Elementary Christmas Colouring Contest Winners

Elementary Christmas Concert 2014

Star Athletes of Blackville School for December

High School Boys: Josh Underhill

"Josh is a very good athlete, a good team leader and has great sportsmanship!" said coach Loretta Gorbett about Josh concerning his leadership, game play and attitude on and off the court. Josh has been an integral part of the High School Boys Basketball team since Grade 9 and now in Grade 11 is the starting point guard and hardly comes off the court. Josh also plays hockey and football outside of school.

High School Girls: Abby Donovan

"Abby has great work ethic and an awesome attitude," said coach Matthew Sturgeon about Abby's playing and attitude not only on the court, but off the court as well. Abby spends a fair amount of time on the court, despite only being in Grade 10. Abby looks forward to being a key figure in the basketball teams hierarchy for the remainder of her high school career. Abby also plays hockey and soccer.
                               

Middle School Boys: Denver Donovan

When asked about Denver Donovan's efforts with the middle school basketball team, coaches Josh Underhill and Connor Duffy said that "Denver is a really hard working kid. He listens very well and is a monster around the rim." Denver is a senior player on the basketball team seeing that he is in grade 8 and is looking forward to being on the senior boys team next year when he makes the jump to high school. Denver also plays hockey, soccer and volleyball.

Middle School Girls: Tori Sullivan

"She always keeps the team motivated, and she is kind to her teammates. She is an overall great athlete!" said coach Jessica Munn. Tori is a senior member of the middle school girls basketball team seeing she is in Grade 8, and plays a major leadership role on the team for the younger players. Tori also plays soccer and hockey.

Compiled by Larissa Bryenton, Graham Manderville, and Ashley Vickers

                                              

Elementary Christmas Concert 2014

KH & KN presenting their "Christmas Chant"

Blackville Elementary grades K to five had their annual Christmas Concert which was held in the cafeteria on December 16.

There was a huge turn out with many parents and people from the village who came to watch. MC's Jorja Donovan and Cohen Munn were a huge hit with their humour and great presentation of the classes from K to 5.

A majority of songs were sung including "Reindeer Love to Boogie" which was sung by KH and KN. Also 3TM did a great job with their song "Nuttin' for Christmas". Grade 1C sang "Reindeer Pokey" followed by Grade 3M singing "Feliz Navidad" and their intro saying "Merry Christmas" in different languages.

To view more pictures of the Elementary Christmas Concert click here!

By Ashton O'Donnell      
Photos by Jules Keenan

Band and Choir Night 2014

Elementary Choir 

Blackville School held their annual Band and Choir night. It took place in the school cafeteria on December 9.

The evening featured the Elementary Choir, School Girls Choir and the Blackville School Jazz Band/9T Band class. The MC's were Vice Principal Pamela Underhill and Principal Rodney Buggie.

Blackville School Girls Choir 

During the concert the audience heard "S.A.N.T.A" and "Ebenezer Scrooge" sung by the Elementary Choir, and "Carol of the Bells" and "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" from the School Girl's Choir.

The Blackville School Jazz Band/9T Band class played "Frosty the Snowman" and "Feliz Navidad." 

To view more pictures from Band and Choir night 2014 click here!

By Ashton O'Donnell
Photos by Noah Donovan

School's In Podcast for December 12, 2014

Hosts Leah Hennessey and Ashton O'Donnell share news from Blackville School for the week of December 12, 2014.  School's In podcast are heard on Life Radio Friday evenings.  Podcast is edited by Perry-Jay Peterson.

Tales From The Borderlands: Zer0 Sum Review

metro.co.uk

Embrace the chaotically hilarious world of Pandora once again in the new episodic graphic adventure game based on the Borderlands series in Tales From the Borderlands.  The game is developed by Telltale Games in partnership with Gearbox Software and 2K Games, featuring voices from Chris Hardwick as Vaughn,  and Patrick Warburton as your nemesis Vasquez.  Episode one of Tales From the Borderlands is named 'Zer0 Sum' and was released November 25, 2014 on PC, Xbox 360, Xbox One, PS3, and PS4.


Tales From the Borderlands: Zer0 Sum puts you in the lives of Rhys (voiced by Troy Baker) and Fiona (voiced by Laura Bailey).  Rhys is a normal Hyperion employee who works with his best friend Vaughn, and is about to receive a promotion in the company.  Suddenly you learn that Vasquez, (who is one of those co-workers that you hate) kills the former boss and promotes himself to be your new boss.  Rhys and Vaughn embark on a journey to Pandora to screw over one of Vasquez's business deals, so that you can gain your promotion you truly deserved.  On the other hand, Fiona is a con-artist living on Pandora with her sister Sasha, who were taught by their adoptive mentor, Felix.  Rhys and Fiona get mixed into each others lives when they come to find out that the deal Fiona was about to rip was the deal that Rhys was about to go through with.  Rhys, Vaughn, Fiona and Sasha then set off to retrieve their stolen money from the leader bandit Bossanova.  This sends the group through a crazy journey into the monstrous world of Pandora.

