William Crooks

Courtesy Angus MacKinnon
Flames consume the McKinnon family barn in Barnston in the early hours of June 26, sending a glow into the night sky before the structure collapsed

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A devastating barn fire in the early hours of June 26 has claimed the lives of more than 160 animals at the MacKinnon family dairy farm near Barnston, causing extensive damage to a landmark agricultural operation rooted in the Eastern Townships for generations.

The Ayer’s Cliff Fire Department received the emergency call at 2:02 a.m. and arrived to find the large dairy barn completely engulfed in flames. “Upon arriving on scene, the building was fully evolved from one end to the other,” confirmed Ayer’s Cliff Fire Battalion Chief Dany Brus in an interview. “The owners were able to save a few cattle, calves mainly, but it was too dangerous to go inside the building.”

Farm owner Angus MacKinnon was alerted to the fire by his brother just after 2 a.m. “I came out of the house, and the building was completely engulfed in flames,” he said. “There was nothing we could do.”

The fire consumed the entire main barn, resulting in the loss of approximately 100 Holstein milking cows and 65 bred and soon-to-be-bred heifers. “We were able to save about a dozen calves who are housed in hutches outside the building,” said MacKinnon. “We loaded them into our cattle trailer and moved them away from the building for their safety.”

Firefighters from multiple departments were called in to assist. Brus confirmed response teams from Ayer’s Cliff, Stanstead, North Hatley, Coaticook, and Stanstead Township participated in the operation. “We never ran out of water,” he said. “We were drafting from a pond only about a kilometre away.” Emergency crews remained on scene for over seven hours, leaving around 9:30 a.m.

No injuries were reported, but paramedics remained on standby throughout the morning. “It went well. It wasn’t an easy fire,” said Brus. “The McKinnon family is well known in the region. This is a big loss for them—it’s also a big loss for the community.”

The cause of the fire remains under investigation, but MacKinnon suspects it may have been electrical. “We have an electrical monitoring system, and there was a spike at 1:35 a.m. on one of the entrance panels,” he explained. “There aren’t many motors working at that time of night, so we think that may have been the root cause.”

The damage extends beyond the building and livestock. MacKinnon said one of the four concrete silos on the property is still smouldering. “There’s fire in that, and I have 400 tons of silage in there,” he said. “That will probably take the next six months to burn through because they have no access to it.”

The destroyed barn held not only livestock but also decades of memories for the McKinnon family. “That was the barn I was brought up in,” said MacKinnon. “All the childhood memories with my family are in that barn. And my kids’ memories are there also now. That’s all gone up in smoke.”

Despite the loss, the McKinnons are determined to rebuild. “We’re well insured, and the next generation was in place to take over the farm over the next four, five, six years,” MacKinnon said. “The master plan is to keep the eighth generation here and going.”

Community support has already begun to pour in. “We’re very, very thankful for the outpouring of support we’ve had from the community—phone calls and notes and texts of support and commiseration,” he said. “We’ve been here for a long time. We’re very involved in the community, and we’re touched by the emotional support we’ve had in the last number of hours.”

Though the future will bring many challenges, MacKinnon remains characteristically resolute. “Farmers are optimistic,” he said. “We like looking ahead, not back.”

July 8 meeting to finalize tough budget decisions

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Eastern Townships School Board (ETSB) is facing challenging financial decisions as it prepares to implement approximately $6.5 million in budget cuts mandated by the provincial government. At its June 25 Council of Commissioners meeting, presided over by Chair Michael Murray, commissioners and administrators laid out the difficult measures ahead. They confirmed that final budget resolutions—including school-level allocations—will be formally adopted at a special public meeting on July 8.

“These cuts are overwhelming and extremely preoccupying,” Murray said. “We have had only days to adjust to these cuts. The choices imposed are not merely difficult, but agonizing.”

Director General Kandy Mackey echoed Murray’s concerns and described the planning process as “nothing short of daunting.” She noted that the board received the provincial parameters so late that many staffing decisions for the upcoming school year had already been made. “Since receiving the parameters, we’ve worked nonstop to explore every possible avenue to meet this target with care and strategy,” Mackey told commissioners.

