Author name: The Record

William Crooks
Chantal Turgeon, Action Vision Sherbrooke candidate for Lennoxville’s Uplands seat, pictured at Bekkah’s Bakery in Lennoxville on Oct. 1

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

At a table in Bekkah’s Bakery in Lennoxville, Action Vision Sherbrooke candidate Chantal Turgeon spoke Oct. 1 about her decision to run for the Uplands seat in the upcoming municipal election, outlining her priorities for the borough and her commitment to teamwork.

Turgeon, who has spent much of her life in the Lennoxville community through volunteering and work, said her decision to enter politics came after encouragement from colleagues and friends. “My name was already circulating. They asked if I’d be interested in becoming a candidate, and I thought about it. I looked at what it would involve and said, yes, that would be very interesting indeed,” she said.

Community roots and background

Although originally from Cold Lake, Alberta, Turgeon has deep ties to the region. She attended Alexander Galt High School, studied at the Université de Sherbrooke and Bishop’s University, and has worked in teaching, including as an English as a Second Language instructor. She also volunteers at the Uplands Museum, serves tea at community events, and works as an invigilator at Bishop’s.

“I don’t live here, but I do a lot of volunteer work. I’m very involved in the Lennoxville area,” she said.

Key issues: Safety, bilingualism and consultation

Turgeon identified safety and bilingual status as central concerns for Lennoxville. She pointed to a recent debate about the bike path project as a turning point that drew her attention to local politics.

“I walk around town quite a bit, and there was a meeting at the town council about the bike path. It was very interesting, and I think we have to listen. There is a solution to be found,” she said.

Traffic safety and public transport also figure prominently in her platform. Turgeon recounted how she flagged a malfunctioning pedestrian light at Town Hall, which was later fixed. “We have to make it safe for everyone — pedestrians, cyclists, and public transit users — because that’s a primary concern here,” she said.

The borough’s bilingual status, she emphasized, must remain protected. Turgeon added that businesses and residents should always be consulted before decisions are made. “Everybody has to be included to find a solution,” she said.

Why Vision Action Sherbrooke

Asked why she chose to run under the Vision Action Sherbrooke banner, Turgeon said her values aligned with the party. “The objectives of the party are in line with mine. Working as a team is very important to me,” she explained.

She praised party leader Guillaume Brien as “excellent” and “a very determined man who knows where he’s going, and a great leader.”

Campaigning and party politics

With about a month left before the Nov. 2 vote, Turgeon said her campaign will be focused on visibility and personal contact. “Signs are up, but more importantly, I’m working on door-to-door visits. I think that’s essential,” she said.

She was also present at the Pumpkin Festival, using the event as an opportunity to speak with residents.

On the question of running with a party versus as an independent, Turgeon said she values collaboration. “I believe we’re stronger as a team, covering more ground together. Teamwork has always been important to me,” she said.

Turgeon said she sees her candidacy as an extension of her long-standing involvement in the Lennoxville community. From listening to residents on safety and services, to ensuring the protection of the borough’s bilingual status, her message remains centred on consultation and collaboration.

“I’m involved in the community, and it would be a challenging role, but I think it’s important to make sure voices here are heard,” she said.

Courtesy
Mayor Vincent Fontaine (centre) with his election team, from left to right: Jacques Bogenez (seat 6), Lisa St-Pierre (seat 5), Patrick Clowery (seat 1), Mélanie-Alexandra Beauchamp (seat 3), Martine Pariseau (seat 2), and Éric Mathieu (seat 4).

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Hatley Township council’s Oct. 1 public meeting, presided over by Mayor Vincent Fontaine, was the last before the Nov. 2 municipal election. The evening covered the usual mix of bylaws, budgets, and building permits, but it was the story of raccoons taking over a pumping station and the questions raised by residents—particularly on how the election would unfold during the Canada Post strike—that stood out.

Raccoons invade pumping station

Council heard that the pumping station near Kingdom Street suffered major damage after raccoons broke in. The animals left excrement, tore holes, and even fell into the well. “It was a whole story,” one councillor remarked, describing the mess and the smell. The lowest bid to repair the damage came in at $17,850, and council approved moving ahead with the work.

The incident drew a mixture of humour and frustration around the table. “They made beds, it fell, there was excrement, the ceiling held up,” a member explained. “You can smell it from here!” another added. While the council chuckled at the retelling, the damage was no laughing matter. Fontaine and others agreed the repairs were essential to restore the station and avoid service interruptions.

Questions about the election and postal strike

During question period, residents turned to the looming election and the complications caused by the ongoing Canada Post strike. Concerns focused on how voter notification cards and registration updates would reach electors if the strike continued.

General Manager Gabriel Demers outlined the situation. “Because of the strike, we don’t have any information about the elections that are coming up,” he said, noting that the province was still preparing its response.

Demers explained that the government had a few options. “The first is that the government will put its foot down,” he said, referring to the possibility of compelling postal workers to handle election-related mail. If not, municipalities might have to take over.

These “letters” include the voter notification cards that confirm registration and polling location. Demers reassured residents that the township would still fulfil its obligations. “We’re going to meet our obligations, but we still have government support. We received a first email yesterday with the directives, and we’re waiting to receive further information,” he said.

He added that the electoral lists were expected Friday evening, and “from Monday morning, we’re going to have to make a decision on the list.” Distribution methods could change depending on costs and directives, but he emphasized that residents would remain informed. “That won’t change,” Demers said.

Councillor Danielle Côté recognized

The meeting also included a more personal moment. A councillor proposed a motion of congratulations for Councillor Danielle Côté, who has decided not to run again. She was praised for her years of work on committees related to waste management, donations, and municipal protocols. “I simply want to underline the extraordinary work that she has done all these years,” the councillor said.

While some suggested waiting until November to make the motion official, council agreed to record the sentiment in the minutes. Fontaine noted the recognition as fitting, given Côté’s longstanding contribution to Township affairs.

International day for older persons noted

Council also marked Oct. 1 as the International Day of Older Persons. A short statement was read highlighting the important role seniors play in the community and encouraging residents to take time to celebrate their contributions.

The statement pointed to the provincial government’s new five-year action plan on aging, which aims to improve support for seniors across multiple aspects of life. Council described the initiative as “very encouraging” and urged residents to spend time with older generations.

Routine business

The packed agenda also included:

• Environmental regulations: Council approved revisions to the Township’s pesticide and fertilizer bylaw, first adopted in 2012, tightening rules around domestic use and introducing permit requirements. They noted that the agricultural sector would not be affected.
• Speed limits: A stretch of local road was standardized to 50 km/h after previously having inconsistent limits of 50 and 70 km/h.
• Legal services: Council authorized an hour-bank agreement with a law firm for future needs.
• Small claims: Representatives were appointed to handle a file involving a grant request of less than $15,000.
• Urban planning: Architectural integration plans were approved for projects on local roads.
• Infrastructure: Beyond the raccoon-damaged pumping station, council approved the installation of new pumps on MacDonald Road at $12,800 and delegated authority to the director general to approve up to 10 per cent in additional costs for a $1.37-million paving project on de la Rivière Road, supported by provincial funding.

With the municipal election set for Nov. 2, Fontaine confirmed he will seek another term as mayor. He is running alongside his team: Jacques Bogenez (seat 6), Lisa St-Pierre (seat 5), Patrick Clowery (seat 1), Mélanie-Alexandra Beauchamp (seat 3), Martine Pariseau (seat 2), and Éric Mathieu (seat 4).

The meeting concluded around 7:30 p.m.

Courtesy
Greg Duncan, candidate for Seat #1 on Stanstead council, is pictured as he launches his campaign focused on transparency, economic development, and preserving the town’s bilingual heritage

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Greg Duncan, a longtime voice in Stanstead and former publisher of the Stanstead Journal, is running for Seat #1 on town council in the Nov. 2 election. With deep roots in the community and a career in communications, Duncan says his campaign is focused on transparency, economic development, and protecting the town’s bilingual character.

“I grew up in Stanstead, graduated at Stanstead College, and my parents both taught there,” Duncan said in a Sept. 30 interview. “I co-owned the Stanstead Journal in the 1990s and have been writing columns ever since. I came back during the pandemic after years working away, and I’ve always been active in supporting a voice for the community.”

Duncan’s family has a political background. His mother was the first woman councillor in Rock Island before the three villages merged, and his uncle served two terms in the Alaska State Senate. “I’m happy to carry on the tradition,” he said.

Bilingual heritage and governance

Duncan places a strong emphasis on Stanstead’s bilingual status, particularly in the wake of Bill 96. “I want to ensure that Stanstead reflects and embraces its historical bilingual nature and our cross-border nature too,” he said. He noted he previously drafted a motion for council to retain the town’s bilingual designation.

He also stresses better communication between council and residents. “I’d like to see clearer, more frequent bilingual updates, an open channel between council and citizens,” he said. He suggested citizen town halls a couple of times a year and a return to publishing public notices to support community media.

Economic development and housing

Economic resilience is another priority. Duncan pointed to vacant properties and recent losses such as the local SAQ outlet. “We need to attract more business and show that there’s opportunity here, whether through redevelopment of older buildings or inviting new investment,” he said.

Housing also features prominently in his platform. “Affordable housing is needed everywhere, but in Stanstead in particular,” Duncan said. He supports revamping existing buildings or identifying those that could be converted to housing, alongside new funding options.

Supporting all generations

With a demographic leaning heavily toward seniors, Duncan said services for older residents must remain strong, while youth programming and employment opportunities also need attention. “We’re not a monoculture economy here with the granite industry. What else can be brought to Stanstead?” he asked.

Seven pillars of success

On social media, Duncan has been sharing what he calls a “menu of success” for small towns. Adapted from a recent column he wrote, the seven pillars include:

• Strong local economy: supporting small businesses, tourism, agriculture, and infrastructure upgrades.
• Transparent and inclusive governance: clear, bilingual communication and open meetings.
• Community engagement: encouraging civic participation and celebrating heritage and the arts.
• Support for all generations: programs for seniors, youth mentorship, and intergenerational activities.
• Quality of life: safe public spaces, access to healthcare and education, affordable housing.
• Cultural vitality: festivals, arts programming, and preserving bilingual heritage.
• Resilience and innovation: adaptability, forward-thinking leadership, and regional collaboration.

“I just want to improve the quality of life for everybody and see what I can do on this local council,” Duncan said.

Campaign style

Duncan is running a positive, upbeat campaign. “My slogan is kind of like this sunny menu of success. I want to bring a positive thing to the whole process,” he said. Without a formal debate planned, he intends to continue outreach through social media, door-to-door visits, and informal gatherings at local restaurants.

As a candidate with decades of communications experience — including work for Global Affairs Canada, the Department of National Defence, and as executive director of the Quebec Community Newspaper Association — Duncan says he is well positioned to help Stanstead navigate the challenges ahead. “It’s always about transparency as far as I’m concerned. There’s room for improvement, and I want to be a voice for the community,” he said.

William Crooks
A crowd of more than 500 people in orange shirts sets out from Bishop’s University on Sept. 30 for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation Walk, heading through Lennoxville before concluding at Coulter Field

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Well over 500 people in orange gathered at Bishop’s University on Sept. 30 for a National Truth and Reconciliation Walk, marking Canada’s National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. The walk, which opened at Kwigw8mna and wound through parts of Lennoxville before concluding at Coulter Field, offered a moment of collective reflection, solidarity, and commitment to honouring survivors of the residential school system.

Participants included students, faculty, staff, local schoolchildren, and community members from across the Sherbrooke region. The event was led by Indigenous staff, students, and invited community members who spoke, prayed, and sang throughout the event.

Walking, remembering, connecting

At the start of the walk, a speaker welcomed the crowd to what she called “a whole sea of orange shirts,” noting that students from area institutions had come together in support. “It’s really beautiful to see the next generations here with us as well,” she added.

Another speaker highlighted the importance of resilience alongside remembrance: “We’re here to celebrate the resilience of Indigenous people, that we’re still here … speaking our languages today.”

Ceremony, music, and prayer were woven into the event. A welcome song opened proceedings, a prayer asked for peace “for the children who suffered,” and a reflection urged participants to honour memory by walking in solidarity. “We are walking for the children who have been torn from their families, for the voices that have been reduced to silence,” one voice said. “But we are also walking for hope, for healing, for reconciliation, for a future where every Indigenous child can grow up proud of their identity.”

A further message offered a sobering reminder of history: “This enterprise of killing the Indian in the heart of the child raged for over 150 years on the lands of Quebec and Canada … until 1996,” the crowd was told. “It is our responsibility to consider current realities as direct consequences of colonization and commit to a sincere act of reconciliation.”

Songs, stories, and solidarity

Voices throughout the afternoon connected past injustice to present commitment. “Let’s walk together hand in hand, so that their memory is never forgotten,” one speaker told the gathering. “We are walking for truth, we are walking for justice, we are walking for love.”

At Coulter Field, participants formed circles around drummers and singers as the event closed in ceremony, underlining that remembrance, grief, and hope can walk side by side.

Townshippers’ Association observance

Separately, the Townshippers’ Association marked Sept. 30 with its own observance. In a Sept. 29 press release, the association’s board encouraged community members to wear orange and reflect on the history and legacy of residential schools. “This day offers us an opportunity to consider our shared history, to acknowledge the injustices of the past, and to commit to building a better future together,” the statement read.

The association said it stood in solidarity with Indigenous communities of the Eastern Townships and across Canada, emphasizing that reconciliation requires both reflection and action.

Upcoming Bishop’s events

The walk was part of a larger program of activities at Bishop’s for Truth and Reconciliation Week. On Oct. 1, the university will host a screening of Sugarcane, a documentary directed by Julian Brave NoiseCat and Emily Kassie, followed by a discussion session in Bandeen Hall. The film investigates the history and ongoing effects of residential schools in Canada.

On Oct. 3, Kwigw8mna will hold an open house featuring a documentary on its creation and the voices of those who built it. The screening will take place at Centennial Theatre at 2 p.m.

By midafternoon, as orange shirts glowed in the sunshine and participants walked together in solidarity, the mood was at once somber and hopeful. Organizers and speakers positioned the walk not as a one-day gesture, but as a call to living reconciliation in daily life. “Let’s walk together… so that their memory is never forgotten,” participants were urged.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

As Sherbrooke approaches the Nov. 2 municipal election, the Lennoxville bike path project has become a  contentious issue. Proposed changes to Queen Street that would add one-way cycling lanes and reduce parking have divided residents, merchants, and city officials. All four mayoral candidates agree on the importance of active mobility, but their responses highlight different approaches to consultation, compromise, and balancing transportation with economic needs.

Vincent Boutin: Communication and compromise

Independent candidate Vincent Boutin said before the recent official launch of his campaign that the real problem is that residents and merchants were not properly engaged from the start. “This project was not worked on in advance,” he said, pointing to the Aug. 25 public consultation where many business owners felt left out.

Boutin recalled similar tensions on King Street East, where opposition eventually gave way to solutions after direct meetings. “The same situation happened—merchants, developers, and residents were all against it. We sat down with them, found solutions, and the project moved forward,” he explained.

He believes the current compromise, which preserves some parking while adding bike lanes, can work if further adjustments are made. “At first, I was told there would be no parking at all. The compromise we have now could be viable, but we can still do more to address merchants’ concerns,” he said.

For Boutin, continued dialogue is the way forward. “We need to work with citizens even more if we want this project to succeed,” he added.

Raïs Kibonge: Continuing the dialogue

Sherbrooke Citoyen candidate Raïs Kibonge framed the Lennoxville debate as part of a bigger picture. “We need a plan that connects the whole city so cyclists can travel seamlessly,” he said Sept. 30.

Each neighbourhood has its own challenges, he argued, making the Aug. 25 consultation an important first step. He compared it to work done on Wellington South, where concerns from businesses and non-profits were resolved through repeated discussions. “We talked about parking, deliveries, and other real needs. In the end, we reached an agreement and the bike lane went in,” he said.

Kibonge stressed flexibility in Lennoxville as well. “Some people suggested maybe the bike lane could work only on weekends or weekdays. I’m open to those kinds of discussions,” he said.

He also underlined that cyclists and people with reduced mobility need to be considered alongside merchants and drivers. “The way forward is to keep talking until we find a solution that works for everyone—pedestrians, cyclists, and people who need parking,” he said.

Guillaume Brien: Protecting local business

Vision Action Sherbrooke candidate Guillaume Brien voiced strong concern for the survival of small businesses in a Sept. 30 conversation with The Record. After visiting Hayley Hopps, owner of a Lennoxville marketplace hosting 40 artisans, he said he was struck by the risk they faced. “They told me they might have to close if the project goes ahead as planned. That’s major,” he said.

Brien insisted his party is not against cycling infrastructure. “Bike paths are good. They need to be connected and safe. But in some areas, we have to find routes that won’t kill local businesses or drive them away,” he explained.

He also rejected what he called a divisive framing. “This isn’t about choosing between the bike and the car. We can find solutions together,” Brien said.

Merchants have also raised safety concerns for delivery trucks. “Some said, ‘Our trucks won’t see cyclists if lanes go in as planned.’ Maybe the bike lane needs to be concentrated on one side. I’m not the expert, but I know enough to say we need to pause in certain areas,” he said.

As mayor, Brien pledged to revisit the Lennoxville plan. “For the stretch through downtown Lennoxville, we’ll review things to strike a balance between cyclists and businesses,” he said.

Marie-Claude Bibeau: Pledging a review

Independent candidate Marie-Claude Bibeau has already staked out a position on the issue. At a Sept. 26 press conference in Lennoxville, she acknowledged residents’ and merchants’ frustration. “Consultation means going to those who are most affected early in the process, not after the decision has been made,” she said.

Bibeau committed to revisiting the Lennoxville project if elected. “This project will not move forward until we have found an acceptable option for the local community,” she pledged.

While supportive of expanding Sherbrooke’s cycling network, she argued it must be done responsibly and with broad acceptance.

Background: August consultation

The Aug. 25 public meeting at the Amédée-Beaudoin Community Centre drew over 150 residents and exposed the divisions now playing out in the campaign. City officials presented plans for bike lanes along Queen Street, tied to provincially mandated crosswalk upgrades and Sherbrooke’s mobility plan. The project would remove 49 parking spots on the west side while keeping 51 on the east.

Residents raised fears about losing parking, snow removal, and safety, while merchants warned of economic losses. Supporters countered that Lennoxville needed to modernize and connect to the regional cycling network. Frustration mounted when some accused officials of having already made up their minds.

A defining issue

The future of the Queen Street bike path is uncertain, with construction not expected before 2026. Boutin calls for better communication, Kibonge for continued dialogue, Brien for strong protection of local businesses, and Bibeau for a fresh review.

For Lennoxville residents, the decision will shape not only the borough’s main street but also the broader vision of how Sherbrooke balances sustainable mobility with the needs of its merchants and families.

William Crooks
The former Sebby’s Restaurant building on Queen Street in Lennoxville being demolished on Sept. 22

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The building that once housed Sebby’s Restaurant on Queen Street in Lennoxville was demolished Sept. 22, closing a chapter in the borough’s history.

Borough President Claude Charron said the site’s disappearance is not just a matter of bricks and mortar but a reminder of the role the restaurant played in the community. “People have memories tied to that building. For many, it’s a part of Lennoxville’s social history,” he said in an interview.

Sebby’s operated for decades and became a fixture in The Record, appearing regularly in coverage of local life. Families gathered there for birthday parties and anniversaries, while community groups held luncheons and dinners. It was also a favoured spot for political events, from campaign breakfasts to election-night gatherings.

And the building has a history that long predates the popular restaurant, serving previously as the Len Pub, and a funeral home before that.

In 2009, Sherbrooke city council approved façade renovations for the building, highlighting its commercial importance at the time. A few years later, the borough pointed to those improvements as a model for downtown revitalization. Even earlier, Sebby’s played host to countless fundraisers, including charity golf tournaments, and served as a meeting place for civic organizations.

Charron said that while restaurants and businesses inevitably come and go, some leave a mark that lingers. “You can see how many times Sebby’s comes up in old newspaper clippings. It tells you something about its role in the life of the town,” he explained.

He added that Lennoxville’s commercial vitality depends on both preserving history and adapting to new realities. “We’ve always had businesses that serve as anchors. When one closes, the question is how the space will be used next. That’s something residents pay close attention to,” he said.

The borough president emphasized that future use of the lot will be important to the health of Queen Street. “Our goal is to encourage projects that contribute positively to the community, whether it’s through services, culture, or commerce,” he said.

Despite the demolition, questions about the site’s future remain. M. Haddad, owner of the lot and proprietor of the Familiprix on King Est, was repeatedly contacted last week but has not responded as of press time. His son, who works at the pharmacy, initially indicated his father would be available to clarify the situation.

For many long-time residents, the removal of the building marked the end of an era. Still, Charron suggested that the memory of Sebby’s will continue to shape how people think about Lennoxville’s identity. “It’s part of our story,” he said.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

As World Teachers’ Day approaches on Oct. 5, the Syndicat de l’enseignement de l’Estrie (SEE-CSQ) is using the occasion to celebrate the profession while drawing attention to the pressing challenges facing educators.

