This Issue...

Volume 1 Issue 3
November 2004 Features
Publisher
Ian Ross
REMEMBRANCE DAY
Features
At Home and Away ........................... 7
Dan Benoit
Wendy Patterson Peacekeeping................................ 19

Sales & Design

Ian Ross

Contributors
Christine Davison READY FOR WINTER
Stephen MacKnight
Dr. France Vienneau Snowmobiling 2004-2005.......... 10
April Walsh
Winter Car Care ................. 14

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COVER STORY
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©Copyright 2004 A Stitch in Time ............. 5

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RECIPES........................................................................12
PETS: Poisonings in Dogs and Cats ..........................................16
MUSIC: Clinically Insufficient .......................................17
INTERIOR DECORATING: Seasonal Accessories .......18
HAPPENINGS ..........................................................21
ASTROLOGY.................................................................22

3
 From the Publisher
November promises to bring the cold weather that we’ve been dreading and so,
this month, Miramichi Monthly is offering a few stories to help you bundle up for the
season. Dan Benoit takes the lead in that department with two stories. In anticipation
of this year’s impending snowmobile escapades, he takes you to the trails. Then, it’s
back to the garage to make sure that your automobile is going to keep you on the
roads.
Of course, nothing keeps you warmer on a chilly Miramichi night than a homemade
quilt. If you happen to find one that surpasses simple blocks and checks, that’s some-
thing to write about—which I did after visiting with the Miramichi Quilt Guild.
Our recipes, this month, are also of the variety to give you lots of energy and fill up
your belly for a long winter’s hibernation.
Very important to this month is our remembrance and gratitude toward those who
fought and fight to keep us sovereign and free. Wendy Patterson takes a look at the
world war periods for Miramichi and also at the present day peacekeepers who are
maintaining the watch.
Regular writers have also returned. Dr. France Vienneau, this month’s veterinary
columnist, teaches us about animal safety—specifically poisons. Stephen MacKnight
gets down to basics with local garage band, Clinically Insufficient. April Walsh gives
us some pointers to kick off our own interior decorating and astrologer, Christine
Davison, is back to warn us about the ubiquitous Scorpio in this month’s stars.
I also like to happily report on a couple of new facets to this month. We have a new
column reserved for local events that are taking place, called “Happenings”. Also I
wish to thank the Chatham and Newcastle Public Libraries who have offered to dis-
tribute a few extra copies of Miramichi Monthly to anyone who doesn’t yet receive it
at home (or if you’d like to sneak another for yourself).
We continue to grow with the support that you, the community, have given us. Look
out next month as we add even more new features and slide into the holiday season.
Until next month,

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4

by Ian Ross
If happiness is a warm blanket, as
Linus said in Peanuts, then surely doz-
ens of quilt enthusiasts coming together
must be absolutely euphoric. For the
past five years, quilters from through-
out the Miramichi area have been gath-
ering to stitch and share their time and
talent.
The Miramichi Quilt Guild is one of
fourteen guilds in New Brunswick that
meet to exchange ideas, friendships, and
promote the art of quilting. Each Tues-
day night, they assemble at the Sea-
man’s Hospital, from the first Tuesday
in September until the last Tuesday in
May. Last year, the organization
boasted 82 members and has been grow-
ing each year since its founding in 1999.
“We all enjoy getting together to swap
patterns, tools, and techniques,” said
member Krystal Blackmore, who may
be one of the youngest members of the
guild. For her it’s an opportunity to pre-
serve cultural history but also some of
her own personal history.
“When I was young, my great grand-
mother and I sewed together,”
Blackmore said. “Now, at this point in
my life, I am taking an interest in tradi-
tional women’s crafts, and this year, I’ve
begun quilting together with my grand-
mother.”
Judy Vautour is another member who
keeps her family traditions alive through
quilting. For her, she has a unique link
with New Brunswick artist, John Lars
Johnson. “He was my great uncle,” she
explains while showing a quilt she has
completed, featuring the famous Saint
John clipper ship, the Marco Polo, and
based on Johnson’s 1920 painting.
“He was a sailor and after he didn’t
sail anymore, he was a painter. He
painted ten paintings for the Saint John
Museum, and the Marco Polo became
the most famous.”
Vautour’s quilt also earned some fame
for its creator, being judged the 2003
winner in a contest put on by the Saint
John quilter’s guild, also incidentally
named after the ship.
Sailing ships are just one example of
how the guild moves beyond traditional
patterns to experiment and produce
pieces that have as much contemporary
artistic value as they do sentimental
wealth. Guildmembers routinely move
beyond simple designs to learn more and
more ways to express their art and ad-
vance their craft. By working together,
members are able to brainstorm a lot of
new ideas.
“We have an ‘idea box’ and everybody
puts something in,” said Jackie
Stephens. “At the end of the year we
get ready for next year. The members
choose 8 to 10 ideas from the box that
we will all work on. If we don’t have
The Miramichi Quilt Guild banner, by
Judy Rogers, features violets symbolic
of the province as well as emblems of
the Miramichi from salmon and the Sea-
man’s Hospital, to the Centennial Bridge
and boating. Of course, miniature quilts
can be seen drying on the clothesline.
(Ian Ross photos and images).
5