One significant adjustment already proposed is the freezing of school and vocational centre surpluses for the 2025–26 school year, with any deficits to be reimbursed gradually at 2–5 per cent annually. This decision, part of a resolution on resource allocation principles, helps the board manage shortfalls but restricts individual schools’ fiscal flexibility.

In the public question period, local teachers and union representatives expressed frustration at being excluded from primary budget discussions. An Appalachian Teachers’ Association (ATA) representative described the board’s approach to health and safety funding as “deplorable,” urging greater consultation with staff in making tough service cuts. “Why were teachers not included in discussions about which services to cut?” he said. Murray replied by pointing to staff representation on governing boards and encouraged proactive engagement at that level: “Your representatives at every governing board need to be forthcoming, need to be proactive.”

The board also fielded suggestions to hire an external efficiency consultant. While Murray acknowledged the potential benefits, he cautioned that collective agreements severely limit the ability to reduce personnel. “Most of the efficiency experts I’ve had the pleasure—or otherwise—of dealing with start by looking to cut staff,” he said. “We are very reluctant to entertain any thought of staff reductions.”

Murray additionally warned that rising legal and consultant fees—particularly for grievances and health and safety compliance—are channelling funds away from student supports. “We’re unfortunately trapped in a system that is expensive, and that we certainly don’t want to pursue further,” he stated. The implication: cutting administrative overhead may yield less savings than anticipated.

A range of programs stand to be significantly impacted. Extracurricular transportation—such as school buses for sports teams—nutrition support, and specialized staff for vulnerable students are all on the chopping block. Murray noted community groups have already stepped in to help cover some shortfalls: “We’ve had to sacrifice things like buses for high school sports teams, but people are stepping up.”

Major construction projects across the board—such as building upgrades at Parkview Elementary, Sherbrooke Elementary, Richmond Regional High and others—were deferred until the July 8 meeting pending bid results and additional information. Approved projects include adult education renovations at the ETSB board office and enhancements at Lennoxville Elementary.

Outside the financial-heavy agenda, commissioners recognized several positive developments. They celebrated recent graduation ceremonies, community-driven fundraisers (including a $6,000 drive for Pervana’s Garden at Prince Elizabeth Elementary), and vocational training successes. A $2,500 gift from the Christian Vachon Foundation to Farnham Elementary was also commended.

The Board marked the upcoming retirement of long-time Instructional Technology and Pedagogical Services Director Eva Lettner after 33 years of service. Mackey described Lettner’s enduring legacy: “love, laughter, and learning,” with a significant impact on English‑language education in Quebec.

Other administrative advancements at the June 25 meeting included changes to signing authorities in several schools, updating the board’s ethics code, and awarding a $179,868 contract for employee assistance and telemedicine services.

Despite the financial strain, Murray commended the professionalism and collective spirit of ETSB staff and communities. “At this more difficult time, every member of ETSB can take pride in one thing—the team spirit and willingness to go the extra distance that’s been displayed at every level.”

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What parents and teachers need to know

July 8 public meeting: This special session will finalize the 2025–26 budget. Parents, teachers, and community members are encouraged to attend to observe or participate and give comment.

Key cuts under review:

• Freezing of surpluses and gradual deficit reimbursement
• Potential elimination of extracurricular bus services, nutrition programs, and support staff
• Possible postponement of school upgrades pending budget approval

Staff input: Board officials stress that teachers should engage actively in governing-board discussions, as union consultations were limited during initial cuts.

Community involvement: Groups are already volunteering to bridge service gaps; ongoing collaboration will be essential during implementation.

A petition against the provincial government’s proposed budget cuts was launched on Wednesday and is available on the National Assembly website.

William Crooks
Mary Ann McCarron, Janet Watson, Nancy Gosselin, and Ann Louise Carson pose with the CFUW Sherbrooke & District donation cheque at Moisson Estrie on June 25

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW) Sherbrooke & District made a meaningful contribution to Moisson Estrie on June 25, donating $2,285 raised through grassroots initiatives. The presentation took place at Moisson Estrie’s headquarters on 10e Avenue Sud in Sherbrooke, where CFUW members also received a tour of the facility.