David Raymond, president of the SEE-CSQ, said the day is an opportunity to shine a light on the crucial role teachers play in students’ lives. “It’s the moment for us to acknowledge all the excellent work done by these people who make a difference for our children who are at school,” he said, stressing that teachers help students progress not only academically but personally as well.

Celebrating teachers

World Teachers’ Day, created by UNESCO in 1994, is marked annually to recognize the contribution of educators. In Estrie, Raymond said the union encourages schools to take time for themselves, not just their students. “Very often, the teaching staff thinks of the students but forgets to think about themselves. So, we are giving them the opportunity to think about themselves and… organize a social and syndical meeting in order to talk about… their needs and their reality,” he explained.

To reinforce that message, the SEE-CSQ has launched a radio campaign with a more positive tone than the often-negative news about education. “Very often, I’m asked, as president of a union, to respond to bad news in education. But you have to remember that it remains a very, very beautiful profession,” Raymond said.

The press release issued jointly by SEE-CSQ and the Fédération des syndicats de l’enseignement (FSE-CSQ) called on Quebecers to thank teachers directly. “Investing in the teaching personnel and listening to their solutions is also investing in the learning conditions of students, and therefore in their future and that of Quebec society,” said FSE-CSQ president Richard Bergevin.

Challenges in the classroom

While the tone of World Teachers’ Day is celebratory, Raymond underlined significant issues teachers face daily. Chief among them is workload. “To allow teachers to do what they do best, which is to teach, is challenge number one,” he said. The integration of students with special needs into regular classes has outpaced the resources provided, leaving teachers stretched thin.

Another major concern is violence in schools. “We have seen an increase in the course of the last few years in acts of violence towards teachers, whether they are students who threaten, who bite, who throw objects,” Raymond noted. He warned that the situation is discouraging some teachers from staying in the profession.

A new province-wide protocol to address school violence was launched earlier this month, following an Estrie pilot project. Raymond welcomed the expansion. “By uniting our resources and our expertise, we were able to create a robust and practical tool that will benefit all school teams,” he said when the initiative was announced.

Looking ahead

Raymond stressed the need for predictability in school resources, noting that frequent cuts and reinstatements wear down morale. “All of that takes a lot of time and energy, and it’s demoralizing to always work with shifting budgetary contributions,” he said.

Despite the challenges, Raymond insisted that teaching remains a profession worth celebrating and protecting. “It’s not normal to see so many people leave the profession in the first five years,” he said. “But nevertheless, if we take care of the teachers, it remains that teaching is one of the most beautiful professions in the world.”

The SEE-CSQ represents more than 5,000 teachers across the Estrie region, from the Centres de services scolaires des Sommets, des Hauts-Cantons, and de la Région-de-Sherbrooke. With World Teachers’ Day set to be marked in schools across the province, Raymond hopes the public will take a moment to recognize the impact of those in the classroom — and the need to support them in the years ahead.

William Crooks
(Left) Dan Beaumont of Quebec City, who spoke about his admiration for Ted Silver dating back to the early 1970s, with Silver (centre) and event host Daniel Coulombe (right) during the tribute evening at The Piggery Theatre

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Piggery Theatre was filled Saturday evening with voices and memories from across five decades of local broadcasting as friends, colleagues, and community members gathered for a tribute to English-language radio in the Eastern Townships. The main focus of the evening was the recognition of Ted Silver, who was honoured for his long career and impact on the region’s airwaves.

One absence was noted early on: David Teasdale, who helped launch CJMQ and was scheduled to speak about the station’s present and future, was unable to attend due to illness.

The evening began with cocktails and dinner before guests moved into the auditorium for a two-hour program hosted by CJMQ’s Daniel Coulombe. He opened with a reminder of radio’s enduring role: “Radio is the theatre of the mind. The images don’t come automatically to your eyes. You have to make the images up in your head.”

Remembering Silver’s influence

Speakers emphasized Silver’s role in shaping the sound and spirit of CKTS and later CJMQ. Coulombe recalled how Silver would hold “air check” sessions, reviewing announcers’ taped broadcasts: “With Ted, it was a totally different affair, where you knew that having to deal with a teddy bear, you would ultimately always be okay.”

Former Alexander Galt coordinator Bob Halsall was introduced for his long service to student life, and former Lennoxville mayor and MP David Price shared his memories of CKTS as a teenager. Price described calling in to request songs on Friday nights: “Yes, you called in to put in a request, but you had a pretty good idea that you were probably going to end up meeting a whole lot of new people.”

A career in context

Silver’s contribution to local broadcasting had been profiled previously in The Record. In 2011, he was described as having “passion for radio, his encyclopedic knowledge of music, and his ability to nurture young talent.” That feature traced how he came to the Townships after working in other markets and became a central figure at CKTS before later supporting CJMQ.

Celebrating 50 years of English-language radio

The tribute was organized around four chapters in Townships radio history: the pre-1975 CKTS era, the launch of CKTS Music Radio in 1975, the growth of the station in the 1980s, and the founding of CJMQ in the 1990s. Each section featured stories from those who had been behind the microphone or in the control room.

Coulombe tied the themes together by stressing that radio is more about people than technology: “While you can take people out of radio, there is no way you can take the radio out of people.”

The Piggery event underscored that point, with former announcers and community contributors attending to share stories and reconnect with listeners. The reserved front rows were for dinner guests, but by the time the program began the theatre held dozens of others.

Silver’s legacy

Those who spoke returned again and again to Silver’s influence as both broadcaster and mentor. From his early years helping establish CKTS Music Radio to his later role supporting CJMQ, he was consistently portrayed as a supportive leader who valued both the craft and the community around it. His career, as remembered Saturday night, reflected the idea that English-language radio in the Townships was never just about music — it was about connection.

William Crooks

Marie-Claude Bibeau speaks at a Sept. 26 press conference in Lennoxville, where she outlined her commitments on safe and sustainable mobility and addressed concerns about the borough’s bike path project

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Independent candidate for mayor of Sherbrooke, Marie-Claude Bibeau, used a press conference in Lennoxville on Sept. 26 to announce her commitments on safe and sustainable mobility, with a strong focus on the controversial bike path project in the borough.

Speaking at Square Queen, Bibeau said active mobility is essential but must be developed responsibly. “It is now important for a municipality like Sherbrooke to offer adequate and safe infrastructure for cyclists, not only for leisure, but also for utility travel,” she said. However, she stressed that some recently implemented projects have created “non-negligible collateral and negative impacts.”

Bibeau acknowledged frustrations voiced by residents and business owners in Lennoxville and other parts of the city. “I must admit that the level of frustration of a very, very large number of citizens, businesses and community organizations that I have met in the spring about cyclists is extremely worrying.”

She pledged to take a different approach if elected. “Consultation to me means coming to the group that are maybe impacted, not only those who are interested, early in the project, to really listen to you, not come to you at the end when the decision has been made,” she explained. She underlined the role of Lennoxville’s three borough councillors, saying they should engage residents at the start of the process and consider multiple options before decisions are finalized.

Asked directly whether the bike path project in Lennoxville could be cancelled, Bibeau left the door open. “At the end of the day, it will be a City Council decision. But my commitment is to reconsider the decision very seriously.” She added that projects without social acceptability would not go ahead: “This project will not move forward until we have found an acceptable option for the local community.”

While committing to a review of problematic sections, Bibeau also affirmed support for expanding the cycling network where appropriate. “I am in favour of the network of cycling, recreational and utility routes, but we just have to do things well, in respect of all users.”

Her press release emphasized that bicycle infrastructure remains an asset for Sherbrooke, but adjustments must be made responsibly. “I am therefore committed to reviewing the sections of the cycling network that pose problems of social acceptability, technical challenges or safety concerns, such as here in Lennoxville.”

The Lennoxville bike path project has been a flashpoint in recent months, with local residents raising concerns about consultation and safety. Bibeau said her candidacy is built on evidence-based and transparent decision-making. “We must get out of ideological postures and make decisions that take into account the preoccupations of the entire population.”

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Quebec Liberal MNA Désirée McGraw says she is hearing louder and more direct concerns from Eastern Townships residents about agriculture, higher education, and government cutbacks. McGraw, who represents Notre-Dame-de-Grâce and serves as her party’s spokesperson for the Estrie region, toured the area this week with fellow Liberal MNA André Fortin, critic for agriculture and higher education.

“We try to come at least once a month, and I usually come with a colleague to focus on themes that are priorities for the region,” McGraw said after her trip. “This time we came together around agriculture and higher education.”

Agriculture under pressure

The pair met with the Union des producteurs agricoles (UPA) during its AGM and spoke with farmers about mounting challenges. McGraw said she heard repeated concerns that “so many people who work in the sector feel that they’re not set up for success.” Farmers cited high debt loads, difficulties attracting younger generations, and penalties that limit access to subsidies if they take on outside jobs.

“There’s a lot of stress, high levels of anxiety,” she noted. “People are passionate about the work they do, but they spend more of their time dealing with an enormous administrative burden instead of being in the field.”

McGraw also visited one of Quebec’s oldest vineyards in Magog, where owners told her that the SAQ’s practices and international wine promotion create “a real disincentive, almost a punitive approach to Quebec producers.”

Higher education at risk

At the Université de Sherbrooke, McGraw said she was impressed by the institution’s research output, economic impact, and sustainable development leadership. The university is aiming for carbon negativity even as it expands, and has raised $230 million toward a $250 million fundraising goal.

But she warned that government cutbacks are hitting hard. “If you’re a university that’s growing, like the Université de Sherbrooke, you’re actually doubly penalized,” she said, pointing out that the reference year for cuts was 2020, during the pandemic.

McGraw also raised concerns about rhetoric from the government which she described as “anti-university and anti-students,” making it harder to attract international talent.

At Bishop’s University, she highlighted recent collaboration through the Bishop’s Forum, which brings together young anglophones from across Quebec. “It’s a wonderful coming together of emerging leaders… and a very inclusive approach to how you define what it means to be an English-speaker in Quebec.”

She said Bishop’s remains under pressure despite some tuition hikes being rolled back after strong community mobilization. “There’s been a real concrete impact and difficult decisions having to be made,” she said, blaming what she called the CAQ government’s “very regressive approach to higher education and targeting English-speaking historic universities.”

Tariffs and small business

Beyond agriculture and education, McGraw noted new difficulties for small businesses since the end of August, when the de minimis exemption for cross-border exports under $800 was removed. “That’s been a huge hit for small businesses across Quebec,” she said. Some firms are considering absorbing the costs, but others may relocate operations to the U.S., she added.

Cuts, deficits, and trust

McGraw criticized the CAQ government’s budget decisions, particularly cuts that have driven school boards to litigation. “It’s a very sad day when the cuts are so deep that school boards have no choice but to take the Quebec government to court,” she said. “Precious resources are being devoted to that instead of services to students.”

She argued that the government has “broken the social contract” with Quebecers. “We pay the highest taxes in North America, and we’re not getting the public services in education, health, and social services. We also have a record deficit. It’s completely untenable.”

McGraw emphasized that she intends to keep returning to the region regularly, often staying near Bishop’s University. “Pretty much every time I come to the Eastern Townships and stay overnight, I stay with my friends who live right next to the campus,” she said, adding that she keeps “in close touch with the community in the Eastern Townships.”

William Crooks
APTS members demonstrate in Sherbrooke on Sept. 24 to demand payment of premiums nearly a year overdue

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Nearly a year after premiums promised in their collective agreement were due, health and social service professionals gathered in Sherbrooke on Sept. 24 to demand action. The protest, organized by the Alliance du personnel professionnel et technique de la santé et des services sociaux (APTS), drew members to King Ouest Street to denounce what the union called “an unacceptable bungle.”

The premiums, negotiated in 2023, were meant to recognize difficult working conditions such as evening, night and weekend shifts, as well as assignments in long-term care centres (CHSLDs), youth protection, psychiatry, and services for clients with serious behavioural disorders. The APTS says in a release these bonuses are essential for staff retention and for maintaining the quality of care offered to Quebecers.

But close to a year after the deadline set out in the collective agreement, the union says large amounts remain unpaid. Members are dealing with application errors, missing retroactive sums, and what they call unjustified delays. “It is a sad anniversary that we are marking today. Waiting so long to receive duly negotiated sums is simply unacceptable,” said APTS President Robert Comeau in a statement released ahead of the protest. “Our members are at the end of their rope. These delays show a blatant disregard for the commitments made and for the people who keep the network alive on a daily basis.”

On the ground in Sherbrooke, frustration was clear. “We don’t want excuses anymore, we want to be paid!” a representative told the crowd, adding: “We are going to be strong, and we are going to keep fighting!”

Demonstrators were reminded to stay safe while making their discontent visible. “We are going to tell our people that we’re angry and we’re not giving up!” the representative said as participants lined both sides of King Ouest to form a corridor of protest.

The APTS argues that the slow rollout of premiums not only undermines morale but also raises practical concerns for members who are unsure whether they will ever see all the money owed. “After all this time, how will people be able to make sure that all the money owed to them has been paid? It’s a huge mess,” Comeau said. “Our members are proud to offer services to the population, and we expect their employers to treat them better than that in return.”

The union is demanding that Santé Quebec assume responsibility and ensure that institutions across the health and social services network meet their obligations. It is calling for all premiums to be paid without further delay, along with legal interest, and for what it describes as “chaotic management” to be brought to an end.

Representing more than 68,000 members across Quebec, the APTS includes professionals and technicians in diagnostics, rehabilitation, nutrition, psychosocial intervention, and clinical support. The union says its members play a vital role in keeping the health network running, but they cannot continue to do so under conditions where their negotiated compensation is left hanging.

Courtesy
Representatives from Quebec and Vermont gathered on Lake Memphremagog to promote cross-border collaboration. From left to right: Heather Pelham, Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing; Marianne Dandurand, MP for Compton–Stanstead; Bernadette Jordan, Consul General to Boston and the New England States; Tayt Brooks, Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development; René Sylvestre, Quebec’s Delegate to New England; Tim Tierney, Vermont Department of Economic Development; and Marie-Elaine Beaudoin, Invest Quebec.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Compton–Stanstead MP Marianne Dandurand is reinforcing ties with Vermont while advancing a slate of priorities at home, ranging from affordable housing and rural infrastructure to cell phone service and support for local media.

Last week, Dandurand joined a delegation on Lake Memphremagog to promote cross-border cooperation. The group included representatives from Vermont’s Department of Tourism and Marketing, the Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development, Quebec’s delegation to New England, Invest Quebec, and Canada’s Consulate General in Boston. The meeting followed a recent session with Vermont legislators.

“We share a border, but we share families, we share business, and we know that the current situation is not easy,” Dandurand said in a Sept. 24 interview. “Leadership, in order to maintain those links, can come from grassroots and can come from the communities.”

The MP said she wants to ensure the groundwork is in place so that “whenever it’s over, we’re going to be there and ready to start building again whatever is broken with the current administration.” She noted that discussions touch on border security, trade, and tourism, with the expectation of many more such meetings in the months ahead.

Housing and infrastructure focus

Dandurand pointed to housing as her top federal priority, particularly under the new “Build Canada Homes” initiative, which earmarks $13 billion for construction projects. She stressed the importance of tailoring programs for smaller communities rather than only major cities.

“We don’t need those hundred-unit buildings and we don’t have the resources to do that,” she explained. “It’s a new framework that we can work with to build more affordable housing.”

On infrastructure, Dandurand highlighted an additional $1 billion in federal funding intended for water and sewage systems in municipalities. She said she hopes agreements with Quebec can be signed quickly to allow construction to move forward.

Cell service bill in the works

Connectivity remains another concern for the riding. Dandurand confirmed she is preparing a private member’s bill to push for better cell phone service in rural areas, working in collaboration with federal ministers responsible for rural development and telecommunications.

“In regions where we don’t have that pressure, there’s no incentive for companies to build infrastructure because they don’t get the money out of it,” she said. With her name drawn early in the order for private members’ bills, she expects to bring forward legislation soon.

Support for local media

Dandurand also underscored the need to back local journalism. “What can we do to make sure that we have strong independent media, including outside major urban centres?” she asked. She said she is in discussions on how best to support community radio, television, and newspapers in the face of financial strain and disinformation pressures.

Though busy in Ottawa as chair of the Liberal Rural Caucus, Dandurand emphasized that she spends weekends in the riding and plans to participate in upcoming reconciliation-related events. “Most of the time I’m here I’m in the riding, on Fridays as well,” she said.

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Aaron Patella, who previously served as a North Hatley councillor, has announced he is running for mayor in the Nov. 2 municipal election, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and community engagement

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

North Hatley resident and longtime entrepreneur Aaron Patella has announced his candidacy for mayor in the upcoming municipal election on Nov. 2, positioning himself as a voice for greater transparency and fiscal responsibility in the village’s administration.

Patella, who previously served on council in 2018, said his decision to run is rooted in both his professional expertise and his concerns over how the town is currently managed. “I want to bring clarity, accountability, and I want to do it in a community that works together,” he said.

Professional and academic background

Patella has been an entrepreneur for over 20 years and teaches business at Champlain College, where he covers administration, marketing, law, and statistics. His academic career includes a master’s degree in finance and ongoing doctoral research focused on municipal financial accounting. Recently, he became a PhD candidate after completing his comprehensive exams.

“With my coursework done, I now have time to devote to properly engaging in municipal politics,” he explained.

First term experience

Elected to council in 2018, Patella said he learned quickly about the pitfalls of small-town politics. His early run, he recalled, was sparked by community anger over restricting free beach access.

“The town’s administration can have an undue influence on an ill-equipped or ill-prepared town council,” he said, stressing that his years in office gave him valuable insight into the system.

Concerns about administration and spending

Patella is openly critical of the current allocation of municipal resources.

“The town’s public administration is spiralled up to 26 per cent of the budget,” he said. “At some point, you can’t tell me that continuing to pay individuals’ salaries is more effective than delegating to town committees and community efforts to do the same job.”

Community engagement and local expertise

North Hatley, Patella said, is home to a highly educated population eager to contribute. “We have a ton of professionals that would love to donate time, and they’re continually rejected. It makes no sense,” he argued.

He believes tapping into residents’ expertise would not only save money but also build stronger community trust.

Addressing cultural transition

Another challenge he identified is maintaining the village’s cultural balance as demographics shift. “We’ve gone from a majority English town to a town that’s now 40-60 English versus French,” he said. “We’ve got to maintain the historicity of our English culture and support our new citizens and make them both feel welcome.”

He suggested the town’s three remaining churches could serve as anchors for cultural and social integration, while secular initiatives should also be strengthened.

Relationship with administration

While he does not plan to run with a slate of councillors, Patella said much depends on the relationship between the mayor and the director general. He emphasized the need for oversight without allowing either side to dominate.

At the same time, he criticized the tone of official communications. “I find a number of them to take a very high horse position on what’s going on, talking down to the citizenry,” he said. The result, he added, is that some residents feel compelled to launch their own investigations.

Campaign outlook

Patella has launched a bilingual campaign website, AaronPatella.com, outlining his priorities. He plans to campaign door-to-door and is open to public discussions or “ask me anything” events. With candidate registration closing soon, he said his focus is on maintaining steady progress. “It is pace, not race,” he said.

Despite a full professional life, Patella stressed he is committed to the role. “A couple of people have said to me, you know, you’re a busy person. But I have time for priorities, as you can see. When it’s important, it gets done.”

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Eastern Townships School Board (ETSB) Council of Commissioners met Sept. 23 under the leadership of chair Michael Murray, addressing financial uncertainty, staffing pressures, and questions about support for vulnerable students. Several issues of direct concern to staff and parents took centre stage.

Budget adoption delayed

Murray confirmed that the ETSB’s 2025–26 budget remains unfinished due to months of shifting government directives. “We are still wrestling with all of the conflicting announcements that have been made over the last five months which have precipitated the entire budget process into chaos,” he said. The deadline for school boards has been extended to Oct. 30, with ETSB aiming to adopt its budget on Oct. 28. Murray acknowledged it may need to be passed “with caveats” if conditions are not yet clear.

The board remains caught between shifting provincial requirements and the daily realities of keeping classrooms supported. As Murray put it, “We will present the budget as best we can … with whatever conditional elements it may still contain.”

Cuts and collaboration

Responding to a question about cost savings, Murray outlined a series of service-sharing agreements with neighbouring school service centres, including joint bussing with Val-des-Cerfs, shared adult and vocational centres, and co-managed facilities in Sutton, Lennoxville, and Sherbrooke. He emphasized that collaboration has already helped soften the impact of funding cuts.

Health and safety committees in limbo

The Appalachian Teachers’ Association (ATA) pressed the board on the dismantling of the Bill 59 health and safety framework, saying it had worked effectively. An ATA representative argued prevention was being sidelined: “Last year we had a system that was in place that worked … it could have been tweaked as opposed to dismantled altogether.” Murray said the matter was technical and promised administrators would follow up with details about when new committees would begin work.

