War veteran beaten blind

By KATHY BOCKUS
kathy@stcroixcourier.ca

ST. STEPHEN – “If you think I’m scared, you’re messing with the wrong guy.”
That’s what one witness heard 84-year-old Second World War veteran Herbert Matthews say to an intoxicated 21-year-old Christopher True before True viciously beat him the night of Aug. 23, leaving him dazed, broken and bleeding on the wharf at L’Etete while he stole his truck and drove off with another man.
According to that same statement, Matthews also told True, “Don’t make the mistake I’m scared,” before getting out of his truck to confront the much younger, and much larger man.
True has been remanded back to jail until Nov. 10 when he will be returned to court for sentencing on four charges connected to the brutal beating that has left Matthews severely battered and, according to his optometrist, legally blind.
True is charged with assault causing bodily harm, impaired driving and stealing a motor vehicle valued at over $5,000. He is facing an assault charge after punching Sheldon Conley, who tried to come to Matthews’ aid. True is also charged with break, enter and theft into a cottage at Richardsonville, Deer Island. It was after his return from Deer Island where ferry workers had to lock him in the ferry’s passenger lounge for the journey because of his assaultive and confrontational behaviour that True assaulted Matthews.
Also charged with break, enter and theft into the same cottage is Joshua Anthony Fraser, 18, of St. Stephen. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 10 and has been released on a form of house arrest until that date.
Fraser was initially thought to have participated in the assault on Matthews, but all the witnesses, as well as the victim, have stated he did not attack Matthews.
However, Crown prosecutor Randy DiPaolo has not withdrawn the assault causing bodily harm charge, or the assault charge laid in connection with the attack on Sheldon Conley, saying that the evidence in this case has been evolving and he wants to wait until the disposition of the matter as it relates to True before withdrawing those two charges against Fraser.
“It is clear in all witness accounts that Fraser did not commit any assault on Matthews,” said DiPaolo.
Matthews is recovering at his home under the care of his daughter, Elaine Cook. DiPaolo told Provincial Court Judge David C. Walker that Matthews is facing eye surgery as doctors attempt to regain some of his sight for him.
DiPaolo told the court that Dr. Michael Murphy, a local optometrist who has treated Matthews, said Matthews had a vision of 20/30 in his left eye, noted in an examination which took place in May of this year, but since the beating the vision in that eye has deteriorated to 20/400, or legal blindness.
Matthews had already lost what the doctor described as the functional sight in his right eye.
The optometrist said an intraocular lens implanted in Matthews’ left eye has “most certainly become dislodged as a result of injuries sustained to his face”.
The doctor stated the results of the attack on Matthews are “life changing.”
The doctor has arranged for an eye surgeon to evaluate Matthews and said he may be facing surgery. How much sight Matthews could regain in his left eye has yet to be determined, said the doctor.
DiPaolo told the judge he intended to provide him with an up-to-date report from medical personnel on the extent of Matthews’ injuries. Meanwhile, he read aloud a summary prepared by Matthews’ daughter, who has been her father’s primary caregiver since the beating and has attended all her father’s medical sessions.
Cook said her father experiences dizziness when he moves, is confused and his short-term memory seems to be lost.
He suffers from pains in his head over his eyes and on the top of his head, she said, and has a broken nose, a fractured left cheekbone, six stitches on the left side of his nose, stitches in front of his left ear, and his left jaw is so painful that he has trouble eating.
His left eye is swollen shut, the lens within it dislodged and he cannot see. He has many abrasions on his scalp and face, several of which are deep. Matthews’ right elbow has a large swelling on the outside and deep bruising on the inside. His right hip is so painful that he can’t put his weight on it to sit.
Cook said the left side of her father’s body is severely bruised from chin to waist, and he suffers from severe abdominal pain. She said he has nightmares, calls out through the night, moans, and is fearful, afraid of repercussions.
DiPaolo said he watched an interview of True giving his statement to police and there’s no doubt in his mind True had a hard time recollecting the events of that night.
True’s lawyer, Peter Teed, told the court that True, still to this day, does not believe he kicked Matthews and still insists he only hit Matthews once.
Teed called the case a “sad set of circumstances” noting it involved a lot of “what ifs?”
“What if somebody had stayed in the truck, what if somebody had not been so drunk?” offered Teed.
Teed said the incident was “a horrendous occasion” that would affect two people, one at the beginning of his life, the other at the other end.
Witness statements read to the court by DiPaolo relate how motorists sitting in their vehicles at the L’Etete wharf, waiting for the Deer Island ferry, were approached by Fraser and True asking for money, use of a cell phone or cigarettes.
They tell of seeing Matthews, whom most of them know, arrive at the wharf. His grandson told police Matthews goes to the wharf, from where he used to fish, everyday. Days after the attack, Matthews was finally able to tell police he was there that night waiting for some friends. He had candy for their wives who had invited him to dinner. He can’t recall how he got out of his truck or the beating afterwards.
Witnesses told of seeing True approach Matthews in his truck, of hearing words exchanged and then seeing Matthews get out of his truck.
One witness said he heard True tell Matthews, “I’m 50 years younger than you, that’s what’s wrong with me,” and then, “I’ll give you two free swings.”
After that, the man said he heard a thump and one man was on the ground.
In his statement to police, True described Matthews as being five feet, nine inches tall, and weighing about 170 pounds. He also told them he thought Matthews was 50 years old.
A female witness who tended to Matthews after he was injured, said the senior had blood on his face and one arm when she reached him. She said she leaned down and stroked his head, telling him he would be okay. The witness said Matthews was distraught and at one point said, “Lord, I need someone to help me.”
At one point, when the woman looked at Matthews she thought he was missing an eye.
The woman’s daughter, who was in her parents’ vehicle, began screaming, “He’s back, he’ll hurt you, he’s coming down,” when True reappeared on the scene.
The woman said she started praying for protection and was grateful when an RCMP officer arrived.
DiPaolo said after the assault on Matthews, True got into the driver’s seat of the truck, Fraser got in the passenger side and they left the wharf area. But a short distance up the road, True struck a sign and the truck left the road. One of his sandals was found on the truck on the driver’s side and one of Fraser’s sneakers was found later in the truck.
When police arrived at the accident scene all the truck lights were on but no one was in the vehicle. The vehicle is a write off.
Another 911 call, the third in just a few minutes, told police one of the people involved in the assault was back at the ferry landing. The RCMP officer raced to the wharf and saw True. She described him as intoxicated. After he was taken into custody, True produced breathalyzer readings of .16 and .17, twice the legal blood alcohol limit of .08.
True told the officer who arrested him at the wharf that he hadn’t done anything.
In connection with the break and enter charges against True and Fraser, DiPaolo said police were investigating a break and enter into a cottage on Deer Island where a number of bottles of liquor were stolen and some food was missing. He said Fraser’s fingerprint got left behind.
Judge Walker said that since the Crown would, in all probability, be withdrawing the two assault charges against Fraser, he would consent to a request from John King, Fraser’s lawyer, to relax the strict house arrest conditions under which Fraser had been previously released.
King told the court St. Stephen High School would not let Fraser attend classes.
Fraser must remain in his mother’s home at all times except for between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays.
Fraser is not to be in the presence of anyone with a known criminal record and is to allow access to his home by the RCMP at all times. He must remain in New Brunswick and provide the RCMP with any change of address.

Silverkings can season

BLACKS HARBOUR – Mike MacQuarrie was named General Manager/Owner of the Blacks Harbour Silverkings for the second time around recently but he will be doing little managing this year as the Silverkings have asked for a year’s leave of absence from the Southern Hockey League.
MacQuarrie, who was the original owner of the team, took the reigns for the 2008 – 2009 season after what was one of the Silverkings’ best years, finishing the 2007 – 2008 season in second place with a record of 20-3-1. They were also second in both goals scored with 193 and fewest goals allowed with 94, and first in penalty minutes with 1,017. But when MacQuarrie went to the Southern Hockey League’s Annual General Meeting he found the entire process to be rushed and was left with many disconcerting issues.
“We had issues with the way certain teams have been run, just as other teams around the league have had issues with us,” said MacQuarrie.
“We also had issues in regards to the discipline committee.”
MacQuarrie, who stated he felt uncomfortable at the meeting, reiterated that all conversations seemed rushed and there was little room for discussion.
“We actually abstained from voting when it became time because we weren’t prepared,” said MacQuarrie.
Sheldon Currie, president of the Southern Hockey League, was surprised to see the Silverkings put in a request for leave after receiving and accepting a request from the River Valley Rock a few weeks ago.
“The Blacks Harbour Silverkings, under a new management team, attended our most recent meetings and regrettably advised the SHL on Sept. 24, 2008, I quote, ‘We are not willing to play for second place, and that’s what it would be if the league allows the rules and draft to stand.’
“In defense of this position, the new management team came on board basically after the original AGM was held and the constitution was as the ratification stage,” said Currie.
With the Silverkings and the Rock taking the year off, and rumours of the recently-moved Saint John Thrashers considering the same, it would come as a major blow to a league that just partnered with Bud Light as a major sponsor if a third team decided to follow suit. Only four teams would be left in the league and surely the impact would be felt by not only the sponsors, but the fans.
“The former Grand Lake Thrashers committed to participating this season and a communication from one of the owners on Sept. 24 indicated they may make the same request. I have since spoken to the majority owner of the team and he intends to work on existing owners, explore new partnerships, and operate the team,” said Currie.
“Fans will be greatly hurt,” said MacQuarrie, speaking about the Silverkings missing the season.
“I believe we have the best fans in the whole league. We have a loyal following in Blacks Harbour and even at away games we would have fans show up. I know the fans will understand our decision though.”
The Southern Hockey League will hold its annual draft on Oct. 10 in Nackawic and all players from teams taking a leave of absence will be available in the draft for the league’s remaining teams. Upon resuming play next season, those players selected in the draft this year would be reverted back to their former teams.