The quilted Marco Polo, by Judy
Vautour, based on the painting by
John Lars Johnson.
the design, we’ll find it on the internet,
like with the Lover’s Knot pattern this
year.”
Maureen English joined as one of nine
founding members in 1999. For her,
guild-sponsored workshops are a strong
source for innovation.
“We did a workshop in the winter of
2003,” English said. “There were 15 or
20 of us who did the workshop for help
on choosing fabrics, where we had to
go from light to dark. We each took a
quarter-yard of fabric, cut into two-inch
strips and traded.”
The result for English was Braided
Charm. Set on a black background, it
uses wedges of colour to create a sooth-
6
Braided Charm, by Maureen English,
begun as an experiment in fabrics
and colour theory.
ing prismatic effect.
Some teaching is also done outside the
guild. Several volunteers, including
English, have been working with the
Miramichi Association for Community
Living Inc., an organization which aids
mentally challenged people in coping
with everyday living. The quilting
course lasts six weeks, with all fees re-
turned to the association.
Quilters have been helping out a lot.
Their first charity donation was to the
Red Cross in Saint John, for aiding those
hit by the September 11th disaster in the
United States. Quilters from the
Miramichi guild helped to contribute 17
quilts to that cause. Since then, they
Guildmembers at work on
the nine-patch quit.
have donated quilts to such causes as
the Miramichi Transition House, Mount
St. Joseph, the Kelowna Fire, and the
Miramichi hospital. In preparation for
next year, a quilt for the Diabetes Asso-
ciation is in the works, as is an enor-
mous nine-patch quilt, worked on by all
the members, which will also be donated
to a worthy cause.
Togetherness is a word that is ex-
pressed frequently when members are
asked about what enjoyment and impor-
tance the Quilt Guild offers. But for
the community, beyond acts of charity,
they not only help to preserve an his-
toric art form, but are advancing the
medium through their own talents and
vision. Membership in the Miramichi
Quilt Guild is open to anyone, with an-
nual dues of just 20 dollars. Quilters
meet every Tuesday night (September
to May), from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m., at the
Seaman’s Hospital in Douglastown.

