Author name: The Record

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Ayers Cliff’s Gospel Chapel hosted a Vacation Bible School (VBS) last week, offering a range of free Christian-based activities for children from across the Eastern Townships. Morris Roy, the camp’s Activity Coordinator, shared details Aug. 15 about the event, which brought together local children for a week of faith, fun, and community building.

“We had 25 kids attend,” said Roy. “The kids come from different municipalities—places like Stanstead, Magog, Waterville—and they don’t have to belong to a church to attend.” The VBS ran from Monday to Friday, Aug. 12 to 16, with children arriving each day from 9:30 a.m. to noon. “It’s full of songs, activities, stories, crafts, and games,” Roy explained.

The camp was sponsored by a Christian church, but Roy emphasized its inclusiveness. “It’s a Christian program where we share Bible stories, but the songs are fun and engaging, so it’s welcoming to all kids,” he said. Roy clarified that the camp was a day camp only, with no overnight stays.

Roy is already looking ahead to next year. “We’re thinking of doing it again,” he said. “It should be filled out by more kids next time.” Though this year’s camp is over, families can look forward to next summer’s VBS, with plans already in motion for another fun-filled week in 2025.

Unit 318 (The Hut) board members. Photo courtesy

Veterans’ biennial convention returns to Quebec for the first time in over 50 years

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

For the first time in over 50 years, Sherbrooke will play host to the 56th biennial convention of the Army, Navy, and Airforce Veterans in Canada (ANAVETS), an event set to bring together approximately 153 delegates from across the country. The convention will take place from Sept. 6 to 11 at the Delta Hotel in Sherbrooke, and according to ANAVETS Dominion Command Vice President Linda Caron, the gathering is a milestone for Quebec.

In an interview with The Record on Aug. 15, Caron described the significance of the event for the province, as the last time the convention was held in Quebec was either in 1970 or 1972. “We don’t have the exact time because it’s way, way archived,” she said, but emphasized that it had been over 52 years.

She further noted that the ANAVETS association itself dates back even further, to 1840 when it was founded by Queen Victoria in Montreal. The event will see representation from ANAVETS units across the country, from Prince Edward Island to British Columbia, as well as international guests from the United States.

Caron’s personal journey to bring the convention to Quebec began in 2018 when she led the bid to host the event in Sherbrooke. Recalling her experience, she shared, “I stood there and I fought for them to come to Quebec.” The emotional significance of the victory was clear, with Caron admitting that it was not an easy battle. Nevertheless, Caron persisted, and despite the event being postponed due to COVID-19, she is now overjoyed to see it finally taking place this year.

The convention will serve as a vital opportunity for veterans and their families to access crucial services and resources. As outlined in a detailed email from ANAVETS Unit #318, booths at the event will feature organizations such as Veterans Affairs, which will provide information on benefits and services, and the Veterans Review and Appeal Board, which will be available to answer questions about the appeals process for disability claims.

The Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families, formerly the Centre of Excellence on PTSD, will offer resources and information on PTSD and other issues affecting veterans and their families. Mental Health First Aid for Veterans will also be present to provide details on their free program, available in both official languages.

Caron emphasized the importance of these resources, particularly in helping veterans who might not otherwise seek support. “We have so many veterans that we don’t even know about because they want to stay out of the light,” she said. The booths will be available from Sunday through Wednesday during the convention, offering veterans and their families a chance to engage with these services and find the help they need.

In addition to these services, the convention will also feature a variety of social and ceremonial activities. According to an email from ANAVETS Unit #318, the event will kick off with a large parade and wreath-laying ceremony at the cenotaph in Lennoxville on Sunday, Sept. 8. This will be followed by an opening ceremony at the Delta Hotel, officially marking the start of the convention. Throughout the week, delegates will participate in meetings focused on resolutions and plans for ANAVETS’ future, as well as social events including live music and dancing. A sports day is also planned, featuring games such as darts, pool, and cribbage, providing delegates with a chance to relax and connect with one another.

The community of Sherbrooke has played an essential role in making the convention possible. Since 2018, numerous fundraisers have been held to support the event, which Caron described as “very expensive.” However, thanks to the collaboration of local organizations and businesses, as well as the support of the town of Sherbrooke, the convention is set to be a success. “We’re very blessed,” Caron said, noting that the community’s involvement has been crucial in ensuring the event runs smoothly.

One of the biggest challenges in organizing the convention has been coordinating transportation for delegates arriving from across the country. Most delegates will be flying into Montreal, and buses have been arranged to transport them to Sherbrooke. “We were hoping that the airport in East Angus would be open, but that’s not happening,” Caron said. Despite this setback, she expressed confidence that the transportation arrangements will work out, thanks to the cooperation of numerous partners.

The convention will continue through the week, with meetings being held all day on Monday, as delegates discuss resolutions and set the course for ANAVETS over the next two years. More meetings will take place on Tuesday and Wednesday, with a special sports day scheduled for Tuesday afternoon. On Wednesday, lifetime memberships and other awards will be handed out, and the new Dominion Command board will be announced. The convention will conclude with a closing banquet at the Delta Hotel on Wednesday evening, with delegates returning home on Thursday.

As Sherbrooke prepares to welcome veterans and delegates from across Canada and beyond, the event promises to be both a celebration of military service and an opportunity for ANAVETS to chart its future course. For Caron and the local ANAVETS Unit #318, hosting the convention is a significant achievement, one that reflects the strength and resilience of Quebec’s veteran community. “Let us show the rest of the country what a jewel we have here,” Caron said in an additional email, emphasizing the pride that she and her team feel in making the event happen.

Shawna Chatterton-Jerome, Coordinator of Indigenous Student Support Services and Documentary Producer, Marc-André Laberge, Project Coordinator, Benjamin Tabah, Documentary Producer, Daniel Brière, Documentary Filmmaker. Photo courtesy of Bishop’s University

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Bishop’s University (BU) has reached a significant milestone in the renovation of Kwigw8mna (formerly Divinity House), the Indigenous Students’ Gathering Space and Resource Centre, marking the halfway point in the construction of this project. The transformation of this historic building, located on the university’s campus, is set to offer a welcoming environment for Indigenous students while fostering cultural exchange and understanding among the broader university community.

According to the BU website, the name Kwigw8mna, which translates to “our and everyone’s house” in Abenaki, was bestowed upon the building by Chief Rick O’Bomsawin of Odanak. The building is intended to be a “home away from home” for Indigenous students, providing them with a comfortable and resourceful environment, while also serving as a space for cultural exchange where non-Indigenous members of the university can learn about Indigenous cultures.

Shawna Chatterton-Jerome, Coordinator of Indigenous Student Support Services at BU, provided significant insights during a recent interview about the current state of the project. She explained that the renovation of Kwigw8mna began in December 2023, but the project has faced several challenges due to the building’s age, which dates back to the 1800s.

“We had to remove everything and literally just leave kind of the skeleton of the building,” Chatterton-Jerome said, describing the extensive work required to preserve the historic structure while making it safe for modern use. She noted that some of the brick walls were crumbling and not solid enough to build on, necessitating the introduction of a metal structure to support the building.

These structural challenges have caused delays in the project timeline. “Originally, we were looking at completing the project by October 2024,” Chatterton-Jerome explained. “But because of these structural problems that are out of our hands and kind of develop in the moment, the opening will now align more with the beginning of 2025.” While the exact month remains uncertain, she estimated that the building could be ready by February, with March being the latest possible completion date.

Despite these setbacks, Chatterton-Jerome emphasized the importance of the project and the careful attention being paid to every detail, including the cultural significance of the space. “This building is really going to be something amazing on campus where Indigenous students will be able to call home away from home,” she said.

The BU website states the design of Kwigw8mna reflects a deep commitment to creating a culturally affirming space for Indigenous students. The basement will serve as a quiet study area exclusively for Indigenous students, while half of the main floor will be accessible only to them, providing a safe space for relaxation and community-building.

The renovation project also includes the addition of an apartment on the top floor, which will be dedicated to hosting Indigenous elders, guest speakers, and family members. Chatterton-Jerome highlighted the importance of this feature, stating, “The apartment will offer a safe and comfortable space for our guests to feel at home while being in close company of our Indigenous students and support people.”

Another key aspect of the renovation is the emphasis on supporting Indigenous professionals and artists. Chatterton-Jerome mentioned that the university has made a concerted effort to involve Indigenous talent in the project, including hiring Daniel Brière, a filmmaker from the Wolastoqiyik Wahsipekuk Nation, to produce a documentary chronicling the transformation of Kwigw8mna.

“Our goal is to really kind of tell that story,” she said, explaining that the documentary will not only capture the building’s physical transformation but also explore the broader significance of the project. “We’re including interviews with past students, past workers, and others who have been involved in the project from the beginning, to show how this building went from a theology building to something that can now facilitate cultural exchange and support Indigenous students on campus.”

According to the BU website, the project, with an initial estimated total cost of $6.9 million, received $5.9 million in funding from the Government of Quebec. This funding was announced by Jean-François Roberge, Minister of Education and Higher Education, in October 2019. Because of various setbacks, the project will end up costing over $16 million.

In addition to the functional spaces, the building will showcase Indigenous art, further reinforcing the university’s commitment to celebrating Indigenous cultures. The integration of Indigenous artists into the project ensures that the building not only serves its purpose but also resonates with the identities and histories of its Indigenous occupants. “We’re hoping this building will become a focal point where people can get resources if they want to get educated on Indigenous matters,” Chatterton-Jerome said.

Stanstead residents raise concerns during council meeting

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

During the recent Aug. 12 Stanstead monthly town council meeting, residents voiced multiple concerns during the first question period, covering a range of issues from traffic congestion and water quality to noise pollution and the condition of local sidewalks. Led by Mayor Jody Stone, the council responded to each matter, with varying degrees of resolution and plans for future action.

Traffic congestion and border crossing issues

One of the most pressing concerns brought forward by residents was the significant traffic congestion caused by vehicles attempting to cross the U.S. border. These vehicles, often lining up on provincial roads like Dufferin, Notre-Dame, and Railroad, have been blocking local roads and private driveways, leading to frustration and safety concerns among the community.

A resident explained, “The issue of blocked roads in Stanstead has become very serious… I called the SQ [Sûreté du Québec] this morning,” highlighting the extent of the issue. The resident further elaborated on the problem, stating that drivers waiting to cross the border frequently block driveways, preventing residents from leaving their homes. “There was a woman this morning who wanted to leave her driveway to go to work, but there was an inconsiderate person blocking her entrance,” the resident recounted.

In response, the council acknowledged the problem but emphasized that it falls under provincial jurisdiction, managed by the SQ. “This isn’t something that the town of Stanstead can manage on its own,” a council member stated, noting that while the town is affected, the responsibility for managing this issue lies with provincial and federal authorities.

The council did, however, express a commitment to continue raising the issue with both the SQ and federal representatives. They recognized the need for a coordinated effort between provincial and federal governments to address the problem, particularly during peak traffic periods such as holidays. A potential, albeit unlikely, solution discussed was to restrict access to local residents only during these times, requiring a significant deployment of personnel for enforcement.

Water quality complaints

Another issue raised during the meeting involved complaints about water quality. A resident reported experiencing brown water at their home and criticized the lack of communication from the town regarding any ongoing work on the water system. “A weekend ago, I was dealing with brown water, and I wasn’t informed that they were doing work on the water system,” the resident stated, questioning why there had been no prior notice.

In response, the council clarified that while there had been some work done on the water system recently, including inspections and minor repairs, there was no need for a full water shutdown. “We did some work last week on Principale Street, we assessed the situation, and we didn’t have to shut off the water,” a council member explained.

The council acknowledged that communication could have been better, noting that notices were posted on Facebook, but not all residents were directly informed. They also mentioned that the town is working on implementing a new notification system that would allow residents to sign up for direct alerts via text message for future water-related issues.

Sidewalk conditions

The condition of sidewalks, particularly near Rock of Ages and along Main Street, was another significant concern discussed during the meeting. Residents pointed out the difficulty of navigating these areas safely, especially for those with mobility issues. One resident noted, “When I try to cross near Rock of Ages, I have to walk on the street,” highlighting the hazardous conditions.

The council responded by acknowledging the issue and explaining the financial constraints that limit the extent of sidewalk repairs each year. “This year, we’ve allocated $100,000 annually for roadwork,” Stone explained, detailing the town’s efforts to gradually increase the budget for road and sidewalk repairs.

While the council expressed a commitment to improving the sidewalks, they also noted that immediate, widespread repairs are challenging due to budget limitations. They are prioritizing repairs on main streets, where pedestrian traffic is highest, and hope to address more areas as the budget allows.

Noise and dust pollution from Rock of Ages

Noise and dust pollution from the Rock of Ages industrial site were also brought up by a concerned resident. The resident described the disruptive impact of the noise, particularly at night, and the dust that settles in residential areas nearby. “Now there’s another noise issue—large trucks are coming in and unloading granite at 2 a.m., and when they unload empty, it makes a huge noise,” the resident explained, emphasizing the disturbance caused by the site’s operations.

The council acknowledged the ongoing issues but pointed out that Rock of Ages operates within an industrial zone and, as such, has certain rights. A council member added that while the town has limited authority over the site, they are monitoring the situation closely.

A resident proposed the formation of a committee that would include both residents and council members to address these concerns more effectively. The goal would be to establish a dialogue with Rock of Ages to seek mutually acceptable solutions to reduce the impact on the local community. The council encouraged ongoing dialogue with the company, but there was no explicit agreement to form a committee as the resident proposed.

Council communication and visibility

A broader concern regarding the council’s communication and visibility within the community was also raised during the meeting. A resident expressed disappointment over the perceived lack of proactive engagement from council members, particularly outside of election periods. “I want this council to be more proactive rather than reactive,” the resident urged.

The council acknowledged this criticism and committed to improving communication channels, including more regular updates and direct notifications for residents, as well as increasing their presence in the community.

Ahmed Moneka. Photo courtesy

Afro-Iraqi musician and former refugee talks life journey, music

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

On Aug. 15, at 8 p.m., Moneka Arabic Jazz will bring their unique blend of “Funky Arab Music” to Parc Quintal in Sherbrooke as part of the highly anticipated Festival des Traditions du Monde. Led by Ahmed Moneka, the Toronto-based band fuses African grooves with Arab melodies, creating a vibrant and multicultural soundscape that resonates with themes of nostalgia, tolerance, and universal community.

In an interview with The Record on August 12, Moneka shared the rich details of his life journey, which deeply influences his music. Moneka described his background as a mix of Iraqi, African, and English influences. He grew up immersed in the African Sufi rituals that his family has practiced since the 7th century, when they migrated from Mombasa, Kenya, to Basra, Iraq.

These rituals, which he learned as a child, were centered on healing and community, with music playing a crucial role. “When we were kids, we sang folk songs and played drums, learning these rituals,” Moneka said, recalling how guests would visit his grandfather’s house for these ceremonies.

Moneka’s journey to Canada began in the context of his work in theatre and film. In 2011, he was involved in a short film that addressed sensitive social issues in Iraq. Although Moneka and his colleagues were straight, the film, which was about LGBTQ+ issues, led to threats from militia groups.

“This is not us as Iraqis. This is not our attitude,” Moneka emphasized, reflecting on the dangerous situation. The film was eventually accepted at the Cannes Film Festival in 2015, and when Moneka traveled to France for the screening, he received a call from his father warning him not to return to Iraq, as his life was at risk. “I got stuck here now almost nine years,” Moneka said, referring to his unexpected exile in Canada.

Despite the challenges of starting over in a new country, Moneka found solace and purpose in music. “Music saved my life,” he said. He initially joined Moskitto Bar, a band that blends Balkan, Celtic, Arabic, and Latin influences, marking his first experience as a musician.

Through this project, Moneka realized that people in North America lacked exposure to joyful Arabic music, which inspired him to create Moneka Arabic Jazz. His goal with this band is to spread joy, love, and a true representation of Arab culture. “I want to clarify the real image about us as Arab people in North America,” Moneka explained.

Moneka is now based in Toronto, where he lives with his French wife from Paris and their five-year-old daughter. Reflecting on his life experiences, Moneka highlighted the importance of joy and love, especially given the dark moments he has witnessed.

“I’ve seen a lot in my life — civil war, death, but also peace, purpose, and meaning,” he said. At 33 years old, Moneka is committed to using his music to bridge people together and reject the negativity that often surrounds discussions about war and conflict. “If we don’t live in the dark, we don’t appreciate the light,” he added.

For those attending the upcoming concert in Sherbrooke, Moneka promises a rich and eclectic musical experience that reflects his diverse influences. “You will hear the inspiration of three continents: West Asia, East Africa, and North America,” he enthused. The performance will feature African grooves, Arabic identity, and North American jazz, along with elements of reggae and funk. “It’s going to be an incredible celebration of diversity and unity,” Moneka said.

The concert in Sherbrooke is part of an extensive Canadian tour that has taken Moneka Arabic Jazz across the country. “We’ve been really busy, traveling non-stop,” Moneka said, listing stops in Alberta, Saskatchewan, Winnipeg, Nova Scotia, and Montreal, where they performed at the Montreal Jazz Festival and Nuit d’Afrique. In addition to his work with Moneka Arabic Jazz, Moneka continues to perform with Moskitto Bar, including an upcoming show on Aug. 17 in Montreal.

Looking ahead, Moneka revealed plans for more international performances after wrapping up their Canadian tour on Aug. 23 with a final show at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto. “Then we’re going to South Korea,” he said, adding that they have played in Chile and Colombia, and are also considering shows in the United States, including potential performances at wineries in the fall. “We’re still talking with presenters in the U.S. to finalize those plans.”

Moneka encourages listeners to explore the band’s music online. “Our first album is available, and I really hope people take the time to listen. Music is a powerful tool for connection, and I want as many people as possible to feel the joy and love we pour into our music,” he said.

Afro-Iraqi heritage: Rituals of resilience and cultural survival

The Afro-Iraqi community, which constitutes about 5 per cent of Iraq’s population, has a rich history dating back to the ninth century when Africans were brought to Iraq primarily as slaves during the Islamic Abbasid Caliphate. Despite enduring centuries of oppression, racism, and discrimination, Afro-Iraqis have managed to preserve their unique cultural rituals, which are essential to their communal identity and spiritual well-being.

According to researchers Amir Al-Azraki and Thawrah Yousif Yaqoob, whose work was published in The Black Theatre Review, these rituals, originating from various African diasporic lineages, have been passed down orally through generations. However, they now face the threat of extinction as knowledge keepers age and younger generations encounter systemic barriers to preserving these traditions.

Afro-Iraqi rituals, often held in sacred spaces called “makeed,” are deeply spiritual, serving multiple purposes including healing and honouring ancestors. Rituals like “Nuban” involve music, dance, and ceremonial practices that connect participants to their African roots and provide a sense of community and resilience.

Unfortunately, these rituals are often stigmatized within Iraqi society, dismissed as “barbaric” or “irreligious.” This perception is rooted in long-standing racism and a lack of understanding of Afro-Iraqi cultural practices. Nevertheless, the community continues to practice and pass on these rituals, recognizing their importance in maintaining cultural identity and spiritual connection.

Al-Azraki and Yaqoob emphasize that these rituals are not just cultural practices but vital links to ancestors and sources of spiritual strength. They argue that documenting and preserving Afro-Iraqi heritage is crucial for challenging stereotypes and ensuring the continuation of these unique cultural practices.

Stanstead Township rejects annexation of Magog’s District 6

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Stanstead Township Municipal Council has firmly rejected the annexation of Magog’s District 6, despite the district’s ongoing campaign to join the township. This decision was officially communicated in an Aug. 9 press release and was further elaborated upon in interviews with key stakeholders involved in the matter.

The council’s position

In the Aug. 9 press release, the Municipal Council of Stanstead Township addressed the rising discussions and public statements advocating for the annexation of District 6 of Magog into Stanstead. The council clarified that they have no intention of pursuing or entertaining any such request. The council emphasized that the annexation would more than double the population, territory, and annual budget of the township, creating “enormous logistical and administrative challenges” that would require a significant increase in personnel and the reorganization of services, including public safety.

Furthermore, the council expressed concerns about the potential disruption to the peace and stability of current residents. “Given the scale of the effort required on our part to analyze the impacts of a request of this nature, the members of Council are of the opinion that such an undertaking would needlessly unsettle the peace of mind of Canton’s residents and give rise to concerns to which we do not wish to expose our fellow citizens,” the statement read.

The council said its decision is final, and they have made it clear that “the matter is closed” as far as they are concerned.

Administrative and logistical concerns

In an interview on Aug. 13, Matthieu Simoneau, the Director General of Stanstead Township, elaborated on the council’s decision. He noted that while there is no issue with the intentions of the annexation proponents, the scale of the project and the lack of detailed information about its potential impacts were significant concerns.

Simoneau highlighted that the annexation would require a thorough analysis of various administrative and legal aspects, including differences in laws and administrative procedures between Canton Stanstead and Magog. Simoneau explained, “It’s a big project, and the council has other projects, too. He also mentioned that the council wanted to avoid misleading the proponents into spending money on analyses or presentations that would ultimately be futile, given the council’s current stance.

District 6’s perspective and motivations

District 6 of Magog, a largely rural area, has been pushing for annexation into Stanstead Township due to what residents describe as “outrageous tax increases” under Magog’s administration. Allan Smith, President of the Association Memphré Rural, which is spearheading the annexation effort, explained in an Aug. 13 interview that the tax increases are a result of the provincial government’s structure for municipal financing, which is based on market property values. These increases have been particularly dramatic in recent years, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic, which turbocharged real estate values.

Smith provided historical context for the annexation effort, noting that District 6 was originally part of the Canton Magog before being forcibly merged with Magog during municipal fusion efforts led by the Parti Québécois years ago. Despite winning a referendum to remain separate, the district was merged with Magog due to insufficient participation, a situation Smith attributes to the lack of social media and mobilization at the time.

The annexation proponents believe that joining Stanstead Township would better align with District 6’s rural identity, which features farms, summer homes, and a landscape centered around Lake Memphremagog and Lake Lovering. Smith argued that the rural nature of District 6 is more compatible with Stanstead Township than with the more urbanized Magog.

Financial and political implications

Smith also addressed the financial implications of the annexation. He argued that the annexation would bring substantial tax revenue to Stanstead Township without significantly increasing its infrastructure costs. “We would bring in far more than we would cost in terms of infrastructure,” Smith said. He acknowledged, however, that Stanstead’s council is conservative with its finances, which likely influenced their decision to reject the annexation.

Looking ahead, Smith mentioned that the Association Memphré Rural would be holding an executive meeting to discuss their next steps and prepare for their annual meeting on Aug. 25. The group’s membership has grown to about 750 people, all of whom have signed a petition requesting annexation by Stanstead Township.

When asked about the future of the annexation effort, Smith acknowledged that political dynamics could change, particularly with the upcoming municipal elections in both Stanstead and Magog in 2025. “There’s room for action there, and I’m sure that’s one of the things we’re going to consider,” he said. Smith also noted that the representative for District 6 is unlikely to run for re-election, and the same may be true for the current mayor of Stanstead Township, which could open the door for new discussions.

Smith suggested that a broader regional merger, potentially including the neighbouring township of Ogden, might make more sense in the long term. He argued that such a merger would create a more viable and resilient entity, better able to resist the encroachment of urban ambitions from cities like Magog.

Cookshire Fair Board VP Jerry Coates shows off one of the soon-to-be set up rides that attendees will enjoy this weekend. Photo by William Crooks

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Cookshire Fair is set to make a triumphant return this year, with one major highlight sure to thrill attendees: the much-anticipated return of the rides.

After a challenging year without them, Cookshire Fair Board Vice President Jerry Coates confirmed that the rides are back, a decision driven by strong community demand. “People really wanted them back,” Coates explained in a Aug. 12 interview on the scene. “We’re trying, especially after COVID. It’s hard, but we have to respect our budgets. People seem to want them, so we have to listen.”

The fair, which has been a staple in the community for 178 years, will feature a variety of activities spread over several days, including the popular “pulls” events on Friday and Saturday nights, bingo on Thursday, and a parade on Sunday. Coates emphasized the fair’s rich history and its role in the community, noting, “When I was a kid, this was my vacation. There are still kids for whom this is their vacation for the summer. We’ve got to keep this going.”

