Author name: The Record

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

McGill Professor of Economics Christopher Ragan says the federal Carbon Tax is the least expensive method for incentivizing reduced carbon use and contributes minimally to inflation. His comments come amid a raging war of words on the topic between the federal Liberal government (pro) and the Conservative official opposition (con).

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has said recently that all it would take is a “five-minute discussion” for him to convince Canadians of the tax’s merits, while Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has made “axe the tax,” and “spike the hike,” referring to its planned increase on April 1, central tenets of his platform.

Every jurisdiction in Canada since 2019 has had a price on carbon pollution, according to the government’s official website. The federal Carbon Tax and its related rebates are not in effect in Quebec, which has its own provincial cap and trade system in place.

“Quebec’ [carbon pricing] system is driving up the price of gas, natural gas and diesel,” Ragan said in a March 26 interview with The Record, “but there are no rebates.” There is an overall cap set for provincial emissions that declines three or four per cent per year, he continued, which has caused emissions to fall at about the same rate.

Quebec’s system involves tradeable allowances, allowing companies to “pollute for a price,” set at approximately $50 per tonne. The price has been rising over the past few years. Quebec and California’s carbon pricing systems are linked, allowing international trading between firms in the two locations.

At the individual level, all we see is that fossil fuels are a little more expensive, he said. This provides an incentive for people to change their behaviour over time. Every $10 per tonne in carbon pricing translates to about two cents extra per litre at the gas tank, he explained.

Both sides of the political debate “are saying what they want to say,” said Ragan. Those opposed will never discuss the rebates, and will focus on how it is making life unaffordable. Proponents will highlight the tax as a low-cost way to reduce emissions to help fight climate change. “There is truth, of course, in both sides,” he said.

Greenhouse gas emissions, he went on, are measured by calculating how much fossil fuel we use. They have fallen in Canada by about eight per cent since 2019. This, he insisted, is due to carbon pricing and other climate policies. “It does work,” he said, “just not suddenly and dramatically.”

Carbon pricing has a “miniscule” effect on inflation, according to Ragan. He cited a recent University of Calgary study that argued about five per cent of inflation over the past few years has been caused by carbon pricing. “Pretty close to nothing,” he said. The recent spike in inflation was due partly to the pandemic and the war in Ukraine, he said, and also happened in countries without carbon pricing.

The “logic” of carbon pricing is not to make people poor, which is why the rebates make sense. They return 90 per cent of individuals’ purchasing power, he said.

If you want to reduce carbon emissions, carbon pricing is the best among available alternatives, he insisted. “Intrusive regulations” and “very expensive subsidies” are worse options, a point on which he said every economist he knows would be in agreement.

“It may not make you feel good, but any other method, at the end of the day, will make you poorer,” he said. Ragan signed a March 26 open letter on carbon pricing along with many other Canadian economists that goes further into detail on his views. It can be found here: https://sites.google.com/view/open-letter-carbon-pricing

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Two Mon Shack tenant testimonials elicited standing ovations at the organization’s annual fundraising dinner March 22. Carl Tremblay and David Patry extolled the virtues of Mon Shack in front of nearly 150 supporters in the large hall located in Sherbrooke’s Collège Mont Notre-Dame.

Michel Tardif, father of a current Mon Shack 2.0 resident, also spoke. Founder and Director Josée Parent presided over the event, which included a multiple course meal, a silent auction, and live music. Dignitaries in attendance included Sherbrooke MP Élisabeth Brière, Saint-François MNA Geneviève Hébert, Lennoxville Borough President Claude Charron, and Lennoxville Borough Councillor Jennifer Garfat.

Mon Shack, located in Lennoxville, offers supervised residential units and related bilingual services for young adults struggling with mental health issues. A resounding success, the organization expanded and opened nearby Mon Shack 2.0 in the fall of 2023.

Carl Tremblay

“I will try to be brief,” began Tremblay, “but I’ll put things in context.” He is 35 years old. He was put under the protection of the directeur de la protection de la jeunesse (DPJ) at the age of five because his mother was violent. His father, suffering from epilepsy, could not take care of him, and passed away when he was 14 years old.

Tremblay was institutionalized at the age of 18. He spent 10 years on the street and fell into periodic drug abuse. In his times of sobriety, he married and pursued personal projects such as rap music. He received therapy which gave him some tools to cope. “I think I’m a resilient person,” he said.

Later on, he was diagnosed with schizophrenia. He was in Montreal at the time, living in an apartment, and was heavily abusing drugs, which put him into a state of psychosis. He decided then to “take his life into his own hands.”

He approached Parent to live at Mon Shack but was initially refused. He was eventually admitted under certain special conditions. Living at Mon Shack gave a stability to his life that he had never had before. He made friends there, where “everyone is treated equally.”

He is not ready to move to Mon Shack 2.0, a more autonomous living arrangement, because he still needs the security provided by Mon Shack. He is surrounded by qualified individuals trained to help him. He thanked Parent for giving him this opportunity.

His testimony finished, the crowd launched to their feet with cheers and applause.

David Patry

Patry thanked everyone for attending this important occasion. Mon Shack gave him a confidence he had never had before. Previously, he couldn’t look people in the eye and was very timid and reserved. But he had a dream to pursue his education. Mon Shack gave him the strength and a roof under which to do so.

“Without Mon Shack, I have no idea where I would be today,” he said. At the age of 20, he returned to school and finished Secondary 5. He then finished CEGEP and is now attending university. The crowd erupted into applause.

He is studying physics and hopes some day to teach. He is putting a lot of effort into it and it is going well. He said the world needs organizations like Mon Shack, because they help people to believe and invest in society. Living there has benefitted his life more than anything else.

Shouts of “Bravo!” could be heard as he finished his speech as crowd gave him a standing ovation.

Michel Tardif

“Are you happy?” Tardif asked the crowd. “Yes!” they responded. “To be happy you need a home,” he said. Without that security, it is much more difficult to be happy. His son has been living in Mon Shack for five and a half years.

“Mental health problems happen without warning,” he continued. He noted the treatment of mental health issues is not very advanced. Families do not know what to do when mental illness hits. Mon Shack is the missing solution.

When nothing else was working, Mon Shack gave his son the needed stability to improve and become more autonomous. He thanked Parent for everything she has done.

After the testimonies, Parent gave a few closing words and encouraged those gathered to enjoy the rest of their night.

More information about Mon Shack can be found at its website: monshack.ca

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A North Hatley special committee voted unanimously March 20 to allow for the demolition of the heritage building at 190 Rue Main, citing its poor condition, elevated potential repair costs, and location in a flood zone. The three-member committee, which met previously on the issue Jan. 24, 2023, gave its decision in front of roughly 25 members of the public in the small hall adjoining Sainte-Elisabeth Church.

Opinions on the topic were divided during the question and comment session held before the decision was made. Town Councillor Andrew J. Pelletier, who presided over the meeting, noted the decision was not final and there are more steps in the process, including a 30-day window in which members of the public can file a formal objection.

In attendance was Mayor Marcella Davis-Gerrish, who said an info letter detailing these steps would be made public through the town March 21. The final ruling rests in the hands of the full town council at a later date.

190 Rue Main

The meeting began with a presentation on the house and property in question. The house, built in 1937, has an approximate value of $300,000. The property itself is valued at roughly $1.3 million, bringing the total valuation to about $1.6 million.

The house is generally located in a 20–100-year flood zone, with its left side at the same level as a 0–20-year flood zone. “The foundation and the walls are constantly exposed to water,” said Pelletier. He noted that at their previous meeting only photos of the outside of the house were available, whereas now they have photos of the interior which paint a “particularly problematic” picture of the state of the building. The photos showed fungus and severe water damage in the basement.

The house’s heritage value resides primarily in its previous ownership, which includes members of the LeBaron family, one of North Hatley’s founding families. Pelletier emphasized the house, which has undergone some maintenance over the years, has maintained its original “look” but does not currently have much current “social or symbolic” significance. Though the building is made of brick, an uncommon construction material at the time for the area, it does not have any particular aesthetic value.

Total renovation costs of the building, budgeting for contingencies, are estimated at just over $1 million. If the house ends up being demolished, any new house on the property would need to be built outside the flood zone and would be pre-assessed for its “visual, historical and financial” impact on the municipality.

Public Opinion

Members of the public voiced their opinions on the subject after the presentation, some for the demolition, some against.

One woman, who said she stayed at the house during the pandemic, described the building as “very sick.” It makes no sense to her that the owners would be forced to put $1 million into a house in a flood zone.

She said there was no guarantee the renovation plan, involving lifting the brick house off its foundations, would even work. She noted nearby trees would need to be removed. Pelletier confirmed the detailed potential renovation plans are available to the public at the town hall.

Another local resident noted other nearby historical buildings had been renovated at a high cost and she thinks it was ultimately worth it. While the loss of one building is not “the end of the world,” when you add them up it represents a “decline.”

According to her, the demolition of the building cannot take place until a detailed plan for what will replace it has been approved. But such a plan has not been put forward tonight, she said. She questioned whether or not the rules were being respected. She was told the rules are being followed and that a condition of the final decision on demolition will be approval of the plans for a replacement building.

Another woman said it must have been the case the current owners knew they had bought a heritage site and it was their responsibility to keep it up. “We agree that what is demolished is demolished, it’s over,” she said, cautioning that all the appropriate steps must be followed. She noted that residents have been upset with what has been allowed to be built in the recent past, and does not want it to happen again.

A current resident of 190 Rue Main took the floor. “The house does not need to be saved,” he said. “It’s nothing special. It’s really hardly more than a myriad of decomposing wood, toxins, molds, which we’ll hear about, and structural faults.” He said the surrounding ecosystem and property are of more importance. “We won’t be sad to see it go,” he continued, “quite the opposite.”

One of the house’s current owners, Kimberly Myles, spoke next. She said she could prove she was not told the house was a heritage site when she bought it, and she intended initially to save it. According to all the professionals she consulted, it would be better to build a new home on the property, she said. The house suffered decades of neglect before they bought it. She assured the committee and those gathered the new home would fit into “the character of North Hatley.”

The Decision

Pelletier thanked everyone who shared their opinions on the issue. He said it clearly matters greatly to North Hatley’s citizens to keep the community informed about the ongoing process. He outlined the reasoning behind his decision to allow demolition.

He said the building’s general appearance, both internally and externally, reflects a lack of integrity. Essential improvements are needed regarding water infiltration, electrical systems, plumbing, and contamination issues. He noted the problems of mold and the building’s location in a flood zone, emphasizing the near impossibility of obtaining insurance.

The planned renovation costs, already deemed excessive by the owners, were significantly underestimated, and are now estimated to be four times the house’s value, he noted. Regarding the building’s historical value and uniqueness, it does not fit into the classifications of colonial American, French, Dutch, or Southern architecture seen elsewhere in North Hatley.