by Wendy Patterson
In 1914, Miramichi city was a scatter-
ing of small towns and villages along
the river, intermixed with farmland and
forest. Telephones were not in wide-
spread use, automobiles were relatively
rare, and most of the traffic over the fer-
ries was still on horseback or in horse-
drawn vehicles.
In Newcastle, a new wireless station
had just been built to receive and pass
on radio transmissions in Morse code
from overseas. The station had five tow-
ers, the tallest of which was 300 ft high.
Owned by the British Radio Syndicate,
engineered by Germans and managed
by an American, it was truly an interna-
tional venture. Only three such stations
existed in all of North America
On a Sunday in late June of 1914,
Archduke Franz Ferdinand, heir to the
throne of Austria, was assassinated in
Sarajevo. Life in New Brunswick went
on without disruption. When Austria
declared war on Serbia, straining the
already tense political situation in Eu-
rope, most Canadians were uncon-
cerned.
However, on August fourth, Britain
officially entered the war. Canada, then
still as much a colony as an indepen-
dent nation, quickly stepped up to sup-
port Britain. At the time, Canada had a
regular army of only about 3000 per-
sonnel, and a tiny Navy consisting of
300 men and two ships.
In Chatham, the army quickly set up a
recruiting office at the Touraine Hotel,
which stood at the corner of Duke and
Cunard Streets. Young volunteers,
drawn by British enthusiasm and visions
of glorious adventures, came forward in
great numbers to sign on. Many brought
horses with them, as a soldier would be
paid 8 cents extra for supplying his own
mount.
Soldiers trained at the Exhibition
grounds and were boarded at the
Chatham Pulp and Sulfite Mill, which
stood where St Andrew’s Elementary is
now. Later they would be sent to join
active units before going overseas.
As the situation in Europe continued
to escalate, Newcastle’s new wireless
station came under the control of the 73rd
Northumberland Regiment, one of two
local militia units.
Colonel Mackenzie was in charge of
setting up a training camp around the
station, and assigning members to moni-
tor radio transmissions. Messages from
North America and overseas were re-
ceived, decoded, recorded and passed
on by military personnel. The station
was of absolute importance to Allied
success in the war, as all messages from
Europe to Upper Canada had to be re-
layed through Newcastle. Officers were
responsible for ensuring that no poten-
tially dangerous information was re-
leased to the public.
Soldiers from regiments all over New
Brunswick came to the Newcastle wire-
less station to train for two to three
The Touraine Hotel (Ian Ross, illust.)
weeks before returning to their units, or
larger bases such as Camp Sussex. They
lived at first in tents, until the barracks
and other buildings were finally com-
pleted in early winter. The base sup-
ported a substantial military population
throughout the war, and supplying the
soldiers with food and other necessities
7
gave a welcome boost to the local
economy.
The 28th Field Battery, an artillery re-
serve unit, was also mobilized. Mem-
bers of the 28th and the 73rd were sent to
primary combat units, to help supple-
ment the force being sent overseas.
Many from the Miramichi found them-
selves in King George’s Regiment (oth-
erwise known as the Fighting 26 th),
which was based out of St. John. How-
ever, others were assigned to regiments
from across the country.
Two months after Canada officially
entered the war, volunteers and reserv-
ists from the Miramichi joined 32,000
other recruits from every province at
Camp Valcartier in Quebec.
Shortly afterward, the First Contingent
of the Canadian Expeditionary Force
(along with a contingent from the Brit-
ish Dominion of Newfoundland) set out
by sea for England. Miramichi soldiers
were to fight in almost every major
battle of the European conflict.
In the trench war overseas, Canadians
quickly came to be respected by allies
and enemies as fierce fighters and a
strong army. The Canadian victory at
Vimy Ridge – a heavily fortified and
guarded German stronghold – was con-
sidered a clear example of the Canadian
military’s determination, diligent train-
ing and careful organization.
Vimy Ridge is considered by many to
be the moment when Canada was de-
fined as a nation in the eyes of the rest
of the world. At the signing of the Ar-
mistice - which marked the end of the
war on Nov 11, 1918 - Canada signed
as an independent country.
The Canadian military had grown sub-
stantially in response to its role in the
rapidly changing world. By the end of
the war, the navy had grown from a fleet
of two battleships to over 100 vessels,
including two subs.
As airplanes were adapted for use in
the war, Canadians became pilots and
crew for surveillance craft, bombers,
and the ever-famous fighter planes, such
8
The North Shore Sergeant’s Mess at Camp Sussex
(Photo courtesy of the Miramichi Natural History Musem).
as the British Sopwith Camel. By 1918,
Canada had the beginnings of its own
Air Force.
Returning soldiers came home to a
grateful and relieved national welcome.
The Newcastle wireless station, having
served its purpose as a vital communi-
cations link during the war, was returned
to the civilian population.
The military training base was closed
down, but the station continued to act
as a connection between Canada and
Europe until it was eventually replaced
by more modern technology. Little is
known of its role in later years, but one
of the generator buildings from the
original wireless station is still used by
Castle Machine Works in Newcastle.
By the start of the Second World War
in 1939, the Canadian military was well-
established. The air force, in particu-
lar, had grown considerably. Military
bases had been set up all over the
Maritimes to train personnel and guard
against attack.
The military was much better prepared
for a conflict, and fortunately so, as war
was now much closer to home than it
had ever been in 1914.
Miramichi residents lived under the
constant threat of German infiltration by
submarine along the coast. There are
several unconfirmed stories of strang-
ers who turned out to be Nazi submari-
ners, come ashore seeking medical at-
tention or supplies.
To prevent German spies from enter-
ing towns and villages, uniformed mili-
tia troops were posted on bridges
throughout the area. It was not unusual
to see high school students carrying
loaded weapons as they guarded a
bridge on their weekends or afternoons.
Fear of air raids also hung over
everyone’s heads. Although no air raids
had ever been launched against Canada,
Canadians heard constantly about the
destruction caused by German raids on
British cities.
Volunteers, many of them veterans of
the First World War, were assigned to
act as blackout wardens. They ensured
that every night each house had its
blackout curtains in place, so that an
attacking German bomber would not be
able to see the lights and know there was
civilization below.
Chatham became a training base for
the Air Force, using Avro Anson aircraft
built in Nova Scotia. The Chatham
squadron served a dual purpose, both
to train new pilots and to carry out re-
connaissance missions, searching the
Miramichi area and the coast for signs
of enemy aircraft or submarines. Pilots
trained at Chatham would go on to fly
bombers, such as Lancasters, or other
aircraft overseas.
The former 73rd Northumberland, now
known as the North Shore Battalion, had
been called up to active duty at the start
of the war, as had the 28th Field Battery.
Soldiers from these units were once
again assigned to other regiments where
their skills were required. They would Avro Anson (Ian Ross, illust.)
be transferred to Camp Sussex in New
Brunswick or to Camp Debert or Camp
Aldershot in Nova Scotia. Most were Overlord, commonly called D-Day or Forces Base Chatham, home of the
sent to Italy to help fight the Germans the Normandy invasion. Canadian Golden Hawks aerobatic team, housed
on that front. troops played a major part in this mas- Sabers, Silver Stars, Voodoos, and an
Both at home and overseas, the North sive international offensive, which assortment of other aircraft, as well as
Shore had acquired a substantial repu- helped bring an end to the Second World an Army air defense battery, until the
tation, not only for their skill and train- War. base was closed in the mid-nineties.
ing, but also for their “high-spirited” The Canadian military did not simply The Miramichi remains home to the
antics while in camp. They are the sub- dwindle away at the end of the war. Second Royal New Brunswick Regi-
ject of a multitude of stories and even a Canada had joined the United Nations, ment (North Shore), and to armed forces
poem. and was therefore responsible for help- personnel stationed across Canada and
Many soldiers from the Miramichi and ing maintain the tenuous peace that fol- overseas.
surrounding area fought in Operation lowed the Allied victory. Canadian