“We’re basically a group of ladies who just want to make the world better, largely through education,” said CFUW Sherbrooke & District President Ann Louise Carson on the scene. She explained that while the group focuses on promoting access to education, it also chooses a charity each year to support through various fundraising activities. This year, the members voted to direct their efforts toward addressing food insecurity.

The money was raised through simple community activities—selling books for 50 cents each, organizing events, and gathering donations during group outings. “Whatever we make, we give away,” said Carson. “And this year, there’s been a lot of awareness about food insecurity.”

CFUW members were particularly impressed with Moisson Estrie’s regional reach and operational efficiency. “They cover all the Townships,” Carson said, adding that the organization’s impact aligns well with the CFUW’s desire to support people across the region.

The donation will go a long way. As Nancy Gosselin, Development Manager for Moisson Estrie, explained, “Thanks to agreements with local merchants, each dollar is multiplied by 13.” That means the $2,285 donation has the potential to generate nearly $30,000 worth of food.

The funds will be used to purchase food for Moisson Estrie’s social grocery program and to supply 60 partner organizations throughout the Estrie region. “We cover seven MRCs,” Gosselin noted.

The need is growing. “In one year, we went from about 150 or 160 people to 207 per day,” Gosselin said, referring to the number of individuals Moisson Estrie serves daily. The number of accredited partner organizations has also grown, from 55 to 61. “Food insecurity is present, unfortunately, and it’s increasing.”

For Carson, the choice of Moisson Estrie was also a natural extension of the CFUW’s core mission. “There’s a link between food and education,” she said. “Children who don’t eat in the morning or don’t eat well during the day have a much harder time learning.”

Moisson Estrie is always looking for volunteers to support its growing operations.

By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative

As the Eastern Townships School Board (ETSB) prepares to implement significant budget reductions, the Appalachian Teachers’ Association (ATA) says it is concerned about the potential impact on students—particularly those with special needs—and is calling for broader consultation in the process.

The ETSB is facing a $6.5 million cut to its operating budget, about five per cent, as part of the Quebec government’s $510 million reduction to education spending across the province. The cuts come on top of $200 million slashed earlier this school year.

ATA President Timothy Croteau said in an interview that teachers are anxious about the months ahead and want to ensure that decisions are made with their input. “We’d love to hear from the employer, and we’ve asked that they meet with teachers as well,” he said. “Only meeting with administrators doesn’t get the word out there enough for the rest of us.”

Croteau said the union has heard the cuts may affect classroom services, student aides, and programming that supports vulnerable learners. “It might actually affect their direct services—especially our special needs children. We already don’t have enough,” he said.

He also emphasized that many provisions in the teachers’ collective agreement are designed to directly support students, such as class size limits and access to specialized resources. “It’s not just about teacher salaries,” he said. “Those agreements are built around children.”

The ATA is asking that collective agreements not be affected by the cuts and that the school board look for efficiencies in other areas. One concern is the board’s use of oversized classes, which Croteau said can reduce direct student support. “We’d like to prioritize smaller class sizes,” he said. “Because that means more direct services to students.”

Croteau noted that some schools are already exploring fundraising efforts to compensate for expected losses. “We don’t think that should have to happen,” he said. “This is a government responsibility.”

He added that many teachers support the board’s emphasis on attachment-based learning, which relies on additional time spent with students outside of formal instruction. “Those extras—like field trips—are part of how you build strong relationships,” he said. “And those are the things being cut.”

Croteau also questioned the provincial government’s claim that education funding is increasing overall. Both local MNAs—Geneviève Hébert and Isabelle Charest—have cited a $1.1 billion increase to the 2025 education budget and a 58 per cent rise since 2018.

“They keep saying there’s more money, but we don’t agree it’s reaching classrooms,” he said. “It shows how out of touch they are with teachers and students.”

The ATA is calling for more inclusive conversations as decisions are made. “We’re the ones living it, every day,” Croteau said.

Education Minister Bernard Drainville’s office was contacted for an interview but did not respond before this article went to print.

By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative

As school boards scramble to absorb $510 million in new education cuts across Quebec, Saint-François MNA Geneviève Hébert has declined to offer any further public comment on the issue, despite repeated requests from The Record.