Tales From the Borderlands: Zer0 Sum is the first instalment of the very first season of the newly loved series.  Telltale Games are known for their outstanding work on their other projects such as The Walking Dead Season 1 & 2, The Wolf Among Us, and their newly released Game of Thrones series.  As far as episodic games go Telltale Games is the master of creating them, and they certainly don't disappoint with Tales From the Broderlands.

twodashstash.com

The story of Tales From the Borderlands is without a doubt hilarious and super addictive. Each episode is approximately two and a half hours in length, and the time will fly by without even noticing.  All the game play mechanics are executed perfectly like the transitions between dialogue choices and action sequences. Although there are some rare occasions where the game will drop frames or even freeze for not even a second. The original Borderlands series is a full out first person shooter, and this take on Borderlands allows the player to get more of a story experience rather than focus on nonstop action which is nice.  I can tell from experience that the Tales From the Borderlands seems to run more smoothly on next-gen (Xbox One & PS4 & PC), rather than current-gen (Xbox 360 & PS3).  Another great feature added to Tales From the Borderlands is the fact that the actual choices you pick literally happen, and the crucial choices result in more intense and explosive events.

At first, I thought that Telltale Games would have a tough time creating an episodic adventure game out of the Borderlands series, but they sure nailed it.  Any Borderlands fan must play this game because it is going to be an awesome journey through out the rest of the season.  I've also been told that people who aren't that big into Borderlands will enjoy this game, and I don't disagree with this statement.  Tales From the Borderlands blew me away with the things they were able to alter from the original series.  They are able to set the stage perfectly for the next episode, which will leave you in wonder of what is in store for you during the next episode.  Needless to say, Tales From the Borderlands is a must buy, and is personally my favorite Telltale Games made to date.

 by Brody Nash

School's In Podcast for December 5, 2014

Hosts Leah Hennessey and Ashton O'Donnell share news from Blackville School for the week of December 5, 2014.  School's In podcast are heard on Life Radio Friday evenings. Podcast is edited by Perry-Jay Peterson.

Peoples Picks (Dec.1-5 )

Student of the week is Larissa Bryenton. Larissa is from Blackville and enjoys playing volleyball and working in her spare time. Larissa's favourite sport is volleyball. Congratulations, Larissa!

Teacher of the Week is Mr. Norton. Mr. Norton is from Boiestown and obtained his education through the University of New Brunswick and has been teaching for 11 years. Mr. Norton's favourite subject to teach is physics. Congratulations, Mr. Norton!

Staff of the Week is Jamie McNeil. Jaime likes to spend time with her family in her spare time and is from Blackville. Jaime has been working at Blackville with the cafeteria staff for six years. Congratulations, Jaime!

Compiled by Trent Thibodeau and Noah Hallihan

Viewpoint: Fly Fishing Club

Upcoming Christmas Events

Christmas Chaos Week

December 15 to 19

Monday- Jersey Day

Tuesday- Toque Day

Wednesday- Ugly Christmas Sweater Day

Thursday- Greed & Red Day

Friday- PJ Day

Dates to Remember...

December 9th- Band & Choir Night

December 16th- Elementary Christmas Concert

December 19th- Last Day before Christmas Break

Movie Night: 

December 4th at Blackville School. 

Cost- $5- includes movie, popcorn, and kool-aid jammers, there will be extra kool-aid jammers for sale $1.00 each

6:00 to 7:15- grades K-4 Movie: Elf on the Shelf and Smurfs Christmas

7:30 to 9:00- grades 5-8 Movie: Home Alone

Elementary Christmas Concert: 

The Blackville School K-5 Christmas Program will be presented on Tuesday, December 16, 2014 in the school cafeteria. There will be two performances of the program, the first at 9:00 a.m and the second at 10:30 a.m

Elementary Drama: 

Elementary Drama Production of "The Last Stop Before Christmas" will be at 6:00pm on Wednesday December 10th. Storm Date TBA. Admission- $3

Middle School Drama: is pleased to present their holiday production, "The Snow Show" on December 17, 7:30 pm at Blackville School. Tickets are $5

Christmas Dinners:

December 9th- Elementary Dinner $6 (storm date is December 10th)

December 10th- Middle School and High School $6.50 (storm date is December 11th)

Christmas Concert News:

Blackville School will be presenting its Choir and Band Christmas Concert on Tuesday, December 9, 2014 at 7:00 pm in the school cafeteria. (Storm Date- Wednesday, December 10/14) This concert will feature performances from the Blackville Elementary Choir, the Blackville School Jazz Band along with the grade 9T Instrumental class, and some vocal/instrumental solos and duets. Admission is at the door: adults $5.00   Students $2.00. Beverages, fudge, and tickets on a 50/50 draw will be available for sale at the canteen during the intermission. Choir and Band participants should be in the cafeteria on the night of the concert by 6:40 pm so they can tine and do a sound check. 