9
Let it Snow
Snowmobiling 2004-2005
by Dan Benoit
Since Canada’s Bombardier invented the snowmobile in 1959,
it’s become all the rage among people who would rather be out
and about than hibernating all winter.
Today’s snowmobiles are quieter, more stable, and more reli-
able than earlier models and some can reach speeds over 100
kilometres per hour.
With over 20,000 snowmobile users in New Brunswick,
snowmobiling has really taken off as a family winter sport.
To enjoy the sport you need a snowmobile and a truck or trailer
to carry it. You don’t need a license to operate a snowmobile
but the law requires you to register the vehicle with the prov-
ince’s Motor Vehicle Branch.
You’ll also need a trail permit if you plan to tour the province’s
network of groomed trails. But things are a little different than
they were last year.
Recently, changes were announced to the way these permits
are sold, said Gary Roy, a director with the Miramichi Valley
Snowmobile Club. These changes were unveiled at an October
meeting of the New Brunswick Federation of Snowmobile Clubs,
which Roy attended.
For example, snowmobile clubs will no longer be issuing trail
10
permits, he said. “This year we passed a motion to turn it over
to Service New Brunswick.”
This change will make things more convenient for snowmobile
users, he said. “When you go in to register your snowmobile,
you can get your permits at the same time.”
A $10 price increase for trail permits was also announced. “It’s
$135 before December 15 and $185 after December 15,” he
said.
Members of the RCMP were at the meeting to let people know
they’ll be keeping a sharp eye out for vehicle infractions. For
instance, there’ll be a $600 fine for not having insurance on the
snowmobiles.
“Which is a pretty lofty fine, but they’re going to crack down
on that. They’re going to enforce it a lot more heavily,” he said.
The RCMP will also be checking to see if vehicle plates are
visible.
 Though snowmobiling is a lot of fun, it can be a costly hobby.
The average machine costs several thousand dollars.
“You can get one anywhere from $7,000 to $14,000.” 
Maintenance is also expensive. “It costs so much to run them.”
While no driver’s license is required to operate a snowmobile
in New Brunswick, children under 16 have to take a driver’s
education course, he said. 
Obviously, weather is also a big factor in the sport. A late snow-
fall can affect the entire season, he said. “If you don’t get a 
good snow base before Christmas, you might as well kiss the
entire season goodbye.”
Snowmobiling is the main entertainment in Roy’s family. He, 
his wife and his sons all have their own machines, he said. “We’re 
going all the time as a family. We all enjoy it.”
He has some advice for people who want to get into the sport.
“You want to have lots of money,” he laughed. “Have lots of 
money for gas, because they’re gas guzzlers.” 
Warm clothing is important too, he said. “Buy yourself a good
suit, nice and warm, and gloves.” Goggles and a good quality
helmet are also a must. 
For safety’s sake, Roy encouraged both veterans and people
new to the sport to travel in groups. “Never travel alone.” 
Staying on marked trails and carrying emergency food and fuel 
is a good idea as well. He also encouraged people to join
snowmobile clubs both for the social aspect as well as the fi-
nancial. “It’ll keep your costs down.”
A snowmobile may not be operated within 7.5 m
(approx. 25 ft) of the traveled portion of a
highway except to cross the highway or when
necessary for loading and unloading purposes.
Before crossing a public road, stop, look and
listen. If the way is clear, it is safe to cross.
Snowmobiles must be equipped with lights, and
it is recommended that they be turned on
during daytime travel.
Always drive on the right-hand side of the trail.
Any person who drives or is a passenger of a
snowmobile must wear an approved helmet,
securely fastened.
Obey all signs posted along the trails.
Snowmobiling while under the influence of
alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited and
against the law.
Always travel in the company of other
snowmobilers.
Dress appropriately for cold conditions.
Remember to stick to the trails. If you leave the
trails, you may be trespassing.
11
Saturday Night Baked Beans Hamburg Chowder
Marie Shaw, Napan, NB Thelma Hayward, Miramichi, NB

1 lb. White beans Cut into cubes:

½ cup molasses 3 potatoes
1 tsp. dry mustard 3 carrots
½ tsp. ginger 1 onion
¼ tsp. black pepper ½ green pepper
3 strips bacon 2 stalks celery
1/3 cup brown sugar Cook in 3 cups of water for 15 minutes
1 tsp. salt Brown 1 ½ lb. hamburg
1 onion, chopped Add:
1 can beef consommé soup
Clean and rinse beans. Soak overnight in water. In the 1 can tomato soup
morning, drain and add clean water. Boil 15-30 min. until Combine above two mixtures.
skins break when you low on them. Add:
Drain. 1 tsp. salt
Add all ingredients and mix together. Cover with water, ½ tsp. pepper
just to the top of beans. ¼ tsp. thyme
Cover and bake in 250° oven for 7-8 hours. ¼ tsp. summer savory
Do not stir while baking. Remove cover for the last 2 Bring to a boil.
hours so they will brown. Long, slow cooking is best. Serve.

12
 Thank you to everyone who
November’s Specials: submitted a recipe this month!
Next month we are seeking your best, Christ-
Hardy Meals for Winter mas gutbusters! Please send submissions to
editor@fareasterner.com or mail to: Fareasterner,
1773 Water St., Miramichi, NB, E1N 1B2.

