I was saddened to hear of the passing of Elizabeth Hahn (nee Gravelle) of Otter Lake. Elizabeth was the former EQUITY correspondent of Otter Lake. On a few occasions, we had the chance to meet and chat and we would call each other. She was a lovely person. Our heartfelt sympathy, thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends at this sad time.
The Pembroke Diocese, fellow clergy and the faithful were saddened to hear of the passing of Rev. P. Brady McNamara. Our heartfelt sympathy, thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this difficult time.
On Saturday afternoon . . .
at approximately 2:45 p.m. the Waltham Fire Department was dispatched to a building fire on ch. Rivière Noire.
The iconic Black River Inn, a local landmark for more than 100 years has passed into history. The building was destroyed by the fire leaving only the light gray smoke drifting off into the blue winter sky. All the memories of generations of patrons who stopped by to enjoy the beverages and meals, all the laughter, stories and the characters who were part of the life that seemed so relaxed and rural. The beauty of the Black River flowing only meters from the front doors, the majestic mountains rising sharply above to the north west. This is all part of a local history that runs deep in the minds and hearts of so many who have spent their summers and autumns visiting and living in this little place that time has forgotten. The roads here are winding dirt roads that cling precariously to the mountain side, while travellers are looking straight down at the river rushing by. There is no electricity, water or sewage, and those who choose to live here are off the grid by choice. There is no cell phone service, and some have Internet by satellite only. But the whole point of the Black River experience is to leave the modern world behind and find joy in the simple basic moments.
The Black River Inn was a catalyst that brought all kinds of people together to enjoy a beverage, conversation and uncluttered unscheduled living. The cottagers remain, the summer tubers drifting down the ancient Black River on hot sunny summer days remain but the Black River Inn is no more. Perhaps a new establishment will arise from its ashes or something completely different will take its place. Regardless, the beauty of this river valley is timeless and will always be an attraction.
A cheery hello to Fr. Justin Bertrand, of Our Lady Of Martyrs Parish in Combermere. We hope that you feel better soon, our thoughts and prayers are with you.
John Romain celebrated a birthday on March 9. We hope it was a good one John.