** December 15-19 students are encouraged to bring in winter clothing to their homeroom classes, if they can. All clothing will be donated to the local community outreach centre. 

On December 4th,  there will be a movie night here at the school
On December 5th, High School will be having their Christmas formal from 8:15 to 10:45 pm

On December 11th, Middle School will be having their Christmas formal

December 19th will be last day of classes for everyone, it will be a full day of classes!!

School Closure due to Weather:

Number for the weather line in 

Miramichi area is 778-SNOW (7669)

Opinion: Dress Code

We all have different ways to express ourselves, whether it is with music, opinions and even our clothing. You are your own "you," and no one can change that. Except when you walk into a school and you have to follow a "dress code." Many people have different opinions on this and it is one of the most talked about topics in high school, especially with high school girls.

In my opinion, I think that dress code doesn't allow people to express who they are, but then again there is a limit and people should know where to stop because they have gone too far. I think that a dress code applies more to girls because boys don't "reveal" themselves as many girls would. Also, some people have different views. Some girls feel more comfortable in a T-shirt and jeans while other girls like to express themselves more with a low cut shirt and skirt- just because they feel comfortable in it. I also think that dress code limits what people can wear and causes girls to feel self conscious about what they wear just so they aren't revealing themselves.

There is a limit, and you should dress to show that you have respect for yourself, but you should be able to express who you are too. Some people like to express themselves by their clothing.  To get some other opinions other than mine, I asked other students what they thought of the dress code. Here is what they had to say.

Gina Keenan (9U): "I think that the dress code is stupid. It shames girls of their bodies because we're forced to conceal everything."

Leah Hennessy (12U): "My personal opinion on dress code is that yes it can suck not being able to wear certain clothes in the summer when it is hot outside when you wish that you could be wearing lighter clothes, but at the same time I don't think I would want to see girls walking around showing their three B's. I also don't think that the girls dress code is stricter than the guys."

I couldn't agree more with Gina's opinion as it echoes the view of many female students about the dress code. We should all be able to show our individuality when we want to - no matter what the situation. I think that girls seem sexualized by dress code because they are forced to wear what is "permitted" on the school property to cover themselves up. But, then again like I said there is a certain extent to what we wear at school because you don't want to be showing off things others don't want to see.

Recently high school students in Fredericton have protested high school dress codes because they want to express themselves. They want to wear what they choose and not hide their bodies and wear clothing to please others. Also, check out the side panel of the Blackville Talon and give your opinion on whether you believe in the school's dress code or not.

By Ashton O'Donnell

School's In Podcast for November 21, 2014

 Host Leah Hennessy shares news from Blackville School for the week of November 21, 2014.  School's In podcast are heard on Life Radio friday evenings.  Podcast edited by Perry-Jay Peterson.

Assassin's Creed Unity Review

wall.alphacoders.com

Through fear, crime, betrayal, and bloodshed, experience the newest extension to one of the most well known major action-adventure franchises today. Assassin's Creed Unity has something for everyone's inner assassin. Ubisoft and Ubisoft Montreal, have done it once again, they have managed to make their seventh instalment to the Assassin's Creed series and it surely lives up to its predecessor Assassin's Creed IV: Black Flag. Directed by Alexandre Amancio and written by Travis Stout, Assassins Creed Unity hooks you in as soon as you start the game. Assassins Creed Unity was released November 11th, 2014, and is available on PS4, Xbox One, and PC.



Assassin's Creed Unity puts you in the life of Arno Dorian (voiced by Dan Jeannotte) a native Frenchman, son of an Assassin, set during the eve of the French Revolution in Paris. After the death of his father and being blamed for the murder of his adoptive father, Arno sets out to become a member of the Brotherhood of Assassins, where he slowly rises through the ranks. Driven by revenge and the will to save Paris, Arno sets out to seek the truth during this tragic period in history.

Assassins Creed Unity was the latest Ubisoft product created with the AnvilNext game engine, with new implements that will change the way you play. One of the newest additions is the Phantom Blade, which replaces the second Hidden Blade from previous Assassin Creed's. This weapon allows you to kill stealthy from a distance. It is a blade, attached to a crossbow type mechanism that allows you to shoot knives at people, to kill without being noticed. Since staying in the shadows is a major part of how you play through the game, this weapon comes in handy in tougher missions.