Thompson says it's people first

CANDIDATE PROFILE

ST STEPHEN – On Oct. 14, Greg Thompson will see his name on the ballot for the seventh time in twenty years. And although technology has changed a lot over the years, Thompson is still running a very human campaign.
“It’s still about the people” he said.
Thompson credits his election team, led this time by Rick Hunter, a former vice-principal from Upper Kingsclear, for keeping this campaign on track. Each day Hunter makes the trip from his home to campaign headquarters in St. Stephen to ensure all will run smoothly on election day.
During his 20-year political life, Thompson has seen many changes, including the area that he served. First elected to the riding of Carleton-Charlotte in 1988, he inherited the “Fish and Chip” riding from the late Fred McCain. McCain served the riding for just over 16 years, and a few months ago Thompson surpassed that.
In 1996 the riding became New Brunswick Southwest, and while the riding’s geography changed, Thompson’s commitment to the area did not.
Having served for that length of time has allowed Thompson to start, and see through to completion, many long-range plans. Having Co-Chaired the Canada U.S. Inter-Parliamentary Group, he gained contacts and forged relationships with his American counterparts. From this he was able to better negotiate with the six levels of government (municipal, provincial/state and federal in two countries) to see agreement on the twinning of Route 1 to the border, and the construction of the new international bridge across the St. Croix River. The St. Stephen-Calais border is among the busiest between the two countries and this new crossing will greatly speed not only the average car travel, but increase trade opportunities as well, Thompson said.
The Biological Station in St. Andrews is another success story. The new facility will cost over $50 million to build, and will allow St. Andrews to move forward in marine research. The first contracts for this facility are already awarded, and the project is moving ahead.
On the economy, Thompson looks to build on what is there already, and to make it even stronger. While the American economy has suffered major blows, Canada has been able to manage its economy, he said. By lowering personal and corporate taxes, companies have been encouraged to modernize.
“We always have to work a little harder in New Brunswick,” acknowledges Thompson.
But it is a task he feels confident in. Thompson is a strong supporter of the province’s economic sufficiency plan, and is working closely with politicians of all parties to make that happen.
“NBers work shoulder to shoulder to get the job done.”
And while Thompson has worked hard and co-operated with his American contacts, he has also taken a tough stance on American liquefied natural gas developments in the region. Thompson said neither he, nor his government, is backing down on their commitment to oppose LNG developments in Passamaquoddy Bay. They have consistently said no to this project, including Prime Minister Stephen Harper telling President George W. Bush in August of 2007, that Canada would use every means possible to block this project.
On the environment, the Conservative government has had an affordable, achievable plan to reduce green house gases, Thompson said.
“Dion’s carbon tax is the biggest issue,” he said. “It’s going to hit New Brunswickers hard.”
In the last parliament, Thompson moved from the backbenches to become the Minister of Veterans Affairs. Of this experience, Thompson said it is “very humbling to be in the presence of these men.”
He is also seeing a change in the average veteran. Canada now has one First World War veteran left, and with Second World War veterans now into their 80s, the country is seeing a rapid decline in the numbers of older veterans. The new veteran is from the Gulf War and the peacekeeping mission in Afghanistan and elsewhere. The veterans of today have different needs and opportunities than those who have preceded them. Thompson sees the implementation of the New Veteran’s Charter as one of the successes of his office. This charter addresses the needs of the young veteran and gives a comprehensive plan on how services are addressed.
The last election was aimed at getting the job done, he said, and with successes such as these, Thompson is confident that he and the Conservatives have carried through.

Civic Centre hits $2 million mark

By Courier Staff

ST. STEPHEN – The Charlotte County Civic Centre fundraising efforts reached another milestone Monday with the announcement that the committee has now raised $2 million toward its $3.5-million share of the project.
“It’s a significant milestone and we’re proud of the work done so far by hundreds of volunteers,” said Peter Heelis, co-chair of the Charlotte County Civic Centre Fundraising Campaign.
“But we’re not done yet. Our goal is $3.5 million and we’re going to do it.”
The committee is charged with raising the money before the federal and provincial governments can commit their expected $5 million each toward the $15-million project. Plans for the civic centre include an ice surface, indoor pool, walking track, retail space and conference rooms.
Richard Fulton, chairman of the project’s board of directors, said he remembers how it all started with a few excited volunteers whose dream of a new Civic Centre has now become the vision of hundreds of active supporters. People all across our region from all walks of life, young and old, see this centre as more than just a building, more than just another sports complex, he said.
Community activist Maria Kulcher said the building of the new Civic Centre is a clear sign that St. Stephen is a vibrant community open for business and eager to move forward.
The new Civic Centre, she said, is encouraging our youth to return, to stay, and to invest in the future of their hometowns. They see the new Civic Centre stimulating growth by attracting new people and businesses to the region.
“The supporters see the new Civic Centre as evidence of our hopes for and our faith in the future of our community,” she said.
Fundraising Co-Chair Norah Heelis said the fundraising is a wide-spread effort and that volunteers are organized and ready to raise the remaining $1.5 million.
“Over 100 volunteers have been working steadily for more than a year to reach the $2 million milestone. Now we’re there and we celebrate that fact,” she said. “But we also recognize that we still have to raise another $1.5 million. We are confident that we can do it. We are well organized and we have a comprehensive plan to complete the task.”
Volunteers have approached major donors and foundations all across Canada to raise the $2 million. The largest single donation of $174,000 came from Robert Quartermain, who was born and raised in St. Stephen but who is now a successful businessman in British Columbia. Organizers said they are still waiting for a final decision from several of those contacted and the indications are hopeful.
The fundraising campaign is now entering its second phase – an appeal to Charlotte and Washington County. Local businesses and individual citizens are being approached for financial support.
Volunteers will be asking those who will benefit most from the new centre to commit to the project by becoming donors.
Volunteer Steve Backman said it’s painless to contribute.
“Not everybody can afford to write a big cheque, but everybody can help,” he said.
Donations can be spread over five years and made weekly, monthly or even annually. $50 a month becomes a $3,000 donation over five years while $5 a week becomes a $1,300 donation.
St. Stephen Town Councillor and volunteer Ralph Williams said the St. Stephen area is a greater community of more than 10,000 people who can benefit from the civic centre.
This second phase of the campaign, appealing to individuals, is labour intensive and time consuming. Volunteer canvassers are now being trained to help pitch the project to potential donors. The fundraising committee has recruited volunteers from various businesses and organizations but they’re looking for more help.
“If you have the time and the inclination to help with Phase Two, call the Charlotte County Civic Centre office at 466-5095 and speak with our co-ordinator, Melissa Evans,” said Charlotte County Civic Centre Honourary Committee Co-Chair David Ganong.

Kyle... hmmm... now that's a nice name

Oh crap.

"THEY" say there's no such thing as a free lunch...

We disagree...



On Friday September 26 from 12:30pm until 4:00pm or so, we the vendors

and friends of St. Stephen Community Market are having a thank you for the summer party.

Since we are having a saying thanks celebration, we must give a present.


Therefore SSCM is giving away lunches to all our loyal vendors a free
lunch. Not only that, we want to give a free lunch to the first 30
people who come to say thanks with us.

The SSCM has contracted with Bob Oatway to supply lunch. He will cook
you a great sausage or hot dog and give you a pop or water free as our
way of saying thanks. Our special ladies who have baked such wonderful

sweets and breads, pies and cookies, and have kept me chubby all summer,

promised to cook up some wonderful desserts for us. This will be a day
of sharing.

So please come out to join us on Friday Sept 26 at 12:30, our vendors
are good folks, they'll be glad to see you.

Rex Nicholson, Market Manager.

