage pantry over time.

When you see a sale on items you routinely eat, stock up on as much as will fit into your grocery budget. You’ll be surprised how quickly a food pantry can grow. Even if you buy a little at a time, you’ll build your food storage while saving on your grocery bill because you won’t be paying full price, and you’ll have what you need when you need it

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A Fredericton man accused of a long list of firearms-related offences denied those charges this week, and his two-day trial was scheduled for more than a year from now.

Christopher Andrew Manuel, 39, of Mason Avenue, appeared in Fredericton provincial court with defence counsel Michael Mallory on Monday.

He was there to answer to nine indictable charges.

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Premier Susan Holt is defending what now appears to have been a carefully ambiguous election promise to balance the provincial budget in every year of her mandate.

Optician Ciaran McCarthy collects and sells vintage eyewear out of a historical building in Moncton. He started collecting old eyeglasses frames for personal use but now has about 400 pairs at his shop.

Tradition continues in village of Perth-Andover

The beautiful balsam fir that served as a centrepiece for a family Christmas celebration needn’t be a community eyesore after the holidays.

Rotarians in Perth-Andover will continue their post-holiday tradition of helping to dispose of natural Christmas trees in the community on Saturday, Jan. 4.

Club members will help residents dispose of Christmas trees in an environmentally friendly way, transporting collected trees to the Southern Victoria public works compound and later chipping them into mulch to be used by the community.

Rotarian Rhonda Kennedy said the club has gathered up discarded Christmas trees in the village for over 25 years.

“The tree pickup is a great way for the club to help our friends and neighbours put their former Christmas trees to good use,” Kennedy said.

Residents are asked to have their trees at the curbside by 9 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 4, for pickup.  

The post Victoria County Rotarians gathering discarded Christmas trees Jan. 4 first appeared on River Valley Sun.

Grand Manan gets full time air ambulance after two-year gap in service

In December 2022, new regulations from the federal government grounded the air ambulance that was serving Grand Manan Island – which is only accessible by ferry. Ambulance New Brunswick lent the island an aircraft but it was not stationed on the island permanently, creating gaps in service and worries for island residents. In September, a King Air 200 was stationed full-time on the island.

Read more: https://www.commediaportal.ca/web/en/media/chco-tv-newsbreak26-vicki-hogarth-september-3-2024

Left in the Dark: Starshine Properties left vacant and dilapidated, creating concern for residents 

Nearly 20 properties were purchased by out-of-province landlords in St. Stephen. Annette Penkala has been described by some as an absentee landlord. The Courier and CHCO-TV documented some of the issues tenant’s were facing including water-shut offs, power disconnections and raids by the Department of Justice and Public Safety. 

Link: https://chco.tv/in-depth-citizens-seek-answers-in-a-survey-on-community-safety-in-st-stephen/

St. Stephen gets permanent homeless shelter one year after emergency declaration 

The community of St. Stephen has been grappling with an increasing number of people experiencing homelessness. In December 2023, it declared a state of emergency to try and get the provincial government to help it secure a shelter. One person died while outside in St. Stephen last winter. On Dec. 17, 2024, a new permanent shelter opened on 9 Main Street. 

Read more: https://chco.tv/st-stephen-homeless-shelter-opens-up-20-beds-available/

Blacks Harbour faces continued water supply issues 

The communities of Blacks and Beaver Harbour have been facing water quality issues for several years. Connors Brothers, a fish-packing and processing plant, owns the water supply. Councillors have decried the colour and sediment that have been in the water. Mayor John Craig said the solution is not simple and it is exploring all options to bring relief to those using the water supply in Blacks and Beaver Harbour. 

Read more: https://chco.tv/blacks-harbour-residents-warned-to-prepare-for-boil-water-advisory-amid-repairs/ 

Milltown dam decommissioned to allow return of natural flow of the St. Croix River

On June 4, the St. Croix River flowed freely once again as the site of the former Milltown Dam in St. Stephen hosted a historic celebration. The event marked the removal of the dam by NB Power, a pivotal step in restoring the river’s ecosystem and enabling migratory fish to return to their natural habitat for the first time in over a century. Attendees explored the revitalized riverbank, witnessing firsthand the transformation of the landscape. The ceremony, steeped in cultural significance, was led by the Peskotomuhkati People, who honoured the moment with drumming, traditional dances, and a water ceremony.