In a written statement shared by her press attaché, Hébert emphasized that the education budget has increased by $1.1 billion this year to a record $23.5 billion. She added that since 2018, the government has increased education funding by 58 per cent. However, she acknowledged that staffing increases have outpaced student population growth, saying school service centres must now “make decisions that respond best to local needs while ensuring the sustainability of student services.”

Although Hébert’s office initially indicated she would be unavailable for an interview on June 18, The Record followed up the next day to request a future interview. That request was declined on June 19, with her office confirming that Hébert would not comment further on the education cuts. She remains, according to her spokesperson, “in close contact with stakeholders in the school sector” and “fully aware of the challenges they face.”

The silence follows sharp criticism from unions and school boards across the province. On June 17, the Centrale des syndicats du Québec (CSQ) released a statement accusing Education Minister Bernard Drainville of misleading the public, calling the budget changes a return to “austerity.” The federation highlighted severe consequences for students and staff, including hiring freezes, work overload, and the cancellation of staff assignment sessions. “We talk about educational success, but we’re cutting what’s needed to achieve it,” said FPSS-CSQ President Éric Pronovost. “Enough with the hypocrisy.”

The cuts also include a drastic reduction to building maintenance budgets, from nearly $1 billion in 2023–2024 to just $100 million in 2025–2026—a 90 per cent drop in two years. “We talk about a strong Quebec while our schools are falling apart—literally and figuratively,” Pronovost added.

Locally, the Eastern Townships School Board (ETSB) estimates it must slash around $6.5 million, or roughly five per cent of its total operating budget. Board Chair Mike Murray previously warned that extracurriculars, support services, and student aides are at serious risk. “Yes, contact your MNA and tell them it’s idiocy,” he told The Record in an earlier interview.

Brome-Missisquoi MNA Isabelle Charest, who issued a nearly identical statement to Hébert’s earlier this week, did not respond to a request for an eventual interview on June 19.

The Record has also contacted the ATA Union, the CSQ TRUSS union, and the Quebec English School Boards Association (QESBA) for interviews but has yet to receive responses.

William Crooks
Guillaume Lirette-Gélinas speaks during the June 19 announcement in Centennial Park, where he confirmed he will seek a second term as Fairview councillor under the Sherbrooke Citoyen banner

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Sherbrooke Citoyen leader and mayoral candidate Raïs Kibonge introduced the party’s candidates for the upcoming November 2025 municipal elections in Sherbrooke’s Lennoxville borough during a June 19 press conference at Centennial Park.

Guillaume Lirette-Gélinas, current councillor for Fairview, announced he will be seeking a second term, while newcomer Daniela Fernandes will run in Uplands.

“Guillaume turned his first term into an opportunity for innovation. Daniela brings a sensitivity to social issues and a fresh perspective,” said Kibonge. He praised the pair for their commitment to citizen-centred and community-driven politics.

Lirette-Gélinas highlighted his first-term accomplishments, including protecting the borough’s bilingual status, launching the Fairview Citizens’ Assembly, and supporting the arts through grants and outdoor cinema screenings. “I promised to bring politics closer to the people, and that’s exactly what I did,” he said. For his second term, he plans to focus on a business succession grant for students at Champlain, Bishop’s, and Cégep de Sherbrooke, and to enhance flood resilience by improving local hydrographic infrastructure.

Fernandes, an education advisor at Champlain College and PhD candidate, said she was running to deepen her community involvement. “Sometimes we work in the field and we want to make a difference, to do a little more. For me, especially in this community that welcomed me, it’s time to give back,” she said.

Her platform includes improving pedestrian safety—particularly on Queen Street, where she said poor lighting makes winter crossings dangerous—promoting intergenerational programming with local schools, and opening new avenues for citizen participation. “Every citizen has a role to play in improving our neighbourhood,” she said.

In the question period that followed, journalists pressed both candidates on deeper motivations and challenges, especially surrounding Lennoxville’s linguistic identity.

Asked about the future of bilingualism in the borough, Lirette-Gélinas acknowledged the growing concern. “More and more, anglophone citizens feel isolated,” he said. “Here in Lennoxville, we’ve always lived in harmony, but there’s still work to be done, especially in bridging the gap between students and long-time residents.” He emphasized the progress already made in building those connections.