Any modifications will not affect the neighborhood’s quality; the building will stay residential. Renovation or reconstruction must comply with local regulations, particularly those concerning visual impact and respect for historical heritage.

After reviewing the reports and considering the high renovation costs, the decision to recommend the demolition permit was made, taking into account the building’s unique character but acknowledging the practical challenges it presents. The committee’s decision now moves to the town council for final consideration, a process open to public input and opposition.

The meeting, lasting two hours, was adjourned just before 9 p.m.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

As the clock struck 10 a.m. on Jan. 1, retired Bishop’s Professor Stephen Sheeran led a growing crowd of intrepid souls into the icy embrace of Lake Massawippi. This annual ritual, a polar plunge started nearly two decades ago by current Bishop’s Professor Carleton Monk, has transformed from a frosty personal challenge into a cherished community event, drawing residents and holiday visitors alike into the chilly waters to mark the new year with a shared, shivering thrill.

“He’s the original ice man,” said Monk referring to Sheeran, “everybody else runs in and runs out.” Sheeran goes in and comes out slowly as if taking a bath, Monk added with a chuckle.

The two have been taking the 10 a.m., Jan. 1, polar plunge at North Hatley’s public beach for around 20 years. In the year 2000, there was hardly any snow and the temperature was mild, Monk remembers. He decided, to ring in the new year, “to go for a little swim”. Three or four years later, Sheeran learned of Monk’s newly-forged tradition and chose to join him. For many years thereafter, it was often just the two of them, though sometimes their children would participate. Around 10 years ago, the tradition began to snowball until dozens started showing up.

One year, Monk recounted, it was at least 20 degrees below zero. It was so cold he could not dry himself because the water turned to ice on his skin. “My suit froze, everything froze.”

Sometimes they have had to put a hole in the ice a few days before, sometimes they need to walk out on the ice to open water, and other times, like Monday, they can just wade right in. Monk speculates the water temperature is around five degrees, similar to the Pacific Ocean near Victoria, B.C., where he also often swims. Some say the Massawippi is only two or three degrees, but he does not believe it.

“The water really takes the heat out of you,” Monk admitted, “you have to be careful.” Going in and getting out quickly is your best bet. Monk is used to cold water, but even he had to be warmed up once in an ambulance at a polar swim event he ran out west. “You have to warm up after.”

“We’ve had a lot of ups and downs over the years,” said Sheeran, “it goes according to the season.” In 2023 there were around 40 people involved, he noted.

On Jan. 1, 2024, at 10 a.m., dozens of all ages had already gathered on North Hatley’s public beach to take the frosty yearly dip or cheer their friends and family on. Sheeran led the way, striding calmly into the frigid waters, even swimming out a bit and treading water while waves of others joined him. Some, like Monk, chose to jump in off a nearby pier. The saunas on shore were open, free of charge, for people to recover from the ordeal.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Local hotel propels Mae Sot Education Project forward

In a blend of local generosity and global compassion, the Mae Sot Education Project (MSEP) continues its mission to educate Burmese migrant children in Thailand, propelled by the innovative fundraising efforts of the Townships community. Spearheaded by Stephen Stafford’s initiative, a raffle for a luxurious stay at his Hovey Manor—including a visit to its new spa—has raised $7,500 this season.

This heartening local support comes at a crucial time as the MSEP grapples with post-pandemic challenges and an increasing refugee influx from Myanmar’s ongoing conflict, reaffirming the community’s commitment to making a life-changing impact on the lives of these children and the volunteers who teach them. The MSEP has been committed to supporting education for migrant and refugee youth from Burma/Myanmar since 2004. Its volunteers are mainly Bishop’s University and Champlain Lennoxville students.

“It started a year ago, we did it last year as well,” MSEP Coordinator Mary

Purkey said, referring to the raffle, “it was really Stephen Stafford’s initiative.” There are many faithful donors like Stafford in the local community. Stafford proposed doing something different – raffling off a room and meals at his five-star North Hatley hotel, Hovey Manor.

The idea worked well last year, selling tickets was “a piece of cake”. This year, time at the Hovey’s new spa was added on to the prize. The price of the ticket was upped $5, which did not discourage participants in the slightest, she said. This year they made $7,500, selling the tickets beginning in early November. “It was very much slated as a holiday raffle.”

The recent pandemic had a profound effect on the organization’s operations. Parents of the children in Thailand were unable to work and the focus was taken off education and put on maintaining the basic necessities of life. Related rising transportation costs, to get the Thai children out of their villages to school, were also a problem. Purkey noted another organization, Inclusive Education Foundation, helped the MSEP and other institutions teaching in Thailand to work through that difficult time.

In Covid’s aftermath, schooling has regained its priority, but the nearby fighting and coup in Myanmar has led to an influx of refugees of different ethnic backgrounds. The prospect of them returning to Myanmar and having “secure and happy lives” there is low, so the education system has been called on to adapt.

How does teaching English relate to all of this? “English teaching is ultimately not the important part of what [we] are doing there,” Purkey explained. Volunteers are there mainly to make a cultural connection and reassure the children there are people in the world that care for them. However, English is of practical use there and is in demand. The local tourism business needs people that can communicate in English. The refugees currently have no path towards citizenship, but learning English can give them “prospects”, Purkey said.

This year’s deadline for applications for the MSEP is Jan. 5, 2024. Since Covid, it has been more difficult to recruit students and there have been fewer applicants. People seem simply to be less willing to go abroad for extended periods. However, the MSEP is a great experience for those who wish to go on and work for international NGOs. The vast majority of participants, Purkey emphasized, have found the experience “life-changing” and have learned at least as much as the students they have taught. Purkey speculates that admission in the future could be opened to students from other schools or older members of the community.

“I’ve always had a soft spot for refugees,” Stafford said, detailing his motivations for helping out with the project, “I think it’s a global problem.” Refugees are the most tenacious, courageous, and ambitious members of their societies, and he thinks they would probably make for “good citizens”. South American refugees “go through hell” to reach the American border and he does not like how they are often “pilloried”. Refugees from Myanmar in Mae Sot are often treated badly, he continued, and do not get a lot of support, which is why he provides assistance.

Stafford has been involved with the MSEP for years, previously giving yearly $5,000 donations at its annual banquet. “The raffle brings more money to [the MSEP],” he explained. The potential prize makes for a great Christmas present, he said with a chuckle. “Mary Purkey has done a lot of work and I think it is a wonderful project.” The MSEP also benefits those who volunteer, he added, and makes them better “world citizens”.

Calila Tardif and Felix Duplessis-Marcotte, former MSEP volunteers who went on to marry and are still involved with the project, spoke on what the organization means to them.

The two participated in 2016; both were students at Champlain Lennoxville. The generosity from Mae Sot local students and teachers made a big impression on Tardif. What seems like a small organization from a Canadian perspective makes a big difference in Thailand, and the locals show their appreciation, she said.

“It was the relationships that I built,” said Duplessis-Marcotte, referring to what about the experience had the biggest impact on him. Not only the relationships with Mae Sot locals, but the Lennoxville community as well.

The MSEP taught Duplessis-Marcotte leadership – one must quickly become a good teacher and role-model to succeed. Currently completing his PhD in neuropsychology in Montreal, he does not think he would have been able to get through it without his MSEP experience.

Tardif learned “flexibility and engagement” from her time there; the job requires quick adaptation and adjustment. She also learned the value of this kind of volunteer work.

On Dec. 28, a party of around 20 people involved with and interested in the MSEP gathered in Hovey Manor’s Abenaki Room to determine the winner of the raffle. Purkey presided over the event, which was live streamed on Tardif’s phone. Stafford randomly chose a name from a large jar: Michael Petitclerc.

Petitclerc was not there, so Purkey called him and left a message telling him the news. Rounding out the event, Purkey thanked all those involved, and an open discussion was held on the MSEP and related issues. Committee member Graham Moodie was presented with his own certificate in thanks for all the work he had put into organizing the raffle.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Dr. Robert Edward Whitley, of McGill University’s psychiatry department, has shed light on a compelling correlation in a Dec. 20 interview: the more religious individuals are, the better their mental health tends to be. Supported by an array of studies, Whitley’s research reveals a moderate yet positive relationship across various religious practices and mental well-being, pointing to the nuanced yet significant role faith plays in psychological health. This groundbreaking research not only navigates the complexities of religiosity and atheism but also highlights the potential of Eastern religious practices like yoga and meditation in improving mental health outcomes. As societies grapple with the implications of faith and well-being, Whitley’s empirical findings offer a nuanced perspective on the ancient debate surrounding the impact of spirituality on mental health.

“The more religious people tend to be, the better their mental health,” Whitley said; a proposition supported by numerous studies. He noted that “religiosity” can be measured systematically using criteria such as how often one attends a place of worship, engages in prayer, and reads or meditates upon sacred texts. Mental health is measured using criteria including symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other markers of wellbeing. A “moderate” positive relationship between the two has been shown across many different religions.

Most studies have been done using Christian samples, the minority using Jewish and Muslim samples. Lower rates of suicide and substance abuse have been shown to correlate with the religiosity of countries regardless of religion.

“It’s not a perfect linear relationship between complete atheism and very devout religion,” Whitley explained, “in fact, it’s more complex than that.” In the surveys used in these studies, there is a category called the “nones”. “Nones” are those who check “none of the above” when they are asked if they are a particular religion or spiritual at all. This metric “mixes in” hardcore atheists and agnostics, those who are “not quite sure” but do not practice.

Hardcore atheists do not tend to have the worst mental health, for they have their own ideology and belief system that gives them “purpose and meaning”; this is the only world there is, they think, and they try to make the best of it. Those with the worst mental health simply practice nothing and have nothing to replace it with. In addition, there is some evidence that some religious practices can be “damaging” if they are taken too far – fasting and religious concepts of ‘sin’ and ‘perfection’ can cause a lot of guilt and shame. However, Whitley reaffirmed, the relationship between religiosity and mental health is positive, despite these nuances.

A new body of research shows some of the practices of Eastern religions can be very good for your mental health: yoga and “mindfulness” or meditation, for instance. In Western countries, these practices tend to be stripped of their moral and spiritual dimensions, a phenomenon some criticize. He does research on military veterans, who have been successfully dealing with sleep, chronic pain, and PTSD issues, using yoga.

Every religion comes with a moral code, a set of practices determining what it is to live your life well. Research has shown giving support to others is good for your own mental health by connecting yourself into a “wider group” and giving your life meaning and purpose.