Staffing challenges for vulnerable students

Concerns were raised about shortages of support staff and resource teachers, with some students reportedly going without services. One representative noted, “Some of our most vulnerable students may not be receiving the services and support that they require.” Murray admitted financial compressions and staff shortages were straining the system. Although all professional vacancies were filled this year, including a speech and language therapist, he said, “We acknowledge that we cannot deliver all of the services [within] the budget parameters that we’ve been given.”

Devices and insurance costs

Questions also surfaced about teachers being charged $100 for computer repairs. Murray said the board does insure its devices but noted that “the question of repair is always a contentious one.” Administrators will prepare clearer guidelines on when staff may be asked to cover costs.

Defining administrative roles

Staff asked for a clearer outline of responsibilities within ETSB’s senior administration. Murray explained that while broad roles exist, “almost every administrator wears multiple hats … they overlap and intersect so much that there are no clear boundaries.” He emphasized that cooperation, rather than rigid definitions, guides board operations.

Professional development and legal fees

Concerns were raised about rising spending on consultants and legal services during a period of school-level cuts. Murray replied that most professional development budgets are decentralized to schools, with local staff councils deciding how to use them. On legal costs, he stressed these are primarily tied to internal labour matters and grievances, not to Quebec English School Boards Association (QESBA) lawsuits. “No part of our school budget goes to support … QESBA legal initiatives,” he said.

Student adaptation to new cell phone rules

The Student Advisory Committee reported that students were adjusting to limits on cell phone use. Many rely on their devices for agendas or calculators, with one student remarking they would “have to buy a calculator.” Commissioners noted the importance of monitoring how restrictions affect learning and daily organization.

Other highlights

• Graduation rates improving: Director General Kandy Mackey noted that despite higher vulnerability among ETSB’s kindergarten entrants, 75.6 per cent of students now graduate within seven years, with 66 per cent of students with special needs completing their studies.
• Recognition of excellence: Schools held Terry Fox Runs, raising thousands for cancer research. ADS Elementary inaugurated a “Buddy Bench” to encourage kindness and inclusion, while Phelps Helps launched a $550,000 fundraising campaign for a new youth space.
• Transportation update: Most bus routes are running, though a few remain affected by driver absences.

William Crooks
Dr. Laurie Laberge and Dr. Catherine Malboeuf-Hurtubise at Bishop’s University’s new Psychology Clinic on Sept. 23

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Bishop’s University officially opened its new Psychology Clinic on Sept. 23, marking an important step in expanding access to affordable mental health care in the Eastern Townships. The facility will also serve as a key training ground for doctoral students in clinical psychology, blending community service with hands-on education.

The Record toured the clinic earlier in the day with psychologist and internship manager Dr. Laurie Laberge, who oversees operations. “The services are offered exclusively by the students,” she explained, “they’re supervised by the profs.”

The clinic offers individual therapy sessions at $25 each, a fraction of the roughly $140 charged in the private sector. Laberge emphasized the importance of keeping the service accessible: “It’s a really small amount… so it’s a big difference. We offer the most accessible service here.”

Training future psychologists

Second-year students in Bishop’s Doctor of Psychology program (PsyD) are the first cohort to provide services through the clinic. These students, still generalists at this stage, handle a broad range of cases. If a client’s needs require more specialized expertise, they are referred elsewhere.

The program is accredited by the Ordre des psychologues du Québec (OPQ), which ensures that the training follows established standards. Associate Professor Catherine Malboeuf-Hurtubise, who helped found both the program and the clinic, said the approach is entirely standard. “This is a very normal type of thing,” she noted. “That’s how we all learn.”

The clinic includes therapy rooms equipped with cameras for supervision, a child therapy space, and facilities for group supervision. All recordings remain on secure servers and are protected under provincial privacy law. “It was really complicated,” Laberge admitted of the cybersecurity measures. “We go by the Law 25 for the privacy matters… a really strict law.”

Serving the community

The clinic is open to the public rather than to Bishop’s students, in order to protect confidentiality within the small university community. Clients so far have ranged in age from eight to 75. Half of the clinic’s early requests have come from English-speaking residents, many of whom reported struggling to find services in English. Others are francophones, reflecting the bilingual mission of the clinic.

Doctoral student Emilie McLean, who is part of the inaugural group of interns, told The Record she is looking forward to applying her training in a real-world setting and helping meet the region’s need for care.

Malboeuf-Hurtubise highlighted that community need was central to the project’s creation. “There is a need in the community for mental health services, especially in English,” she said, explaining that the clinic was designed to serve both francophone and anglophone populations.

Support and growth

A related press release states that the clinic is also supported by the Hewitt Foundation, which funds scholarships for PsyD students. This support allows trainees to focus on their academic and clinical work, with the goal of completing the four-year program and increasing the number of licensed psychologists in the region.

Malboeuf-Hurtubise described the clinic as both a service and an investment in the future. “Through internships, students gain practical experience delivering care to the community. Upon graduation, they will be licensed psychologists equipped to serve clients in both official languages.”

Laberge added that the clinic plans to expand its services over time, with couples therapy expected to be introduced next year. For now, the focus is on building trust with the public and offering high-quality, supervised care.

William Crooks
Raïs Kibonge speaks at the announcement outside Faubourg Mena’sen as Sarah Rahimaly looks on during the campaign event

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Standing outside the Faubourg Mena’sen on Sept. 23, Raïs Kibonge, candidate for mayor of Sherbrooke and leader of Sherbrooke Citoyen, unveiled a three-part housing strategy aimed at taking units out of the speculative market, boosting social and community housing, and speeding up renovations in the municipal housing stock.

The choice of location was deliberate. Faubourg Mena’sen has become a symbol of Sherbrooke’s housing crisis after residents faced uncertainty and upheaval during recent ownership changes. “We must act to prevent human and social tragedies like the one we witnessed here,” Kibonge said, flanked by party members and supporters.

“This is about building a city where the right to housing is not a luxury, but a reality for all,” he added. “Families, seniors, and young people deserve homes that respect their budgets. No one should have to choose between rent and groceries.”

Kibonge explained that his party would support community non-profits (OBNLs) in acquiring rental buildings to protect them from speculation, with the city offering financial backing or municipal guarantees to strengthen their ability to act quickly in competitive transactions.

The second part of the plan is a commitment to progressively raise annual investments in social and community housing from the current $8 million to $12 million by 2029. The move, he said, aligns with Sherbrooke’s housing policy adopted earlier this year, which sets a target of 20 per cent of all housing being out of the private market.

The final measure focuses on renovations. Beginning in 2026, Sherbrooke Citoyen promises an additional $1.5 million annually for refurbishing municipal housing units. “Too many apartments remain vacant while waiting for repairs,” Kibonge noted. “We will make sure no Sherbrookois lives in precarious conditions.”

Sarah Rahimaly, Sherbrooke Citoyen’s candidate in the Pin-Solitaire district, underlined the urgency of the crisis. “Housing is no longer just a matter of availability, but of human dignity,” she said. “The saga around Faubourg Mena’sen must not happen again. Families, seniors, and young people should not have to live in insecurity.”

During the media scrum, Kibonge fielded questions about how the city would finance the new commitments. Asked if property taxes would rise to cover the additional $4 million in annual investment, he replied, “Not only will we not raise taxes for this, but we will manage better. More people are moving to Sherbrooke, new projects are being built, and that brings in new revenues. This is about sound management”.

Pressed on whether $12 million was enough given the scale of need, Kibonge admitted it was not. “Twelve million is not enough, but it is what we can do right now. We started at $2 million, then $4, then $8. By aiming for $12 million by 2029, we give ourselves room to increase progressively and bring in other partners,” he said.

On renovations, Kibonge drew on his experience as former president of the Office municipal d’habitation (OMH). He explained that about 60 to 80 units are typically turned over each year, and the city must keep pace to ensure they can be returned to service quickly. “Renovation brings faster results than new construction,” he said.

Both Kibonge and Rahimaly framed the plan as part of a wider effort to reshape Sherbrooke’s housing market. “We want a city where housing is managed by the community,” Rahimaly said.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

North Hatley held a public meeting on Sept. 16 to present what it describes as four years of accomplishments. With the municipal election scheduled for Nov. 2, where Mayor Marcella Davis-Gerrish has already announced she will seek re-election, the presentation served both as a review and as a forward-looking message about the town’s finances and projects.

According to the presentation, the municipality’s debt has declined significantly from its historic high in the mid-2000s, when major water and sewer system upgrades forced large borrowing. Councillor Michel Desrosiers recalled at a Sept. 18 meeting that, at the time, almost the entire village had to be dug up to replace aging infrastructure, some of which was made of cedar, and that residents lived under a boil-water order for over a decade. Officials credited aggressive pursuit of outside subsidies in recent years for easing the local financial burden, noting that grant money now covers much of the cost of infrastructure upgrades.

The report also highlighted that property values have risen sharply while tax rates have remained stable. Salaries and administrative costs were detailed, along with major projects such as new housing, a daycare, equipment purchases, and the drafting of a new master plan. Councillor Andrew Pelletier said elected officials helped secure government funding through connections in Quebec City, and Davis-Gerrish emphasized that municipal debt repayment is fixed and predictable, unlike personal debt, though refinancing at higher rates can sometimes affect costs.

The mayor said once the remaining debt is paid down, the town could see opportunities for reinvestment or tax relief. She added that councillors are taxpayers too, and “feel the pain” of local finances.

Not everyone agreed with the picture presented. North Hatley resident Antoine Reed, in correspondence with The Record, questioned the debt figure used by the town and argued that audited financial statements should be made public more promptly so residents can assess the municipality’s true financial position. He also raised concerns about administrative spending and council compensation. His full arguments were posted online Sept. 22.

Asked for comment about Reed’s concerns, the town stressed that all figures are audited annually by Raymond Chabot Grant Thornton. In a Sept. 22 interview with The Record, Pelletier added he had not studied Reed’s arguments directly but fully supported the town’s presentation, noting that staff handle access-to-information requests and have been under pressure from a high volume of inquiries.

Later that day, Reed told The Record he had received a cease-and-desist notice from the municipality over his comments, which warned of possible legal consequences if he continued to, in the town’s view, misrepresent the facts.

William Crooks
Luc Tremblay, President of the Sherbrooke Hussars Association (SHA), Samuel Beaudette, Commanding Officer of the Sherbrooke Hussars, Sherbrooke MP Élisabeth Brière, and David W. Rothschild, former Colonel and current Administrator of the SHA, in the Milby Golf Course clubhouse Sept. 20. A golf tournament and dinner were held at the location, raising $13,500 for the SHA.

Golf tournament raises $13,500

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Friends, family, veterans, and those currently serving in the local military gathered Sept. 20 at the Milby Golf Course for a tournament fundraiser that brought in $13,500 for the Sherbrooke Hussars Association (SHA). Bookended by a méchoui dinner, over 50 attended with the festivities and fellow-feeling continuing on into the night. Military members let The Record in on the latest happenings in the area: a change of command, an update on the two heritage buildings being renovated, and how recruitment is going overall.

Near the end of the dinner, SHA President Luc Tremblay thanked the more than 20 local organizations that leant their support and noted former Colonel and current SHA Administrator David Rothschild had a hand in liaising with many of them. The guest of honour, Sherbrooke MP Élisabeth Brière, then took over the microphone and addressed the audience.

After joking about her poor performance on the links and congratulating the winners, the team of the Sherbrooke Fusiliers’ Commander Lieutenant-Colonel Jean Janelle, Brière mentioned work was underway and going well on the two Sherbrooke heritage military buildings, the Belvédère Street and William Street Armouries. She congratulated serving members on their recent “historic” 20 per cent raise, which will allow them to better respond to their challenges home and abroad. “Thank you for your service,” she said. She was then presented with “Green Fields Beyond: The Story of the Sherbrooke Fusilier Regiment”, written by local author Daniel M. Braün.

Samuel Beaudette, recently-appointed Commanding Officer of the Sherbrooke Hussars, then spoke on the expanding numbers of the regiment and his optimism for its future. Janelle added in a later conversation that the Fusiliers’ numbers are up as well. After some post-pandemic changes to the regiment , the Fusiliers are now “healthy” and considered the “top in Quebec.” So many recruits are coming in it has become an issue to train them. Janelle speculated that new younger recruits are joining because they are watching the news and want to do something special for Canada. He praised the collaboration between Sherbrooke’s four units in meeting these challenges.

Rothschild emphasized how important the changing of the Hussars’ command was on Sept. 14. It took place at the regiment’s temporary 700 Woodward Street site. Beaudette replaced Lieutenant Colonel Paul Langlais in what Rothschild called a “very formal” and “important” ceremony. Participating were the local Fusiliers’ orchestra and many dignitaries including Brigadier General Stéphane Tardif and other “top brass.” Rothschild noted that Beaudette came all the way up through the ranks to his position, which is rare.

The Hussars’ Chief Warrant Officer Justin Dohler noted Commanding Officers (COs) typically serve three years, perhaps four under special circumstances. The appointment to CO follows a rigorous process and review from Ottawa, with preferential treatment for those having a connection to the history and current functioning of the regiment. A regiment CO oversees every aspect of their unit with a view to maintaining a high “readiness state.” “It’s his name at the end that ensures all is good,” Dohler said.

Former Hussars CO Colonel Louis-Benoît Dutil provided a few more details about the ongoing construction on the armouries. First, parts of the buildings are to be demolished. It is planned that shovels will not hit the ground for new construction until 2027. The buildings are estimated to be finished by 2031. Another large totally new related complex will be constructed in the area in addition to the renovations.    

Courtesy
From left to right: Pierre Martineau, Johanne Fradette, Constance Ramacieri, Andrew Phaneuf, and Paul-Conrad Carignan, all announced their candidacy in the upcoming Stanstead Township municipal election. Absent from the photo is Brian Wharry.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Constance Ramacieri has officially announced her candidacy for mayor of Stanstead Township in the upcoming municipal election, scheduled for Nov. 2. Currently serving as a councillor, Ramacieri is hoping to take the next step in her public service journey by building on projects already underway and fostering a broader community conversation about the township’s future.

“I was elected councillor in 2021 without opposition,” she said in a recent interview. That election saw six of the seven seats filled by acclamation, including the mayor’s, which she described as “a very sad moment” for democracy. “We announced our candidacy like to no one… It was right in the midst of COVID,” she recalled. “I actually think people were afraid of running.”

This year, however, the atmosphere is different. “It’s a good time to say: let’s have a good debate,” she said, adding that she’s inspired by famous American journalist Bob Woodward’s statement that “democracy dies in darkness.” Her hope is to encourage dialogue and “shine a light on democracy.”

Ramacieri emphasized that her mayoral run is not a solo venture, even if it’s not a formal slate. On Thursday, Sept. 12, she gathered in Georgeville with like-minded individuals who also announced their candidacies: Pierre Martineau, Johanne Fradette, Andrew Phaneuf, Paul-Conrad Carignan, and Brian Wharry—all running for council seats. “They’re all current councillors who decided to put their names forward again,” she said. “It’s not a slate, but it’s a group of people who have worked well together and share common goals.”

Her decision to run was partly influenced by outgoing mayor Pierre Martineau, who will be seeking a seat as a councillor this time. “We worked well together,” Ramacieri said. “Running for mayor is an opportunity to advance a couple of projects that I’ve been working on. I’m not very original,” she joked. “You start stuff, and you want to see the end of it.”

Among the achievements of the current council are the construction of a new fire hall and extensive roadwork. The township has also adopted an updated urban plan aimed at revitalization. “We want to bring more people into the town,” she said. “What do people think about that? Are they behind us?”

For Ramacieri, the election is not just about continuity but also about gauging public support. “We need to know if the population is behind us, if they want to go in that direction,” she said.

Her key commitments are to the environment, community cohesion, and fiscal responsibility. “We have to be very cautious with public spending,” she noted.

She sees some clear challenges ahead. “We’re an aging population,” she said. “We need to bring in people with new ideas and perspectives.” She also emphasized the importance of preserving the township’s heritage, particularly in Georgeville and Fitch Bay. “We need to work together on common values and common projects.”

While the official nomination period opens soon and other candidates may step forward, Ramacieri welcomes the competition. “I think that’s great for democracy,” she said. “It means we have a vibrant community where people are involved and engaged. That’s good for all of us.”

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) presented new findings Wednesday showing that climate change has significantly increased the likelihood and severity of heat waves across the country during summer 2025 — in some cases making them at least 10 times more likely to occur.

Speaking at a bilingual media briefing held via Zoom, Jennifer Smith, National Warning Preparedness Meteorologist, and Dr. Nathan Gillett, Research Scientist, presented data from Canada’s rapid extreme weather attribution system. The findings suggest a clear human fingerprint in many of the most intense heat events experienced nationwide over the past season.

Diverse and dangerous heat across regions

“Heat touched every part of Canada this summer,” said Smith, “but it didn’t happen all at once.” She explained that the timing and characteristics of heat events varied regionally. Western Canada experienced major heat waves in May and again in late August and September, with daytime highs reaching 40°C in B.C.’s Fraser Canyon. In contrast, Eastern Canada saw a condensed stretch of heat from late June to mid-August, with several regions setting records.

Maple Plains, P.E.I., set an all-time provincial high of 38.1°C on Aug. 12. Newfoundland’s Avalon Peninsula experienced its longest-ever heat warning: seven consecutive days. “That’s what sticks in people’s memories,” Smith added, emphasizing that Canadians don’t live the monthly averages — they live the extremes.

She also noted that in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut, peak heat arrived later than usual, with fewer overall warnings issued despite multiple five-day events along the Mackenzie River Valley.

Quantifying climate change’s role

Dr. Gillett described how the attribution system uses global climate models to compare simulations of pre-industrial climate conditions (without human influence) to present-day climates influenced by greenhouse gas emissions.

Of the 12 heat waves analyzed this summer, 11 were found to be “much more likely” — at least twice as likely — due to human-induced climate change. One event, the Aug. 13 heat wave in Atlantic Canada, was classified as “far more likely,” meaning at least 10 times more likely due to climate change.

“That heat wave was the rarest and most extreme of the season,” said Gillett. “It peaked at around four degrees hotter than the typical hottest day of the year.” He explained that it occurred against a backdrop of already dry conditions, exacerbating wildfire risks.

Gillett displayed a graph showing the Atlantic event as a one-in-100-year occurrence in today’s climate — and far rarer under pre-industrial conditions. “That event was made at least 10 times more likely by human-induced climate change,” he said.

Media Q&A reveals future direction

During the media question period, journalists probed further. In response to a question, Gillett explained how the program has evolved since its 2024 pilot. “We refined our system this year,” he said. “We now focus on how observed heat wave temperatures compare to the hottest day of the year for that region, which is a shift from how we approached the analysis last year.”

He also confirmed that ECCC has begun analyzing precipitation extremes using smaller geographic regions (89 across Canada, versus 17 for heat waves). Early results indicate that precipitation events are also becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change, though they require higher-resolution models to analyze effectively.

Gillett addressed timing concerns as well, saying, “We are running the system daily, but it does take time to translate findings into public-facing results. We’re working on releasing these more quickly in the future.”

Asked how researchers distinguish human influence from natural variability, Gillett explained that while solar cycles and volcanoes do affect the climate, their contribution is dwarfed by the warming effect of human-released greenhouse gases. “By far, the dominant factor driving the warming we’ve observed is increases in greenhouse gases from human activity,” he said.

Fewer warnings but longer events

In response to questions about alert patterns, Smith noted that the overall number of heat warnings this year may have been lower than previous years in some regions, but some warnings lasted longer. “We saw very long-duration events, like in Newfoundland and Labrador,” she said. “Previously they may have had warnings for one or two days; this year they had a seven-day event.”

In Western Canada, despite hot daytime highs, fewer heat warnings were issued because overnight lows remained cooler, preventing the events from meeting full warning criteria.

Science for safety and adaptation

“Heat is one of Canada’s deadliest weather hazards,” Smith reminded participants. Gillett echoed this concern, referencing the 2021 Western Canada heat dome, which caused over 600 deaths. He stressed the importance of attribution science for public safety and policy planning.

“These results can help us better plan for, respond to, and rebuild after weather emergencies,” Gillett said. “Understanding how risks are changing can inform decisions to protect Canadians and help plan climate change adaptation strategies.”

William Crooks
From left to right, Chantal Lepage of FUNÉRAweb, Annie Saint-Pierre, director general of the Corporation des thanatologues du Québec, Geneviève Veilleux, president of the CTQ board, Stephan Elkas of Résidence funéraire Steve L. Elkas, and Marie Eve Garneau, director general of Groupe Garneau thanatologue, cut the ribbon to open the 69th annual congress in Sherbrooke

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Sherbrooke is hosting more than 300 funeral professionals this week as the Corporation des thanatologues du Québec (CTQ) opens its 69th annual congress under the theme “Reconnaître notre importance dans la société.” The three-day event, taking place at the Hôtel Delta, brings together funeral directors from across the province to discuss evolving practices, strengthen networks, and highlight their role in Quebec society.

Annie Saint-Pierre, director general of the CTQ, said in a release that the gathering underscores a profession that is still widely misunderstood. “There remains a great lack of awareness of the role of funeral professionals, both among the general public and many decision-making bodies. Their work goes far beyond the death of a person. It involves a universe of responsibilities, legal requirements, and specificities that require expertise and professional support,” she explained.

