The River View February 2026

Finding Comfort and Community Through Art

Q&A with

LISA BUTLER

BY KRISTEN LAWSON

Lisa Butler loved poetry and art growing up in Newfoundland. She continued writing poetry throughout her life, but only took up painting and drawing again in the last ten years. She began to pursue art full-time in 2021, then moved to New Brunswick in 2023.

Since arriving, the self-taught artist has had her work in the Bright & Brine Art Gallery and Maritime Crafts & More craft store. She was the Arts Council’s featured artist in September, then had her piece Hope displayed at the library in December.

Q:Howdidyougetback intopainting?

In 2016 my brother was diagnosed with brain cancer. He had a rock painting business, and was doing pretty well with it at the local markets. He passed away two months after being diagnosed. Instead of throwing away his paint I took it

home. I started painting my grief. There was no rhyme or reason, I was just using the paint. It made me feel better. I had another death in the family and it continued to be a way to cope.

I stumbled upon my style while extracting negative emotions from myself. I used a lot of vibrant colors, a lot of motion and excitement, but still an element of darkness.

I became known for my semi-abstract daisy paintings. The background was my whirlwind of emotions, but at the end there was the light, and finding a way to love life despite the loss.

When my former husband was in the hospital I took all my

aggression out on a piece of driftwood. When it was done, I thought it was beautiful because it represented what life is; it's ups and downs. It's good and bad.

I find much comfort in painting. It's a piece of myself that I'm putting on the canvas. If I never lost my brother, I don't know if I would've gotten back into art. I think he would be happy for me.

Q:Whydidyoudecideto pursueartfull-time?

In 2020-21, I was going through such emotional torture about whether or not to resign from my job, so I shared a bunch of my poems on a poetry site. The feedback was very encouraging.

VOLUME 2, ISSUE 10

PUBLISHER: Eric Lawson

SALES MANAGER: Brian Lane

DESIGNER: Amy Bennett

Published by A View of the Tides Communications

Distributed free in public buildings, apartment buildings, retirement residences, convenience stores, and retail and service waiting rooms from Alma to Salisbury.

Welcome

There is a distinctly outdoorsy feel to our February issue. We take a look at winter carnivals in Salisbury, Riverview, and Fundy Albert, contributor Don Coleman shares his personal take on getting outside in the winter, and we also explore the concept of linking trails to urban centres under the Trail Town initiative.

Two guest chefs guide us through a maple-syrup inspired Valentine’s Day recipe and Trish LeClair shares her passion for her creation, the imaginative world of Bobbleberry Hollow.

Two new columnists also join us for this issue: Jeff Melnychuk shares insights about a subject on everyone’s mind at this time of year – the growing amount of daylight we are beginning to enjoy; and student Sophie Duplessis shares her thoughts on society from a young person’s perspective.

Publisher: Eric Lawson at 506 863 7324 or via viewofthetides@gmail.com

For advertising information, please contact Brian Lane at 506 860 0015 or via lane309@gmail.com

OUR PEOPLE OUR STORIES

2026 PUBLISHING DATES

FEBRUARY 5, 2026

MARCH 5, 2026

APRIL 2, 2026

MAY 7, 2026

JUNE 4, 2026

JULY 2, 2026

SEPTEMBER 3, 2026

OCTOBER 1, 2026

NOVEMBER 5, 2026

DECEMBER 3, 2026

Art is our other great theme – along with Bobbleberry Hollow, we feature the library’s public art program and offer a Q&A interview with local artist Lisa Butler. Cath Collette gives her always-perceptive take on books and the public library shares its February programs.

Yes, there is a lot of snow – there is also a lot to do!

Sweater weather is here – enjoy!

Eric Lawson Publisher

Continued from page 1

One was inspired by a walk on a trail when I could smell the odor of the earth. Everybody knows what that is, if you've been out after a fresh rainfall. To capture that and put it in words, and to have people tell me how much it meant to them, brought me to tears. I needed to make room in my life for this.

I would not want to look back and regret that I didn't do what I really wanted to do. I don't care if I have to go back to pumping gas like in my twenties. At least I tried. I want to teach my son to try.

Q:Wheredoyoudraw inspirationfrom?

My inspiration comes from nature. I didn't have a true appreciation for nature until around the time my brother passed away. In life we have children, there's demands and work. I was too busy to enjoy the sweet things.

I can see a rock and be motivated to write a poem because we take too much for granted. These things might look simple but they’re not simple. Everything is a miracle. My little contribution to the world is to take what I see and convert it to what I feel, and let you see it that way, and hopefully you can relate to it.

Q:Whatdoyouwantto work on next?

There's new wildlife here that I hadn't seen in Newfoundland. The heron that I'm working on now, I actually get to see it in real life, and I get to paint it! A bobcat is probably my next painting, because I'd never seen one until I moved here.

I feel like a child again. We all have a kid in us and we're all creative in some way. Whether it's making homemade goods or woodworking, everybody has something

that makes them feel that time stops. It makes your mood, your life, better. I started a Newfoundland poetry book before my mom passed away two years ago. I had put some of them out on Newfoundland Facebook groups and had an overwhelming response. One lady wrote “I have read your poem many times, and every time I read it I cry because I miss Newfoundland so much”. I'd like to publish that book.