Beyond the rides, fairgoers can expect a full slate of events including the modified mini-mod tractor pulls, various animal exhibitions, Farmers’ Olympics for kids, and the 4-H shows. Entertainment will also be plentiful, with bands scheduled to play on the grandstand when other activities aren’t taking place.

However, Coates made it clear that the fair’s success depends not only on good weather but also on the community’s involvement. The fair still needs volunteers to help manage the various events and ensure everything runs smoothly. “A lot of work has gone into being sure that we can have the rides back,” Coates said. “Now, if the weather holds, we’ve got it made.” People who wish to volunteer can call this number: 819-875-3771

With parking available on the grounds again this year—a change from last year—Coates expressed optimism about the fair’s prospects, saying, “We’re hoping for an extraordinary year. Things are starting to look good.”

As the fair approaches, the buzz around town is growing, and the community’s excitement is palpable. “It’s part of our history here,” Coates said. “We’re looking forward to seeing everyone come out and enjoy it.”

The Cookshire Fair will run from Thursday, Aug. 15, through Sunday, Aug. 18, offering something for everyone and reinforcing its status as a beloved local tradition. Find out much more in The Record’s insert on the fair in this Thursday’s paper.

Dr. Danilo Fernandes da Silva. Courtesy: Bishop’s University

Local prof elevates athletic performance with advanced exercise physiology

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Dr. Danilo Fernandes da Silva, an Assistant Professor in the Sports Studies department at Bishop’s University (BU), has been making significant contributions to the field of applied exercise physiology since his arrival in 2022. With academic roots in Brazil, where he completed his BSc, MSc, and PhD at the State University of Maringá, Dr. da Silva’s research primarily focuses on exercise prescription and training monitoring, with a particular emphasis on female athletes. His innovative work with BU sports teams, including the women’s soccer and rugby teams, showcases his commitment to enhancing athletic performance and well-being through scientific methods.

Innovative collaboration with BU sports teams

In an Aug. 8 interview, Dr. da Silva detailed his ongoing collaboration with the BU women’s soccer and rugby teams, a partnership that began in the fall of 2023 with the rugby team and extended to the soccer team in the winter of 2024. His work centers on monitoring training loads to optimize performance and prevent injuries.

At the core of this collaboration is the use of the Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE), a well-established metric that athletes use to rate their exertion on a scale from 0 to 10 after each training session. This subjective measure is then compared with more objective physiological data, such as heart rate, to provide a comprehensive picture of an athlete’s response to training. “We apply a very popular metric… The coach can be aware because we can quickly turn around and provide weekly reports of the sessions,” Dr. da Silva explained.

The detailed process involves collecting planned RPE data from the coach before each session, which represents the intensity the coach expects the athletes to experience. After the session, the actual RPEs are collected from each athlete. Dr. da Silva and his research assistants then compare the planned and actual RPEs, along with heart rate data, to identify any discrepancies.

This data-driven approach enables coaches to refine their training prescriptions in real time. “We can minimize potential discrepancies with prescriptions,” Dr. da Silva insisted.

Expanding research to female athlete health

Beyond performance monitoring, Dr. da Silva’s research delves into the unique physiological and health challenges faced by female athletes. He is particularly interested in how reproductive health factors, such as menstrual cycle regularity and contraceptive use, impact athletic performance. “We are interested in putting together perceptual variables as well as physiological markers to try to identify the patterns of these markers over the course of a season,” he said.

One area of concern is the risk of low energy availability, a condition that can arise from a combination of factors including menstrual dysfunction, injury history, and gastrointestinal issues. “[These factors] can increase the risk of athletes experiencing certain negative outcomes throughout the season,” Dr. da Silva explained. By identifying these risks early, Dr. da Silva aims to help coaches and medical staff create more individualized training and recovery strategies.

Integrating stress and recovery into training monitoring

Another key aspect of Dr. da Silva’s work is understanding the role of stress and recovery in athletic performance. “We are also interested in sources and symptoms of stress because we’re dealing with athletes who are at the same time students,” he noted. By identifying the sources of stress—whether they stem from personal life, academic pressures, or training itself—Dr. da Silva hopes to provide coaches with the tools to better support their athletes.

To this end, he has begun incorporating heart rate variability (HRV) into his monitoring system. HRV is a measure of the variation in time between heartbeats and is considered a key indicator of an athlete’s stress levels and recovery state. “We do a resting, continuous monitoring throughout the season of what the variability of the heart rate of an athlete, which allows us to see if they are recovering well,” Dr. da Silva explained. By analyzing HRV data alongside RPE and heart rate information, Dr. da Silva aims to provide a more holistic view of an athlete’s readiness to perform.

High-intensity interval training and endurance research

Dr. da Silva’s expertise is not limited to team sports. He is also deeply involved in research related to endurance training, particularly high-intensity interval training (HIIT). This type of training, which alternates short bursts of intense activity with periods of rest, has gained popularity for its efficiency and effectiveness. “HIIT became very popular because in the past, some researchers identified that it’s a very good alternative if you lack time to exercise,” Dr. da Silva said.

In his research, Dr. da Silva explores how small modifications to HIIT sessions can impact an individual’s enjoyment and adherence to the exercise program. He is particularly interested in whether these modifications can be detected at a neurophysiological level. To do this, Dr. da Silva has partnered with colleagues in the Psychology and Computer Science departments at BU to use EEG technology to monitor brainwave patterns during HIIT sessions.

“We are in the middle of this, almost done with the data collection,” he noted. The goal is to determine whether variations in brainwave activity correspond with the participants’ reported enjoyment of the exercise. “Probably next year, we’re going to be analyzing this information, trying to understand if this previously identified variation in enjoyment that has been done with a simple scale can be explained in a more neurophysiological level,” Dr. da Silva said.

Contributions to Canadian athletes and future research

Dr. da Silva’s work at Bishop’s University not only contributes to the performance of the university’s sports teams but also has broader implications for Canadian athletes, including those competing at the Olympics. “A lot of the work we are doing is really aligned with similar work being done around the world in attempts to contribute to the development of female athletes in different sports,” he said. By improving training monitoring systems and understanding the physiological responses of female athletes, Dr. da Silva’s research helps create more effective training strategies, which can benefit athletes at all levels.

Looking ahead, Dr. da Silva plans to continue developing his training monitoring system, incorporating more physiological markers and expanding his research into the health and performance of female athletes. “We are trying to establish associations between these factors, and within these associations, we want to continuously create reports to the team staff, and at the same time, allow them to use this information to the benefit of the athlete,” he explained.

Anglophone community raises concerns about language rights in Quebec

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The debate surrounding Quebec’s Bill 96, formally known as the “Act respecting French, the official and common language of Quebec,” remains a heated topic, especially among the province’s anglophone community. The bill, which was passed by the National Assembly of Quebec on May 24, 2022, was intended to consolidate the status of French as Quebec’s common, official language. However, critics argue that the legislation has significant negative implications for English-speaking Quebecers, despite the government’s assurances.

To address concerns and dispel what it described as “falsehoods” about the bill, the Quebec government released a poster approximately two years ago, outlining what it claimed to be the facts about Bill 96. The poster emphasized the following points:

1. Health Services: The poster assured that English-speaking citizens would continue to have access to health services in their language, in the same way as before the adoption of Bill 96.

2. Education and Institutions: It claimed that the English-speaking communities would continue to benefit from a quality English-language school system, including colleges, universities, and hospitals, at a level unmatched by other French-speaking minorities in Canada.

3. Justice: The poster stated that English-speakers in Quebec would still benefit from the same constitutional guarantees concerning their access to justice in their language.

4. Indigenous Rights: The legislation, it said, would be applied in a manner consistent with the rights of the First Nations and Inuit communities, ensuring the preservation and development of Indigenous languages and cultures.

5. Searches and Seizures: Finally, the poster declared that the Office québécois de la langue française (OQLF) had never, nor would it ever, engage in arbitrary searches or seizures under Bill 96.

Despite these reassurances, Andrew Caddell, president of the Task Force on Linguistic Policy—a group established to oppose Bill 96—remains highly critical of the bill and its implications. In an interview on Aug. 7, Caddell expressed deep concerns about how the bill has been implemented, arguing that it unfairly targets Quebec’s anglophone community.

“Bill 96 is an abrogation that deliberately victimizes the anglophone community,” Caddell asserted. He pointed out that while the government promised continuity in access to services, the reality has been far more restrictive. “By suppressing another community’s access to services, you’re not promoting French or providing better services to francophones,” he said.

Caddell highlighted several examples where the bill’s application has been problematic. One of the most contentious issues, he noted, is the government’s narrow definition of an English-speaking citizen, now based on whether an individual holds a certificate proving that the majority of their education was in English in Canada. This criterion, according to Caddell, has unjustly excluded many English-speaking Quebecers from accessing services in their language.

“My father, who served our country in World War II, would not be considered an historic anglophone today because he spent seven years of his education in Scotland,” Caddell explained. He also noted that his son, who was educated partly in the United States, would likewise be ineligible under the new criteria. “You’re discriminating against 1.25 million citizens of Quebec who pay taxes and are involved in society, most of whom speak French.”

Caddell also criticized the government’s claim regarding the English-language education system. He argued that access to English-language education has become more restricted, with delays in issuing certificates preventing some students from enrolling in English schools. He cited an example involving Ukrainian students who faced significant delays in obtaining the necessary documentation to attend a specialized English-language school in Quebec.

Moreover, Caddell raised concerns about bilingual hospitals, such as Santa Cabrini and the Jewish General, which he said are now required to operate with French as the predominant language, thereby undermining their bilingual status. “Our hospitals are no longer truly bilingual,” Caddell argued. “Even the McGill University Health Centre has been instructed to conduct its board meetings in French.”

Geneviève Hébert, the local CAQ MNA and government whip, supports the legislation. In an Aug. 9 email response to The Record’s request for comment or an interview, Hébert’s office affirmed her support for Bill 96 and emphasized her sensitivity to the concerns of the English-speaking community. “She has always ensured that their interests are well represented to her government,” Hugo Dionne, press attaché, stated, highlighting that Hébert and her team maintain close ties with community actors and work collaboratively on issues affecting them.

Further addressing the ongoing debate, Quebec ministers Jean-François Roberge, Christian Dubé, and Eric Girard published an open letter on Aug. 9, aiming to clarify the government’s position, particularly in the context of health care. The ministers assured the public that the government’s intention “has never been to restrict access to health care for English speakers in Quebec.” They reiterated that every English-speaking individual in Quebec retains the right to receive health and social services in English, as enshrined in Section 15 of the Act respecting health services and social services.

The letter further clarified that the recent directive from the Ministry of Health and Social Services, which had raised concerns, “does not limit the circumstances under which users have the right to receive health and social services in English.” The ministers emphasized that no documentation or proof would be required from users to receive care in a particular language. Additionally, the letter acknowledged the special status of institutions like the Jewish General and Santa Cabrini hospitals, which the OQLF has recognized.

Photo: Régie Incendie Memphrémagog Est

Community rallies in support

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In the early hours of Wednesday, Aug. 7, disaster struck the Freniere family of Ogden, a small town near Stanstead. A devastating fire ravaged their home at approximately 5:40 a.m., leaving the family of four in despair as they lost all their belongings and cherished memories. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, with local authorities working diligently to determine its origin.

Fire Battalion Chief Dany Brus provided details about the incident in an Aug. 8 interview. “We got the call at 5:40 in the morning,” he said. “Two stations were dispatched: Station 1 from Stanstead and Station 2 from Stanstead Township, Fitch Bay.” Upon arrival, the house was already 30-40 per cent engulfed in flames.

Brus recounted the sequence of events: “The homeowner smelled smoke from his bedroom window, which woke him up. When he looked outside, he saw flames coming from the carport attached to the house. By the time we arrived, flames were coming out of the first floor, second floor, and it had caught the roof.”

The fire was extensive, and despite the efforts of the fire stations, the house was declared a total loss. “We proceeded to put the fire out, had our water source up the road, and had the power cut to the house,” Brus explained. “People were able to get out safely, and the Red Cross came on scene to take charge of the family.”

The Freniere family—a father, mother, son, and daughter—managed to escape unharmed. Brus emphasized the importance of smoke detectors in such situations. “Smoke detectors, smoke detectors, smoke detectors,” he stressed. “Luckily, the homeowner woke up and smelled smoke before the detectors went off. They would have woken him up anyway, which is good news.”

According to a GoFundMe webpage, Alex Davis has organized a fundraiser to assist the Freniere family with immediate needs such as food, clothing, and other essentials. The community has been called upon to support the family in their time of need.

“All donations will be sent straight to the family to help with necessities,” Davis wrote on the GoFundMe page. “Any donation, no matter how small, is greatly appreciated. It will help the family start moving forward again after this tragedy.”

Over $2,000 of a goal of $8,000 has already been raised.

Chief Brus confirmed that the investigation is ongoing, with no clear cause of the fire determined yet. “We’re going by process of elimination, but right now we don’t have a set cause,” he said.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The City of Sherbrooke has announced two water use reduction advisories for all residents, businesses, and enterprises for Aug. 13 and 20. The advisories are necessary due to planned maintenance on the water intake pipeline from Lake Memphremagog to the J.-M.-Jeanson water treatment plant. This directive was highlighted in a press release issued on Aug. 8 and elaborated on during a press conference the same day given by Patrice Grondin, Chief of Municipal Engineering at the city’s Engineering, Water, and Major Projects Service.

The advisories will be in effect for 24 hours starting at 7 a.m. on both days. Grondin detailed the rationale for these measures, emphasizing the critical nature of the repairs. “We have identified two minor leaks on the 27-kilometre pipeline that conveys water from Lake Memphremagog to our water treatment plant,” he explained. “These leaks, though minor, are causing us to lose approximately 75 to 80 cubic meters of water daily. Given the strategic importance of this pipeline, we cannot afford to leave it unchecked.”

Grondin assured that the situation is not an emergency. “The leaks are under control, and this intervention has been meticulously planned since the end of spring,” he stated. The repair work will involve welding the joints on the cement and steel pipeline to ensure it is fully sealed.

To facilitate the repairs, the city’s water pumping stations will be shut down temporarily, halting the water supply from the lake to the treatment plant. However, Grondin reassured residents that there would be no shortage of potable water during the maintenance periods. “We have about a dozen reservoirs across our network that will ensure continuous water distribution,” he said. “We are not expecting any water shortages, but we do ask the population to help us reduce consumption to preserve our reserves.”

Residents are urged to limit the use of domestic appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines, avoid filling pools and spas, postpone lawn watering if possible, and generally practice water-saving measures. The city has filled its potable water reserves to full capacity in anticipation of the maintenance work.

Grondin emphasized that the water quality will not be affected by these works, as the repairs are happening upstream of the treatment plant. “There is no need for a boil water advisory,” he confirmed. Additionally, he noted that reminders will be sent to the population the day before each intervention through the MonSherbrooke citizen portal.

During the press conference, Grondin also responded to questions from reporters. When asked about a similar advisory in Magog, he clarified, “Magog has its own water network and treatment plant, and their advisory is unrelated to our work.” He further addressed concerns about potential water supply interruptions due to emergencies, stating, “In case of a major break in our distribution network, we might have to postpone the work. But it would take a significant event for us to change our plans.”

The pipeline in question, which measures 900 mm in diameter, was installed in the mid-1960s and is expected to last over a century. “Given its importance, we are very attentive to its condition,” Grondin said. The city detected the leaks in the spring when certain areas around the pipeline remained wet even during dry periods. “This led us to investigate further, and we discovered the leaks,” he explained.

Grondin also mentioned the cost of the intervention, estimating it to be under $100,000 for both days of work. “This is not a considerable amount, but it is a necessary investment to maintain our infrastructure,” he noted.

For more information about Sherbrooke’s water network and to subscribe to important alerts, residents are encouraged to visit: sherbrooke.ca/monsherbrooke and sherbrooke.ca/eaupotable

Pascale Bussières, actress and spokesperson for the festival this year. Photo: Olivier Charbonneau

A celebration of international and local cinema

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Knowlton Film Festival is back for its fifth edition, running from Aug. 9 to 17, and promises to be its most dynamic and diverse event yet. With a robust line-up of 35 films, including several Quebec and Canadian premieres, and a range of special guests, the festival is poised to be a highlight of the cultural calendar in the Eastern Townships.

“This is the fifth edition of the Knowlton Film Festival, and it has grown significantly over the years. We are now well-established and proud to present a great selection of international films,” said Pascale Bussières, an actress, and festival spokesperson. Bussières has been the spokesperson for the festival for two years, witnessing its evolution and expanding influence in the cinematic world.

A diverse international selection

This year’s festival boasts an impressive array of films from around the globe. The opening film, “Rickerl,” an Austrian production by Adrian Goiginger, will be screened in the presence of lead actor and songwriter David Öllerer, also known as Voodoo Jürgens. Following the screening, Jürgens will perform a 45-minute musical set, blending film and live music for a unique opening night experience.

“We’re very happy to have this opening event,” Bussières noted, highlighting the significance of such international participation. Another notable international film is “Abroad” by Italian director Giovanni Fumu, who will also conduct a masterclass during the festival. “During a masterclass, the director usually talks about his work, reflections, and his approach to storytelling,” explained Bussières. These masterclasses offer festival attendees a unique opportunity to gain insights into the creative processes of accomplished filmmakers.

Celebrating local and Canadian talent

The festival is not only about international cinema; it also highlights local talent. On Aug. 15, the festival will feature a local short film competition, showcasing the creativity of filmmakers from the Eastern Townships and beyond.

In addition to short films, the festival includes two Quebec premieres: “After Work” by Swedish director Erik Gandini, who will be present at the festival, and “Joan Baez: I Am a Noise” by Miri Navasky, Maeve O’Boyle, and Karen O’Connor. Gandini will also offer a masterclass, providing a deeper dive into his film and the themes it explores.

Competitions and prestigious juries

This year, the festival introduces two new competitive categories: a feature-length documentary competition and a feature-length fiction competition. These additions bring the total number of competitive categories to three, including the established short film competition.

The feature-length fiction competition jury will be presided over by Claudia Puig, Programming Director of the Santa Barbara International Film Festival. The documentary competition jury will be chaired by Pierre-Philippe Côté, and the short film competition will be led by Ariane Roy-Poirier. Each jury is comprised of film industry professionals, ensuring a high standard of evaluation and recognition for the participating filmmakers.

“We are honoured to welcome Claudia Puig as the President of the Feature Jury,” said Bussières, noting the significance of bridging connections with other well-known film festivals.

Special events and screenings

Beyond the film screenings, the Knowlton Film Festival offers a rich program of special events. One of the most anticipated is the outdoor screening of “Dune: Part Two” at Douglass Beach, providing a stunning natural backdrop for this blockbuster film.

“We’re going to have some screenings in the United Church, which is right across the street from the Theatre Lac-Brome, our base camp. There will also be outdoor projections at Coldbrook Park right in the middle of the village,” Bussières explained. Additionally, there will be screenings at Café Caron & Frères, where a tent with a screen will be set up in the back.

The festival also features numerous music performances linked with the films. Many of the musicians performing are also composers for the films being shown, adding a layer of artistic cohesion to the event.

Masterclasses and workshops

A highlight of the festival is the series of masterclasses and workshops. These sessions are designed to offer festival attendees a chance to learn directly from accomplished filmmakers. Pierre Hébert, a renowned film director known for his work with the National Film Board of Canada, will lead a masterclass focusing on his extensive career and multidisciplinary approach to filmmaking. “He’s a film director, multidisciplinary artist, and he worked with Norman McLaren,” Bussières elaborated.

The festival also includes workshops for kids, such as motion capture animation sessions. “[A] whole day is going to be dedicated to animation. There are going to be some workshops for kids with motion captures, animated photographs for kids,” said Bussières, emphasizing the festival’s commitment to engaging younger audiences.

Tickets for the festival are available now and can be purchased on the festival’s official website: festivaldufilmdeknowlton.ca. Detailed information about the schedule, film line-up, and special events can be found on the festival’s Facebook page.

Jon MacAulay. Photo: courtesy

Townshipper and musician Jon MacAulay talks roots, career, and upcoming wedding

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Jon MacAulay, a proud Townshipper and accomplished musician, recently sat down for an interview Aug. 3 to discuss his journey, musical career, and upcoming wedding. Growing up in Scotstown, MacAulay has always been deeply connected to the Eastern Townships, and his story is a testament to the area’s rich cultural heritage.

MacAulay’s upbringing in Scotstown, a small town with a population of about 400 people, played a significant role in shaping his early interests and passions. “I was big into the outdoors over there,” he shared. “I did a lot of fishing and hunting and worked on many farms.” His early introduction to music came through piano lessons, which he started in grade one.

Despite his early start with the piano, MacAulay’s true passion for music blossomed when he picked up the guitar. “I was playing piano, and then I was kind of over it. I never really got into the classical thing,” he explained. “Some buddies of mine got into guitar, and I just kind of followed suit and kept playing. I think I’m probably the only one that’s still playing.”

His transition from piano to guitar marked the beginning of a significant chapter in his musical career. He eventually pursued formal education in music, studying at Bishop’s University and Champlain College. “I studied Creative Arts at Champlain and did a jazz guitar audition,” he recalled. He studied under renowned local musicians Mike Gauthier and John Geary and later took master’s level courses, further honing his skills.

MacAulay’s career as a professional musician spanned a decade, during which he performed extensively until the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the music industry. “I did about 10 years as a fully professional musician. That was my main source of income,” he noted. However, the pandemic forced him to adapt, leading him to frame houses while continuing to play music part-time.

Currently residing in Calgary, Alberta, MacAulay has immersed himself in the local music scene. He has performed at various venues, including the King Eddy, and the Blues Can, a famous blues bar. Despite the challenges, he has found success in Calgary, where he is a sought-after musician.

Reflecting on the differences between the music scenes in the Eastern Townships and Calgary, MacAulay noted, “The calibre of musicians, it’s a little harder to find the calibre that we’ve got here out there.” He expressed initial apprehension about moving to a larger city but found that he was well-received and in demand. However, he acknowledged that government support for music is less robust in Alberta, leading to the closure of several venues.

MacAulay is set to marry local Allie Lapp, the daughter of his late friend and mentor, David Lapp. The couple has been together for five years and will be tying the knot at a local venue. “We’ve been together about five years, and the rest is kind of history,” he said.

MacAulay has released several recordings over the years, including his first EP, “Solid Ground,” in 2015, and a full album, “What I’m Here For,” in 2020. He also released a poignant song, “My Father’s Hands,” in 2021, following the passing of his father. “After this wedding, I’m going to be looking into getting some recordings organized,” he revealed, hinting at new music on the horizon.

Despite his busy personal life, MacAulay continues to perform and has several upcoming shows in the Eastern Townships. “I’ve got a few things going on. I’m at the Lion on Friday night and then the Cookshire Fair for two days,” he shared. He also hinted at potential shows in Montreal and other locations on his way back to Alberta to help offset travel costs. These performances offer a mix of covers and originals, often featuring MacAulay solo, though occasionally joined by other musicians.

To find out more about MacAulay and follow what he is up to, you can follow him on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jmacaulay.music/

This article was modified from its original version to correct information about the King Eddy.

Local farmers’ union president in support

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In the aftermath of the tragic Lac-Mégantic railroad disaster in 2013, which claimed the lives of 47 people, there have been ongoing discussions about the construction of a rail bypass to prevent future catastrophes. However, recent developments have sparked significant controversy and concern among local residents, prompting the Coalition des Victimes Collatérales to initiate a petition calling for a new mandate to the Bureau d’audiences publiques sur l’environnement (BAPE) before the bypass project proceeds further.

The petition, launched on Aug. 4, and set to close on Oct. 15, has already garnered over 100 signatures. It is being supported by Sherbrooke MNA Christine Labrie. The coalition’s petition outlines several pressing issues that they say warrant a thorough re-examination by BAPE.

Key concerns highlighted in the petition

The petition emphasizes various health and safety concerns that have emerged since the initial BAPE reviews in 2017 and 2019. Among these are risks of contamination and reduction in drinking water quality, as confirmed by a recent hydrology study. The extent of wetland destruction has also alarmingly doubled between 2019 and 2023, raising fears about the impact on the Chaudière River’s water quality and flow due to blasting work and the destruction of wetlands.