A gathering with purpose

For Steve Elkas, vice-president of the Résidence funéraire Steve L. Elkas and a member of the CTQ board of directors, the Sherbrooke event is both a professional and social highlight. “We have about 500 member funeral homes across Quebec, and every year we meet in a different city,” he said in an interview at the event on Sept. 16.

Day one combined leisure with networking. “We started with a golf tournament in Venise-en-Québec, while others toured a vineyard. In the evening, we shared a meal on Lake Memphremagog. It’s a chance to see colleagues, some of whom we only meet once a year,” Elkas noted.

Training, technology, and the future of funerals

The congress also serves as a platform for continuing education. According to Elkas, the first training session examined certification standards for funeral homes. “Like in the hotel industry, we now have levels of recognition. The top level is not only certified by us but also recognized by the government. Right now, about 20 funeral homes have reached that level, and we’re looking at how to expand it,” he said.

Later sessions are exploring technology’s growing influence on the industry. “This afternoon, there’s a course on artificial intelligence. I don’t yet know how it’s going to affect our world, but we’ll find out,” Elkas remarked.

The program also includes discussions with philosophers and psychologists about evolving attitudes toward death and funeral practices. “Families today don’t necessarily want what their parents or grandparents had. Some prefer outdoor ceremonies, others want everything online. Things are changing quickly, and we need to adapt,” Elkas explained.

Looking ahead

The congress will wrap up with the CTQ’s annual general meeting, where members debate policies and vote on new directions. “That’s when the boxing gloves come out,” Elkas said with a laugh. “Like any board, majority rules. Not everyone agrees, but it’s communication, and that’s what matters.”

With Quebec nearing 100,000 deaths per year, Saint-Pierre stressed the importance of preparing the profession for the future. The conference agenda highlights issues such as quality standards, operational efficiency, and the integration of new technologies.

For Elkas, hosting the congress in Sherbrooke adds a special touch. “When we bring people to this region, it tends to attract bigger numbers because it’s central. It’s a successful gathering, and we’re here to share knowledge and better serve families during some of the most difficult times of their lives,” he said.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A new province-wide protocol to better protect school staff from violence has been launched by Quebec’s Ministry of Education, developed in partnership with the Centrale des syndicats du Québec (CSQ) and its federations. The initiative draws on an Estrie-based pilot project and comes at a time when teachers’ unions across the region report a troubling rise in violent incidents.

The protocol, announced by outgoing Education Minister Bernard Drainville earlier this month, includes a practical guide for schools that covers both prevention and intervention. According to the ministry, the guide will soon be distributed in every school in the province.

Estrie origins and SEE involvement

The model for the new tool was first designed in Sherbrooke, through a collaboration between the Centre de services scolaire de la Région-de-Sherbrooke and the Syndicat de l’enseignement de l’Estrie (SEE-CSQ). SEE President David Raymond said he welcomed the government’s decision to expand the local model into a province-wide system.

“By uniting our resources and our expertise, we were able to create a robust and practical tool that will benefit all school teams,” Raymond said. “We hope this dialogue continues so we can constantly improve the tool and strengthen safety in our schools.”

Raymond explained that the new provincial protocol goes further than the Estrie version by addressing not only what should happen after an incident, but also steps that can be taken to prevent violence in the first place. “A teacher has the right to work in a safe and secure environment,” he said. “If someone is the victim of violence, it is important to take care of that teacher and make sure they can safely return to their class.”

The SEE has tracked incidents for years. Its last survey in 2022 found that 42 per cent of teachers had experienced violence, up from 35 per cent in 2018. Among teachers with less than ten years’ experience, that figure rose to 52 per cent. On average, schools in Estrie reported 137 violent events every day, ranging from verbal abuse to physical aggression. Another survey is planned this fall to determine whether the trend is continuing.

Ministerial shuffle and predictability

Raymond also reflected on the broader political context, noting that the frequent turnover at the Ministry of Education complicates long-term solutions. “If I’m not mistaken, [Sonia] LeBel will be the 13th Minister of Education in the last 20 years,” he said. “Every new minister wants to bring their own orientation, but what the network needs most is predictability.”

He recalled that Drainville’s $570 million in budget cuts announced in June, followed by conditional reinvestments, had caused confusion in schools when directives quickly shifted. Still, Raymond said he sees reasons for cautious optimism with the new minister. “We had the chance to meet Ms. Lebel during the last collective agreement negotiations, when she was at the Treasury Board, and we’re going to give her a chance. If she accepts collaboration with partners, including unions, it can be win–win for everyone.”

English-sector concerns

In the English sector, the Appalachian Teachers’ Association (ATA) has also been watching the rollout of new safety measures. ATA President Timothy Croteau said his members share concerns about the rise in violent incidents, but he believes the way measures are being implemented locally leaves important gaps.

He claimed the ETSB’s central health and safety committee had been dismantled, arguing that it has left schools without a clear, board-wide mechanism to monitor incidents and develop prevention strategies. In his view, this makes follow-up inconsistent and reduces teachers’ confidence in the system.

Croteau also stressed that psychological health is just as pressing as physical safety. He said members are reporting toxic workplace atmospheres, delays in follow-up of incidents, and growing stress. In his opinion, when teachers see their complaints go unanswered, they become less likely to report, which risks giving the impression that problems have disappeared when they have not.

Broader context

School violence has been the subject of repeated concern across Quebec. The Ministry of Education confirmed earlier this year that it considers the issue a growing problem province-wide. A 2023 survey by the Fédération autonome de l’enseignement found that more than half of teachers reported experiencing verbal or physical violence at work, echoing SEE’s findings in Estrie.

Looking ahead

Both union leaders say the new protocol could make a difference if properly supported. Raymond emphasized that the SEE will keep pressing for improvements and will release updated survey data early in 2026. Croteau said the ATA will continue to push for a reinstated central safety mechanism within the ETSB.

Despite their different perspectives, both agree that stronger systems for prevention, reporting, and follow-up are essential if teachers are to feel safe in their classrooms.

William Crooks
Juyoung Lee on the steps of Lennoxville United Church, where he will be serving as a student intern until April 2026

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A new face has joined Lennoxville United Church this fall, bringing both international perspective and a deep commitment to ministry. Juyoung Lee, a 28-year-old student from South Korea, has begun an eight-month internship at the church as part of his Master of Divinity program with McGill University and the Montreal Diocesan Theological College.

Lee explained in a Sept. 12 interview at the church that his journey to the United Church of Canada began during a semester abroad in Saskatoon in 2019. “While spending one semester and studying the theology of the United Church, I realized that if this is what a church can be, and if this is how it works, I wanted to become a minister here,” he said. In contrast, he noted that many churches in his home country “tend not to be inclusive, and sometimes they are at the front line of excluding marginalized people.”

Having grown up in the Presbyterian tradition, Lee said he felt liberated when he discovered the United Church of Canada. “This is the field where I can use my talents and be freed from what restrained me back in South Korea,” he explained.

The internship in Lennoxville came about through connections at McGill. One of Lee’s former school directors spoke with LUC Minister Ron Coughlin, who suggested the church could benefit from hosting a student. “We don’t have a minister here at the moment,” Coughlin said, alongside Lee. “I suggested to the board that McGill might recommend a student who could help us with ministry and be part of our team. They recommended Juyoung.”

Under the arrangement, Lee will be in Lennoxville from Friday to Sunday each week until April 2026. His duties will include leading parts of the worship service, sometimes opening or closing, and at other times delivering a full sermon. “For example, this week I am leading the offering and the benediction,” he said. “Some weeks I take care of the whole worship service, starting from the beginning, through the preaching, to the end.”

Beyond worship, Lee will also be involved in pastoral care and outreach. “He’ll be visiting people in seniors’ homes and hospitals, as well as reaching out to the community on behalf of the church,” Coughlin said. Lee added that he is eager to learn about “how church work flows, including administration and counselling.”

The internship counts as half of his academic program at McGill, functioning as a practicum that integrates classroom theory with real-world ministry. “The final year of studies includes courses in preaching, pastoral care, outreach, mission and so on,” Coughlin explained. “Then he’s here practicing what he’s learning in those courses.”

Lee said his first visit to the Eastern Townships came earlier this year when he attended a Sunday service in Lennoxville to meet the congregation. “While I was driving from Montreal to here, it was so beautiful,” he recalled. “Even though it was snowing heavily, I was really amazed by how spectacular the view was.” The congregation, for its part, decided that both his learning goals and the church’s needs would align well.

Looking ahead, Lee said he is interested in serving where English-speaking congregations in Quebec remain underserved. “I learned that there are many anglophone populations around Montreal and especially in the Townships,” he said. “Ron told me that they need ministers here, but since it’s a francophone province, many anglophone United Church ministers don’t want to come. I want to be part of that.”

He also spoke of the social challenges facing older anglophone residents in the region. “One of the church members told me that there are older people living alone in the Townships,” Lee said. “After the late 1990s, when Quebec started to apply stricter French language laws, their children moved to other provinces to find work. The parents’ generation stayed in Quebec because they had nowhere else to go. Now they are facing a loneliness crisis. This really touched my heart, and I want to help address the kind of social issues that are hidden.”

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Eastern Townships School Board (ETSB) was forced to cancel 10 bus routes Friday morning after Quebec’s Ministry of Transport ordered a sudden inspection of all Generation 3 electric buses in its fleet. The move came after a fire involving one a Lion electric bus earlier in the week in Montreal, raising fresh questions about the reliability of the technology the board has championed in recent years.

“We received an instruction at 10:07 p.m. last night (Thursday, Sept. 11) that all electric buses were to be immobilized, not on the road, and needed to be inspected,” ETSB Chair Mike Murray said in conversation with The Record Sept. 12. “There seems to be [an] apprehend problem with some part of the wiring in some of the electric buses.”

Sudden disruption

The ETSB operates 20 Generation 3 electric buses, all of which were pulled from service. The board scrambled Friday morning to reorganize, relying on spare diesel buses it had retained after the bankruptcy of Lion Electric and delays in new vehicle deliveries. Despite the backup fleet, Murray confirmed that about 400 to 500 students in the eastern sector—stretching from Drummondville through Sherbrooke to the U.S. border—were left without school transportation.

“By the end of the day, we’re supposed to have inspected them all,” Murray said. Mechanics had already completed eight inspections by late morning and were working to finish the rest.

Parents were alerted before 5 a.m. through a mass text system originally designed for emergencies. “This was certainly an emergency, so every family got a personal text message to alert them that their bus run would either be cancelled or possibly delayed where we had rescheduled the run,” Murray explained.

Mixed signals from Quebec

The sudden order initially applied to all electric buses, but officials later clarified that only the Generation 3 models required inspections. Generation 4 buses, introduced this year, remained in service, including some in the Sherbrooke area.

Murray criticized the abruptness of the directive. “I’m wondering why this fire was different from the fire that happened in Coaticook last spring,” he said. “There’s no explanation why, when we’ve been operating a lot of these buses for four or five years, the panic was on to stop everything today.”

He added that the school board had not been consulted in advance and received the inspection protocol only the morning after the shutdown order. “We still don’t know where we are,” he said. “The inspection will be followed by, I gather, a corrective. If it’s wiring, we can start rewiring immediately and put the buses back in service by Monday.”

No way back to diesel

Asked whether the ETSB might consider buying more diesel buses as backups, Murray said that option has effectively been closed. “The Ministry of Transport has informed everybody that they will not permit us to license any new diesel bus,” he explained. The ETSB has been “stockpiling” older diesel vehicles to cover emergencies like this one, but those reserves are finite.

A setback in electrification

The disruption marks a possible setback in the board’s ongoing electrification plan, first reported in January. At that time, the ETSB operated 23 electric buses and was considering adding 14 more for the next school year.

That earlier effort, officials stressed, was motivated less by immediate cost savings than by long-term environmental responsibility. “It’s less about the budget and more about contributing to the green economy,” ETSB Secretary General Shawn Champigny said earlier this year.

Despite reliability concerns, the ETSB had described its fleet as safe and efficient, noting government subsidies, fuel savings of about $8,000 per bus annually, and new charging infrastructure in Lennoxville, Stanstead, and Magog.

Looking ahead

The current crisis underscores the challenges of balancing innovation with day-to-day service reliability. For Murray, the priority remains clear: “The impact falls on students and on the families that have concerns about getting their kids to school.”

He praised parents for their cooperation during the disruption. “Parents have as usual risen to the occasion and we’re very grateful to the ones that brought their kids to school today.”

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In a context of rising costs and financial pressure on Canadian households, a new report reveals that more than half of pet owners in the country would be unable to afford an unexpected veterinary bill of $1,000 or more. With fewer than four per cent of Canadian pets insured, this financial vulnerability is sparking renewed concern among pet owners and professionals alike—including here in Sherbrooke.

“I’ve been observing since the year 2000, and costs have been increasing pretty much steadily,” said Debra Tacium, a Sherbrooke-based veterinarian who has worked at the same small animal clinic since 2009 and owned it until 2019. “People usually don’t notice until their animal is sick, and the last time that happened might’ve been five or six years ago, so they’re surprised by the change.”

Tacium explained that the rise in veterinary bills reflects a combination of inflation, cost of care delivery, and medical advancements. “Just like in human medicine, technology has become more complex and more available. Before, we would often guess. Now we have more options to test—but testing adds to the cost,” she said.

According to a new study released by HelloSafe, fewer than 3.8 per cent of dogs and cats in Canada are insured, compared to over 91 per cent in Sweden and nearly 25 per cent in the United Kingdom. Meanwhile, emergency vet visits in Canada range from $800 to $2,500. The Canadian pet insurance market grew to $447 million in 2024, a 15 per cent increase, yet remains far from saturation.

For Tacium, the relatively low uptake of insurance tells its own story. “If it were such a good thing, we would have seen a lot more people adopting pet insurance,” she said. “I think it’s generally a good idea, but it just hasn’t caught on.”

She noted that Sherbrooke residents may benefit from relatively moderate prices compared to bigger urban centres, though rural residents face a different set of challenges. “In rural areas, you might be lucky and have a clinic nearby—or you might not have one at all,” she said. “Urban clinics with more diagnostic equipment and higher overhead are naturally more expensive.”

Dental procedures for animals are one example where high costs can surprise owners. “Something like a teeth cleaning requires anaesthesia, IV fluids, dental X-rays, and staff time—it’s not something just anyone can do,” Tacium said. “That’s why it can run into the thousands.”

Despite the challenges, Tacium said she hasn’t seen a recent rise in pet euthanasia due to financial hardship. “From my perspective, working with a shelter, that’s been an ongoing issue for a long time,” she said. “The only time I saw a big drop in people surrendering animals because they couldn’t afford care was during the pandemic. In 2020 and 2021, we had far fewer animals in the shelter—people seemed more willing or able to care for them then.”

Tacium also stressed the importance of rabies vaccinations, especially given the recent rise in raccoon-related incidents in the region. “Rabies is a very dangerous virus, not just for animals but for humans too,” she said. “It’s a very low-cost way to protect against something very serious.”

Asked what people should do if their pet is attacked by a raccoon, Tacium was direct: “The first thing we’ll ask is if the dog or cat has been vaccinated. If not, go to your vet immediately.”

Beyond individual care, Tacium noted that the veterinary landscape in Sherbrooke is changing. “Some corporate clinics have closed recently,” she said, though she was cautious about speculating why. “There are still a lot of good independent clinics in Sherbrooke. When you get a new animal and want to find a vet, do your research—check out websites, ask who owns the clinic, and see how long it’s been around.”

At a time when pets are increasingly seen as members of the family, Tacium offered a simple reminder: “There will always be a need for animal care, and veterinarians are working hard to provide the best they can—despite all these economic headwinds.”

Courtesy
A stream winds through the Boisé du ruisseau Dodds, a humid woodland in Sherbrooke’s Université district that residents are fighting to protect from development

Dodds stream woodland should follow Ascot-Lennox model, says Sherbrooke candidate

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The humid woodland tucked between Chemin Sainte-Catherine and Boulevard de l’Université in Sherbrooke’s Université district has become the latest battleground over urban development and green space preservation. Independent council candidate Benoit Huberdeau is urging the city to permanently protect the Boisé du ruisseau Dodds and follow the example of the nearby Boisé Ascot-Lennox, which was preserved after years of citizen advocacy.

Though Huberdeau is seeking office in the Nov. 2 municipal election, he says the issue long predates his campaign. “I decided to run because I believe this situation needs a final and definitive solution,” he told The Record in a Sept. 11 interview. “But this is about protecting a vital green space, not politics.”

The Boisé du ruisseau Dodds is a roughly 10-hectare section of humid land interlaced with walking trails. Surrounded by residential development, the forested parcel is used regularly by families and walkers, even though it remains privately owned by developer Jacques Vallée.

“It’s not officially a park, but it functions like one,” Huberdeau said. “People treat it like a part of their neighbourhood. To lose it would be a mistake.”

Concerns have mounted recently after residents noticed trees being cut down and what some suspect are drainage changes on the site. “There’s a lack of clarity. The city hasn’t confirmed any project, but the owner seems to be preparing for construction,” he said. “That’s why people are worried.”

Huberdeau said the ground is already saturated, and backyards in neighbouring developments are wet year-round. “Adding more buildings and roads will make things worse. We’re talking about land that should never have been built on in the first place, going back to the Rock Forest era before the city merged in 2002.”

Beyond environmental concerns, Huberdeau raised issues about circulation in the sector. “It’s a dead-end zone. Everyone exits through two or three small streets onto Boulevard de l’Université. Traffic is a safety issue already,” he said. “More development here would hurt, not help.”

Inspired by the successful protection of the Boisé Ascot-Lennox—a forest preserved by Sherbrooke after sustained pressure from residents and environmentalists—Huberdeau said he wants to see the same model applied to Dodds Stream. “My dream is to replicate what the city did with the Ascot-Lennox woods,” he said. “Let’s have the city acquire this land, protect it permanently, and give it to the people for their enjoyment.”

The Boisé Ascot-Lennox, once similarly threatened by development, is now a green corridor known for its biodiversity and recreational value. “That’s exactly what we should do here. It’s the right precedent. We have an opportunity to get this one right,” Huberdeau added.

He has already met with residents involved in the grassroots group Sauvons le boisé du ruisseau Dodds, including spokesperson Mario Rousseau. The group maintains a public Facebook page and has been gathering support to pressure the city to intervene. “The citizens are organized, but they’re also left in the dark,” said Huberdeau. “They deserve answers.”

If elected, he pledges to bring together the key players—city representatives, the developer, and residents—for a mediated solution that avoids further delays. “We can’t keep dodging the issue. People need to know whether this will be protected or not. It’s time to sit down and resolve this.”

Although Huberdeau’s campaign is rooted in this cause, he insisted his primary concern is community well-being. “Whether I’m elected or not, I’ll keep pushing. But as a councillor, I’ll have more tools to make it happen.”

Claudine Bernier

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Santé Courville marked its 90th anniversary on Sept. 11 with a warm and festive celebration at its Waterloo facility, bringing together residents, family members, staff, and community partners to honour nearly a century of compassionate care and family-driven leadership.

Founded in 1935 by Vivian Doe Courville, the organization has remained in the hands of the Courville family for four generations. From its beginnings as the Vivian Courville Nursing Home in Stukely Sud, the institution has grown into a two-location network in Waterloo and Laval, now overseen by Kenneth Courville, with active involvement from his children Wylliam and Karolyne.

“The beauty of the story is that it has always belonged to the Courville family,” said Sonia Arès, assistant to the director general at Santé Courville, in an interview on the day of the celebration. “They’re the ones managing everything. They sit on the board and keep the original spirit alive.”

The anniversary celebration was held in the facility’s lower hall beginning at 11:30 a.m. and included a full schedule of activities for residents and guests alike. “We had a lovely lunch with residents and their families,” said Arès. “The volunteers and employees joined us, and the meal was served by our treasurer and colleagues. They prepared an excellent meal.”

In the afternoon, a mini petting farm delighted residents in the sunlit courtyard, a favourite among the facility’s many interactive activities. “We welcomed [a local] farm, and it brought great joy to our residents,” Arès said.

Santé Courville has long been known for its innovation and commitment to excellence. In 1970, it became the first privately operated long-term care centre in Quebec to receive official designation as a CHSLD (centre d’hébergement de soins de longue durée) under the province’s public healthcare system. It achieved Accreditation Canada recognition in 1975 and received the Médaille du Mérite in 1983 from then-MP Jean Joly.

“These milestones remind us of how far we’ve come,” said Arès. “But more than that, they reflect our constant effort to adapt and grow with the evolving needs of seniors.”

Arès emphasized that the organization’s success is not just due to family stewardship, but also the enduring support of the local community. “We owe this journey to the unwavering commitment of families, volunteers, and partners,” she said. “They’ve helped us create not only a healthcare institution, but a true home for our residents.”

Looking forward, Santé Courville plans to continue its legacy of person-centred care with a focus on quality, dignity, and community connection. “As we celebrate this milestone, we are also thinking about the future,” said Arès. “The needs of our seniors are changing, and we are committed to evolving with them.”