Power of the press

WE SAID... on in an editorial on Sept. 16

Winter of our discontent

That chill that’s arriving each evening is more than a folksy or charming reminder that fall colours, pumpkins and, soon enough, that first snow, are on their way.
The killing frost is a real scare for many Charlotte County residents who are torn up wondering how they’ll find the money, or what they’ll have to do without, in order to keep their homes or apartments warm this winter.
Whatever their poison – oil, electric, natural gas or wood – energy is getting more expensive all the time. Too expensive for too many people.
And in the face of what promises to be the most costly winter on record here, what has Shawn Graham’s Liberal government done? Cut a pittance of a subsidy – the provincial Home Energy Assistance Program worth a whopping $100 per household per year.
About 55,000 households benefited from this program as seniors on fixed incomes, the working poor and those on social assistance took advantage. A hundred bucks isn’t much but when you’re on a fixed income and you’re barely able to pay the bills (or at least pay enough to avoid a shut-off) it can be a flicker of light in a dark winter night.
The ranks of those who are hurting are expected to grow this winter. Home heating oil bills, for example, are up 37 per cent. One Charlotte County resident said her bill, on an equalized payment schedule, is going up $117 per month. She expects to pay about $4,500 for oil this fall and winter. She’ll be able to swing it but she wonders how others will manage. That $100 subsidy would have at least covered one month’s worth of the increase.
At the Volunteer Centre of Charlotte County, Donna Linton is bracing for an increase in clientele this winter as the reality of heating bills hits with full force. People, from the working poor to the unemployed, are going to need help. The Graham government is offering little.
And then there’s gas prices. Gas price regulation was supposed to protect consumers from the kind of 13-cent-per-litre bomb that dropped last week in the wake of Hurricane Ike – a storm that clobbered Texas but left the oil refineries there, thankfully, in good shape.
Across the St. Croix River in Maine, the price of gas rose only CDN three cents a litre. Is it any wonder New Brunswickers are turning to Fredericton and asking, “What’s going on here?”
Politicians will tell us the gas price spiked because of emergency conditions or they’ll cite the New York Harbour pricing formula as justification for our outrageous rates. Don’t be fooled. Gas went up 13 cents per litre because the Graham government is failing to protect consumers. If the current gas price regulation system, introduced by Graham’s predecessor, Bernard Lord, isn’t working, no one is in a better position to fix it than Graham.
In the bigger picture, all that money New Brunswickers are spending on oil and gas is money they aren’t spending at local stores, restaurants and other businesses. Everybody hurts.
Oh the province is happy to hand over cash or issue loans to homeowners who take steps to make their homes more efficient. The New Brunswick Energy Efficiency program offers $2,000 grants or $10,000 loans to people who can upgrade their homes. It’s little use to those living paycheck to paycheck but it’s a great program for people who can afford to renovate. It’s a huge financial help to those who need help least.
Many of us have the luxury of grumbling about gas prices as we idle in line at a drive-through or as we turn up the thermostat a notch. But some New Brunswickers will think hard this winter about whether to spend money on heating or eating.
For those most in need, the province is offering even less comfort than it did last year. And that’s chilling.



THEY REPLIED... in a letter received Sept. 23

Editor

Saint Croix Courier


Dear Editor:

I would like to respond to an article which appeared in your newspaper on Sept. 16thregarding the home heating assistance program.

The government realizes that the winter heating season is fast approaching, and shares concerns regarding the rising cost of home heating fuel and the impact on New Brunswickers.

The home energy assistance program had originally been put in place as a one-year program and was extended last year by government to include last year’s winter season, which ended up having $5.5 million issued to 55,000 New Brunswickers through rebates of $100.

The program has expired but we realize that energy costs are higher than ever and that many will find heating their homes especially challenging this winter.

As such, a review of all assistance programs that are offered through Finance, the Department of Social Development, as well as the programs available through Efficiency NB are being examined to see how to proceed for this winter.

The government wants to ensure that the programs that are being offered are effective and that assistance is being provided to those most in need. The government will be making an announcement in this regard in the coming weeks.

With respect to pensioners, this government is committed to assisting low-income seniors. Effective April 1, 2007, the Low-Income Seniors Benefit was doubled from $100 to $200. For further information on the Low-Income Seniors Benefit, please see the following website: http://www.gnb.ca/0024/tax/seniors.asp

Thank you for allowing me the space to respond to this important issue.

Sincerely,


Victor Boudreau

Minister of Finance

This just in...

Nude bartending can get you arrested... and we don't even want to know what nude bacon frying can get you.

IMPORTANT UPDATE

The latest edition of the Courier Weekend is coming along great and the newsroom is humming along with no distractions whatsoever. SERIOUSLY.

Phrase of the day so far

CHEESE FUDGE!

Q: Can you use "cheese fudge" in a sentence please?

Sports reporter Jeremy Townes: "I drank so much last night, I feel like cheese fudge this morning."

Sorry we're not in the office today...

But we're REALLY, REALLY, REALLY BUSY

SERIOUSLY

OK THIS TIME WE MEAN IT

Drop the sausage...

... and nobody gets hurt

Bye Buddy

ST. ANDREWS – One of the Huntsman Marine Science Centre’s oldest residents and favourite attractions, Buddy the harbour seal, died Tuesday after a short illness.
Buddy was born at the Shippagan aquarium but resided in the Huntsman Aquarium where he was a focal point of the conservation education programs.
A generation of Maritime school children regarded Buddy as a personal friend. He lived to be 20 years old, a good age for a male seal. Buddy and Chelsea, his mate at the aquarium, had their 13th pup, Quin, earlier this year.

Proud veteran helps Thompson

Signs of the times – Veteran helps with Greg Thompson signs.
A picture of 87-year-old L.J. (Ben) Leland helping put up a “re-elect Greg Thompson” sign (at right of the sign). Ben Leland is a veteran of WWII. He was a Navigator in the 433 Porcupine Squadron of the 6th Bomber Command for the RCAF. Ben and his wife Margaret live in Saint George and are the parents of 14 children and 49 grandchildren. Ben isn’t a particularly political person but is so proud to have the Veteran’s Affairs Minister as his MP. Ben is now a man of very few words but he thinks Greg “is a really good guy”. Also pictured in the photo are Walter Balasiuk and Peter Leland.
Picture submitted by Patrick Leland

Watcha gonna do...

when WASHERMANIA runs wild on you!

Then there's the more popular HULKAMANIA

And then there's WHEN GOOD HULKAMANIA GOES BAD

Headline of the day so far...

Could invasive ‘rocksnot’ be headed our way?

For the answer to this pressing question and others, read Rebecca Mersereau's Saving the Green in Tuesday's Courier.

Community Shocked

Legion president outraged by attack on
veteran, calls on comrades to support Matthews


By ROLLAND CHATER

I cannot comprehend how anyone could even think about hurting a frail man of 84 years of age but that’s what happened Sunday night when Herbert Matthews was attacked while he waited at the Deer Island ferry landing at L’Etete.
Matthews was a veteran from the Second World War and served with distinction in the Royal Canadian Naval Volunteer Reserve from 1942 until the war ended in 1945. He served in one of the most hostile and austere regions of the war, the North Atlantic and in the English Channel.
He wears with pride the 1939 – 1945 Star, the Canadian Volunteer Service Medal with Maple Leaf and the North Atlantic Star and stands tall every Remembrance Day remembering all those who died in battle and buried at sea, and the horrors that no young person should ever be subjected to. And now at the age of 84, and close to his dooryard back home, a brutal attack occurred.
Yes this man of honour was a veteran of this great country. He served with pride so that we back at home could live in peace and walk the streets of our hometowns without fear.
I wonder if this brutal act would have the same outcome if it had been a younger veteran, say from the Afghanistan war. But then again, a coward would not attack unless the prey was frail and could not defend himself.
I pray to the good Lord to give the justice system the sense to hand down an appropriate punishment, however saying that, I fully understand under the Canadian Law, that may not be possible, pity.
I call upon all veterans and seniors across this region to show support for one of our own, follow the justice system as it deals with this case, and may I suggest that if this case goes to trial we all should show up in uniform, wearing our medals, in support of our comrade. Let’s not allow our veteran to go through this alone.

Rolland Chater is president of Royal Canadian Legion Branch 40, St George.