Another huge difference is the addition of the "Parkour Up" and "Parkour Down" mechanics. These new abilities allow the player to easily scale up and down (hence the name "Parkour Up & Down") buildings and obstacles. This gives the free running element have much more flexibility within Assassin's Creed. This aspect makes the game feel much more fluent and not as slow as the previous games. Another smaller addition to the game is that the world of Paris is huge, and allows you to roam to and from different districts while many in game activities appear like; fist fights, chasing a pick-pocket, or just simply solving a murder mystery. The last big addition to the game they implemented was the co-operative multiplayer, which allows you to freely roam Paris with your friends, or do missions and heists if that's more your style.

Many of the major aspects of Assassin's Creed Unity are executed excellently, but there are always some flaws in every creation. So far, from my experience with the storyline, I am really enjoying it but I find some things could be explained a little better before the missions are started. The voice acting is spot on in my opinion; all the voices are different and it's hard to find similarities in the sound of the characters which is an awesome aspect to the game.

Most of the gameplay mechanics within the game are great, and make you truly feel like an assassin the entire time. Although there are some bugs, mostly with NPC (non-playable characters) walking through buildings and obstacles, or standing on other characters. Also sometimes the costumes, hair, and weapons of some characters will become wonky, and might also cause the frame rate to drop, not drastically, but enough to notice it for a second. Even with the flaws, all the other gameplay aspects allow the player to feel more like an assassin than ever before in any other Assassin's Creed to date.

Assassin's Creed Unity really gives you a grip on life within the French Revolution, while telling a gripping tale about rising above revenge and thinking more about the innocent, rather than yourself. Assassin's Creed hasn't been known for recreating the exact moments from that time period, mostly because they add the Brotherhood of Assassins into the time eras, causing some events to have some twists, which play out well. Assassin's Creed Unity brings new tech and new elements that will change the series for the better in the long run. Assassin's Creed Unity is definitely a must buy this holiday season. Always remember the Brotherhood code; "We work in the dark to serve the light. We are Assassins."


by Brody Nash

Star Athletes of Blackville School

 High School Boys - Dylan Storey

"He's been consistent, dedicated and works hard in games and practices," said Coach Rodney Buggie about Dylan concerning his efforts with the Senior Boys soccer team and his place in their quest for the provincial banner. Dylan is not only the goalkeeper for the Senior Boys soccer team, but he is also a crucial part of the Senior Boys Basketball team. Outside of school, Dylan likes to play any type of pick up sports including outdoor basketball and road hockey.

Middle School Boys - Denver Donovan

"Denver shows a 100% effort day in and day out, and works hard every game," said Coach DJ Mason about Denver and his contribution to the Middle School boys soccer team. Denver put in a great effort in the last few games of the boys season, scoring six goals in two games. Denver is also a main part of the Middle School boys volleyball team. Meanwhile outside of school, Denver plays hockey and road hockey. 

 High School Girls - Felicia Stockless

"Felicia was a great asset to the team this year, she was always giving 100% and she had a great attitude and willingness to learn," said coach Ronda Vickers about Felicia when asked what kind of a player Felicia was. She was a very valued player despite this being her first year playing soccer and her first year at Blackville School. Outside of school Felicia also enjoys playing hockey.

Middle School Girls - Laura Colford
"Laura is a great athlete and always puts forth a great effort during practices and games. She is a great asset to the middle school girls soccer team and always has a great attitude and keeps the team in high spirits," said Coach Jessica Munn about Laura and her work with the Middle School girls soccer team. Laura was a great team player, and barely came off the field throughout the season. Outside of school Laura also plays hockey and volleyball.

Compiled by Graham Manderville, Larissa Bryenton and Ashley Vickers

School's In Podcast for November 14, 2014

Host Leah Hennessy shares news from Blackville School for the week of November 14, 2014. School's In podcast are heard on Life Radio Friday evenings.  Podcast edited by Perry-Jay Peterson.

Remembrance Day Colouring Contest 2014

Take Your Kid To Work Day

Delanie Coughlan at Home Hardware

Grade nine students at Blackville High School took part in, "Take Your Kid To Work Day," on Wednesday, November 5, 2014. The students went to various work places to be an employee for the day, and get a sense of what it is like to be in the work force.

Each student went to their preferred work place setting. The students learn about what type of tasks are done on a daily basis as well as participate in the daily tasks that typically take place at the establishment.

Mackenzie Stewart at Valu Foods

Janet Jardine went to work at McEvoy Insurance, Delanie Coughlan went to Home Hardware and Madison Underhill as well as Mackenzie Stewart went to Value Foods for the day. Other places that the students went to are the Blackville RCMP as well as the Adult Learning Center.

By Ashley Vickers

The Teddy Bear Project

Blackville School kindergarten students

Blackville school is partnered up with Instituto Tecnológico Avanzado en Educación del Sureste in Mexico for the Teddy Bear Project. This project, organized through the iEarn Collaboration Centre, involves Mrs. Norton and Mrs. Hallihan's Kindergarten classes as well as a class from Mexico.

The purpose of the Teddy Bear Project is to have students foster understanding and knowledge about other countries and cultures.