“G. K. Chesterton said that when people stop believing in God, they believe in anything,” Whitley continued. What Chesterton was referring to was astrology, palm-reading and other “pseudo-sciences”, but, Whitley said, this nugget of wisdom has a broader application. Societies that have abolished God and religion, like Communist Russia and Nazi Germany, have replaced them with “very harmful and damaging ideologies”.

Whitley has done research on those who have abandoned their religious upbringing and become involved in damaging subcultures. Part of their recovery involved rejoining a religious group and rediscovering its importance in their lives.

Whitley emphasized that he is an empirical researcher and is not promoting any particular religion, the adherence to which is a matter of personal choice. But, “the evidence is irrefutable” that religiosity is good for your mental health, which is important for people to factor in when that choice is made.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In a heartwarming tale of survival fitting for the holiday spirit, Akli Ait-Eldjoudi, a local dog-owner, received the “best Christmas present ever!” after his dog, Gaïa, was dramatically rescued from the icy grip of Massawippi Lake. A cheerful Christmas Day was the reward for both the dog and her family following Gaïa’s ill-fated chase after ducks that led her 50 meters from shore, where the ice betrayed her. The quick response and bravery of local firefighters, dubbed “guardian angels” by Ait-Eldjoudi, turned a chilling incident into a timely reminder of the perils of thin ice and the importance of ice safety.

Gaïa on thin ice

“I was in the middle of touring Estrie with my parents,” Ait-Eldjoudi said, “and we stopped for two seconds in Ayer’s Cliff.” He opened the car door to let Gaïa stretch her legs. The second she was free, she bolted.

Ait-Eldjoudi had not seen the ducks out on Massawippi Lake, but Gaïa had. She chased them out on the frozen waters, getting as far as 50 meters from shore. Then, she went through the ice. “I was very upset!” he admitted.

Gaïa tried to climb back out of the water onto the ice, but it kept breaking under her weight. There was no way Ait-Eldjoudi could save her safely himself, so he called 9-1-1. “They understood the gravity of the situation,” he recounted.

It took around 30 minutes for the firefighters to arrive. During that time, he kept speaking to Gaïa to reassure her. Towards the end of their wait, she started wailing in a way he had never heard before. “I’m hurting! I’m going to die!” he took it to mean. They had tried to get help from neighbouring houses, but all the boats were stowed away for the winter.

The firefighters, after reassuring him everything would be okay, placed their own rescue boat on the water and progressively broke the ice in front of them as they made their way out to where Gaïa was stranded. They pulled her out of the water and brought her back to shore, after which she spent 15 minutes in their truck, wrapped in blankets, to warm up.

It was Christmas Day and Ait-Eldjoudi and his family took Gaïa home and had fun with her and opened presents. “We never would have celebrated Christmas,” he said, if things had worked out for the worse.

Ait-Eldjoudi emphasized that people must be cautious concerning thin ice. “Don’t take any risks,” he urged. During the ordeal it was the worst he had ever felt, he was totally powerless. “There was nothing I could do. It was horrible.”

Ice rescues

Régie Incendie Memphrémagog Est Division Chief Dany Brus, based in Ayer’s Cliff, offered further information on the incident and ice safety and rescues in general.

“We get a call almost once a year for a dog on the lake,” Brus said, “it happens more often than you think.” They respond to those calls, unlike those concerning cats in trees, because if they do not rescue the animal, someone else will likely try and put themselves at risk. He would rather help the animal first than have to deal with rescuing a human being.

Upon receiving a call, the firefighters make their way to their station and suit up, so they are ready to go when they arrive at the scene. Firefighters will prioritize ice rescues, even if they are currently on a fire call; ideally, they split into teams. One truck always contains everything they will need for an ice rescue.

During the rescue, the firefighters wear “ice commander” dry suits, helmets, and lifejackets, and are equipped with ice picks and ropes. They operate in two teams – a “red team” and a “yellow team”. For this incident, they used a “Polar 75”, a special boat made for ice rescues that has openings on each end to pull people (or animals) in. The boat is connected by a rope to a team on shore, who pulls it rapidly to shore once the “patient” is safely onboard.

The dog was dried off as fast as possible once it was back on land. The truck is also equipped with a heated “rescue cube” to warm the patient up until they can recover.

If the ice is thick, the firefighters will not use a boat but go out on frozen waters, first walking, then crawling, then sliding on their bellies to make the rescue.

It was Station #3 (Ayer’s Cliff) and Station #4 (North Hatley) that responded.

“Don’t go on the ice,” Brus said, when asked if he had a message to impart. Do not go near the edge of the ice near open water. Ice is thinner near entrances and exits of the lake, like the mouths of streams or rivers. “We don’t have the winters we used to,” he said, “it’s more unpredictable now.”

Ice safety

Brus emailed The Record a list of ice safety measures, detailed below:

– Stay on safe surfaces and away from hazardous areas such as streams and rivers.

– Ice should be checked regularly to ensure that it is thick and strong enough for recreational use.

– Measure ice thickness at several points.

– Local conditions such as currents and water depths can affect ice thickness. Consult knowledgeable locals.

– Never go out on the ice alone.

– Someone with you could rescue you or go for help if you run into difficulties. Before leaving shore, tell someone where you’re going and what time you’ll be back.

– Dress warmly.

– Wearing several layers of clothing allows you to remove or add pieces for optimum comfort in all circumstances. Don’t forget the extremities: waterproof boots, warm gloves and a well-lined tuque help keep the heat in.

– Carry your safety equipment with you at all times.

– Ice picks, worn around the neck with a string, are indispensable on frozen water. Make sure you have a rope and a small personal safety kit in your pocket.

– If you’re driving on ice, be ready to react.

– Turn on your headlights, open your windows, unlock your doors, and make sure your seatbelts are not buckled, so you can escape quickly from your vehicle if the ice gives way under its weight.

– Always keep an eye on children and accompanying persons.

– Children must always be under the active supervision of an adult. If they are not within arm’s reach, they have ventured too far.

– Be aware of the dangers of ice rescue.

– Rescuing another person from the ice can be dangerous. The safest way to perform a rescue is from the shore. If you see someone in trouble, call 9-1-1.

The recommended minimum ice thickness for new and clear ice according to societedesauvetage.org is:

7 cm (3″) or less – danger

10 cm (4″) – single walker

12 cm (5″) – snowmobile or ATV

20-30 cm (8-12″) – automobile

30-38 cm (12-15″) – medium weight truck

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

According to Dr. Richard Koestner, a psychology professor at McGill University, about half of North Americans regularly make New Year’s resolutions, but statistics reveal that nearly 90 per cent abandon their goals by year’s end. Koestner delves into the psychology behind this widespread phenomenon, offering insights on why so many fail and providing practical strategies for successful goal setting and achievement.

“About 50 per cent of North Americans make [New Year’s] resolutions [regularly],” explained Koestner. Studies have been done wherein people were surveyed before New Year’s as to whether they were thinking of making a resolution, it was recorded what the resolutions made were, and the people were tracked, until six months later, to see if they followed through.

The studies show a basic pattern: 25 per cent drop out in the first week, 30 per cent after two weeks, and around 40 per cent after the first month. Often in January, he said, you will see many new people in the gym that stop going within the first few months. By the end of the year, he continued, all but 10 per cent of people will have given up on their resolution.

“It’s very hard to change our behaviour, our habits,” Koestner admitted. Often, resolutions concern important life changes, like quitting smoking, eating healthy, and exercising more. Those who quit smoking often make up to 10 solid attempts before doing so. The pervasive sense that most people fail in their resolutions discourages many from making any. He still thinks it is worth it, but one should not be too tough with oneself if one fails.

Those who put thought into their resolutions early in December tend to do better. When one sets a goal, it is important to consider why one is setting it. If the reasons are interest or that you find the goal “personally valuable” or meaningful, you are more likely to follow through. Many set resolutions because they are comparing themselves to others, at the advice of others, or guilt. The more you feel you are forced into it “it backfires”.

Often, people set too many resolutions. The best is to set one, maybe two at most. Goals require remembering, changing behaviour and self-control. There is evidence that our capacity to exercise self-control is limited. Our lives are busy; adding too many new goals can be self-defeating.

Nothing “magic” happens when you set a new goal. The second and more important step is to make a solid plan of action. “The plan has to specify when, where and how you’re going to do what you’re hoping to do.” Thinking through these aspects of your resolution better help you achieve what you are aiming at. Koestler urges people to craft plans that make adherence to them as “automatic” as possible. There is evidence that a good plan that is stuck to for a month can create a new habit.

Other people in your life can play an important role in your resolutions. The way they respond to your goal can support you in your efforts. Teaming up with a friend and “pushing each other” has been shown to have an effect. The need for self-control can be partially “outsourced” to others. Some 10 to 15 studies he has done has shown that “cheerleading” support does not hurt, but it does not really help either. A “gentler” kind of support, where others merely show interest and keep tabs on what you are doing, works better.

“Montreal, on January 1^st, is probably the worst time to set a goal,” Koestler said. It is cold, there is no sunshine, and leftover projects from the fall need to be accomplished. The best time to set a goal in our northern region is Canada Day, he suggested. The weather is nicer and you will likely have some vacation time to work with. Koestler himself resets resolutions he has failed on Canada Day.

Koestler reiterated that resolutions are still worth it, even if one will likely fail, since multiple attempts are often needed and one can learn from each failure.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Local Hélène Hayes Cunningham shared an eye-opening account with The Record of the financial and healthcare challenges faced by her family due to the expensive Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine. This account underscores the broader issue of vaccine affordability and accessibility in Canada. This situation is exacerbated by recent concerns over emergency room overcrowding and the healthcare system’s strained capacity to handle increasing patient numbers.

In a Dec. 19 interview, Cunningham recounted that the issue came to light in early December when her 44-year-old son, a resident of Beaconsfield and father to two young children aged four and seven, contracted RSV. His severe illness led him to advise his parents to get vaccinated. Cunningham, aged 76 and recently having undergone knee replacement surgery, and her 81-year-old husband, who has asthma and diabetes, were prime candidates for the vaccine.

Upon consulting their healthcare provider, Dr. Suzanne Banfill at the Bishop’s University healthcare center, the Cunninghams were prescribed the vaccine. However, they were informed about its high cost – initially quoted at $175 but later billed at $288.75 per dose. This brought the total cost for the couple to nearly $600, a significant financial burden.

“For preventive medicine we’re close to $600 down. And I would have taken it anyway because I’ve been navigating the health care system and I truly believe in taking care of myself first. But… I feel it’s thoroughly unjust for people who don’t have the means to not be able to have access to this,” Cunningham explained.

Ontario is currently the only province that offers financial support for Arexvy, the RSV vaccine in question, for vulnerable populations. This regional disparity in healthcare coverage highlights the uneven access to essential medical treatments across Canada. The situation is further complicated by the lack of coverage for the vaccine by private insurance companies, as Cunningham discovered through her insurer, Desjardins.