Q:Whydidyouleave Newfoundland?

My sister and her family have been living in Riverview for nearly 30 years. My son was going to go to university in Saint John. My mom knew that I wanted to be near my son. She was 82 and had been in Newfoundland nearly her whole life but she wanted to come.

Q:Howhaveyoufound life in Riverview?

I find this place really welcoming. All the artists I've met have been wonderful. When you're in a new place, especially at my age, you don't know anybody and don't know what to do to expand. When the opportunity came up to be the RAC featured artist I was going to take it, it didn’t matter how busy I was! I'm also hoping to do their art show in November.

Q:Isthereanythingelse youwanttoshare?

I love what I do, and I love that people are interested in it. The biggest message I have for people is: regardless of your age, if there's something you really want to do, make it a priority. Pursuing something I loved changed my life for the better.

BY DON COLEMAN

FThe Wonders of Winter

ollowing the glory of summer with all of its life and eventful playfulness, the colours and sustenance of the autumn harvest bring the haunting sounds of Canadian geese overhead. The pesky mosquitos, the tourists in Winnebagos and the sounds of lawnmowers diminish into a bittersweet calm, and sense of serenity. The bare deciduous trees and the silent grasses, for many, create an annual time of

reflection. The joys and emotional moments of the forthcoming holiday season culminate into the beginning of a new year, and the heart of the winter season blossoms.

Winter brings the smell of maple scented smoke in the air, hot chocolate, skating and playing shinny on frozen ponds, brisk winter walks, winter carnivals and busting arenas filled with parents who remember the 1972 Canada-Russia hockey series and their children

who dream of being the next Sydney Crosby or Connor McDavid. A time when songwriters compose hit songs, writers pen their next paperback novels, quilters create their colourful masterpieces and neighbours play cribbage and such gathered by cozy fires. Walks through forests and parks bundled up in warm attire, skiing or taking to the trails on a sled or four-wheeler, bring rosy cheeks to those who dare to venture

out into the cold.

There is no better time to enjoy the antics of chickadees, cardinals, woodpeckers, nuthatches, finches, crows, blue jays and squirrels, who fence and dance their way around the feeders, on a mission to eat as many sunflower seeds and as much suet, as possible.

As chimneys send smoke signals spreading a gospel of hope and dreams of springtime ahead, thrill seekers

board airplanes and adventure to warm beaches in faraway places. Winter winds and snowstorms instill a renewed appreciation for the comfort and shelter of our beloved homes, as the fauna follow suit in their nests, dens and carefully crafted hideouts.

Like any time of year and for that matter any moment at any time, life is what we make it.

Living in a region that brings four seasons to enjoy is a blessing to be

embraced. Whatever the groundhog happens to say, enjoy the moment and seize the day!

•

Ingredients:

• Shortbread Cookies

• 1 cup butter softened

• 1 tsp vanilla

• 1/2 cup icing sugar

• 1/4 cup corn starch

• 1 1/2 cups flour

Maple Chocolate Ganache

• 1 cup chocolate chips

• 4 tbsp maple syrup (or milk)

Icing

• 1/4 cup softened butter

• 1 tsp vanilla

• 1 1/2 cups icing sugar

• 2 tbsp maple syrup (or milk)

• Food colouring (optional)

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 325 degrees F.

Cookies

1. Cream together butter, vanilla, icing sugar and corn starch, mix well.

2. Gradually add flour.

3. Form into a large ball in mixing bowl. Cover and chill for 2 hours.

4. When cool place dough on lightly floured cutting board. Roll out and use cookie cutters to shape.

5. Place the cookies on a baking sheet. Bake for approximately 20 minutes until cookies begin to brown on the edges.

6. Let cool completely on cooling rack.

Maple Chocolate Ganache

1. Heat chocolate chips and maple syrup in microwave safe measuring cup or small bowl for 30 seconds, stir well. Repeat until mixture is soft and creamy.

2. Let stand for 10 – 15 minutes.

Icing

Cream butter and vanilla and maple syrup together. Gradually add icing sugar. Add a few drops of food colouring if desired. Mix well

Decorating

Place cookies on large cutting board. Decorate with ganache, icing, and sprinkles as desired. Add any additional Valentine’s Day decorations you like to your serving plate! We used a beautiful rose bouquet as a centre piece.

Brigg’s Maples

BOOK VIEWSBY GAIL COLLETTE

Apublic library favorite lately is My Name is Emilia del Valle by Isabel Allende. Some of Allende’s best work is historical fiction about strife in her native Chile.

On a lighter note is Rick Mercer’s Final Report. In this nonfiction, Mercer takes moments from some of his fifteen seasons of the Mercer Report. The satire of his monologues on Canadian issues may have a tone of exasperation, even anger, but there always seems to be a love of country at its core.

The author of My Name is Emilia del Valle, Isabel Allende, escaped from persecution in Chile in the 1970s. The setting of this storey however is the Chilean Civil War in 1891.