Geo-caught

Geocachers bring out heavy artillery

Photos courtesy of Amanda Campbell

ST. STEPHEN – There was no malicious intent behind or danger connected to the placement of a suspicious package at the Visitor Information Centre in downtown St. Stephen on Sunday that resulted in several downtown streets being cordoned off while the RCMP awaited the arrival of the force’s Explosive Disposal Unit based in Fredericton.
The package was placed at the tourist bureau in the town square as part of a Global Positioning System (GPS) exercise called “geocaching” where participating individuals match coordinates and locations and log results on the internet, said RCMP Sgt. Gary Cameron, J Division’s public relations officer.
“They (the local RCMP) have located the person who put it there and there was no malicious intent,” said Cameron.
He confirmed that pedestrian and vehicle traffic was rerouted for about an hour as a precaution until the package was examined and deemed not to be a threat.
Cpl. Bob MacKnight of the St. Stephen Municipal RCMP detachment said the police received word of a suspicious person and activity in the vicinity of the Visitor Information Centre. Police responded and located a small, unidentified container, about the size of a deck of cards placed on the back of a large sign.
Cpl. MacKnight said a similar incident occurred last week in Ontario where a bridge was blocked by police and an unidentified package blown up. That package also turned out to be related to a geocaching treasure hunt.
Geocaching, a high-tech treasure hunt, is popular worldwide and there are many caches to discover in Charlotte County.
The basic idea behind the treasurer hunts is to locate containers hidden outdoors called geocaches, using GPS coordinates, and then share the hunt experiences online.
A quick survey of the internet, obtained by entering a local postal code, showed results for hunts at the Rollingdam Covered Bridge, Digdeguash Covered Bridge, Cranberry Lake and Maxwell Crossing.
Cpl. MacKnight said he suggests people who want to engage in this activity should clearly mark the packages they place, identifying the contents, if any, to avoid any further similar incidents.

SEND US YOUR ANGEL STORIES

The Hells Angels are meeting in Charlotte County this weekend. Send your sightings or stories to editor@stcroixcourier.ca

Calling all tough guys

Contest organizer calls out tough guys

By KATHY BOCKUS
kathy@stcroixcourier.ca

ST. STEPHEN – So, you think you’re a tough guy, eh?
Well, here’s your chance to prove it – to yourself and the rest of the community.
The annual Tough Man Competition is ready to roll Sunday, Aug. 3 at 3 p.m. on the waterfront in downtown St. Stephen as part of the International Homecoming Festival
While organizer Rob Porter says he won’t reveal beforehand any of the tasks contestants must complete during this year’s event, he does say that the winner of the competition will be a well-rounded athletic individual who knows when to mentally kick it into high gear.
The winner gets $250 and bragging rights, said Porter, who took over organizing the event two years ago, after competing and placing second and third several times.
Porter said he and some friends are into power lifting and “really got a hoot” out of the competition.
But he admits he never won the event.
“I was always a bridesmaid,” he said with a laugh.
The first thing Porter did when he took over as organizer was to get rid of one of the events in the competition – the wood piling, the one task he claims “killed” him each year.
“I don’t pile wood,” Porter said. “I don’t have a wood furnace. My parents don’t have one. So, I’d get in there and the first part of the event was stacking half a cord of wood.
“I couldn’t pile. I did everything else great. I’d come to that and I was just like a bull in a china shop.”
Porter says the individual who typically wins the Tough Man Competition is usually an all-around athlete, contrary to the public perception of a monstrous, muscle bound guy.
“There’s a perception that you have to be monstrous and strong,” said Porter.
“You do have to have some good, solid strength, but you have to be able to mentally pace yourself. It’s always an older guy that wins. We’ve had guys in their early 20s in there in great shape, but they never finish well.
“The last year I did it, I had no business even being out there I was in such poor shape I’ll tell you, but I think I finished third.
“There was Joe Moses and Aaron James, who had both won it years prior, and then me. There was a young fellow, 26, he looked like something out of a magazine, but he actually didn’t finish as well as some of us older guys.”
Porter said besides strength, agility and the ability to pace themselves, competitors must have one more trait - “not wanting to lose.”
“Essentially about half way through, you are very winded,” said Porter. “Your brain’s telling ya, you know what? It’s not going to be a big deal if I drop these things and say to the crowd, oooh, that was too hard. But for most of us, the local pride factor kicks in and gives you a little shot of adrenalin and you finish.”
Porter recalled Peter McKnight winning the competition the first year it was held.
“Myself, Joey Moses, Bob Mealey, we were all considerably stronger, but he managed to get the best time. He was quicker. He didn’t have 250 pounds to haul around body weight.
“While we had maybe a little easier time with the weight portion of things, his balance was what carried him through.”
Porter says he has taken all those factors into account – strength, agility and drive – in designing the course for this year.
“It really should probably be called ‘Personal Push’ or ‘drive’,” said Porter of the annual competition. “It’s sucking it up. It’s getting through the course. It’s a great way to face adversity. There’s physical adversity in front of you and you have to overcome it. It’s competing against others.”
Porter said the crowd watching the annual competition is always supportive and believes a lot of onlookers think, “Geez, I could probably do that quicker.”
He thinks people are reluctant to enter however, because they think it’s just for big guys who work out.
“But they’re getting fooled,” said Porter. “There was a guy who worked in the woods one year, probably mid-40s, he was up there, maybe third or fourth place, but it was a solid time.”
Porter said that each year, there is only about a 15 second disparity between the men who place in the top three or four positions.
He suggests an individual who would do well in the competition is a regular worker, someone who works in a grocery store setting or moving freight every day.
Porter wants to encourage people to enter the competition.
“It’s a fun competition. At the end of it, you really do kind of feel accomplished.”
He said although the competition is seen as a simple little thing in St. Stephen that takes about five minutes to complete, it’s draining.
“I tell you, it’s one of those things in life that at the end of it, you are tapped out.”
Porter said he doesn’t want everyone to be able to finish the course he’s designed.
“You want it to be special. It’s all right not to be able to finish something, but don’t quit. The next year, come back and do it.
“Don’t think the winner is going to be someone with huge, bulging muscles. It’s going to be someone with solid strength, good cardio and the drive of not wanting to lose.”

ARE YOU TOUGH ENOUGH?

Tough Man Competition organizer Rob Porter has issued a challenge and singled out some individuals he wants to see put their strength to the test in a course he designed.
Here are those Porter has challenged and why, in his own words:

ERIK DeJONG
Erik’s a little lighter, but hey, he’s supposed to be East Coast ACTION sports, let’s put it into action. Erik probably will do it.

DON FORSTER
An excellent all around athlete.

PAT ZWICKER
He pushed his wrestlers; wouldn’t it be nice for them to be able to see him out there? I know what his practices are like; I was a wrestling coach, too. He would do well.

ROSS DAVIS
An RCMP officer. Show us that he’s fit enough to keep us safe.

BOB MEALEY
Bob’s done it in the past. Probably one of the strongest guys in St. Stephen. He’s a big guy and he’s always done relatively well, but he’s finished in the middle of the pack. He should get out again. He’s skipped the last couple of years.

JOE BOUVIER
I don’t know how his knee is. I think the kids would like to see him out. He’s a teacher and plays for the Seahawks.

PETER McKNIGHT
He won the first year and then we didn’t see him again.
He’s resting on those laurels, so it’s time to put it back on the table.

AARON JAMES
He’s from Calais and he’s won once or twice. He’s a jeweller, but also runs a wrestling program in Calais. He’s very fit and he’s quite strong.

JOE MOSES
He’s won it three or four times. The Baileyville Banker, vice-president of the credit union over there. He actually holds New England records in power lifting and Olympic lifting. He’s strong but it’s his push that makes him win it.

MARK HUYS
St. Stephen High School football coach. I know he’s got a new baby at home, but I think he should be out there. He should be putting it to these younger guys.

JOSH CLONEY
A peace disturber on the ice for the Seahawks. He could get out and show us if he’s got the mustard.

BRETT ESTEY
He works at Livingston’s. He’s a guy who moves freight a lot, and a good friend.

Hey Tough Guys!

Tough Man Competition organizer Rob Porter is calling out some of the area's so-called toughest customers to challenge his course. Who's on the list? See the Saint Croix Courier, Tuesday, July 29, to find out.
Some of the names may surprise you.

PREDICTION TIME

Working? E-mailing friends? Well it's time for MORE IMPORTANT THINGS

Miss International contestants unveiled

Jessica Cogswell, 18-year-old daughter of Amanda and Joey Cogswell, of St. Stephen, N.B. Jessica attends St. Stephen High School. Her hobbies are singing, camping, canoeing, and watching movies. Jessica plans to attend the University of New Brunswick in Fredericton and complete a Bachelor of Arts and Science. She is sponsored by Guy R. Day and Son.