Read more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iVoOjbElmDs&t=2s 

Kim Eagles is seeing more adults than ever overwhelmed by the amount of clutter they inherit from their parents and grandparents. She says a more organized life starts with an open discussion about the emotions behind clutter.

Terry Fox Walk raises money and awareness

By Maya Jones and Brynn Crossman

Woodstock High School held a Terry Fox Walk on Tuesday, Oct. 8, to commemorate Terry Fox and his efforts to walk the span of our country.

The school hosted fundraising events for the Canadian Cancer Society and the Terry Fox Foundation. It is important to spread awareness about cancer. The Canadian Cancer Society predicts that 247,100 Canadian citizens will be diagnosed with cancer in 2024. With our fundraising efforts, we hope to raise awareness for individuals affected by cancer.

Fundraising activities included Toonies for Terry, which allowed staff and students to win one of two t-shirts wearing tall ‘Socks like Terry Fox,’ a lemonade sale, and a popular ‘soak the teacher’ event, where a few brave teachers volunteered to get wet to raise money. 

Terry Fox’s legacy motivated us students, and we raised a lot of money to ensure anyone affected by cancer knew we admired them. We believe treatments can improve, and a cure for cancer is possible.

The post WHS students honour Canadian hero first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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Every parent likely has that drive to splurge and buy their child or children that awe-inspiring gift during the holidays - perhaps something a bit too expensive, a bit too much.

Some might argue such Christmas presents threaten to spoil a kid, and maybe that’s true, but I think the intent for most parents is to capture a moment of wonder and magic, something completely unexpected that somehow tells the child how precious and special they are.

Today, a lot of those wow-factor gifts come in the form of technology. Maybe it’s a PlayStation 5 or a VR headset, the latest iPhone or a gaming computer. There are a lot of options for parents today (and a lot of added pressures, one might argue), but that doesn’t mean the inclination or instinct to amaze a kid with The Big Gift is a new phenomenon.

It takes me back to my childhood in Prince Edward Island, and a memory of when my late parents’ attempt not only to surprise my brothers and me but to amaze us went terribly wrong for them.

I can’t pinpoint the exact year this happened, but it would have had to have been the late 1970s, or maybe 1980 at the latest, as I was still a believer in the magic of Santa Claus.

I don’t know how they did it, but my parents managed to make every Christmas an absolute delight and celebration of consumerism, even though they were mounting such extravaganzas for four boys on one income.

Now, on this particular milestone Christmas, I’m guessing there weren’t any big (translation: expensive) gifts under our trademarked silver tree, and I believe that’s the case because it turns out the showstopper was located elsewhere in the house.

Mom and Dad said Santa delivered one more gift, but it wasn’t in the living room where the presents were typically to be found Christmas morning. No, they said, it was in the basement.

So en masse, our family of six headed downstairs (some of us with greater urgency than others) to see what else ol’ Saint Nick managed to pack in his sack of toys for Clan MacPherson.

It wasn’t anything that we boys had asked or wished for. It wasn’t anything we’d imagined or expected. It was that rarest of Christmas treasures: a surprise.

It was a full-sized pinball machine, lit up as bright as the tree upstairs. Something right out of an arcade.

We were blown away. It was the coolest thing we’d ever seen. A pinball machine? IN OUR HOUSE?!?!

It was madness. As if our house wasn’t loud enough already with four MacPherson boys (five, if you counted Dad, and you should, as he was the loudest) contained within the modest bungalow.

Now, Mom would have to contend with undoubtedly incessant bings and dings, not to mention four boys arguing over whose turn was next - five if you counted Dad, and again, you should.

It. Was. Amazing. But it was short-lived.

Within days, the space-themed machine started malfunctioning. Some of the bumpers wouldn’t light up or repel the metal pinball as required.

Knowing my father, I’m guessing he was incensed. It would’ve been a significant purchase, and I don’t want to think what an ordeal it was getting down our narrow stairwell to the basement. He’d have been determined to get his money’s worth, and to get satisfaction from the retailer from whom “Santa” had purchased it.

Tragedy awaits

So soon came the day when our parents had to explain to us that the machine was faulty, and that Santa was coming to take it back. But fear not, they said - he’d replace it with a pinball machine that would work and delight us for years to come.