Emilia Claro grows up in the Mission District of San Francisco and is witness to the oppression of immigrants and their unjust working conditions. She feels toughened by her experiences. Emilia writes human interest stories for a local newspaper. She sees an opportunity to go to war-torn Chile and write about those experiences. Emilia approaches her disapproving boss. She says, “…Spurred by sheer insolence I managed to have my way.”

Emilia readies herself to travel to Chile with her newspaper colleague, Eric Whalen. Her mother instructs Emilia to confront her biological father that is a Chilean aristocrat.

On one side of the civil war are the rebels that will no longer tolerate the unjust treatment of the lower classes. Some are helpless as their children die of hunger. “They were… immune to fear,” when

it came to fighting for a better life.

The rebels oppose the brutal “democracy” of the Chilean president. His regime takes men by force to serve in his military, imprisons his opponents, manipulates elections, and shuts down the media. The aristocrats just want to keep the “iron grip” they have on the country without interference.

Emilia uses her biological father’s name, del Valle, because it is well-known in Chile. She tries to find her father as promised and approaches her aristocratic, grandmother. Pauline del Valle. Eventually Emilia finds her father in hiding, more from paranoia than danger.

Gonzolo Andres de Valle sobs that he has changed and regrets seducing her mother.

Emilia thanks Rufina that has been caring for him for weeks. When Emilia mentions the caregiver, her father reveals his true self and says, “Who is Rufina?” He never bothered to learn her name.

Emilia’s strong and caring nature is shown as she reports on the war from the front lines. She becomes one of the canteen girls that bring water to the rebel soldiers. The government troops are not loyal to the president. “…The troops were ill-prepared, many wearing sandals or rags around their feet because they lacked proper boots….”

The rebels win but in the chaos that immediately follows the end of the war Emilia is arrested. As she sits in prison, beaten and repeatedly told she will be executed, Emilia is changed by seeing

and experiencing so much cruelty.

Her colleague, Eric Whelan, finally finds her in the prison and they realize their feelings for one another. She refuses to return home to California. Emilia decides that she needs to go to the distant piece of land that her father left her. “The horrors I had witnessed had left me sensitive to noise and tumult.”

At Emilia’s insistence, Eric does go home, but later finds the land where she tries to make her new home.

Isabel Allende’s familiarity with Chile certainly colors her descriptions and her characters ring true. The author’s strength lies in writing compelling adventure.

Rick Mercer had more than a few adventures of his own while he and his crew recorded episodes of the Mercer Report. For the 250 shows, his team travelled from coast to coast to coast many times over. The best of the program’s later years are compiled in the book Final Report.

Mercer’s rants cover topics from government actions to driver behaviour. He calls his native Newfoundland an island where people rant their opinion. However, he learned more directly from his godfather, Hugh Shea. “He could rant. I learned from the best.”

When Rick came out with funny remarks in grade six, his teacher told him to write them down, so he did.

Mercer credits his team for the success of the Mercer Report. “We have literally been to the top of mountains and the bottom of the sea together.”

The associate road producer, Michal Grajewski, set up Go-Pro cameras hanging off towering buildings. He arranged a camera on the tallest mast of the Bluenose

He does not like heights.

The road director, John Marshall, only took a half day off in the show’s fifteen years. He had an allergic reaction so severe that he was delirious. It was Hallowe’en and he almost told a lady with bountiful hair to take off her fright wig, if she was going to be in the shot.

Cameraman, Don Spence, worked while his broken ribs were healing. He continued carrying the forty-five pound camera on his shoulder and walking backwards while filming Rick’s rants. Don and Rick figured out that they had walked approximately forty-five kilometers in ‘Graffiti Alley’.

One time the Gentlemen of the Van, as they called themselves, booked a helicopter to take them to the top of a mountain. There were “fierce winds” and the helicopter had to make an emergency landing and leave the crew there before the winds became worse.

The four stranded souls were glad to see security officers arrive until they were told to leave the private property. They had landed in a mining operation.

Eventually one of the officers decided he knew of the TV show and they were transported back to civilization.

Jann Arden was supposed to accompany Rick and his colleagues on that adventure. Rick writes that he is grateful she had a scheduling conflict and was nice and safe on a stage somewhere.

Jann made guest appearances on the show that did not usually have guests. They were shooting an episode where Jann was going down the luge track at Olympic Park in Calgary. At the top of the track she looked at Rick, then at the camera and said, “Never go on a date that requires you to wear a helmet.”

Mercer commented on government issues such veterans’ rights at times. His rants were snapshots in time. In 2013 Afghanistan veterans generally received only a lump-sum payment rather than a life-long pension. Prime Minister Stephen Harper had stopped The Pension Act, which has never been fully restored for veterans.

Mercer states, “We sent them to Afghanistan, they came back broken… no pension for them.” He says that the motto “lest we forget”

is no longer valid since “we have forgotten.”

He takes a swipe at Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as well. Trudeau paid an official visit to India and wore Indian wedding attire. Mercer comments, “When the Prime Minister of Japan shows up in Canada, he doesn’t get off the plane wearing his Anne of Green Gables wig and his peasant dress.”

Mercer takes a poke at drivers and says he enjoys the first snowfall in Toronto with “… the sights and sounds of thirteen fender-benders in nine languages…. This is Canada. There’s no such thing as all-season tires, just like there’s no such things as all-season footwear.”