Courtney Hill, 17-year-old daughter of John and Paula Hill, of Calais, Maine. Courtney attends Calais High School. Her hobbies are basketball, softball, soccer, swimming, dancing and hanging out with friends and family. Courtney plans on going to college for business management.
Rebekah Cox, 18-year-old daughter of Martha and John Cox Jr., of Machias, Maine. Rebekah attends the University of Maine at Machias. Her hobbies are photography, lobster fishing, softball, cheerleading, 4-wheeling, singing, bowling, collecting old bottles, traveling, camping and mudding. Rebekah plans to graduate college and continue lobster fishing. She is sponsored by Orchard’s Paint and Paper, Ltd.
BreAnna Lea Beal, 17-year-old daughter of Mitchell and D’Anna Beal of Beals Island, Maine. BreAnna attends Jonesport-Beals High School. Her hobbies are basketball, softball, volleyball, hunting and fishing and going to the lake with family and friends. Her future plans are to attend college to become either a Family Nurse Practitioner or a heart surgeon. BreAnna is sponsored by Lyons Seafood and Let Us Letter It.
Ashley Rose Gallway, 16-year-old daughter of Emily and John Gallway of Baileyville, Maine. Ashley attends Woodland Sr/Jr. High School. Her hobbies are dance, church choir, youth group, band, soccer, basketball, flute, piano and being with friends and family. Her future plans are to attend UMO for nursing. Ashley is sponsored by V.L. Tammaro.

Katherine Sivret, 18-year-old daughter of Sherry and David Sivret, of Calais, Maine. Katherine is attending Southern Maine Community College. Her hobbies are dancing, singing, scrap booking, traveling, playing paint ball, mudding, spending time with friends and family. Katherine plans to graduate college and become a music teacher. She is sponsored by the Calais Advertiser.
Rosemary Skodje, 18-year-old daughter of Stig and Rosalie Skodje, of St. George, N.B. Rosemary attends Fundy High School. Her hobbies are dance, sports and music. She plans to study nursing at UNBSJ. Rosemary is sponsored by The Saint Croix Courier.

Tommies rookie a big hit

Chuck Brown/Courier

Colleen Harrington, 18, of St. Stephen, has cracked the lineup of the women’s provincial Under-19 team that will compete for a national championship in Ottawa next month.


Former Spartan makes impact at STU, joins provincial team for national tourney

By CHUCK BROWN
editor@stcroixcourier.ca

ST. STEPHEN – Seven years ago Colleen Harrington was among the first group of St. Stephen girls to try the sport of rugby.
At the time the game was a middle school after-school activity and it was completely new – not at all like soccer and only a little like football with weird position names like flanker and hooker and scrum half.
Harrington and a core of players connected instantly with the rough-and-tumble game, growing with the girls program into the high school ranks. Harrington, 18, played with the St. Stephen Spartans through her four years of high school and, in the key position of scrum half, helped establish the team as a force in the province. They never won a title but they were and are always in the hunt.
Harrington is now coming off a rookie-of-the-year season playing for St. Thomas University where she’s working on an environmental economics degree. She made a strong impression with STU and gives all the credit to the early coaching she got in St. Stephen.
“I think our high school coaches taught us really well,” said Harrington, home for the summer and lifeguarding at the Milltown pool.
“They prepared me really well.”
She had low expectations in her first year at university and expected her days in the spotlight would be at least temporarily on hold. But she said her coaches made it clear early in the season that age and experience meant nothing and that playing time would go to those who performed.
“I didn’t think I’d play at all,” Harrington said.
She said playing at the university level is a whole new game but she’s adjusted.
“I was intimidated at first. The girls were a little bit bigger and a little bit stronger,” she said.
Harrington helped the Tommies win their first ever Atlantic Colleges Athletic Association women’s rugby title last season, kicking a convert after the game’s only try in a 7-0 win over the Nova Scotia Agricultural College. She was named an all-conference all-star after the Tommies’ finished the season 5-1.
This summer, Harrington is focusing on New Brunswick’s Under-19 women’s team, made up mostly of players from the Saint John area. They’re practicing out of Belleisle – the rugby capital of the province – and playing tournaments and exhibitions to tune up for the nationals from Aug. 18 to Aug. 24 in Ottawa.
Harrington said the provincial team played its first game together in the Saint John Trojans’ tournament two weeks ago and ended up winning it all. Last weekend they traveled to Prince Edward Island to play in the Eastern Canadian Championship against teams from Ontario, Quebec and the Atlantic provinces. New Brunswick finished second after going five years without cracking the top three.
“We’re very excited,” Harrington said of the team’s momentum heading into the national tournament.
She said the competition will be tough and New Brunswick will face provinces with larger populations to draw from including Ontario, British Columbia and Alberta. But while New Brunswick is often happy to win one game at the nationals, Harrington said the team is confident this year.
“We’re ready. We want to win,” she said.
Harrington and her teammates are currently selling advertising in the Telegraph-Journal newspaper as a fundraiser. They’re also selling raffle tickets to help cover the $2,000 per player expense.
She also plans to bring some of her ever-expanding rugby knowledge back to St. Stephen. Harrington was back on the field with the Spartans last spring, when her college classes were finished, working with the girls as much as she could.
“I learned so much with the STU team from the players and the coaches,” she said, adding that she wants to give something back to the Spartans, a team she said she’ll always feel she’s a part of.

Life on the Z List not all it’s cracked up to be!

I am Mark Taylor. I write a column for the Courier called Still Rollin’ on the River. I had a lady call me last night after reading the Courier cover to cover and in the process; editor Chuck Brown’s and my column. After I hung up, I wasn’t sure what she was coming at, maybe somebody can tell me.

She reads the Courier religiously cover to cover every week and thought that the columns are the biggest pieces of foolishness going. She couldn’t fathom where I get all my ideas and said my head must hurt a lot. Any former editors wouldn’t publish such nonsense and I gather she thinks Chuck is a little out there for publishing it. Well, I got into this through Chuck years ago, and did continue with the same foolishness after he took a hiatus. Granted, the new regime didn’t share the same passion for my work that Chuck did and there were some philosophical differences.

I think that when somebody can pull out a story you wrote weeks ago and quote it to you; I’m not sure what that means. Most people probably have used it to start the fire or it is in the bottom of their birdcage. She told me about how I said George W. Bush was on coke. I corrected her and told her that wasn’t what I said. I said, “The Globe newspaper said George Bush was on coke.” She told me she wasn’t all that smart and didn’t read the Globe.

She thought I was a smart man though, seeing how I was a paramedic and all. No, that’s Mark MELANSON, not me but I’ll take the compliment nonetheless. I still don’t know if she hates my work or loves it. Maybe it’s like slamming down straight booze. You don’t like it, but it puts you in an altered state that makes you feel better for a little while.

In any case, I never realized that being a Z list celebrity was such a big deal that somebody would take the time out of the busy late night to call you and tell you what they think of you. God bless Charlotte County!

CALLING ALL SCULPTORS

Kingsbrae Garden offers big prize to sculptors
Competition offers artists a chance to win $10,000

ST. ANDREWS – Kingsbrae Horticultural Garden in St. Andrews is holding the first in an annual series of competitions for sculptors starting this fall.
First prize in the 2009 competition is $10,000. The second-place winner will receive $5,000. Each successful entrant will also receive $500 towards expenses.
To celebrate its 10th anniversary season, Kingsbrae Garden has combined art and horticulture in a brand-new garden exhibition space currently under construction where each year's winning works will be on permanent display, adding to the current collection.
Extensive water features and innovative plantings will enhance the sculptors' creations in the new sculpture garden at the 11-hectare public garden. The prize winners' and other successful applicants' sculptures will be on display all season at Kingsbrae Garden; all but the top two will be for sale. Winning sculptors may submit another work for sale, if desired.
Sculptures must be original works, at least three feet tall, made of durable materials to withstand weather and direct sunlight. Media such as stone, metal, wood, fibreglass and marble are all acceptable; as are accents of other materials, such as glass, PVC or mylar.
The contest is open to all artists living and working in Canada. Entrants' submissions are requested by mid-October for preliminary judging. Maquette, drawing or photo is required, along with contest entry form, available at www.kingsbraegarden.com/sculptures.

