This Issue...

Volume 1 Issue 1
September 2004 Features
Publisher
Ian Ross

Features Writer Edible and Medicinal Plants.................... 5

Dan Benoit

Sales & Design

Ian Ross

Contributors
Christine Davison Forward to School........................... 16
Yeji Kim
Dr. Elizabeth Hale
Stephen MacKnight
Clay Merrithew
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COVER STORY
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reserves the right to republish, in print or electronically,

Last of the Avengers................. 18

any material we accept for publication. The views or opin-
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those of the publisher.

©Copyright 2004
Fareasterner
The advertiser agrees that Fareasterner shall not be held
liable for damages arising from errors in advertisements
beyond the amount paid for the advertisement, or their por-
tion of the advertisement, in which the error occurred: There
shall be no liability for non insertion of any advertisement Introduction................................................................4
beyond the amount of such advertisement. The publisher
reserves the right to edit, revise, classify or reject any adver- MUSIC: George Paul.................................................................9
tisements.
Harmony Twins.........................................................10
Back to School Safety Tips......................................................11
RECIPES........................................................................12
A Basic Toolkit...................................................................14
BUSINESS: Young Professionals.......................................15
PETS: Flea Season..........................................................21
ASTROLOGY.................................................................22

3
 From the Publisher
Welcome to the premier issue of Miramichi Monthly, a
new magazine covering the lifestyles, pastimes, and heritage
of our city. Each month, we will arrive at your doorstep and do
our best to entertain you and inform.
Miramichi Monthly is published by Fareasterner, an inde-
pendent and locally-owned company, here in Miramichi.
For the month of September, writer Dan Benoit takes us into
the forest for a second look at some common plants. Then,
taking to the air, he brings us a story on the last operational
Avenger torpedo bombers flying in the world... and they’re lo-
cated right here in Miramichi!
Music columnist Stephen MacKnight presents us with a look Dan Benoit, Features Writer
Ian Ross, Publisher at George Paul’s new CD, while veterinarian Dr. Elizabeth (Yeji Kim photos)
Hale offers some helpful advice for your pets as we approach
September’s flea season. Astrologer Christine Davison shows us what lies ahead in the stars Dan Benoit is a freelance
and, with the fall harvest underway, our recipes section looks at apples and preserves. We also writer and journalist from
ask the question: could Miramichi support a university? Miramichi. He is a graduate
Lastly, we’d like to thank all of our contributors and advertisers, who have made this possible of Holland College on Prince
and helped us to make Miramichi Monthly a free publication for Miramichiers. Edward Island. His work has
been published throughout the
See you in October,
Atlantic provinces.

4
Edible and
Medicinal Plants
By Dan Benoit

The edible and medicinal plants available just under your nose might sur-
prise you. Of the 300,000 or so wild plants on our planet, more than 120,000
of them are edible.
Because of this vast variety, learning to identify and use wild plants as a
source of food and medicine can be an interesting and useful pastime.
Warning: Some wild plants have toxic parts or are toxic until prepared properly. Some
people may have serious allergic reactions to some wild plants. Before you eat any wild
plant make sure of its identity and that it has been properly prepared.

Take the common dandelion for exam- as a cooked veg-

ple. Though it’s become a scourge of mod-
ern gardeners, the humble dandelion has
been an extremely useful plant for centu-
ries.
The French named the plant dent-de-lion,
or lion’s tooth, because of its tooth-shaped
leaves.
First introduced to North America from
Europe by the first pioneers as a source of
food, dandelions now grow virtually
worldwide. The plant spreads further, is
harder to kill and grows in harsher climates
than most of its competitors.
Tasting similar to chicory and endive, the
leaves are extremely nutritious and con-
tain vitamins B-1, B-2, B-5, B-6, B-12, C,
E, P, and D, as well as biotin, potassium,
phosphorus, magnesium, and zinc. They
contain more beta-carotene than carrots
and more iron and calcium than spinach.
A dinner fork, used to dig around the root
system, is the only tool you’ll need to
gather them. Collect dandelion leaves in
early spring before the flowers appear.
Harvest them again in late fall. Dandeli-
ons growing in rich, moist soil, with broad
leaves and large roots are the best.
Dandelion leaves can be sautéed, steamed
or eaten raw in a salad. Most of the bitter-
ness can be removed from the leaves by
boiling them in two changes of water.
The root is edible year-round, but is best
from late fall to early spring. It can be used
etable, especially
in soups.
A close relative
of chicory, dande-
lion root also
makes an excellent coffee substitute. Af-
ter gathering, clean the roots and dry them
out. Roast them in an oven and grind them
up and you’re good to go for a refreshing
cup of Joe.
Dandelion root is also one of the safest
and most popular herbal remedies around.
It’s good for ailments of the stomach, in-
testines, pancreas, bladder, and spleen and
is even recommended to combat stress. Yet
despite all the uses the dandelion has, it is
widely considered to be a pest. More than
$50,000,000 was spent in Canada last year
to kill it off.
Dandelion Tea
Ingredients:
six dandelion leaves
boiling water
one teaspoon honey (optional)
Method:
Remove the leaves from the stems and
tear them into strips. Place in the bottom
of a mug, pour on enough boiling water
to fill the mug and leave to stand for 5-
10 minutes. Strain and drink. For a
sweeter brew, add 1 teaspoon of honey.
Continued p.8