In addition to the RSV vaccine, Cunningham drew attention to the shingles vaccine, Shingrix, which is, she said, offered free to those 80 and over in some provinces, including Prince Edward Island and Ontario, but not in others. This inconsistency in vaccine coverage within the Canadian healthcare system points to a broader issue of inequitable healthcare across the country.

Cunningham worries that the issue will get worse with Bill 15 and Santé Québec, the new healthcare administrative model recently slotted to be put in place.

“With this illness, I think that’s where we’re going forward with Santé Québec and the type of decisions that are taken at the top and not from the point of view of the patient. If it’s the point of view of the administrators only, they certainly don’t have the right aim with more prevention to help the health system,” she said.

The Record contacted local health authority CIUSSS de l’Estrie – CHUS for comment on the current state of their ERs and received the following statement Dec. 18 from Nancy Corriveau, a media relations representative:

“We are noticing an increase in the number of users presenting to the emergency room with problems related to respiratory viruses and gastroenteritis. We remind you that people who show symptoms of gastroenteritis, sinusitis, otitis, or any other virus can call 811, option 1, to get an evaluation by a nurse and, if necessary, an appointment for a medical consultation, regardless of the user’s age and whether they have a family doctor. When a person shows symptoms of a respiratory virus, they are encouraged to reduce contact with people and adopt respiratory hygiene measures (hand washing, wearing a mask, etc.) to decrease the transmission of viruses.”

The Record contacted Quebec’s Ministère de la Santé et des Services Sociaux (MSSS) over email Dec. 19 asking for an interview or statement as to why the RSV vaccine costs $288.75 and is not covered by the province. As of press time Dec. 21, the MSSS has not responded.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In an innovative step towards addressing mental health needs, Mon Shack unveiled ‘Mon Shack 2.0’ at a Dec. 19 press conference, a pioneering facility that promises to revolutionize mental health care in Quebec. This new establishment will offer 22 affordable housing units, specifically designed to support individuals of all ages grappling with mental health challenges. The facility is not just a housing complex; it’s a beacon of hope, fostering a bilingual living environment and incorporating the groundbreaking Espace Univers-Shack living-lab.

The initiative, as detailed in a press release, and marking a unique model in the province, has been realized with an investment exceeding $5.9 million, part of the Second Canada-Quebec Agreement for the Rapid Housing Creation Initiative. Tenants of Mon Shack 2.0 will also benefit from the Société d’Habitation du Québec (SHQ) Rent Supplement Program, ensuring affordability and accessibility. This financial assistance, potentially amounting to nearly $2.5 million over the next 20 years, is largely supported by the SHQ and the City of Sherbrooke.

Mon Shack, which began its journey in 2013, celebrated its tenth anniversary by opening the doors of Mon Shack 2.0. Reflecting on its progress, Mon Shack’s first building was launched in 2018, five years after its inception. The organization was a trailblazer in the Estrie region, offering affordable housing, bilingual professional intervention services for young adults aged 18-35, and inclusive activities promoting social integration.

The Espace Univers-Shack, a key feature of Mon Shack 2.0, epitomizes innovation in mental health service delivery, research, and development. This living-lab initiative is the fruit of a collaborative effort between Mon Shack, Bishop’s University, and the University of Sherbrooke, aimed at enriching mental health services and fostering community engagement.

In an effort to further community involvement and promote mental well-being, Mon Shack invites the public to participate in free workshops and social activities. These initiatives are geared towards enhancing collective mental health and fostering a sense of belonging among residents.

Mon Shack also announced an exciting opportunity to contribute to this noble cause. On March 22, 2024, a gourmet fundraising dinner will be held, offering an evening of fine dining, cocktails, music, and a silent auction. This event is not just a fundraiser but an occasion to celebrate community spirit and support mental health initiatives. Tickets for this event can be acquired by scanning a designated QR code.

Press conference

Presiding over the press conference celebrating the launch of Mon Shack 2.0 was its founder and executive director, Josée Parent. Over 50 people attended, including Mon Shack tenants and staff, local politicians, Bishop’s University professors and staff, local media, and other interested parties. Various notable attendees took turns speaking.

After thanking everyone for being there, Parent described Mon Shack 2.0 and emphasized it is for people of all ages and offers services in both official languages.

“Formidable!” said Marie-Claude Bibeau, MP for Compton-Stanstead. “It was a dream, and it has been realized.” She insisted it was everyone’s obligation to help keep things going; the construction of the building was a governmental priority. Parent is a “guardian angel”, she said, for those who are facing mental health challenges and need and affordable place to live.

St-Francois MNA Geneviève Hébert noted that Parent has been tenacious and persistent in her guiding of the project, a project unique in Quebec. Mon Shack enables its tenants to develop their potential and participate in society like everyone else. The bilingual services Mon Shack provides mirror the bilingual character, and “richness”, of the region.

Sherbrooke’s Acting Mayor Raïs Kibonge noted the project was very important to Sherbrooke Mayor Évelyne Beaudin, who is currently on leave at the suggestion of her doctor. The project enables the community to strengthen their empathy and practice taking care of each other. Of behalf of the City of Sherbrooke, he said they are proud to have funded and contributed the land for this new endeavour.

Claude Charron, Lennoxville Borough President, recounted the first presentation Parent made to the Lennoxville Town Council for the initial Mon Shack. He remembered her as exuding determination and dedication. He extolled the positive impact the new lodgings would have on the Lennoxville community and hopes it will foster community participation. He insisted this was a perfect example of cooperation between the different levels of government involved.

Parent, holding back tears, then introduced “Anthony”, a Mon Shack tenant. For Anthony, Mon Shack is a place that destigmatizes mental health issues. It is a place to reestablish oneself and maintain autonomy in a stable environment. It is important not to work against one’s mental health problems, but understand them and live with them. The support from the Mon Shack team allows one to pursue one’s life projects and persist.

After the conference, Parent emphasized Lennoxville was the perfect place for Mon Shack 2.0, because of its bilingualism and tight-knit community. Guided tours of the new building were then given by a Mon Shack staff member.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In a significant community meeting held Dec. 18 in Ayer’s Cliff, the focus was squarely on a proposed multifamily housing project poised to bring a considerable change to the town’s demographic and infrastructure. The meeting, characterized by a vibrant question-and-answer session, delved into the nuances of the project, touching on aspects ranging from housing density to potential strain on local services. Mayor Simon Roy presided over the meeting, emphasizing that it was only an informational meeting on the proposal and residents’ comments and opinions on the project would be considered at a later meeting Jan. 8. Over 30 people attended; cars filled Ayer’s Cliff’s community hall parking lot and lined the street nearby.

Overview of the meeting

At the heart of the discussion was a proposal to convert a portion of an industrial zone, north of Wulftec International Inc. and west of Tyler Road, into a residential area, potentially accommodating between 200 to 500 new residents in multifamily housing units. The land is currently owned by local Roger Madore. This dramatic increase in population, representing a significant percentage of the town’s current size, raised concerns and prompted a thorough examination.

Key concerns addressed included the impact on local services such as water supply and waste management, the capacity of the fire department to handle higher buildings, and the potential social implications of introducing a large number of new residents. The meeting underscored the need for a collective decision-making process, with the town council highlighting its neutrality and openness to public opinion.

The project, primarily envisioned as rental units with a possibility of condos, brought up questions about the nature of the new community that would form and its integration with the existing town. The council also discussed the importance of maintaining a balance between residential expansion and preserving industrial zones vital for employment opportunities.

In response to concerns about potential construction delays or abandonment, the council discussed implementing safeguards like special taxes for undeveloped lots to encourage timely development. They also highlighted the need for a comprehensive plan for the new zone to ensure a structured and cohesive development.

As the meeting progressed, discussions touched on the technical aspects of zoning changes, including the establishment of a wooded buffer zone to ease the transition between existing residences and the new development. Parking norms and building height limitations were also discussed to maintain a harmony with the existing town structure.

Question period highlights

“The only thing you will be able to [build there] are multi-family buildings,” Ayer’s Cliff Mayor Simon Roy explained, answering a question about what kinds of new construction could be expected if the proposal were to be accepted. Air B&B rentals are allowed, but only if the host lives in the building, which is the same everywhere else in town. There will be a park or “greenspace”, and offices are permitted, but only personal offices that are a part of one’s residence.

Council member Patrick Proulx asked how close the new development would be to the Tomifobia River. There is adequate space, he was told, and the wetlands nearby could not be built upon following provincial regulation.

“I have 30 acres of residential land that is not yet built,” said a resident. She then asked why they would want to build in a non-residential area when there is already space available. She asserted that existing residential land was being devalued and valuable industrial land being taken away.

Roy agreed that, if one wished to keep as much of one’s industrial zone as possible long term, the proposal is “no good”. He suggested space for affordable housing could be more important. The proposed location is ideal for residences because of its proximity to town infrastructure. He reminded the gathering that the council is not “for or against” the proposal, but is merely presenting it to the public to get their input. “If it’s not a good idea, we’ll just scrap it.”

Roy responded to a question about whether or not the proposal would affect any other residential zone in town by clarifying that, for the moment, all other zones would keep their current regulations.

Responding to a question concerning whether it would be one or many developers building on the land, Roy reiterated that the issue now was purely a question of zoning laws. He assured the group that any construction by any developer going forward would have to be cleared by the council at the appropriate time.

One resident asked what, as has happened before, would prevent the lots from sitting empty and remaining undeveloped for years. One way of preventing this, Roy said, is to pass a law that nothing smaller than an eight-apartment building can be built on the lot. Another option is to introduce a special tax on unused lots, so it is not worth it to keep the lot unused. He reassured the group that they are not at the point where “every 10 square meters” of unused land will be taxed extra. He noted the town would receive a large “welcome tax” were the new land to be developed.

Proulx asked if this was the sort of thing the town could have a referendum on and was answered in the affirmative. “We’re not trying to shove this down people’s throat,” said Roy. The public will be consulted every step of the way.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The city of Sherbrooke celebrated a milestone with the official opening of the new Grandes-Fourches Bridge Dec. 20.

Work began on the bridge in August, 2021 and was scheduled to be completed by the end of 2022, but the project was suspended in November of 2021 until funding could be secured for mandatory decontamination work, which significantly increased the cost as well as the timeline to complete the bridge.

New bridge

The Grandes-Fourches Bridge project, long awaited the community, required a total investment of $47.5 million, states a press release. This project was supported by a grant of $26 million from the Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility. The financial breakdown of the project includes $10.3 million for road construction, $10.5 million for the bridge construction, $2.25 million for the demolition of the old bridge, $2 million for preparatory studies, $3.1 million for professional fees including architecture, engineering, and work supervision, $11.1 million for decontamination, and $8.25 million for acquisitions.