Left to Right: Ava Underhill and
Wilson Jardine

Mrs. Norton said the Blackville School got involved because it is something different to do and it is something for the kids to be excited about as they learn about a different culture.

"We will be taking the bear on trips to learn about cultural things that we do here that they may not do there. For example, one of the students will be able to take the teddy bear to a hockey game which they would not experience in Mexico," explained Mrs. Norton.

In the near future, there is a possibility that the classes may get a chance to communication online through video chat. The teacher from Mexico sends an e-mail to Mrs. Norton weekly to let her know how the teddy bear is doing.

Left to Right: Kiara Dunnett, Brenden Dunnett,
Brandee Gillespie and John Patrick McCormack

They received Mexico's teddy bear on Friday October 24. They emailed Mexico to let them know it has arrived and also how it was doing.

Mrs. Norton's and Mrs. Hallihan's students expressed excitement and enjoyment over having the teddy bear at the school, as well as learning about Mexico and Mexican culture.

By Mariah Hallihan

Dating Violence Presentation

Family Violence Outreach Coordinator Patty Michaud and Youth Care Worker students from NBCC Miramichi came to speak to high school students about Dating Violence on Wednesday November 13. They first showed a short slide show about dating violence and then they broke off into focus groups to ask questions and talk about dating violence.

From left to right: Michael Waugh, Alex Hallihan,
Larissa Bryenton, Moranda Frennette, Patty Michaud
 and NBCC Students from the Youth Care program

Remembrance Day Ceremony at Blackville School

Mersereau: We can't stray from honouring the past

A piece of the Berlin Wall that belongs to Mersereau

This past week I had the privilege of interviewing former army communications officer and Blackville native Warrant Officer Troy Mersereau. Son of Vera and Burton Mersereau and brother of elementary school teacher Twila Sturgeon.

Mersereau graduated from Blackville in 1986 alongside Blackville School's principal Rodney Buggie. He spent his youth in Blackville playing hockey and as a member of the Blackville Air Cadet squadron. He joined the army branch of the Canadian military in 1987 after working in Fredericton for a short while, trying to find his place in life.

Memorabilia from Mersereau's military career

Troy had a long and rewarding military career, having been stationed in numerous locations in Canada, including Petawawa and Kingston, Ontario and Edmonton, Alberta; he also was stationed in numerous places overseas including Germany, Syria, Israel and three tours in Bosnia. Some of the answers that are given in the interview below are paraphrased and are not direct quotes.

Q: Why did you join the military? What would recommend the military as a career path to a graduate of today?

A: The military was always an interest to me, it offered security, and a trade without taking the more typical route through university. I would recommend the military to a graduate of today; it presents numerous opportunities that are often unheard of in the civilian world. It's a totally different experience, and if you're looking for an adventure that is never a dull moment, then the military is the right fit for you.

United Nations Memorabilia 

Q:Would you change anything about the path you choose if you could do it over again?

A: Not at all. I went in with a good attitude and made the best of what it was. There were some times when it sucked beyond belief, but if you have a good attitude and make the most of the situation, it is not as bad as it seems, those are the times when memories are made.

Q: Next week we are celebrating Remembrance Day and as a teenager and a student, I know what it means to me, but as a member of the military, what does it mean to you? And the military in general?

Vimy Barrack memorial

A: To me it's really just a time to reflect on friendships and experiences that I had in the Canadian Forces. As for the military in general, it is held as a sacred day; it is often a tough day as well, remembering lost friends and just lost service members in general.

Q: What is the most memorable Remembrance Day ceremony you have participated in and why?

A: In grade 11, I actually laid a wreath at Blackville School as an air cadet, and I can still remember that ceremony distinctively. However, no matter where the ceremony is held - either here in Blackville or in Bosnia - they are just as important, and I remember them all.  

More military memorabilia 

Q: Is there any part of the Remembrance Day ceremony performed by the military that is different than one that civilians put on, for example like the one in Blackville? What part of the ceremony is the most special to you?

A: Ceremonies everywhere that are held, by either military or civilians, are very similar everywhere. They all take a moment to remember all the service members that are no longer with us. There is no part that is special to me, because the whole ceremony is special just like the day.

Q: This summer I had the opportunity to visit Juno Beach, Vimy Ridge and the Passchendale Battlefields do these places have any specific value to you? And what value do they have to the military as a whole?

Warrant Officer Mersereau at the
Blackville Remembrance Day Ceremony

A: I was stationed at the Vimy Barracks in Kingston for a period of time. Everything that we did in Kingston was tied back to Vimy Ridge; we would get talks about the men like Sir Arthur Currie and how we should strive to be that type of leader. To the military as a whole, Vimy Ridge was the first victory that Canada won by ourselves. We had no help; it was only Canadian boys on the battlefield that day for the Allies. Even though we were under British control, the Canadian military and really the country of Canada found its identity in that battle. Now Vimy is a massive glorified monument and we talk about it as a glorious battle and treasured spot in Canadian history, but to the men that actually fought the battle it was basically a place to go and die. It was not all bells and whistles, there was no glory in 1917.