5
 Edible and Medicinal Plants

Learning in the Field

By Clay Merrithew
Yggdrasil Forest Products hosted its fifth annual field day July 10.
A Russellville-based forestry company, Yggdrasil has promoted a greater knowl-
edge of the Miramichi environment over the past five years with examinations
of such topics as the geology of eastern New Brunswick, beneficial and harmful
insects and the relationship between flowering plants and trees. The field days
have been open and free in accordance with the company’s philosophy of global
awareness.
This year’s theme was edible and medicinal plants. The field days have be-
come increasingly popular with 42 attendees this year, up from 16 the previous
year.
The field day kicked off at French Fort Cove under threatening skies but only
light intermittent showers were experienced throughout the day. The afternoon
sessions were held on the Yggdrasil property in Russellville. Presenters included
Dave McLeod, one of New Brunswick’s leading naturalists, Jim Saunders, local
forester and naturalist, Gary Mahoney, an expert on the medicinal uses of plants
and Clay Merrithew, naturalist. All presenters are residents of the Miramichi
area.
Attendees were exposed to a number of plants from the ubiquitous dandelion
to the rare and exquisite cucumber root. The edible and medicinal properties of
all the plants were explained in detail. Poisonous and noxious plants such as
poison ivy and deadly nightshade were also shown. Over forty plants were pre-
sented throughout the day. Most participants were amazed by the diversity and
usefulness of many common plants.
Lunch and supper were catered by the Goodie Shop Restaurant, the latter be-
ing a woodland barbecue. Five-year pins were presented to Dave McLeod, Jim
Saunders, Eddie and Cheryl Bourque and William Cormier.

Clay Merrithew shows local flora to field trip goers. (Dan Benoit Photo)

6
 Most people learn about stinging nettle
Easily identified by their furry, cigar-
the hard way, usually by walking into a
shaped heads sitting on long stalks,
patch of them. Nettles are covered with
cattails can be found in the spring and
hairs that produce an intense, stinging pain
summer in or alongside the water of
when touched. But few people know they
marshes, ponds and ditches. They can
make an excellent cooked vegetable.
grow up to 15 feet tall and have stiff pale-
Nettles usually appear in the same places
green leaves.
year after year. Look for them in moist
Harvest cattails when the ground is dry.
woodlands, along rivers, and partially
The roots can be used in salads, bread
shaded trails.
making, soups, pickles, jellies and stir- Cattails Blueberries
Collect nettle leaves before they flower
fries. The young roots have a sweet taste
Blueberries are another common wild in spring. They may be bad for the kid-
and are high in starch. Grate and boil
food. Everyone knows they can be used neys after they flower, the website said.
them to draw out the starch for cooking.
to make everything from jellies to cakes New nettles come up in the fall, and you
The shoots are edible as well. Select
to pies. But few people know their hid- can pick them before they’re killed by
large shoots that have no flowers. Sepa-
den health secrets. frost.
rate the outer leaves from the core until
For instance, a tea made from wild Collect them using work gloves, and
you reach the soft inner core of the plant.
blueberry leaves are a proven treatment wear a long-sleeved shirt. The young
A few late-spring stalks can deliver
for diabetes, said biologist Dave leaves are said to be the best part of the
enough food for a decent meal provid-
MacLeod. plant.
ing beta-carotene, niacin, riboflavin,
The tea is easy to prepare. Gather four Clean and chop nettles wearing rubber
thiamine, potassium, phosphorus, and
tablespoons of wild blueberry leaves gloves. Once you’ve cooked them a lit-
vitamin C.
picked before the berries are ripe and tle, the stingers are deactivated, and the
When the male flowers ripen in late
four litres of water. Boil both together plant becomes edible.
spring, they produce gold coloured pol-
until the water is reduced to one litre. The plant has very high levels of miner-
len rich in minerals, protein, and energy.
Drink the remaining water three times als, especially, calcium, magnesium, iron,
This can be gathered and used as flour
daily, MacLeod said. potassium, phosphorous, manganese,
in baking breads, muffins, pancakes.
silica, iodine, silicon, sodium, and sulphur.
Since it is time-consuming to collect in
They’re also a good source of vitamin C,
quantity, mix it with at least three times
beta-carotene, and B complex vitamins.
as much whole-grain flour. You can also
Nettles are also high in amino acids.
eat the pollen raw or as a topping.
They’re ten per cent protein, more than
The plant also has medicinal uses. First
any other vegetable.
Nations people used the jelly from be-
Native Americans used them for embroi-
tween the young leaves as a salve to treat
dery, fishnets, and other crafts. You can
wounds, sores, swelling and to soothe
even extract a yellow die from the roots.
pain. Stinging Nettle Other uses include treating gout, glan-
As well, the smoke from burning the
Sources: www.botanical.com dular diseases, poor circulation, enlarged
brown flower head with its pollen re-
www.wildmanstevebrill.com spleen, diarrhea, worms, intestinal and
moved can be used as insect repellent.
Illustrations by Ian Ross colon disorders and hemorrhoids.