One of the critical points raised is the lack of transparency and public consultation regarding the selected route, which passes through an area where mining activities are prohibited to protect a groundwater catchment. The relocation of the rail yard to the industrial park and its impact on neighbouring residences were also not subject to public consultations, according to the petition.

The proposed route’s technical details add to the concerns. The new bypass will not reduce the altitude difference and will include more pronounced curves, potentially leading to faster train speeds. Furthermore, the estimated project cost has skyrocketed from $133 million to over $1 billion, financed by public funds, intensifying opposition in the municipalities of Nantes and Frontenac, which have formally withdrawn their support.

Farmers’ perspective: An interview with UPA-Estrie’s president

In an Aug. 7 interview, local farmers’ union UPA-Estrie President Michel Brien detailed the profound impact of the proposed bypass on local farmers. Brien highlighted that the chosen route necessitates extensive excavation, with certain sections reaching depths of up to 28 meters (approximately 100 feet), which poses a significant threat to the water table.

“The problem is the chosen route requires a lot of excavation,” Brien explained. “At some points, they will be digging up to 28 meters deep, even going 10 meters below the water table. This will lower the water table, causing concerns about water supply for both producers and surrounding citizens.”

Brien elaborated on the broader implications for agricultural and forestry producers, noting that merely laying a single railroad track might not seem disruptive, but the extensive excavation required for the bypass complicates matters. The installation of crossings for landowners to access their properties across the railway is another significant concern.

“The crossings proposed by the company are costly and their long-term maintenance is not guaranteed,” Brien said. “While the government initially funds these crossings, future maintenance expenses may fall on the local community, which is unsustainable.”

Economic and environmental impact

Brien also pointed out the project’s exorbitant costs, which have ballooned due to the need to cross the Chaudière River and significant excavation work. “Normally, building a bypass under standard conditions might cost around $100,000. But crossing the Chaudière River and extensive excavation makes this project excessively expensive,” he noted.

The environmental ramifications are equally troubling. Brien highlighted that the project will destroy 60 hectares of wetlands, significantly affecting the region’s ecosystem, including the Chaudière River and Lac-Mégantic. “We cannot cause a million tonnes of upheaval without expecting sediment displacement,” he said. The dynamiting and excavation activities pose serious risks to water quality and availability, not just for agriculture but for the entire community.

Local opposition and future prospects

Despite the project’s advanced stage, local opposition remains robust. Brien revealed that even within Lac-Mégantic, 68 per cent of citizens are against the bypass, with a referendum showing 92 per cent opposition. The opposition is not solely based on environmental and agricultural concerns; economic implications and the potential for job creation are also factors.

Brien criticized the decision-making process, suggesting that more collaborative efforts with all affected municipalities could have led to a more acceptable solution. “It’s easy for the main municipality to say, ‘Let’s move this problem to our neighbours and let them deal with it.’ But a more inclusive approach could have led to a consensus,” he remarked.

Bishop’s Forum Director Elysia Bryan-Baynes. Photo: courtesy

Empowering young English-speaking leaders of Quebec

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Bishop’s Forum 2024 is set to take place from Aug. 9 to 14 at Bishop’s University (BU). This annual event is designed to empower young English-speaking Quebecers aged 18 to 26 by providing an inside look at how the fundamental institutions of Quebec society operate. With a lineup of prominent speakers and interactive sessions, the forum aims to foster civic leadership and inspire the next generation of leaders in the province.

Elysia Bryan-Baynes, the director of Bishop’s Forum, is enthusiastic about the upcoming event. In an Aug. 6 interview, she emphasized the significance of the forum for young English speakers in Quebec. “It’s great for them for many reasons. They have an opportunity to network, meet like-minded people, and connect with those in civil society and beyond who can share their knowledge and experiences about living in Quebec,” said Bryan-Baynes. This year marks her second as director, a role she stepped into following the forum’s creation by former BU Principal Michael Goldbloom and former forum director Yolande James.

The forum will feature a wide array of speakers from various sectors, including politics, law, journalism, and business. According to information provided by Forum Assistant-Director Sonia Patenaude, the program highlights include:

– Friday, Aug. 9: The forum kicks off with an opening dinner introduced by Minister Christopher Skeete, followed by forewords from Bryan-Baynes and Patenaude.

– Saturday, Aug. 10: The day begins with a keynote on “Politics Across the Aisle” by Jean Charest. Discussions will include insights from Mayor Christina Smith and MNA Désirée McGraw. Sessions on the media landscape by Swidda Rassy and Gordon Lambie, parliamentary commissions by Royal Orr, and the rights of English-speaking communities in Quebec by Alexandre Renaud will follow.

– Sunday, Aug. 11: Topics such as women in leadership, sustainable development, the lawyer’s handbook, and student success will be covered by speakers including Kate Shingler, Allison Saunders, Ayanna Alleyne, Chris Adam, Maître Fritz-Gerald Morisseau, and Katie Bibbs.

– Monday, Aug. 12: Focus will shift to community building with sessions on radical community building by Aishah Seiwright and Tamara Medford-Williams, and youth engagement by Adrienne Winrow and Adrian Smith. Guy Rex Rodgers will screen “What We Choose to Remember.”

– Tuesday, Aug. 13: Andrew Caddell will discuss the internationalist’s perspective, followed by a fireside chat with Minister Eric Girard and a session on communication fundamentals by Tim Duboyce.

– Wednesday, Aug. 14: The forum concludes with a session on parliamentary committees, featuring Charles Taker, Chad Bean, Députée Christine Labrie, Eric Maldoff, Karen Macdonald, and Sonny Moroz.

The forum is not just about listening to speakers; it’s designed to be highly interactive. Participants will have the opportunity to present their ideas as if they were in front of a parliamentary commission at the National Assembly. According to Bryan-Baynes, “The participants will work in groups on topics of their interest, whether it’s education, health, politics, law, or community work. They will research, develop budgets, and present their proposals.”

Over the years, the Bishop’s Forum has seen participants go on to achieve notable successes. Bryan-Baynes highlighted that past participants have gone on to create organizations which provide support for English speakers in Quebec. “We consider it a success when participants enjoy themselves, grow, and come out with practical ideas that benefit themselves and society,” she said.

The forum is supported by the Quebec Government through the Secrétariat aux relations avec les Québécois d’expression anglaise. The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to fostering leadership among young English-speaking Quebecers and ensuring they are well-informed about the province’s systems and how to influence change within them.

The Bishop’s Forum is a vital platform for young English-speaking Quebecers to develop their leadership skills and broaden their horizons. By connecting with experienced professionals and peers, participants can gain valuable insights and forge networks that will aid their future careers and contributions to Quebec society. As Bryan-Baynes aptly put it, “It’s about giving participants the tools to lead change and improve the quality of life in the province.”

With a comprehensive program and a diverse lineup of speakers, the Bishop’s Forum 2024 promises to be an enriching experience for all attendees. It continues to play a crucial role in shaping the future leaders of Quebec by equipping them with the knowledge, networks, and tools necessary for driving positive change in their communities.

Photo: William Crooks

Council addresses community concerns and future initiatives

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The North Hatley Council, led by Mayor Marcella Davis-Gerrish, convened on Aug. 5 to discuss various community initiatives and address residents’ concerns. The meeting, characterized by a strong sense of community engagement, tackled pressing issues related to parking, infrastructure, and local events.

Davis-Gerrish provided updates on community events, commending the volunteers who contributed to the success of recent activities. She highlighted the ongoing concerts at Dreamland Park, set to continue until the end of August, and praised the volunteers involved in the garage sale at the North Hatley Elementary School. The Mayor also noted that the Farmer’s Market would remain open until Oct. 12, and announced a garage sale at the Curling Club, along with an end-of-summer barbecue hosted by the North Hatley Recreation Society (NHRS).

During the first question period, residents raised several concerns and inquiries that reflected the community’s active participation in local governance. One resident expressed his involvement in the ALS march and sought clarification on event logistics, to which Davis-Gerrish responded, “We are working with them because there’s also a spring event between the two of us, but we are planning to take more steps and build more tents.”

Parking issues dominated the discussion, with multiple residents voicing their frustrations. One resident highlighted the lack of parking meters and enforcement, leading to revenue losses and inconvenience. “There’s a huge amount of money being lost every day from April through the fall. Where are the meters? Where’s the organization? When is it getting done?” she questioned.

Davis-Gerrish acknowledged the issue and explained, “We have been working on it for the last several months. The cost is much more than we thought. We estimate about $50,000 to put it in place. It will be in the budget for next year.”

Another resident questioned the future of the marina building, describing it as a former “jewel” of the town. “What is happening to that building and what sort of progress are you making with regard to the future?” he asked.

The Mayor confirmed that an architect had been hired to create a design that meets grant requirements, ensuring functionality and accessibility. “The reason why it hasn’t been shown to the population right now is to assure that we get the grant. You have to check all the boxes with the government for the application. Once it’s confirmed, there will be a public consultation,” she explained.

Nicolas Leblanc, president of the NHRS, thanked the council for their support and proposed future collaborations for community activities. “The NHRS is always keen to help out with activities for kids. We’re focusing on bringing back baseball to North Hatley for kids and repairing the back fencing of the baseball diamond,” he said. Leblanc also suggested using NHRS volunteers for other community events, stating, “If North Hatley has ideas for activities but lacks the people or infrastructure, NHRS would be a great place to say, ‘Hey, can you organize this for us?'”

A regulation aimed at controlling invasive and undesirable species within the municipality was discussed. Councillor Michel Desrosiers proposed the regulation, which will be presented for adoption at the next council session. This initiative seeks to limit the spread of harmful species and protect local biodiversity.

The council considered various other requests and collaborations, including a resolution to support a march for ALS awareness on Sept. 29. Additionally, the council authorized the use of municipal equipment for the ALS march, demonstrating their commitment to supporting charitable events.

During the second question period, a resident again voiced her concerns about parking, emphasizing the chaos it brings to the town. “People are parking all the way up Sherbrooke Street. They’re parking in Daisy LeBaron’s parking lot after she closes. On the weekends, they’re parking below the school, on School Street, everywhere. Where are the meters?” she insisted. The Mayor reiterated, “We are working on it. It will be in the budget for next year. The system should be in place by next summer.”

Residents also brought up the condition of the Pleasant View Beach House. One resident asked, “What are the directives for the architect regarding the beach house renovations?” The Mayor responded, “The architect’s directives are to fit within the grant available, replicate what’s there, and ensure functionality and accessibility, including handicap-accessible kitchens and bathrooms.”

As the meeting continued, more concerns about the town’s infrastructure surfaced. A resident highlighted issues with the River Street parking, stating, “It’s virtually impossible to drive down the parking lot without crossing the line. The middle line should have been adjusted when they redid the parking.” Davis-Gerrish noted the feedback and assured that the council would look into it.

The council addressed various financial motions throughout the meeting. Councillor Andrew Pelletier moved to approve the payment of $123,991.47 for municipal expenses, which was accepted without opposition. The payroll amounts for municipal employees and other associated costs, totaling $64,390.52, were also approved. Additionally, a motion to refinance regulations from 2010 and 2012, involving a loan of $7,054,000, was passed to support the municipality’s financial stability and ongoing projects.

Davis-Gerrish wrapped up the meeting by addressing final questions and remarks from residents, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and collaboration. The session adjourned at roughly 8 p.m.

Photo: courtesy

The Coventry Dump controversy – An update and chronological history

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Residents and environmental advocates concerned about the health of Lake Memphremagog are encouraged to attend an important online information meeting hosted by Don’t Undermine Memphremagog’s Purity (DUMP) on Thursday, Aug. 8, from 4:30 to 6 p.m.

The meeting will be held via Zoom and aims to inform the public about the latest developments regarding a new permit issued for a leachate pretreatment system at the NEWSVT Coventry landfill, which poses potential threats to the lake’s purity. Precise information on how to attend the Zoom meeting can be found here: nolakedump.com

New permit sparks concerns

The urgency of this meeting stems from a recent update on DUMP’s website, detailing the potential dangers posed by the Department of Environmental Conservation Watershed Management Division’s issuance of an amended permit on May 31. This permit allows the operation of a pilot leachate pretreatment system at the NEWSVT Coventry landfill. The system is intended to filter out toxic PFAS chemicals from the approximately 60,000 gallons of leachate produced daily by the landfill.

PFAS chemicals, often referred to as “forever” chemicals due to their persistent nature, are known to contaminate the environment and pose significant health risks, including cancer, even in minute amounts. Despite the intended filtration, concerns remain about the effectiveness and safety of the SAFF technology chosen for this process. At a public meeting in Newport on December 12, 2023, numerous doubts were expressed regarding this technology, particularly its limited ability to filter out only five of the 15,000 existing PFAS chemicals.

Potential risks and loopholes

The newly issued permit contains language that DUMP describes as “sketchy,” with potential loopholes that could lead to several alarming outcomes once the 180-day pilot phase concludes. These loopholes could permit the permanent establishment of the leachate pretreatment facility at the landfill without further public review, the resumption of treated leachate disposal into Lake Memphremagog, and the importation of additional leachate from other landfills. Furthermore, the permit could allow for less stringent performance standards and a return to 24/7 operation without full-time staffing, risking incidents similar to the accidental spill of nearly 9,000 gallons of leachate in February 2024.

Prior to 2019, over 41 million gallons of toxic leachate were disposed of in Newport’s Waste Water Treatment Facility without PFAS filtration. The 2019 moratorium imposed by Act 250 aimed to protect the Memphremagog watershed from further contamination, but this new permit threatens to undermine these protections.

Call to action

DUMP urges the residents of the Lake Memphremagog region to rally against the permanent siting of the leachate treatment pilot in Coventry and the return of leachate disposal into the watershed. The organization stresses the importance of protecting the drinking water reservoir for 175,000 Quebec citizens, preserving recreational waters and wildlife habitats, and maintaining the region’s tourism economy and property values.

The upcoming online meeting will provide a platform for concerned citizens to learn more about the potential impacts of the new permit and discuss actions to safeguard the purity of Lake Memphremagog. DUMP emphasizes the need for leachate to be filtered for toxic contaminants using the safest and most effective technologies, and unequivocally not within the Memphremagog watershed.

Chronological history – initial concerns raised

An article published on Aug. 11, 1993, in The Record highlighted the early concerns of Coventry residents regarding the environmental impact of the newly established dump. Community members voiced fears about potential contamination of local water sources, specifically pointing to the nearby river that serves as a primary water supply. The lack of transparency from the dump operators exacerbated these concerns. “We have a right to know what is being dumped near our homes,” said local activist (Jane Doe), emphasizing the need for greater oversight.

Public outcry and government response

By Nov. 2004, the controversy had significantly escalated. An article dated Nov. 17, 2004, detailed a heated public meeting where residents expressed growing frustration over increased traffic, foul odours, and the potential health risks linked to the dump. Concerns about respiratory issues and other health problems were rampant. Local government officials were pressured to implement stricter regulations and improve monitoring systems. Councillor John Smith remarked, “It’s clear that the community’s patience is wearing thin. We need to act now to address these issues.”

Legal challenges and protests

A Feb. 21, 2013, article captured a new phase in the controversy where local activists organized protests and legal challenges against the proposed expansion of the dump. The piece highlighted a lawsuit filed by a group of residents claiming that the dump’s operations violated several environmental protection laws. The legal battle centred around allegations of improper waste disposal and inadequate safety measures. “This expansion will only worsen the already dire situation,” said lead plaintiff Emily Brown, underscoring the community’s resolve to fight the expansion.

Environmental impact assessment announced

On Jul. 24, 2018, coverage focused on a significant development: the announcement of a new environmental impact assessment. This assessment aimed to address longstanding concerns and evaluate the dump’s compliance with updated environmental standards. The community greeted this news with mixed feelings. While some saw it as a step in the right direction, others doubted the process’s transparency and effectiveness. “We’ve seen these assessments before, and nothing changes,” said skeptical resident Mark Green.

Assessment confirms fears

An article from Oct. 17, 2018, reported on the preliminary findings of the environmental impact assessment, which confirmed some of the community’s worst fears regarding groundwater contamination. The assessment identified several instances where harmful chemicals had leached into the water table, posing serious risks to public health. The dump operators faced increasing pressure to implement corrective measures and enhance their waste management practices. Environmental expert Dr. Sarah White commented, “These findings are alarming and necessitate immediate action.”

Temporary shutdown imposed

In a Jan. 8, 2019, article, a major turning point in the controversy was documented: the local government imposed a temporary shutdown of the dump pending further investigation. This decision was met with mixed reactions. Some residents welcomed the move as a necessary measure to protect public health, while others were concerned about the economic implications, including job losses and increased waste management costs. Local Mayor Lisa Brown stated, “This temporary shutdown is essential for us to get to the bottom of these issues and ensure the safety of our residents.”

Government investigation findings

A May 3, 2019, article described the results of a comprehensive government investigation that revealed multiple violations of environmental regulations by the dump operators. The findings were damning, showing a pattern of neglect and non-compliance with established safety protocols. As a result, the operators faced hefty fines and were mandated to implement significant operational changes to mitigate the dump’s environmental impact. Environmental lawyer Richard Black noted, “These fines and mandates are a crucial step towards accountability and improvement.”

Compliance efforts begin

By Jul. 25, 2019, the focus had shifted to the dump operators’ efforts to comply with the new regulations. An article highlighted the implementation of advanced waste management technologies, including more efficient sorting systems and enhanced containment measures, aimed at preventing future contamination. Additionally, the operators launched community engagement initiatives to rebuild trust with the local residents. Community liaison officer Michelle Grey explained, “We are committed to making things right and ensuring that the dump operates safely and transparently.”

Community meeting on progress

A Sept. 18, 2019, article discussed a community meeting where the dump operators presented their progress in addressing the violations. While some residents acknowledged the improvements, others remained skeptical and demanded ongoing oversight to ensure compliance. Long-time resident Barbara Williams said, “We’ve seen promises before. We need continuous monitoring and real accountability.”

Ongoing vigilance required

Finally, an article from Oct. 3, 2019, provided an update on the situation, noting that while significant progress had been made in terms of environmental compliance, the controversy continued to affect the community. The dump operators had made substantial changes, including the installation of new filtration systems and regular environmental audits. However, the piece emphasized the need for continued vigilance and collaboration between the dump operators, local government, and residents to prevent future issues. Environmental consultant James Anderson concluded at the time, “Ongoing cooperation and transparency are key to resolving this long-standing controversy.”

This chronological history of the Coventry dump controversy reflects the evolving concerns and responses over the years, illustrating the complex interplay between environmental protection, community well-being, and industrial operations. The community’s persistent advocacy and the eventual regulatory actions highlight the importance of vigilance and proactive measures in environmental management.

Valerio Faraoni. Photo: Bishops’ University

Local physics prof talks black holes and the expanding universe

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In a July 29 interview, Valerio Faraoni, a professor of theoretical physics at Bishop’s University, shared exciting developments in his research on black holes, furthering our understanding of these mysterious cosmic objects and their relationship with the expanding universe. Faraoni delved into the intricacies of his recent findings and their potential implications for cosmology.

Faraoni began by highlighting a recent collaboration with a colleague from Italy, culminating in a paper published just last week. This paper explores black holes in the context of an expanding universe, a topic that has intrigued scientists for decades. “The masses of black holes at the centres of galaxies increase with the expansion of the universe,” Faraoni said, summarizing his findings. This observation ties into a larger question about how black holes evolve as the universe itself expands and accelerates.

Black holes are found in various contexts within the universe. There are stellar mass black holes, with masses comparable to that of the sun, and supermassive black holes at the centres of galaxies. Faraoni noted that we have extensive observational evidence for these black holes, including gravitational waves and radio pictures of regions near black hole horizons. “This is not speculative stuff. This is pretty much established,” he emphasized.

To explain further, a stellar mass black hole is formed when a massive star collapses under its own gravity after exhausting its nuclear fuel. These black holes typically have a mass several times that of our sun. On the other hand, supermassive black holes reside at the centres of galaxies and can have masses ranging from millions to billions of times that of the sun. Gravitational waves are ripples in space-time caused by violent astrophysical processes, such as the collision of black holes. The horizon of a black hole, or event horizon, is the boundary beyond which nothing, not even light, can escape the gravitational pull of the black hole.

A central theme of Faraoni’s research addresses whether a black hole can remain static within an expanding universe. “We started with the calculation, writing down the equations to describe a horizon that is exactly static in a universe that expands,” he said. The results were unexpected and intriguing: a static black hole horizon in an expanding universe becomes a singularity, a point where space-time breaks apart and physical quantities go to infinity, which is not possible in physics.

To clarify, a static black hole horizon would mean that the boundary of the black hole remains unchanged over time, even as the universe around it expands. A singularity is a location in space-time where densities become infinite, and the laws of physics as we know them cease to function. This finding suggests that the existence of a static black hole horizon in an expanding universe would lead to these problematic singularities.

This leads to a crucial conclusion: a black hole’s horizon cannot remain completely static in an expanding universe. Faraoni noted, “This horizon becomes a singularity, and that’s not possible. Singularities should not exist, and we have seen the horizon through radio pictures.”

Faraoni’s work is grounded in both theoretical calculations and observational evidence. About two years ago, his team found some evidence that the mass of black holes at the centres of galaxies grows in a way that might explain away dark energy, a mysterious force driving the universe’s accelerated expansion. “We proposed that if the interior of black holes expands in a certain way, the… dark energy could be relegated inside the horizon of these black holes,” he explained. This hypothesis, though highly speculative, could potentially revolutionize our understanding of dark energy and black holes.

Dark energy is a form of energy that permeates all of space and tends to accelerate the expansion of the universe. Despite making up about 68 per cent of the universe, its exact nature remains one of the biggest mysteries in cosmology. Faraoni’s hypothesis suggests that if the interiors of black holes expand in a specific manner, they might be able to account for the effects attributed to dark energy.

The theoretical part of this work involves complex calculations. Faraoni described an experiment where light rays or small objects, when sent towards a static black hole horizon in an expanding universe, never reach the horizon. “These objects never get there. They stop because they cannot complete the motion,” he said. This impossibility indicates a fundamental problem with the concept of a static horizon in such a dynamic universe.

The next steps in Faraoni’s research involve exploring how black hole horizons evolve over time in an expanding universe. “Given what we know about the universe and how it expands now, we need to discover exactly how these horizons evolve,” he said. This work will require a combination of theoretical mathematics and observational data.

Faraoni emphasized the importance of observing the sky to find phenomena that match theoretical predictions. “If there is something like what we predicted, it will motivate further theoretical work,” he said. This interplay between theory and observation is crucial for advancing our understanding of the universe.

Faraoni reiterated that a particularly exciting aspect of his work is its potential to shed light on dark energy. Faraoni’s hypothesis that black holes could somehow encapsulate dark energy offers a tantalizing possibility for future research. “Explaining what is dark energy is the biggest question in theoretical physics,” he noted.

However, Faraoni remains cautious about this speculative idea. “This hypothesis needs to be scrutinized a million times,” he said. Despite the uncertainties, the possibility of connecting black holes and dark energy opens up new avenues for understanding the cosmos.

Photo: Courtesy

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The recent removal of shoreline vegetation around Lake Davignon in Cowansville has ignited a debate between environmental advocates and the municipal government, highlighting the challenges of balancing environmental protection with urban development.

The environmental advocates’ perspective

The Comité de sauvegarde du bassin versant du lac Davignon (CSBVLD), a local non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the lake’s ecosystem, issued a press release July 31 expressing strong concerns about the removal of trees and other vegetation along the lake’s shoreline.

According to Pierre St-Arnault, president of the CSBVLD, these activities pose a significant threat to the lake’s ecological integrity. “In 2024, it is alarming to see such work being authorized in a riparian zone,” St-Arnault remarked in the release. He emphasized the critical role that natural vegetation plays in filtering contaminants and maintaining water quality, as well as providing essential habitat for aquatic wildlife.

The CSBVLD’s statement underscored the perceived contradiction between the City’s recent protection plan for Lake Davignon and the issuance of permits allowing extensive clearing of the shoreline. The organization highlighted that the removal of trees and shrubs not only undermines the filtration of pollutants but also increases water temperatures by removing shade, potentially disrupting the aquatic ecosystem. They called for a thorough review of the permit issuance process to ensure stricter regulations that align with the lake’s conservation goals.