A significant aspect of the project involved the demolition of the Terrill Street and Grandes-Fourches North interchange, replaced by a modern roundabout. This change is expected to improve traffic flow and safety in the area.

“I’m proud to tell you that the inauguration of this bridge, of the Grandes Fourches axis, which we hope is the last stage to find a unifying element, is an accomplishment today that marks a new era for our downtown and our future,” Kibonge said.

Emphasizing the bridge’s unique design, resembling an inverted canoe, he expressed pride in this accomplishment, marking a new era for the downtown area. Kibonge elaborated on the broader implications of the project, including the revitalization of the Saint-François River’s banks and the transformation of the city center. He thanked various partners and local businesses for their contributions, emphasizing the project’s local roots and its impact on future generations.

Hébert highlighted the new bridge’s role in integrating safe and friendly modes of transportation like walking and cycling.

“The railway bridge is one of the biggest bearers of our beautiful city and its beautiful rivers. It is a completely unique, historic site full of potential,” Hébert said.

During the question period, the focus shifted to technical aspects and future urban development. Caroline Gravel, Sherbrooke’s Director of Urban Infrastructure Services, answered questions about the project’s current status and future steps.

Gravel addressed a technical question about the impact of changing the bridge’s axis, which has created a new railway crossing. This change delayed the work and there was concern about potential traffic congestion if a train passes during peak hours. Prevention systems are now installed on all level crossings on the link, which are designed to avoid future traffic congestion issues. Gravel elaborated on the functioning of these new preventative barriers, which operate depending on the train’s speed, to facilitate smoother traffic flow.

She outlined the remaining steps to be taken after the bridge’s opening and assured that the work will not block the bridge but will be used minimally for truck traffic.

“There are old ramps that provided access to the old bridge, which need to be removed, along with concrete walls that protected the banks. The agreement we have with the Ministry of the Environment is that we must restore the banks to their natural state, so we have to remove all these structures and not leave them in the landscape,” Gravel explained.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In a Dec. 18 special public meeting presided over by Mayor Simon Roy, the Ayer’s Cliff town council presented and approved the town’s budget for 2024. The key highlight of the budget was the anticipated tax increase for the year. For a home valued at $300,000, the tax hike is estimated at around 4 per cent. The hike is primarily due to fixed costs such as garbage, recycling, and compost fees, which have collectively risen by approximately $80 per residence. This increase is a direct pass-through cost, as the town does not profit from these services.

Budget overview

The total budget for the upcoming year is projected at $2.7 million, marking a $300,000 or 10 per cent increase from the previous year. This surge is attributed to additional investments in infrastructure and the creation of a contingency fund for future financial stability. The fund, amounting to 1 per cent of the budget or $25,000 annually, is designed to cushion the town against financial shocks, such as the end of grant subsidies for certain projects.

A substantial portion of the budget is allocated to various projects, including maintenance and infrastructure development. Notable expenses include the fire service costs, which have significantly risen due to the construction of new fire stations and the purchase of a fire truck. The budget also covers costs for waste management and firefighting services, which have both seen considerable increases this year.

The council has made strategic decisions to address future financial challenges and ensure sustainable growth. These include planning for long-term loan payments without grant support and increasing reserves to prevent abrupt tax hikes in the future. The town’s financial health is reportedly stable, with several successful initiatives and surplus generation ($150,000), indicating prudent financial management and planning.

Question period

Over 30 residents attended the meeting and were given the opportunity to question the budget presented.

One resident asked if property evaluations would be redone in the next three or four years. Re-evaluations will be done next year, responded Roy. “We’ve [had] about a 30 per cent increase in the first year of this term,” he said; many properties increased in value by “50, 60, even 80 per cent”. He thinks that the market will calm down during the course of the next year, but prices will certainly increase. They will adjust taxes accordingly.

Another resident asked why there was such a large increase (40+ per cent) in the budget for waste management. “It’s because we don’t do [it],” answered Roy. The work is contracted out, and only one company quoted a price for garbage, two for compost. The town must pay what the garbage company wants, he admitted. Roy noted that Sainte-Catherine-de-Hatley’s snowplowing costs recently tripled. “It’s crazy,” responded the resident. There are some great opportunities to get into the waste management business right now, Roy joked to chuckles from the audience. For a $300,000 home, the price has gone up about $80 per year, he reiterated.

A resident asked if waste management service for those near the end of the town’s routes would improve. Such residents would appreciate a text or a phone call when the trucks are late or plan on coming another day. Roy acknowledged the problem, but explained that the lower cost of the company compared to others that made offers made sticking with them the right decision for the town. The resident responded that those that receive worse service are paying the same as everyone else, which is not fair. Recycling has come late three times out of the last four weeks, said another woman. Roy urged them to call the town when this happens and speculated that putting waste management under the responsibility of the town in the future might be a good idea.

There will be a project to redo the skating rink using concrete, Roy said, responding to a question about why $600,000 was set aside for its renovation. With a concrete base, tennis or pickleball could be played on it in the summer. The change would also make it easier to put ice on the rink in the winter. The town is looking to finance the project primarily with voluntary donations and grants. If those do not come through, the project will not happen.

The beach is not under the responsibility of the town, Roy explained, when a citizen asked why it did not appear in the budget. The beach belongs to the Regie du Parc Massawippi (RPM). A portion of what the town pays towards the RPM goes towards the beach: $6,000. It is an excellent investment, he continued, because that money is mostly going towards the payment of the loan that was used to buy the beach. The beach will generate revenue in the future.

The meeting was adjourned at around 6:40 p.m.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

As the holiday season casts its long shadow with shorter days and increased social isolation, Dr. Steven Grover of McGill University emphasizes the profound benefits of exercise as a remedy for the mental and physical health challenges that many face during this time. With insights on combating Seasonal Affective Disorder, loneliness, and the sedentary lifestyle that often accompanies winter’s chill, Dr. Grover’s advice offers a beacon of hope. His expert opinion underscores the vital role of physical activity in maintaining wellbeing, particularly in a season marked by overindulgence and potential disconnect.

“As we go into the holiday season there are a bunch of things that are working against us in terms of mental health,” said Grover. If you are about to spend two weeks celebrating with family and friends, he added, you likely have it covered. For those who are less fortunate, it is a tough time for a number of reasons:

1) The shortest days of the year are upon us and the lack of sunlight in Canada is “problematic”. Anyone with even a tendency towards Seasonal Affective Disorder will start to feel the effects of less daylight on their sleep, mood and eating habits. “The absence of light is not healthy.”

2) For those who will not be soon surrounded by family, social connectivity will start to fall off, given they will not be working and may see their friends less. “Loneliness, to various degrees, is a major issue.”

3) Poor weather can be a problem as well, making getting out of the house difficult. Many will likely not exercise as much as they usually do.

Lack of exercise is a particularly important factor here, since it is the main and most efficient remedy to all of the above problems. Exercise outdoors is ideal, but indoor exercise will suffice if that is not possible. Regular exercise helps you sleep better, and lowers anxiety, stress and depression symptoms.

“The research data on exercise is so compelling,” he insisted, it has been shown to be as good as any medication out there, some data suggesting it is even better. He emphasized that he is not proposing prescribed medication should be replaced by exercise.

Exercise also helps you manage metabolic health risk factors, he continued, such as a blood pressure and blood sugar levels, with or without diabetes. It is crucial at a time when you might be partying, overeating and gaining weight. Even if you have no physical or mental health issues, “getting out is really important”.

For those without a holiday-time social circle, getting out to a gym or community centre is a great idea. He does not believe digital social connections are as good as real social connections. But they are better than nothing, “certainly better than watching television all day long”.

Superior to social media, he suggests, is a “facetime” or “zoom” interaction where you can see the other person’s face. People can get down on themselves on social media by looking at how others present their lives. “Everybody is posting about how great their life is.” This is the time of year that these forms of distress are likely to occur, so people need to know feeling this way is normal and they are not alone.

Finally, Grover extolled the virtues of “mindfulness”. Good information can be found on YouTube as to how to relax mindfully. The holidays are an excellent time to learn how to practice mindfulness, which can be done in a few weeks. “It’s not that complicated.”

Accessing mental health resources in Estrie

Mental Health Estrie was contacted by The Record for a quick list of suggestions on some good options for those struggling with their mental health this holiday season. For those seeking mental health support in the Estrie region, a variety of resources are available:

– Mental Health Estrie offers assistance and can be contacted at 819-565-3777 or through their email at info@mentalhealthestrie.com

– 811 Health Line: To speak with a nurse, choose option 1, or for a psychosocial intervener, select option 2.

– CHUS’ Hotel-Dieu and Fleurimont hospitals provide services at 819-346-1110.

– The provincial helpline for suicide prevention is available at 1-866-277-3556 for those in crisis.

– Kids Help Phone offers support for young people. You can call 1-800-668-6868 or text 686868 for assistance.

– Vent Over Tea is an online platform offering a listening ear, accessible at ventovertea.com

– Secours Amitié Estrie is available at 819-564-2323 for those needing someone to talk to.

Construction refusals and fire station location troubles

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A denied construction request, by notable local Paul Desmarais, and complaints concerning the location of the new fire hall in Fitch Bay, figured prominently at Stanstead Township’s monthly meeting Dec. 11.

The issue with Desmarais’ request was the number of trees that would need to be cut to make way for his proposed building, said Director General Matthieu Simoneau in a Dec. 12 interview. Their bylaws allow for a building the size Desmarais wanted, but it was to be built in a forested area. The intended building was an 800 square meter waterfront principal residence including an indoor tennis court.

Georgeville, a town in Stanstead Township, used to have its own firehall, but the recent opening of a large, new firehall in nearby Fitch Bay, which now serves the whole area, caused the Georgeville firehall to be closed down. It was part of the plan from the beginning, Simoneau explained, that all the local firetrucks and equipment would be housed in the new firehall. The difference in location was expressly validated as not a safety issue before construction, he noted.

However, anyone who lives further than 8 km from a firehall must pay more in insurance, which some residents are newly realizing and find problematic. There is no real possibility or “avenue” to change these circumstances, Simoneau said; it was one of the conditions of approval for the new firehall that everything be moved there at a central location. “It’s more effective… It’s important to have the best infrastructure possible to respond to emergencies.”

In a general update, Simoneau noted the Fitch Bay Road construction is almost completed. A few details, remain, but the road is now “beautiful new asphalt”. The council will be looking for a grant in the future to fix up the local covered bridge. Other roads in Fitch Bay are on the docket for maintenance, likely in 2025.