The Record questioned why both candidates chose to run under the Sherbrooke Citoyen banner rather than as independents—a topic often debated in the region. Fernandes said the party’s collaborative structure appealed to her as a first-time candidate. “I would feel more secure with a team that is already working, that is knowledgeable and will support me,” she said.

Kibonge also weighed in. “There was a poll last year that showed most people just want things to get done,” he said. “Being in a party allows us to support each other, to share experiences. When Guillaume talks about Lennoxville in caucus, it helps us all understand why we must preserve bilingual status, why these things matter.”

He added that Sherbrooke Citoyen values transparency. “In 2021, we promised to preserve bilingualism—and we did. It wasn’t a campaign line, it was a belief we acted on.”

In closing, Lirette-Gélinas reflected on what he had learned since being elected in 2021. “Don’t be shy. Reach out to people, even if they seem intimidating—ministers, officials—because what’s happening in your borough matters,” he said. “And always be ready to collaborate.”

William Crooks
From left to right: David “Skip” Wright, Councillor Jennifer Garfat, Nelson Gonyer, Betty Hall, Hanna Carey, Borough President Claude Charron, Gino Rouleau, Councillor Guillaume Lirette-Gélinas, and Cyrielle Fleury at the June 18 Lennoxville Borough Council meeting

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

At the June 18 meeting of the Lennoxville Borough Council, Councillor Jennifer Garfat officially announced her intention to run for Borough President in the upcoming municipal elections this fall. Incumbent President Claude Charron confirmed he will seek to fill the councillor seat Garfat will vacate, effectively swapping roles. “That’s the intention,” Charron said, after clarifying that the two are not running against each other.

Much of the meeting’s focus centred on environmental concerns raised during question period. Hanna Carey, Quebec coordinator for Invasives Canada’s new federally funded Youth Eco-Stewards program, introduced herself and outlined plans to engage local youth aged 12 to 30 in environmental projects such as invasive species removal and pollinator garden support.

“One of the events…is going to be for Pollinator Day,” Carey said, adding that she is collaborating with groups like Sierra Club Canada and hopes to plant wildflowers in both public and private spaces in Lennoxville. She requested the borough’s help in identifying municipally owned land for planting. Carey will be coordinating the program for two years and is aiming to build partnerships with local organizations and city departments. “I’d love to get more youth in the community involved as well,” she added.

Charron said the borough would assist by connecting Carey with municipal environmental players. “We probably can assist you… our leisure department normally is responsible for different organizations in Sherbrooke and Lennoxville,” he said, suggesting that the borough could help link her with relevant contacts. He added that she would be participating in an upcoming planning session for Pollinator Day and potentially partnering with educational gardens at Bishop’s University.

A second resident (and columnist for The Record), Nelson Gonyer, raised concerns about the borough’s grass-cutting schedule, noting that lawns around public monuments were overgrown well into June. “There was one point where you couldn’t see [the flowers] for the grass,” he said, referring to the monument at the entrance to Lennoxville. Gonyer questioned whether the city had effectively extended its participation in the “No Mow May” campaign into June, creating an “unsightly” impression for visitors.

Charron explained that while No Mow May is not a bylaw, it is an encouraged environmental practice, and confirmed that mowing delays are due in part to weather and the city’s workload. “It takes them about three weeks to go around all the spaces they maintain,” he said, citing 126 sites under municipal care. He emphasized that residents should call 819-821-5858 with complaints to ensure follow-up. “If you don’t complain about it, it will stay that way,” he said.

Gonyer also asked about a proliferation of pink flyers stapled to telephone poles during Friendship Day weekend. Charron confirmed the city is aware and dealing with the situation, describing it as related to mental health. “There is a bylaw about putting posters on posts… so that’s not a legal thing to do,” he said.

During the councillor message period, members offered congratulations to Champlain College student Mateo Jarquin for winning a bronze medal at the national science fair and recognized the success of Friendship Day events. They also expressed support for families displaced by the recent fire on Massawippi Street, and highlighted the upcoming Eastern Townships Tea Festival at Uplands. Other topics included a reminder from Garfat that Chimney Swifts are endangered and residents should report sightings, as well as ongoing tick awareness and rabies prevention measures.