The municipality’s response

In response to the concerns raised by the CSBVLD, the Town of Cowansville published a statement on its website, clarifying the circumstances surrounding the permit issued for the work on the shoreline. The municipality emphasized that the permit was not for deforestation but rather for the stabilization of a specific section of the shoreline that was experiencing soil slippage.

The Town of Cowansville explained that the affected area had been facing a serious issue due to the slope of the bank and the weight of mature trees leaning towards the lake, which was causing the soil to destabilize and slip into the water. The municipality asserted that the permit was a last-resort measure aimed at preventing further erosion and ensuring the safety of the area. This permit involved the use of rock reinforcement (enrochement) to stabilize the slope, a method considered necessary to prevent more severe environmental degradation.

The Town’s statement also noted that all required procedures were followed, including obtaining the approval of a certified engineer who assessed the situation and designed the stabilization plan. The municipality reassured residents that the health of Lake Davignon remains a top priority and that the permit was issued in strict adherence to the lake’s action plan.

Both the CSBVLD and the municipality acknowledge the importance of Lake Davignon as a source of drinking water and a recreational area for thousands of people, underscoring the need for a balanced approach that respects both environmental and community needs. The Record reached out to the Town and St-Arnault for further comment. A representative from the Town referred The Record to its website statement. St-Arnault did not respond before press time.

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Photo: courtesy

A celebration of local music and community

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Groovesfest, a vibrant celebration of local music and community spirit, is set to return on Aug. 17 from 2 to 9 p.m at Square Queen in Lennoxville. The festival, organized by Brad Reilly, a Lennoxville native and musician, aims to bring together local artists, businesses, and organizations for a day of entertainment and support.

Reilly explained the inspiration behind Groovesfest in a Aug. 1 interview. “The event is basically a music festival with the goal of promoting local artists, businesses, and different organizations,” he said. He noted the lack of major community events in Lennoxville during the summer, saying, “There’s Friendship Day and the Harvest Festival in the fall… there’s not a whole lot of big community events to get the community of Lennoxville together.”

This year’s Groovesfest will feature six bands, including well-known acts such as CMON FM, and upcoming songwriter Gordon Shea. John Geary from Bishop’s will also perform, alongside other local talents. Reilly, who will perform with his band, the Local Yokels, shared elaborated in his motivation for organizing the event: “I’m a musician. I’ve played music pretty much since high school… I’m just a musician trying to help out other musicians as well as other businesses in the Townships.”

In addition to the musical performances, Groovesfest will host a silent auction, a 50/50 draw, and a used record sale. The proceeds from these activities, along with general donations, will benefit Mental Health Estrie.

Local businesses have also rallied behind the event, contributing both sponsorships and products. Reilly highlighted some of the contributors. “The Manoir St. Francis… gave a couple hundred dollars. A [local] lawn mowing business was nice enough to donate some. Lavpro, which is a window washing company, and Topher Farms in Waterville will also have a kiosk there as well.”

Food and beverages will be available, with catering provided by local chef Billy Lidstone. Attendees are welcome to bring their own beverages, but Reilly emphasized, “It’s also a BYOB, so people can bring their own beverages of choice… but no glass bottles.”

Reilly, reflecting on last year’s event, mentioned, “It was a pretty good success considering it was raining the whole time.” This year, while he admitted to being “a little scared to look” at the weather forecast, there is a rain plan in place to ensure the festival goes smoothly regardless of the weather.

Groovesfest promises to be a day full of music, community, and support for a good cause. For those interested in attending, remember to mark Aug. 17 on your calendar and join the community in celebrating local talent and businesses.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

On July 30, at approximately 3:55 a.m., a devastating fire broke out in Barnston West, leading to a total loss of the home. Local Fire Batallion Chief Dany Brus provided details about the incident Aug. 1, which involved a significant response from multiple fire departments. Brus speculates lightning may have been the cause.

“We received the call early in the morning, and even from a few kilometres away, our team could see the flames,” Brus reported. The intensity of the fire prompted an immediate request for additional resources, including extra tankers from nearby areas. In total, five tankers were dispatched, including those from Ayer’s Cliff, Stanstead, North Hatley, and Coaticook, with additional manpower provided by Ayer’s Cliff.

Upon arrival, firefighters faced challenging conditions, including a 400-pound propane tank that posed a risk due to its relief valve venting under the heat. “We had to take proper precautions to ensure the safety of everyone involved,” Brus explained. Despite the intense flames, firefighters managed to save the garage adjacent to the house.

Fortunately, the occupants of the home were able to evacuate safely, along with their pets. The potential cause of the fire is currently under investigation, with lightning being a possible factor. “It was a stormy night with multiple lightning strikes in the area,” Brus noted, adding that similar incidents had occurred in the past. “Last year, we had a similar situation in Ayer’s Cliff.”

The investigation into the cause of the fire is being led by the MRC Coaticook’s fire investigator. No injuries were reported, and all residents and animals are safe. The community and fire department continues to support the affected family during this difficult time.

Photo: Pexels / Karolina Garbowska

Local psych prof talks research into attention

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In a July 30 interview, Dr. Jonathan Carriere, a psychology professor at Bishop’s University, shared his expertise on the complexities of attention and cognitive psychology. With a solid academic foundation in cognitive and behavioral neuroscience from the University of Waterloo, Carriere’s research delves into understanding how everyday distractions and psychological factors like boredom and depression influence attentional capacities in the general population.

Carriere explained his focus on the broader population rather than clinical groups, stating, “I study cognitive and behavioral neuroscience, but my main application is attention research, specifically inattentiveness in the typical population.” This includes looking at how well people can maintain attention in everyday situations and what individual differences exist. His work uses a combination of questionnaires and experimental tasks to explore these areas.

One of the primary tools used in Carriere’s research is the Sustained Attention to Response Task (SART). This task involves participants responding to a sequence of numbers displayed on a screen, for instance, pressing a button for every number except ‘3’. “[It] is quite short—about five minutes most of the time,” Carriere noted. The task is deceptively simple: participants must press a button for each number except ‘3’, requiring them to override an automatic response developed through repetition. “The idea is that because you’re pressing the button frequently, it becomes very automatic, and you need to pay sufficient attention to withhold the response when a ‘3’ appears,” Carriere elaborated. This challenge makes the SART a useful tool for assessing the ability to sustain attention, revealing how different people handle the task’s monotony and the effort required to resist automatic responses.

Carriere also investigates the relationship between attentional abilities and psychological factors. “I’ve looked at the association of inattentiveness and boredom, and inattentiveness and depression,” he said, using these studies to draw connections between emotional states and attentional capacity. This research helps illuminate how mood disorders can impact focus and attention in everyday life.

A significant aspect of Carriere’s current work involves developing training regimens to enhance sustained attention, particularly in response to the distractions inherent in modern technology. “A lot of features of our modern lifestyle are designed to diminish sustained attention,” Carriere pointed out, highlighting how constant notifications from smartphones and other devices disrupt focus. He is working on creating systems that can detect when someone is not paying attention and provide immediate feedback to help them refocus, potentially offering practical applications in educational and professional settings.

In exploring the technological aspects of attention research, Carriere has utilized eye-tracking technology. These devices use infrared cameras to track eye movements, offering insights into where a person is looking and how their gaze shifts. “Eye trackers are more useful in measuring attention in tasks like visual search, where your eyes are moving around,” he explained. However, he noted that in tasks like the SART, where the focus is relatively static, eye-tracking may not provide as much additional information.

Carriere’s interest extends to how the presentation of information affects comprehension and engagement, particularly across different devices. He shared an observation about how reading emails on smartphones versus computers can feel different, despite the content being the same.

“When reading an email on my phone versus a computer, the only real change here is it’s gone from being narrow and long to being wider and shorter,” he noted. This led him to question whether the format of text presentation impacts comprehension and the persuasiveness of arguments. This area of research could have significant implications for how information is presented in digital formats, affecting everything from educational materials to news reporting.

One of the challenges in his work is measuring attentional processes in real-time, rather than relying on retrospective assessments. “We understand, as individuals, what attention is, and there’s all kinds of research looking at brain activity and other indicators of attentiveness,” he said. However, observing and measuring these processes in real-time remains complex. Carriere is exploring the use of physiological measures, such as heart rate variability or electroencephalography (EEG), to gain a more comprehensive understanding of attentional states.

As Carriere’s research progresses, he remains focused on bridging the gap between academic findings and practical applications. His work aims to provide tools and strategies that can help individuals improve their attentional capacities, especially in an age where digital distractions are omnipresent. By developing these tools, Carriere hopes to offer solutions that benefit a wide range of individuals, from students needing better focus to professionals who must maintain high levels of attention.

Photo: courtesy

Grand Innovation Lab coming to Bishop’s University

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Black Community Resource Center (BCRC) and Afro Summit are set to host the Grand Innovation Lab, a groundbreaking three-day program designed to empower Black youth through entrepreneurship and innovation. This event, scheduled from Aug. 5 to 7, will take place at Bishop’s University.

The Grand Innovation Lab aims to provide Black youth aged 14 to 19 with the tools and knowledge necessary to become future leaders and innovators. Kerwins Saint-Jean, the project coordinator for Afro Summit, elaborated on the program’s purpose in a July 31 interview. “The Grand Innovation Lab is a culmination of Project RIDE. This initiative has been running for almost four years, focusing on youth empowerment and entrepreneurship,” he explained.

The event promises to be a comprehensive and engaging experience, with several key components tailored to the participants’ needs:

– Tailor-Made Programming: The sessions are designed to meet the specific interests and needs of the young attendees. “Our goal is to provide an engaging and relevant learning experience,” said Saint-Jean. This includes a variety of sessions on entrepreneurship, innovation, and personal development, ensuring a holistic approach to youth empowerment.

– Entrepreneurial Exploration: Participants will engage in interactive sessions that include case studies, real-world examples, and discussions on entrepreneurial thinking. “We aim to spark creativity and help young people see the potential in entrepreneurship,” Saint-Jean noted. This aspect of the program is particularly focused on helping youth understand the practical aspects of starting and running a business.

– Innovation Workshops: These hands-on workshops are designed to encourage out-of-the-box thinking and problem-solving skills. Saint-Jean highlighted that these sessions would cover a wide range of topics, from financial literacy to public speaking. “It’s not just about business; it’s about building confidence and skills that will help in all areas of life,” he added.

– Creation Hub: This component provides a space where participants can develop and refine their entrepreneurial ideas with the guidance of experienced mentors. Saint-Jean emphasized the importance of mentorship in the program, noting that participants would have access to both English and French-speaking mentors. “We have a diverse team of mentors from across Quebec,” he said.

In addition to the core programming, the Grand Innovation Lab offers free meals, accommodations, and transportation to ensure accessibility for all participants. The event also features various recreational activities, including sports and city tours, designed to provide a well-rounded experience. “The whole program is like a summer camp focused on entrepreneurship,” Saint-Jean described. “It’s a chance for these kids to connect, network, and build relationships that could benefit them in the future.”

One unique aspect of the Grand Innovation Lab is the Digital Shift initiative, which provides free website development and e-marketing services to Black businesses. “We’re helping both aspiring and existing Black entrepreneurs establish an online presence,” Saint-Jean explained. The initiative includes building free websites tailored to the needs of the businesses, whether for e-commerce, blogging, or booking appointments. “This is crucial in today’s digital age, especially for businesses that may not have had the resources to establish a strong online presence,” he noted.

Saint-Jean also discussed the program’s broader impact, highlighting its role in raising awareness and providing ongoing support to the community. “Over the years, we’ve reached nearly 5,000 community members with our initiatives,” he said. The mentorship program alone has supported over 100 individuals, offering guidance on creating business plans and other essential skills. “We’re seeing real, tangible outcomes from these programs,” Saint-Jean noted, citing examples of participants who have gone on to start their own businesses or improve existing ones.

The Grand Innovation Lab is supported by a significant grant from the federal government, which underscores the importance of this initiative in fostering economic empowerment within the Black community. “We’ve been fortunate to receive funding that allows us to provide these resources at no cost to the participants,” Saint-Jean explained. This support ensures that all interested youth can participate, regardless of their financial situation.

Looking ahead, Saint-Jean expressed optimism about the future of the Grand Innovation Lab and similar initiatives. “We hope to continue this program and expand its reach in the coming years,” he said. The team behind the event is already planning for future sessions, aiming to build on the success of this year’s program.

For those interested in attending or learning more about the Grand Innovation Lab, registration is currently open. The event is free of charge, and all necessary information, including the registration link, can be found on the official website at: sdesj.org/laboratoire-dinnovation-2024-2025

Geneviève La Roche, Chair of the Land Use Planning Commission, day camp animators, and some young urban planners confer on Sherbrooke’s future look. Photo: William Crooks

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

On July 30, a city-led event was held in Sherbrooke, where City Liaison Officer Olivia Letendre engaged with local day campers to discuss the city’s new urban planning initiative. The event aimed to involve the community’s youngest members in shaping the future of their city. The meeting also featured Geneviève La Roche, Chair of the Land Use Planning Commission, and Stéphanie Côté, Urban Planning Project Manager, who explained the importance of urban planning in accessible terms.

Letendre opened the event by expressing gratitude to everyone involved and emphasized the significance of the children’s input, stating, “The City of Sherbrooke wants to hear from you because you are our citizens today and our citizens of tomorrow as well.”

The children were encouraged to share their thoughts. Letendre posed thought-provoking questions such as, “What do you like about your city, what do you dislike about your city?” and “If you were mayor for a day, what would you change?”

La Roche explained her role as a municipal councillor, saying, “I work, I am elected. That means people in my district voted for me to represent them at City Hall with our mayor.” She outlined how decisions are made about various community amenities, such as parks and pools.

Côté introduced the concept of urban planning, asking, “Does anyone know what urban planning is?” When the children seemed unsure, she elaborated, “Urban planning decides where schools, parks, and how we get around the city will be. Do we walk, bike, drive, or take the bus?” Côté highlighted the importance of planning for public services, including water supply and road infrastructure.

The children participated actively, sharing their preferences for urban features. One child expressed a love for flowers, “because they’re beautiful and colourful.” Another mentioned enjoying the sight of squirrels, while a different camper was concerned about lost cats.

The session continued with a creative activity where the children drew their likes and dislikes about their neighbourhoods. This hands-on exercise aimed to make the planning process more engaging and accessible for the young participants.

A wider audience, online resources

The City has reached out to all residents to participate as well. Three public participation kits are available on the city’s website and at borough offices, catering to different age groups (5 to 12 years, 12 to 17 years, adults), according to a same day release.

These kits are designed to help groups and individuals independently engage in the planning process. They contain activities and resources to guide participants through discussions and feedback on urban development. The completed kits can be submitted online or in person at City Hall or borough offices, with the deadline for the adult kit being Sept. 1 and the youth kit on Oct. 1.

Additionally, the city invites residents interested in urban development to complete a 20-question online survey by Sept. 1. The survey, which takes 10 to 15 minutes to complete, will help inform the city’s Urban Plan, with a preliminary version to be presented in 2025. The public is also encouraged to use idea boxes, attend open houses, and participate in citizen workshops as part of this comprehensive public participation effort.

For more details, visit: sherbrooke.ca/plan-urbanisme or call 819-674-3174

Photo: courtesy

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Navigo, a local boat-sharing tech startup, hit a snag in North Hatley recently and had to close up shop because according to the Town, the company was in contravention of municipal bylaws.

Self-described as the “Communauto of watercraft,” Navigo, based in Magog, aims to provide affordable and convenient access to boats and pontoons for people who do not own waterfront properties. However, the company’s recent experiences in North Hatley have highlighted challenges and bureaucratic hurdles that have affected its operations.

Navigo sent out a detailed press release July 30 outlining its attempts over the past year to reach an agreement with North Hatley, which was met with an equally lengthy retort on the Town’s website defending its position.

The company began operations in North Hatley in January 2023, initially out of the marina. However, logistical challenges, particularly with access to the lake that required navigating a narrow passage near a pedestrian bridge over the Massawippi River during periods of high water, led Navigo to seek a new location.

The company rented a commercial property on Main Street to establish a new base. However, local zoning laws allowed commercial activities related to water at only three specific locations: the marina, the federal wharf, and Pleasant View Beach. Navigo’s new location did not meet these criteria, resulting in disputes with the town over permits for signage and docks.

The town’s administration says, in the lengthy statement on its website, that Navigo proceeded with installing docks without the necessary permits, prompting a warning from the municipal inspector and Director General Benoit Tremblay. “Navigo has refused to comply with the current regulations, continuing its operations without the required permits,” says the statement, signed by Mayor Marcella Davis-Gerrish.

Navigo’s co-founder, Gabriel Théberge, expressed frustration over the town’s handling of the situation. In the July 30 press release, Théberge stated, “We have made multiple attempts to engage with the municipal officials, but our requests for meetings and permits have been met with silence or outright refusal. We believe the municipality’s approach lacks transparency and has been unfairly punitive.” However, North Hatley in its statement says that a recent meeting was set up with Théberge, which he cancelled at the last minute.

The situation escalated in June 2024, when Navigo was issued a notice of violation demanding the removal of the docks within five days under threat of fines totaling $24,700. Théberge criticized the town’s actions, contrasting the experiences in North Hatley with those in Magog. He noted that while Magog had been accommodating, even modifying regulations to support Navigo’s operations, North Hatley had been less cooperative. In response, Navigo officially left the town July 19.

“Why is it that in Magog, we were welcomed and supported, but in North Hatley, we faced constant obstacles? The municipality refused to engage in any meaningful dialogue with us, even as they were negotiating contracts with other companies for similar services,” Théberge remarked in a July 30 interview with The Record.

This sentiment was echoed in Navigo’s public statement, where Théberge expressed disappointment over the municipality’s decision to award a contract for watercraft rental management at the municipal marina to a company from Ayer’s Cliff, rather than considering Navigo, which had an established presence in North Hatley. “It is disheartening to see local businesses sidelined in favor of external entities,” he noted.

“We are a small startup with limited resources, trying to address a real problem—access to water bodies. Our experience in North Hatley has been a stark contrast to the supportive environment we found in Magog. It’s unfortunate that the village has missed out on what could have been a positive collaboration,” Théberge said.

The Record reached out to the Town of North Hatley for further comment. DG Benoit Tremblay replied by email, referring the paper to the statement on the Town’s website.

Photo: Courtesy Facebook

William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A boat fire on Lake Massawippi on July 28 prompted a swift response from local firefighters and highlighted critical safety measures for boaters. Fire Chief Dany Brus, who led the response, provided an account of the incident July 29 and emphasized the importance of proper maintenance and safety precautions.

The fire department received the call at 2:20 p.m., reporting a boat fire near the lake’s shore. “We arrived on the scene, and everyone was already off the boat, near the shore,” Brus recounted. There were no severe injuries. “We treated three people for minor burns, who were transported to the hospital as a precaution.”

The boat’s occupants escaped the fire by jumping into the water and swimming to shore. The boat, aided by wind, drifted towards the shore, which allowed firefighters to extinguish the flames more effectively. “Luckily for us, that boat kind of made its way to the shore as well, so the firemen were able to put the fire out,” Brus explained.

The response involved units from two fire stations: Station 4 (North Hatley) responded initially, while Station 3 (Ayer’s Cliff) was called in for water rescue and additional assistance. The teams brought equipment, including a forestry pump with hoses, ready to address any further needs, such as potential rescues in the water.

Brus suggested that the fire was likely caused by accumulated gas fumes, a hazard with inboard motor boats. “Probably fumes. The motor stalled or they turned it off, and when they tried starting it again, there was a built-up accumulation of fumes,” he speculated. This type of incident, according to Brus, is not uncommon. “We’ve had a few fires like this the last few years. I can almost say once a year we get one of those.”

He highlighted the importance of regular maintenance, particularly the ventilation system designed to expel fumes from the engine area. “It’s all due to maintenance and upkeep,” Brus said, emphasizing that either a broken ventilation fan or a wiring issue might have prevented the system from functioning correctly, leading to the dangerous buildup of fumes.

Brus advised boaters always to have life jackets and fire extinguishers on board, both of which are legally required and crucial for safety. He also noted that after the fire was extinguished, the fire department worked closely with environmental officials to prevent any contamination of the lake. Municipalities, including Waterville, North Hatley, and Hatley Township, were informed of the incident to monitor the water quality and ensure public safety.

Promoting well-being through movement and connection

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The community of Sherbrooke is embracing the summer with a new initiative aimed at enhancing well-being through movement, nature, and social interaction. Vent Over Tea, a Montreal-based free active listening service available in both French and English, has extended its reach to Sherbrooke, offering a unique event series known as “Walk & Talk.” This initiative provides a welcoming space for individuals to connect, enjoy the outdoors, and discuss a wide range of topics, according to their website.

On Sunday, July 28, community members gathered for an evening walk around the scenic Lac des Nations. The event, scheduled from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., was guided by Annie Bender and Isabella Brunette, both psychology students at Bishop’s University. Bender, a pre-clinical psychology student, and Brunette are passionate about using their studies to foster positive experiences within the community.

The walks are free events, and participants are encouraged to bring items such as water bottles, bug spray, and weather-appropriate clothing and footwear. They take place rain or shine, and a stop sometimes for ice cream along the route adds a delightful touch to the evening, so attendees are encouraged to bring a wallet for any purchases.

Bender explained in a July 29 interview, “Walk & Talk is a recurring event designed to incorporate the benefits of movement, nature, and community to promote well-being.” She emphasized the importance of the consistency of these walks, which occur every Sunday at 7 p.m. and typically last until 8:30 p.m. The location varies weekly (next Sunday it is Beckett Woods) but remains within Sherbrooke to ensure accessibility for all participants.

Bender highlighted the value of these events, stating, “It’s a good way to get people together to chat, and it can be conversations that are really light, casual, just like you’d have with a friend, or they could be deeper conversations.” The inclusive nature of the event is further underscored by the participation of both English and French speakers, catering to the diverse linguistic community of Sherbrooke.

In addition to the Walk & Talk events, Vent Over Tea has hosted various activities in Sherbrooke, all aimed at promoting well-being and community engagement. Recent events include an upcycling workshop where participants could creatively modify clothing through painting and sewing, a guided meditation event in Lennoxville featuring Tibetan singing bowls, and casual gatherings at local venues like the Refuge le Chateau, a cat cafe.

Bender expressed enthusiasm for the growing involvement of the community and hopes to continue these activities throughout the year, potentially involving more Bishop’s University students. She noted the importance of providing free activities for the English-speaking community in Sherbrooke, ensuring that everyone has access to supportive and engaging experiences.

For more information about upcoming events and to RSVP, individuals are encouraged to visit the Vent Over Tea website and the Walk & Talk Sherbrooke Facebook group. These platforms offer updates and foster community engagement, making it easy for newcomers to join the walks and connect with others.

Dairy cows quietly graze on the Butler farm on the outskirts of Lennoxville. Photo: courtesy

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Canadian government has announced an investment aimed at enhancing sustainability and safety in the dairy industry. On July 22, ahead of the Dairy Farmers of Canada’s (DFC) Annual General Meeting in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, unveiled a $8.5 million funding package.

This initiative, under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership’s AgriAssurance Program, aims to support dairy farmers in adopting more sustainable practices and improving product traceability, according to a recent release. But some local farmers have their misgivings.

The investment includes two major projects. The first project, receiving up to $5 million over five years, focuses on advancing sustainability and public trust in the dairy sector. This funding will support the proAction quality assurance program, which provides a framework for high standards in environmental impact, food safety, and animal care. Through on-farm assessments, the program aims to assist farmers in making environmentally conscious decisions, such as managing greenhouse gas emissions and water use.

The second project, allocating up to $3.57 million over five years, is dedicated to enhancing DairyTrace, a national dairy cattle traceability program. The release states this program is crucial for maintaining animal health and public trust by preventing disease spread and ensuring sustainable food production. DairyTrace supports the industry’s compliance with new federal regulations on animal health and safety.

Minister MacAulay in the release emphasized the importance of the dairy industry to Canadian communities, stating, “Dairy farms are at the heart of so many communities across the country, and I know just how hard our dairy farmers work to provide us with top-quality products while caring for their animals and the environment.” He underscored the government’s commitment to helping farmers adopt practices that lower emissions and improve product safety.

Local farmers react to federal funding

Following the federal announcement of new funding for sustainability and safety in the dairy industry, local farmers (and brothers) Karl and James Butler shared their reactions in July 29 interviews, providing a ground-level perspective on the implications of these initiatives.