Through his series Mercer shows his pride in Canadian youth, veterans, Olympians/ Paralympians, inventions, and the stand Canada takes on many international issues. Rick Mercer is about all things Canadian. He wants school snow days to be featured on a stamp.

The public libraries are there for all to find a good book that takes them to another time and place away from the cold of winter, just for a while.

Tank up at Point Park Petrocan, but don’t forget our many other services!

Good food, including:

• U-Bake Lasagna, Fresh Pizza, & U-Bake Pizza from Vito’s

• Fresh subs made daily

• Hot dogs Tuesdays and Thursdays

• Even fresh-baked cookies

• Along with popular snacks and drinks

We also have available: air for your vehicle’s tires & an RV dumping station And, our friendly staff will even have a treat for your pup!

Point Park Petro-Canada Mark and Irene Knowles, Owners/Operators 506 Hillsborough Road, Riverview 506 387 7208

• Posters • Custom Calendars

• T-Shirt Transfers

• Stamps

Interactive Yoga Teaches Children Valuable Lessons

BY KRISTEN LAWSON

Trish LeClair has taught preschool for more than twenty years and ran her own childcare centre for eighteen. She incorporated kindermusik, an early childhood education music and movement program, into her classes.

“When it came time for me to finish, I decided to take my yoga teacher training. About ten years ago I was invited to some childcare centres to teach yoga for children.”

Trish explained that busy environments like childcare centres can be dysregulating for young children. Her sessions can help them feel grounded, with the help of visual aids and sounds to match their movements and spark their imaginations.

One summer, she and her daughter, Raven, took up water colouring. Raven painted landscapes while Trish invented fun characters.

She started using those paintings to engage her students and was inspired to create an entire imaginary world where each character had their own unique role and personality. From there, the world of Bobbleberry Hollow was born.

First Trish put together The Bobbleberry Hollow Interactive Guide. The guidebook introduces 21 characters, each with their own yoga pose, affirmation and emotion. With text on one page and an image on the next, teachers and families can use the

guide to engage kids in movement, storytelling and other creative activities.

Next came Meet the Friends of Bobbleberry Hollow, a full-colour picture book without text that is more accessible to young children.

Finally, there is the Spaces and Places Picture Storybook, which depicts places like the Lucky Fountain, where children can share their wish for that day aloud.

Trish uses the Bobbleberry characters to encourage her students to move by skipping and dancing and express themselves by singing and sharing.

Each class begins with the use of a magic potion to spark joy and awaken the senses. “Children rub orange essential oil onto their hands, then cup them over their noses

and inhale deeply.”

They then sit crosslegged and listen attentively, just like Ommie Bear. Practicing Ommie Bear’s pose and affirmation helps improve their sitting and listening skills.

Honey doodle, a bee who hums instead of buzzing, helps shy kids learn to be heard. Pancake the lazy hamster teaches them that they can rest even if it is not naptime.

“When it is time to relax for Shavasana [lying on one’s back breathing deeply], I ask the children to lay like a little Pancake.

I bring in a rain stick or some drums to tie it all together. They have an immersive experience.”

Trish self-published her books on Amazon and offers educator

resources online. She expressed her hope that other early childhood educators use the interactive guide in their own classes, to serve as inspiration for storytime, movement moments or calm corners.

She explained how families can also use Bobbleberry Hollow as inspiration to move, create and relax together.

“Practicing deep breaths with your child before bed triggers the sympathetic nervous system. Whatever has happened in their day, they are walking into a peaceful sleep.”

Shedding light on daylight

BY JEFF MELNYCHUK

If you feel as though the winter darkness has sapped your soul dry, you’re hardly alone, and this column is for you because it’s going to make your life brighter. Pun intended.

The darkest days of any year in the Northern Hemisphere are in December, of course, when on the Winter Solstice — Dec. 21, 2025 — the sun rose in Greater Moncton at 7:58 am and set at 4:33 p.m. The sun was above the horizon for just 8 hours and 38 minutes. For the other nearly 15-and-a-half hours — nearly two-thirds of a 24hour day — the sun was nowhere to be seen. Then the turnaround began. (Prepare for a bit of nerdy science.)

The Earth rotates on an axis — or tilt — of 23.5 degrees. At the Winter Solstice in December, the Earth is tilted away from the Sun at its maximum of 23.5 degrees, limiting daylight. At noon, the sun is just above treetops at 20.5 degrees of elevation.

After the Deep Dark

Days of December (the DDDDs) — a 10-day stretch where sunset was stuck at 4:33 p.m. — the daylight began to slowly gain. Just seconds per day to begin but the gains were accelerating. By the end of December, sunset was 4:53 p.m. and sunrise was stuck at 8:01 a.m. (it only began getting earlier on Jan. 7).

But this is the good part that makes your life literally and figuratively brighter.