William Crooks
The two vacant student houses at 2848–2850 and 2856–2858 College Street, photographed on June 18, are slated for demolition due to chronic flooding and structural deterioration

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Bishop’s University is set to demolish two long-vacant student residences on College Street in Lennoxville, citing ongoing safety concerns related to flooding and the cost of repairs. The buildings, located at 2848–2850 and 2856–2858 College Street, have been empty since 2020 and 2021, respectively.

“They’re in an advanced state of disrepair,” said Kylie Côté, Vice-Principal of Finance and Administration at Bishop’s. “We did undertake some studies to see about making them viable again for students to live in,” she said, but the findings showed it would be prohibitively expensive.

Côté explained that the homes are located in a flood-prone area—one in a 0-to-20-year flood zone, the other soon to be reclassified to the same level. Even with extensive renovations, including waterproofing the foundations “similar to waterproofing the outside of a boat,” student safety could not be guaranteed.

“There was actually one instance back in October–November 2019 where we had to evacuate the students,” she said. “Even if we waterproofed the houses, the access still becomes inaccessible in the case of a flood when everything else around it is flooded.”

The combined capacity of the two buildings was 13 beds. According to Côté, the university’s current focus is expanding on-campus housing instead. Construction has already begun on a new wing of the Paterson residence that will add 63 additional beds.

“These just didn’t seem like a viable option or an interesting option for our students going forward,” Côté said.

The university does not plan to rebuild on the site. “No final decisions have been made about what that space might become in the future,” said Côté. However, she emphasized that any future use of the property “will take into consideration a long-term and lasting positive impact for the community.”

Before receiving the demolition permit from the City of Sherbrooke, the university was required to commission an architectural study to determine whether the houses had any historical or heritage value. “The study came back saying that there was not,” Côté said. “We aren’t taking anything away from the Lennoxville community that would have some sort of significance in terms of historical impact.”

The demolition aligns with the university’s broader housing strategy and its efforts to prioritize student safety. “Our mission, our focus is really more on-campus housing anyway,” said Côté.

No timeline has been announced for the demolition itself, but the process is already underway administratively. Bishop’s continues to evaluate the best long-term use of the property in consultation with stakeholders.

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Deputy Mayor Constance Ramacieri at a press conference last year

Tête-à-têtes with your local elected officials

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Stanstead Township Deputy Mayor Constance Ramacieri is no stranger to community work or local politics. With roots stretching back over four decades in the Lake Lovering and Fitch Bay area, Ramacieri spoke candidly in a recent interview about her journey into municipal leadership, the township’s current priorities, and her deep commitment to preserving water quality and building community resilience.

Ramacieri first came to the area 45 years ago, renting a place on Fitch Bay Road for the summer. “We had a big house where myself, my sisters, nephew, brother-in-law—we spent a lot of time here,” she said. What began as a summer retreat eventually became a year-round home, shared with her partner on the shores of Lake Lovering.

Though officially retired, Ramacieri remains highly active. “I do work part-time. I was a consultant on all issues related to public participation,” she said, noting her background also includes time as a political aide to the mayor of Montreal. Today, she continues to consult occasionally and also chairs the Quebec Federation for the Defence of Lakes and Waterways.

Her decision to run for council in 2021 was driven in part by necessity. “There was not a plethora of people who wanted to run,” she said. “Out of the seven positions—the mayor and six councillors—there was one election, and all the others were acclaimed. So, it was kind of like all hands on deck.”

Her work with the federation focuses on combatting aquatic invasive species like Eurasian water milfoil, which she encountered first-hand in Lake Lovering around 2014. “We were the second lake in Quebec that had the authorization to do burlap at the bottom,” she said, referring to a method of smothering the plant. That effort eventually evolved into a broader alliance advocating for provincial action.

By 2022, the informal Milfoil Alliance formally incorporated as the Quebec Federation of the Defence of Lakes and Waterways. “We have 160 members in 11 regions of Quebec,” Ramacieri said. The organization addresses a wide range of water-related concerns, from milfoil to blue-green algae, always with a focus on public health and environmental stewardship.