Q: When we consider the recent attacks and deaths in Canada that have targeted our military what role do you think these recent actions have when it comes to the impact of why Remembrance Day is vital and important in the 21st century?

A: Concerning Remembrance Day I think that it will be a little more difficult in the areas that were affected by these attacks; however from a security perspective it will generate a lot more concerns that we have never really had to face before in Canada.

Q: Speaking as a former member of the military, what would you want today's youth to know about Remembrance day?

A: Remembrance Day has a very important place in Canadian society, and if we stray away from having ceremonies and honouring our past and present military service members then it will be very hard to get back to it.

It was truly an honour interviewing Mr. Mersereau. The stories that he had were truly incredible and I could sit and listen to him tell them all day. Every student and staff member thanks Mr. Mersereau for his service and thanks every former and present service member for there service as well. Without these brave men and women, we would not have the freedom and privileges that we have today and we must keep Remembrance Day a prominent day in our society in order to pay our respects and honour our military service members. Lest We Forget.

by Graham Manderville

Opinion: Remembrance Day

Every year on November 11 we remember those who fought for our country. We respect those who are still here with us today and also those who sacrificed their lives for us and this country. A country they loved and believed in so much, they fought to defend its values.

Here at Blackville School every year around Remembrance Day we always hold a service that takes place in the gym.  The ceremony features our choirs, band, readings from students between K to 12. It also includes  the wreath laying which includes each person from each grade to lay a wreath in remembrance of our soldiers that fought in the world wars. The wreath laying also includes members from our community, such as the local legion and the wreath is laid in memory of fallen soldiers. 

To show respect for our soldiers most people wear a poppy on our left sides over our hearts. This year it was noticed that more Canadians are wearing poppies which, in part, could be because of two soldiers who were recently killed here in Canada.  

Below are some thoughts from students who  went on a trip to Europe in June 2014. While they were there they got to visit the Canadian National Vimy Memorial in France that is dedicated to the memory of Canadian soldiers killed during the First World War. 

By Ashton O'Donnell 

I always held Remembrance Day in high regard, in my opinion it is one of the most important days in the calendar year. It's a time when we remember the men and women who sacrificed their lives  in order so that we could live in a free country.

High School students from Blackville School at Arc de Triumph 

This summer I got the opportunity to visit Juno Beach, Passchendaele and Vimy Ridge while on a trip to Europe. All of these locations are very prominent in Canadian History. Juno Beach was the Canadian designated beach in the D-Day landings, Passchendaele was a World War I battle that claimed over 15,000 Canadian lives, and of course Vimy Ridge was the first victory that the Canadian military got on its own.

Visiting these locations really made me realize just how much these men who fought during the first and second World Wars sacrificed to preserve our countries freedom. While at Vimy Ridge, we got to tour some of the underground tunnels which served as a home to many of the Canadian troops leading up to the actual attack on Vimy. I could not even imagine spending more than an hour in these tunnels, even the shortest person in our group had to duck sometimes to walk through doors or down hallways. Seeing these living condition and hearing the tour guide talk about how inhospitable these tunnels were in 1917 really opened my eyes to the sacrifices that these men made.

We visited many Canadian cemeteries as well on our trip through western Europe. The cemetery that really made me realize how lucky and proud I am to be Canadian was one of the Normandy cemeteries. Walking down the rows of graves and seeing the ages of some of the men that participated in the D-Day landings was incredible.

 I stumbled upon a headstone with the age 17 written on it and was dumbfounded for words. Our lives were so different. I wake up every morning knowing what the day will hold, and I know that I will wake up the next morning. However, this boy woke up not knowing what the day was going to hold, and praying that he lived long enough to wake up the next day.

Touring Vimy, Passchendaele, Juno Beach and all the surrounding cemeteries has given me stronger and deeper feeling of thankfulness for our veterans that served during WWI and II, Korea, Bosnia, the Middle East and really anywhere that the Canadian military has been. Because without their service, I know that I would not have the life that I have today. My trip to Europe has given me a better understanding of what these men went through and this in turn has increased my standing on Remembrance Day and its importance in our society.

By: Graham Manderville

Remembrance Day is a day every year where citizens across Canada join together to commemorate the brave acts of the soldiers who fought for our freedom.  Remembrance day has always been an important day to my family and me, because I've had many relatives who have fought over seas in certain conflicts.

It is a day when we extend our thanks to those who were lost in order to live the great lives that we all have today. This past summer I had the amazing opportunity of taking part in a Canadian Battlefield tour across Europe. We went to very well-known battlefields, cemeteries, and landmarks that were once populated with Canadian soldiers in conflict.