The light gains, however small, were accelerating. At the beginning of January, just 52 seconds a day. By the end of the month, 2 minutes and 30 seconds a day, roughly split between sunrise and sunset, and increasing. Sunset on Jan. 30 was 5:22 p.m., a 49-minute gain compared with the DDDDs. By the end of February, we’ll be gaining 3 minutes and 12 seconds a day and sunset will be 6:03 p.m., a whopping 90-minute gain over the DDDDs. And it only gets better as we head toward the

time change just a few weeks away on March 8. On that day, sunset will be 7:15 p.m. and we’ll approach the maximum daily light gain as we approach the equinox, which is first day of spring. (More juicy detail on that for next time.)

At that point, the Earth will have traveled about one-quarter of a lap of the sun, relative to the Winter Solstice. Fast forward to the Summer Solstice in June and the Earth is on the opposite side of the Sun from December and tilted fully toward it at

23.5 degrees. That means a 47-degree swing in the Sun’s elevation between summer (67.5 degrees high in sky at solar noon) and winter (just 20.5 degrees). The tables have turned: The sun is above the horizon for 15plus hours. Sunrise will be at 5:28 a.m. and sunset will be at 9:14 p.m. Sunset stays that way for 10 glorious days as the Earth’s axis transitions between moving toward the Sun to moving away. The duration of pitch dark — without any sun glow on the horizon — is just 2 hours and 45 minutes.

Melnychuk, aside from clearly longing for the days of summer, was on a determined career path to astrophysics when he was bitten by the journalism bug in the early 1990s. He’s a former editor of the Times & Transcript in Moncton and is currently editor-and-chief at business magazine Automotive News Canada. His passion for the cosmos and making it relatable, however, continues.

At any other day in the year, our daylight is increasing or decreasing.

We are now increasing and noticeably so. March brings about even greater change.

A student's perspective

BY SOPHIE DUPLESSIS

With the presence of morality rapidly declining, not only within the general public but also within many individuals in power, a looming question blooms at the back of many minds: What becomes of society when morality is no longer considered a necessity?

Recently, many citizens have begun to fear what may occur if certain power systems refuse to change their harsh approaches to harmless situations. In an ideal world, this is never a concern. If the world were to change in any way as time progresses, morality should become the main priority

– especially within politics and government systems. When morality is truly considered when running a country, many – if not all –lives change for the better. These changes could lead to all individuals gaining the right of full bodily autonomy, the prison systems becoming more humane, safety

being heavily enforced, no family being left unfed or underpaid, and above all, every individual feeling welcome within their country and their society without the fear of being punished for their identity. If there is no place for morality within our politics, there is no place for anyone.

Linking Trails and Communities Through the Trail Town Initiative

The Trail Town concept of linking trails to urban amenities originated with The Progress Fund in 2007 in the United States, where it has blossomed into a national network.

The concept is to connect trails with urban centres of all sizes – villages, towns, and cities – so that those using a trail can stop for lunch, purchase supplies, visit local attractions, or access any other urban services that may be of interest.

The Trail Towns model serves tourism, economic development, and community development goals while enhancing the enjoyment of exercise and the outdoors.

The idea has been discussed in our readership area for as much as a decade and is back on the agenda.

The Southeast Regional Service Commission (SERSC), working with local municipalities and

with outreach to community groups, has been spearheading discussions across the region, with more to come.

The municipality of Fundy Albert hosted three public consultation sessions in January. Says Mayor Jim Campbell, “the Trail Town idea was discussed in Fundy Albert before it was Fundy Albert, with Marc Leger (Regional Trails Co-ordinator with SERSC) and Micha Fardy (Executive Director of Friends of Fundy) ten years ago.

“There was a public meeting at the Chocolate River Station that was well attended, but the project did not go on from there. Marc is now working on the Shoreline Trail (a project to develop a trail from Alma to Cap Pele, itself part of a larger initiative to connect all New Brunswick trails).

“Our recent meetings were well attended, there was a lot of interest, and

from the municipality’s point of view, we will do everything we can to support the Trail Town concept. We have one of the best trail systems for hiking, biking, ATVing, and snowmobiling.

We are going to work with the communities and not-for-profit organizations to promote the Trail Town concept.”

Campbell notes that the original idea did not incorporate trails that are dedicated to motorized vehicles. He notes that “the way our trails are in Fundy Albert, we could incorporate” snowmobile and ATV trails into the Trail Town concept “and have everyone work together.

“For example, ATVs have the right now to come into the village in Hillsborough to get gas and buy supplies.”

Says the SERSC’s Leger, “it has been on the radar from a tourism standpoint here in the Mari-

times for a number of years. It was championed originally by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA). It started to take hold, but with an idea like this it takes time to introduce the idea and marry it to the product that we have on the ground.

“I would not say that up until now a formal Trail Town took hold, but a lot of the principles and ideas and concepts have been put into practice and refined over quite a bit of time, mostly around the Dobson Trail, the Fundy Footpath, and Fundy National Park.

“We did implement a lot of the best practices, especially around the way the Town of Riverview works with the community, and how volunteer groups engage with communities and with government and with businesses. It takes a while for that stuff to take hold, but it has come into practice organically. Now

we are at the stage where we can formalize this a bit more.”

With reference to the Shoreline Trail initiative, Leger says, “the trail that we’re developing is intended to connect directly to where people live and to where businesses exist, to have that local benefit … but also to make sure that visitors who are looking for a trail experience here are coming in and out of our communities and staying in our communities longer, and are hopefully patronizing our businesses and learning about our history along the way.