Rock on the block

FREDERICTON – One of two remaining franchises of the original five that formed the Southern Hockey League at the start of the 2001 season is on the block.
League president Sheldon Currie announced late last week that the River Valley Rock franchise is for sale.
Along with the Blacks Harbour Silverkings, the Rock have played in every one of the league’s eight seasons. Remarkably, they have been finalists in seven of their eight seasons, winning the league championship twice.
In 2007-08, the team posted a 12-11-1 regular season record, finishing fourth overall. In the playoffs, River Valley won a best-of-five quarterfinals match 3-1 against the St. Stephen Seahawks before bowing out in four straight to the eventual league and provincial champion Grand Lake Thrashers.
By the Rock’s standard, 2007-08 was a sub-par season on the ice. Reports indicate that attendance at the River Valley Civic Centre in Grand Bay, home ice for the team, was way down.
The league attributes this factor to a weakened Saint John Blackhawks organization and the disappearance of a clear rival.
Though the sale of one of its keystone franchises appears to spell trouble for the league, Currie said at the senior level, it is natural to see fluctuation.
“Every year in the off-season we anticipate folks involved with their respective franchises will take time to reflect on their commitment,” said Currie.
“We were aware the committed people were nearing the end of giving back to the community. Running an organization for eight years can take a lot out of you,” he said.
Currie explained that there are three options when it comes to the sale of the Rock – The club can be acquired by a new ownership group and continue to operate out of Grand Bay-Westfield, it can be purchased and moved to a new location, or, if the first two scenarios fail, it can be folded entirely.
For obvious reasons, folding the club would be the least desirable scenario for the league and the Rock brand.
Currie said that River Valley has been a model for other teams in the league since its first season of competition, he called the contribution the Rock has made invaluable.
“The organization was first class… People involved such as Donnie and Shirley Miles from an ownership point of view and Steve Evans and Ernie Thompson from a management perch, were dedicated individuals,” said Currie.
Despite speculation that the Rock might not be the only team at risk (defending champion Grand Lake is rumored to be in a similar situation), Currie said that as of now, he has commitment from all existing franchises. Looking at the positive, he said the fact people are talking about the league means it is important to the communities that host SHL teams.
“Where once hockey was an October through March campaign, interest in the SHL remains strong all year long,” he said.
“You can’t watch the calender flip to October anymore and say ‘Well, it’s time to start thinking hockey.”
After this most recent season, where the league was basically three tiered, Grand Lake and Blacks Harbour on top, St. Stephen, River Valley and Fredericton fighting for third, and Saint John and the expansion Nackawic Hawks a distant last, the SHL has struck a competition committee that is expected to, among other things, recommend changes aimed at creating parity.
Parity, who’s in and who’s out, and what the SHL will look like this fall are some of the topics up for discussion at the league’s annual general meeting scheduled for sometime this month.
“We hope everyone has put 2007-08 behind them because it was last year,” said Currie, hopeful that the league would move forward and adapt to whatever changes it needs to.

Church desecrated

(Sari Boudreau/Courier) Rev. William Morton stands in front of the Anglican Church in Milltown where vandals painted the numbers 666 and other graffiti.

By SARI BOUDREAU
sari@stcroixcourier.ca

ST. STEPHEN – Vandals left their mark at St. Peter’s Anglican Church in Milltown this week.
On Tuesday and Wednesday night, vandals spraypainted satanic symbols on the side of the church, on the walkway, front door and sign.
“We’re washing some of it off. We’re doing the best that we can,” said Rev. William Morton.
“It’s going to cost us. We all know about insurance deductibles and things like that.”
Morton said this act was probably done by one or two people, but it will place a stigma on all young people in town. He said he doesn’t want to see St. Stephen youths condemned as a whole because of the actions of a few.
Also vandalized were signs and Canada Post boxes along Queensway, as well as a sign on Milltown Boulevard.
“They spray painted a church, but then you get down Queensway, and they’ve done it on signs and mail boxes. What have they got against Canada Post?” Morton said.
The matter is under investigation by St. Stephen RCMP and anyone who has any information about the vandalism is asked to call 466-7030.

Not such a proud Canadian today

By CAROLE MACKENZIE
Guest Commentary

As I write this, it is one day after Canada Day. The day I declared to be “Proud to be Canadian.”
Today I am NOT proud to have any connection with my country’s name being a part of the Order of Canada.
Reading the July 2 newspaper re: Dr. Henry Morgentaler being nominated for the Order of Canada, my soul cried and the sadness I felt to have my great country, Canada, honour Dr. Henry Morgentaler, the man who made/makes millions to kill, murder or tear babies apart (a child is a child inside the womb or outside. It is not a choice, it is a child. Replace “choice” with “responsibility”) by giving Morgentaler the “country’s highest civilian honour to recognize a lifetime of outstanding achievement and dedication to community.” This takes my breath away, it takes my pride away and it takes millions of innocent little babies away, by a death that is horrific.
Often it is necessary to separate government from country to stand proud, but when the government, or its officials use our country’s name for such despicable reasons, then you tend to even want to separate yourself from your country’s name. Please consider renaming the Order of Canada, as Canadians are a proud people and would then have the option of separating themselves from these abhorrent acts and be able to stand up and say we are proud of our country.
The high court of Canada allowed Morgentaler be instrumental in striking down the Criminal Code restrictions on abortion (as it IS criminal to take a life) to make Canada the only western democracy with no criminal sanction of any kind against abortion. In other words, we are the only western country that allows babies to be murdered.
God forgive us!
Quoting Judy Rebick, feminist, “Dr. Morgentaler is a change agent, and we should celebrate that in this country.” I believe “we” should celebrate life, not death in our great country.
Ian Hunter is Professor Emeritus in the Faculty of Law at the University of Western Ontario – “Giving Dr. Morgentaler the Order of Canada is a symbol of moral decay. Do not honour men without honour.”
God help our children if we set Dr. Morgentaler up as an example of a Canadian hero. In our great land is there not a more deserving person? So many contributions have been made to our country by just and honourable people. Where are they when you have the honours to present? Forgotten? Lost? How proud we should be of a person receiving the Order of Canada. How disgraced to demoralize that honour.
The Order of Canada award will be nothing more than a piece of garbage from the gutter from the day on, if it is given to Morgentaler
As they say in the United States, “God Bless America,” I say, “God Forgive Canada.”

Carole Mackenzie lives in Beaver Harbour.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR - Courier Weekend, July 4, 2008

Morgentaler doesn’t deserve honour

“He risked his life for the rights of women…” reads an online news article regarding Morgentaler being among the Order of Canada recipients. Shame on those who made this appointment. What about the rights of that wee, yet unborn, child? Where, may I ask, are our hearts and our heads?
Young expectant mothers went to him, frightened and vulnerable. Thinking an abortion would solve their problem, they were plunged into terrible guilt. This led some to alcohol and drug abuse and some to suicide. We do not blame them or point an accusing finger, but to honour a man, the “Father of Abortion,” is absolutely appalling.
We have just celebrated “Canada Day.” We stood at attention and sang
“O Canada, our home and native land,
True patriot love in all thy “sons” command.
With glowing hearts, we see thee rise
The true north strong and free
From far and wide
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
God keep our land, glorious and free
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
Who is Canadian? Is not that unborn child? Is not that young expectant mother? By honouring Morgentaler with the Order of Canada, we truly do not believe we can now sing, “we stand on guard for thee.”
What constitutes Canada? Is it not the people? Perhaps the anthem should then be, “we stand on guard for ‘some’ not all” for who was standing on guard for those thousands of aborted little babies or for that frightened, vulnerable expectant mother? Some Canadians (not all) have now honoured a man with Canada’s highest honour that places absolutely no value on the unborn child or women’s emotional, spiritual or mental state. Deplorable! Who, but God, knows what potential those little ones had with their moms.
Lastly, after reading this online article and hearing of this recognition on the news, we shudder to think how the other recipients of the Order feel as they are categorized with a man such as Morgentaler.
Sincerely,
Kim and Brenda Smith
Oak Bay


Morgentaler not worthy of Order of Canada

I cannot believe that Dr. Morgentaler is being considered for the Order of Canada. The pain that has been caused far outweighs any potential good he has done. I believe that he has not advanced human rights at all in Canada and has caused nothing but controversy. He is not a worthy candidate for such a prestigious honor.
It is time for someone to speak against this unwise decision. We, the people of Canada, need to hear our leaders state publicly that the concept of Dr. Morgentaler receiving the Order of Canada is offensive and divisive.
Robert Weaver
Wilson's Beach, NB

Take responsibility for bridge accident

I have been waiting to see if the person who caused the accident at the bridge in St. George would come forward.
But apparently this person has no conscience, as it has not happened.
I heard that the noise was heard inside of the bank, so I am assuming that it was quite a crash, something that should have been heard within a few feet of the crash most certainly.
I do not know the circumstances as to just what happened but the results could have been a lot worse. People could have been killed.
To the person who caused this accident, I am glad that this was not the case. But either way, the police are looking for you.
I am assuming again that it would be a lot better and easier for you in a court of law if you came forward on your own, instead of them finding out first.
If you know what you did, and have any idea how serious it could have been, then do the right thing before it is too late.
How would you feel if it was you who was in the truck. This guy saved your life by doing what he did. Your family could have had your funeral to go to, or you could have had any other kinds of injuries.
This guy who thought of you, when he veered away, and put his own life and the lives of his passengers in danger, deserves to know someone out there appreciates what he did for you.
But that is just my opinion.
Ernest Hatt
St. George