8
 Music
by Stephen MacKnight
Standing with one foot on either
side of a fence can be a difficult
chore. This is true in politics and re-
ligion but nowhere is it more trouble-
some than in the arts. George Paul
effortlessly straddles two worlds and
has enriched both with his music.
Born in Red Bank, Mr. Paul re-
members that music was always
around as he was growing up. He
sang in the school choir and was
heavily influenced by the music of
the sixties but never lost touch with
the sound of his culture. He played
percussion and learned chants, even-
tually mastering the ability to create
songs and chants out of the melodies
in his head. The melody comes first,
he explains. The job then is to fit lyr-
ics to it, often a long term process. It
was in 1991 that Mr. Paul went to
P.E.I. and recorded “Traditional
Mik’Maq Chants”; it was a learning
experience but he was ready to in-
corporate his own musical ideas into
his craft.
Thus began the steep learning
curve any artist faces when trying to
master the business side of things.
Walking That Fine Line
Mr. Paul went to ACOA and they
helped put him in touch with vari-
ous agencies that provide art grants.
These grants have helped greatly to
defray the costs involved with re-
maining an independent recording
artist.
In 1998 George went to Beresford
and laid down the tracks for “Red
Ochre”, the album that really began
to get him noticed. “Ochre” con-
tained original songs that showed a
great respect for his traditions, and
it has been the template for his ca-
reer ever since. By steadfastly stay-
ing on both sides of the cultural fence
George combines historical and con-
temporary ideas that teach and en-
tertain. North American popular cul-
ture is a steamroller and the only way,
he feels, to survive is to bring the
Mik’Maq ethic into the mainstream.
Today’s youth are losing the lan-
guage and that is always the ominous
first step in losing the rest of a cul-
tural identity. George feels the need
to “preserve our culture while we’re
bombarded with continuous
change”.
The language can not only be pre-
served but strengthened when it is
set in this context. He feels optimism
because of the recent changes in rec-
ognizing traditional categories in
music awards, both the Junos and the
Grammys have made great strides in
nominating those who toil on the
fringes, and sometimes those edges
manage to capture the imagination
of the mainstream.
“Spirit of Dreams” followed at the
George Paul
end of 2003 and it was recorded at
the Packing Shed in Chatham. Once
again, mixing old and new, it solidi-
fied George as someone who was not
going to leave the public eye or ear.
Aboriginal artists who have made a
dent in the mainstream are few and
far between but George looked up
particularly to Kashtin for their in-
spiring ability to mix languages so
well. A great song or sound will cross
boundaries and make itself felt.
George’s songs are being felt in other
ways as well; a school board outside
Fredericton purchased many of his
cd’s to use in its native studies
classes.
The best is still ahead for George.
He has just returned from playing in
Halifax at the Tall Ships festival. He
performed on the deck of the
“Caledonia” in front of the thousands
of people at the event and while he
regrets being a kind of tourist attrac-
tion he felt great pride in represent-
ing his people in such a huge forum.
To share the “beauty of our culture”
and show the “Mik’Maq striving to
be side by side and not underfoot” is
his ultimate goal.
“Ancient Sounds Emerging” is the
title of his forthcoming album ex-
pected by October and once again it
will feature new and traditional
chants with a touch of modern
sounds underneath. George Paul’s
albums can be found at Saltwater
Sounds and R.O.W. Supporting our
artists is vital to the health of this
region’s music scene.
9
 Two-step
By Dan Benoit
A pair of twin sisters are glad they found
their harmony again. Mary Stewart and
her twin sister Martha Howe released their
first CD in May.
Now known to local fans as the Har-
mony Twins, the duo made their musical
debut singing old country and gospel as
children.
“We started out singing when we were
nine years old, singing with Dad in
church,” Stewart said, “singing in church
rallies.”
But as the sisters grew up, the singing
stopped.
That was until they started going to the
Miramichi Country Music Opry, operated
by Bill Mullin, about a year ago.
“The atmosphere up there at Billy
Mullin’s is just wonderful,” she said.
“The owners are exceptionally wonder-
10
ful people. We’re all just like a big family
there.”
Martha started going to the club first but
it wasn’t long before the pair was singing
together, she said.
“It’s sort of new in the last year for us
to be performing together again.”
Mullin really appreciates the pair’s tal-
ent.
“They’re good singers. They’ve got
great personalities and the people like
them.
“They’ve been a great asset,” he said.
The pair got their stage name from Ron The Harmony Twins
Gaston, another local performer, Stewart nights in March. The CD launch was held
said. at the Mullin’s club in May. They’ve since
“He used to say we played beautifully. sold out their first run. It’s been a real help
‘I think we’re going to call them the Har- in getting their name around.
mony Twins,’” he said to a packed house “Since the CD we’ve been singing at a
one night. The name stuck. lot of benefits.”
After several people asked the newly Their music has also aired on Bill
formed duo where they could purchase a Mullin’s Gospel Show and Home Brew,
CD, the sisters decided it was time to two programs on 99.3 The River. There’s
make one. even talk of a Christmas album, she said.
“We were inspired to do it.” The pair will play at a gospel in
They recorded the album over three Doaktown Oct. 29.
 TIPS for Children
ALWAYS walk and play in pairs or groups.
WHEN going to school go directly there and
do not stop along the way.
NEVER go with anyone unless they can give you
the “secret code” or “password.”
NEVER hitchhike.
ALWAYS be sure your parents/caregiver knows
where you are.
USE the same route every day.
ALWAYS ask for your parents’/caregiver’s per-
mission before going to a friend’s home after
school.
NEVER ride home with anyone unless you have
your parents’/caregiver’s permission first.