That seemed reasonable to us, and given the recency of Christmas, my brothers and I undoubtedly had plenty of other doodads and distractions with which we could occupy ourselves. After all, Santa was replacing it, and it wouldn’t take long at all for him to work his magic.

But time, it definitely took. How many days and weeks elapsed, I can’t say, as the decades have deleted that detail from memory.

Eventually, Mom and Dad revealed the day had arrived: Santa had delivered the replacement, and it was awaiting us once again in the basement.

And so came the second Christmas surprise for my brothers and me, but this one wasn’t quite so pleasant.

Santa was all out of pinball machines, our parents explained, so he brought another fun apparatus one might find in a game hall.

It was a kind of pool table. Had it been a genuine pool table, that would’ve been just as big a hit as well. But it wasn’t a typical billiards setup.

No, it was a diminutive bumper pool table.

Now, I’m sure I hadn’t heard of bumper pool before, but even as a child, I knew one thing: it sucked. It offered the potential fun of pool but ruined with obstacles. Billiards Interruptus.

In retrospect, I have tremendous sympathy for my parents. Their grand plan to dazzle their boys was dashed by shoddy manufacturing and limited options.

My brothers and I would play bumper pool in the ensuing days, and we’d occasionally revisit it over the years. But it just didn’t compare to a real pinball machine.

Fast forward many years later. My brothers have all moved out and embarked upon our own lives and careers. The four of us return to the Prince Edward Island homestead to spend the holidays with our folks.

I don’t think parents ever really lose that push to treat their boys to something special, and on this particular Christmas, mine were inspired to deliver another big surprise and to right a wrong in the process.

Redemption

Once again, they revealed something awaiting us in the basement, and this time, Santa wouldn’t be stealing the credit. There it stood, a brand-new (and more modern and reliable) pinball machine, with electronic scoring. It was definitely a heftier and sturdier contraption, and it was tremendously fun.

We all commented how great it was and how cute it was for Mom and Dad to correct a perceived injustice that tainted a childhood memory.

But I also felt compelled to point out one small flaw in their plan.

“There’s just one problem,” I said. “WE DON’T LIVE HERE ANYMORE!”

As such, my brothers and I were frequently gathered around the pinball machine to get as much time as we could on it before we had to return to reality and leave this piece of the past behind - at least until the next visit home.

Mom and Dad eventually sold the house in P.E.I. and settled in Cape Breton in their golden years, and the machine followed them. So holiday visits still saw some pinball sessions.

My parents both died several years ago, but the pinball machine continues to entertain, but a new generation of MacPhersons. It sits in another basement, at my aunt and uncle’s home in Cape Breton, and their grandkids are the ones to light it up these days - and to argue over whose turn is next.

Don MacPherson can be contacted at [email protected].

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Once there were hundreds of them. Now New Brunswick’s covered bridges have dwindled to 58.

Most were built from the late 1800s to the 1950s and feature unique architectural designs. The Covered Bridge Conservation Association of New Brunswick is advocating for the preservation of these bridges. It says these bridges are far more than instruments of transportation.

“They’re also tourism draws and they have historical significance,” said Patrick Toth, association vice president.

“Anytime a bridge is in danger, or it’s closed because it fails inspection, we lobby the province, through the Department of Transportation and Infrastructure, to get it fixed rather than replacing it with something modern. We have had several successes and a couple of failures,” Toth said.

The former Progressive Conservative government launched a review of New Brunswick’s network of covered bridges to ensure these assets are effectively managed to provide maximum value to the province according to a news release issued at the time. It was done in January 2019.

The former government described these bridges as important transportation links and a reminder of New Brunswick’s rich cultural history. It said it recognized the importance of taking a practical and responsible approach to maintenance and preservation.

These bridges can last well over a century and easily outlast more modern bridges if properly maintained, according to Toth and association president, Ray Boucher.

Charlotte County’s covered bridges are in various conditions. The covered bridge at Flume Ridge recently underwent a restoration.

Meanwhile, the Canal Bridge, just outside St. George, is in bad shape as is the Dumbarton Bridge near Rolling Dam, the association said.

Periodic maintenance and repairs are necessary to protect wooden trusses and decking, Boucher and Toth said.

Major repairs were done on the Maxwell Crossing bridge at Old Ridge just outside St. Stephen in 2013 after it was damaged by a vehicle.