Lazy Casserole Cabbage Rolls Haggis

Publisher’s special for St. Andrew’s Day.
Betty Lynch, Redmondville, NB
1 cup suet
1 Pound Ground Beef
1½ soup bowls oatmeal
3 Onions, chopped (Use 2 if you wish.)
1 bowl flour
3 Cups coarsely shredded cabbage
Onions (a lot, chopped fine)
3 Tablespoons raw rice (white, long grain)
1 10 oz. can tomato soup
Mix until mealy in food processor.
1 10 oz. can water
Add salt, pepper, and spices of your choice.
1 Teaspoon salt
Make a bag of white cotton.
¼ Teaspoon Pepper
Wet and sprinkle inside with flour.
Add water to mixture to form ball.
In frying pan, brown beef. Add onions, salt and pepper
Fill bag and leave room for expansion.
and rice. Stir, cooking for about 2 or 3 minutes. Add
Boil 1½ hours in pot of boiling water.
soup and water and mix well.
Put cabbage in greased casserole dish. Pour meat
mixture evenly over cabbage. Do not stir. Bake covered
at 325°F.

Dump Cake
Betty Lynch, Redmondville, NB
Place fruit in an ungreased 9”X13” glass pan. Sprinkle dry
1 Can cherry pie filling cake mix on top. Spread melted margarine over dry cake
1 Can pineapple tidbits and juice (or 1 can fruit cocktail with mix. Sprinkle coconut over top. Bake at 350°F for 30
juice) minutes or until top is golden brown.
1 Package (18¼ oz.) yellow or golden cake mix Serve warm with Cool Whip or vanilla ice cream on top. It
¾ Cup margarine (melted) is also good served cold.
1 Cup coconut

13
 Winter Car Care
by Dan Benoit

Miramichi winters can be rough on your vehicle. Vehicles don’t like the cold and
frigid winter temperatures and that can bring problems. But routine maintenance
can save you a lot of money and a lot of frustration in the long run.
Here are some tips to help keep your vehicle running well on icy winter days
without taking a bite out of your pocketbook.

 Make sure your battery and charging system are in good operating condition. A
battery’s cranking power is reduced in freezing weather. A good set of jumper
cables in your trunk can save a lot of aggravation.

Make sure oil, gas and air filters are in top condition. Check coolant and ther-
mostat to ensure proper engine warm up, as well as heater and defroster operation.
Coolant should be changed every two years. Check for and replace soft or leaking
hoses.

 Check tires for wear and proper inflation. Low pressure increases wear and
increases fuel consumption while over pressure can reduce traction, especially in
icy conditions.

Motor oil should be changed routinely to help prevent excessive moisture and
fuel build-up in winter conditions.

Vehicle warm up is important. When starting a vehicle in cold weather allow

the engine to idle for a few seconds before driving off, to insure proper oil flow
and lubrication. Don’t let the engine idle too long after cold weather start up. This
practice wastes fuel and doesn’t warm up the drive train components. After start
up, drive easily for several kilometres to ensure the vehicle warms up properly.

14
Go slow. Unnecessarily speeding up, slowing down and stopping can de-
Winter
crease fuel economy. Pace your driving to avoid the need for sudden stops, Survival
which is especially critical during wet and icy road conditions.
Kit
 Make sure you have window ice scrapers and de-icers available. Also, make
sure your windshield wipers and front and rear defrosters are working prop- Here are a few things
erly. that might come in
handy if you’re ever
Having a small shovel is also useful to dig out of the snow. A bag of sand in stuck in the winter:
the trunk will not only help give added traction to the wheels, but can be used  Blankets/sleeping bags
to sprinkle on the snow and ice to get better traction. Don’t forget personal
 High-calorie, non-perishable
protection such as a warm coat, hat and gloves, and a blanket in case you get
food
stuck in a storm.
 Flashlight with extra batteries
 Extra clothing to keep dry
 A large empty can and plastic
cover with tissues and paper
towels for sanitary purposes
A smaller can and water-proof
matches to melt snow for drinking
water
 Sack of sand (or cat litter)
 Shovel
 Windshield scraper and brush
 Tool kit
 Tow rope
 Booster cables
 Water container
 Compass
 Road maps
 First aid kit
 Knife