The event also marked an opportunity to reflect on the past and strengthen bonds between generations. “This day was about sharing memories and looking forward with optimism,” Arès said.

For Santé Courville, 90 years is not just a number—it is a testament to trust, tradition, and continued dedication to elder care in Quebec.

Courtesy
The Phelps Helps team in front of their new Stanstead location on Sept. 10, the day they launched their $550,000 “Building Bright Futures” campaign

Phelps Helps launches $550,000 campaign to build a youth hub in Stanstead

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Phelps Helps has launched an ambitious $550,000 fundraising campaign to establish a permanent, youth-focused space in Stanstead. Dubbed “Building Bright Futures,” the initiative officially kicked off on Sept. 10 with a community-wide matching donation program, aiming to double the impact of every contribution made before the end of October.

A growing need for space

Founded in 2012 with just a handful of participants, Phelps Helps has grown exponentially, now serving over 400 youth annually in Stanstead and the surrounding region. That number is expected to rise by another 15 per cent once the new facility opens in early 2026.

“Phelps has steadily grown over the years. We started with seven or twelve kids, and now we’re serving over 400,” said Sophie Nagle, Director of Advancement at Phelps Helps, in an interview on Sept. 9. “We’ve managed to maintain that surge post-COVID. With so many kids passing through our doors for various programs, we simply needed more space.”

The organization currently operates from a building that was put up for sale and had become too small to accommodate the scale of programming required. Instead of investing further in a space that no longer met their needs, the team opted to launch a capital campaign to purchase and renovate a larger building nearby.

“Nothing’s wrong with the building,” Nagle clarified. “It was actually going up for sale. It was a little small. So rather than invest in this building, we decided it’s time—now—we’ve been talking about it for a while—to move into a space that was bigger, that has an outdoor space, and that we can really… make our own.”

Designed for youth, by youth advocates

A related press release states that renovations on the new centrally located building are slated to begin this fall. Once complete, the new Phelps Helps hub will feature:

• Flexible tutoring spaces with sound-dampening features, ergonomic furniture, and adjustable lighting
• A central teaching kitchen for cooking workshops and life-skills development
• A multi-use outdoor area for basketball, street hockey, gardening, and shaded study spaces
• A community hub for parent workshops, mental health programming, and roundtable discussions

“The new building will offer open spaces and closed spaces, which allows us to really target kids who need no distractions or no sensory overload,” Nagle explained. “We’ll also have a really central kitchen—that’s going to be brand new. It’ll be a learning kitchen. So, the kids will be able to cook together.”

The new facility will also bring greater accessibility. “It’s a better location,” she said. “It’s up the road. It means that we’ll be able to reach more kids because of the bus crossover… All of the buses will go past that stop, so more kids, more accessible.”

Serving a broad age range

Although Stanstead is a small town, the demand for Phelps Helps services is significant. Programming is offered to individuals aged 6 to 35, with six separate streams including elementary, high school, and a campus program focused on career development and returning to school. A youth club also provides activities for young adults.

In the Stanstead area, one-third of 6- to 30-year-olds have a connection to Phelps, Nagle noted.

Community support is key

The “Building Bright Futures” campaign includes a matching donation component that runs until the end of October. The Secretariat à la Jeunesse of the Government of Quebec has committed to matching up to $100,000 through its Fonds Mille et UN program, hosted on the La Ruche crowdfunding platform.

Nagle emphasized that the campaign is about bringing people together. “It’s very collaborative,” she said. “People in the community who are donating $10—it’ll become $20.”

To donate or learn more, residents can visit: www.phelpshelps.ca/building-bright-futures

Record archives, 2023

Fière la fête celebrates 13th edition in Sherbrooke

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Fière la fête, Sherbrooke’s week-long LGBTQ+ celebration, has returned for its 13th edition from Sept. 8–14 with a packed schedule of community-focused programming. The theme this year—Unis dans l’adversité, unis dans la fierté (United in Adversity, United in Pride)—reflects both the resilience and unity of the 2SLGBTQIA+ community in the face of mounting challenges.

Fière la fête is organized by Fierté Sherbrooke Pride, with president Roxanne Paquin-Saikali at the helm. The event aims to provide space for connection, celebration, and advocacy for LGBTQ+ individuals and their allies throughout the Eastern Townships and beyond.

“The queer community has been facing a lot of adversity recently,” said Paquin-Saikali. “We’re talking about things like the report from the Comité de Sage, which suggests a lot of going backwards on rights that were acquired—like trans women being welcome in female spaces.”

Beyond that, issues like resurgent homophobia and transphobia in schools are a growing concern. “We’re hearing the word ‘gay’ being used again as an insult among teenagers. It’s really worrisome,” said Paquin-Saikali. “We kind of want to highlight how united we are against these types of behaviours.”

The week kicked off Monday with a festive launch party at Buvette du Centro, hosted by Sœur Alma Marikita of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, and featuring music by the Valss collective and surprise performances.

Workshops and cultural events followed. On Tuesday, a zine-making session led by local artist Axel Roy was held at TransEstrie. Wednesday included a rural LGBTQ+ conference by GRIS Estrie in Bury, a sexual health clinic, and a live talk show with sociologist Chacha Enriquez and “transeignante” Freya Dogger, hosted at Le Boquébière.

Thursday’s literary evening, Dissonances Queers, will feature authors Sayaka Araniva-Yanez, Zed Cézard, and Jean-Michel Fortier, along with performances by storyteller Catherine Robert. “It’s going to be a great day just for the community to meet, for people to talk,” said Paquin-Saikali.

A standout event takes place Friday at Le Boquébière: a ballroom “Vogue” night inspired by the drag balls of 1970s and 80s New York, popularized in the documentary Paris is Burning. “It’s really going to be unique,” said Paquin-Saikali, adding that performances will include Foxy Lexxi-Brown and Canada’s Drag Race star Kiara.

Saturday’s programming includes the second edition of the SherbyQueer market at Place Kassiwi, the debut of “Gouinego” queer bingo, and a colourful edition of Gates of Drag.

The week concludes Sunday with a drag brunch at OMG Resto, followed by a vibrant community day at Place Kassiwi featuring booths, a story hour with Jessie Précieuse, HIV and STI workshops, a photobooth, makeup stations, and creative poster-making.

The highlight of the week—the Marche des diversités—steps off at 3 p.m. from the city’s downtown entrepreneurship hub on Sunday. “It’s really a march for the queer community, for the people,” said Paquin-Saikali. “You’ll see all queer people and their families and allies, marching together, singing together, chanting slogans together.”

Participants can expect drag queens hyping up the crowd on the Mixbus, a Montreal-based mobile sound system rented for the occasion. But the emphasis remains on community rather than corporate sponsorship. “It’s not going to be like you see in bigger cities, with huge floats covered in logos,” said Paquin-Saikali. “It’s about visibility, about saying: ‘We’re here, we’re loud, and we’re not going away.’”

Full programming is available online at fierelafete.com.

William Crooks
Mike Munkittrick addresses North Hatley council during the Sept. 8 meeting, raising concerns about traffic and parking on River Street, as fellow residents look on from the gallery

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

At the Sept. 8 public council meeting in North Hatley, roughly 20 residents filled the hall to raise concerns about infrastructure, traffic safety, access to communal spaces, and village planning. Mayor Marcella Davis-Gerrish presided over the session, which covered both local frustrations and recent municipal achievements.

Master plan nearing adoption

Mayor Davis-Gerrish reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to proactive, resident-led development through a new master plan, which will be publicly presented on Sept. 23. Adoption is slated for Oct. 1.

Unlike earlier planning efforts in 2012 and 2021 that were never implemented, this plan will guide bylaw development and zoning. “This plan will put North Hatley residents in the driver’s seat,” she wrote in a recent municipal bulletin. The village has set aside funds to ensure enforcement and integration.

Emergency water repair draws praise—and questions

The Labour Day weekend water main break dominated early discussion. Public works staff and the mayor remained on site from Friday afternoon until early Saturday morning. “It was anything but a simple repair,” said Davis-Gerrish, thanking 3M and public workers for their overnight effort.

Residents affected by the incident expressed appreciation but also concern over the quality of existing infrastructure. A retired engineer urged council to conduct a technical evaluation: “These pipes should last 40 years—there are examples in Germany that last over 90.”

Council acknowledged the urgency and confirmed that a review is underway. Staff believe recent strain from a nearby fire and hydrant usage may have contributed to the rupture. A request for infrastructure funding had already been submitted to the province.

Residents push back against pathway ‘annexation’

A court decision allowing partial privatization of a long-used communal pathway between Rue Wadleigh and Rue Lebaron sparked passionate appeals. Residents described the trail as a piece of North Hatley’s soul.

“I’m absolutely astonished that an individual could decide to annex a road I’ve been walking on since 1970,” said one speaker, calling the path a symbol of communal spirit. Another asked to be connected with the citizens’ group challenging the decision.

Council voted to retain legal experts to analyze the ruling and explore options to preserve access. “We’ll do what we can to preserve these for the municipality and for the citizens,” Davis-Gerrish said. “This time it’s your neighbourhood—next time, it could be another.”

Community action helps prevent fires

Two separate fire incidents were reported over the preceding week, both averted by quick thinking and local collaboration.

Former mayor Michael Page spotted smoke coming from a home on Sherbrooke Hill and roused the sleeping homeowner before using an extinguisher and garden hose to slow the flames. Fire crews arrived shortly after.

In another case, a public works employee noticed a hedge fire on Chemin du Lac. He stopped his truck, deployed a fire extinguisher, and found a hose to contain the blaze before the fire department arrived.

“I’ve always been in awe of the fire department—they run in when others run away,” said Davis-Gerrish.

Parking, speeding, and access frustrations on River Street

Resident Mike Munkittrick criticized the lack of progress on paid parking infrastructure, citing years of deferrals. He also described River Street as a “zoo,” recounting repeated car accidents and loud early morning traffic over speed bumps.

Council said paid parking is still under study, with a mandate to find a town-wide solution. “We don’t want to just shift the problem to side streets,” Davis-Gerrish said. Speed bumps were described as temporary, with more permanent and less disruptive traffic-calming options, such as road narrowings, under consideration.

Gym access restored, recreation expanded

After the end of a previous arrangement, North Hatley negotiated a new agreement with the local elementary school to access the gymnasium on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday evenings. Pickleball, badminton, and possibly volleyball will now be available to residents.

“We’re very happy with this,” said Davis-Gerrish. “The school was more than happy to share.”

Finances improving after years of debt

The mayor reported steady progress in reducing municipal debt—from nearly $6.9 million in 2019 to just under $4 million in 2024. Surpluses are projected to continue, and the village anticipates eliminating its debt entirely within five years.

“This opens the door to improving services, lowering taxes, or both,” said Davis-Gerrish. The new master plan will inform a long-term financial strategy to stabilize North Hatley’s budget.

Other updates

• Mill Building Redevelopment: A 22-unit condo project is set to begin construction this fall on the site of the demolished mill.
• Pollock Rink: Designs for a new covered, refrigerated rink in River Park are in development and will be presented to the public.
• Environmental Initiatives: Council approved the installation of a washing station using $50,000 in grant funding and moved forward with regulatory compliance to unlock TECQ infrastructure support.
• Cultural Symbol: A “generation chair” will be placed at council meetings to represent future generations and youth perspectives in local decision-making.
• Mobile Saunas: Council approved a three-year agreement with Solstice Sauna to operate seasonal mobile therapeutic saunas at the federal dock from October to April.

Election approaching

Council appointed Director General Benoît Tremblay as returning officer for the Nov. 2 municipal election and approved salary scales for election staff.

Mayor Marcella Davis-Gerrish, who confirmed her intention to seek another term in earlier media coverage, is expected to be a candidate in the upcoming vote.

Residents are encouraged to attend the Sept. 23 master plan presentation or visit the municipal website for more details.

The meeting lasted over and hour and a half with the next scheduled for Oct. 1.

William Crooks
From left to right: Alexandre Vachon, executive chef at Manoir Hovey | Relais & Châteaux; Éric Arseneault, director of the Centre de formation professionnelle 24-Juin; Patrick Guillemette, assistant director general of administration at the Centre de services scolaire de la Région-de-Sherbrooke; Chantal Bérubé, assistant director of programs at the Vieux-Sherbrooke pavilion; and Stéphanie Audet-Couture, infographics student and designer of the new brand image

Sherbrooke’s Centre 24-Juin unveils renamed pavilion and upgraded public services

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Sherbrooke’s Centre de formation professionnelle 24-Juin officially unveiled the new identity and upgraded facilities of its Vieux-Sherbrooke pavilion on Sept. 9. The now-renamed Pavillon du tourisme et de l’hôtellerie de Sherbrooke (PTHS) serves as a hub for professional training in the tourism and hospitality sectors, and the event marked the completion of phase one in a broader revitalization effort.

In addition to introducing a new name that better reflects its mandate, the Centre launched new branding and services for its school restaurant, cafeteria, and retail food counter. The changes are part of an ongoing plan to enhance learning environments, boost the visibility of professional training programs, and expand services to the local community.

“It’s a good day for us,” said Éric Arsenault, Director of the Centre 24-Juin. “It’s been a long time that we’ve been trying to change the image of our learning and vocational school for this section, and we made it—with the hard work of both students and teachers”.

Updated names, refreshed spaces

The initiative includes new designations for the school’s public-facing services:

• The former restaurant-école La Petite-Bourgogne is now Le Wellington | resto-école
• The cafeteria becomes Le Well24 | bistro
• The retail food counter is now known as Wellington | comptoir saveurs

The names pay tribute to Sherbrooke’s Wellington Street and the city’s culinary history. “The name of our resto-école recalls Wellington Street, the famous Boeuf Wellington dish, and the historic Wellington Hotel,” explained Chantal Bérubé, Deputy Director of the Centre’s food and tourism programs.

“This is only phase one,” Bérubé said during the ceremony. “More services will be offered in the cafeteria and restaurant, including extended hours and additional menu options. And our new counter will showcase seasonal flavours based on student learning—from seafood to pastries and gourmet dishes”.

Branding by students, for students

The visual identities for the revamped services were developed by students in the Centre’s infographics program. A design contest held last spring selected the work of student Stéphanie Audet-Couture, who presented her clean, modern branding for the restaurant, bistro, and counter during the event.

The graphic design incorporates circular motifs and sleek fonts that represent dynamism and prestige. Audet-Couture explained her choices to the crowd, noting how the design reflects the energy and professionalism expected in hospitality settings.

“The whole project was incorporated into the curriculum, and students really enjoyed it,” said Arsenault. “It’s also a great way to make them feel proud of their contribution.”

Industry support and long-time partnerships

The event also highlighted long-standing partnerships with local industry players. Chef Alexandre Vachon from Manoir Hovey, a Relais & Châteaux establishment in the Eastern Townships, spoke of the important relationship between his kitchen and the Centre.

“We’ve had many students from 24-Juin complete internships and go on to work with us,” said Vachon. “It’s always a pleasure to welcome new talent who bring passion and fresh perspectives to our team.”

According to Arsenault, the relationship with Manoir Hovey has lasted for years. “Many of our teachers and students have passed through its doors,” he said in a follow-up interview. “It’s an important site for stages and summer work.”

A growing English-speaking presence

Although the Centre is francophone, Arsenault noted that a number of Anglophone students enrol at PTHS because it’s the only place in the region offering specialized professional training in fields like sommelier service, pastry, and hotel reception. “We see a lot of students from English schools come to the 24th of June,” he confirmed.

More than a rebrand

The changes are not merely cosmetic. The upgraded facilities feature more contemporary aesthetics—moving away from the outdated 1980s burgundy-and-forest-green décor—and now open onto views of the Saint-François River. In future phases, further upgrades are planned, including furniture made in-house by students in welding, carpentry, and cabinetry programs.

Patrick Guillemette, Assistant Director General at the Centre de services scolaire de la Région-de-Sherbrooke, closed the event by recalling his own days teaching at the Centre more than 25 years ago.

“Back then, the colours hadn’t changed much,” he joked, before turning serious. “This rebranding is a great step forward. The School Service Centre is proud to support the work of this incredible team, and I can’t wait to see what comes next.”

Programs and public services

More than 200 students attend the PTHS annually. Training programs include:

• Butchery, cooking, and pastry
• Hotel reception and restaurant service
• Contemporary restaurant pastry and sommelier training

The Wellington | comptoir saveurs opened to the public on Sept. 10, and services at the resto-école and bistro will expand throughout the year.

Sherbrooke residents are encouraged to visit the facilities to sample gourmet creations made and served by students in a professional setting. “We want the population to come use our services—to try the restaurant, enjoy the bistro, and take home great local products,” said Arsenault.

For more information or to register for programs, visit centre24juin.ca/pavillon-tourisme-hotellerie-sherbrooke.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A powerful 6.0 magnitude earthquake that struck Afghanistan has left hundreds of thousands without shelter, prompting international aid responses and quiet sorrow within Sherbrooke’s Afghan immigrant community. While the local ties to the hardest-hit regions are limited, the emotional toll is still being felt.

“People are sad”: local Afghani leader shares community reaction

M Shah Ismatullah Habibi, a Sherbrooke-based spokesperson and representative for the local Afghan community, spoke with The Record on Monday. Although most Afghani families in Sherbrooke hail from Kabul and the northern regions of the country, rather than the east where the earthquake struck, Habibi confirmed that the tragedy has had a psychological impact.

“Even if not from the same area, the people are sad [about] what is happening,” Habibi said, noting that Afghanistan’s mountainous terrain and poor infrastructure have made rescue and relief efforts extremely difficult.

The earthquake hit while people were asleep in their homes, collapsing thousands of mud-brick dwellings and forcing entire communities into the open. According to Habibi, the government in Afghanistan is ill-equipped to assist. “The Taliban government, these people don’t have a lot of help giving to the people,” he said. “Economy is very bad also.”

Though no Sherbrooke families appear to have been directly impacted, the news has travelled fast among the diaspora. “I heard it from media, some friends,” Habibi said. “There [are] no highways there… it’s very difficult for the people.”

Limited local action—but not for lack of concern

Habibi confirmed that no formal relief efforts have been organized by Sherbrooke’s Afghan community. “It’s very difficult to send [help] from here, from Canada,” he said, adding that newcomers in the Eastern Townships are often still struggling to settle themselves.

“I didn’t hear anything [locally] for about help. The economy here [for immigrants] is difficult. A lot of them are newcomers,” he explained. “Even if the people are able to send money, it’s difficult to get it to the right people.”

He also said that no federal officials or aid organizations have reached out to his community for coordination or support.

ShelterBox responds internationally

While local activity is minimal, organizations like ShelterBox Canada have launched emergency efforts to respond to the devastation. The charity, which provides emergency shelter and essential aid, announced it is working with on-the-ground partners in Afghanistan to deliver robust tents, water filters, blankets, and other critical supplies.

“This is a catastrophe layered on top of an existing crisis,” said ShelterBox Canada Executive Director Stephanie Christensen in a press release. Even before the earthquake, nearly half of Afghanistan’s population—approximately 23 million people—were already in need of humanitarian assistance. “People are now sleeping outside, exposed to the elements and in fear of aftershocks.”

ShelterBox noted that many families returning to Afghanistan after fleeing to Pakistan and Iran in recent years are now finding their homes destroyed or occupied. An estimated 30,000 people are crossing remote borders daily with nothing but the clothes on their backs.

Access remains one of the greatest challenges. Rugged terrain, landslides, and damaged roads have significantly slowed the delivery of aid. ShelterBox is exploring both global stockpiles and local procurement options to get tents into the disaster zone as fast as possible.

Canadians wishing to contribute to ShelterBox’s efforts can do so via their website: www.shelterboxcanada.org.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Fire crews across the Eastern Townships responded to six separate incidents over a 48-hour period from Thursday to Saturday, taxing local resources and showcasing the readiness and resilience of regional firefighters. From vegetation and cooking fires to devastating structure losses, each incident posed unique challenges—but no injuries were reported.

North Hatley hedge fire narrowly avoids home

The first call came in at 1:41 p.m. Thursday on Chemin du Lac in North Hatley. What was initially reported as a building fire turned out to be a vegetation fire sparked by amateur electrical landscaping work.

“We’re confident it was electrical,” said Stephen Nicholson, Director of the Régie incendie Memphrémagog Est (Memphremagog East Regional Fire Authority). “There was decorative trench wiring running along a cedar hedge that shorted out.”

Firefighters from Station 4 in North Hatley responded quickly and prevented the flames from reaching the home.

Attic fire in North Hatley prompts major response

At 7:52 p.m. Thursday, firefighters were called to a confirmed structure fire on Sherbrooke Street in North Hatley. Crews from Stations 2 (Fitch Bay), 3 (Ayer’s Cliff), 4 (North Hatley), and mutual aid from Waterville were mobilized—about 40 firefighters in total.

The fire was contained to the attic and part of the ground floor of a single-family home. The occupant escaped safely after being alerted by a passerby. While the home had working smoke detectors, the fire had not yet triggered them.

“The smoke hadn’t reached them yet,” Nicholson explained. “The passerby’s actions made a big difference.”