TIPS for Parents

TAKE primary age children on a walking tour of their route to and from
school. Point out Block Parent® homes, other safe places and danger-
ous places along the way.
NEVER put your child’s name on the outside of their coats, hats,
backpacks, etc., as it makes it easier for someone to gain their trust by
calling them by their name.
MAKE sure your child knows their name, address and telephone
number, including area code.
MAKE sure your child knows how to use a pay phone in an emer-
gency.
ALWAYS keep an updated list of names, addresses and phone num-
bers of your child’s friends.
POST emergency numbers by the phone.
KNOW your child’s whereabouts at all times.
CHECK with your school to make sure they have a “Safe Arrival pro-
gram” or “absentee check.”
BE familiar with your child’s friends and daily activities.
REINFORCE with your child that strangers can drive any type of vehi-
cle, can be male or female, young or old, short or tall, or can look
shabby or be well-dressed.
CONSIDER using a “secret code” or “password” should someone
other than you pick-up your child .
MAKE the school aware of any food allergies your child may have. It
may be wise to have your child wear a Medic Alert bracelet.
CHECK with your school to see if they have the “walking school bus”
program.
CHECK with your school to see what other community initiatives they
have.
REINFORCE these safety tips by playing “what if...?” games with your
child.

The New Brunswick Block Parent Association seeks a coordinator

for the Miramichi area. For information, call 1-800-665-4900.

Back to School Safety Tips provided by N.B. Block Parent Association

11
Freezer Cucumber Pickles Chow Chow
30 medium green tomatoes (seven and a half
Seven cucumbers, peeled with the seeds removed. pounds).
Cut cucumbers into chunks (about eight cups). ¾ cup of coarse salt.
Add 1½ cups of chopped onions. ½ medium cabbage (three cups minced).
Sprinkle with two tbsp. coarse salt and let stand Three medium onions (chopped).
one hour. Drain and rinse. Six-and-a-half cups of vinegar.
Mix together: Two-and-a-half cups of sugar.
One cup of vinegar. One tbsp. of celery seed.
Two cups of white sugar. One tbsp. mustard seed.
One tsp. of mustard seed. ½ tbsp. of whole cloves.
One tsp. of celery seed. Chop tomatoes. Combine with salt and let stand
Put cucumbers and onions into containers. Divide overnight. Drain and add cabbage and onions. Mix
the juice and fill up containers to one inch from vegetables together and add vinegar, sugar and
the top. spices tied loosely in a cheesecloth bag. Cook
Freeze. uncovered over low heat until vegetables are
tender, about 30 minutes. Pour into hot sterilized
jars and seal.
Yields about 12 cups.

12
 September’s Specials: Thanks to Pat Wilson of Black River Bridge for contribut-
ing her recipes for Apple Juice, A Different Apple Pie, The

Apples and Preserves Best Ever Apple Crisp and Freezer Cucumber Pickles.
Thank you as well to June Ross for her Chow Chow recipe.

A Different Apple Pie The Best Ever Apple Crisp

Butter a nine-inch pie plate. Apple mixture:
Peel, core and thinly slice five apples. Five cups peeled, cored and sliced apples.
Put apples into pie plate. ¼ cup of flour.
Sprinkle with ¼ cup sugar and 1 tsp. cinnamon. Three tbsp. of sugar.
In a bowl combine two tbsp. of butter and ½ cup of One tsp. of cinnamon.
sugar.
Mix in one egg. Crumble topping:
Add ½ cup flour. ½ cup of melted butter,
One tsp. of baking powder. ¾ cup of packed brown sugar.
Stir until smooth. ½ cup of flour.
Drop batter by spoonfuls over apples. One cup of rolled oats.
Bake at 350 degrees F for 45 minutes or until
apples are soft and topping is cooked. In a medium-size bowl, mix together the apples,
flour, sugar and cinnamon and place in an 8x8
baking pan.
Using the same bowl, mix together the brown
sugar, flour, rolled oats and melted butter. Sprinkle
the mixture over the fruit, forcing a little down the
cracks between the slices of fruit. Pat down gently.
Bake at 350 degrees F for 35 minutes or until the
Apple Juice apples are tender and the topping is slightly
Cut apples in halves and quarters. Place in con- browned and crisp.
tainer and cover with boiling water. Let stand 24
hours and pour off the juice. Add ¼ cup of sugar to
four cups of juice. Bring to a boil and put into jars.