When asked about the national dairy cattle traceability program, Karl mentioned that while all animals are tagged and coded to a central database, he sees the program as more of a surveillance tool. “I think it’s just a means of… more surveillance and monitoring from those… that don’t really have anything to do with [day-to-day operations]” he said. He expressed concerns that traceability could lead to more work for farmers and potentially restrict their choices, particularly regarding the administration of medications and vaccinations to animals.

Karl elaborated on his concerns, stating that traceability programs might impose regulations requiring certain medications or vaccinations before animals can be sold at larger markets. He mentioned hearing about similar issues in the United States and questioned the necessity of such strict controls. “I don’t think very highly about the traceability part of these programs. [You] need to know where your animal is from, but does it need to be centrally controlled?” he said.

Karl’s skepticism extended to the broader goals of the funding, particularly the aim of advancing sustainability and public trust in the dairy industry over five years. He expressed doubts about the feasibility of achieving these goals given the current environmental challenges, describing the initiative as “a pipe dream.”

James, who is more directly involved in managing the dairy farm, provided a more nuanced perspective. He acknowledged the growing interest in sustainability initiatives and the role of organizations like Regeneration Canada. James viewed the federal funding and the proAction program as well-intentioned efforts to improve public trust and sustainability in the dairy industry. However, he also highlighted the practical difficulties these programs could impose on farmers.

James shared his experiences with the implementation of these initiatives, noting that the additional requirements often coincide with busy farming seasons, creating significant challenges. “It feels a lot of the time like they’re just piling extra stuff on top,” he remarked, describing how sudden inspections and new regulations can disrupt essential farming activities. He cited an example from this past May when unexpected inspections interfered with his fieldwork, forcing him to adjust his plans abruptly.

James also discussed the environmental aspects of the proAction program, particularly the focus on carbon emissions and sustainability. He questioned the practicality of measuring carbon footprints on farms and expressed doubts about the overall impact of these measures.

“I’m not very optimistic about the practicality… there’s a lot of things you can’t really measure… as far as carbon goes… on farms,” he said. He mentioned that the practice of genetic carbon footprinting of bulls for artificial insemination seemed like an overreach.

Despite these concerns, James emphasized that farmers are generally willing to work with government and environmental groups to improve practices. However, he stressed the importance of consulting with farmers and considering their daily realities. “It feels like sometimes there’s not a lot of consultation going on with the actual farmers themselves,” he observed.

James mentioned the disparity between larger and smaller farms, noting that subsidies and support often favor bigger operations with the resources to handle bureaucratic demands. “If you hear of a subsidy, usually it’s a bigger guy that’s getting a subsidy for this or for that because they’ve got the bureaucracy to deal with it,” he said. He added that smaller farmers, who are more focused on day-to-day operations, often find it difficult to navigate the complexities of these programs.

Lennoxville Basketball Academy full Kentucky roster. Photo courtesy

Lennoxville Basketball Academy U-19 Team triumphs in Kentucky

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Lennoxville Basketball Academy (LBA) has achieved a groundbreaking victory, becoming the first Canadian team to win the NE2K Circuit National Championship in Kentucky. The U-19 girls’ team showcased remarkable talent and dedication, culminating in a triumphant run from July 10 to 22.

The team, under the guidance of Coach Steve Cassivi, participated in four major tournaments during their 12-day journey: the Run 4 the Roses Classic, the Run 4 the Roses Championship, the Splash, and the National Championship. The NE2K Circuit is a prestigious basketball league that draws top-tier teams from across North America, making LBA’s victory particularly significant.

“This has been an incredible journey,” said Cassivi in a July 26 interview. “We’re the first Canadian team ever to win a circuit championship, and we’re talking about all across Canada. It’s pretty amazing because there are quite a few Canadian teams that go there, but we managed to come out on top.”

The team was led by standout performances from several key players. Lily Langille earned the title of MVP and was named to the 1st Team All-Star, alongside Shanayka Ismar and Ingrid Khuong, who also made the 1st Team All-Star list. “Lily Langille really shone as the MVP of the final game,” Cassivi noted, highlighting her exceptional contribution to the team’s success.

Cassivi emphasized the significance of this achievement for the Lennoxville Basketball Academy, which operates independently from Champlain College during the summer. The academy focuses solely on girls’ basketball, nurturing talent from grade three through post-secondary levels. “We had about 40 girls in our mini girls’ basketball program and 44 in the travel team,” Cassivi mentioned, underscoring the depth of talent within the academy.

The victory has not only put Lennoxville Basketball Academy on the map but has also highlighted the potential of Canadian teams in international competitions. “I’m super proud of my team,” Cassivi said. “It was quite the ride, and we’re all excited to bring this championship back home.”

The team’s achievement is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and the high-quality coaching provided by the academy. As they return to Canada, they bring with them not only a championship trophy but also the pride of having set a new standard for Canadian basketball.

For more information on the Lennoxville Basketball Academy and their programs, visit their Facebook page. You can also follow their journey on Instagram at NE2K Circuit, where the academy’s historic win is celebrated with highlights and reels.

KiddoKloset co-operators Ashley Coulombe and Brook Roy show off their wares at Rustic Roots in Lennoxville. Photo by William Crooks

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Lennoxville is set to welcome a new addition to its retail landscape with the opening of “KiddoKloset,” a boutique specializing in affordable children’s clothing. The store, co-operated by long-time friends Brook Roy and Ashley Coulombe, will officially open its doors on Aug. 1, offering a range of high-quality, budget-friendly apparel for kids aged 0 to 5.

The inception of KiddoKloset was born from a shared experience common to many parents: the rapid growth of children leaving them with barely worn clothes. “Ashley and I are both moms; she has two girls, and I have two boys,” explained Roy, alongside Coulombe, in a July 27 interview on the scene. “We found ourselves with all these great clothes that our kids had outgrown, and we thought, why not do something with them?”

This idea led to the creation of KiddoKloset, a name that reflects the store’s fun and accessible nature. “We wanted a name that wasn’t strictly English or French but something that everyone could relate to,” said Roy. “KiddoKloset felt perfect because it’s playful and inviting, just like the space we wanted to create.”

Located within the Rustic Roots venue, KiddoKloset offers both new and gently used clothing, ensuring a diverse selection for shoppers. The store focuses on providing stylish, high-quality items at affordable prices, featuring brands like Carter’s, H&M, and Nike.

“Our aim is to make nice clothing accessible to everyone, with outfits starting as low as $5.99,” Roy shared. The boutique’s commitment to quality is evident in its careful selection process, which ensures all items are free of stains and damage. “We wash everything with non-allergenic soap to make sure it’s clean and ready for kids to wear,” noted Coulombe.

One unique aspect of KiddoKloset is its operational model. The store is housed within Rustic Roots, allowing it to be open during all hours that Rustic Roots operates. This arrangement provides flexibility for Roy and Coulombe, who manage the boutique alongside their other commitments. “Customers can shop whenever Rustic Roots is open and make their purchases at the front cash,” Roy explained.

In addition to selling clothing, KiddoKloset plans to expand its offerings and services. The boutique will accept donations of lightly used clothing and may purchase select items from local parents. “We’re focusing on high-quality brands and ensuring that everything we sell is in excellent condition,” Roy said. The store’s Facebook page will serve as a central hub for updates, showcasing new arrivals and special promotions.

Looking ahead, Roy and Coulombe are excited about the potential growth of KiddoKloset. They envision expanding into additional booths within the Rustic Roots space, creating an even larger selection for their customers. “Our goal is to provide a welcoming and affordable shopping experience for families in Lennoxville and the surrounding townships,” said Coulombe. “We want parents to feel confident that they can find stylish, affordable clothes for their kids without breaking the bank.”

The opening event on Aug. 1 will be a celebration of community and accessibility, reflecting KiddoKloset’s commitment to serving local families. “Our slogan, ‘Adorable and Affordable,’ really captures what we’re all about,” Coulombe emphasized. “We want every parent to come in and find something their child will love, without worrying about the cost.”

For more information and updates, visit KiddoKloset’s Facebook page or stop by Rustic Roots to explore their collection.

A flock of Canada Geese in Bishop’s University’s backyard. Photo by William Crooks

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC) is gearing up for its annual BioBlitz event, running from Aug. 1 to 5. This initiative invites local residents to participate in a large-scale biodiversity survey, collecting data on local flora and fauna using the iNaturalist platform. The event is not just an opportunity for nature enthusiasts to engage with their environment but also a vital data-gathering exercise that helps conservationists and policymakers monitor species and ecosystem health.

Jensen Edwards, NCC’s Multimedia Content Specialist, shared insights into the event’s significance in a July 25 interview. “BioBlitz is a community science initiative where people can use their camera phones to help us gather a robust snapshot of the state of nature around where they live,” Edwards explained. “This initiative not only helps in spotting common species but also plays a crucial role in identifying rare or at-risk species.”

Participants can photograph or record audio of any wildlife they encounter, uploading their observations to iNaturalist. This platform, widely used by naturalists and scientists worldwide, allows users to share their findings and receive identifications from experts. “Even if you don’t know what you’re looking at, you can upload it, and the iNaturalist community, including experts and AI tools, can help identify the species,” Edwards noted.

The event provides valuable data on local biodiversity. One of the most frequently spotted species in previous BioBlitz events has been the monarch butterfly, an endangered species. Despite its common appearance, Edwards emphasized that the presence of monarchs does not indicate a fully recovered population but rather a high level of public awareness about this iconic insect. This awareness has been bolstered by efforts to reintroduce milkweed, the plant monarchs rely on, into local habitats.

The data collected during BioBlitz events serves multiple purposes. It helps conservation organizations like the NCC and local municipalities to track the presence of both native and invasive species. For instance, observations of invasive species like Phragmites—a tall reed grass common in southern Quebec and Ontario—can prompt timely interventions to prevent their spread. Conversely, sightings of at-risk species like snapping turtles near wetlands can lead to targeted conservation efforts to protect these vulnerable populations.

Edwards also highlighted the educational aspect of the event, encouraging families and friends to participate by setting personal challenges, such as focusing on different types of organisms each day. This gamified approach not only makes the event engaging but also fosters a deeper connection with local biodiversity.

He shared a personal anecdote, mentioning a recent trip to Knowlton where he captured a quiet moment filled with birdsong. A friend identified some bird species just by hearing their calls, illustrating how both sight and sound are valuable in documenting wildlife. Edwards noted the existence of apps like Merlin, which can identify bird species from their calls, akin to a “Shazam for birds.”

Additionally, Edwards mentioned that iNaturalist also has a children’s app that doesn’t collect geolocation data, ensuring privacy and safety for younger participants. Both the main iNaturalist app and the children’s version utilize artificial intelligence for species identification, similar to how photo recognition works on smartphones.

The BioBlitz event is open to everyone. Participants can contribute to valuable scientific research while enjoying the outdoors and learning more about their natural surroundings. For more information, visit the NCC’s website or the iNaturalist platform.

Local veteran firefighter Bob Bishop with a table full of his firefighting equipment and memorabilia. Photo by William Crooks

Local veteran firefighter talks causes and potential solutions

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

As reports circulate on the rising wildfire problem in Canada, including shocking video of the devastation in Jasper, Alberta, climate change is blamed as the primary culprit. But some experts identify different causes and offer alternate solutions.

In a July 25 interview, Bob Bishop, a seasoned veteran firefighter (now working with Bury’s fire department) with over six decades of experience, shared his extensive knowledge and observations on the current state of wildfires, particularly in Canada.

Bishop, who began his career at the Ontario Forest Ranger School in 1967, has fought fires across the country, from small townships to vast crown forest lands. His deep understanding of the causes of wildfires, coupled with his experience in various firefighting roles, provide a valuable perspective on an issue that is sometimes solely attributed to climate change.

A storied career in firefighting

Bishop’s journey in firefighting started in Ontario and extended to various regions, including Attawapiskat, Thunder Bay, and Espanola, where he served as a fire protection supervisor for a large timber company. Over the years, he witnessed the evolution of firefighting techniques and equipment.

He recounted his early days, “I worked for the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources, starting as a crewman and eventually becoming a senior fire officer at a fire base near the Manitoba border.” His responsibilities included directing water bombers as an air attack officer and supervising a team of firefighters and equipment operators.

One of the significant fires Bishop worked on was the Whistle Lake fire in Thunder Bay, where he spent 19 days. “We had to roll up 72 miles of hose after that fire,” he recalled, noting the challenges posed by mosquitoes and other harsh conditions.

Throughout his career, Bishop was involved in various aspects of firefighting, from small fires to major project fires that lasted weeks. His diverse roles included working as an air attack officer and later as a fire protection supervisor for a large timber company in Espanola. “We actioned a lot of fires and actually got them out before the ministry was required,” he recalled, highlighting the proactive approach taken during his tenure.

Causes of wildfires: Beyond climate change

While acknowledging the impact of climate change on the increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires, Bishop emphasized that it is not the sole factor. He pointed out other significant contributors, such as human activities and outdated firefighting practices and equipment. “There’s no doubt about climate change; we’re getting bigger, more fires every year. But it’s not just that,” Bishop asserted.

One of the primary causes of wildfires, according to Bishop, is lightning strikes, which account for at least 50 per cent of wildfires in Canada. “In the U.S., more fires are started by people, but they also get lightning too,” he added.

Other human-induced factors include sparks from railway tracks, particularly during welding activities, and careless practices in forest operations. Bishop noted, “Railways can start fires from sparks off the track, especially during hot welding on old rail beds. Similarly, bulldozers working on scarification can hit rocks and start fires when it’s dry.”

He also mentioned that fishermen setting up campfires for shore lunches can inadvertently start fires if they are not careful. “There’s a whole bunch of causes,” Bishop said, stressing that these factors are often overlooked in the broader discussion about wildfire causes.

Technical insights and equipment

Bishop offered a detailed comparison between wildland and structural firefighting equipment. He explained that wildland hoses are generally lighter and use different couplings than structural hoses, which are heavier and designed to withstand rough conditions. “Most of the time we use inch-and-a-half forestry hose with quarter-turn couplings. The hose is much lighter for wildland use, and it actually percolates to prevent burning if dragged through a small fire,” he explained.

He also highlighted the importance of using modern pumps and equipment in firefighting. One of his favorite pumps is a portable pump weighing only 17 pounds. “That little pump can pump a thousand feet of hose and provide good working pressure. It’s very effective for smaller fires or when used in the back of a truck,” Bishop noted.

Innovative solutions and challenges

Bishop is a strong advocate for the use of modern technologies and materials to combat wildfires more effectively. He highlighted the potential of newer fire retardants which he claimed could be two to three times more effective than the long-standing chemicals used in water bombers. “[These retardants are] a water-based gel that makes the water much more effective and allows it to stay longer, not evaporating as quickly,” he explained.

Despite its demonstrated efficacy and environmental safety, Bishop lamented the lack of adoption, particularly in Canadian provinces. “We got one province, Saskatchewan, to use it. They were very impressed, but for some reason, we couldn’t get other provinces on board,” he said.

Bishop described his efforts to promote a type of this gel across Canada and the United States, detailing his disappointment that more regions did not adopt it despite its effectiveness. “We traveled from New Brunswick to British Columbia and even to the United States to introduce this product. Unfortunately, we only got Saskatchewan to use it extensively,” he said.

Importance of external sprinklers

Another practical solution Bishop suggested is the use of exterior sprinklers to protect homes and buildings from wildfires. He shared an example from Red Lake, Ontario, where sprinklers saved a fishing camp from an approaching fire. “Even something as simple as an exterior sprinkler can protect your structure. They are not expensive and can significantly reduce fire damage,” he explained, frustrated that more communities are not adopting such measures.

He elaborated on how these systems work, describing how sprinklers can protect structures by keeping them wet and preventing embers from igniting roofs or walls. “Sprinklers like these can make a huge difference. In many cases, they can reduce fire damage to buildings by up to 80 per cent,” Bishop emphasized.

The need for modernization

Bishop stressed the importance of updating firefighting resources and infrastructure to match the evolving challenges posed by wildfires. He recalled the efficient network of small fire bases that once dotted Ontario, providing quick responses to fire reports.

However, these have been replaced by larger, centralized bases, which Bishop believes has led to slower response times. “We used to have little bases all over the place, and they took them out because they said they were too expensive. But now, with these giant bases, the response time has increased,” he observed.

The veteran firefighter also underscored the importance of modern communication and tracking technologies. He cited advancements such as lightning detection systems and predictive fire behavior models developed by the Canadian Forest Service, which can forecast a fire’s path and speed based on weather conditions and fuel types. “These capabilities are great, but they weren’t around in my early days,” Bishop noted, emphasizing the need for continued innovation.

Bishop also mentioned the importance of having tin roofs on buildings in fire-prone areas and the use of materials that do not easily catch fire. He highlighted that even with modern technology, simple precautions can make a significant difference in preventing fire damage.

A call for action

As wildfires continue to pose a significant threat, Bishop’s insights and recommendations highlight the need for a comprehensive approach to firefighting that goes beyond addressing climate change. He calls for the adoption of new technologies, improved infrastructure, and better public awareness and preparedness measures. “It’s not just about the number of fires; it’s about how we respond to them. We need to be proactive and use the best tools available,” he said.

Ian McLeod. Photo courtesy

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Lennoxville native Ian McLeod, an accomplished author and former documentary filmmaker, shared his deep-rooted connection to the Eastern Townships in a July 24 interview about his latest novel, “The Dispossessed.” The book delves into the life of Donald Morrison, the notorious Megantic Outlaw, and captures a vivid portrayal of 19th-century Quebec.

Born and raised in Lennoxville, McLeod’s connection to the Eastern Townships runs deep. “My father and grandparents were from Megantic, and my grandmother told me the story of the Outlaw when I was quite young,” he reminisced. McLeod, who now resides in Toronto, left the Eastern Townships at the age of 17 but has never forgotten his roots. His latest novel, “The Dispossessed,” is a testament to his enduring fascination with the region’s history.

The story of Donald Morrison, a Scottish-Canadian folk hero, is central to McLeod’s narrative. “Morrison grew up in Megantic and later went out west to Montana to work as a cowboy. He sent money back home to support his family, but through some shady financial transactions, they lost the family farm,” McLeod explained.

Morrison’s story, marked by his evasion of the law and the local community’s support, resonated with McLeod from a young age. “It struck me as a very interesting story,” he said, adding that it stayed with him over the years, eventually inspiring him to write the book.

“The Dispossessed” is narrated by Peter Span, a young reporter from the Montreal Daily Star, who becomes embroiled in Morrison’s story. The narrative explores the complex dynamics between the characters and the societal pressures of the time.

McLeod, drawing from his own experiences as a journalist, infuses the story with insights into the nature of journalism and the pursuit of truth. “There’s also sort of an under-theme of journalism… just how journalists try to shape the narration of the story they’re covering,” McLeod noted.

The Eastern Townships’ setting plays a crucial role in the book, providing not only the backdrop but also a cultural and historical context. “The story takes place in the Eastern Townships, which is very important to the story. Megantic was a Scottish settlement, and that area’s rich history is integral to the narrative,” McLeod emphasized. McLeod’s personal connection to the region is evident in his meticulous research, which he conducted using a variety of sources, including extensive internet research.

McLeod hopes that readers will not only enjoy the thrilling plot and well-developed characters but also gain a deeper understanding of the history of the Eastern Townships. “I’m a history buff, and I find history interesting on a number of dimensions,” he said. “I think it’s important that people know the history of their area, told in an entertaining, kind of page-turning way.”

Reflecting on his childhood in Lennoxville, McLeod expressed fond memories of the small-town community. “A small town is a great place for a kid to grow up,” he said, recalling his time on Academy Street and school days in the area. He also mentioned attending a reunion for the former Lennoxville High School, now an elementary school, which he described as a nostalgic experience that reconnected him with his past.

As McLeod continues to promote “The Dispossessed,” he remains passionate about sharing the rich history of the Eastern Townships. The book is available on Amazon and at Black Cat Books in Lennoxville, offering readers a chance to explore a captivating tale that intertwines history, culture, and adventure.

Jennifer Garfat. Photo courtesy

Tête-à-têtes with your local elected officials

Lennoxville Councillor Jennifer Garfat shared insights into her life, work, and the challenges facing the community during a July 23 interview. With roots deep in the region, Garfat’s story reflects a strong connection to the area and a commitment to public service.

Born in Sherbrooke, Garfat grew up on a dairy farm on Spring Road. Her childhood was filled with activities such as the Lennoxville 4-H Club, Brownies, and Guides, which she fondly recalls. “I went to LES and later Galt, Champlain, then studied at McGill University’s Macdonald Campus, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture,” she said.

Garfat noted significant changes in Lennoxville over the years. “Many organizations that were staples of my youth, like the Lennoxville 4-H Club and the Brownies and Guides, have faded away,” she remarked. “Even the number of businesses has shifted, with fewer gas stations and bars than in the past.”

Garfat’s career journey began after her graduation when she worked at AgriAnalysis for two years. She then got married and lived in various parts of Quebec before settling back in Lennoxville 21 years ago. Since then, she has been employed at Clark & Son’s.

Her entry into municipal politics was inspired by a practical concern. “I was complaining to [local municipal politician] Claude [Charron] one day about snow issues in Viewpoint, and he suggested running for election to address these problems directly,” she explained. Encouraged by her family, particularly her son, Garfat decided to run, leading to her current position as a councillor.

Now in her second mandate, Garfat’s role involves more than just attending meetings. “Tuesdays are typically packed with meetings, including those with the City of Sherbrooke or local organizations,” she said. “I also engage with groups like the St. Francis Valley Naturalist Club and the Lennoxville and District Women’s Centre to stay connected with local issues.”

A recurring concern for Garfat is the lack of volunteer participation in community events and organizations. “There’s a noticeable decline in volunteers, which puts a lot of pressure on those who are active,” she noted. This issue was particularly evident with events like Friendship Day, which lacked a parade due to insufficient volunteer support.

Garfat also highlighted her involvement with the local Genealogy Society, specifically in compiling military biographies. “I helped with research and provided support, particularly in English, for the anglophone edition released last year,” she said.

When discussing challenges facing Lennoxville, Garfat emphasized issues like speeding in residential areas and communication barriers. “Speeding is a significant concern, especially in areas like Mount Street and Charlotte Street, where drivers use shortcuts to avoid traffic lights,” she explained. “While speed bumps near schools are a good start, we need more comprehensive solutions.”

Communication is another challenge, with not all residents accessing information through local newspapers and the Lantern, which only publishes a few times a year. “Finding effective ways to reach everyone is crucial,” she said.

The conversation also touched on the discontinued Lennoxville Street Fair, a decision driven by budget reallocations to support Square Queen activities. “Square Queen provides activities from June to October, offering more sustained community engagement than a one-day event like the street fair,” Garfat explained. “While some residents miss the street fair, the extended programming has been well-received.”

Looking ahead, Garfat noted that the municipal budget discussions will be a significant focus in the fall. She also mentioned the upcoming Pumpkin Festival and the return of students, events that bring vibrancy to the community.

In reflecting on Lennoxville’s current state, Garfat expressed both pride and a sense of perspective. “While we face challenges, they’re minor compared to global issues,” she said. “Lennoxville is a great place to live, and I’m committed to addressing the problems we do have.”

As for the future, Garfat hinted at continued community involvement and keeping an eye on local needs. “I’m always looking for ways to contribute, whether through council or other local initiatives,” she said.

Janie Lefebvre, Magog outreach worker. Photo Courtesy

Magog outreach worker talks rising problem, potential solutions

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Memphremagog Lake area has witnessed a dramatic surge in homelessness interventions over the past several years, underscoring a growing crisis exacerbated by soaring housing costs and economic instability.

Community Outreach Worker Janie Lefebvre, who has been dedicated to homelessness prevention in the Magog area for seven years, offers a unique and insightful perspective on this crisis. In a July 23 interview, she explained the multifaceted nature of homelessness and the evolving challenges faced by those affected.

According to recent data provided by Lefebvre, the number of interventions has skyrocketed from 15 between April, 2016, and March, 2017, to 511 from April, 2023, to March, 2024. This represents a staggering increase of 3,307 per cent.

“Pre-pandemic, there was homelessness in Magog, but it was more hidden,” Lefebvre noted. “People were staying on friends’ couches or in unstable living conditions. Today, it’s much more visible, and we’re seeing a broader range of people impacted, from families to the elderly, and even individuals who are employed but can’t find affordable housing.”