Locally, one of the township’s most pressing challenges is Fitch Bay. “The concern is a health concern,” Ramacieri explained, referring to the rise of blue algae linked to phosphorus stirred up by watercraft activity. “The average depth of Fitch Bay is three metres. If it’s dangerous, then we should act.”

The township is in the process of applying to the federal government—who controls navigable waterways—for authorization to impose restrictions on the bay, such as banning wake-generating activities. “It’s a huge endeavour,” she said, “many hours and a lot of investment in time, energy, and research.”

Despite earlier reports suggesting a streamlined federal process, Ramacieri clarified that the application process remains rigorous. “The hill is still as high to climb. What’s faster is the government’s response time,” she said.

Outside of environmental issues, Stanstead Township has been working to strengthen its community infrastructure. Notably, council recently signed a three-year agreement with its two main community organizations, providing them with stable funding. “It gives them predictability,” Ramacieri said. “That’s really, really good for community organizations.”

The township also owns St‑Éphrem Church, which it purchased from the diocese two years ago. The building had structural issues, but the municipality committed to studying its potential. “We said we would give ourselves two years to come up with a proposal,” Ramacieri explained.

Now, that proposal is starting to take shape with support from the Fédération québécoise des municipalités. The envisioned redevelopment includes three pillars: administrative offices for township staff, community-oriented space such as a kitchen or meeting room, and rentable space for citizen services like health consultations or tax advice.

“We have a very small city hall. Our staff is in the basement,” she said. “If we go ahead with the project, citizens should have access to staff on the main floor of a building.”

Ramacieri also highlighted the township’s agreement with Canon Gustin Hall, the local Anglican church, to help cover infrastructure costs. “It’s not huge amounts of money,” she said, “but the three-year agreement helps them finance some of the work that needs to be done.”

Asked about the relationship between council and residents, Ramacieri was positive. “I think the relationship is exceptional,” she said. “It doesn’t mean that what we do, people consider perfect—but I think people feel that they can speak to us and that they are heard.”

Stanstead Township streams all its council meetings on Zoom, a decision that makes local democracy more accessible. “You don’t even have to come out, which in the Eastern Townships in the dead of winter is a really good thing,” she noted.

Attendance tends to rise when residents have specific concerns, which Ramacieri sees as appropriate. “That’s what a council is all about. You bring us the problem, and we try to find a solution,” she said. “We don’t always have the solution—but we apply the influence we have.”

Though Stanstead Township is about 10 kilometres from the U.S. border, its economic activity hasn’t been directly impacted by cross-border trade issues. However, Ramacieri emphasized the municipality’s sense of cross-border solidarity, particularly with the Haskell Free Library and Opera House in Stanstead and Derby Line. “We follow that closely,” she said. “If anything more dire ever happened, we stand together.”

She also praised neighbouring Stanstead Mayor Jody Stone’s recent appointment to the board of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. “It’s really good for us,” she said. “Lakes and waterways, infrastructure, invasive species—these are all things that cross borders.”

Whether tackling phosphorus pollution or reimagining community landmarks, Ramacieri is clear about the role of council. “We are greater than just our small town,” she said. “And we need to act like it.”

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

As public backlash mounts over steep new education cuts, local Members of the National Assembly (MNAs) Isabelle Charest (Brome-Missisquoi) and Geneviève Hébert (Saint-François) have issued near-identical statements defending the government’s record on school funding. Neither was available for interview on June 18 despite requests from The Record.

Both Charest, MNA for Brome–Missisquoi, and Hébert, MNA for Saint-François, highlighted that the province’s education budget for 2025 has increased by $1.1 billion over last year, reaching a record $23.5 billion. Since 2018, they said, this represents a 58 per cent increase.

Their shared message also underscored the need for “responsible financial management,” noting that staffing levels in the school network have outpaced student population growth. As a result, each school service centre must now make its own budget decisions “to best meet local needs while ensuring the sustainability of student services.”

Hébert’s office further emphasized her “close contact with school sector stakeholders” and stated that she is “fully aware of the challenges they face.”

In Charest’s case, her press attachée also directed The Record to Amélie Moffet, a communications advisor at the Ministry of Education, for further comment.