13

Making
a variety of projects.
Basic
Toolkit
by Dan Benoit
Most people, even those who think of themselves as all
thumbs, probably have a few tools around the house that they’ve
gathered for a quick fix here and there. A basic understanding
of how to use them is all you will need to tackle everyday projects
around the home.
If you’re going to use tools and want to find them when you
need them, you’re going to need a toolbox. How much time
have you wasted on a project trying to find a screwdriver or a
hammer in a drawer or under the kitchen sink? A good quality,
lightweight plastic toolbox keeps all your tools in one easy to
find place and makes transporting them a breeze.
Ed O’Donnell, the hardware manager at the local Canadian
Tire, was kind enough to send me a list of tools he thought would
be needed for a helpful basic toolbox. “Buy the best tools you
can afford,” O’Donnell said. You’ll save money in the long run.
14
Start with the toolbox itself. A sturdy plastic one with a re-
movable tray will work fine.
A good 16-ounce claw hammer will come in handy for a
A pair of slip-joint pliers are great for giving you extra grip-
ping power. Add to the box a screwdriver with assorted bits.
Make sure the handle is comfortable before you buy. Also get a
16-foot retractable measuring tape, with a lock to hold the tape
in place.
A medium-size adjustable wrench will come in handy when
you loosen bolts.
A crosscut handsaw works well for a variety of woodwork-
ing projects, a hacksaw is indispensable for cutting metal and a
flashlight could turn out to be a lifesaver during power failures.
A breakaway utility knife with snap off ends will be a neces-
sity on various projects.
All-purpose glue, masking and electrical tape, string, a file,
nails and screws in assorted sizes, thumb tacks, picture hang-
ers in assorted sizes, and a small level round out the toolbox.
These tools can be purchased as a ready-made kit, which tends
to be more expensive and will perhaps contain more items than
you will need, O’Donnell said. Items purchased separately give
you more flexibility, control over cost, type, quality and the sat-
isfaction of personal selection making it your very own, he said.
A good-quality home-repair manual is a good resource to
have on hand as well. Be sure to pick up a good pair of safety
glasses, but be even surer to wear them.
 Business
Drawing Young
Professionals Together
By Ian Ross
When the Miramichi Prosperity
Task Force’s report and subsequent
economic package were announced
in April, candidates with a proven
history of success were targeted as
potential recipients. But for a number
of new entrepreneurs and commu-
nity-minded youth, it sounded as if
a lack of experience would limit
them from expressing their ideas, or
playing a role in how the city will
develop.
Nikki Hilton is one who is eager
to see this new crop of voices emerge
and bring them together to plan the
future of their city.
“We need to take an inventory of
the attitudes of young people in the
area, to find original ideas,” she says.
Hilton came to the Miramichi four
years ago, and now works as a char-
tered accountant for Fatkat Anima-
tion Studio. In that time, she has wit-
nessed the loss of long time family-
run stores and the coming of big box
stores. “Every place has a Walmart
but it’s the neat little shops that bring
people back.”
While she agrees that stores like
Walmart are necessary, Hilton hopes Nikki
for a trade off. To that end, she is Hilton
hoping that young businesspeople
will come together. calling out to any young, fresh-think-
“We need people to challenge the ing individuals who would like to
thinking that is already established,” network and share their ideas.
she states, pointing out that a united “We’re not just seeking business
voice can achieve greater attention. people either. We’d like to meet peo-
“The new faces of the economy,” ple like teachers, nurses, and others,
she describes, are trying things that as they have a lot to offer.”
are completely different. The first meet-and-greet is planned
“There are a lot of things around for September 15th, at 8 p.m., in the
that people want to run that are not Chatham Dooly’s. There will be food
big money-makers. But they not only and drink specials, and the evening
create business for themselves, they is set to be an informal gathering of
act as secondary businesses. A shop- positive ideas. All are welcome.
per may come to see the sales, then For more information, email:
stay to eat at one of the restaurants, nhilton@fatkatanimation.com
for example.”
This interrelation, she fears, is in
danger of being lost, as is the chance
for young people to start these busi-
nesses.
Getting together allows the oppor-
tunity to “see what people want,” she
says— be it city transit, access to
greater education, or beautifying the
downtowns— and for that purpose,
Hilton has begun organising a meet-
ing of young professionals. She is
15
 Ideas
Back Forward to School
The University of Miramichi?
By Ian Ross
September marks the back-to-school season. For most of our
university students it also represents the time they leave home.
Though there are several vocational schools here, a thriving com-
munity college, and even an option to attend some university classes,
the brass ring of a degree remains out of reach at home. Even stu-
dents attending the junior college will one day have to leave if they
wish to complete their studies. When one in five Canadians be-
tween the ages of 20 and 34 has completed a university education,
who can blame our young people for aspiring to the same?
Miramichi suffers from this loss of youth. We send our children
away at great financial cost and the social impact to our city is
immeasurable. What would it take to establish a full-fledged, de-
gree-granting institution here on the river? What would it achieve?
And…
Who would go?
Before getting into the mechanics of setting it up, we should tackle
the question of whether people would go to a University of
Miramichi. Many of our young people already attend the junior
college, but the lion’s share go away for schooling; having a uni-
versity here would not stop this. University is about getting out on