Early morning blaze destroys Fitch Bay home

Less than 10 hours later, at 5:29 a.m. Friday, fire crews were dispatched to Remick Street in Fitch Bay. Despite the house being just down the road from Station 2, the building was already fully engulfed in flames by the time firefighters arrived.

“The fire moved fast,” said Nicholson. “The occupant was woken by a smoke detector and was able to evacuate safely. That likely saved his life”.

Crews from Stations 1 (Stanstead), 2 (Fitch Bay), and 3 (Ayer’s Cliff) responded. The structure was a total loss.

Cooking fire in North Hatley apartment quickly controlled

While crews were still clearing the Fitch Bay site late Friday morning, another call came in from an apartment building on Massawippi Street in North Hatley. This time, the source was a cooking fire.

“It was confined to the apartment of origin,” Nicholson confirmed. “The building was evacuated as a precaution, but all residents were able to return later that day.”

Stations 3 and 4 handled the incident. Damage was limited to a kitchen appliance.

Sawyerville auction building lost to flames

Friday afternoon, fire consumed the Encan Sawyerville (Sawyerville Auction) on Route 253 in Cookshire-Eaton. The Lafaille family-owned facility was a key regional livestock hub, hosting weekly auctions and major specialized sales throughout the year.

The building, in operation for 55 years, was declared a total loss. When The Record visited the scene mid-afternoon, firefighters were finishing suppression efforts, but a police safety perimeter in place prevented media from approaching to ask for additional information. As of press time, local chief of operations Marcel Charpentier had not responded to a request for comment.

Ogden family escapes flames thanks to quick thinking

The sixth fire occurred early Saturday morning in Ogden. Stanstead Battalion Chief Chris Goodsell told The Record that the residents were woken by the flames and evacuated safely. They called 911 from a neighbouring home, as their phones were left behind.

“There’s no suspicion of foul play,” Goodsell said. “The building is salvageable.” The Red Cross was on scene assisting the family at the time of his call.

Stations 1 (Stanstead), and 2 (Fitch Bay), responded to this call.

No injuries, but resources stretched

Nicholson praised his firefighters for their endurance and professionalism under pressure.

“Station 3 in Ayer’s Cliff ran three of the four [Memphremagog East] calls, and Station 4 in North Hatley ran three as well,” he said. “It was an exceptional 24 hours.”

He emphasized that quick mobilization, teamwork, and working smoke detectors were key to preventing tragedy.

“Smoke detectors genuinely save lives,” Nicholson said. “Nobody got hurt. We can’t ask for more than that.”

William Crooks
From left to right: Luc Ménard, president and managing partner, Norea Capital; Rodier Grondin, CEO, Motrec International; Paul Corriveau, senior partner, Norea Capital; and Blair McIntosh, outgoing CEO, minority shareholder and director, Motrec International.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Motrec International, the Sherbrooke-based manufacturer of industrial electric vehicles with clients in 16 countries, has been acquired by Montreal investment firm Norea Capital. The announcement was made Friday morning at the company’s headquarters on boulevard de Portland, marking a major turning point for the local flagship that has grown into a global player in specialized electric vehicles.

Blair McIntosh, outgoing CEO and owner, was a central figure at the press conference. Widely recognized as a leading voice in the anglophone business community of the Eastern Townships, McIntosh reflected on a 15-year journey at Motrec, where sales increased tenfold under his leadership. “It has been an honour and a privilege to have worked with such a loyal and highly skilled team to help shape Motrec into the thriving world-class company that it is today,” he said, adding that the company is now well-positioned to “accelerate into its next phase of growth with even greater momentum.”

A Quebec investment

For McIntosh, ensuring Motrec remained firmly rooted in Sherbrooke was non-negotiable. “When I did the research to find an investor, a buyer, one of my criteria was to find a Quebec company. For me, the operations here and the jobs here were primordial,” he told reporters.

That approach resonated with Norea Capital. “We believe that Motrec has developed a fairly unique positioning over the years,” said Norea President and Managing Partner Luc Ménard, explaining that the firm had been following the company for years before talks began. He noted that Motrec’s reputation among clients and distributors for producing “the most solid, the most reliable, the most robust product” confirmed the firm’s decision to invest.

Founded in 2020 during the pandemic as a spinoff from the National Bank, Norea manages $560 million in assets and now counts Motrec as its 20th investment. The firm partners with Quebec business families, the government of Quebec, and the National Bank to support companies in growth, acquisitions, and governance.

A new CEO

As part of the transaction, Rodier Grondin, formerly president of Princecraft Boats in Princeville, was named Motrec’s new CEO. Grondin described the opportunity as both professional and personal. “My goal is to make a Quebecois company grow at another level. We absolutely have to continue to develop locally here, but internationally,” he said, stressing the importance of keeping Motrec’s headquarters in Sherbrooke while expanding abroad.

Grondin, who grew up in the Beauce region and has worked with major corporations, called Motrec “a genuine example of Canadian innovation and expertise” and expressed enthusiasm about building on the company’s strong foundations.

Global contracts and expansion

A press release states that Motrec already serves a prestigious list of clients, from automotive manufacturers such as Ford, Stellantis, Tesla, Honda, and Subaru, to companies like Kraft, Walmart, FedEx, and Boeing. The company has achieved notable international breakthroughs, including contracts with Stellantis facilities in Mexico, the United States, and Canada. “It’s going to be a game changer for our company because the volume of vehicles that we’re going to produce for this contract over the next two years will be huge,” McIntosh said.

Motrec exports to 48 U.S. states and multiple international markets, with about 70 per cent of sales going to the American market. The company plans to continue expanding globally, particularly in South America and the Middle East, and is exploring strategic acquisitions outside Quebec.

Local roots

Despite its global reach, Motrec’s base remains firmly local. The company operates out of a 70,000-square-foot facility in Sherbrooke’s industrial park, employing 90 people and working with more than a dozen suppliers in the Eastern Townships, which together employ over 300 people. “More than 50 per cent of our materials come from the region,” McIntosh pointed out.

He also emphasized the importance of maintaining Sherbrooke as the heart of operations. “There is nothing, there is no company that approaches what we do here,” McIntosh said, arguing that Quebec’s expertise in engineering and manufacturing sets Motrec apart from competitors abroad.

A CEO with gas still in the tank

Although stepping back from day-to-day operations, McIntosh confirmed he will remain as a minority shareholder and member of the board of directors. At the press conference, he was clear that his entrepreneurial career is far from over. “I have no intention of taking my retirement. I have a lot of things to do… I still have a lot of gas in my tank,” he said, drawing smiles from those in attendance.

This transaction marks the sixth company McIntosh has sold in his 27-year career. His earlier ventures include Beckwith-Bemis, a Sherbrooke-based firm he sold in 2007 that still operates today. By his own account, McIntosh intends to continue contributing to Quebec’s business community and exploring new opportunities.

For Norea and Grondin, the focus now turns to Motrec’s next phase: developing new products, expanding capacity, and strengthening its international presence. “In many markets, the company is only skimming the surface,” said Ménard. “We are fully committed to providing Motrec with the means to achieve its ambitions and reach the next level – both at home and around the world.”

Courtesy
Steve Pankovitch at his home in Lennoxville, where he spoke over the phone about his decision to run for borough president and his vision for preserving the community’s charm

By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative

Long-time Lennoxville resident Steve Pankovitch has officially entered the race for borough president in the Nov. 2 municipal election, running as an independent with a platform focused on protecting the borough’s distinct identity, resisting urban sprawl, and revitalizing the downtown core.

“I was born and raised here. I raised my three kids here. My wife taught at Lennoxville Elementary her whole career,” Pankovitch said in a recent interview. “I love Lennoxville, and anybody who knows me knows what a passion it is.”

Pankovitch previously served as president of the Lennoxville Residents Association, which he said once counted over 800 members. That experience, along with a lifelong connection to the community and years of global travel, has shaped his perspective. “When I come back home, I just can’t believe how lucky I am to live here,” he said.

His central motivation for running is to raise Lennoxville’s profile within the broader city of Sherbrooke. “I want the other councillors to look at Lennoxville the way I do,” he said, calling the borough “a business centre with deep history,” highlighting Bishop’s University and the Lennoxville Golf Club as examples of longstanding institutions that contribute to the area’s unique character.

A key concern for Pankovitch is urban sprawl, which he said is encroaching on Lennoxville’s green spaces. “It’s the last piece of woods we have in Sherbrooke,” he said, referring to the Ascot-Lennox forest at the top of the hill. As a current member of the forest’s board of directors, he said he’s committed to protecting it from what he described as “money-hungry developers” looking to build housing with “two cars in the front yard and not much thought about beautification.”

Pankovitch also stressed the need for better upkeep of public spaces. “Just get them to pick up the large garbage,” he said, referring to the frequent sight of discarded furniture along College Street. He added that with more attention, Lennoxville’s downtown could become “a real showcase for Sherbrooke.”

He cited examples from other nearby towns. “If you look at Coaticook and Compton… their downtown cores are much better,” he said. “With a little bit of attention and support, [ours] can be too.”

Revitalizing the downtown core and unifying the business community through events is another of Pankovitch’s priorities. He wants Lennoxville to be appreciated not just for what it is, but for what it can become—a vibrant, diverse small town that contributes to Sherbrooke’s overall identity.

When asked about recent controversies, Pankovitch didn’t mince words on the issue of the proposed bike lanes along Queen Street. “I have a strong opinion,” he said, criticizing the data used by the city as “completely false and wrong.” He argued that the traffic study was done at a time when students weren’t in town and failed to reflect real usage patterns.

“There’s already a parking issue. What do you do when you have an 18-wheeler going to deliver beer at PML and there’s one lane?” he asked. “It’s going to block traffic.” He said local businesses were not properly consulted and warned against investing heavily in a project that could harm the downtown’s functionality. “Nobody I’ve spoken to says that’s a need right now—quite the opposite.”

Pankovitch is also critical of the influence of political parties at the municipal level. “I’m absolutely an independent,” he said, calling party politics in Sherbrooke “a little Trump sort of thing” where entire groups vote in lockstep. He emphasized the financial imbalance as well. “There’s almost a half a million dollars from our taxpayers’ dollars funding those political parties,” he claimed. “Who’s paying for the signs I put up here? Me.”

Pankovitch’s candidacy adds another independent voice to what is already shaping up to be a crowded and competitive race in Lennoxville.

Alongside Pankovitch, Kerwins Saint-Jean, Jennifer Garfat, André Duncan, and Bert Collins are also running for the borough presidency—a role that doubles as Lennoxville’s representative on Sherbrooke’s city council (District 3.0). Saint-Jean is running under the Sherbrooke Citoyen banner with a platform emphasizing public transit and environmental protection. Garfat, currently a councillor, is running as an independent. Duncan is representing Vision Action Sherbrooke, and Collins, a former councillor, is also running as an independent.

In Fairview (District 3.2), the candidates currently confirmed are Guillaume Lirette-Gélinas (Sherbrooke Citoyen – incumbent), Frank Gilbert (independent), Norman Green (Vision Action Sherbrooke).

In Uplands (District 3.1), two candidates have expressed interest to date: Daniela Fernandes (Sherbrooke Citoyen), Claude Charron (independent and current borough president).

William Crooks
Residents filled the Austin town hall the night of Sept. 2, pressing council for answers about a controversial development project on chemin Fisher

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

More than 50 residents and several members of the media packed Austin’s town hall Sept. 2 to demand answers from council regarding a controversial development on chemin Fisher. Accusations of environmental damage, legal violations, and insufficient oversight swirled as citizens pressed municipal officials on how a supposed orchard and vineyard project allegedly turned into an unauthorized private golf course on protected agricultural land.

The heated meeting was presided over by Mayor Lisette Maillé, who acknowledged the unusually high turnout. “Thank you, everyone, for being here. It’s not often we see the room this full,” she said, adding, “It would be nice if it were for regular municipal business.” The municipality’s handling of the issue—centred around landowner Glenn Chamandy—has triggered provincial scrutiny, community outcry, and widespread media coverage.

Residents demand answers

Much of the meeting focused on whether the municipality responded appropriately to mounting evidence that the land was being used for a private golf course—despite permits issued for an orchard. According to a May 2025 order from the Commission de protection du territoire agricole du Québec (CPTAQ), Chamandy’s development on chemin Fisher involved illegal work in protected maple stands and agricultural zones, as well as possible wetland disturbances.

Johanne Lavoie, president of Memphrémagog Conservation Inc., challenged council on its role. “The CPTAQ and the Environment Ministry have condemned this work. Why has the municipality remained silent?” she asked. “The evidence is overwhelming—photos, notices, orders.”

Mayor Maillé rejected that characterization. “The municipality has not been silent,” she replied. “We’ve explained the situation in media interviews. Our inspectors are on the ground. We’re conducting our own investigations—within our jurisdiction.”

She clarified that the town is investigating potential violations in the “white zone,” where municipal powers apply, while the CPTAQ and provincial ministry oversee protected wetlands and forests. “We’re not rushing into a legal trap,” she said. “We need solid evidence before acting.”

Concerns over inspections and oversight

Residents questioned how the municipality failed to detect months of land clearing and construction. Several recounted seeing large trucks carrying logs and rocks, wondering why this did not trigger earlier action. One speaker noted, “You need a permit to cut a single tree in Austin. How did hundreds of trucks go unnoticed?”

Maillé admitted that while one inspection took place in October 2023, no further visits were made until after concerns were raised. “Our former inspector did go to the site and was told it was an orchard. Based on that, there was no follow-up at the time.”

Pressed further, she said, “Could we have been more vigilant? Maybe. But the area is large. Multiple properties are under development. Not all trucking activity is tied to this one site.”

She emphasized that while oversight could have been stronger, the town has limited personnel. “We’re not making excuses,” she said, “but we don’t have unlimited inspectors.”

Staffing challenges and next steps

Council confirmed that Austin is in the process of hiring a new part-time inspector and that organizational changes are being considered for the 2026 budget. “We need to make the job attractive,” Maillé said. “It’s hard to find and retain inspectors. It’s not a popular profession.”

One speaker urged the town to “be ambitious” in its recruitment. “Austin has the means,” he said. “If we need five inspectors, hire five inspectors.”

Council acknowledged the point and received applause from the room. “We hear you,” Maillé responded. “We’re working on it.”

Transparency and legal caution

Several residents pressed the town to make public an upcoming third-party report on zoning interpretations. Maillé confirmed the report is expected shortly and will be discussed by council in the coming days. “The council will decide whether to release it publicly,” she said. “That’s always the case with reports we commission.”

Others pushed for immediate restoration of the affected land and a review of zoning regulations to prevent future cases. “Can we suspend work on the site while this is being sorted out?” one person asked. Maillé said legal advice would be sought on that question. “We can’t just shut things down without proper grounds,” she explained. “We need proof of wrongdoing first.”

Another speaker asked if contractors could be held accountable. Maillé responded, “Yes, both owners and contractors can be sanctioned under municipal law. We’ve done it before.”

The fines, however, are modest. The mayor outlined that for a corporation, the maximum fine for an infraction under the municipal code is $2,000. Illegal clear-cutting over one hectare could trigger fines between $15,000 and $100,000, depending on the case.

The road ahead

One resident asked whether the town would pursue land restoration under the law. Maillé said it would depend on the final analysis. “We first need to confirm which activities were non-compliant in our jurisdiction,” she said. “Then we’ll decide on the best course of action.”

Part of that confirmation will come from topographical surveys now underway. The town is comparing current site conditions to LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) data gathered several years ago. This will help determine where land was filled or excavated. “It’s the only way to measure the scale of earthworks,” she said.

The town’s timeline to issue infractions is one year from the date of formal observation. “We’re currently gathering evidence,” a staff member confirmed. “We don’t want to miss any details. Once a notice is issued, it’s locked in.”

Some residents expressed scepticism that justice will be done. “It can’t feel like rich people play by different rules,” one said. “The law has to apply equally.”

Heritage and regulatory gaps

Attention also turned to possible use of heritage protection tools. A member of a local heritage committee raised concerns about the destruction of views from a historic promontory known as Cape Gibraltar. “It’s iconic, and we’ve lost it,” she said. “Can we protect the landscape through heritage laws?”

Maillé confirmed that some areas of the property fall within a corridor of recognized landscape interest defined by the MRC. “We are looking into it,” she said.

Finally, a resident pointed out that the zoning bylaw does not define “golf course,” leaving room for interpretation. “Chamandy says it’s a recreational trail. We don’t agree,” Maillé said. “But it’s a grey area. We’ll need to look closely at that too.”

Legal framework and citizen engagement

The mayor concluded the meeting by reiterating that the town is proceeding carefully. “We’re not hiding anything,” she said. “We’re following the law. When we have solid evidence, we’ll act.”

While tensions remain high, residents were assured that investigations are progressing and legal recourse is being prepared.

Austin’s council is expected to revisit the matter at its next regular meeting. As the case continues to draw provincial attention, residents are likely to keep showing up in large numbers.

William Crooks
REVE Nourricier staff and volunteers on the forecourt of Basilique-Cathédrale St-Michel during the Sept. 2 de-paving, with the church in the background; the team removed sections of asphalt to make way for a new bioretention garden

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiaitive

REVE Nourricier led a community “de-paving” at Sherbrooke’s Basilique-Cathédrale St-Michel on Sept. 2, pulling up about 132 m² of asphalt to make room for a bioretention garden designed to divert more than 50 m³ of stormwater from the sewers each year. The half-day action, backed by a $25,000 Wawanesa Climate Champions grant, also aims to give nearby students and neighbours a greener place to sit and breathe in the heart of downtown.

On the cathedral forecourt Tuesday morning, Director General Gabrielle Rondeau-Leclaire summed up the work at hand: “We are de-paving, so we’re removing the concrete in front of the church,” she said. “There will be a garden planted instead of this concrete. We’re removing a few parking spots—just a few—and turning them into green space.”

Rondeau-Leclaire said the site—wedged between two secondary schools—was chosen with youth in mind. “These two high schools, being downtown, don’t have much green space,” she said. “We want to help them enjoy more green space when they can rest,” she added, as students helped lift broken slabs.

Beyond shade and seating, the design is about water. “The intention is to bring green space and more fresh air, but also to manage water,” she said. “We have two small areas: one just by the roof, where water will infiltrate the soil, and another down the slope with a basin to collect water and filter it into the ground.”

She described the environmental logic in plain terms: asphalt “doesn’t let water sink.” It behaves “like plastic,” sending runoff straight to storm sewers, whereas planted areas let it soak and be cleaned by the soil. The group hopes the St-Michel project can serve as a pilot for more such sites across the city.

Turnout on Sept. 2 reflected that community focus. “Today we were 20 people,” Rondeau-Leclaire said, adding that they hope to double that for the next work bee.

According to the organisation, the de-paving was supported by a roster of local partners that handled everything from logistics and hauling to materials and refreshments, including the Corporation archiépiscopale catholique romaine de Sherbrooke, the Séminaire de Sherbrooke, Collège du Mont-Notre-Dame, Pixel Nord, Jardin Pro, Groupe Désourdy, Agropol, Hibisera and La Cime Arboriculture.

REVE Nourricier says the goal is as educational as it is environmental: to reduce impermeable surfaces, build small oases that cool and beautify streets, and show how modest interventions can meaningfully cut runoff in older neighbourhoods.

With the de-paving complete, the project now moves into its next phases: planting is scheduled for Sept. 16, and an inauguration is planned for Oct. 5 following Sunday Mass. Rondeau-Leclaire credited a coalition of church staff, funders and in-kind sponsors for bringing the effort to this point, calling it “a collective job” and saying the team is “really well surrounded” as the garden takes shape.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

With students returning to class last week, the Union des municipalités du Québec (UMQ) is calling on the provincial government to reinstate full funding for a program aimed at securing the areas around schools. The organization argues that recent cuts leave municipalities without the resources they need to ensure safe routes for children.

Funding cut raises concern

In 2023, the Quebec government committed to providing $38 million annually through the Programme d’aide au développement des transports actifs dans les périmètres urbains (TAPU). This funding was intended to help municipalities improve infrastructure around schools, such as adding speed bumps, widening sidewalks, installing pedestrian crossings, and building safe cycling paths. Municipalities matched provincial contributions, making the program a 50-50 partnership.

However, this year the government reduced its contribution from $38 million to $20 million, a move UMQ President and Mascouche Mayor Guillaume Tremblay described as a serious setback. “It’s a program that was announced less than three years ago as a priority, and then suddenly it’s cut in half. For us, that doesn’t make sense,” Tremblay said in an interview.

A program born of tragedy

Tremblay recalled that the program had been reinforced following the death of a young Ukrainian girl in Montreal in 2023, which sparked widespread concern about the safety of school zones. He emphasized that the funding allowed municipalities to act quickly and effectively. “It was really a good program. When the Quebec government gave the funding, the city had to put in the same amount, so both levels were making the effort to secure school areas,” he said.

A parent’s perspective

Beyond his role as UMQ president, Tremblay underlined his concern as a father. “Before being a mayor, a councillor, or a minister, we’re first and foremost parents or grandparents. My own children are starting kindergarten this year, so I’m very aware of how important it is that they’re safe walking from the bus or heading to school,” he said.

