Connecting Albert County News - Connecting Albert County

The Road with Two Names

31/7/2026

Submitted by James Wilson, Contributing Author

Road names are usually something on which there is universal agreement and when that is not the case it hints at an interesting history waiting to be discovered. Such is the case with the Niagara Road, or as the locals know it, the Nigarry Road (Nigary? Nygary?).

The road with an identity crisis equally amuses and confounds those who first learn of it.

An obvious question emerges: how did we get here?

The answer to that question is a matter of debate whenever it is raised but I would like to examine four common theories.

Isaac & Blewett at Oulton Hall!

31/7/2026

Article & Image Submitted by Tim Isaac, Musician & Artist

No-one can describe a vibe quite like Jim Blewett:

‘Finally we’re going to play again with Sara, Ian and Chris.

We’ve been playing with a bunch of different cats this summer and really getting off on it. And we’re really looking forward to playing with this crew. They bring that steppy flat-out feel, and I love to watch Sara’s face as she plays and gets into it, man let me tell you. We’re going to be at Oulton Hall on Saturday Aug.29. It’s old school, we can’t play at the Harvey Hall right now so Oulton Hall is where shows are being held, so music is still alive in Albert County, thanks to the Harvey Hall volunteers. We really are looking forward to it and it’s gonna be a blast, so come on down to the country and check it out.’

Kiwanis Search for Members

30/7/2026

The Hillsborough Kiwanis has been in the community 80 years, and throughout that time has had lots of development and growth. We are growing again and are currently looking for new members!  

Come join our organization - all are welcome!

For more information, reach out to us via email at:

[email protected]

or

Find us on Facebook @hillsboroughkiwaniscommunitycenter

CAC's Spotlight on Local Non-Profits  More Than a Food Bank: How the Shepody Food Bank is Nourishing Albert County

29/6/2026

 As told to Melody Land, CAC Coordinator, by Lynne Greenblatt,  on behalf of the SFB Board of Directors

There is something special about Albert County. When neighbours are struggling, someone is always ready to lend a hand. Whether it's clearing a driveway after a snowstorm, organizing a community fundraiser, or dropping off a meal for someone in need, compassion has long been one of this region's defining characteristics.

That same spirit is at the heart of the Shepody Food Bank.

For years, the volunteer-run organization has quietly provided food and hope to individuals and families throughout lower Albert County. While many people think of a food bank as simply a place to pick up groceries, the Shepody Food Bank sees its role as much more than that.

Its mission is simple but powerful: to increase access to healthy food for everyone in a way that maintains dignity, builds healthier communities, and fosters respect for diversity and inclusion.

As the cost of living continues to rise across New Brunswick, that mission has never been more important.

2026 AGM - A New Chapter for the Federation

29/6/2026

Submitted by Lise Guignard, Office Manager, New Brunswick Senior Citizens’ Federation (NBSCF)

On Tuesday, May 19th, 2026, the New Brunswick Senior Citizens’ Federation held its 58th Annual General Meeting in the Legends Room at the Moncton Coliseum. Members from across the province gathered to review the past year, discuss key issues affecting seniors, and help shape the Federation’s future. We were honoured to welcome several distinguished guests, including Minister for Seniors Lyne Chantal Boudreau, who shared remarks and reaffirmed support for New Brunswick seniors. Delegates also heard from Marty Kingston, representing the City of Moncton, and Member of Parliament Ginette Petitpas-Taylor, who emphasized the importance of continuing to advocate for older adults across our province.

Committee reports reflected another busy and productive year. Highlights included continued support to members and clubs, efforts to strengthen Federation’s financial sustainability through sponsorships, fundraising and membership growth, ongoing advocacy work with government on seniors’ issues, and participation in Stronger Care for Seniors: A Long-term Care Plan for New Brunswick. Members also learned that the Federation’s project Seniors Standing Strong: Sessions on Abuse and Exploitation received funding approval through the New Horizons for Seniors Program. Delegates reviewed resolutions and discussed priorities for the year ahead.