your own and moving away from parents but the benefit of having
a university here is that we could also be on the receiving end of
students. The New Brunswick Community College in Miramichi
provides a good indicator. According to Student Services, 50 per
cent of their students come from away.
Build it and they will come. Student enrollment in universities is
ever-increasing and the market for international students is set to
explode. Canadian universities are in line to prosper phenomenally.
Clockwise from top left: Jubilee Christian Centre (former St. Mary’s convent), vacant lot at
the corner of King George Hwy. and Newcastle Blvd., Newcastle Legion Hall, Newcastle
Courthouse, Memorial Field, the River Inn Annex, and the River Inn. (Ian Ross photos)
16
Canadian universities have a reputation on par with that of most
American schools, but are perceived as having less crime, often a
better exchange rate against international currencies, and fewer visa
restrictions than those of post 9/11 America.
Education is poised to become one of Canada’s leading com-
modities in the world.
How do we do it?
Recently, the province has changed the way university accredita-
tion is handled. The Degree-Granting Act allows for private insti-
tutions to offer degrees provided they pass an evaluation by the
Maritime Provinces Higher Education Commission. Unlike that in
the U.S., our system does not accredit entire universities, but handles
degree programs individually. This has allowed smaller schools,
such as Yorkville University and Lansbridge University to begin
offering Master of Business Administration programs, and then
expand, degree by degree, as their student body grows.
There’s just one hitch. Both Lansbridge and Yorkville are prima-
rily online universities although they plan expansions of physical
campus sites. If we wish to attract a student body in residence, we
need a real ‘brick and mortar’ campus—and one that’s marketable
as a dignified and refined institution.
Where do we build it?
Constructing new buildings would be both expensive and unnec-
essary. We have the makings of a campus staring us in the face. The
Newcastle courthouse lies ready to receive students with only slight
remodeling. Its two courtrooms would be ideally suited to become
lecture halls, and its historic exterior would offer a face for our
university. But the real beauty in this plan lies in the fact that roughly
half of the surrounding property is also currently up for sale.
Within walking distance of the courthouse, right next-door in fact,
lies the former St. Mary’s convent, now Jubilee Christian Centre.
It also is a historic building that is for sale and one that could be
easily converted into a student dormitory. Additionally, both build-
ings offer a great deal of space behind, which could be developed
into green spaces or university infrastructure.
Across the street, looking down the hill, is a bulldozed parking
lot, the River Inn and River Inn Annex, and the Newcastle Legion
Hall— all have been made available for sale. Not for sale but ac-
cessible for sporting events is Memorial Field behind Harkins
Middle School, a two-minute walk away.
In fact, so many properties are available in such close proximity
that the city is missing a great opportunity if they fail to develop a
strategy to encompass all of them.
How do we pay for it?
Establishing a university is an expensive proposition. To evalu-
ate each degree offered the price tag rests somewhere between
$25,000 and $50,000 depending on the intensity of the course.
The proper faculty must be attracted also. According to the Post
Secondary Affairs Branch of the Department of Education, any
course above first-year must be taught by a professor of PhD level.
An average prof’s salary can run from $50,000 from $80,000 a
year, depending on the field, but could be much higher for courses
where professionals routinely earn more, like Engineering for in-
stance. Furthermore, each degree program would require a half-
dozen or more instructors and just as many support staff.
A university must prove they offer a broad-based education, have
sufficient resources such as libraries and they must provide a greater
level of critical thinking and analytical skills than vocational schools,
who primarily teach what is only directly related to gaining em-
ployment in one’s field of study. The expectations on a hypotheti-
cal Miramichi University are great and all of these cost money.
This generates a significant dilemma. Private universities are
expensive. Without some form of subsidy, tuitions could reach
$20,000 a year, making the whole situation impractical. In public
universities, to contrast, tuition only accounts for between 25 and
30 per cent of a university’s operating expenses. The rest is paid
for by government subsidies and philanthropic contributions, nei-
ther of which a University of Miramichi would be entitled to un-
less it was endowed public status by an act of the Legislature. New
Brunswick has four public universities but has yet to express any
desire to increase that number. Neighbouring Nova Scotia, by the
way, has close to a dozen.
This is where we have to pull some political slight-of-hand. A
portion of the Miramichi Prosperity Task Force fund could be used
to offset our lack of public funding. A university is a business. As
mentioned earlier, education is becoming a dominant market of the
future, especially in terms of international students. While a stu-
dent studies, they normally don’t take away jobs but rather provide
them by injecting tens of thousands of dollars into the local economy
each year. A report published by the University of New Brunswick’s
Economics Department (Sept. 2002) stated the university gener-
ated a financial impact of $1.68 for every dollar spent, without
taking its public funding into consideration. The value increases to
$3.93 in comparison with “seed capital” received from the N.B.
government as an operating grant. From that point of view, a uni-
versity is a very lucrative thing to have around.
And of course, the social impact of having students is just as
immeasurable as the impact of their absence.
17