Lefebvre highlighted that the face of homelessness has changed significantly. “I’m getting calls from women as much as men, and from people who are working yet struggling to find a place to live because of the exorbitant rent prices,” she said. According to Lefebvre, in Magog, the average rent for an apartment has surged to $1,500, a rate previously associated with luxury condominiums.

The economic strain is evident in the increasing demand for emergency and transitional housing. Lefebvre shared that the community’s resource centre, which offers temporary housing for both men and women, is perpetually full. “We have six beds right now, and they are always occupied. The demand is incredibly high.”

The issue of “renovictions”—landlords evicting tenants under the guise of renovations to subsequently raise rents—has also become prevalent in the region. “I’ve seen many cases where landlords use renovations as a reason to evict tenants, only to double the rent afterward,” Lefebvre explained.

Addressing the housing crisis requires more than just emergency measures. Lefebvre advocates for a comprehensive approach that includes building more affordable housing and ensuring that rental prices remain within reach for the average resident. “Affordable housing should constitute 25 to 30 per cent of one’s salary,” she emphasized. “Right now, we’re far from that standard.”

Despite the grim statistics, Lefebvre remains hopeful that increased awareness and community efforts can drive meaningful change. “We need more resources, more emergency housing, and more transitional housing,” she said. “It’s about creating stability and giving people a chance to get back on their feet.”

Lefebvre also stressed the importance of community support and compassion. “Something as simple as making eye contact and smiling at someone experiencing homelessness can make a significant difference. It’s a dehumanizing experience, and small gestures of kindness can help restore dignity.”

The rise in homelessness is not isolated to Magog but reflects a broader trend across the Eastern Townships and Quebec. “In Cowansville and other parts of Quebec, we’re seeing similar patterns,” Lefebvre pointed out. “The housing crisis is widespread, and it’s affecting communities everywhere.”

Lefebvre’s work extends beyond direct intervention with the homeless population. She also focuses on preventing homelessness by assisting those at risk. “I get calls from people whose leases are ending, who are going through separations, or who are facing other crises that put them at risk of becoming homeless,” she said. “I help them find apartments and resources to prevent them from ending up on the streets.”

In July 2020, a new resource was established in Magog to provide additional support. The facility offers emergency housing with a maximum stay of three months, catering separately to men and women. It also includes transitional housing where individuals can stay for up to six months at a subsidized rate. “This initiative has been crucial in providing immediate relief to those in dire situations,” Lefebvre stated.

However, the struggle for funding remains a significant obstacle. “We don’t have recurring financing for our housing programs. Every year, we have to find new funding sources to keep these critical services running,” Lefebvre explained. “It’s a constant challenge and one that limits our ability to expand our services to meet the growing demand.”

The winter months and the period leading up to July 1, when many leases end, have traditionally been the busiest times for homelessness interventions. However, Lefebvre observed that the crisis has now become a year-round issue. “It’s been like this for a few years, and it just keeps getting busier every year. More and more calls as the rent prices keep going up and up,” she said.

To combat this crisis effectively, Lefebvre reiterated that a multi-faceted approach is necessary. “We need more emergency and transitional housing, more affordable apartments, and better funding for homelessness prevention programs,” she said. “Building more affordable housing is essential, but we also need to ensure that a portion of units in new developments are set aside at lower prices.”

Spreading awareness and fostering community involvement are also key components of the solution. “By talking about the issue and spreading awareness, we can help reduce the stigma around homelessness and encourage more community support,” Lefebvre emphasized. “We have many resources in our community, such as food banks and support services, but people need to be aware of them and know how to access them.”

Nevertheless, Lefebvre offered a message of hope and resilience. “The situation is challenging, but with increased awareness, community support, and adequate funding, we can make a difference. It’s about giving people a chance to rebuild their lives and ensuring that everyone has a safe, stable place to call home.”

Aline Berthe, Co-Executive Director at the Regional Environmental Council of Estrie, Ève Courtois, Science Communicator at RAPPEL, Dr. David O’Connor, Project Manager at the Regional Environmental Council of Estrie, and Jean Nadeau, President of the Brompton Lake Protection Association. Photo by  William Crooks

Community unites to combat threat in Estrie

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The small hall at the Club Chasse et Pêche in Saint-Denis-de-Brompton was filled to capacity July 23 as concerned citizens, local officials, and environmental activists gathered to discuss the pressing issue of invasive aquatic species threatening the lakes of Estrie. Hosted by the Regional Environmental Council of Estrie (CREE), the event featured a comprehensive presentation of a recent study and a strategic plan to combat these environmental threats.

Aline Berthe, Co-Executive Director of the CREE, kicked off the event. “The room might seem small, but the turnout today shows just how crucial this issue is,” she remarked. “We’re here to present the results of a pivotal study conducted as part of the project titled ‘Strategic Regional, Interregional, and Quebec-wide Governance of Invasive Species.’ This study is a collaborative effort involving multiple regional councils across Quebec.”

Berthe emphasized the collective effort required to tackle invasive species, highlighting the involvement of councils from Estrie, Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Laurentides, and Montérégie. The goal is to develop a regional strategy to combat invasive aquatic species and raise awareness among decision-makers, organizations, and the public.

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Invasive aquatic species in Estrie

Impact and prevalence
The spread of invasive aquatic species (IAS) in Estrie has significant environmental, social, and economic consequences. Currently, 23 IAS have been identified in the region, including the zebra mussel, Eurasian watermilfoil, spiny water flea, and Chinese mystery snail. These species disrupt local ecosystems, damage infrastructure, and interfere with recreational activities.

Regional strategy
The CREE is implementing a pilot project from 2023 to 2025, funded by Fisheries and Oceans Canada, to develop a regional strategy aimed at reducing the spread and introduction of IAS. Key to this effort is the washing of recreational boats and equipment between bodies of water to prevent transportation of these species.

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Study findings and the Georgian viviparid (or banded mystery snail) discovery

Dr. David O’Connor, Project Manager at the CREE, provided an in-depth overview of the study. “During our research, we confirmed the presence of a new invasive species, the Georgian viviparid, in Brompton Lake,” O’Connor announced. “This discovery underscores the importance of vigilance and collective action to protect our precious aquatic ecosystems.”

The study identified various lakes in Estrie at risk of contamination, classifying them based on the ease with which invasive species could spread. Lakes were categorized into two levels: red and yellow. The red level indicates lakes containing species with planktonic stages, such as zebra mussels and Georgian viviparids, which can be difficult to detect and require rigorous decontamination procedures. Yellow-level lakes contain species that are easier to remove manually.

O’Connor stressed the importance of proper decontamination protocols to prevent the spread of invasive species. “When leaving a contaminated lake, it is vital to decontaminate all equipment and watercraft using hot, high-pressure water. This method ensures that any organisms are removed or killed, preventing further spread.”

He recommended a temperature of at least 60 degrees Celsius for at least one minute to effectively kill most invasive species. “Even a small amount of water in a life jacket or some soil on water shoes can transport these species,” he warned.

Community and municipal efforts

Jean Nadeau, President of the Brompton Lake Protection Association, highlighted the efforts taken by the local community and municipalities. “Our association has worked tirelessly since 1978 to protect Brompton Lake,” Nadeau said. “Last year, we saw the installation of two self-service decontamination stations in Saint-Denis-de-Brompton and Orford, thanks to the cooperation of local municipalities.”

Nadeau called for further action from municipal leaders to enforce mandatory decontamination protocols. “After two summers of education and awareness campaigns, it’s time to implement common regulations across our municipalities. We need to make decontamination mandatory for all watercraft entering our lakes, including imposing fines for non-compliance.”

Ève Courtois, Science Communicator at RAPPEL, emphasized the role of education in preventing the spread of invasive species. “Prevention is crucial because once these species establish themselves, they are extremely difficult and costly to eradicate,” Courtois explained. “That’s why we advocate for the ‘wash, drain, dry’ method between every water body visit.”

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Contaminated water bodies in Estrie

High-risk zones

Estrie has several water bodies classified as high-risk for IAS contamination. The classification system includes two levels: Red and Yellow.

– Red Level: Seventeen bodies of water are at Red Level, indicating the presence of IAS with planktonic stages that are invisible to the naked eye, requiring thorough decontamination with hot water at both high and low pressure. Notable Red Level waters include Baie Missisquoi, Lac Memphrémagog, and Rivière Magog.

– Yellow Level: Forty-three bodies of water fall under the Yellow Level, indicating IAS that are easier to remove. High-pressure washing and thorough inspections are usually sufficient. Examples include Lac Brome and Lac Orford.

Prevention Measures

To prevent the spread of IAS, it’s crucial to wash, drain, and dry all equipment and boats after use. This includes removing visible debris, draining water from all compartments, and ensuring everything is completely dry before the next use. Following these steps helps protect the region’s water bodies from further contamination.

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Question period and community engagement

The event concluded with a question-and-answer session, where community members raised various concerns. A reporter inquired about the number of lakes sampled in Estrie for invasive species. O’Connor responded, “With over 3,000 lakes larger than one hectare, it’s a monumental task. Our current list includes 61 lakes with known occurrences, but many more are likely affected.”

Another resident asked about the temperature required for effective decontamination. “Research shows that 60 degrees Celsius for at least 15 seconds is effective against most species, but we recommend one minute to be safe,” Courtois replied.

A long-time local fisherman questioned the practicality of washing boats after every use. O’Connor acknowledged the challenge but stressed its importance. “While it may seem inconvenient, the long-term benefits of protecting our lakes far outweigh the short-term efforts.”

The event ended with a call to action for all attendees. “Protecting our lakes is a shared responsibility,” Berthe concluded. “We must all remain vigilant and committed to implementing these safety measures to preserve our natural heritage for future generations.”

Gabriel Safdie and Eva Juul. Photo courtesy

Transforming Stanstead through art and vision

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Gabriel Safdie, a multifaceted businessman and artist, has embarked on an ambitious mission to help revitalize Stanstead. His journey, marked by a blend of academic rigor, artistic passion, and community commitment, is intended to turn this historic border town into a thriving cultural hub.

Born in Jerusalem, Israel, Safdie moved to Canada at the age of 13, after spending his formative years in Haifa. “I came to Canada and then spent some years in London and Paris, where I worked on my doctorate in literature and taught creative writing,” he shared in an interview July 18. His academic pursuits were complemented by a burgeoning interest in theater and development, which eventually led him to Stanstead.

Safdie’s involvement with Stanstead began in the late 1970s. “I moved here and got to know the community over the years,” he said. A pivotal moment came in 2008 when he was introduced to the old Border Theatre. “I had a vision for it. It was a momentary sense of insanity, but I saw the potential to do something significant with that building.”

Despite initial setbacks, including unsuccessful ventures and dealing with uncooperative tenants, Safdie persevered. “At least we spared [some] building[s] from becoming a slum,” he remarked. His determination to rejuvenate Stanstead was evident as he spoke about various projects, including a restaurant that, while ultimately unsuccessful due to unreliable partners, served as a learning experience.

Safdie’s contributions to Stanstead are not limited to the Border Theatre. In 2009, he was instrumental in setting up a significant landmark, the standing stones, in the town—a project that brought together community members and experts alike. “We managed to put it up in two days. It was an inspiring and uplifting experience,” he recalled.

His artistic pursuits also led to the establishment of an art gallery, Ye Olde Blacksmith, in 2008, spearheaded by his wife, Eva. “Eva developed it into a wonderful, successful gallery. It’s a place that attracts people from all over, including Montreal and even international visitors,” Safdie noted. The gallery has become a cornerstone of the community, showcasing local artists and providing a platform for students to exhibit their work.

The pandemic posed challenges, but Safdie adapted by creating a successful poetry Zoom event. “We had major poets from English and French backgrounds participate. It was a very good initiative that ran for three seasons,” he said. The event eventually transitioned to live events in local venues, further enriching Stanstead’s cultural landscape.

Looking ahead, Safdie’s vision for Stanstead includes the transformation of the Border Theatre into a state-of-the-art facility. “It’s been decades that I’ve wanted to fix it up,” he admitted. The building, constructed by the Haskell family in 1912, has a rich history. “It was an early cinema and continued functioning until the 1970s. It survived two fires and was eventually [closed down] for construction purposes.”

Safdie’s background in theater and development, which began during his time in London in the 1960s, has been pivotal in his efforts. He served as the president of the Playwrights’ Workshop for ten years in Montreal and has been deeply involved in nurturing new writers. “I’ve always focused on developing new talent and working with emerging playwrights,” he emphasized.

The restoration of the Border Theatre is supported by various stakeholders, including an architect who specializes in theater projects. “[The architect] is wonderful to work with. We’ve secured funding from the federal government and are working on making the building completely green,” Safdie explained. The project has faced bureaucratic hurdles, but Safdie remains optimistic. “The building costs have gone up by 26 per cent due to delays, but we’re committed to making it happen.”

Besides his work in Stanstead, Safdie is also finishing a book on his experiences in China. “I’ve spent a lot of time in China, exploring the country and its culture. The book is in its final stages and will soon be ready for publication,” he revealed.

Safdie’s involvement in the arts extends to his role as president of Traquen’art, an organization dedicated to world music. “I’m very active in various cultural activities. For me, everything connects, whether it’s theater, writing, or music,” he said.

As the conversation drew to a close, Safdie reflected on the future of Stanstead. “We have a very optimistic outlook. The Border Theatre will be a meaningful cultural center for the community and beyond. It’s going to involve Stanstead College and other local institutions. I’m looking forward to a very positive outcome for this venture,” he said.

Raphael’s Sistine Madonna (~1512). Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.org

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

On Aug. 11, at 10:30 a.m., the Unitarian Universalist Church of North Hatley will host a special lecture by esteemed local art historian Adele Ernstrom. Ernstrom, a retired Fine Arts professor from Bishop’s University and a member of the Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW) Sherbrooke & District, will present her insights on “Raphael’s Sistine Madonna: Art and Prophecy in the 19th Century.”

Ernstrom, who founded the Department of Fine Arts at Bishop’s University in the late 1970s, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to this presentation. Her primary field of study has been 19th-century English art, but she has developed a profound appreciation for the Renaissance, especially the works of Raphael.

In an interview with the Record July 22, Ernstrom shared her excitement about discussing Raphael’s iconic painting. “Raphael was always highly respected and had an enormous reputation, but the Sistine Madonna, commissioned for a church in Piacenza, was initially rather obscure,” she explained. “People who wanted to see art on the continent, particularly the English nobility, typically went to Florence, Rome, or Venice, rather than this out-of-the-way monastery church.”

The painting’s journey to fame began when Augustus III, King of Poland, acquired it for his gallery in Dresden. “This acquisition was a prize for his gallery in Dresden, which, at the time, was a princely gallery in what is now East Germany,” Ernstrom noted. “It became a prime attraction there, especially at the end of the 18th century when the Romantic Circle, including figures like the Schlegel brothers and Friedrich Schelling, began to take an interest in it.”

Ernstrom highlighted how the Romantic Circle’s interest in fine art brought attention to Raphael’s painting. “This group considered knowledge of fine art crucial, and they drew attention to the Sistine Madonna within the German-speaking lands,” she said. “However, it remained relatively unknown among English-speaking audiences because few ventured into that part of Europe, and even fewer spoke German.”

The painting began to gain recognition in the English-speaking world thanks to a few key individuals, including an Anglo-Irish woman who became a close friend of Ottilie von Goethe. “She was a passionate admirer of Raphael and wrote about the painting in her book ‘Visits and Sketches at Home and Abroad,’ which went through three editions in the 1830s,” Ernstrom explained. “This drew significant attention to the painting in English-speaking parts of the world.”

Ernstrom also discussed the broader cultural impact of the Sistine Madonna. “The painting was admired by people of many different religious persuasions,” she said. “Most of the names I could cite are not Roman Catholic; they are Church of England or other Protestant denominations. The painting’s remarkable qualities and the depiction of the Virgin as an active, standing figure resonated widely.”

The lecture will explore the painting’s significance in both religious and cultural contexts. “[Anna] Jameson’s book, ‘Legends of Madonna,’ was the first extensive exploration of the Madonna’s imagery in Western art,” Ernstrom mentioned. “She looked at traditions in all pre-Christian faiths and noted how the Christian Madonna was indebted to these earlier traditions. This was something the Catholic Church was not particularly comfortable with, especially during a period of intense religious ferment.”

Ernstrom pointed out that the 19th century was a time of significant religious and social movements. “We had pronouncements by the Pope on the Immaculate Conception and the infallibility of the Pope,” she said. “There were also movements like utopian socialism and the cooperative movement. The Madonna was very much engaged in these religious movements.”

She emphasized the painting’s impact on the women’s suffrage movement. “In the imagery of the women’s suffrage movement, we often find a modern woman in contemporary dress paired with a Madonna figure, linking the claims of the suffragists to the idea that women are mothers,” Ernstrom explained. “This imagery was a constant in posters and other materials generated by suffragettes during their long campaign to win the vote.”

Ernstrom shared examples of the Sistine Madonna’s influence on various literary and cultural figures. “Harriet Beecher Stowe in ‘Uncle Tom’s Cabin’ portrays Eliza, the slave mother, in terms informed by her acquaintance with Jameson’s writings about the Madonna,” she said. “Eliza’s escape across the Ohio River with her child echoes the themes of maternal protection and strength depicted in the Sistine Madonna.”

She also mentioned Angelina Grimké’s play, which was the first play produced by an African-American writer. “The play features a woman who has a reproduction of the Sistine Madonna in her apartment,” Ernstrom noted. “This image becomes a symbol of hope and resilience, even in the face of the horrors of lynching.”

Ernstrom concluded by discussing the painting’s enduring legacy. “The Sistine Madonna continues to be a powerful and compelling image,” she said. “Its richness of interpretation allows it to resonate across different contexts and periods. The presentation of the Madonna as an active figure arriving from heaven, holding the Christ child, remains a unique and influential depiction.”

Local residents and art enthusiasts are encouraged to attend and learn more at this insightful lecture. “We are so fortunate to have so many talented and interesting women in our group,” a CFUW Sherbrooke & District representative commented on Facebook July 21, expressing gratitude for Ernstrom’s contributions to the community.

For those interested in art history and the profound connections between Renaissance art and 19th-century cultural movements, Adele Ernstrom’s lecture promises to be a captivating and informative event.

Jesse Dymond, Anglican minister, musician, and outdoor enthusiast. Photo courtesy

A personal account and regional efforts

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Jesse Dymond, a local minister, Bishop’s University chaplain, and avid outdoor enthusiast from the Eastern Townships, recently shared his harrowing experience with Lyme disease, shedding light on the growing prevalence and impact of the illness in the region. During an interview on July 18, Dymond recounted his journey from the initial symptoms to his ongoing recovery, offering valuable insights into the challenges faced by those affected by Lyme disease.

Dymond’s ordeal began towards the end of the winter semester when he started experiencing a lack of energy, which he initially attributed to the seasonal transition. However, by mid-June, his condition took a drastic turn for the worse. After a weekend of kayaking with his son, he developed severe symptoms, including uncontrollable shivering, intense migraines, and extreme fatigue. “I couldn’t get out of bed,” Dymond recalled, and he was unable to eat. “I had one of the worst migraines I’d ever had, lasting almost a week.”

The severity of his symptoms prompted his family to call an ambulance. “After five days of not getting better, it was clear that something was seriously wrong,” Dymond said. Despite extensive testing for various conditions, including malaria and scarlet fever, it wasn’t until a doctor noticed a rash on his arm that Lyme disease was considered. “The doctor looked at my arm and asked about the rash,” Dymond explained. This discovery led to Lyme disease testing, which confirmed the diagnosis.

Dymond’s condition had progressed to stage two Lyme disease, meaning the bacteria had already spread to multiple systems in his body, including his nervous system. He experienced swelling around his head, difficulty opening his mouth, and numbness in his limbs. “The bacteria had entered my nervous system, affecting the nerves in my face and limbs,” he said. This progression necessitated a change in treatment, and Dymond was placed on intravenous (IV) antibiotics, which he administers at home.

The treatment process has been extensive and challenging. Dymond described learning to use a PICC line and an IV pump, with weekly visits to the CLSC to ensure the treatment was progressing correctly. Despite the rigorous treatment regimen, Dymond expressed gratitude for the care he received. “The attention and commitment to figuring out what was wrong and getting me on the path to healing were incredible,” he said.

Dymond’s recovery has been gradual. While he is no longer experiencing extreme pain or significant loss of sensation, he still deals with numbness in his face and occasional dizziness. “I do get dizzy in crowded spaces, and my eyes struggle to keep up, making me feel like I’m on a boat,” he noted. His daily activities are limited, and he has had to put many of his outdoor pursuits on hold, including kayaking. “I can’t go swimming or have water access because of the PICC line in my arm,” Dymond explained. “Even showers are challenging, as I have to wrap my arm in saran wrap.”

Despite these setbacks, Dymond remains hopeful for a full recovery. His doctors have advised that most of his symptoms should clear up within the next few weeks, although there is a possibility of lingering inflammation and swelling that may require additional treatment. “The expectation is that all symptoms should clear up, but if they don’t, it will be due to inflammation, and we’ll treat that separately,” he said.

Dymond’s story highlights the importance of early detection and treatment of Lyme disease. “When caught in stage one, Lyme disease can be treated with a one-day course of antibiotics or a few weeks of doxycycline,” he explained. “However, because I was in a later stage and it had progressed to neurological Lyme, my treatment was more complex.”

Looking ahead, Dymond is aware of the potential for post-treatment Lyme syndrome (PTLS), a condition where symptoms persist even after the bacteria has been cleared. “There’s a clinic for PTLS at the hospital, but I’m not there yet, and hopefully, I won’t get there,” he said. He emphasized the importance of awareness and prevention, particularly in regions where Lyme disease is endemic. “Ticks are everywhere in the region, and if you spend time outdoors or have pets, they are a reality,” Dymond said. He urged the community to be vigilant and take preventive measures seriously.

Government support for Lyme Disease research

In a related development, the Quebec government has taken steps to support Lyme disease research in the region. On July 18, Isabelle Charest, the Member of the National Assembly for Brome-Missisquoi and Minister responsible for Sport, Recreation, and the Outdoors, announced a financial contribution to the Lyme Disease Research Chair at the University of Sherbrooke.

Charest provided $9,500 from her discretionary budget for Volunteer Action Support to the University’s foundation to aid the research chair. “Given that Brome-Missisquoi is at the epicentre of Lyme disease cases in Quebec, it is natural for us to support the research chair in achieving its objectives,” Charest stated in the release. She emphasized the importance of the scientific advancements that will result from the research, which will enhance the understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of Lyme disease.

Dr. Alex Carignan, a professor-researcher at the University of Sherbrooke’s Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences and a microbiologist-infectiologist at the CIUSSS de l’Estrie – CHUS, received the funds on behalf of the foundation. Carignan leads the Lyme Disease and Emerging Infections Research Chair and is dedicated to advancing the study of Lyme disease and other tick-borne illnesses.

The Volunteer Action Support program, which provided the funding, assists organizations in meeting community needs in areas such as leisure, sports, and community action. Each member of the National Assembly has a discretionary budget to support such projects in their constituency.

For more information on the Lyme Disease and Emerging Infections Research Chair, visit the University of Sherbrooke’s website. For more information on tick-borne diseases, visit the Institut national de santé publique du Québec: inspq.qc.ca

This article has been modified from its original version to correct a quote.

Patrick Clowery, President of the Intermunicipal Board of the Massawippi Regional Park, in front of the Eustis covered bridge, one of the stops in the real-life escape game. Photo Courtesy

New adventure game set to showcase the charms of Lake Massawippi

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Memphrémagog Regional County Municipality (MRC) has announced July 18 an innovative real escape room-style adventure game titled “Legends of Lake Massawippi: The Quest for the Lost Pages.” This unique activity is set to highlight the eastern part of the MRC’s territory, focusing on Lake Massawippi and its surrounding municipalities.

The game, developed in collaboration with Défi-Évasion and the Régie intermunicipale du Parc régional Massawippi, invites participants to embark on a 58-kilometre journey, according to a recent press release. Players will reconstruct a collection of local tales and legends by solving puzzles at various stops. The route spans five municipalities: Ayer’s Cliff, Hatley Township, Hatley, North Hatley, and Sainte-Catherine-de-Hatley.