“The province was considering replacing it with a modern steel bridge and we lobbied against that and got our MLA involved and they restored it,” Toth said.

A new double-lane covered bridge opened in St. Martins in 2022. With the completion of the Fundy Parkway, it was determined the former covered bridge was inadequate for the traffic it was going to receive.

“DTI had proposed doing a modern steel and concrete bridge and covering it with a wooden roof. Our association pointed out that was fake. So, we lobbied for an authentic covered bridge and that’s what they built. It’s huge and it’s beautiful,” Toth said.

Boucher said he’s regularly contacted by people around the world asking about tour opportunities to see every covered bridge in the province.

“When they’re travelling to see them, they’re spending money for gas, food, and accommodations,” Boucher said.

The association is asking everyone who cares about the remaining covered bridges to lobby the provincial government.

“It needs to be loud enough for DTI to hear because it seems like an uphill battle. It depends on who’s in government at the time. We had a former DTI Minister tell us New Brunswick is no longer in the timber bridge business. During his term two covered bridges in the province were torn down,” Toth recalls.

This will happen to other covered bridges unless people speak up, he said. The association is asking for more people to get involved and demand the provincial government protect these historic structures. That’s happening in Tantramar where 1,000 people have signed a petition to keep the covered bridge there.

On Dec. 15, The Courier asked DTI if any bridges in Charlotte County are slated for repair or restoration work and, if so, when. It was also asked to confirm what number of covered bridges were repaired by DTI in New Brunswick from 2018 to October 2024. That information wasn’t made available by the Dec. 20 publication time.

To learn more or get involved, you may contact the Covered Bridges Conservation Association of New Brunswick through its Facebook page.

Laverne Stewart has spent her entire career as a writer, journalist, and communications professional.She’s won multiple literary and journalism awards for her work. After a year in radio, she made the move to TV news, spending 11 years with CTV in Halifax, Saint John, and Fredericton. Stewart has also worked in government communications, most recently in the Office of the Premier. Stewart is a published author and now works on feature stories from her community and beyond. Her life is full and happy thanks to the people who are in it. She is married to her husband Robert. She is mother to Mary Louise and Nicolas. Also included in her family is Sally, a Labrador retriever, and three cats; Dusty, Joe, and Clancy. She can be reached at [email protected].

In Kings County, a social media group harnesses the power of pocket change to help community.

Wishing you and yours a safe and joyful holiday

The River Valley Sun team would like to extend our warmest wishes to advertisers, readers, and supporters. May the holiday bring joy and peace, and may the new year bring health and happiness.

The post Merry Christmas first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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A Noonan man is set to be back before a provincial court judge early in the new year to answer to an allegation of breaking into an industrial recycling facility in Fredericton this fall.

Rodney Shane Jewett, 38, of Watters Road, made his first appearance in Fredericton provincial court Friday to face an indictable burglary charge.

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The Fundy Regional Service Commission is encouraging its residents to recycle wrapping paper for the first time, while a non-profit in Cap-Acadie is asking for used Christmas trees to restore dunes.

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The Fredericton Police Force issued an alert through social media seeking tips from the public on the whereabouts of a city resident wanted on outstanding warrants.

Dirk Briggs, 29, of Fredericton, is wanted on warrants of arrest, the force said Tuesday in its online plea for information.

Briggs is described as being about 6’1” tall, weighing about 180 pounds, with brown eyes and hair.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Fredericton Police Force by calling 506-460-2300 or emailing Sgt. Chris Furlotte at [email protected].

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

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

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Immigrants are increasingly choosing to stay in Quebec, according to a new report from Statistics Canada, but the same isn't true in the Atlantic region, which continues to lose newcomers to the rest of the country.

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A Fredericton-area man accused of trafficking in narcotics will return to court in the new year to elect mode of trial and enter pleas.

Joel Douglas Perley, 48, of no fixed address, made an initial appearance in Fredericton provincial court Friday to answer to serious drug allegations.

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More details emerge on arrest of Takoda Christian and female accomplice

The Woodstock Police Force issued a news release, providing further details on the arrest of 19-year-old Takoda Christian and an accomplice.

A warrant was issued for the arrest of the Woodstock man after a violent assault near the Woodstock Legion on Nov. 14.

With the help of the Canadian Border Services Agency, Woodstock Police arrested Christian on Dec. 20, along with a female accomplice, 18-year-old Hannah McGuire, also of Woodstock. The two were apprehended while attempting to cross back into Canada at the Houlton, Maine, border crossing.