Bishop’s Principal assures community future is bright at 180^th anniversary celebration

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

“We’re going to be okay!” Bishop’s University (BU) Principal Sébastien Lebel-Grenier assured the BU community during a speech at the university’s Dec. 8 celebration of its 180^th anniversary; the statement was made in the face of Quebec government proposed tuition hikes that he has termed an “existential threat” to BU.

Between noon and 1 p.m., members of the BU community came together and enjoyed hot chocolate and purple-frosted cupcakes before BU Student Representative Council President Sophia Stacey, Odanak Chief Richard O’Bomsawin, and Lebel-Grenier took turns addressing the gathering. To round off the event, purple gloves were handed out with ‘main dans la main’ and ‘hand in hand’ written on them, a small choir of BU community members sang, and the crowd formed a large ‘180’ in BU’s Quad to be captured by a camera-sporting drone hovering overhead.

Following a land acknowledgement, Stacey introduced O’Bomsawin. “Times have changed and education has changed,” he said. When his people walked the land, education was not in buildings and in schools; the land itself was their education. “The land taught us everything we needed to know.”

Education was a right of passage – neither book, nor story, nor history. Though the world and education system are now different, the land is still here and is your oldest teacher. More can be learned from the land than schools, he insisted.

He thanked everyone for “sharing the land” with his people. “We’ll always walk hand in hand with you.” He emphasized that peace and friendships conquer all and he hopes that, together, the school will survive another 180 years.

Stacey took the stage. One word kept coming back to her as she reflected on BU’s 180 years of existence: community. None of BU’s many accomplishments would have been possible without the tens of thousands of people that “walked the halls before us”. BU has weathered many storms and adapted to meet the needs of each new era. The recent proposed tuition hikes are only the most recent big challenge.

Let us raise the bar for the aspirations of BU, she said, and maintain BU as a lighthouse for inspiration, a catalyst for change, and place with a sense of purpose and belonging. “May the flame of education burn brightly for another 180 years.”

Finally, Lebel-Grenier addressed the crowd, first thanking O’Bomsawin and Stacey for speaking at the event.

BU has been through “thick and thin” and is again demonstrating its perseverance, determination and unity, he said. Challenging times bring clarity and this one is no different, bringing to the fore important truths about BU.

He stressed that institutions create, support and propel communities. BU has been central to the Eastern Townships anglophone community, but also the diverse anglophone communities of Quebec.

Lebel-Grenier thinks BU is stronger because of its diversity, noting its student body is made up of anglophone and francophone Quebecers, out-of-province Canadian students and those from around the world. The same goes for BU’s staff, he added.

It has recently been demonstrated that BU matters to the local community. On Oct. 31, regional community leaders gathered at BU in a show of support that highlights the essential part BU plays in the area. They all refuse to see BU as a threat to the French language. This display of solidarity, he said, resonated with students and staff and gave them confidence in BU’s future. “We owe them a round of applause.”

He wished he could convey the government’s final decision on the tuition crisis, which he was previously confident he would be able to do, but the decision has “yet again” been delayed, probably for another week. “I’ll keep you informed.”

BU is in constant communication with the government, who continues to maintain BU is not a threat to the French language, and BU will be benefitting from special measures that will allow it to persist “in continuity with its rich history”. “In other words, we are going to be okay,” he said, to applause and hoots of approval.

BU was founded in 1843 to offer a “sound liberal education on reasonable terms”, Lebel-Grenier continued. Its curriculum encompassed the classics, in the original Latin and Greek, ancient history, theology, philosophy, and mathematics. While BU’s curriculum has evolved, it still has the same mission. “We should all be proud of the work being done here.”

The BU model challenges students to be autonomous, think critically, communicate effectively, and be curious life-long learners. Those who contributed to BU’s evolution must be acknowledged, for it is on the foundation they built that BU can look to the next 180 years with optimism. “Happy celebrations!”

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Despite the sacrifices, local striking unions, part of Quebec’s Common Front of 420,000 public sector workers, are determined to see things through, and some associations are showing their support.

In a show of student unity and activism, the Student Association of Cégep de Sherbrooke (SACS) has announced its unequivocal support for the Common Front’s recent picketing movement at the Cégep campus. The Common Front’s strike, spanning from Dec. 8 to 14, is intended to put pressure on the government at the negotiating table with the stated effort of improving public sector working conditions. The SACS declaration follows a resolution passed at the General Assembly of the association on Oct. 3, underscoring the student body’s firm commitment to the causes championed by the Common Front.

Local teachers

“We know that our strike sequences are having an effect at the negotiating table,” said Brigitte Robert, President of Champlain Lennoxville’s SECCL teacher’s union, a member of the Common Front. The government recently offered the Common Front members a 12.7 per cent salary increase over the next five years, up from their previous offer of 10.3 per cent. The offer was refused. “It was not good enough for us,” said Robert, “because it doesn’t catch up to inflation.”

However, the Common Front sees that the government is “trying”, Robert noted, and there will be a meeting of the government’s negotiating committee this week. There is nothing official yet, she added, but “the rhythm has changed”.

Champlain Lennoxville has revised its school calendar in reaction to the Common Front’s strike actions, to ensure students’ continued success, explained Robert. The semester will now end on Dec. 26 and there will be no makeup classes in January. She is not expecting the school to use Dec. 26, but it is there just in case there is a storm or other obstruction.

One weekend day, Dec. 16, has been newly set aside for exams. The teaching days lost due to the strike, five and a half days, she reiterated, are “gone”. This was a “puzzle” for teachers, and many simply canceled their end of semester evaluations in response, since students could not be reasonably expected to be prepared. Some teachers opted for take-home exams, which add to their marking load, she noted. Since teachers do not wish to work while on strike, exams they have handed out are due on Dec. 15 or later. “We’re going to be grading all over Christmas.”

A mother of young children who are off school because of the strike, Robert cannot always bring them to the picket lines because of her role as President of the SECCL. They came to the strike with her last Friday and played in the snow. There is a table set up with “candy and sweet stuff”; her children said they came for the food.

Robert’s parents live in Sherbrooke, so her children can sometimes stay with their grandparents. She has two or three babysitters, young teenagers, who are also off school and can help out. It is too bad her children are missing school, but they do not seem to mind too much, she said with a laugh.

She acknowledges the difficulties parents are facing due to the strikes. Some are taking sick days from their bank, which takes a toll. Robert has a large network of colleagues with children, and has heard that many are dealing with the challenge by alternating between them who takes care of everyone’s kids. “We can manage and collaborate”. She is sure they are doing the right thing by putting pressure on the government, and all the parents she has talked to are supportive of the strike, though it is not very convenient.

Some teachers live paycheck to paycheck and are really sacrificing, she continued. The CSQ, a subgroup of unions part of the larger Common Front, is offering interest free loans for the equivalent of one week’s wages. Many members she knows have applied. “People are financially strained.”

Robert’s union’s strike fund is “rapidly depleting”. It has lowered its “strike pay” from $120 to $80 so it lasts longer, just in case more strike actions extend into the future. Single parents are finding it especially hard, she noted, as well as situations where both parents in a family are part of the Common Front.

The Common Front will be demonstrating Dec. 12 in front of Saint-Francois MNA Geneviève Hébert’s office. Dec. 13 there will be a “striker’s Christmas” event held locally, and picketing will continue throughout the week.

Student support

Marking their support in a tangible manner, the SACS have set up a distinctive tent at the Cégep de Sherbrooke picketing site. This move is emblematic of their active participation and solidarity with the members of the Common Front, states a press release. The Executive Council of the association is expected to be often present, playing an active role in the proceedings.

The association has extended a warm invitation to all Cégep de Sherbrooke students to join the picket line in a show of solidarity and support for the significant issues at stake. This collective mobilization is not just a mere gathering but a significant opportunity for the student community to visibly and vocally express their commitment to the ideals and objectives of the Common Front.

In a statement, the association expressed its belief that this demonstration is a potent display of the strength and unity of the student voice within the institution. They have called upon the entire student community to join forces in this significant event, to collectively amplify their support for the Common Front and the values it represents.

This development at Cégep de Sherbrooke is a vivid example of student activism and solidarity in the face of pressing social and educational issues, reflecting a broader trend of student involvement in civic and community matters across educational institutions.

The SACS’ mission is to defend the rights of the school’s students, said Abdoullah Hajji, Information Officer & Co-spokesperson of the association, and many students are training at the school with the intention of becoming workers in Quebec’s public sector. So, supporting the Common Front is closely related to supporting their own.

Some students find the strikes to be a good cause and wish to support their professors, he went on. Some are disappointed they are missing classes. They know the professors are doing their best to finish the semester as best as they can.

Hajji emphasized SACS will always be there to support the Common Front in its efforts to improve the working conditions of its members.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Sherbrooke has been ranked as the second most desirable place to live in Canada, based on the surge in housing prices in 2023. A recent study conducted by real estate experts at KelownaHomes.ca provided a comprehensive analysis, utilizing data from The Canada Real Estate Association, highlighting the year-on-year growth in average house prices from September 2022 to September 2023.

Topping the list is Powell River in British Columbia, which saw an impressive 40.5 per cent increase in average house prices over the past year. Sherbrooke follows closely, securing the second spot with an astonishing 29 per cent rise in average house prices from the previous year. This increase reflects a growing interest in Sherbrooke, with the average house price now standing at $515,155, marking a $115,732 jump from last year.

This latest data sheds light on the dynamic shifts in Canada’s real estate landscape, spotlighting regions like Sherbrooke as burgeoning hotspots for homeowners and investors alike. The findings underscore the evolving preferences and priorities of Canadian homebuyers, with these areas emerging as key destinations for those seeking residential opportunities.

“We’ve got two universities, a French one and an English one,” explained local Real Estate Agent Max Messier, which both have a big impact on the market. The CIUSS de l’Estrie – CHUS hospital is also a big employer, Messier said, and is a comparatively rare feature of the area. Sherbrooke’s Industrial Park brings in a lot of people too, he added.

He sees a lot of people leaving Montreal, with the possibility of remote work making the Townships an attractive option. Many come for the bigger properties and make the commute back to Montreal once every one or two weeks.

The mountains, skiing, lakes and proximity to Montreal and the U.S. border are also important selling features. “Location is everything in the Townships.” Many are coming back to the Townships after leaving, recognizing its potential for a heightened quality of life.

According to the slightly different statistics Messier recently received, the 2023 median cost for a property in Sherbrooke was $377,000. Last year it was $350,000. The average price of a property is $486,000.

Messier acknowledged the 29 per cent increase in average price from last year, but cautioned against assuming this will continue. “I’d like to have a crystal ball, believe me,” he said wryly. He emphasized that those who properly maintain their properties are likely to make a profit. It is clear from the data this year, he insisted, that non-maintained houses’ prices do not increase. This is a change from the pandemic years, where every property increased in value regardless.