By Dan Benoit
As the pilots make their way to the
regular 1 p.m. meeting, word sweeps
through Forest Protection Limited’s
headquarters in Chatham of two wild
fires burning in the province. One is
just outside Fredericton, the other
only miles away in a residential area
of Miramichi. The pilots of the last
three commercially used Grumman
TBM Avengers on Earth might be
beating back forest flames any
minute.
Though more than 60 years old,
the Avengers have proven them-
selves time and again as rugged,
reliable firefighting aircraft.
An air of excitement builds among
the pilots as they make their way to
the meeting room.
“This’ll be my first fire,” said
Bill Gillies of British Columbia,
who is flying number 10 Avenger.
“I’ve been waiting a month.”
The pilots gather around a long
table for the briefing.
Pilot Yves St. Germain reads the
most recent weather reports. Winds
are up and it’s hot and dry: perfect
18
conditions for a small fire to turn
into a raging inferno. The pilots ask
a few questions about the
Fredericton and Miramichi fires.
They’re under control for now, but
the pilots, as always, are on
standby.
After the meeting, St. Germain
explains the importance of the
weather briefing.
“I’ve been in fire suppression for
20 years. I’ve seen all kinds of fires
over the years. Sometimes the
weather changes on you pretty
quick,” he said.
“That’s the thing with this job. If it
rains, it rains. If it’s nice, you get
work.”
Above: An Avenger is refuelled.
Top: Past photo, taken when six
Avengers were operated by FPL.
Top inset: Avenger in flight over
Miramichi.
Founded in 1952, Forest Protection
Limited (FPL) is a non-profit com-
pany mandated to protect the prov-
ince’s forests from the air.
At its peak, FPL had 45 craft in its
contract fleet. But operations were
scaled back over the years and only
six fire-fighting aircraft now remain
in active service. Three are Aveng-
ers.
The center of the province is more
prone to lightning strikes, St.
Germain said. With its long runway
and geographic location, the
Chatham airport is a natural spot for
the company’s headquarters. “We
can cover the province from here.”
Gillies agreed.
“This is a good strip,” he said, add-
ing some of the strips they use, like
the one in Sevogle, aren’t much
wider than the wings of the planes.
The pilots come from all across
Canada but call Miramichi home
from April to September. Sitting
around the waiting room, they toss
tales of fire battles back and forth.
“It’s usually not a very nice day,”
said Erwin Joyall, the most senior
pilot there.
“You don’t have nice, smooth fly-
ing conditions for fires. It’s dry and
hot and windy.”
The bomber team’s main job is to
control the direction of the fires, not
put them out, Joyall said.
“That’s a job done by the ground
crew. We contain it.”
The bombers carry a retardant
made of fertilizer and water. The
Avengers can carry 500 gallons of
fire-retardant, about 2,270 litres.
Their bulk gives them the advantage
of stability in the air. “They’re such
“If these things were a car,
they’d still have a war-
ranty on them. They’re a
good airplane.”
a heavy plane they can absorb a lot,”
explained Sandy McKinnon, Chief
Air Attack officer.
Three newer aircraft sit waiting on
the airstrip for another chance to soar
in the clouds. Though slightly
smaller in size than the Avengers, the
Air tractor 802 can carry 100 gallons
more retardant than their older sib-
lings. But they’re harder to handle,
McKinnon said. “These ones are
lighter and they take a little more fi-
nesse.”
The wind tears across the runway.
The sky is hazy, the air heavy and
hot. The pilots are getting restless.
Gillies watches fellow Avenger pi-
lot Kevin Dorcas riding a bicycle
around in circles.
Gillies left a good flying job behind
him in British Columbia to fly an
Avenger. He was working for a
friend’s company as a bush pilot
when he got the job offer. For him, it
wasn’t a difficult choice.
“I said ‘Pete, I’ve just got to go. I’ve
been dreaming of flying these TBMs
my whole aviation life. I’m sorry, but
I’ve got to go.’”
He looks at his plane.
“That’s the lure of the TBM. I threw
it all out the window when I got the
opportunity to fly these things.
“That’s the last working fleet. It’s
the thrill of a lifetime to be able to
fly an aircraft like this operationally.”
Later, pilot Ronald Clowes from
Grand Falls shows off the signature
put on the side of his aircraft by
former United States president
George Bush. On July 9, 2002,
Clowes and his team met the 41st
president, who flew and had to ditch
an Avenger during the Second World
War. Meeting Bush was an experi-
ence he’ll remember for a long time,
he said.
The largest single-engine aircraft
built during the Second World War,
the first Grumman TBM Avenger
took flight on Aug. 1, 1941. Between
1941 and 1943, almost 2,300 of the
American-made torpedo bombers
were built. From the landings at
Guadalcanal in August of 1942 until
the end of the Pacific campaign in
1945 the Avenger was the only ship-
board torpedo aircraft in use by the
U.S. Navy.
The pilots aren’t the only ones
Mechanics working on aircraft in the hangar.
who appreciate these old aircraft.
“The mechanics love these
airplanes,” Gillies said. “These ba-
bies are their pride and joy and they
know these babies inside out.”
The three Avengers at the base have
very few man-hours and a lot of ten-
der loving care has gone into their
maintenance, McKinnon said.
“If these things were a car, they’d still
have a warranty on them. They’re a
good airplane.”
Watching as an Avenger arrives.
Sometimes after refueling, a me-
chanic will come to the hanger door
and listen to the sound of the engine
from across the airstrip, Gillies said.
“They’ll give you a little nod and
you know your aircraft is working
well. They’re the real heroes. We just
get to have all the fun.”
Clowes mentioned another unsung
19
hero, Miramichi firefighter David
Flieger, who volunteers his time
driving a crash truck at the airstrip.
“All of his spare time he’s over here
with the crash truck. The pilots re-
ally appreciate it,” Clowes said.
“It’s a nice thing to come in at night
and see that big yellow fire truck on
the end.”
Clowes recalled a fire the team
fought in Riverview in June of this
year.
“We dumped 70 loads plus what-
ever the two planes from Quebec
dropped,” Clowes said.
“I thought they were gonna lose a
whole row of houses and we saved
every damn one of them.”
The whole team is like a big fam-
ily, Clowes said. “These guys are re-
ally nice guys to work with.”
It has a lot to do with their work
ethic, he said. “We try to give 100
20
per cent or nothing. I think we proved
that on that Riverview fire.”
St. Germain said 1986 was the
worst year for fires he can remem-
ber.
“Newcastle, Renous, Gagetown,
Kirkwood. Everywhere you looked
there were fires.”
Offering a different opinion,
McKinnon said the dry summer of
1999 was the worst.
“We had about 150 missions that
year.”
On average, the company might
have 30 to 40 missions a year,
McKinnon said.