 It was a very touching experience knowing that soldiers have lost their lives right on the ground I was standing on. I had moments where I was proud because of the bravery that past Canadian soldiers had, but I also had moments of sadness when I realized how many young lives were lost. I was fortunate enough to visit Juno Beach, Passchendaele, Vimy region, Normandy region, and countless other well-known war-time landmarks.

My personal favourite part of the experience was the Vimy Ridge memorial. It was breathtakingly large and beautiful. I didn't realize the true size of the landmark until I was standing directly under its shadow. I was in awe for the most part of the trip because of the beautiful European scenery, and the Canadian history that surrounded me for the whole trip.

I consider myself tremendously lucky for being able to travel across the world to see a place that is held so high in Canadian regard. Many people dream of seeing some of the landmarks I visited. My trip to Europe made me appreciate remembrance day more, and I have a better respect for Canadian gains, and also, much more respect for the losses. I will always look back on the amazing trip that I was part of. 

By Noah Hallihan

Middle School Student of The Month

Middle School Student of the Month for 6D is Denver Jardine. Denver is a hard working student and especially kind and helpful towards others. Denver is also especially thoughtful in school. Congratulations, Denver!

Middle School Student of the Month for 7M is Brady Nash. Brady is especially kind and helpful towards others and is also very respectful. Brady has also been coming extra early for homeroom. Congratulations, Brady!







Middle School Student of the Month for 7W is Shana Jardine. Shana is a hard working student and shows great leadership skills in school. Shana is especially kind and helpful towards other students and has reached an academic achievement recently in school. Congratulations, Shana!








Middle School Student of the Month for 8O is Gabe Keenan. Gabe is very hard working and shows outstanding effort in school. Gabe has improved very much this year in academics. Congratulations, Gabe!








Middle School Student of the Month for 8M is Christopher Underhill. Christopher is a very hard working student and is especially kind and helpful towards others. Christopher shows outstanding effort in school and has reached an academic achievement recently. Christopher is also very thoughtful and shows respect for others as well. Congratulations, Christopher!

Halloween Colouring Contest Winners

School's In Podcast for October 31, 2014

Host Kelsey Keenan shares news from Blackville School for the week of October 31st, 2014. School's In podcast are heard on Life Radio Friday evenings.  Podcast edited by Perry-Jay Peterson.

Viewpoint: Halloween

People's Picks (27 - 31 Oct)

Student of the week is Kiefer Crawford. Kiefer is from Barnettville, and his favourite sport is hunting. Kiefer's favourite class is Drama and he also likes to hunt in his spare time. Congratulations, Keifer!

Teacher of the week is Mrs. Angela Moody. Mrs. Moody obtained her education at the University of New Brunswick, and she has been teaching for a total of 8 years. Her favourite subject to teach is Language Arts and she enjoys attending her children's sport events in her spare time. Congratulations, Mrs. Moody!

Staff of the week is Mrs. Pam Underhill. Mrs. Underhill obtained her education at the University of New Brunswick, and has been teaching for 29 years. Mrs. Underhill's favourite subject to teach is Language Arts and she enjoys walking or reading during her spare time. Congratulations, Mrs. Underhill!

Shannon MacLeod visits the Journalism 120 Class

Shannon MacLeod came to visit the Journalism 120 class Tuesday, October 28. She is a journalist and photographer from the Miramichi Leader and came to mainly talk about criminal and court reporting. 

Left to right: Leah Hennessy, Graham Manderville, Shannon MacLeod,
Ashley Vickers, Brody Nash and Mariah Hallihan 

People's Picks (Oct. 20-24)

The student of the week is Lincoln Colford. Lincoln is in kindergarten and is from the Rapids. Lincoln's favourite part of school is recess. Congratulations, Lincoln!










The teacher of the week is Mrs. Lori-Ann Curtis. Mrs. Curtis graduated from Saint Thomas University with her Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education, and she also graduated from the University New Brunswick with her Master of Education. Mrs Curtis's favourite class to teach is Language Arts, and she likes to sing and help out with choir in her spare time. Congratulations, Mrs. Curtis!


The staff of the week is Ms. Breau.  Ms. Breau is from Miramichi and has been teaching for 7 years now. She received her education from the University of New Brunswick. Ms. Breau enjoys spending what spare time she has with family. Congratulations, Ms. Breau!

Compiled by Trent Thibodeau and Dan Wilson

School's In Podcast for October 24, 2014

Host Leah Hennessy shares news from Blackville School for the week of October 24. School's In podcasts are heard on Life Radio , Friday evenings. Podcast edited by Perry Jay Peterson.

Opinion: Halloween, A Trick or a Treat?

Photo from http://morguefile.com/archive/#/?q=halloween

Some people do not celebrate Halloween for different reasons. Do you think Halloween is a holiday that everyone should celebrate? Do you enjoy or dislike Halloween?