“Once people start to see success with that, to see foot traffic in front of businesses, people will see value in that, and it becomes a valuable place to put your business. There is an economic benefit that becomes a quality of life asset that helps keep people in our commun-

ities, which could make people want to move to our communities.”

All stakeholders emphasize that this rejuvenated version of the Trail Town discussion is in the early stages of what will be a long-term project. Says Fundy Albert mayor Campbell, “we are in the infancy of the project. We are trying to bring the stakeholders together and get the people working towards the goal of implementing Trail Towns.”

The next public consultation will take place in Riverview on February 18th at 7 p.m. at the Byron Dobson Arena.

Winter Carnivals Invite Everyone to Enjoy the Season

Salisbury, Riverview, and Fundy Albert will all celebrate winter with festivals in January and February –proving that there is lots to do in our winter season!

BY KRISTEN LAWSON

Salisbury

It can be tempting to stay in and hibernate during the dark, cold winter days, but WinterFest reminds us that there is always a reason to get out and celebrate.

Salisbury started WinterFest with the goal of raising the community’s winter spirits, and fostering family bonding, by hosting free activities for Family Day. It must have been a hit, because the 11th annual festival is taking place on February 14-16, with festivities spanning the entire long weekend.

WinterFest 2026 kicks off on Friday evening with an open skate at the outdoor rink, complete with music and hot chocolate.

On Saturday, the Swedish Lantern Walk takes place at Highland Park. A community favourite, the event was inspired by the Scandinavian tradition of lighting fires in 4-foot-tall cedar logs.

Director of Recreation & Wellness Massimo Caracristi said “Personally, I think this is the most unique thing that any municipality's got going on, especially this time of year. Not only is it unique, but it is beautiful.”

After taking in the more than 100 logs lighting up the Wetland Trail, visitors can join acoustic guitarist John Arsenault at the bonfire and sing along while enjoying hot

chocolate and s’mores.

The Family Day events take place on Sunday Feb 16 at Highland Park. Kids and their adults can look forward to sleigh rides, sledding, games, and a hot dog BBQ. Star Sixty-Nine will perform live at the amphitheatre, and local businesses will offer snow-cooled maple taffy, fresh-baked beavertails, and the opportunity to walk the trail with llamas.

Riverview

Winter Carnival is back for the 51st year in a row. Focused on family fun and outdoor adventures, the carnival aims to build community spirit by embracing the winter season.

“Let's get out,” says Communications Manager Heather Reinsborough. “It can be dark, but if you are out with your friends and family, it is going to make the winter brighter. If you go for a snowshoe in the woods, you are bound to come out feeling rejuvenated.”

The Riverview Winter Carnival began as a four-day event in 1975 and was run entirely by volunteers until 1989. It has tried several names, including Coconut Carnival, Wild Wacky Wonderland, and Winterlude, before returning to its original name in 2012.

Events have also evolved over the decades. Early editions featured float parades,

snowmobile races, and even a carnival Prince & Princess.

Community Recreation Coordinator Ash Arrowsmith particularly enjoys the Guided Snowshoes, explaining “It opens up the opportunity for people to build confidence to go outside in the middle of the winter.

Arrowsmith has been involved in the festival since 2009, and has overseen it for the past five years.

“We did one of my favourite events back in 2016. The whole community came together to build a giant ice castle. The kids loved it! It was really special seeing the community build it and enjoy it together. That is a really special memory for me.”

Another recent addition is the annual creation of an original snowshoe art piece on Mill Creek. Residents can gather at the lookout

to watch the massive artwork come into being before disappearing under the next snowfall.

The carnival has been going on for so long that businesses earmark the dates to plan special offers and events. The Holy Whale Brewery is hosting a comedy festival and two major concerts for this year’s festival weekends.

Reinsborough shared what she has been looking forward to, “My New Year's resolution was to do mindful spending. I will be going thrifting at Dayzee's, and I have my eye on Lucky Rabbit ceramics.”

Winter Carnival kicked off with Ignite on January 30th. Revelers danced, skated and sledged while enjoying maple candy, bannock, and s’mores. An estimated one hundred

or more Riverview residents took the Hot Chocolate Express Bus to Winter Wonderland Park to enjoy the celebrations.

The free shuttle was introduced last year to make the carnival more sustainable and accessible. If the chance to skip the traffic is not enough incentive, riders can also bring mugs for free hot chocolate.

Several events added for the 50th anniversary

are returning this year. The Skate Glow Party, which hit capacity in 2025, is back with a neon outer space theme and two time slots to accommodate everyone who wants to attend.

Up to 100 competitors are expected for the 2nd Annual Fat & Flurious Fat Bike Race on Feb 8. Racers choose between beginner, intermediate and advanced distance options. Those who want to take it slow can

collect poker cards at checkpoints along the way, with a cash prize for the best hand at the finish line.

More indoor and accessible activities have been added to ensure that everyone can participate. Think yoga, open swims, card games, and painting workshops.

Whatever the activity, getting out of the house and spending time with friends and family is

always a good idea!