Some call it Pilltown, I call it Paradise

NB Images

KRISTA CAMPBELL
WITTICISMS and CRITICISMS

I live in Milltown. To Courier readers who live outside the realm of St. Stephen and/or Calais, that bold statement may not mean much. To them, Milltown may be no more than a place to drive hastily through on the way to that other border. But for locals, Milltown has often been the scapegoat for all that is wrong with this area. Upon admitting my humble address, I am often regarded with pity, as people look at me doubtfully and say, “Do you, really?”
Sometimes referred to by its less-than-flattering nickname, “Pilltown”, my neighborhood has been linked to drug dealers, alcoholics, and whatever constitutes organized crime around these parts. Milltown is the “bad” part of town.
Even though Milltown is really a part of St. Stephen it has always had its own separate identity, and colourful personality. It probably started with the first folks who lived in this part of town – the mill workers. They worked at the cotton mill and many of them lived nearby; they were simple, working-class folks who worked hard and likely played hard, too.
But times have changed, and so has Milltown. Anyone driving through this part of town now would never suspect it has any sort of reputation. In contrast, a drive down the main street of St. Stephen can be a sobering experience. The gaping, blank-eyed store-fronts, mangled, muddy streets, and air heavy with the exhaust fumes of cars sitting in long border line-ups are enough to make anyone just keep on driving.
As that drive continues along Milltown Boulevard, there is a perceptible change in the air – it seems fresher, purer somehow. If Milltown begins at Buchanan’s Hill, the first sight the “town” offers is right at the top. Dover Hill Park combines colourful, exotic flowerbeds with rustic paths leading to scenic views of the St. Croix River. It’s where starry-eyed couples get their wedding pictures taken and is one of four green spaces in Milltown. The tree lined street beyond (most streets in Milltown are tree-lined) boasts a parade of Victorian homes, each with immaculate lawns, perfectly-trimmed shrubbery, and glorious flowerbeds. Milltown Boulevard then lazily weaves past more stately houses and the monument to our mill workers, made all the more impressive by the lovely landscaping surrounding it. Directly below is the picturesque dam and hydro-electric station where the water will be gurgling and splashing in a most refreshing way, as it always does.
On the left is the jewel in Milltown’s crown, a stunning recreational area, which incorporates a basketball court, two baseball diamonds, another of our well-kept green spaces, a children’s playground, and the new swimming pool. On any given day this spot is crowded with children and families sliding in the winter, and playing games and swimming in the summer. Milltown residents take great pride in this spiffy addition to our humble berg. Though there was a problem with vandalism when the pool was first being built, I suspect it may have been the work of frustrated St. Stephen youngsters, who were jealous of Milltown’s new addition. In fact, with the elegantly understated Milltown Elementary School positioned right alongside these amenities, that part of town now resembles a posh Algonquin-like resort. I’m surprised more tourists don’t cruise down the winding driveway and try to check in for the night!
Any practical needs like snacks or a bathroom break are easily taken care of at the Milltown Irving, which has everything anyone could possibly need, including newspapers, magazines, a bank-machine, coffee, movies, slushies, and most important of all, helpful, friendly staff. A right turn at the Irving reveals another green space, and tennis courts. Further down Milltown Boulevard is the Charlotte County Museum, which is the main historical attraction in our region. That’s right, St. Stephen, Milltown has culture, too!
One of the best things about Milltown, though, is that everything is within walking distance for everyone who lives here. It’s not unusual to see children coming from the pool with wet towels draped around their necks, or young couples pushing a stroller and eating an ice-cream they got at the Irving. As environmental issues become more of a concern and gas prices continue to climb, we here in Milltown will be happy to stay right where we are.
When I walk my dog we pass well-kept homes with bright green lawns and colourful gardens. People wave “hello” and smile as we pass. On any summer evening the air is full of the chirping of birds, the hum of lawnmowers, and distinctive smell of a barbecue, just like every other neighborhood.
Ozzie and Harriet themselves couldn’t have dreamed of a better place to live.

The DISorder of Canada

JENNIFER DICK
Guest Commentary

Each year on this day we celebrate the birth of our country. It seems rather ironic and sickening to me that the man responsible for preventing the birth of so many Canadians will be awarded Canada’s most prestigious Order of Canada. On Canada Day, abortionist Henry Morgentaler was honoured for being Canada's Father of Abortion. Not everyone will feel as I do, but in my opinion, and in the opinion of millions of other Canadians, it is a disgrace to my country to call such a man a hero in our nation. Canadian Pro Life groups are absolutely appalled at this decision. I’m with Douglas Farrow of the National Post, who wrote, “Henry Morgentaler’s Canada is not my Canada.”
This is the first time in history that the Order of Canada Advisory Committee has appointed someone without their normal unanimous consent. Back in February of this year, it was reported by LifeSiteNews that a group of abortion supporters were attempting to force an Order of Canada nomination of Dr. Morgentaler. This was followed by public outrage, which quickly dissipated with the media release from the office of the Governor General, who is responsible for granting the award, demonstrating that the list for 2008 nominations did not include Dr. Morgentaler. However, the regular Order of Canada Advisory Committee process may have been changed in order to ensure a Morgentaler nomination. In a June 28 email bulletin 4MYCANADA reported that "Normally anyone who receives this award does so by unanimous consent of the committee that approves nominees. From what we understand at this point, this committee, headed by Chief Justice Beverly McLachlin, PC, decided to override that protocol and take this one to a democratic vote on the committee. The majority of the committee voted in favour of Morgentaler's nomination and so, for (what we understand) may be the first time in history, the committee appointed someone without their normal unanimous consent - someone who millions of Canadians would not consider a hero in our nation."
In his article in the National Post on Monday, columnist Douglas Farrow reported that the decision is clearly not driven by popular demand: “For example, an online poll by the Globe and Mail, with over 300,000 respondents, went 92 per cent to 8 per cent against giving the award to Morgentaler.”
It is extremely disrespectful to the people of Canada for the committee to decide to give out such a controversial award, when it so gravely offends a very substantial number of Canadians. What does this say about the state of democracy in Canada?
It is well known that Morgentaler, more than any other person, is accountable for the fact that Canada currently has absolutely no law restricting or regulating abortion. Many people are unaware that this means up until the full delivery of an infant, or “fetus” as the medical community would like for me to call it (and clearly scientific terminology is used as a rather effective means of depersonalization and in this case dehumanization) a doctor can legally take the life of him or her. In simple terminology, this means the baby’s brains may legally be sucked out of its head, so long as part of the baby is still within the birth canal. They call this partial-birth abortion.
I don’t know about you, but I find this horrific and nauseating. Even most people who are pro-abortion agree that this procedure is unnecessary and brutal. However, Canadian legislation allows it, thanks to Dr. Morgentaler. Although some argue that Morgentaler’s “bravery” in bringing down an “unjust” law restricting abortions must not go unrewarded, many others argue that the real injustice is that Canada has no law at all against cutting up babies in the womb, or even half way exposed from the birth canal — indeed ours is the only “civilized” country without such a law.
I, for one, have lost my desire to celebrate Canada Day.

Happy Canada D'eh?!

It’s Happy Canada Day and in that spirit we’d like to join our readers today in celebrating, reveling, even marinading in the greatness of this country, its people, its resources and its culture.
We are perfect, no. But we realize this, and that is part of being Canadian. And so is a certain humility, sometimes almost embarrassment, about waving the maple leaf on this, our one day of the year, to shout and rant about the greatness of this country. Allow us to add a few more reasons to be proud of your country today with this list of Canadian people, places, things and inventions that spark, for us, the flame of national pride. And if we’ve left out something precious (and of course we have) let us know.

* Hockey (or basketball… or curling)
* Wayne Gretzky (or Sidney Crosby or Mike Weir)
* Celine Dion (or Alanis Morrissette or Shania Twain)
* The Toronto Blue Jays (hey, when they were good, they were GOOD)
* Eh? (Is it a question? Is it punctuation? Is it a word? Only a Canadian knows for sure)
* Tim’s (It is this country’s most widespread addiction. All things considered, we could be hooked on worse things)
* No medical bills
* Smarties (or Shreddies or dill pickle flavoured chips – OK some of these are available in the UK too)
* The queen is on our money.
* The Canadarm
* The goalie mask
* Five-pin bowling
* Fish (from the king cod to the wild salmon to the lobster to farmed fish of today, our finned and scaly friends have always been a staple)
* The Jolly Jumper
* Ogopogo (or the Lake Utopia Monster and we’ll lay claim to Big Foot too – he’s been spotted recently in Kokanee beer ads from British Columbia)
* Bloody Caesar
* The paint roller
* Trivial Pursuit
* The phone (love it or hate it, this Canadian invention ranks among those that had the most dramatic impact on the world over the past two centuries)
* The zipper (and if you’re wondering why your zipper has “YYK” on it, it’s the name of the world’s leading zipper maker – a Japanese company)
* Tommy Douglas (the Greatest Canadian, as named by CBC viewers in 2004 brought us Medicare, welfare, pensions and mothers’ allowances)
* The other greatest Canadians - Terry Fox, Pierre Elliott Trudeau, Sir Frederick Banting, David Suzuki, Lester B. Pearson, Don Cherry, Sir John A. Macdonald, Alexander Graham Bell and Wayne Gretzky (him again)
* Mike Myers (or Jim Carrey or John Candy)
* Speaking of candy… James and Gilbert Ganong (and Arthur and R. Whidden and David too… oh and Laura Secord)
* The Beaver
* Our war veterans (a disappearing national treasure)
* The canoe (and the bold, clear, wide and fresh rivers we paddle)
* The view (no matter where in Canada you are or where in Canada you’re from, the view from here is simply the best and we are all fortunate, and today we are all thankful, that when we look at the world we get to see it through the eyes of a Canadian).