He stressed that municipalities had already invested significantly in safety projects and were prepared to continue, but that the funding cut leaves many initiatives stalled. “Some projects could have been selected, but because of lack of money they won’t go ahead,” he noted.

UMQ’s demands

In a statement issued Aug. 28, the UMQ urged the provincial government to restore the $38 million annual funding until 2028, ensure a fair distribution of speed cameras across the province, and allow municipalities to participate in future procurement of photo radar systems.

“Every child should be able to get to school safely, no matter where they live. Well-designed streets with adapted sidewalks and pedestrian crossings not only ensure safety but also encourage active transportation,” Tremblay said in the release.

Next steps

The UMQ is waiting to see how a possible cabinet shuffle may affect the file, but Tremblay said the organization will press the issue with the next minister of transport. “This will be a number one priority for us. We’ll bring it back to the table quickly, because it’s too important to put aside,” he said.

For more details, visit umq.qc.ca.

New proposed surgical regulations spark debate over costs and risks to public health network

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Quebec government’s proposed regulation to expand access to surgical services through private clinics has stirred immediate debate, with unions warning the measure could undermine the public system while driving up costs.

Health Minister Christian Dubé announced on Aug. 20 the prepublication of the draft Regulation on Access to Surgical Services in the Gazette officielle du Québec. The regulation, now subject to a 45-day consultation period, would allow patients facing long waits in the public network to be referred to private clinics for their procedures.

Dubé framed the measure as an overdue step toward easing surgical backlogs. “After several months of work, this is an important milestone to increase access to surgery and reduce wait times,” he said in a press release. “We have always said the public and private networks can be complementary, and we will continue to prioritize the interest of patients.”

What the regulation proposes

The draft regulation sets out a series of obligations for private providers when participating in the coordinated access system. Private medical centres and hospitals would be required to accept any patients referred through Santé Québec and to deliver the procedure within the time limit established by the referral system.

All surgeons and dentists providing surgical services would also be bound to use the centralized referral and distribution system, ensuring patients are not cherry-picked or left in limbo.

In addition, Santé Québec would be required to keep patients informed of their place in line, their priority ranking, and the average wait times associated with their procedure. The regulation specifies that digital tools should be the preferred method of communication.

The measure would come into force 15 days after its publication in the Gazette officielle du Québec.

Union rep: “A false solution”

Danny Roulx, national representative for the Alliance du personnel professionnel et technique de la santé et des services sociaux (APTS), told The Record in an Aug. 28 interview that the regulation presents the private sector as a “miracle fix” when, in reality, it could deepen the crisis in the public system.

“For us, it’s clear that the government is selling this private option as if it’s a miracle that will save the health network,” Roulx said. “But the reality is, the private sector costs up to twice as much. Quebecers will be the ones paying more for surgeries.”

He pointed to a straightforward comparison: carpal tunnel surgery in private clinics costs about $908, while the same procedure in the public system is evaluated at $495. “If the government pays the private sector, it pays more than it would in the public system,” he stressed.

Roulx also questioned the government’s narrative that patients would benefit from faster access without trade-offs. “It looks like an easy solution, but really it’s opening the door wide to private care and slowly dismantling the public network,” he said.

Fears of losing staff to private clinics

Perhaps more pressing for Roulx is the risk of staff drain. He warned that allowing private clinics to expand their surgical capacity will inevitably mean recruiting nurses, laboratory staff, and other professionals away from the public system.

“Each time we fund operations in the private sector, we risk losing staff from the public network,” he explained. “That will leave us even more short-staffed in the public system, making the situation worse.”

He described the process as “vampirizing” the public system, adding: “The more we encourage private surgery, the more we’ll lose people from the public side. We’ll see physicians, nurses, imaging specialists and lab staff pulled out, leaving hospitals with even greater shortages.”

Roulx fears this will set in motion a self-perpetuating cycle. With fewer staff in hospitals, wait times in the public network could rise, giving more justification to shift patients toward private providers, which in turn may further weaken the public sector.

Long-term risks and financial impacts

Roulx also raised concerns about what could happen once private providers become entrenched in the system.

“The day the private sector has the upper hand and tells the government it wants more money for surgeries, we’ll be cornered because we won’t have the expertise left in the public system,” he said.

He argued that once the public sector becomes dependent on private partners to carry out routine surgeries, Quebec will lose its bargaining power. “We’ll be at their mercy, because we won’t have the in-house expertise to continue providing those services at scale,” he cautioned.

According to Roulx, this scenario has already played out in other provinces. “In Alberta, when they opened the door to more private surgeries, it ended up increasing overall costs,” he said. “We risk repeating the same mistakes here.”

Roulx also pointed out that many of the additional funds needed to support private surgery contracts would likely come from budget cuts in the public system. “If we’re giving $908 to a private clinic instead of $495 in a hospital, that extra money has to come from somewhere,” he said. “That means cuts to services, which weakens the network further.”

A precedent for more outsourcing

Roulx argued that Quebec has already been heading down a path of increased reliance on private contracts. He cited the growing use of “purchased services” in laboratories, where analyses are increasingly outsourced instead of performed by CIUSSS staff.

“We’ve seen more and more lab tests being outsourced to the private sector,” he said. “This regulation is another step in the same direction. And every step we take makes it harder to reverse course.”

He warned that if this trend continues, Quebec risks losing not only surgical expertise but also control over other parts of the health care system. “It’s a wheel that once it starts turning, we won’t be able to stop,” he said. “It could accelerate exponentially and dismantle the public network piece by piece.”

Government’s argument

Despite union concerns, the government maintains the measure is designed to ensure patients receive surgery within a reasonable time frame. Officials argue that the regulation is directly tied to reducing waiting list overruns, which have remained a persistent challenge in Quebec’s health care system for years.

By formalizing coordination between the public and private sectors, they contend, the regulation would prevent patients from languishing on waiting lists while private surgical capacity sits unused. Dubé has insisted that the goal is not to privatize health care, but to make sure “patients are prioritized, no matter where the surgery is delivered.”

Next steps and consultations

The consultation period on the regulation will remain open for 45 days, during which any interested party may submit written comments to Santé Québec. The government has invited input from unions, professional associations, and health care users.

Additional details on implementation, including how referrals will be managed, which types of surgeries will be covered, and how monitoring will take place, are expected to be announced in the coming months.

The regulation is being presented under the Loi sur la gouvernance du système de santé et de services sociaux, which allows Santé Québec to impose such mechanisms and obliges private providers to participate.

Broader reactions still pending

While the APTS has voiced strong opposition through Roulx, other key players have not yet commented publicly.

The Record contacted Stéphanie Goulet, president of the Fédération interprofessionnelle de la santé du Québec (FIQ), which represents tens of thousands of nurses and health professionals across the province. She did not respond before press time.

The Centre hospitalier universitaire de Sherbrooke Users’ Committee was also contacted but said it would only be ready to comment after its first meeting on the subject, scheduled for Sept. 4.

William Crooks
Councillor Guillaume Lirette-Gélinas, Borough President Claude Charron, and Councillor Jennifer Garfat conclude the Aug. 26 Lennoxville Borough Council meeting, which focused on shared path safety, Queen Street planning, and community funding initiatives

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Lennoxville Borough Council meeting on Aug. 26 drew attention to public safety on shared-use paths, persistent garbage issues, and the future of Queen Street, alongside the approval of several financial assistance requests. The meeting, presided over by Borough President Claude Charron, was attended by four residents.

Question period: Pedestrian and cyclist safety

The session’s most detailed exchange concerned a resident’s concerns about safety on a shared pedestrian and cycling path near Samuel-Gratham Street. The path, which is partly managed by private owners and maintained in part by the city, has become a focal point for safety complaints.

“I almost got knocked over the other day. Someone came on a bike with big tires going very fast,” the resident said, adding that many seniors use the path because alternatives are scarce. The discussion revealed that the path is not formally part of Sherbrooke’s official network but is commonly used by cyclists and walkers.

Charron explained that while the city does some maintenance—such as clearing debris and repairing surfaces—the arrangement is informal. “At the moment, it’s a sharing; the bikes are allowed, the pedestrians are allowed,” he said, noting the difficulty of enforcing single-use restrictions.

Suggestions included installing speed limit signage and requiring bike bells to alert pedestrians. “Normally, they should ring. It’s their responsibility in terms of security,” Charron said, emphasizing the need for cyclist education. He also suggested residents report incidents to facilitate patrol scheduling. The borough will investigate possible enforcement and signage measures, while confirming liability questions related to accidents.

Complaints about garbage and traffic violations

Other residents raised concerns about beautification efforts clashing with the reality of visible garbage. One participant remarked, “When they’re talking about spending money making the street beautiful, they need to keep everything beautiful, not garbage.” They cited delays in bulk waste pickup, with appointments stretching to four weeks.

Traffic safety also came under scrutiny. Residents reported cyclists ignoring stop signs and speeding cars on Queen Street. Charron advised that isolated incidents are hard to address but encouraged citizens to provide detailed reports to police for recurring issues.

Queen Street redesign sparks debate

A consultation on Queen Street’s future layout, held the previous evening, continued to stir strong feelings. The project, which includes upgrading crosswalks to provincial standards, has raised questions about parking availability and pedestrian safety.

“There were a lot of comments from the citizens, and these comments will be brought to the table,” Charron assured attendees. He stressed that no decisions are final: “It’s only the beginning; all the comments will be taken into consideration.” Planned upgrades include flashing lights at crosswalks to improve pedestrian visibility, a measure Charron described as “really efficient” in other locations.

Despite assurances, some residents expressed skepticism, fearing decisions were predetermined. Attendance at the consultation was high, with Councillor Jennifer Garfat estimating 180 participants.

Financial assistance approvals

Council approved several funding requests supporting local education and community life:

• Alexander Galt Regional High School will receive $1,000 for its sports program for the 2025–2026 school year. Charron noted this is “a very long-term support, as it is historic.”
• Bishop’s University secured $3,000 for its student patrol program, which monitors neighbourhood safety during peak student activity. The borough also approved $1,700 for scholarships and $3,000 for a new cultural integration project called Oui! Lunch, aimed at helping students learn French and explore Sherbrooke.
• Lennoxville Curling Club received $750 for the annual Borough Bonspiel in October, supporting a tradition where proceeds benefit local organizations.

Calendar adjustment before elections

Council modified its meeting schedule due to the municipal council’s dissolution ahead of elections. The final session will now take place on Oct. 3 at 11:30 a.m., instead of the originally scheduled 5 p.m. slot.

Community updates and events

Council members closed the meeting by highlighting local events: Rivières de Lumières on Sept. 12–13, Townshippers’ Day on Sept. 20, and the Pumpkin Festival on Sept. 28. Other activities include Grace Village’s quilt show on Sept. 5–6 and the Howard Park Rendezvous in early November.

Charron reminded residents that the Queen Street project originated from the need to update crosswalks for safety. “We’ve had many complaints… these crosswalks are going to be upgraded,” he said, noting flashing lights will be part of the improvements.

The meeting lasted a little over 45 minutes, with the next scheduled for Sept. 23.

William Crooks
A row of ETSB electric school buses is ready in Lennoxville for the first day of classes. The Eastern Townships School Board is welcoming more than 6,300 students across its 20 elementary schools, three high schools, and adult and vocational centres this fall. With full teaching staff secured and transportation fully staffed, the board is also moving toward fleet electrification as part of its long-term sustainability efforts.

Local schools open year with stability, new initiatives and budget challenges

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Eastern Townships School Board (ETSB) is launching the 2025–2026 school year with a stable student population, full teaching staff and a renewed focus on parent engagement, international programs and vocational training, even as financial uncertainty and budget disputes loom over the system.

Steady enrolment after a decade of growth

More than 6,300 students are enrolled across ETSB schools and centres this fall, marking a period of stability after over ten years of growth. “This steady number allows us to consolidate services while continuing to provide a strong educational experience for all students,” the board stated in a back-to-school release.

The board operates 20 elementary schools, three high schools, one adult education centre, two vocational training centres, and an international student program serving the Estrie, Montérégie and Centre-du-Québec regions.

Budget pressures and legal challenge

Council Chair Michael Murray addressed at an Aug. 26 council meeting the ongoing turbulence caused by government budget compressions, which were announced and then partially reversed over the summer. “You’ve had, as you know, major cuts announced and then unannounced. None of the deadlines have been respected in terms of delays for anything,” Murray said during the meeting.

He confirmed that English school boards, including ETSB, have launched legal action: “Collectively, the English school boards have taken a position of challenging the cuts in court on the grounds that administratively, none of the delays for consultation processes were respected… We have asked the courts to stay the application of the cuts,” he added.

Murray acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding government directives: “I suspect that the number of meetings our senior administrators have been attending indicates the ministry may still be in the dark about what the implications are,” he said. “I think going forward, we’re kind of the blind leading the blind.”

Full teaching staff secured despite challenges

Human Resources Director Caroline Dufresne delivered what she called “good news all around,” reporting that every posted teaching position has been filled. “As of today, all our teacher positions that have been posted this summer are filled. Students at ETSB will have their teacher, not just a teacher, but their teacher when they start the school year,” Dufresne said.

She added that 92 teaching positions and 284 support staff roles were filled since June, though some part-time and replacement positions remain open. “We do have a few positions left to post, including two kitchen roles and two special education technician positions,” she noted.

Priorities for the year: health, technology and engagement

Director General Kandy Mackey announced a series of updates aimed at enhancing safety, wellness and community involvement. Starting in October, all ETSB employees will have access to telemedicine services 24/7. “This includes unlimited virtual appointments with a doctor or nurse practitioner for short-term needs,” she said.

The board is also overhauling its health and safety structure to comply with Bill 59, moving from a centralized model to one that empowers schools directly. “By bringing prevention into daily life, we can create safer, healthier environments together where everyone’s voice and experience truly matter,” Mackey stated.

On the technology front, ETSB is transitioning its systems to the cloud to strengthen cybersecurity and comply with Quebec’s Law 25 on personal data protection. A new ETSB website featuring dedicated sections for schools, centres and community programs will launch in early 2026, accompanied by promotional videos for vocational programs in the spring.

International students and vocational boom

The board is welcoming 45 international students from China, Germany, Mexico and Spain this year. “Their presence enriches our classrooms and creates opportunities for cultural exchange,” the ETSB release said, noting the program is seeking additional host families for January and beyond.

Continuing education remains a growth sector. “The adult sector is booming,” Mackey said. ETSB now offers 25 programs in person and online, from welding and plumbing to computer graphics and francisation, along with Recognition of Acquired Competencies (RAC) sessions in the evenings.

Cellphone policy rests with schools

Murray addressed questions about the province’s widely publicized cellphone ban, clarifying that “the promised decree setting out the specifics has yet to see daylight.” He added that governing boards at each school will decide how to apply the directive: “This board will support whatever the local governing board decides is the best way to handle that.”

The Ministry has instructed that phones may only be used for pedagogical purposes or to support students with special needs; otherwise, they must stay in lockers.

Investments in infrastructure and student life

Despite budget limits, ETSB highlighted recent improvements across schools and centres. Lennoxville Vocational Training Centre unveiled new murals by a local collective, celebrating vocational programs. At Waterloo Elementary, IBM Bromont donated book bags filled with supplies and personalized messages for students. Princess Elizabeth Elementary raised $6,000 for Pervana’s Garden at its community barbecue, reinforcing ETSB’s focus on food literacy and outdoor learning.

Mackey also reported an air quality grant for updated cleaning equipment and confirmed that ear protection will be provided to music and physical education teachers following last year’s sound level testing.

Transportation ready, with greener options coming

Mackey said transportation services are fully staffed for the start of the school year. Murray added that ETSB is moving toward fleet electrification: “I understand there were some electric buses that arrived today, and more expected, so we’re moving… in the direction of electrifying the fleet,” he told commissioners.

Board voices optimism despite pressures

In closing remarks, Murray emphasized the transformative role of artificial intelligence in education. “We seem to be on the cusp of a revolution… Artificial intelligence has effectively made traditional homework pretty much irrelevant,” he said, predicting AI will have “as great or greater an impact” on classrooms as the introduction of one-to-one laptops two decades ago.

Mackey ended her welcome message with a reminder to keep students at the centre of all efforts: “Challenges lie ahead, but we’re confident in our collective strength—together as one family, one ETSB”.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Sherbrooke will mark the International Overdose Awareness Day on Friday with a full day of activities organized by IRIS Estrie, aimed at honouring lives lost, supporting affected families, and promoting safer drug use practices.

The event runs from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 505 Wellington Street South and includes health services, harm reduction education, and cultural activities in an open, community-oriented setting. “It’s a moment where we commemorate our loved ones that have passed and give information to the population about safe drug use and how to prevent overdosing,” said Delphine Lamoureux, coordinator of the Overdose Prevention Site (OPS) in Sherbrooke, in an Aug. 27 interview.

A day for remembrance and prevention

International Overdose Awareness Day is observed worldwide on Aug. 31. In Quebec, this day has been marked for two decades. For IRIS Estrie, it’s not only a time to reflect but also a chance to push for life-saving practices. “Because of the overdose crisis we have right now, this day is very important,” Lamoureux stressed.

A press release states that the event will feature a range of activities. From 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., visitors can access free, confidential screening for HIV, hepatitis C, and other STIs, in collaboration with the SIDEP of Sherbrooke. From 1 p.m., drug-checking services will be available, offered in partnership with Élixir. Later, from 1 p.m. to 10 p.m., supervised consumption services will allow individuals to use substances safely under the watch of trained staff.

Cultural and social elements round out the program: a food truck serving comforting dishes will be on site from 4 p.m., followed by a jam session and open mic at 5 p.m., where participants are invited to bring instruments and join in a shared music experience. “We want people to come and eat a great meal, get more informed, and just visit our organization,” Lamoureux said.

Practical advice for safer use

Lamoureux emphasized that overdose prevention starts with informed decisions. “To prevent overdose, it’s always better to use not alone,” she said. “Have a friend with you or come to an OPS. Test your drug, know what’s in it, and do it gradually. Avoid mixing substances and always have naloxone with you”.

IRIS Estrie is the only overdose prevention site in the Estrie region, offering supervised consumption, drug testing, and access to naloxone. The site operates Tuesday to Saturday, 1 p.m. to 10 p.m., and sees increasing demand. “There’s a lot more people coming in and using our services, and we have more situations where we needed to monitor the person,” Lamoureux noted.

Gaps and challenges

The region’s size and population needs present ongoing challenges. “Estrie is quite large,” Lamoureux acknowledged, adding that while discussions about mobile services for drug-checking are underway, permanent OPS coverage across the territory remains uncertain. “Every year is a battle to keep [our site] alive. We’re working with public health to make it permanent.”

She underlined the necessity for broader government investment. “If we want to tackle the overdose crisis, there needs to be money everywhere—in prevention, centres like ours, STI testing, safe supply, naloxone, and treatment. Access to treatment is sometimes difficult, and not everyone wants therapy. There need to be options because we’re talking about humans losing their lives.”

Breaking stigma, building community

According to Lamoureux, reducing stigma around drug use is essential to saving lives. “This event is an occasion to reduce the stigmatisation, promote harm reduction, and remind people that health and dignity must be at the heart of our collective actions,” she said.

IRIS Estrie encourages the public to attend Friday’s event, learn about harm reduction, and take advantage of the free services offered. Donations to support their work can be made online or by cheque, as the organization operates as a non-profit. “We’re always welcoming people to come by and try our services,” Lamoureux added.

For more information, visit the event’s Facebook page or contact IRIS Estrie at udii@irisestrie.org.

William Crooks

Lennoxville residents filled the Amédée-Beaudoin Community Centre on Aug. 25 for a public meeting on proposed changes to Queen Street, including a potential bike lane

Heated debate over Queen Street bike path as residents pack consultation meeting

By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative

Over 150 residents filled the Centre communautaire Amédée-Beaudoin on Aug. 25 for a highly anticipated public information and exchange session on Lennoxville’s infrastructure plans. The meeting, organized by the City of Sherbrooke, aimed to gather input on a proposed bike lane project along Queen Street, but the discussion quickly revealed deep divisions and frustrations among participants.

The event, moderated by independent facilitator Sonia Dumont, was billed as an opportunity to “present the project before plans and specifications are finalized, hear your concerns and aspirations, and provide food for thought for next steps.” Dumont stressed her neutrality, noting, “I am not an employee of the City of Sherbrooke, but a professional facilitator hired for this session… I commit to moderating in a spirit of openness and listening, and to act respectfully.”

Language dispute and ground rules spark early tension

Before any details of the project were presented, tensions surfaced over language. Dumont announced that the presentation would be delivered in French but assured participants they could ask questions in the language of their choice: “Tonight’s presentation will be in French, but please, at any time during the evening, feel free and comfortable to express yourself or to ask your question or to comment in the language that you prefer.”

Several English-speaking attendees objected, arguing that given Lennoxville’s demographics, the presentation should have been bilingual from the outset. One participant pressed, “Considering that a majority of us are English here, is there a reason why you’re not doing it in English?” The moderator ultimately promised translation throughout the session.