Woodstock Police formally charged Christian with aggravated assault. Police charged McGuire with aggravated assault, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle causing bodily harm, and failing to remain at the scene of an accident.

Both were held in custody until their bail hearing in Woodstock Provincial Court on Monday, Dec. 23.

Christian was released with conditions, including house arrest and a no-contact order. He returns to court on Jan. 14 at 9:30 for plea. McGuire was also released with the same conditions and returns to court on Jan. 28 at 9:30 for plea.

The post Woodstock Police make arrests in aggrivated assault case first appeared on River Valley Sun.

Last-minute shoppers will have to fight more than just the crowds if they plan on heading out Christmas Eve throughout New Brunswick.

Levon Helm was that iconic vocalist, able to connect the listener with those sepia-toned stories by Robbie Robertson, in the classic lineup of The Band. As the only American, he oozed credibility and knowledge of the southern experience that Robertson fixated upon as the foundation of the lyrical map of the group. The other members of the band had smoother, more melodic, more professional singing voices but Helm was often chosen to be the lead vocalist because of the authenticity of his tone. If that time of his life was his sole contribution to rock n’ roll it is enough for any Hall of Fame career. His output after the demise of The Band is meager but powerful, and 2007’s “Dirt Farmer” captures his strengths amid a family affair outing produced by daughter Amy Helm and the multi-talented Larry Campbell.

After a serious battle with throat cancer in the late 90’s, Helm believed he would never have his normal singing voice again. His daughter, Amy, convinced him over time to approach playing and recording with an acceptance of the changes time and illness had brought. “Dirt Farmer” was recorded at home surrounded by family and friends in a relaxed no-pressure environment.

Many of the tracks are traditional, passed down through the Helm family, and sung by grandparents, uncles, and aunts. The album opens with “False Hearted Lover Blues” with Levon drumming and wailing in an upbeat, acoustic stomper. “Take warning you young ladies”, pump organ and mandolin provide melodic color but the focus is all on the worn, engaging voice of Helm. “Poor Old Dirt Farmer” is in waltz time with accordion and fiddle leading us around the sawdust dancefloor. Backing vocals do call and response with Levon’s story about the farmer’s wife and children being “packed up and gone”. The farmer fell off his tractor and now “his head is shaped like a tread, but he ain’t quite dead”. It’s a light-hearted lament that fades out all too quickly. The third track is a dynamic reading of Steve Earle’s “The Mountain”. It is very hard indeed to better the original, but Helm’s version has such passion and a quivering perfection of production. Buddy & Julie Miller provide beautiful backing vocals, “I’ll die on this mountain, this mountain’s my home” is as real as music gets. “Little Birds” has a sustained fiddle drone, a touch of mandolin, and little else backing Helm’s fragile voice on the traditional ballad. “The Girl I Left Behind” is a rocking hoe-down that would have fit comfortably on early Band albums. A fiddle melody that hooks the ears and a rock drum paired with the acoustic instruments featuring a beautiful accordion from Brian Mitchell. It feels contemporary even though it is a traditional track. Side one concludes at “Calvary” with resonator guitar and drums powering a gospel lament. “There’s no running from your trouble….you will meet your destiny, take me down to Calvary.” Tasteful guitar work from Larry Campbell frames a heartfelt performance from Helm. The oft-covered “Anna Lee” opens side two with just vocals and fiddle. A simple circular motif of melody allows the attention to be on the vocal trio. No tricks, no distractions, just a straight reading of an ancient tale. “Got Me a Woman” is a light-hearted goof written by country artist Paul Kennerley, “we live with a monkey and a Chinese acrobat, she calls me Tex, makes me wear a cowboy hat, …. she shaves my beard and keeps my tractor clean, she burns my bread, makes me eat turnip greens.” The fun and playfulness jump out of the speakers. He is having a ball relating this nonsense song. “A Train Robbery”, again by Kennerley is a more somber tale of masked men threatening to “burn your train to cinders”. The production features a full palette of instruments and a bigger sound than most of the tracks. It may be a bit too cluttered. “Single Girl, Married Girl” is a piano-driven Carter Family track that has not aged well in this world, “a married girl just wears any old kind”. The single girl, of course, is always dressed so fine. “The Blind Child” is a lilting traditional sad tale with tender backing from fiddle and accordion weaving another waltz among the tears. The album’s penultimate track, the J.B. Lenoir blues “Feelin’ Good” ups the energy. Ringing acoustic guitar, forceful drums, and Amy Helm’s co-lead vocals all contribute to a strong performance. “All the money in the world spent on feelin’ good”. Buddy & Julie Miller contribute the heartfelt “Wide River to Cross” to close the album as Levon looks at his past, present, and future. Tender passion in the vocals allows for the less-than-it-was voice to convey more than you-expect power.