15
 Pets
Poisonings in
A lot of food that we, humans, eat every
day can cause a lot of harm to your pet. A
lot of you already know that chocolate is
Dogs and Cats toxic to dogs. Indeed a single serving of
brownies can cause nervous signs in a small
dog. Excitement, trembling, seizures and
by Dr. France Vienneau even death can occur. Remember that the
Pet Love & Care Animal Hospital smaller the dog, the larger amount con-
sumed, and usually the darker the choco-
late, the more serious the effect can be.
Cocoa and coffee beans, unsweetened co-
coa powder, and baking chocolate are re-
sponsible for the most serious side effects.
Caffeine can also cause the same toxic ef-
fect on your pet.
Aside from chocolate, other foods that we
commonly eat can cause intoxications in
your animal. Onions or chronic consump-
tion of garlic can cause anemia, which is a
destruction of the red blood cells in dogs
and cats. Anemic animals can show signs
of fatigue, pale gums and reduced appetite.
Grapes, in large amounts, may cause acute
kidney failure. Macadamia nuts are known
to cause weakness of the back legs in dogs,
depression, lameness and vomiting. Signs
can start to appear within 12 hours after in-
gestion. Wild mushrooms can cause hallu-
cinations, abnormal behavior, confusion,
depression, abdominal pain, temporary
blindness and many other signs, even death,
all depending on the kind and quantity of
mushroom ingested.
Dogs and cats that are allowed outside
without supervision are much more at risk
of ingesting poisons. Slug bait, antifreeze,
rat poison, fertilizers, moth balls, insecti-
cides should never be left out where pets
can access them. Slug bait, antifreeze, and
rat poison exist in a form that is usually at-
tractive to curious pets. All can be deadly,
even in small quantity.
Insecticides sold as flea treatments for cats
and dogs can also be toxic if they are not
used properly. Make sure to read all the in-
dications on the box or bottle before buy-
ing these products. Don’t necessarily rely
on what the salesperson tells you. What is
safe for a dog may kill your cat, and what is
safe for an adult may be toxic for a puppy
or a kitten. There are very effective and safe
products that are now available to treat flea
infestations. If you want to know if what
you intend to use is safe, call your vet.
16
Commonly used home medications can be
dangerous to your pet. Antidepressants,
heart and blood pressure medication can
cause problems to your pet, if they acciden-
tally ingest them. Acetaminophen, com-
monly known as Tylenol™, is very toxic to
dogs and cats. It should never be given to
pets. Since the cat and dog liver cannot
transform it, it will cause severe liver and
blood problems.
Nicotine patches, cigarettes, and cigarette
butts can also be toxic if ingested. The signs
usually occur rapidly and are salivation, di-
arrhea, and urination. They can be followed,
if the amount ingested is important, by
weakness, depression, collapse and death.
One patch, 3 cigarettes or 10 cigarette butts
can be enough to intoxicate a small dog, so
make sure you store and dispose of these
products properly.
If you suspect your animal has been poi-
soned, call your veterinarian, the ASPCA
Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-
426-4435, or the International Animal Poi-
son Center hotline at 1-888-232-8870 as
soon as possible. Always have your vet of-
fice number or a veterinary emergency ser-
vice number on hand. Your vet or someone
at the poison center will be able to inform
you on what is the best thing to do for your
pet. Occasionally, you can also get some
valuable information by calling the company
that makes it. Their number can sometimes
be found on the container. Make sure to
stay calm, stay next to your pet while you
are on the phone so you are able to describe
any symptoms or answer any questions
asked about the condition of your animal.
If known, you should keep the product, sub-
stance, box or description of the product on
hand. If your pet is vomiting, keep a sample
of the vomitus. It is sometimes helpful to
help identify the product ingested. Have a
pen and paper on hand to write down any
instructions that will be given to you. The
vet will be able to instruct you on what to
do, depending on the product and symp-
toms. Different intoxications are treated dif-
ferently, so it is very important to verify with
the poison centre or a vet what is best to do
in each and every case.
Your pet depends on you for his safety,
please make your home pet-friendly, by
keeping dangerous stuff away!
 Music
Clinically Insufficient

by Stephen MacKnight
Today’s technology allows pretty
much anyone to have a recording stu-
dio in their own home. So why are there
not millions of home made albums in
every record store?
Although many musicians play around
with recording at home, it takes a whole
lot of discipline and guts to actually
come out with a finished product that
you don’t mind presenting to the world.
The term “garage band” originated at
the dawn of rock and roll as scores of
kids honed their skills in their parents’
basements and garages; the Miramichi
is home to several true garage bands and
the latest is Clinically Insufficient.
Three high school kids joined forces
in the summer of 2003 and, fueled by
their passion and drive, they have an
album for sale in the local record store.
Band photo.
Justin Mullin (bass and vocals), Brad
McCann (guitar), and Alex MacDonald in stores. band a very heavy sound that a proper
(drums) created “Some Assembly Re- “Some Assembly Required” is the studio would only enhance. The clos-
quired” in true DIY style. Brad and Jus- very portrait of a young band, flashes ing track “Revealed” is an acoustic cut
tin needed a drummer as their previous of brilliance and passion amid moments that is the lone change of pace, but a
group dissolved, so Alex volunteered. of tedium. The influences may be Nine- superb one it is; more tracks off the
He provided the home base and learned ties alternative but the sound is actually beaten path would serve this band well,
on the job as he was thrust practically closer to some Seventies hard rock; it but that is part of the learning process.
right into recording. A digital 16-track falls in the Soundgarden meets Black Justin has a couple of new songs writ-
was purchased and original material was Sabbath range, which isn’t a bad place ten but the band is dealing with the in-
worked up. to be. Justin’s voice is dark and deep evitable crush of the real world. Schools
Justin and Brad would trade riffs and but is not buried in the mix, rather it and jobs are necessary but so is the
ideas and eventually songs would form. rides along with the bass. The first two music. The trick is the balance. Soon,
Sometimes Justin’s lyrics would come songs “Throw You Away” and “Dismal hopefully, the promise of this first ef-
first; sometimes jamming would create Castaway” provide the blueprint for the fort will be fulfilled and the bandmates
a musical bed that required words. Their sound but they are actually the weakest can work and play and create.
love of the “grunge” movement with cuts on the CD. “Forgive and Forget” For more information on Clinically
bands like Nirvana, Soundgarden, and with it’s complex vocal line and “Dead Insufficient go to www.angelfire.com/
Pearl Jam who all have a ‘do-it-your- End” with it’s terrific verse-chorus band2/insufficient and check out their
self’ attitude, led to the artistic and fi- change are the highlights and both songs album at your local record store.
nancial commitment of putting an album are the most Sabbath-like giving the
17
 Seasonal Accessories for 2004