During the pandemic, prices did not quite double, but increased dramatically, he continued. Before 2020, one could find something for around $200,000. Now, it is impossible, he said, “below $300,000 to $350,000 – forget about it.”

Kathleen Hartwell receives Order of the Diocese of Quebec

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Local Kathleen Hartwell (Kay) received the prestigious Order of the Diocese of Quebec in a Dec. 3 ceremony at St. George’s in Lennoxville, recognizing her lifetime of service and commitment to the Anglican Church. Her laudable accomplishments are detailed in a nomination letter authored by Archdeacon of Quebec Edward Simonton. The significance of the Order is outlined in the letter of confirmation Bishop Bruce Myers sent to Kay in response.

Raised in Lennoxville and a lifelong attendee of St. George’s, Kay’s journey in faith and service began in her youth, states Simonton’s letter of nomination. She was actively involved in various church groups, including the Little Helpers, Junior Auxiliary, and Girls’ Auxiliary. Her dedication continued into adulthood, earning her the status of a lifetime member of the Anglican Church Women (ACW).

Kay’s contributions extended beyond her home parish. In the Greater Parish of Coaticook, she took on roles as a lay reader, pastoral visitor, and parish treasurer. Her administrative skills were invaluable in her role as secretary, where she prepared weekly bulletins and other essential parish documents.

After returning to St. George’s, Lennoxville, Kay continued to serve as a lay reader and pastoral visitor. She also held positions as a member of the Parish Guild, president of the Parish Council, and completed a four-year Education for Ministry course.

Her influence reached the diocesan level, where Kay was a delegate to the General Synod and Diocesan Synod. She contributed as a member and treasurer of the St. Francis Deanery Council, sat on the Diocesan Executive Committee, and was involved in various other committees. Notably, she served on the Companion Diocese Committee and joined Bishop Bruce Stavert on international trips to the Philippines and Ireland, representing the diocese.

Kay was instrumental in organizing intercultural exchanges, including a visit to Quebec by Irish youth in 2005 and facilitating a reciprocal visit for Quebec youth to Ireland in 2006.

The Deanery Ministry Committee highlights Kay’s unwavering faith and dedication as an Anglican Christian as the primary reason for her nomination. “This award would be a token of our love for Kay, who has given so much of her love to the Church,” Simonton expressed of behalf of the committee.

In response to the nomination, Myers formally informed Kay of her upcoming investiture as a member of the Order of the Diocese of Quebec. This honour, said Myers’ letter, established by the Synod of the diocese in 2012, is awarded to laypeople who have made significant contributions to the work of the church within the diocese over the years. Kay’s dedication and service have clearly met these criteria, he wrote.

Myers wrote that the Dec. 3 ceremony would be a fitting acknowledgment of Kay’s tireless efforts and unwavering faithfulness to the church’s life and work over the years, and recognize her as an exemplar of dedication and service within the Anglican community.

Kay officially received the honour Sunday at 11 a.m., halfway through the church’s regular service. The ACW presented her with flowers for the occasion, followed by a short speech by Lennoxville ACW President Ferne McConnell. The service was followed by a large reception in the church’s hall, with around 50 community members and clergy in attendance.

Bishop’s University celebrates its 180^th anniversary

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Bishop’s University (BU) is officially celebrating its 180^th year of existence Dec. 8. What better way to acknowledge this milestone than an in-depth interview with notable local and BU alumni Will Mitchell? Mitchell, who attended in the ‘60s, spoke on his time at BU, its evolution from his time there to the present, and what the place means to him, touching, as best he could, on every facet of BU’s mission: from sports to the arts, business to the sciences, enrolment, the residences, and campus setup. Historical article summaries and photos from The Record are woven into his narrative to provide a glimpse into moments of BU’s storied past.

“I arrived on [BU] campus in the fall of 1964,” Mitchell recounted. He was a student of political science and economics. “I loved everything about it.”

From the area, Mitchell was a former Bishop’s College School (BCS) student, having boarded there for nine years, so he knew BU’s campus well and always intended to study there.

After four years, he graduated and worked in “financial business” in Montreal for a year. He decided that would never “take”, so he returned to BU and studied education. His first job in teaching was at Trinity College School in Port Hope, Ontario, where he worked for 11 years. Returning to Quebec, he taught at Lower Canada College for three years, then was the Head of School at Selwyn House in Montreal for 24 years, retiring in 2008.

Afterwards, he worked as the executive director of the Canadian Association of Independent Schools for a year. Shortly thereafter, he learned BCS was looking for an interim Head of School and led the prestigious high school for three years starting in 2013, with another single year later on when the school was again in the same position.

Mitchell, a star athlete at BU in the ‘60s, was on the hockey and football teams. He remembers his first year at BU there were only around 600 students. “It was basically like a high school.” Mitchell played football under legendary coach Bruce Coulter.

Times have changed, he added, of the 15 athletes on BU’s champion football team, 11 were also on the hockey team. One could be on more than one team then, which is much different than the specialization required today. “What it has grown into… is delightful to see,” Mitchell noted. By the time he left in ’68, there were over 1,000 students…

From the archives:

1998: Bishop’s basketball team celebrates national championship win

“The Bishop’s men’s basketball team, crowned CIAU National Champions last weekend, is still soaking in their remarkable victory. Jamie Woods, a key guard for the Gaiters, expressed his disbelief at the team’s journey from being one of the country’s worst in 1994 to national champions four years later. “This is a dream come true,” said Woods, emphasizing the hard work and practice that led to this success…The Gaiters’ triumph is not just a testament to their skill and dedication but also a moment that will stand out in the university’s sports history.”

Now, Mitchell continued, the school has over 2,600 students. The expansion of programs and opportunities for students, such as the Maple League and similar initiatives, has him proud of what BU continues to do and aspires to do in the future.

Mitchell’s family has been connected to BU “forever”. “There are way too many Mitchells around,” he joked. He continues to support BU by going to football games.

Mitchell views nothing as negative in BU’s evolution over the years. BU has stuck to its principles as a Liberal Arts school, while understanding that it needs to keep with the modern world.

The recent provincial government proposal to double tuition for out-of-province students studying in Quebec was “a shocker”. He was proud of BU and its community’s response. He attended the recent gathering at BU’s Centennial Theatre, where over 100 community leaders jointly showed their support for the institution in the face of this proposal that poses, as Lebel-Grenier has said, an existential threat to BU. “I was in tears in the back of the hall, because the community rallied in a spectacular way.”

The glee club, Deep Purples, were great, remembered Mitchell, returning to the topic of his time as a student. One of the years at the Winter Carnival, Chicago, a rock band of the era, performed. Winter Carnival at the time involved a “ski day” and a Carnival ball. “It was quite a mid-winter break.”

From the archives:

1984: University Singers of Lennoxville welcomes new members for exciting season

“Founded in the early ’60s by Bishop’s University Professor Emeritus Howard Brown, the choir comprises both students and community members. This year, they plan to present their traditional Christmas concert and a special Bach-Handel 300th Birthday Bash in April. They will also collaborate with the Choir of Knox College from the University of Toronto for a concert-workshop featuring Mozart’s Missa Brevis in B-flat.

Nancy Rahn, now in her third year as the choir’s director, brings extensive experience in community music and teaching. With a background in piano and voice from British Columbia, and studies in England, Rahn also instructs piano at Bishop’s University and Lennoxville Elementary School.”

The business school was quite new, said Mitchell, when he was there. It was a small part of what BU “delivered” at the time. He took Business 101 and a few other related courses. Everyone fit into a single lecture room in the Nicholls building…

From the archives:

1997: Business school renamed to honour benefactor

“Bishop’s University has renamed its business and economics division to honor alumnus and benefactor David Williams. The department is now known as the Williams School of Business and Economics, marking the occasion with a special ceremony on Thursday.

Williams, a 1963 graduate of Bishop’s University, has contributed over $3 million to his alma mater, along with his time and expertise. Now a retired investment manager residing in Ontario, Williams’ donations have significantly bolstered the university’s resources and prestige.”

BU’s Gait used to be its gymnasium, Mitchell said, a standalone building. The Student Union Building was to be built later. The Johnson building was built sometime during his time there, as well as the Munster and Abbott residences. They all were “state of the art” for their time.

He emphasized that BU has meant a great deal to his family. He will continue to support it in every way he can. Many institutions are not having an easy time these days, but it is important to find good institutions that one can trust and to support them, for they sustain our civilization. “We’re having to rely on them more and more, but they are being tested more and more.”

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Sherbrooke has been ranked as the second most desirable place to live in Canada, based on the surge in housing prices in 2023. A recent study conducted by real estate experts at KelownaHomes.ca provided a comprehensive analysis, utilizing data from The Canada Real Estate Association, highlighting the year-on-year growth in average house prices from September 2022 to September 2023.

Topping the list is Powell River in British Columbia, which saw an impressive 40.5 per cent increase in average house prices over the past year. Sherbrooke follows closely, securing the second spot with an astonishing 29 per cent rise in average house prices from the previous year. This increase reflects a growing interest in Sherbrooke, with the average house price now standing at $515,155, marking a $115,732 jump from last year.

This latest data sheds light on the dynamic shifts in Canada’s real estate landscape, spotlighting regions like Sherbrooke as burgeoning hotspots for homeowners and investors alike. The findings underscore the evolving preferences and priorities of Canadian homebuyers, with these areas emerging as key destinations for those seeking residential opportunities.

“We’ve got two universities, a French one and an English one,” explained local Real Estate Agent Max Messier, which both have a big impact on the market. The CIUSS de l’Estrie – CHUS hospital is also a big employer, Messier said, and is a comparatively rare feature of the area. Sherbrooke’s Industrial Park brings in a lot of people too, he added.

He sees a lot of people leaving Montreal, with the possibility of remote work making the Townships an attractive option. Many come for the bigger properties and make the commute back to Montreal once every one or two weeks.

The mountains, skiing, lakes and proximity to Montreal and the U.S. border are also important selling features. “Location is everything in the Townships.” Many are coming back to the Townships after leaving, recognizing its potential for a heightened quality of life.

According to the slightly different statistics Messier recently received, the 2023 median cost for a property in Sherbrooke was $377,000. Last year it was $350,000. The average price of a property is $486,000.

Messier acknowledged the 29 per cent increase in average price from last year, but cautioned against assuming this will continue. “I’d like to have a crystal ball, believe me,” he said wryly. He emphasized that those who properly maintain their properties are likely to make a profit. It is clear from the data this year, he insisted, that non-maintained houses’ prices do not increase. This is a change from the pandemic years, where every property increased in value regardless.