One of the highlights of the day was the election of a new President.

Following the completion of two separate terms by President Alphonse Dionne, Don LeBlanc was elected by acclamation to lead the Federation into its next chapter.

The Federation extends sincere thanks to our guest speakers, Board of Directors, committee members, office staff, volunteers, sponsors, exhibitors, interpretation and audiovisual teams, Moncton Coliseum staff, and especially our members for helping make the day such a success. As we begin this new chapter, we look forward to continuing to work together to improve the quality of life of seniors throughout New Brunswick. ......................................................................................

Lise Guignard is former teacher, daycare director and community volunteer, she enjoys promoting healthy aging, and lifelong learning. She is passionate about helping seniors stay informed, connected, engaged, and active in their communities.

The Molly Kool AiR 2026

29/6/2026

Submitted by Sam Bergamo, Residency Co-ordinator, Friends of Fundy

The Molly Kool Artist in Residency (AiR) has opened its doors and is currently hosting Jill McNair from June 29th to July 4th! Come participate in Fundy Signals where Jill invites visitors to look a little closer at the natural world within the Fundy Region. Inspired by the colourful signal flags used by mariners, participants will create their own "Fundy Signal" using shapes and patterns inspired by their time in the Park - whether that's a fern, a bird track, shell, wave or tree line. Jill’s studio at the Molly Kool Centre will be open from 12-4pm daily during her week residency.

Ronda Cynthia Fraser will be in residence from July 6th to July 11th. After retiring, Ronda was driven to creative pursuits. She was invited to a show at Moonbrook Manor in Riverside-Albert and loves the area. She makes her work out of found objects, and every piece has an amusing punch line. We’re excited to see what she brings to our community from her backyard to share her unique perspective on local history!

From July 18th to July 26th, the Molly Kool Centre will welcome Emily Jane Kelly. Originally from PEI, Emily uses rock pigments to creatively present the diversity of our environment. Her art ranges from realistic to abstract and focuses on stopping in spaces people normally move through, giving time and attention to places and things that are often overlooked despite their beauty. The Molly Kool Centre will be open throughout Emily’s time with us from 1:30 - 4:30pm each afternoon. Drop in to experience how Emily transforms rock into beautiful creations.

From July 28th to August 6th Ann Piché will be taking up residency at the Molly Kool Centre. Ann is a photo-based artist in Ottawa, Canada. A former Royal Canadian Mounted Police electronic technician and the first woman in that role, Ann built a career inside systems defined by precision and measurable outcomes. This experience continues to shape her practice. Ann uses abstraction and experimental techniques to explore the anxiety we can feel when facing the unfamiliar. She builds her images in the camera, using light and motion, not software. The Fundy tidal flats, a landscape that vanishes and returns twice a day, are a natural subjectfor an artist whose work lives at the edge of the explainable.

The Molly Kool Centre has long been home to community events. This developing residency will offer new ways to experience the Fundy region and further strengthen communities, celebrate culture, and care for the land and waters that we all share. As the residency evolves over time organizers hope it will continue to grow as a meaningful platform for artists, residents, and visitors alike, carrying forward the legacy of Molly Kool through creativity, stewardship, and shared experiences rooted in the Bay of Fundy.

Image and caption credit to Ronda Cynthia Fraser

Ambulance New Brunswick, Tele-Care 811 Launching Shared-Response System June 09, 2026, Department of Health, Department of Justice and Public Safety

28/6/2026

FREDERICTON (GNB) – A new data-driven initiative by Ambulance New Brunswick and Tele-Care 811 will help ensure paramedics and ambulances are available for urgent and life-threatening situations while helping connect others to the most appropriate care for their needs. The shared-response system will launch this month.