• Wrap up on cool nights with a

Dear Readers;
Thank you for your positive comments
and feedback from last month’s column.
I am pleased to answer questions regard-
ing your decorating challenges. Please
send as much information as you can,
such as floor plans, measurements, paint
and fabric swatches etc. I look forward
to hearing from you.
April Walsh is an interior decorator
with Just Because… I can Shoppe
in Miramichi. If you would like
some decorating advice, give her a
call at 622-7745 (62APRIL), email
her at april@fareasterner.com or
drop by her shop at 65 Henry St.
cozy cashmere or ultra suede
throw.
• Add a decorative screen and
fireplace accessories. A leather
basket provides a handsome
storage for logs
• Change your focal point by
adding canvas art. Try a winter
scene to set the tone.
• Create a warm glow with beau-
tiful candle sconces or decora-
tive tealight holders; spice it up
with a yummy apple scent.
• Seasonal toss pillows always
change the look of a tired sofa.
Look for ones that you can re-
move the slip covers like a pil-
lowcase. This way it is much
easier to store for the next sea-
son.
• Window covers have such an
impact in a room why not add
decorative panels along side of
your favourite sheers. Polysilks
are inexpensive and give the il-
lusions of silk and only you will
know the actual cost.
• Dig out your favourite novel
and add an element to your sofa
table while having something
to read when you snuggle up
in your favourite chair.

Question: Where can you start ?

Look around your home and you will

be surprised how many items you prob-
ably have. Be daring and start to group
things differently. Move the furniture
around to have a new visual. Unique
furnishings such as linens, custom fur-
niture, lamps, oversized prints and mir-
rors, gourmet products, and jewellery
are all things to consider when seeking
a way to change the mood of a room.

18

by Wendy Patterson
Canada’s first venture with the United
Nations was the Korean War. The ob-
jective for Canadian troops was to aid
democratic South Korea, which was
being invaded by communist North
Korea, and to maintain the international
peace that had existed in the five years
since the end of World War II.
Regular army combat, service and
medical units (not to mention aircraft
and ships) were deployed to help stabi-
lize the situation in Korea. While the
Canadian contribution was not that large
in comparison with the entire UN ef-
fort, it was still quite substantial. Over
33,000 Canadian troops served in Ko-
rea between 1950 and 1955.
Since the Korean War, members of
the Canadian military have served as
peacekeepers in nations around the
world, from Cyprus to Sierra Leone,
Cambodia to Kosovo.
Captain Scott Lloyd, an artillery of-
ficer who grew up in Miramichi, re-
cently returned from a six-month peace-
keeping tour in Bosnia.
“The objective of Peacekeeping,” he
explains, “is to provide a safe and se-
cure environment.” This safety and se-
curity is meant not only for citizens of
UN-protected nations, but also for gov-
ernment. Corruption in government is
a problem in many countries, and part
of the task for UN peacekeepers is to
help support and monitor new govern-
ments that have been appointed in war-
torn areas.
Canadian troops have been stationed
in Bosnia for over a decade. The war in
Bosnia, between the Ethnic Serbians,
Muslims and Croats, began in the early
1990’s. During the war, Canadian
Capt. Scott Lloyd, looking out over Bosnia.
(Scott Lloyd photos).
peacekeepers were assigned to help pro-
tect and aid people in isolated commu-
nities.
Even though the war was officially
ended by the Daton Peace Accord in
1996, a reduced UN presence is still
necessary in Bosnia. Organized crime
remains an obstacle to unified govern-
ment, and over 800,000 land mines re-
main unaccounted for in the Bosnian
countryside. People are warned to keep
to hard-packed surfaces, never cutting
across a field or walking on the soft
shoulder of a road, as soft ground or
vegetation can often hide mines.
Capt Lloyd worked as a forward air
controller and a joint military affairs
officer while in Bosnia. Besides assist-
ing in training exercises with UN air
force units – which he particularly en-
joyed – Capt Scott was responsible for
inspecting Bosnian bases to ensure that
all weapons were accounted for. Ter-
rorists and smugglers are still a very real
danger in Bosnia.
However, the UN presence in Bosnia
has shown results. Many areas are now
much safer, both for their own citizens
and international troops.
“At the beginning of my tour,” says
Capt Lloyd, “we would leave the base
in an armoured personnel carrier, car-
rying C-7 rifles. By the time my tour
was almost over, we were driving in an
SUV and carrying only pistols. I guess
that’s proof of what we accomplished
over there.”
Near the end of his tour, Capt Lloyd
lived in a house in the primarily Mus-
lim town of Bihac. There, he says,
people have come to depend on the UN
troops, and expect to see them each day.
Canadians are well-liked and respected.
Many local residents are also employed
19
at the Canadian base, acting as interpret-
ers, or working at the base canteen or
cafeteria. Overall, the people of Bihac
are friendly and welcoming.
Although personnel on UN tours are
on duty 24 hours a day and seven days
a week, Canadian soldiers do occasion-
ally have a chance to see the rest of
Bosnia and visit nearby European coun-
tries. They are also allowed two weeks
of leave to visit their families at home.
As the political situation in Bosnia
improves, the number of Canadian
troops in theatre is slowly being re-
duced. Eventually, the Bosnian govern-
ment will be capable of maintaining the
peace without the aid of the UN.
The present small size of the Cana-
dian military makes it likely that a mem- Canadian peacekeepers examining a cache of anti-personnel and anti-tank mines.
ber of the regular army will be called (Scott Lloyd photo).
upon to take part in a UN mission every
few years. While many soldiers find it in a real mission,” explains Capt Lloyd, sibility of a conflict, but here in Canada
difficult to leave their families, most are “not training, but actually doing.” Ca- they rarely get the chance to use their
still quite willing to serve overseas. nadian soldiers spend a great deal of skills. Many reservists also volunteer
“The best part about it is taking part their time training to prepare for the pos- for Peacekeeping missions, in order to
have this same opportunity.
Since his return from Bosnia, Capt
Lloyd has been stationed at CFB
Petawawa in Ontario, where he lives
with his wife and 1-year-old son. Al-
though he is half a country away, Lloyd
claims he never feels far from the
Miramichi. “The Miramichi has always
had a strong tradition of military ser-
vice,” he says. He adds that it is not
unusual to meet people from the
Miramichi on a base such as Petawawa
or even overseas in Bosnia. “I think
people forget how many of the guys they
went to high school with or hung around
Ben’s parking with are now in the mili-
tary.” Miramichiers can be found in
every branch of the service, in almost
every trade in the military. Although
Canada is no longer at war, those from
our own communities are providing aid
to people all over the world.