Every year on October 31 we celebrate a holiday which we call Halloween. People celebrate Halloween by trick-or-treating or through Halloween parties, wearing costumes, carving jack o' lanterns, lighting fires, watching scary movies and listening to frightening stories, playing pranks and visiting haunted attractions. These Halloween activities make some people like Halloween but they are also activities that puts others off the idea of Halloween.

I think it is reasonable not to celebrate Halloween, because some people have personal reasons or even reasons that they are not willing to share with people about why (or why not) they celebrate Halloween. Others can be superstitious about things like the black cat for example, and the idea of Halloween just scares them.

If you had to ask me, I think that Halloween is more of a fun holiday then any of the other holidays, and it is also personally one of my favourites. It is nothing compared to Easter, Christmas or Thanksgiving- we do celebrate those in candy or activities, but none are like the activities that we would do on Halloween.

I find that Halloween is also a holiday that attracts mostly teenagers than any other age group- at least the trick part does. As we all know, teenagers love to have a good time, and Halloween is the perfect time to have fun. For example, some people take things way too far, such as tormenting the elders in the village that don't mean any harm to anyone. Some older people do not enjoy Halloween because of this. On the other hand, little children treat Halloween as a fun experience where they can dress up as their favourite movie character and go get free candy. We all know this because when you say the word treat a million little children get over excited.

One way that we could get more involved in the positive ways of Halloween are the activity we have here at school called "Trick or Peas". It is a great way to get involved in the community, school and even just have a positive out look on Halloween. You go door to door and ask for canned foods that we can use at school to send to our Food Bank and feed people in need. To get more information on "Trick or Peas" you can go to our High School Student Council.

Some people take part in the Halloween spirit, and others don't. Myself, I don't usually dress up on a dress up day or Halloween because I don't really like costumes. Although I don't dress up, it doesn't mean I don't have the Halloween spirit, it actually is one of my favourite holidays and I just choose to not dress up. To get some other people's opinions for the Blackville Talon I asked some of my Kindergarten co-op class a question to see what their view on Halloween was. The question I asked them was "Do you enjoy or dislike Halloween, and why?" here is what they had to say:

Kiara Dunnett (KN)- "I like Halloween because I get treats!"

Dallas Curtis (KN)- "I like Halloween because I like dressing up. My favourite costume is the Hulk."

I think that if you like Halloween then you can still go out and have a fun time but just make sure you keep in mind to have respect for others. Particularly those that may be frightened or if Halloween just isn't their thing.

Have a Happy Halloween and also put your input into the Halloween survey on the Blackville Talon!

By: Ashton O'Donnell 

Andy Thibodeau Presentation

Guest speaker Andy Thibodeau (top far right corner) with the Middle School WEB,
High School Boomerang and High School Student Council. 

Middle and High School students at Blackville School had a guest speaker on Wednesday, October 22. Andy Thibodeau is a motivational speaker and very comical. Both the students and teachers enjoyed his presentation that focused on being active caring members of the community and the importance of school involvement and spirit.

To see more photos from the Andy Thibodeau presentation today, click here!

Andy's Contact Information:

London, Canada

andypresentations.com

Facebook: Andy Thibodeau, Impact Speaker

youtube.com/andyspeaks

Photo taken by Riley Sherrard and Justin Donahue

Viewpoint: Hockey

School's In Podcast for October 17, 2014

Host Leah Hennessy shares news from Blackville School for the week of October 17. School's In podcasts are heard on Life Radio, Friday evenings. Podcast edited by Perry Jay Peterson.

Elementary Colouring Contest Winners

People's Picks (October 13-17)

The student of the week goes to Justin Donahue. His favourite class is Co-op. Water Polo is his favourite sport. He is from Blackville. In his spare time he likes to cruise around.

This week's teacher is Mr. Carter. He has been teaching for 12 years. His favourite subjects to teach are Journalism, English, and History. He went to university at UNB and St. Thomas for his Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education and Memorial University for his Master of Education.

The staff member of the week is Loretta Gorbett. Her favourite class is law. Loretta is from Blackville. In her spare time she enjoys coaching and traveling.

By Dan Wilson and Trent Thibodeau 

Dungarvon ATV Club Donates $1000 to Blackville School

Front Row: (left to right) Bailey Curtis, Camden Curtis, Derek Gilchrist, Brayden Duffy and Abigail McEvoy

Back Row: (left to right) Principal Mr. Buggie, Blackville Mayor Andrew Hawkes, Ted Corcoran (President of Dungarvon ATV Club), LeRoy Stewart (Director of Region 4 ATV Federation), Carla Allison (Events Coordinator Dungarvon ATV Club) and Len Allison (Executive Member)

(Missing- Milton Sullivan and Emery Brophy, executive members of the ATV Club)

Photo by Moranda Frennette