“This is another example of how we are building a more connected and efficient health-care system that improves access to care for New Brunswickers,” said Health Minister John Dornan. “By better integrating Ambulance New Brunswick and Tele-Care 811, patients with non-urgent health concerns can be connected to the services best suited to their needs while helping preserve ambulance resources for emergency situations.”

Fundy Curling Club Thanks Volunteer!

28/6/2026

FCC wishes to thank Sara Keirstead, who through her volunteer efforts this past season coaching with the Little Rocks program, was able to also secure a $750 grant from TD. This program rewards the efforts of volunteerism in the community and Sara chose to put her time into the FCC Little Rocks program.

This, of course, is a double win for us! Thank you to Sara and TD for your generous donation!

The Mastodon has Arrived but Fundraising Continues at ACM

28/6/2026

Submitted by Dawne McLean, ACHS President
The Mastodon Exhibit Celebration was an exciting evening! During the opening remarks, ACHS President, Dawne McLean, announced that partial funding for this new natural history exhibit was received from the province through the Dept. of Tourism, Heritage and Culture, Archaeology – Heritage which was greatly appreciated.

The NB Museum was thanked for their “in-kind” support of the exhibit with the temporary loan of the replica mastodon skull, tusk and bones seen in the display case which are an important part of the exhibit. Sponsorship was received from the UNESCO Fundy Biosphere Region & Stonehammer Geopark, as well as Geldarts Warehouse and Cartage.

After introductions, the following invited guests offered words: MLA Albert-Riverview, Sherry Wilson; Fundy Albert Mayor, Jim Campbell; Fundy Albert Deputy Mayor, Loretta Elderkin; Councillor Ward 5, Rebecca Davis; Dominique Gelinas, Acting Manager of Museum Services, New Brunswick Museum, CAC Coordinator, Melody Land; and Guest of Honour, Robin Hanson, the well known NB artist who created the impressive life like sculpture of the Mastodon for the exhibit.

The appetizer reception, live music, auction, scavenger hunt, and mastodon trivia were great fun!

The “mastodon square draw” has squares still left to purchase for $20 -a chance to win 500$! To buy a square in the “Mastodon raffle” contact the museum 506-734-2003. When all mastodon squares are sold, the Draw for $500 will take place!! So buy your square(s) now!

Fundraising continues for the Mastodon Exhibit to add interpretation and surrounding panels. Donations over $20 receive CRA tax receipts.

Exciting 2026 Season at Albert County Museum!

28/6/2026

Submitted by Dawne McLean, ACHS President

On May 23, the kick-off event of the 50th Anniversary celebration of the ACHS Quilt Show was the Official Opening of the “Barn Quilt Trail” in Fundy Albert, the first in this region.

Through a partnership with ACTA/Fundy Tourism, the 2026 Locator Map includes a panel with a map of the ‘Barn Quilt Trail’ with the address locations of the installed Barn Quilts.

Barn Quilt Trails are tourist attractions in many regions!

When driving by the Museum, have a “look-see” at the new “50th Anniversary Barn Quilt” installed on the Community Hall to the left of last year’s “Wild Goose Chase” barn quilt.

June 6: Opening Celebration of Mastodon Exhibit in Exhibition Hall was a fantastic event!
June 13: The “Golden Tea” was delightful by enjoying desserts, live music and socializing!
July 1: Canada Day Celebration– Quilt Theme arts and crafts, 50 Red & White Quilt Blocks display 10:00 am – 5:00pm - Free admission! Canada Day Cake!
July 4: RB Bennett Celebration Day Featuring a full afternoon programme. 10:00 – 5:00pm Free admission!
July 16 – 18: The 50th ACHS Quilt Show & Sale in Community Hall, 10am to 5pm daily $3 entry fee or Free with paid admission to Museum during those dates.
July 15: Recognition Evening of “50 Golden Years of Quilting”

Starts 6:30pm in Community Hall; then 7:15pm in Court House – Special Quilt Exhibits