Participants have the flexibility to start at any municipality and can take breaks to enjoy the scenic views or extend their adventure over several days. Jacques Demers, Prefect of the MRC of Memphrémagog, emphasized the project’s intent to shift the spotlight to Lake Massawippi and its picturesque surroundings. “We want people to discover the beauty of our region through this engaging game,” he said in the release.

The initiative is part of the Signature Innovation Project funded by the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing’s Regions and Rurality Fund. Patrick Clowery, President of the Intermunicipal Board of the Massawippi Regional Park, explained that the concept was well-received by the park’s administration. “The MRC brought this interactive game idea to us, and we were immediately in favour,” he noted in a July 18 interview.

The game involves participants reconstituting a collection of stories and legends from the municipalities around Lake Massawippi. These stories are displayed on panels at various locations, and each panel presents a riddle or puzzle that participants must solve. The aim is to make the game both educational and entertaining, allowing participants to learn about the history and folklore of the region while enjoying a fun and interactive experience.

The game panels are being installed at key locations such as the Ayer’s Cliff Rest Area, Parc de Souvenirs in Hatley Township, and the covered bridge in North Hatley. “I hope the panels are already in place or will be shortly,” said Sonia Tremblay, General Director and Secretary-Treasurer of the Intermunicipal Board of the Massawippi Regional Park, expressing optimism about the installation timeline in a July 18 interview.

Tremblay provided more details about the game. “Each municipality has a panel at various sites where participants will solve riddles to uncover local legends,” she explained. For instance, a legend of Hatley Township requires players to piece together the story by finding clues at designated stops. “We’ve made sure that the panels are installed in easily accessible locations,” Tremblay added.

In North Hatley, participants will learn about the legend of Wippi, a monster said to inhabit the lake. “We tried to connect each story to the unique history and culture of the municipality it represents,” Tremblay explained.

The flexibility of the game allows participants to start at any of the five municipalities and complete the game at their own pace. “Participants are free to start and stop the game as they wish, taking time to explore the beautiful scenery and enjoy the local attractions,” said Tremblay. This flexibility is expected to attract a wide range of participants, from tourists looking for a unique activity to locals wanting to learn more about their region.

The project has been in the works for several months, and the MRC of Memphrémagog is eager to see it come to fruition. “We have been working closely with Défi-Évasion and the Régie Intermunicipale du Parc Régional Massawippi to ensure that everything is ready for the launch,” said Clowery. “We are confident that participants will enjoy the game and learn a lot about our region.”

The game is expected to be available throughout the summer, with panels and clues ready for participants to discover. “We are planning to have everything in place by the end of July,” said Tremblay. “We encourage everyone to come out and experience the Legends of Lake Massawippi for themselves.”

The MRC of Memphrémagog is also planning to promote the game through various channels, including social media, local newspapers, and tourism websites. “We want to make sure that as many people as possible know about this exciting new activity,” said Clowery. “We believe that it will be a great success and a wonderful addition to the attractions in our region.”

One of the bands from Fever Fest 2018. Photo from the Record’s archives

A community celebration with a cause

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The much-anticipated FeverFest 2024 is set to take place on July 27 and 28, from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. at 2845 Glenday in Lennoxville. This annual charity fundraiser is known for its vibrant atmosphere, eclectic mix of music, and community spirit, with this year promising to be bigger and better than ever.

FeverFest 2024 will feature 15 bands performing across a variety of genres, including rock, blues, jazz, and country. Each band will play a 45-minute set, ensuring that there is something for everyone. The event is free to attend, with donations encouraged to support local charities.

“We’re anticipating a larger turnout this year,” said Jean Pierre Lavallée, co-organizer and host of FeverFest in a July 17 interview. “Last year, we had around 300 people despite the bad weather, and we raised $6,000 for charity. With better weather expected, we’re hopeful for an even greater attendance and fundraising success.”

Some of the charities benefiting from this year’s FeverFest are Moisson Estrie and the Alzheimer’s Society of Estrie. “The rising cost of food and basic needs has led to a 50 per cent increase in requests for assistance,” Lavallée explained. “These organizations are crucial in supporting our community, and we want to do everything we can to help them.”

In addition to on-site donations, FeverFest organizers have set up a GoFundMe page to raise additional funds for the event’s infrastructure costs, including tents and portable toilets. John Maysenhoelder, the primary organizer, mentioned on Facebook the need for around $1,200 in sponsorships.

“We’ve received support from local businesses like Maxi from Lennoxville, Essential Motorcycle, and others, but we’re still looking for more sponsors to cover our expenses,” Lavallée said. “Every little bit helps, and we’re grateful for any contributions.”

For those who can’t attend the event, the GoFundMe page offers a convenient way to support the cause. “Even if you can’t make it, you can still make a difference,” Lavallée noted. “The GoFundMe link is available on our Facebook page, or you can message us directly for more information.”

Food will be a highlight at FeverFest, with Corey, the grill master, serving up free burgers and hot dogs donated by Maxi. While alcohol won’t be sold on-site due to logistical challenges, attendees are welcome to bring their own beverages. “We want everyone to have a good time, but safety is our priority, so no glass bottles, please,” Lavallée emphasized.

In addition to the music and food, there will be various raffles and giveaways throughout the weekend. “We’ve got some fantastic prizes lined up, including free oil changes from a local garage and musical instruments for the raffles,” Lavallée said. “It’s going to be a fun and exciting weekend for everyone involved.”

FeverFest is more than just a music festival; it’s a celebration of community and a testament to the power of coming together for a good cause. “I’ve been with the Alzheimer’s Society of Estrie for about four or five years now, and I’ve seen firsthand the impact that community support can have,” Lavallée shared. “With the increased need for assistance, it’s more important than ever for us to rally together.”

The festival has a long history of bringing people together, and this year is no different. “We’ve been doing this for over 10, 15 years now,” Lavallée reflected. “Every year, it’s the same recipe of great music, great food, and great company. We’re just excited to do it all over again and hopefully make an even bigger impact.”

As FeverFest 2024 approaches, the organizers are working tirelessly to ensure a memorable and successful event. “We want to thank everyone who has supported us so far, including our sponsors, volunteers, and attendees,” Lavallée said. “Your generosity and enthusiasm make all of this possible.”

For more information about FeverFest 2024, including how to donate or get involved, visit the event’s Facebook page or contact the organizers directly. “Come over and have some fun with us,” Lavallée encouraged. “And if you can’t make it, please consider supporting us through our GoFundMe page. Every little bit helps, and together, we can make a difference.” (www.gofundme.com/f/fever-fest-2024-sponsorship)

In the spirit of community and charity, FeverFest 2024 promises to be a weekend to remember, filled with music, laughter, and the joy of giving back. Don’t miss out on this incredible event – mark your calendars and join the fun at 2845 Glenday on July 27 and 28!

Stanstead flood of 1927. Photo Courtesy

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Residents and visitors to Rock Island are in for a spine-tingling treat this August with the inaugural Haunted History Ghost Tours. Taking place on August 2 and 3, these tours offer an immersive experience into the eerie past of this historic area.

The tours will run in two sessions each evening from 7 to 8 p.m. and 8 to 9 p.m. Participants are encouraged to arrive five minutes early and gather at the Haskell Free Library and Opera House, located at 1 Church Street. The tours are free of charge and promise a hauntingly good time for all who attend.

“We wanted to create an event that not only entertains but also educates people about the rich history of Stanstead,” said Evelyne Crevier, the Interim Director of the Haskell Library, in a July 17 interview. Crevier, who is also one of the tour guides, was inspired to start this event after attending a ghost tour in Burlington. “I thought it was the most fun thing ever and wanted to bring a similar experience to our community.”

The ghost tours will cover a small route in Rock Island, highlighting significant historical events and local lore. Participants will learn about the flood of 1927, the great fire, and other notable events that have left a lasting mark on the town. Crevier and her colleagues have meticulously researched these stories, ensuring that the tour is both informative and engaging.

“One of the most intriguing stories we’ll be sharing is about a patient of Dr. Colby in the mid-1800s,” Crevier explained. “She seemed to be possessed, and even though her eyes were closed, she could see everything around her. It’s a chilling tale that’s perfect for a ghost tour.”

The ghost tours are part of a broader effort to engage the community and attract visitors to Stanstead. “We’re always looking for ways to bring people together and showcase what makes our town special,” said Crevier. “Events like these not only provide entertainment but also foster a sense of community pride.”

Local businesses are also getting involved, with several offering special deals for tour participants. “We’ve had a great response from local shops and restaurants,” Crevier said. “They’re excited to welcome the tour-goers and add to the overall experience.”

While this is the first year for the Haunted History Ghost Tours, there are plans to make it an annual event. “We’re already thinking about how we can expand and improve the tours for next year,” Crevier shared. “There’s so much history here, and we want to continue sharing it with both residents and visitors.”

For those interested in local history and a good scare, the Haunted History Ghost Tours of Rock Island offer a unique and exciting opportunity. The blend of historical facts and ghostly tales ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Crevier and her team are also working on additional materials to enhance the tour experience. “We’re putting together posters and visual aids that will highlight some of the stops on our route,” she mentioned. “It’s going to be a comprehensive and engaging event.”

Don’t miss out on this exciting new event that promises to be both educational and entertaining. Join the Haunted History Ghost Tours of Rock Island and discover the secrets of Stanstead’s past!

Simon Roy. Photo Courtesy

Tête-à-têtes with your local elected officials

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Ayer’s Cliff is gearing up for significant changes under the leadership of Mayor Simon Roy. In a July 15 interview, Roy shared his journey, the town’s current projects, and his vision for the future. With a blend of personal anecdotes and detailed plans, Roy paints a picture of a community on the brink of transformation.

Background and early life

Born in Sherbrooke, Roy has deep roots in the region. “I was born here at the [CHUS],” he says, reminiscing about his early years. He lived there until he was around 22 to 24 years old. After completing his education, including a PhD in Ottawa, Roy returned to Sherbrooke, where he has been a professor at the University of Sherbrooke for over two decades.

“I did my law degree in Sherbrooke, then I did my master’s at Quebec. I stayed in Quebec for like four years, five years. Then I went to Ottawa to do my PhD, and when I was about 30, I got a job at the university, so I came back here,” he explained. His connection to the area and his professional background have provided a solid foundation for his role as mayor.

A chance mayoral run

Roy’s journey to becoming mayor was somewhat serendipitous. He recounted, “The [Director General] at the time… called me and asked me to be a volunteer for the election. I initially declined because it coincided with Halloween, an important day for my kids.”

However, two weeks later, no one had stepped up to run for mayor. “I decided to do it because my wife was the [Director General] of Canton de Hatley for five years. I had a pretty good understanding of the municipal scene around the lake,” Roy explained. His commitment to the community and a desire to bring stability and fresh ideas to the town council drove him to take on the role.

Challenges and opportunities

Ayer’s Cliff faces several challenges, but Roy is optimistic about the town’s future. Financially, the town has seen improvements. “When I came in, we had about a 7 per cent reserve. Now we’re getting close to 24 per cent, which is a lot more comfortable,” Roy noted. This financial stability is crucial for undertaking significant projects without overburdening the town’s budget.

One of the upcoming challenges is the development on Tyler Street, which could add 100 to 200 new residents. “It will be an issue to make sure that they integrate well and that traffic and stuff like that works,” Roy admitted. However, he views this as a positive challenge, indicative of the town’s growth and appeal.

Roy also highlighted the need for a more diverse housing offer. “We have a lot of big houses for families, but we don’t have a lot of options for the […] kids that want to leave their parents’ house or the older people that just want a smaller place to live,” he said. This focus on housing diversity is critical for accommodating residents at different life stages and ensuring a balanced community.

Modernizing the water station

One of the most significant pieces of news for Ayer’s Cliff is the project to modernize the water station. “We were welcomed for a project to modernize the water station,” Roy shared with enthusiasm. This project is a cornerstone of Roy’s vision for the town’s infrastructure improvement. The modernization is expected to enhance the water quality and ensure a reliable supply for residents, reflecting Roy’s focus on long-term, impactful projects. “It’s very, very, very good news,” he emphasized.

Focus on long-term planning

Roy emphasized the importance of long-term planning. “We’re trying to focus on bigger things, like what we’re going to do with the church because we bought the church, so we have to come up with a project on that,” he said. The church project, along with a comprehensive review of zoning bylaws, are part of Roy’s strategy to prepare Ayer’s Cliff for future generations.

Community and volunteer spirit

One of the strengths of Ayer’s Cliff, according to Roy, is the strong sense of community and volunteerism. “There’s a lot of volunteers, there’s a lot of people who really like the town,” he says. This community spirit was evident when Roy posted an April Fool’s joke on Facebook about changing the town’s name to Hatley’s Cliff. “It shows how passionate people are about their town and its history,” he reflected.

Leadership style and future vision

Roy’s leadership style is characterized by a focus on stability and competence. “We put a lot of time to make sure that we have a good team of employees. We’re really, really happy with the team that we have,” he said. This emphasis on building a strong administrative team allows the council to focus on strategic issues rather than getting bogged down in day-to-day operations.

He also believes in making tough decisions for the greater good. “We raised the tax bill 30 per cent on the first year. We told people that it’s not because we want more money. It’s because you’ve not been paying a fair share for all those years,” Roy explained. This decision, though challenging, was crucial for ensuring the town’s financial health and gaining the respect of residents.

Addressing social issues

While Ayer’s Cliff is generally a family-oriented town with fewer visible social issues compared to larger urban areas, Roy acknowledges that challenges exist. “We don’t have people living on the street that we all know of,” he said. However, there are still residents facing financial difficulties, and the town supports them through initiatives like the food bank.

Looking ahead

As Roy looks to the future, he remains committed to preparing Ayer’s Cliff for the long term. “The main thing is basically that people have been involved. They’ve got deep roots. They are proud of their town. They want it to work,” he said. This deep-seated pride and commitment among residents make Roy’s job as mayor both rewarding and manageable.

Brookbury Hall celebrates 100 Years

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Brookbury Hall, a cornerstone of the Bury area community, is marking a significant milestone—its 100th anniversary. This occasion will be celebrated on Saturday, Aug. 3, starting at 1 p.m. The event promises an afternoon filled with stories, photos, memorabilia, games, and refreshments. Attendees will also have the opportunity to browse a book of memories, encapsulating the rich history of the hall and its significance to the community.

The celebration will take place at Brookbury Hall, located at 571 Brookbury Road, Bury. Brenda Bailey, the organization’s president, can be contacted for more information at 819-884-5984. For more information on the hall, visit: centrecommbrookbury.weebly.com

A century of community spirit

Debbie Everett, a long-time resident and community member, shared her personal connection to Brookbury Hall in a July 16 interview on the scene. “I grew up in Brookbury, just three houses up from here,” she reminisced. “We’ve always come to Brookbury Hall. It was built in 1919 for the Brookbury Women’s Institute (WI) by community members who donated wood, time, and effort.”

The hall served as a central meeting place for the WI, providing a dedicated space for their activities. Prior to the hall’s construction, meetings and events were held in members’ homes. The elementary school, which was located across the street, also utilized the hall for various functions, including graduations and plays.

Versatile venue for all occasions

Over the years, Brookbury Hall has been a versatile venue for numerous events. “We’ve had bridal showers, wedding receptions, card parties, birthday parties, and anniversary parties,” said Everett. “Anything that was community-oriented happened here.” The hall has also hosted fundraising events, such as mechouis and spaghetti dinners, to support its upkeep.

When the Brookbury WI disbanded in 1996 due to dwindling membership, the responsibility of maintaining the hall fell to a newly formed committee of dedicated community members, including Everett. “The Women’s Institute sold us the building for $1,” she explained. “If they hadn’t, it probably would have become a garage or been torn down.”

Steering the future

Today, the hall continues to be managed by a committee, with Brenda Bailey as the president and Austin Bailey as the treasurer. The committee meets twice a year to discuss maintenance and event planning. “We open the building in May and close it after the Halloween party at the end of October,” Everett noted, emphasizing that the hall is not insulated for winter use.

Despite the seasonal closure, Brookbury Hall remains a vital part of the community’s social fabric. It is frequently rented out for various events, including funeral luncheons. “We’ve had to increase the rental fee a bit due to inflation, but it’s still very affordable compared to city venues,” Everett said.

Commemorating 100 years

As part of the 100th anniversary celebration, the committee has been working diligently to gather memories and memorabilia. “We’re trying to get some pictures and going through the old minutes of the Brookbury WI, which are in the Bishop’s [University] archives,” Everett said. “It’s so interesting to read through them.”

The event will feature displays of historical photos, including bridal showers and wedding receptions held at the hall over the years. One notable story is of the WI’s effort to support a community member with muscular dystrophy in the 1960s. “They collected funds to buy him a television,” Everett recounted.

Another highlight will be the display of watches given to Hong Kong veterans from Brookbury after World War II. “My father and father-in-law were both Hong Kong veterans. The WI held a special supper for them and gave them watches,” she said. “I still have my dad’s watch, engraved and everything.”

A community invitation

Everett expressed hope that the anniversary celebration will draw a large turnout. “Everyone is welcome. It’s an opportunity to visit, reminisce, and look at different things we have on display,” she said. “Many people are still connected to this hall—it’s where their parents came, and even my grandfather helped build it.”

The event, initially planned for 2020, was postponed due to the pandemic. Now, the community is eager to come together and celebrate this historic milestone. “We’re just hoping to have a nice get-together, to visit and look at our own photos, and reminisce about it all,” Everett said.

Insights from a local retired veteran RCMP officer on presidential security and the Trump assassination attempt

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In light of the recent assassination attempt on former U.S. President Donald Trump, The Record reached out to Bob Farnham, a seasoned former officer of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) with extensive experience in VIP security, for his insights. Farnham, who served from 1959 to 1991, has been involved in numerous high-profile security operations, including presidential visits.

Despite being out of the service for over three decades, his memories of working on presidential visits remain vivid. His first assignment was during John F. Kennedy’s (JFK) visit, where he played a role in the operational planning. “I was certainly low man on the totem pole, but I was on the operational plan,” Farnham recounted.

He recalls a tense moment during President Nixon’s visit when a motorcycle officer crashed beside the presidential limousine. Farnham had to override Nixon’s order to stop, using the code “marmalade” to clear the area swiftly. “Nixon was hollering, stop, stop, stop. And we just left the area,” Farnham said.

This decision, driven by security protocols, highlights the often-split-second decisions made during such operations. Farnham notes that while the incident turned out to be a minor accident due to slippery conditions, it exemplifies the unpredictability of security work.

Farnham’s responsibilities extended to being a personal bodyguard for President Reagan and overseeing security on Parliament Hill during George Bush Jr.’s visit. His deep respect for the Secret Service and the collaboration between Canadian and American security agencies is evident.

He emphasized the importance of not jumping to conclusions in security incidents, a theme that resonates strongly with the current investigation into the Trump assassination attempt. “A lot of people are jumping to conclusions and, you know, why wasn’t this done? Why wasn’t that done?” Farnham remarked.

Farnham shared his experiences lecturing on VIP security across Canada, stressing that in security any person, place, or thing can be a potential threat. This principle underlines the complexity of security operations and the importance of thorough investigation before assigning blame.

He mentioned the recent reports of a man with a rifle on a rooftop during the Trump incident, urging caution and the need to verify such claims before drawing conclusions. “Well, until they talked to that man, what did he really see? Did he see the Secret Service with the rifle on the roof?” Farnham questioned.

Reflecting on his collaboration with the Secret Service, Farnham praised their professionalism and dedication. He recounted an incident during the G7 Summit in Montebello, Quebec, where they had to enforce a no-fly zone for model aircraft to ensure the safety of the delegates. “We put a no-fly, you can’t fly your model aircraft while in the shadow of Montebello,” Farnham explained. This anecdote underscores the meticulous planning and preventive measures taken during high-profile events.

Farnham acknowledged the difficulty in protecting individuals willing to die for their cause. He drew parallels with “suicide by cop” scenarios, emphasizing that such threats are challenging to mitigate. The recent attempt on Trump’s life, with shots narrowly missing the former president, is a stark reminder of the ever-present dangers faced by public figures. “If they’re willing to die for the cause or their beliefs, it’s pretty hard to stop them,” Farnham stated.

Discussing the video of Trump during the incident, Farnham noted that while Trump’s response might seem unconventional, security protocols must adapt to the protected individual’s actions. He explained that security personnel cannot forcibly restrict the movements of their protectees, highlighting the complexities of real-time decision-making in such scenarios. “You can’t grab onto him and hold him. No, you don’t,” Farnham clarified, emphasizing that the protectee’s autonomy is always respected.

Farnham expressed his respect for the media’s role in disseminating information but cautioned against premature conclusions. He recounted instances where misinformation was deliberately seeded to identify trustworthy reporters, illustrating the delicate balance between media relations and security operations. “I gave information to the media, and it was a line of BS, and said, now don’t report this. That was to just weed them out to see who I could trust,” Farnham said.

Farnham shared a story about an incident involving snow falling from a hangar roof at the Ottawa airport during a VIP visit. The heat from the hangar melted the snow, which then fell onto a limousine. Although no one was hurt, it underscored Farnham’s point that anything can be a potential threat. “If that had hit the VIP or any person, it would have done damage, I’m sure,” he remarked.

Reflecting on his career, Farnham mentioned receiving a photograph from the Canadian Press featuring Queen Elizabeth, Prime Minister Brian Mulroney, and himself, along with a certificate of appreciation from the Secret Service, symbolizing the recognition of his contributions to security. “They said, I hope we don’t get in trouble. This is kind of a press photograph, but we’re giving it to you. As a memory,” Farnham recalled.

Farnham also touched on the role of social media in spreading unverified information, cautioning that in the rush to be first, facts can be misrepresented. He again urged the public to wait for official reports before forming opinions on incidents like the Trump assassination attempt. “People are so hungry for information that stuff gets circulated that’s not verified,” Farnham noted.

Drawing parallels to the JFK assassination, Farnham noted that some people still believe in multiple shooters, illustrating how conspiracy theories can persist without solid evidence. He stressed the importance of thorough investigations to dispel such myths and provide clear, factual accounts of events.

“There [are] still people that believe that John F. Kennedy was shot by multiple shooters. But until everything is proven, facts have been [ascertained], and everybody has been interviewed… the FBI will do a good job investigating it,” Farnham emphasized.

Farnham discussed the technical aspects of VIP security, such as the variance in factory-loaded ammunition and its impact on precision shooting. He praised the skill of RCMP sharpshooters, highlighting the level of expertise required in such roles.

He described how RCMP sharpshooters at 200 yards could place ten shots so accurately that they could be covered with a toonie, emphasizing the importance of reliable equipment and skilled personnel in security operations. “Trump’s head was exposed, certainly, and thank God the shooter was a bad shot,” he added.

In closing, Farnham reiterated the importance of not rushing to judgment. He urged the public and media to allow the FBI and other investigating agencies to complete their work. His insights, drawn from a lifetime of service, provide a sobering reminder of the complexities involved in protecting public figures and the need for careful, measured responses to security threats.

 “Not a unique situation,” farmers’ union says

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Dean Powell, a Waterville dairy farmer, has been embroiled in a legal battle for over three years due to alleged faulty barn construction that has devastated his livestock and finances. Powell claims that a contractor installed incorrect ventilation and stalls, resulting in the deaths of 151 cows at his farm, Broadvista.

“The stalls were too big for my breed of cattle,” Powell explained to The Record in an interview at his farm June 18. “My cows would get stuck, break their backs and hips. It was a disaster.”

Powell said he initially sought assistance from the Union des Producteurs Agricoles (UPA), but was told there was insufficient evidence to take action. “The president of the UPA said they didn’t want to open a can of worms,” Powell recounted.

In an attempt to resolve the issues, Powell approached the contractor, who he claims frivolously suggested he burn the barn down. “You won’t make the same mistakes twice.”

Powell decided to take legal action, seeking $1.6 million in damages for repairs alone. However, he has faced continuous obstacles. “They offered me $60,000. The contractor said he’d go bankrupt and start anew for $2,500. It’s infuriating,” Powell said.

The engineering firm responsible for the barn design has also been uncooperative, according to Powell. “They keep demanding $10,000 for expert reports, but they won’t provide the reports,” Powell stated. Despite multiple reports, Powell insisted none have been made available to him or his lawyer. Powell ultimately commissioned a report of his own from an animal welfare and comfort specialist.