The positive reception to this record plus the family unity to rebuild Levon’s barn after a fire allowed the Rambles to continue in upstate New York, allowed Levon to tour in a limited manner, and allowed a little bit more recording before his passing. After the cancer, this part of his career seemed like a wonderful hidden track at the end of a classic album.

Charlotte County resident Stephen MacKnight works for Anglophone South & Working NB after a decade spent as a music teacher in the school system and twenty-five years in the music retail industry cycling through Sam the Record Man, Records on Wheels and CDPlus. There have been nominations from ECMA’s & Music NB as a band-member and songwriter. Passionate and opinionated about music Stephen loves when anyone wants to have a debate. 

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A Fredericton man accused of exposing himself in public is facing an impending arrest after he didn’t appear in court Monday as directed by police.

Andrew Derek Washburn, 32, of Reynolds Street, was scheduled to make his first appearance in Fredericton provincial court Monday morning to face an Oct. 15 charge of committing an indecent act by exposing his genitals with the intent of offending someone.

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A $54.1-million surcharge being paid by N.B. Power customers this year to reimburse the utility for past financial misfortunes has made no progress retiring a $236.1-million debt the payments were originally meant to deal with.

Rachel Dalton, owner of Brigadoon Fiber Farm in Hoyt, wanted to make as many handmade Christmas gifts this year as she could. She used her weaving skills to turn alpaca and sheep fibre into wearable goods for friends and family.

Fredericton city staff presented councillors with concept images depicting a pedestrian crossing that has been long on the list of demands for residents living in the Skyline Acres neighbourhood.

Event included a magical trip to the North Pole on the Shogomoc train

The District of Carleton North hosted their first Polar Express Experience over two weekends in early December at the Shogomoc Railway site in Florenceville-Bristol.

The event was the brainchild of the district tourism department, which has been “striving to come up with fun and engaging programs and events” to promote tourism and community engagement, according to Tourism, Heritage, and Culture Manager Sharon Johnston.

“We wanted to bring more Christmas joy and excitement to the District because there can never be too much,” said Johnston.

The event included an imaginary journey to the North Pole aboard the Shogomoc train. During their travels, participants were treated to hot chocolate, cookies, and a reading of “The Polar Express.” 

Once arriving at their destination, everyone received a special bell and was invited to the elf’s workshop to decorate ornaments. The event concluded with a walk to Santa’s Village while singing carols and ringing their bells. Once at Santa’s Village, everyone had the opportunity to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. 

Johnston was pleased with the event’s success, noting that tickets for both weekends sold out quickly.

“I was blown away by the [community] excitement and how quickly the phone calls started coming in after we announced it on our…Facebook page,” said Johnston.  “It was filled with joy and excitement, with smiling faces and happy families on board the magical journey. The energy was unmistakable.”

Johnston said she and the department were grateful for the support of volunteers, primarily made up of students from Grades 8 through 12, with some local adults.

“They all stepped up and really brought the “Polar Express” to life. Their effort and dedication were key to making this event come alive and such a success,” said Johnston.

The post Inagural Polar Express experience a success first appeared on River Valley Sun.

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Environment and Climate Change Canada’s weather service updated its special weather statement for southern New Brunswick, with more detail on how much snow to expect.

The federal service issued the special weather statement Sunday, advising of the potential for significant snowfall Tuesday in parts of New Brunswick, including the Fredericton region.

In an update Monday, it forecast 10 to 15 centimetres of snow in the southern part of the province, stretching from the western border to the eastern.

“A developing system is expected to give snowfall on Tuesday, which may impact holiday travel on Tuesday,” the statement said.

“There is unusual uncertainty in the amount of snowfall accumulation expected with this system.”

It said the snow is expected to start Monday night and last until Tuesday night.

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

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