Fundy Albert

In Fundy Albert, Friends of Fundy serves as the organizer for February Frolic, which takes place this year from February 11th to the 16th.

Friends of Fundy Executive Director Micha Fardy says, “we do not really regard it as ‘our’ festival. We look at it as an opportunity to work with our part -

ners. That includes local businesses, and also the municipality and nonprofit organizations, to encourage people to get out and connect in the wintertime.

“We have been fortunate this year to work with our partners to expand on many of our events. We see this is a chance for the community to have opportunities to collaborate, try new things, and send great messages.”

She emphasizes that organizers wish to “treat Route 114 as our Main Street, to ensure that all of Fundy Albert is represented and to celebrate what community members and organizations are doing.”

Activities will range from backyard bird counts to skating, tobogganing, and snowshoeing, a book swap with author readings, nature art workshops, music, events hosted by local businesses (such as ‘A Celebration of the Fire Horse’ at Broadleaf Farms), along with many more.

“We partnered for the bird counts this year with Sussex and Fundy St. Martins, so there will be bird counts there as well as in Fundy Albert. And, of course, all our counts go to Birds Canada.”

The Fundy Albert, Salisbury, and Riverview schedules can be found on their Facebook pages.

For Richard and Marie Smith, hosting young people comes naturally

For Wildcats billet

hosts Richard and Marie Smith, welcoming young people into their home is just par for the course.

When their own daughter was in Grade Ten, “they were talking about exchange students needing to be billeted, and we had a spare room, so we ended up hosting kids from China, from Germany, France, Sweden,

Denmark, really from across Europe.

“These kids came from families who thought that, before they went to university, it would be valuable for the students to improve their English skills. So, we were really used to having exchange students. Our daughter is an only child and she wanted a sister. She has sisters all over the world now!

“You of course have to provide a safe environment for the students and the billets. You provide their own bedroom for privacy, for example. So, we were already familiar with those requirements when we first hosted Wildcats players.”

Marie notes that when they built their home in Riverview, they included an in-law suite for Richard’s mother. That

space has come to serve as a den and adds space and amenities for billeting players as well.

After their daughter moved out on her own, the Smiths say they “looked at each other and said, ‘we have a lot of room, and we are only 1.8 kilometres from the Avenir Centre, maybe we could reach out to the Wildcats.’”

Arrangements were quickly made, and the Smiths have been hosting players since 2024 – four so far. “Honestly, it has been easy and familiar for us.”

The Smiths praise

the Wildcats organization’s care with matching billet families and players. Says Richard, “I have to compliment the Wildcats. The way they select not just for the hockey talent, but for the manners and the characteristics of the players. When the players walk in the house, it feels like they are mature beyond their years.

“The Wildcats do a great job. The players who have stayed with us are appreciative and great young gentlemen. And, they have to stick to a strict schedule and are very mature about that.”

This season, Victor Morrissette-Richer billeted with the Smiths during his time with the team (Morrissette-Richer has since moved on to the Langley Rivermen in the British Columbia Hockey League). While they are not hosting a player at the moment, the Smiths keep the option open for the future. “It is a great experience. After a game, a player will talk about how they think the game went, how they think they played. You also meet other billet parents, and it becomes a complete experience.”

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Visitors Enjoy Local Art at the Library

BY KRISTEN LAWSON

The Riverview Arts Council's Featured Artists Program allows visual artists of all levels of experience to display their work at the Riverview Library.

The Town of Riverview reached out to the RAC hoping to solve a problem; the library’s walls were used occasionally to display installations for children’s events or the Summer Art Exhibit but

remained bare for the rest of the year.

For the past three years the Arts Council has been filling that space with original work by local artists.

Any RAC member interested in exhibiting at the library is eligible, as long as they have finished work that fits the space. Each month, one featured artist and 5-10 other names are drawn randomly from a hat.

“Every artist has a different story. Some folks have never exhibited their work, so they get to showcase it for the first time. Some folks have been doing art for years and years and years, and it gives us an opportunity to celebrate them.”

explained RAC President Joan Dimock

The featured artist provides a biography and 3-6 pieces (depending on

size) to display on the featured artist wall. Another 10 works from various artists are hung in the entryway.

Library patrons have come to recognize the artists and are often seen lost in thought while browsing the artwork.

Anecdotally, Town employees make a point of visiting the library after they have noticed that the walls are bare, because

they know new work is coming soon.

The February featured artist, Rachel Langdo, is an emerging painter. By contrast, October’s featured artist, Dorice Richard, has been exhibiting her work for decades.

“Artwork can connect with individuals in a personal way, whether invoking a feeling, a reminder of people or places, or appreciation

of technique,” wrote RAC Library Exhibition Lead Holly Trevelyan.

She cited Richard’s pen and ink renditions of buildings in the Moncton area as an example:

“Many patrons [will stand] in front of them for some time, either trying to figure out how she was able to draw them so precisely or simply lost in memories of times gone by.”

Library Notes

Blind Date with a Book

Take a chance on a book you know almost nothing about—wrapped, mysterious, and waiting to be discovered.