The fire burning in Miramichi has
been put out by the city fire depart- knew he’d never get a chance like
ment. No word on the one in this one again.
Fredericton yet. “You could have millions of dol-
The pilots wait. lars but you couldn’t buy this because
Looking at the three Avengers lined it’s so unique,” he said. “I’m just
up on the airstrip, Gillies said he proud to be part of it all.”
Title photos provided courtesy of
Forest Protection Ltd.
Feature photos by Dan Benoit.
Ideas for upcoming
feature stories?
Email us at
editor@fareasterner.com!
 Pets
Fight or Flea
by Elizabeth Hale DVM
Fleas. These parasitic insects are
one of nature’s most persistent pests,
and the bane of many a pet owner. I
see fleas on animals throughout the
year, but autumn is when the popu-
lation is highest. Given this year’s
heat and humidity (the flea’s favour-
ite climate for reproduction), the au-
tumn of 2004 should produce a
bumper crop!
Dog and cat fleas spend their short
adult lives on their hosts, feeding on
blood and laying many, MANY eggs.
These eggs fall from the animal’s
coat to the ground (or carpet, floor,
furniture...they’re not fussy) where
they hatch into caterpillars. The cat-
erpillars grow and spin cocoons from
which they emerge as adults, ready
to jump onto the first host (dog, cat,
ferret, etc.) that walks by.
The cocoons are extremely tough.
For example, they are resistant to
insecticidal sprays. And, the little
fleas in their cocoons also know
when to hatch. If winter comes, they
will wait for spring. If the environ-
ment becomes very dry, they wait for
humidity. Fleas are survivors.
As the fleas multiply, so do the bites
and so does your pet’s discomfort
(compare it to being in the woods at
night without fly repellent). And, if
your pet develops an allergy to the
flea bites it will be miserable. Ani-
mals with flea allergies are so itchy
they will literally lick and chew
themselves raw, especially in their
hind quarters, causing skin infections
needing veterinary attention. “Great fleas have little
What is the best way to deal with
fleas? Prevent having these uninvited
fleas upon their backs to
bite ‘em, And little fleas
guests in the first place. There are have lesser fleas, and so
many excellent, cost effective and on, ad infinitum...”
environmentally friendly flea prod- Augustus de Morgan
ucts available now. Some kill the
adult fleas and are especially help-
ful if your are dealing with large
numbers of fleas or an animal with a
flea allergy. Others prevent fleas
from reproducing; starting your pet
on one of these products in the
spring/summer will prevent an au-
tumn flea population explosion. If
your schedule allows it, daily use of
a flea comb also works. Your local
veterinary clinic can help you choose
a product that is right for you.
Before these treatments came on the
market, we relied mainly on sprays
or powders containing pyrethrin or
permethrin. These insecticides have
been used, and misused, for ages, so
more and more fleas are showing
resistance to them (thus, they may –
or may not – work). They are now
also available at department stores
as over-the-counter “spot on” prod-
ucts. Personally, I have never been
keen on these items being used with-
out veterinary advice. Cats are very
sensitive to these insecticides, and
people have been known to put the
more concentrated dog products on
cats, or to “double dose” their pets,
because the fleas (probably resistant)
aren’t dying, resulting in an emer-
gency trip to the vet!
In summary, using a safe and reli-
able flea prevention product will ul-
timately save you worry and veteri-
nary costs, and allow you and your
pet to enjoy the summer and autumn
rather than dread the “flea season”.
21
 The Starry Eye
By Christine Davison
christine@fareasterner.com
Thank Heavens! For all those who remember
those pesky problems last month with travel and
communications, Mercury in retrograde (the mis-
chief-maker), finally leaves us on the third!
The month ahead will be a good time to con-
trol gambling impulses. However, September will
also be a very good time for romance and the
beginning of new friendships. Love is in the air!
Aries (21st March – 20th April) Control those
fiery impulses! Try not to quarrel at work or with
family members. It’s a good time to look at re-
newing long-term insurance, wills, mortgages or
other finances. There is a possibility of discov-
ering hidden money or resources.
Taurus (21st April – 21st May) Create and beau-
tify! An attempt to improve feelings of posses-
siveness towards family members will benefit all.
Look into higher education and/or travel. Now
is a good time to learn a new language.
Gemini (22nd May – 21st June) It may be pru-
dent to become more emotionally involved in
your career, and/or more aware of changes that
could lead to greater status, and public recogni-
tion. Success!
Cancer (22nd June – 22nd July) Take care to
maintain the oncoming flow of emotions in the
weeks ahead; it’s a good time to take up humani-
tarian or environmental work. It comes naturally
to you.
Leo (23rd July – 23rd August) Your organiza-
tional skills and problem solving capabilities are
good but need to be worked upon or future self-
esteem may suffer as a result. You’re a good
leader, keep it up.
Virgo (24th August – 22nd September) You may
feel caged in this month, try not to let it upset
22
you too much. Perhaps escaping with a long bath
or detective novel may do you some good. Pam-
per yourself.
Libra (23rd September – 23rd October) This is
good time to look over house matters and re-
lated concerns, individual partnerships or the arts.
Take care not to overeat, but don’t deny yourself
either!
Scorpio (24th October – 22nd November) Past
difficulties with parents and siblings may come
to surface. Concerns with moving may weigh ob-
sessively in the mind; try to relax, these prob-
lems will soon pass.
Sagittarius (23rd November – 21st December)
This may be a time of sudden upset and turmoil
especially concerning house and family. Past
maternal issues come to light. A good time to do
something adventurous.
Capricorn (22nd December – 20th January) A
clear and creative time! Relationships with part-
ners and children will blossom and grow. There
is a possibility of new loves and friendships, and
an end to old quarrels.
Aquarius (21 st January – 18 th February)
Intuitions and first impressions may be clouded
at the moment, so try to examine things from a
more logical angle before making any judgement
based on “gut feelings”. Your intelligence will
shine through.
Pisces (19th February – 20th March) Wrestling
with moral questions and spiritual doubts weigh
heavily on your mind. Watch diet and exercise
and take care with routine work and hobbies.
Don’t worry; you’ll make the right decision.
Lucky numbers for September are:
26, 35, 17, 27, 37, and 47.
… and a thank-you to my favourite Scorpio-
Stephen Hefford, without whose assistance, this
month’s column would not have been possible.
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