20
 HAPPENINGS
Chatham Public Library
Friday mornings at 10:15 - Preschool Storytime
Saturday, November 13, 3:00-4:00 - Hackmatack Book Club (for children
in grades 4-6)
Please call the library to register 773-6274
Library Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 1:00-8:00 Wednesday, Friday & Sat-
urday 10:00-5:00

Newcastle Public Library

Thursdays, 10:30 am – Preschool storytime for ages 3-5 years
Saturday, November 27th at 10:30 am – Hackmatack Reading Club, ages 9-
12 years
November 2nd – 13th – Remembrance Day Exhibit

For more information telephone the Newcastle Public Library at 622-2450

Healthy Active Living sponsors a free program to assist older persons in

keeping a balanced, healthy and productive lifestyle as they grow older.
For more information on how you or your group may join, contact Mary
Jane Hickey at 778-8202.

If you are a non-profit or charitable organization,

Miramichi Monthly can help publicize your event.
Space is limited so please fax or email your information early.
Email: editor@fareasterner.com
Fax: (506) 778-2491

21

By Christine Davison
Scorpio is everywhere this month- mysterious and intense. Keep
in mind the sage advice, “to forgive and forget” and keep pa-
tient, especially around the 11th, when those icy, suspicious
thoughts may be at their peak. As the temperatures begin to
drop, why not try to put all of those passionate energies to good
use?
st th
Aries (21 March – 20 April) Try to keep up a healthy rou-
tine at work this month. A new regimen of diet and exercise
might lift your spirits and put you on the right path. Your work-
mates will hold you in high regard, as a result.
Taurus (21st April – 21st May) This month you’ll charm every-
one you meet. Whatever it is you do just seems to earn you
more and more attention and admirers. Focus on beautifying
yourself and your surroundings.
Gemini (22nd May – 21st June) Your intuition is powerful, and
should be listened to. You’re drawn to the occult and hidden
things. Older women, inheritances and investments are a pri-
mary focus this month for you as well. You may recover some-
thing you’d thought was lost forever.
Cancer (22nd June – 22nd July) Past karma has come to haunt.
This would be a good time to focus on self-improvement and
mending past wrongs. You’ll be well rewarded if you do so. It’s
also a good time to travel, and explore. Let yourself try some-
thing new.
Leo (23rd July – 23rd August) You’ve a bevy of admirers and
friends this month, especially when it comes to your work. Your
22
warm and generous nature shows through, and people love you
for it. Expect this extra recognition to earn you rewards.
Virgo (24th August – 22nd September) Music and friendship:
you’ll want to be out and about. Certain current social issues
may weigh heavily on your mind. Share your inventive ideas
with others; they’ll thank you for it.
Libra (23rd September – 23rd October) You’ve had several
conflicts as of late, but have escaped relatively unscathed. It’s
almost as if someone or something has been watching over you.
Keep that temper in check and feel safe and secure knowing
that good luck is just ahead.
Scorpio (24th October – 22nd November) Things once hidden
will come to light. It almost seems as if there are new secrets to
uncover wherever you go. Strong passions ignite. Illumination.
Sagittarius (23rd November – 21st December) Don’t let those
dark thoughts cloud your visions. Focus on family, friends, and
pets and you’ll see where true happiness is. Self-discovery and
joy.
Capricorn (22nd December – 20th January) Share your fame
and fortune with those whom you love and who love you. It’s a
good time to spend some money on necessary repairs to your
home. Create and redecorate.
Aquarius (21st January – 18th February) It’s almost as if you’re
reading people’s minds this month, Aquarius. Pay close atten-
tion to your dreams as they may reveal the future to you. Friends
and family see you in a new light.
Pisces (19th February – 20th March) It is a time of new innova-
tions and creative endeavours. Put those ideas to work. Others
may see you as eccentric, but be assured it’s actually just your
ingenuity shining through. Invent!
Lucky numbers for November are: 9, 12, 13, 34, 37, 41.
If you are interested in
arranging for a personal star
chart, you can contact
Christine via email at
christine@fareasterner.com.