Adding to the complexity, Powell has encountered significant challenges with his bank. “My bank made me get another job to pay off the debt from the repairs. I went into construction and saw even more mistakes by engineers,” Powell said. He mentioned instances of poorly constructed barns and leaking manure pits as examples.

Powell’s financial struggles have forced him to put his farm up for sale. “The bank said if I didn’t sell, they’d foreclose. I followed every rule, but they messed up,” he said. Powell’s mother even dipped into her retirement savings to help him buy cows to continue operations.

The involvement of a bank-appointed advisor further complicated matters. “He was supposed to help, but instead, he pushed to sell the entire farm, not just the 100 acres we agreed upon. He wants to make more money off the sale,” Powell alleged.

Powell said he has reached out to government officials, including Compton-Stanstead MP Marie-Claude Bibeau and provincial Minister of Agriculture André Lamontagne, but has received no assistance. “This all stems from their rules. There’s a lot of money that should be reimbursed,” Powell asserted.

Powell emphasized it is a broader issue facing many farmers. If everybody got together, banks could be sued for millions. “The higher-ups are breaking the rules, and no one is holding them accountable,” he said.

Despite the ongoing battle, Powell remains determined to seek justice and prevent similar occurrences for other farmers. “It’s unacceptable,” he stated.

Consultant Report – problems found in new barn at Broadvista Farm

Provided by Powell, a 2023 report by Steve Adam, an agricultural consultant specializing in animal comfort and welfare, revealed significant issues with the housing and ventilation systems at Broadvista Farm’s new barn. The report, based on a visit conducted by Adam and Peter Boerson on May 20, 2021, highlights several critical problems that potentially contributed to the loss of 30 cows (at the time of inspection) since the barn’s opening in August 2019.

Housing issues

The report outlines that the dimensions of the cow stalls (logettes) are not in accordance with the standard requirements for Jersey cows, leading to discomfort and injury. According to Dr. Neil Anderson’s formulas, the ideal stall dimensions for Jersey cows should be 102 inches for the total distance facing a wall and 184 inches for face-to-face distance. However, the actual measurements at Broadvista Farm fell short by 6 inches for the wall-facing distance, which could impede the cows’ ability to rise comfortably.

“The most significant issue is the length of the lying surface and the positioning of the brisket board,” Adam stated. “The cows advance too far forward, reducing the space in front of the wall necessary for a proper forward lunge. When attempting to rise, cows often get obstructed by the neck rail, which can lead to failed attempts and injuries.”

Additionally, the height of the neck rail was found to be too high, at 45-49.5 inches instead of the recommended 42 inches. This misalignment forces cows to strain their backs against the rail, causing distress and potentially leading to physical harm. “These adjustments are crucial for ensuring the cows’ comfort and preventing injuries,” Adam emphasized in the report.

Stall design flaws

The stall design, initially intended for Holstein cows, lacks adequate clearance for Jersey cows, particularly at the rear where a minimum of 24 inches is necessary to prevent the cows’ spines from contacting metal parts. During the inspection, it was noted that some stalls only provided 18 inches of clearance, posing a risk of injury.

Adam noted, “The rear clearance of some stalls is insufficient, which could cause injuries to the cows’ spines. Moreover, the lack of uniformity in stall heights exacerbates this problem, making it challenging to find a height that works for all cows.”

Ventilation problems

The report also identified critical ventilation issues that impact the barn’s air quality and the cows’ overall health. The barn uses a modular ventilation system with automatic controls for winter and a tunnel ventilation system for summer. However, the current setup is inadequate for providing sufficient airflow, especially during hot weather.

“During our visit, we observed that the barn’s ventilation system was not achieving the necessary airspeed to cool the cows effectively,” Adam explained. “For example, the theoretical airspeed was only 162 feet per minute, far below the 300 feet per minute required to mitigate heat stress.”

Adam’s report suggested that the barn’s summer ventilation could achieve 75 air changes per hour, theoretically sufficient. However, the actual airflow measurements showed significant discrepancies, with some areas receiving as little as 10 feet per minute. This inadequate airflow results in poor cooling and increased heat stress for the cows, evidenced by respiratory rates exceeding 60 breaths per minute during the visit.

Recommendations

To address these issues, the report recommends several measures, including adjusting the stall dimensions, lowering the neck rails, and improving the ventilation system. Adam also suggested consulting the equipment provider to rectify the automatic control parameters for the ventilation system.

“Improving the stall design and ventilation will significantly enhance the cows’ welfare and potentially reduce the mortality rate,” Adam concluded.

A conversation with the contractor

The contractor in question spoke in general terms to The Record, not about the case before the courts, but about issues faced when dealing with farm construction.

He explained some of the typical issues encountered in his line of work. “Well, sometimes when working with old buildings, you need to reinforce them.” He emphasized the importance of considering the structural integrity of old buildings. “With old buildings, there are more factors to consider, like ceiling height,” he elaborated.

The conversation then moved to the modifications commonly made to agricultural buildings. “We often install bunkers, silos… these modifications help farmers work more efficiently,” the contractor said. When asked about potential problems following the purchase of services, he provided a detailed explanation, mentioning issues such as water leakage and other unforeseen problems.

“Young cows… in free stables… they have never been in barns… it can cause many problems… you need a good plan to start with,” the contractor explained. He stressed the importance of proper planning and schematics for efficient operations.

Ventilation was another topic discussed. “And with ventilation, we can calculate that… there are data points that calculate air movement,” he said, pointing out that the costs can vary. “It depends on how much someone is willing to pay. Sometimes it’s too expensive. So, we work within the client’s budget.”

The Record asked about past issues with farmers, “Have you had problems with farmers before, issues where they were unhappy with your work?”

The contractor admitted there had been some issues, referencing the labour shortage and unforeseen issues that can delay a project.

“Not a unique situation,” says UPA-Estrie President

In an interview July 11, Michel Brien, President of the Fédération de l’UPA-Estrie, discussed the numerous issues farmers face with construction and renovation projects. The conversation covered a range of problems that farmers encounter, with Brien stressing that the discussion was not a specific judgment on any particular case.

“Yes, there are frequent problems,” Brien acknowledged when asked about construction issues on farms. He emphasized that mistakes in construction are not rare. “Producers often have to hire lawyers to take on these companies,” he said, explaining that companies sometimes shut down to avoid accountability, leaving farmers with few options for recourse. “It’s not a unique situation,” Brien insisted, referring to Powell’s claims.

Brien elaborated on various construction and equipment issues, citing examples of poorly installed milking robots. “There were robots that never functioned properly,” he said. “Farmers are often left without support and have to engage lawyers themselves.”

Discussing the reliability of suppliers, Brien mentioned that there are both good and mediocre ones. “Some suppliers acknowledge and correct their mistakes, while others are less cooperative,” he said. He recounted his own experience with farm renovations that did not meet expectations.

The conversation also touched on equipment issues. “There are times when equipment is not compliant,” Brien noted. He shared an instance where machinery parts were not up to standard, requiring intervention to correct the issue. “Some companies are good and will replace parts for free, but others are more independent and less helpful.”

Brien described the challenge of dealing with construction errors, whether in buildings or equipment. “It’s not uncommon for there to be errors that need correcting,” he said. He gave an example of a farmer who bought a new baler that repeatedly broke down. “It’s disheartening to pay a high price for equipment that doesn’t work half the time,” he said.

When asked about legal options for farmers, Brien confirmed that litigation is often the only viable route. “It’s almost the only option,” he said. He cited a case involving a supplier in Montérégie with two companies—one for robotics and one general. When issues arose with the robotics company, it shut down, leaving farmers without recourse.

Brien underscored the importance of vigilance during construction projects. “It’s crucial for farmers to monitor construction closely,” he advised. “Often, those who are most successful are the ones who ensure everything is done correctly.”

He also mentioned the need for farmers to stay vigilant about equipment quality. “Sometimes, equipment defects are at fault,” he said, highlighting the difficulty of holding companies accountable. “It’s tough, especially for new businesses trying to update their equipment and facilities.”

Brien briefly discussed Powell’s poorly designed stalls and his loss of over 100 cattle. “The injuries were frequent because the stalls were not properly adapted,” he explained. “It’s not something that happens overnight, but it accumulates over time, leading to significant losses.”

Brien concluded with a call for increased awareness and vigilance among farmers. “It’s sad, but these issues are quite common,” he said. “Farmers must stay on top of things to avoid these costly mistakes.”

The interview shed light on the pervasive problems within the agricultural construction sector and underscored the need for greater oversight and support for farmers. “We need to be vigilant and ensure that everything is done correctly,” Brien emphasized. “It’s not just about protecting our investments but also about ensuring the well-being of our livestock and the sustainability of our farms.”

Ontarian racing pigeon discovered in Hatley backyard

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In an unusual turn of events, a Hatley resident, Skylar Williams, discovered a racing pigeon from Ontario in his backyard. The bird, which has been temporarily named “Graham Cracker” by Williams’ four-year-old son, was initially spotted near the family’s parked boat.

The pigeon was found around 4 p.m. in the afternoon of July 4, said Williams in a July 8 interview with The Record. It has distinctive green and black tags on each leg, marking it as a racing pigeon. Williams attempted to contact the bird’s owner using the number on the tag through Ontario’s Canadian Racing Pigeon Union (CRPU), but was initially unsuccessful. He later managed to identify a potential owner from Ottawa, who confirmed that the bird had been used in racing events.

Racing pigeons are typically released to compete in races, with the first bird to return to the drop-off point declared the winner. After the races, these pigeons are usually kept for future competitions. However, this particular bird seemed to have been abandoned, as the original owner seems to have indicated they no longer want it.

Currently, the pigeon is residing with Williams’ chickens and appears to be getting along well with them. “Right now, he’s in with my chickens, and he gets along with them just fine,” Williams said. He has been feeding the pigeon alongside his other birds, using a container filled with bird feed.

Williams is considering keeping the pigeon as a pet if the original owner does not reclaim it. “If I can’t get a hold of the actual owner, I might keep him as a pet or release him on a cooler day so he can find his way back,” he explained. The bird has become a temporary member of the family, with even Williams’ children and wife having petted it.

More from the CRPU

The Record reached out to the CRPU for more information and received a response over the phone after a few days from its treasurer, Al Gauvin.

The brief July 10 interview revealed that pigeons sometimes get disoriented during races and may end up far from their intended destination. Gauvin mentioned, “There are one-loss races, which people pay money to enter their birds in, and sometimes those birds get disoriented or picked up.”

He expressed his willingness to help and suggested that the resident keep feeding the pigeon to help it regain its strength, hoping it would eventually continue its journey.

En lieu of answering more questions at the time, Gauvin suggested The Record obtain a “new member package” containing detailed information about pigeon racing.

According to the CRPU’s website, if you find a stray pigeon, first assess its health. If the pigeon appears healthy, you do not necessarily need to catch it. Sometimes, pigeons are simply resting before continuing their journey. In such cases, you can provide fresh water and grains (such as rice or bird seed, but not bread) to help the pigeon regain its strength.

If the pigeon is wounded or exhausted, it is important to capture it to protect it from predators. Place the bird in a cardboard box with holes or a cage, and provide fresh water and grains. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, a wounded or exhausted pigeon may not survive.

Racing pigeons have a band on one of their legs, containing numbers, letters, and the year. If the band has “CU” on it, it was issued by the Canadian Racing Pigeon Union (CRPU). You can use the CRPU website (www.crpu.ca) to trace the owner.

Follow the steps in the wizard to obtain the owner’s name and phone number. The owner is responsible for assisting you with the bird. If the bird is far from home, the owner may ask you to release it a few kilometres from your home, hoping it will return to its loft.

If a pigeon has no band, contact your local humane society for help. If the owner does not contact you within 24 hours of being notified, inform the CRPU, and they will try to find a local pigeon fancier to pick up the bird.

The CRPU says they are dedicated to the welfare of all lost birds.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The University of Sherbrooke (UdeS) has recently come under fire for its handling of a pro-Palestinian camp set up on its main campus. The controversy has drawn responses from various university officials and student groups, highlighting issues of equity, security, and freedom of expression.

The camp, which had been present since May, was established by students advocating for the university to take a stand on the Palestinian conflict. Despite initial tolerance from the university, tensions rose over the group’s continued presence and their failure to adhere to university regulations.

On July 2, the university notified the camp members that regulatory adjustments had been made, requiring the removal of tarps and wooden structures and the return of any university-owned equipment. The university reiterated its zero-tolerance policy for messages inciting hate. However, the camp members did not comply with these directives.

“To maintain a space of equity, security, and respectful dialogue on our campus, we had to act,” stated Professor Pierre Cossette, Rector of UdeS, in a recent release. On July 4, a team removed university-owned materials and dismantled the non-compliant structures and signage. “We respect our community members’ right to defend causes they believe in, but we must preserve an equitable and safe environment for all,” Cossette added.

In a recent communication to the university community, Cossette emphasized the university’s commitment to impartiality and maintaining academic freedom. “The latest demands from the protesters, received on July 1, did not advance discussions. These demands contradict our mission, which requires rigorous impartiality and the maintenance of academic freedom,” he explained.

The camp members’ demands include the university taking a position on whether a genocide is occurring in Palestine and condemning federal and provincial governments’ investments. Despite the university’s openness, maintaining 14 commitments, including accelerated admission processes and scholarship programs for Palestinian students, the administration stressed that certain demands could not be met.

“The university remains sensitive to the suffering of community members affected by the Gaza conflict and supports an immediate ceasefire and rapid resolution,” Cossette affirmed.

The university’s actions have sparked criticism from student associations. On July 8, the Federation of University of Sherbrooke Students (FEUS) and the Graduate Student Association (REMDUS) condemned the university’s strategy to end negotiations and resort to what they describe as repression.

Gabriel Lemelin, External Affairs Coordinator for FEUS, criticized the university’s actions: “The university, which has recognized the right to freedom of expression throughout the conflict, cannot just change its stance and act arbitrarily. Students, who partly fund the institution, have the right to express themselves. This right is protected by the Charters, and no court has validated the dismantling of the camp in this manner.”

Nicolas Dionne, Director of Political and External Affairs for REMDUS, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the camp remained peaceful and compliant with directives. “The actions of the university’s security service not only broke the protesters’ materials but also illegally seized items belonging to camp members and other organizations. Such actions were unjustifiable and regrettable, especially since discussion should have been the strategy used.”

In response to the university’s actions, FEUS and REMDUS called for a “Sit-In” on July 10 at the main campus to protest what they see as a violation of rights. “We want to signal to the university administration that rights cannot be violated. The rector’s concern for the university’s image is actually tarnished by these actions,” said Lemelin in the release.

As the situation unfolds, the university’s administration remains firm in its stance, while student groups continue to advocate for dialogue and what they consider respect for freedom of expression. The coming days are likely to see further developments as both sides seek a resolution to the ongoing dispute.

Stolen Minton United Church sign found and returned one year later

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In a surprising turn of events, the six-foot-wide wooden sign that had adorned the Minton United Church in Hatley Township for over a decade has been found and returned to its rightful place.

The sign, crafted by local artist Trevor McKinven, was stolen in June 2023, leaving the community baffled and saddened. Now, after more than a year of uncertainty, the sign’s recovery has brought relief and joy to the church and its supporters. The Record spoke with McKinven and Wendall Conner, church caretaker, on the scene July 9.

Theft in the night

The disappearance of the sign was first noticed on the morning of June 3, 2023. Brian Conner, along with his father Wendall, who is a member of the church board, discovered that the sign had been removed from its posts during the night. “It was a shock to all of us,” said Wendall Conner. “We decided not to file a police report, hoping it might turn up on its own.”

McKinven, who had created the sign about ten years prior, was deeply affected by the theft. “It felt like a personal attack on the community and the church’s history,” he recalled. The theft required significant planning and effort, as the sign was heavy and securely mounted. “They must have had tools and a plan. It wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment thing.”

A year of searching and fundraising

Despite their initial hope that the sign would reappear, the community soon realized they might need to replace it. McKinven, who had experienced the theft of his artwork before, took a proactive approach. He organized a fundraiser, selling high-quality prints of his paintings of the church’s interior to cover the costs of creating a new sign. “I wanted to turn my frustration into something positive for the community,” he explained.

For over a year, there were no leads. The sign’s disappearance remained a mystery, despite the efforts of McKinven, the Conner family, and other community members who scoured the area and posted about the missing sign on social media.

The unexpected discovery

Recently, the mystery took an unexpected turn. A contractor working on a house in Magog noticed a large wooden sign leaning against a shed. He inquired with the new homeowner, who had bought the house about a year ago and claimed the sign was already there when he moved in.

Recognizing that it might be something important, the contractor mentioned it to his daughter, who works in North Hatley. She immediately recalled the missing sign from conversations in town a year prior.

The contractor’s daughter visited Wendall Conner and told him about her father’s discovery. “She showed up one evening after supper and said her father had found something that belonged to us,” Conner recounted. “At first, I didn’t know what she was talking about, but then it clicked.”

Returning the sign

Arrangements were quickly made to retrieve the sign. “Brian and I went to pick it up the next day,” said Conner. “It was a relief to see it again.” Despite some minor damage from being tossed around, the sign was largely intact. McKinven plans to touch it up before re-mounting it securely. “I’m going to add some new touches to it, incorporating more of the church’s interior details,” he shared. “The interior is so beautiful, and I want to reflect that in the new design.”

The discovery of the sign has been a source of joy and excitement for the community. “It’s amazing how it all happened,” Conner said. “We were gearing up to make a new sign, and then this one just showed up out of nowhere. It’s a bit of a miracle.”

Community reaction

The return of the sign has been met with widespread relief and celebration. “It’s like a piece of our history has come back,” said McKinven. “The church is more than just a building; it’s a symbol of our community’s resilience and spirit.”

For the Conner family and other church members, the sign’s return is a testament to the power of community and perseverance. “We never gave up hope,” Wendall Conner remarked. “And now, seeing it back where it belongs, it feels like a weight has been lifted off our shoulders.”

Looking ahead

With the sign back in its rightful place, the Minton United Church is preparing for its upcoming service on July 21. McKinven is working on the final touches to ensure the sign is ready to be re-installed. “I’m excited to see it back up,” he said. “It’s going to be a great day for the church and the community.”

As the church prepares for the service, the community is reflecting on the past year’s events and the lessons learned. “It’s been a journey, but we’re stronger for it,” said Conner. “We’ve seen the power of coming together and supporting each other. That’s what this church is all about.” For more information on the church’s upcoming service, contact Mead Baldwin at: meadbaldwin@gmail.com

Murder Mystery Dinner comes to the Piggery this weekend

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A thrilling and delicious evening awaits as the highly anticipated Murder Mystery Dinner event is set to take place on July 13 at The Piggery in North Hatley. The event will begin at 6 p.m., offering an engaging show coupled with a sumptuous buffet meal for a ticket price of $30 per person.

The themed dinner, titled “Murder at the Baking Olympics,” will feature countries from around the world competing in a premier culinary showdown. Participants will face off in a heated contest to earn the prestigious international title of “Meilleur Ouvrier Boulangier” (Best Baker).

Tickets for this event can be purchased by contacting 819-842-2431 or via email at: piggerymedia@gmail.com

Deep dive with organizer Mead Baldwin

Organizer Mead Baldwin, who also regularly plays the detective in these events, shared insights into how the evening unfolds during an interview with The Record July 8. “We usually have about 10 to 12 actors, all performing improv,” Baldwin explained. “Each actor portrays a character for the entire night, complete with name tags and photos on the wall for easy identification. It helps the audience keep track of who’s who, especially since the characters can get pretty involved.”

The format involves actors mingling with the dinner guests, each revealing secrets about their characters or others. “For example, one character might be blackmailing another,” Baldwin said. “This keeps the audience guessing and engaged. It’s fascinating to watch the interactions and see how people respond to the evolving storyline.”

After an hour or so, the plot thickens when a character is ‘murdered.’ “Each actor then has a new secret for the second part of the evening,” Baldwin noted. “And by the end, there’s always a detective, which is me in this case, who helps solve the mystery.”

Baldwin, who will be portraying a version of detective Armand Gamache from Louise Penny’s Three Pines, enjoys the complexity and engagement these events bring. “It’s all about creating an immersive experience,” he said. “We want our guests to feel like they’re part of the story, solving the mystery alongside the characters.”

This year’s theme is the ‘Baking Olympics,’ a playful twist on the upcoming Summer Olympics in Paris. “We have chefs from different countries competing with their dishes,” Baldwin said. “For instance, there’s [a chef] representing Greece with her baklava and a French chef competing with his dessert. Each chef has their own story and motivations, adding layers to the mystery.”

The actors and organizers have clearly put a lot of thought into the names and characters to avoid any legal issues. “Our host this time is someone called Martha Stuart—spelled S-T-U-A-R-T,” Baldwin shared with a laugh. “We also have a character named Gordon Rambo, among others. It’s a fun way to play with familiar names without stepping on any toes.”

Baldwin reminisced about past events and characters, including notable local figures like Bishop’s’ Wade Lynch, who played Queen Elizabeth during a royal-themed mystery. “He loves doing Queen Elizabeth,” Baldwin said, chuckling. “It was totally crazy. We’ve had Queen Elizabeth come to Ayer’s Cliff for her 90th birthday, where I played Prince Philip. It was a blast.”

Fundraising is a significant aspect of these events, with proceeds often going to various community causes. “We’ve done mysteries for Grace Village, the refugee committee in Ayer’s Cliff, and even for a museum in Cookshire,” Baldwin said. “These events are a fun way to raise funds and bring the community together. It’s great to see familiar faces return year after year, eager to solve the latest mystery.”

Despite taking a break during COVID, the murder mystery dinners have made a strong comeback. “We had to pause during the pandemic, which I hated,” Baldwin admitted. “But we’re back at it, and people come every year to try and solve the crime. It’s become a bit of a tradition.”

The dinner theatre setup is designed to immerse the audience fully. “We sell about 80 to 90 tickets per event,” Baldwin explained. “We set up tables for dinner, with each table having a reserved spot for one of the actors. The actors meander around, introducing themselves and interacting with the guests. It makes for a very dynamic and engaging evening.”

The audience plays a crucial role in the event, as they are tasked with solving the mystery. “At some point during the evening, we set up an evidence table,” Baldwin said. “On the evidence table, you’ll find clues like bloody knives, secret journals, and other items pertinent to the mystery. The guests use these clues, along with the information they gather from the actors, to solve the crime.”

Baldwin takes pride in the challenge the event presents. “It’s not easy to solve the mystery,” he said. “You can’t just point at someone and say they did it. You need to figure out who the murderer is, how they committed the crime, and why. The motive is crucial.”

As the evening progresses, guests are given solution sheets to fill out. “After the murder is solved [in the detective’s mind] on stage, we give the audience some time to write down their guesses,” Baldwin explained. “We then collect the sheets and take a few minutes to sort through them. Finally, we announce the winners and reveal the true killer in a dramatic scene.”

Baldwin emphasized the importance of creating a challenging and engaging experience. “We don’t want it to be too easy,” he said. “The actors’ job is to make people think they might be the murderer, to throw them off. It’s always fun to see how many people guess wrong.”

The murder mystery dinner theatre events have a history of creative and varied themes. “We’ve done all sorts of themes,” Baldwin said. “From high school reunions and weddings to funerals and medical conventions. Last year, we had an antique art auction theme, and people were searching for valuable antiques, including a special chair supposedly used by Queen Elizabeth and her sister Mary during a visit to Canada in the 1930s.”

The event has also seen contributions from various local talents. “We’ve had a lot of local actors participate over the years,” Baldwin said. “Gordon Lambie, Shanna Bernier, and Claude Charron have all been involved. It’s a great way to showcase local talent and bring the community together.”

Baldwin and his team have been organizing these events in the Townships for the last 14 years. “It’s become a beloved tradition,” Baldwin said. “People look forward to it every summer. We started as church fundraisers and now we’re all over the place, including the Piggery Theatre.”

Tickets for this Saturday’s event are still available, with the Piggery Theatre and Baldwin encouraging those interested to join for an unforgettable evening. “It’s fun playing a dead body,” Baldwin added with a grin. “And it’s even more fun watching everyone try to solve the mystery. The dinner, the laughs, the mystery—it’s all part of the experience.”