Adding to the friction, Dumont reminded the crowd that recording audio or video clips without authorization was prohibited, echoing the City’s participation charter. However, such restrictions have no legal basis under Quebec law for a public meeting.

What’s already decided—and what’s not

Dumont clarified at the outset what elements of the project were settled: “The work must be completed at the crosswalks… it’s mandatory to comply with Ministère des Transports et de la Mobilité durable standards by 2026. And based on the analysis, the only place suited for a bicycle link that addresses all needs and standards is along Queen Street.”

Beyond that, she emphasized, “there’s room for adaptation,” inviting comments on three themes: parking, safety and travel, and neighbourhood improvements.

City outlines rationale and timeline

Urban planning director Réal Girard and division head for sustainable mobility Anne-Sophie Demers presented the City’s case. The project, they explained, stems from Sherbrooke’s strategic plan to build “sustainable, inclusive, and safe communities” while addressing climate change and improving connectivity between Lennoxville and downtown Sherbrooke.

Key goals include creating a safer corridor for cyclists and pedestrians, especially students and commuters, and linking Lennoxville to the Route Verte and the wider regional bike network. The City also aims to take advantage of a provincially mandated upgrade of pedestrian crossings, which will see four intersections—Queen at Academy, in front of Maxi/Opto-Réseau, Queen and Church, and Queen and Downs—equipped with rapid-flash beacons and improved lighting by summer 2026.

As part of this opportunity, Sherbrooke proposes reconfiguring Queen Street to add one-way bike lanes on both sides, removing 49 parking spaces on the west side while retaining 51 on the east. “That’s the only way we can have two bike lanes, one on each side,” Demers said. The design would place the bike lane between parked cars and traffic on the east side and directly next to the curb on the west.

The project’s timeline includes:

• Summer 2025: Complete participatory process and present findings to elected officials.
• Fall 2025: Publish report and finalize designs.
• Winter 2026: Engineering work.
• Spring/Summer 2026: Construction begins.

Data and constraints

Girard noted that Queen Street carries over 12,000 vehicles daily—far above the 3,000 threshold for “shared street” concepts—and accommodates truck traffic and bus routes. For these reasons, scenarios like reducing speed to create a shared street or using the railway corridor were ruled out. “It’s impossible to move that road safely for bicycles in that sector,” Demers explained of the rail option.

Parking studies, based on eight counts between November 2024 and January 2025, show on-street spots average 30 per cent occupancy overall, though the busiest section between College and Speid reaches 80 per cent at times. Adjacent streets offer 282 additional public spaces within 330 metres.

Residents voice support—and outrage

The question period stretched for more than an hour, with strong opinions on both sides. Several business owners warned that losing parking would hurt commerce. “If customers can’t park right out front, they’ll go elsewhere,” one said, prompting applause. Another argued, “We’re not downtown Sherbrooke. People drive here for groceries and services. They need parking.”

Others worried about winter conditions and safety: “Who’s going to clear the bike lanes? What happens when snowbanks pile up?” one resident asked.

Supporters countered that the plan reflects modern mobility needs. “Students and young families want safe bike routes. If Lennoxville doesn’t adapt, we’ll fall behind,” one speaker said. Another added, “This is about choice. Nobody’s taking away cars—we’re just adding an option.”

Frustration also boiled over about the City’s approach. Some accused officials of deciding in advance. “You’re saying you’re listening, but it feels like this is already a done deal,” one attendee remarked, drawing murmurs of agreement. Others criticized communication, citing the unilingual presentation and the initial claim about recording restrictions.

Emotions spill beyond the meeting

Social media lit up after the meeting, with several residents describing the event as frustrating and one-sided. Posts criticized the lengthy focus on conduct rules and the City’s warning against recording, and some accused officials of pushing a “predetermined” project. Comments highlighted fears about losing parking, skepticism about winter maintenance of bike lanes, and concerns over cyclist behaviour. Others said the consultation felt like “smoke and mirrors,” while a few defended the need for safer cycling infrastructure.

What’s next

Officials reiterated that feedback will be analyzed and a summary published in fall 2025 before final designs are prepared. For now, only the crosswalk upgrades are guaranteed. Whether Lennoxville’s main street gets bike lanes—and at what cost to parking—remains unresolved.

Residents with further questions can email mobilite@sherbrooke.ca, the City confirmed during the meeting.

William Crooks
Sylviane Lavigne, director general, listens attentively as Mayor Nathalie Pelletier delivers her remarks during Tuesday’s press conference at Magog city hall

By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative

The City of Magog has cancelled plans to authorize an 18-unit community housing project on rue Desjardins after a new legal analysis confirmed a permanent non-construction servitude on the entire site.

Mayor Nathalie Pelletier made the announcement during a press conference on Aug. 26, stating that the decision will be formalized at the next municipal council meeting on Sept. 2. “This morning, we announced the end of the steps aimed at authorizing the project of 18 community housing on Desjardins Street,” she said.

The reversal follows a third external legal opinion that contradicted two previous assessments obtained during the project analysis phase. “We requested this additional review on June 26 after concerns were raised during a public information meeting,” Pelletier explained. “On Aug. 21, we received the results, and this recent report confirms the existence of a servitude of non-construction on the entire site.”

According to Pelletier, the city had acted “in good faith” based on earlier advice. “At no time did the opinions we received suggest there might be an obstacle on the targeted portion of the land,” she said. “We regret deeply that this divergence comes at such an advanced stage of the file. We assure you that we have acted with rigour and transparency throughout the process.”

Apologies and next steps

The mayor issued an apology to residents and community partners affected by the outcome. “On behalf of the council and the entire municipal administration, we extend our sincere apologies to the residents of the area, as well as to the organization Habitations l’Équerre,” she said. Pelletier acknowledged the project was significant given the “obvious need for affordable and community housing in Magog,” adding, “We will look at the possibility that it be carried out elsewhere, but no municipal land is currently available and ready to build in the short term.”

She invited private landowners to collaborate: “If any landowners have a site that could accommodate such a project, we invite you to contact us. We have seen this before, such as the Wilcox Street housing project, where land was donated by a private donor.”

How the decision unfolded

The city initially commissioned two legal opinions—one in 2022 and another in 2025—to clarify whether any servitude applied to the property. Both opinions concluded that the restriction affected surrounding areas but not the proposed site. The third review, however, revealed the servitude covers the entire lot, making construction impossible without the consent of affected property holders.

Pelletier confirmed the restriction is permanent. “It will be for life unless the rights holders renounce them, which they have no obligation to do. The law does not allow us to violate citizens’ rights, and we will respect them,” she said. Asked why the servitude had not been detected earlier, the mayor cited the complexity of historic property records. “These are old technical descriptions with changing lot numbers and water boundaries. It is far from simple research, and that is why we do not have the expertise internally.”

The mayor declined to disclose the cost of legal consultations, noting the matter is under review by the city clerk and could involve questions of liability. “We will not comment on that portion because as soon as it comes to insurance responsibility, we can’t comment,” she said.

Densification policy and pause on new projects

The announcement comes as Magog works on a new densification policy launched earlier this summer. Combined with the city’s urban plan, the policy will establish criteria for evaluating projects based on factors such as living environment, proximity to services, mobility, environmental impact, heritage integration, and infrastructure capacity.

“The population will be invited to take part in the reflection surrounding this guide over the coming months,” Pelletier said. Until the policy is completed, the city will not initiate any new authorizations for projects requiring regulatory amendments. “We are very solicited by promoters who wish to establish themselves in Magog, and we are grateful for that. But we need to take a step back to refine our tools and ensure successful densification and coherent development of our territory.”

William Crooks
Partners and representatives gather at the new supervised visitation park during Monday’s inauguration event in Sherbrooke

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Centre jeunesse de l’Estrie officially inaugurated its new supervised visitation park Monday morning at the Dufferin service point in Sherbrooke, offering a dedicated space where children and their parents can share moments of calm, play, and reconnection.

The project, years in the making, aims to transform challenging visits into positive experiences. “The reality is that life is not a game for everyone,” said Isabelle Grenier, executive director of the Fondation du Centre jeunesse de l’Estrie, which spearheaded the initiative. “For some children, it’s not all fun and games. Here, the goal is to spend a good moment with their parents in a safe setting.”

Grenier emphasized at the press conference that the foundation’s mission is to support youth in a variety of ways, from major undertakings like this to smaller gestures such as providing school supplies or funding therapeutic activities. “There’s a lot of beauty in what happens at Youth Protection,” she noted. “Interveners do exceptional work, and there are so many success stories that often go unheard because of confidentiality.”

A collaborative effort

The park, located behind the Centre jeunesse building at 340 Dufferin Street, is designed to host supervised family visits in a secure and welcoming environment. It includes child-friendly installations adapted to their needs. “This is much more than a play space,” said Stéphane Tremblay, president and CEO of the CIUSSS de l’Estrie–CHUS. “It’s a place where children, along with one or both parents, can interact and develop skills in a safe setting. Clinically, this is a significant gain.”

Tremblay highlighted the lengthy planning process behind the project: “What you see here is version seven of the park. It took time to imagine, refine, and deliver something that goes beyond what the public network typically offers. For that, we needed committed partners.”

A press release states that those partners include Groupe Beaucage, Gératek, Carpell, Fondation Bon départ, Canadian Tire, Excavation Robert Pothier, Carrière Saint-Dominique, Clôtures DB and Paysage Florentin, among others. Their contributions ranged from financial support to materials and labour, including installing synthetic turf and custom play structures.

For Groupe Beaucage, the choice to support the project was an easy one. “We’ve always believed that every gesture, big or small, can improve the daily lives of young people in the Estrie region,” said a company representative. “We wanted to give children and parents moments of lightness during supervised visits.”

Creating a space for families

For Stéphanie Jetté, director of Youth Protection, the park represents a major step forward. “It’s a warm, adapted, and safe environment where children can just be kids—play, laugh, and grow,” she said. “It’s also an invaluable tool for parents, giving them the chance to create memories and strengthen their role.”

According to Jetté, the space will benefit about 119 children locally. “During supervised visits, which can sometimes be stressful, this park becomes a precious ally for families and for the interveners who support them,” she explained.

The Fondation du Centre jeunesse de l’Estrie expressed deep gratitude to the donors, partners, and volunteers who helped bring the project to life. Board president Marie-Pascale Bélanger summed it up: “This park is the result of real teamwork. When a community comes together, we make it possible to better surround our children and those who accompany them.”

The foundation hopes the park will not only provide joy and comfort but also strengthen bonds between children and parents. “Every element was designed to encourage meaningful exchanges,” Bélanger said. “We’ve turned a vision into reality—a safe space where families can gather, share, and create lasting memories.”

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

North Hatley’s long-debated ice rink project will remain in River Park after the town announced a breakthrough that avoids previous engineering hurdles.

Mayor Marcella Davis-Gerrish confirmed in a recent update that “thanks to new technologies and the reassessment of previous alternatives…the ice rink will remain in River Park.” Earlier studies had indicated that poor soil conditions would require $800,000 in pilings to stabilize the site, forcing the town to consider moving the rink to the Pleasant View property.

The decision comes after months of uncertainty and a strong response from residents who opposed sacrificing the lakeside tennis courts for the rink. A petition that circulated earlier this month gathered close to 200 signatures. “We all worked hard getting close to 200 signatures and [are] very happy the mayor and council decided to go with the rink in the park,” said resident Maureen Hallam, who helped organize the effort with several others, in a Aug. 25 conversation. “We were never against the rink. It’s an amazing contribution… the Pollocks were giving to the town. We just didn’t want to lose the tennis courts, which have such a history.”

The project, funded through a major donation from the Pollock family, has been in the works since October 2023. River Park was always the preferred site, but engineering studies found the soil could not support the heavy refrigerated slab without costly reinforcements. The price tag and risk of shifting led council to assess other locations, including the town hall lot, Scowen Park, and the municipal parking lot, but each was ruled out for legal, environmental or logistical reasons.

Tension over the issue peaked during the Aug. 11 council meeting, where roughly 40 residents filled the room for an hour-and-a-half debate over site options and costs. While supporters argued that a refrigerated rink would extend skating to five months a year and create “a place of intergenerational gathering,” opponents questioned removing a popular amenity and raised concerns about transparency, operating expenses, and traffic impacts.

Davis-Gerrish thanked residents for their patience in the recent update, saying their input played a key role in shaping the outcome. “Your voices were all heard and listened to, and we took your recommendations and worries into serious consideration,” she wrote in her message. She added that the goal remains to create “a wonderful place of gathering for our community,” fulfilling the spirit of the donation.

Full details of the revised design and construction timeline will be shared once plans are finalized, likely at an upcoming council meeting. For now, Hallam said the mood among residents is clear: “We’re all very, very happy… saving the tennis courts and building the rink in the park, which is obviously the perfect spot for it.”

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Quebec government has unveiled new tools to guide colleges and universities in the responsible integration of artificial intelligence (AI), marking a significant step in the province’s effort to adapt higher education to rapid technological change. While the announcement underscores growing attention to AI’s role in teaching and learning, some experts remain sceptical about the technology’s trajectory and its long-term impact.

On Aug. 18, Minister of Higher Education Pascale Déry introduced two key documents: Déploiement et intégration de l’intelligence artificielle en enseignement supérieur – Cadre de référence and Intégration responsable de l’intelligence artificielle dans les établissements d’enseignement supérieur : repères et bonnes pratiques – Guide pratique 2025. Together, these publications lay out principles, governance models, and practical examples for post-secondary institutions to adopt AI ethically and effectively.

“AI is now part of the higher education landscape and we must adapt and harness its potential,” Déry stated in a release. “It will be essential to focus on developing students’ digital skills so they understand both the potential and the limitations of these tools.” Parliamentary assistant Mario Asselin echoed her optimism, calling the guidelines a sign of “mobilization around issues raised by artificial intelligence.”

The government also plans further measures this fall, including a repository of best practices, a toolkit of real-world AI applications, and a directory of AI-related training programs tailored to different levels of education.

Sherbrooke emphasizes ethical integration

The Université de Sherbrooke (UdeS), which formed an expert committee in 2023 to address AI’s impact on its programs, welcomed the provincial framework as complementary to its own efforts. In an official response, UdeS Vice-Rector for Studies and Student Life Isabelle Dionne stressed that AI should “support human pedagogical mediation” and that integration must aim for “pedagogical effectiveness, not economic efficiency.”

The institution’s guiding principles include promoting ethical use, reinforcing students’ technological resilience, and rethinking the instructor’s role from “master to guide.” UdeS also emphasized the need to develop high-level competencies—critical thinking, analysis, and creativity—while embedding ethical considerations of generative AI in curricula.

According to Dionne, UdeS sees an opportunity to “position itself as a leader in ethical and pedagogical integration of AI” and intends to collaborate with government bodies to shape future directions.

Expert voices caution on real capabilities

Despite the enthusiasm, some academics urge caution when considering what AI can realistically deliver. Stefan Bruda, a computer science professor at Bishop’s University, expressed doubts about both the hype surrounding AI and the necessity of formal guidelines for universities.

“I was kind of surprised that everybody talks about guidelines,” he said in an interview. “Personally, I don’t see much of a reason to have these guidelines. Every instructor in computer science knows what AI models can and cannot do and can make their own decisions.” While acknowledging that other disciplines may face different challenges, Bruda suggested that autonomy at the course level remains sufficient for his field.

Progress without breakthroughs

Reflecting on developments since 2023, Bruda described AI’s evolution as “a matter of quantity over quality.” While models have become more capable and user-friendly, their core design principles have not fundamentally changed.

“There haven’t been huge developments in terms of algorithms,” he explained. “But there have been tremendous advances in what AI can do, particularly in how models interact with people. Version 4 of ChatGPT, for example, was much better than version 3 in terms of sounding more human”.

However, persistent issues remain, notably “hallucinations”—incorrect or fabricated responses. “That hasn’t changed and I don’t think it’s going to get any better,” Bruda said, pointing to limitations in training data. “They have scraped the whole web. An AI model is only as good as its training data, and we’re reaching an apex. On top of that, the internet is now full of AI-generated content, which is a very bad thing for training models.”

Mixed performance across disciplines

Bruda noted that AI tools perform unevenly across academic tasks. “For first-year programming courses, ChatGPT can provide correct answers very easily,” he said. “It has gotten better and could competently go all the way to upper years in coding. But it continues to be very bad in applied math”.

This disparity complicates their use in education and highlights why some instructors exercise caution when incorporating AI into coursework.

Future potential—and hard limits

Asked whether AI might transform the labour market, Bruda was careful not to overstate its power. “These models are going to be part of our professional life,” he acknowledged, adding that some low-level white-collar jobs could be replaced. “Receptionists or roles that require interaction with the public but not much creativity—those are very much in danger.”

Beyond that, he remains sceptical. “We’re reaching a hard limit in terms of training data, and if we get to that limit, we get to the limit of what these models can do,” he said. “I don’t think they’re going to get substantially better than they are today.”

Bruda also questioned the economic sustainability of large-scale AI models. “There is a huge amount of energy and hardware behind those models. They haven’t gotten beyond cute little toys right now,” he remarked. “I don’t think these companies have made a profit so far, and I’m not sure they could in the future.”

A turning point—or a plateau?

While Quebec pushes forward with governance frameworks and institutions like UdeS plan for ethical integration, Bruda offered a sobering takeaway: “The current state of AI might be shaky. It is possible that we are seeing the apex of what these models can do.”

For now, universities will continue to navigate the tension between optimism and realism—balancing AI’s promise as an educational tool with the practical and ethical questions it raises.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Sherbrooke-based Interstar Materials Inc., a leader in pigment technology for concrete, has been acquired by global construction giant Saint-Gobain, a move that ensures the company’s headquarters and manufacturing operations will remain in the city.

The acquisition, announced July 29, brings Interstar’s business assets and 55 employees into Saint-Gobain’s North American network while adding more than $20 million in revenue. The company confirmed that the Sherbrooke facility will continue to produce its signature granular pigments, which have been used across North America’s decorative concrete market for decades.

“The business will continue to be operated out of its headquarters in Sherbrooke, Quebec,” said Alexandre Lainesse, public relations manager for Saint-Gobain in Canada, in an email to The Record. He added that operations will also continue in Calgary, Alberta, and Junction City, Illinois. “Saint-Gobain will continue to operate the granular pigment business under the Interstar brand in both Canada and the U.S.”

Interstar, founded in Sherbrooke in 1987, has grown into Canada’s top producer of granular pigments, serving ready mix, stamped concrete, block, paver and precast markets. Its innovations include the Granastar® pigment and automated dispensing systems, which have reshaped the concrete colouring process.

Jobs and economic impact in Sherbrooke
Lainesse confirmed that all local jobs have been secured. “With this acquisition, all 55 employees in Sherbrooke became Saint-Gobain employees. At this time Saint-Gobain expects to continue operations as normal,” he said. He emphasized that Sherbrooke will remain central to the pigment business: “Interstar will continue to manufacture pigment at its headquarters in Sherbrooke.”

The move comes as Saint-Gobain accelerates its growth in Canada, where it has invested more than $4 billion over the past three years. “We believe this commitment to Canada is a major reason why Interstar has trusted us for the next chapter of their thriving business,” Lainesse noted.

Community ties and long-term vision
Lainesse said the company intends to maintain and build on Interstar’s 30-year connection to the region. “We are focused on a successful integration of Interstar Materials activities within our Group’s portfolio,” he wrote. “Saint-Gobain is committed to the communities where we operate… and that will be the same for Sherbrooke.”

Navigating trade and sustainability
The acquisition takes place against a backdrop of trade tensions between Canada and the U.S., but Lainesse explained that the impact will be minimal. “As these products are covered under USMCA, there is little impact from tariffs,” he said, adding that Saint-Gobain prioritizes regional sourcing to protect supply chains.

On sustainability, Lainesse said it is “too early to discuss specific projects for the Sherbrooke site,” but affirmed that Saint-Gobain aims for net zero carbon emissions by 2050. He pointed to other Canadian initiatives, including a zero-carbon gypsum plant near Montreal, as examples of the company’s environmental direction.

Innovation remains in Sherbrooke
The Sherbrooke site will also remain a hub for pigment innovation. “Interstar’s unique expertise will certainly enhance the capabilities of our Construction Chemicals business,” Lainesse wrote. He noted that integration with Saint-Gobain will allow Interstar to access a global network of 166,000 employees across 80 countries.

Part of a broader expansion
This acquisition is the latest in a series of moves by Saint-Gobain to strengthen its presence in North America, following the purchases of Chryso in 2021 and GCP Applied Technologies in 2022. Recent investments include a new ceramics plant in New York and major upgrades at U.S. facilities to boost production and sustainability.

Mark Rayfield, Saint-Gobain North America’s President and CEO, said Interstar is an “ideal partner” for its construction chemicals segment. “I am excited to collaborate with the Interstar team and welcome their employees into our business,” he said. “Together, we will continue to drive progress toward our mission of ‘Making the World a Better Home.’”

For Sherbrooke, the deal means continuity and potential growth for a long-standing local manufacturer now backed by a multinational leader.