February 10 – 14

Winter Games Olympic Lounge

Come experience the thrill of the Olympics on the big screen at the library. Snacks provided!

February 6 at 3 pm: Opening Ceremonies

February 10 at 3:10 pm: Women’s Hockey Canada vs USA

February 14 time TBD: Women’s Hockey Quarterfinal

February 19 at 2:10 pm: Women’s Hockey Gold Medal Game

February 20 at 3:15 pm: Short Track Speed Skating

February 21 at 2:30 pm: Freestyle Skiing Women’s Halfpipe

Romantic Reads Book Club

Spots are available in the Romantic Reads Book Club. Pick up this month’s book at the library and join the fun. Every 4th Thursday of the month at 6:30 pm.

Next meeting: February 26 at 6:30 pm

Comprehensive Assessments, Professional Care

CHOOSE CANADIAN

By John Wishart

GGroundhog Day falls on Feb. 2, the day several furry prognosticators tell us whether we will have six more weeks of winter.

Newly-returned U.S. President Donald Trump beat Shubenacadie Sam and others by a day this year, ushering in many weeks – perhaps months – of economic winter with his decision to impose 25 per cent tariffs on all Canadian imports.

As kind and friendly Canadians, we have every right to question why Trump has decided to take aim at his closest neighbour, friend, and ally within days of taking office. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has already announced countervailing tariffs, and we are in for a difficult economic period.

provincial governments, and representatives from the biggest New Brunswick exporters to the U.S., in negotiations with the new U.S. administration.

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For those of us who reside and make our living along the banks of the Petitcodiac, we might wonder what we can do to help our families, communities, and businesses through the darkest days of this economic winter. We should support the efforts of the federal and

residents of Southeast New Brunswick can do our part to show support for Canadian companies, and rob the Trump administration of its befuddling intentions, is to support and buy local. When we are faced with a choice of similar products or services – one made in the U.S., and another made in Canada –choose Canadian. If the trade war continues into the summer, the expected lower Canadian dollar may entice more Americans to visit our region, so there could be a golden lining to this situation for our hotels, parks, and the

tourism sector.

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In the meantime, think of supporting locally made products like frozen food, seafood, agricultural products (buy local apples instead of Florida oranges), maple syrup, molasses, chocolates, or arts and crafts. It’s a little thing all of us can contribute to Team Canada’s gameplan. It’s also much more hopeful than joining Shubenacadie Sam down his burrow to wait for economic winter to blow over.

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WHY WORKING OUT WITH A BUDDY

Starting an exercise routine is one thing.

Sticking with it is another. While motivation often gets the spotlight, consistency is what truly creates change, and for many people, having a workout buddy can make all the difference.

Exercising with someone else adds a layer of accountability that is hard to replicate on your own. When you know someone is expecting you to show up, it becomes easier to follow through, even on days when motivation is low. You are no longer just making a promise to yourself; you’re keeping a commitment to someone else. That simple shift can be powerful.

Lasting change still has to come from within. You need to want better health, more energy, or greater strength for yourself. But building the habit, especially in the early stages, can feel far less daunting when you are not doing it alone. A friend walking the same path, lifting the same weights, or learning the same movements can make the process feel more manageable and even enjoyable.

There is also something comforting about sharing a health journey with someone who understands it firsthand. A workout friend can celebrate your wins, normalize your struggles, and remind you that setbacks are part of the process. That kind of support can reduce feelings of discouragement and help you stay the course.

When that support comes from a spouse

or partner, the benefits often extend beyond the gym. If both people are prioritizing their health, it can positively influence routines at home with meals, sleep, stress levels, and create a ripple effect that benefits the whole household. In that sense, it truly becomes a win for everyone.

Of course, not everyone has a built-in support system at home or among friends. In those cases, joining a fitness facility can be a great option. Group classes or small group training naturally create opportunities to connect with others who are working toward similar goals. Simply being open to conversation can lead to friendships that last far beyond the workout itself.

Even informal routines

can foster connection.

Showing up at the same time and on the same days; whether at a walking track, a neighborhood trail, or a local park often leads to familiar faces and casual encouragement. Many communities also organize group activities like walking clubs, snowshoeing outings, or seasonal fitness programs, making it easier to find support close to home.

In the end, fitness does not have to be a solo journey. Sometimes, the simple act of moving alongside someone else is what turns intention into a lasting habit.

Julie Solbak, BscKin, CKA Owner, Just Fit Fitness Center and Just Move Health Studio

* May not be combined with any other offer or coupon. Valid until February 28, 2026 at our Riverview location

Your Albert–Riverview Constituency Office Is Here to Help

Life in our community is busy, and sometimes dealing with provincial services can feel overwhelming. That’s why your constituency office is here - to make things a little easier.

Maybe you’re trying to sort out a healthcare issue, figure out a program you qualify for, or get answers about something happening in your neighbourhood. Maybe you just want to share a concern or an idea. Whatever it is, you don’t have to navigate it on your own.

We hear from people every day about the things that matter to them - from cost-of-living pressures to local services and everything in between. Those conversations help guide the work being done on your behalf, and they make a real difference.

If you need a hand, have a question, or just want to talk something through, reach out anytime.

Your constituency office is here to help.

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