During the pandemic, prices did not quite double, but increased dramatically, he continued. Before 2020, one could find something for around $200,000. Now, it is impossible, he said, “below $300,000 to $350,000 – forget about it.”

Sporting performances of Galt athletes top tier last weekend

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The basketball and hockey skills of Alexander Galt Regional High School’s male and female athletes dazzled throughout southern Quebec last weekend. Notably, the Junior Boys’ Hockey Team went undefeated and won the Soulanges Pionniers’ Tournament in Saint Polycarpe, and the Senior Girls’ Basketball Team won a tournament held at Sherbrooke’s CEGEP.

The Junior Boys’ Hockey team won all five games they played on their way to being tournament champions by winning the finals 3-2 against Cardinal-Roy, said Galt’s Athletic Director Robbie Fisk. The winning goal was scored with 56 seconds remaining in the game. The Senior Boys’ Hockey team lost 1-2 in their final of the same tournament. The Bantam Boys’ Hockey Team went 1-1-1 and failed to make the finals.

The Senior Girls’ Basketball Team went 3-1, winning their final championship game by four points. Eight teams participated in the tournament. The Bantam Girls’ Basketball Team made a valiant effort but failed to win a game.

The Senior Boys Basketball Team participated in a tournament at Howard S. Billings High School in Chateauguay, but Fisk had not yet heard what the results were.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The future of North Hatley’s marina was a hot topic at the town’s monthly council meeting held Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. Mayor Marcella Davis Gerrish presided over the notably short meeting (around 35 minutes), with a total of three residents in attendance. The low hum of a generator powering the meeting at the town’s community centre could be heard throughout, as the area was suffering from a power outage. Local events, budgeting, and financial aid were also discussed.

On the topic of North Hatley’s marina, it was stated that the council was aware of the many options they had to choose from regarding the marina’s model of operation for the 2024 season. It noted its commitment to an independent and transparent assessment of these options. Thus, it confirmed its decision to hire advisory firm Raymond Chabot Grant Thornton (RCGT) to aid in this task.

During question period, a local resident inquired as to why RCGT was hired to advise on the marina’s future when they are “more financial experts than anything else”. Gerrish acknowledged that the marina is a “hot topic” for those in the municipality. The council reached out to different people to look at the “global situation” to see what can and should be offered at the marina. The intention is to then present this information to residents. RCGT has a division with an employee who has previously analyzed three or four marinas to determine “what makes sense going forward”.

The resident then asked whether or not the company would be looking at the marina in its context as part of the center of the town. Just the marina, the land the marina sits on, and the services that are offered there, responded Gerrish.

The resident emphasized she thinks anything that happens with the marina must be part of an overall vision for the center of town. She worries that money will be spent on the marina that will not take into account other related problems with the center of town, particularly the fact it is a flood zone. Gerrish assured her that “all of that” will be taken into consideration.

Gerrish insisted the municipality will continue to own the marina and it is, therefore, its responsibility to figure out what it can do with the marina “without hurting anyone in the process”. Not everything in the center of town is owned by the town, Gerrish noted. Gerrish reaffirmed that there will be a public consultation pursuant to RCGT’s findings. “The goal from day one… was to include the population, because it’s our decision,” Gerrish said.

General Director Benoit Tremblay assured the resident that RCGT was qualified and this was only the first step towards determining what is to be the “global vision for the future” of the area. The resident asked to see the contract in question, but was told only the “service offer” could be made public, which will be put up on the town’s website shortly. RCGT’s analysis is predicted to take eight weeks.

Gerrish thanked members of the town’s public works department for helping with the second annual “lighting of the Christmas tree” event held Dec. 1. Some 30 to 60 locals attended and enjoyed the hot chocolate, coffee and donuts provided. It was nice to see such a turnout, given the bad weather, she added.

The town’s Christmas market will be held Dec. 9, from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., in River Park. An extraordinary public meeting of the council will be conducted Dec. 13 concerning the adoption of the town’s 2024 budget. The Environment Committee will be putting out a series of “enviro-letters”, starting in December, explaining the various environmental concerns it has; its first will detail what it thinks is the best way to manage the town’s “shoreline zone”.

Two new town workers were confirmed as hired. The council reported that $44,361.72 was spent in total wages for the town’s employees in November. Monies amounting to a maximum of $104,045, before taxes, were confirmed to pay for renovations on the community centre for “better energy efficiency”.

Two resolutions were adopted to allow local residences to make minor modifications to their buildings. A resolution to put in a request for financial aid to improve the community centre for its new temporary role as a “child centre” was adopted. At the request of the MRC, the council adopted new regulations concerning alarm systems in the municipality. The council renewed a contract with the Red Cross, for $225, concerning helping “those in need”.

The meeting was adjourned at around 7:35 p.m.

Sporting performances of Galt athletes top tier last weekend

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The basketball and hockey skills of Alexander Galt Regional High School’s male and female athletes dazzled throughout southern Quebec last weekend. Notably, the Junior Boys’ Hockey Team went undefeated and won the Soulanges Pionniers’ Tournament in Saint Polycarpe, and the Senior Girls’ Basketball Team won a tournament held at Sherbrooke’s CEGEP.

The Junior Boys’ Hockey team won all five games they played on their way to being tournament champions by winning the finals 3-2 against Cardinal-Roy, said Galt’s Athletic Director Robbie Fisk. The winning goal was scored with 56 seconds remaining in the game. The Senior Boys’ Hockey team lost 1-2 in their final of the same tournament. The Bantam Boys’ Hockey Team went 1-1-1 and failed to make the finals.

The Senior Girls’ Basketball Team went 3-1, winning their final championship game by four points. Eight teams participated in the tournament. The Bantam Girls’ Basketball Team made a valiant effort but failed to win a game.

The Senior Boys Basketball Team participated in a tournament at Howard S. Billings High School in Chateauguay, but Fisk had not yet heard what the results were.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In a groundbreaking legal move, the Arsenault, Dufresne and Wee (ADW) law firm has launched a class action lawsuit against the Sherbrooke Archdiocese, holding it responsible for alleged sexual abuses spanning from the 1930s to the present. The lawsuit seeks to address systemic failures within the Archdiocese and obtain justice for over 75 claimants who allege abuse by clergy and church personnel. With the promise of anonymity and no requirement for a police report, ADW urges all affected individuals to step forward in a pivotal moment for accountability and historical redress.

“This class action suit is aimed at the Sherbrooke Archdiocese,” said ADW Lawyer Jérôme Aucoin, targeting the Archdiocese’s liability for the fault of its subordinates. The individual priests or volunteer workers that are allegedly at fault are not being pursued by Aucoin’s firm. “It is almost like going against the employer for the fault of the employees,” he explained, which is a principle recognized in civil law in Quebec.

The suit concerns alleged sexual abuses that took place from the 1930s to the present day. These were said to have been committed by priests, employees of the church or volunteers.

The ADW is also alleging that the Archdiocese “could not ignore” the many actions of their priests; their handling of the problem is also faulty, since, for instance, they did not work out a “politics or framework” to protect their parishioners.

More than 75 people have contacted his firm and detailed cases of sexual abuse, reporting that over 40 individuals, mostly priests, but also a volunteer worker and an organist, are involved. All the accused are francophone, or have French names, he noted.

The firm is looking for reparations from the Archdiocese, but also public recognition of wrongdoing. It is important for the members of the lawsuit that they be acknowledged as victims of abuse, for often they were either not believed or told not to speak about what they had undergone. The firm will ask for a letter of apology along with damages, both of symbolic significance, Aucoin said.

Aucoin views it as abnormal that no English-speaking Townshipper has come forward to join the suit. The region has an important Irish heritage, he continued; there is an English-speaking Catholic population. He wonders if “something is going on”.

His firm does not have the exact numbers or a percentage of the English Catholics in the Townships, but they do know where they are primarily located: Ayer’s Cliff, North Hatley and Melbourne.

It is important for people to know, Aucoin insisted, that everything anyone tells them and anyone’s participation in the suit is protected by complete anonymity. A judge of Quebec’s Superior Court has ordered that the names of those involved be “entirely withheld”. Participation is completely free, Aucoin added.

No police report has to be filed, and no criminal action against any alleged abuser will be taken as result of this civil lawsuit.

Those who participate will speak with the firm and make a deposition, and the firm will document the consequences the abuse had on their lives. Damages in civil law are calculated according to the severity of the consequences.

Aucoin hopes everyone affected will call in, for the more people that take part, the stronger the claim. We are living through a historical moment where the wrongdoings of the past can be corrected in court, Aucoin emphasized. He recognizes it is not easy to speak up, but it is very important to do so.

The ADW can be contacted, regarding this suit, by phone: 514-527-8903, or email: actioncollective@adwavocats.com

Bishop’s St. Mark’s Chapel Choir to hold Carol Services this weekend

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Bishop’s University’s (BU) St. Mark’s Chapel Choir will be putting on its two annual Carol Services this weekend, Dec. 9 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 10 at 2 p.m. Director Sarah Heath will conduct the 22-member choral group in a series of anthems peppered throughout many traditional Christmas carols that all attending may sing along to. The event will be candle-lit and feature a local trumpeter, Nicolas Leblanc, and the Chapel’s organ, played by BU’s organist Pam Eby.

In years past, only one Carol Service was held, but it was so popular that two rows of extra chairs had to be placed in the aisle. “It was a bit of a hazard,” Heath admitted. So, they decided to do it twice. Heath has been heading the service for 11 years and also ran it back when she was a student at BU.

These carol services have been put on within anyone’s living memory, Heath said, possibly for over 100 years. It’s form models Cambridge university’s “nine lessons and carols” service. Readings are accompanied by a thematically-related carol or anthem, starting from the Garden of Eden to the birth of Christ. BU students, staff, and community members make up the group doing readings. BU Chaplain Jesse Dymond will be presiding over the service, but there is no communion or homily, Heath noted, just song after glorious song.

The choir used to travel into Cookshire to put on a version of the service, but no more, Heath explained. “It’s too much for the students at the end of the semester.”

The choir’s ranks are filled mostly by students, with some community members to top it off. “It’s a very strong choir this year,” Heath insisted. They sing together every Sunday, but really look forward to the Carol Services every year. Preparation began in October.

Last year the chapel lost power during the service, so it was “very candle-lit”, said Heath with a chuckle. She hopes it will not happen again, because the organ runs on electricity. Trumpeter Leblanc has been joining them for many years, and is well-known on the local music scene, Heath said. The service will conclude with a trumpet/organ duet postlude.

BU Student Ava Bogyay, who is taking conducting lessons for credit, will conduct one of the anthems.

Parking will be free on campus for the events, and Heath suggests arriving early to get a good seat. The service is free, but there will be a time for a voluntary offering, the proceeds of which go towards supporting music at St. Mark’s.