Truck teeters from Magaguadavic bridge

Phun with Op Eds

We have another Tuesday holiday coming up which makes today, Friday, feel like a Monday. It's a newspaper biz phenomenon we call Fronday.

Usually on Frondays we like to play "Find the Self-Sufficiency" reference in Premier Shawn Graham's news releases but it got to be too easy. Our cat, Princess Maggie, was playing and scoring quite well. She's now working in the premier's office, actually.

So today we introduce a new Fronday game called: See if you can find the cheeky edit in Finance Minister Jim Flaherty's Op Ed.
It's a challenging one and you'll likely have to read every single word to find the ones we inserted. Good luck.

See if you can find the edit...


Providing responsible leadership in this period of global economic uncertainty

JIM FLAHERTY
Guest Commentay

Canada’s government is providing responsible leadership by focusing on the priorities of Canadians.
This is helping Canada weather this global economic storm.
A recent report from the OECD recognizes that Canada’s economic strengths and its policy recommendations largely accord with the direction our government is taking.
We reacted swiftly to this situation in the October Economic Statement and maintained our course in Budget 2008 by lowering taxes, reducing debt and investing in people, knowledge and communities.
To this end, and in support of our long-term economic plan, Advantage Canada, the Parliament has now passed Bill C-50. This legislation implements key measures of the 2008 federal Budget such as the innovative new Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA), a modern immigration system, more front line police officers, additional investments in public transit and further support for innovation, research, and post-secondary students. This legislation will strengthen our economic fundamentals and better position Canada to compete in the highly competitive global economy.
The Tax Free Savings Account, which comes into effect Jan. 1, 2009, is the single most important personal savings vehicle since the introduction of the RRSP. This flexible, registered, general-purpose account is the first of its kind in our history and will allow Canadians to watch their savings grow, tax-free. The response of Canadians has been overwhelmingly positive. To learn more, visit the Tax Free Savings Account calculator at www.budget.gc.ca to see for yourself how this initiative can benefit you.
Briefly, here is how the TFSA will work. First, Canadians can contribute up to $5,000 every year to a registered Tax-Free Savings Account. This is money that has already been taxed. Second, the investment income, the capital gains, interest or dividends, earned in the plan will be exempt from tax, even when withdrawn. Third, Canadians can withdraw from the account at any time without restriction. Better yet, there are no restrictions on what they can save for. Finally, the full amount of withdrawals may be re-contributed to a person’s Tax-Free Savings Account in the future, to ensure no loss in a person’s total savings room.
Bill C-50 also invests in people by modernizing the Canadian immigration system. It will shorten wait times and help make Canada’s economy more competitive. The objective is to create a system that will allow more immigrants into the country sooner -- whether it’s getting families reunited faster or getting skilled workers to work sooner.
The system will be fair, open and transparent. It will help create a Knowledge Advantage in Canada by matching the skills of newcomers with immediate labour market needs. As a result, newcomers will have more opportunities to find work sooner, to provide a better life for themselves and their families and thus succeed in the modern Canadian economy.
Our government recognizes the importance of education and how it contributes to the prosperity of our country. That is why we are investing in our future, with a new consolidated Canada Student Grant Program which will take effect in the fall of 2009. This major investment of $350 million in 2009–2010 will rise to $430 million in 2012–2013.
Going forward, all federal grants will be integrated into one program that will provide more effective support to more students for more years of study, assisting Canadian families who struggle with the cost of higher education.
The fact is that Canadian students and their families need simple, effective financial assistance programs. That is why we have also committed $123 million over four years starting in 2009–2010 to streamline and modernize the Canada Student Loans Program. Improvements will include expanded online services to help students better manage their loans, more equitable supports for part-time and married students, and enhanced flexibility for those students experiencing difficulty in debt repayment -- including those with disabilities.
The government is also helping learners and innovators contribute to our country’s future by enhancing the flexibility of RESPs, by investing in new scholarships for doctoral students, as well as dedicating funds for research such as health, industrial and automotive innovation, and social and economic development of the North.
Bill C-50 contains other important measures including support for the provinces and territories to recruit 2,500 new front-line police officers and investments in public transit infrastructure to reduce gridlock and keep Canada moving forward.
Our government shares Canadians’ desire for a better and more prosperous Canada. Bill C-50 builds upon this government’s work in previous budgets and economic statements and is part of our vision to achieve that goal. Canadians can be confident that this government will continue to act to ensure that our economic fundamentals remain solid today and long into the future. In bed.

It's not my fault I'm an addict

Patrick Cummins
An Alternate Aspect

There are, of course, always exceptions and on reading the following you will know if that is the case. But beware fooling yourself that it does not apply to you. The only result of a false diagnosis will be that you suffer even more.
Krista Campbell in her recent column, Witticisms and Criticisms, bemoaned the lack of effort required in today's world – the pampering and the ease with which everything is accomplished while removing any challenge. To this I would add the parallel growth of the “it's not my fault” culture.
So if you have the body mass index of a flatulent hippopotamus you whine: “It's not my fault I'm fat, it's genetic, or: “It's not my fault I take drugs, I'm an addict and can't help it” or: “It's not my fault I'm unemployed, nobody wants me.”
The provincial government is, of course, only too pleased to play along and even encourage this attitude. You can become fodder for their coterie of “Social Workers”, a.k.a. I went to university on government grants and wasted three years getting a worthless or unusable arts degree, couldn't get a job in the real world so swelled the ranks of the demonstrably inept and incompetent provincial civil service to counsel people like you.
This generates the perfect symbiosis, the employed but incompetent fool counselling the troubled and probably unemployed fool.
“No! Being overweight is not your fault it is because of your upbringing/genes/circumstances/anything but the truth, let's work on a plan to help you which we know will not work but will keep me employed and you on welfare or unemployment.”
If you need help at self-identification and are asking: “Can this possibly be me?” You probably drink Budweiser or Coors light, actually like Tim Hortons coffee and exist for six days a week on Kraft dinner with a culinary treat of fried fish fingers or 'burger on the seventh day.
Here’s a simple example of our leaders' folly. The provincial government knows it is encouraging prescription drug abuse and by extension the addiction to illegal drugs by its action, or lack thereof, in the issuing and control of prescriptions. A quick start to control these would be to charge the doctor (say $50) for every prescription form, suitably copy protected, and not refund the monies until the original form was redeemed. But the approach is to not even attempt to control these deadly missives because the medical profession refuses to co-operate. So, again, the province abdicates its responsibility. Then, to make matters worse, the government proposes methadone clinics which, if anything, do nothing but replace a manageable but illegal addiction with an unmanageable legal addiction.
One could detail many other forms of government facilitation of short sighted, inept behaviour, suffice to say their own conduct serves as the model they choose to operate by.
By any standard of logic, the caring “you poor lost soul” approach should be replaced with a swift kick up the backside and the admonition to “get a life.” The only reason you are grossly fat, sorry, overweight, is because you determine that will be the case: YOU eat too much. You are an addict because YOU and only you take drugs. You are an alcoholic because YOU drink too much, period! But of course, in this day and age, logic is long departed and only fools are left to counsel us.
Failure to take control, to take action may result in a wasted life, welfare, unemployment, living in flophouses or on the street. A bleak, blank existence, spirit unfulfilled and probably an early agonizing death. Agonizing because you will realize, as you depart, that you could have done so much better and the only reason you failed is YOU.
You are the only one who can better your lot. Do it. NOW!

Patrick Cummins appears every second Friday. He WANTS to hear your comments and criticisms. E-mail him at brook99a@myrealbox.com or comment online at saintcroixcourier.blogspot.com

Truck hangs from bridge

Claudette Norman/submitted photo
A truck hangs from a bridge over the Magaguadavic River on Thursday afternoon. There were no injuries and occupants of the truck got out the passenger side doors.

Our bad...

CORRECTION
In the June 27 Courier Weekend we reported that construction work on King Street in St. Stephen will be completed by July 8. In fact the work is slated for completion on July 18.