The statements come in the wake of widespread concern over a $510 million reduction to Quebec’s education system, on top of $200 million in cuts earlier this school year. The Eastern Townships School Board (ETSB) has warned that programming, extracurriculars, and essential support services may be slashed to meet its own $6.5 million budget target, roughly 5 per cent of its total operating budget.

In an earlier interview, ETSB Chair Mike Murray described the situation as “impossible,” with daily internal meetings underway to search for savings across thousands of budget line items. The Quebec English School Boards Association has publicly condemned the cuts as an attack on the viability of the public system.

The Record will continue to follow this story and will seek interviews with both Charest and Hébert as soon as they are available.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A new decontamination and rehabilitation truck developed by Stanstead Battalion Chief Brian Wharry is now operational across the Régie incendie Memphrémagog Est (RIME), aiming to significantly reduce the risk of cancer and other health hazards faced by firefighters.

Wharry, who is currently undergoing treatment for leukemia, spearheaded the project out of personal conviction and professional concern. “Cancer has a little bit of a passion of mine—reducing the risk for anybody, if possible,” he said during an interview.

The idea for the dedicated truck emerged from conversations between Wharry, then-interim director Dany Brus. Recognizing that fire chiefs are too busy during emergency calls to manage decontamination and rehabilitation, Wharry proposed a vehicle that could be dispatched automatically to building fires throughout the RIME region to handle those needs.

Wharry began repurposing a retired vehicle in late 2024, equipping it through the winter to meet stringent safety and hygiene requirements. The truck now carries everything needed for on-site firefighter support, including hydration supplies like water, Gatorade, coffee, and snacks, as well as a tent setup for vital sign monitoring and cooling or warming down after exertion.

After using two air bottles in a structural fire, firefighters are now required by the Commission des normes, de l’équité, de la santé et de la sécurité du travail (CNESST) to undergo a 20-minute recovery period. “We check their vital signs—pulse and breathing—and make sure they’re getting adequate nourishment and rest,” Wharry explained. First responders manage this process, calling in paramedics if any issues arise.

Equally critical is the post-fire decontamination process, which aims to minimize firefighters’ exposure to carcinogens. “Anybody that’s in that toxic environment—they have to be washed,” Wharry said. Firefighters stay fully suited, including air packs, while trained personnel hose them down, spray them with a decontamination solution, rinse them, and then remove gear following strict procedures to avoid contact with contaminants. All gear is then bagged and sent back to the station for specialized cleaning.

The need for such a service is underscored by recent updates from CNESST, which now recognizes 15 types of cancers as presumptively linked to firefighting—an increase from nine as of May 1, Wharry said. This change aligns with research from the U.S. National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), which confirms elevated cancer rates among firefighters due to exposure to smoke, chemicals, diesel exhaust, and other toxic substances.

The RIMÉ truck is dispatched automatically as soon as a structure fire is confirmed. Although not needed immediately on scene, the team typically arrives within 30 to 45 minutes, in time to begin processing firefighters as they rotate out of the active fire zone.

The decontamination process is complemented by newer fire station protocols. “The colour-coding—the red, yellow, and green zones—is all part of making sure that the contaminants don’t cross over into the living quarters,” Wharry noted. Gear is cleaned in designated ‘hot zones’ and not allowed into the station’s ‘green zone,’ where office and living areas are located.

Wharry emphasized the standardization of the process. “It’s always the same process unless there’s a hazardous material involved. Then it’s a very different process,” he said. For ordinary structure fires, however, all personnel inside the smoke environment are treated the same way.

The truck is currently based at the Stanstead Township station but is intended to serve the broader RIME area, which includes municipalities such as Ayer’s Cliff, North Hatley, Stanstead, and even as far as Barnston West. It will eventually be relocated to Ayer’s Cliff, once the new fire station there is complete.

“This truck is about taking one thing off the fire chief’s plate during a call,” Wharry said. “We manage the rehab and decontamination, and hopefully, that reduces the long-term health risks for our team.”

A group photo of all 20 fire trucks in the region and their crews is currently being planned for this Friday, an initiative Wharry said would a chance to celebrate the teamwork behind RIME’s growing health and safety capacity.

William Crooks
From left to right: Claude Carrière, president of Jouvence’s board of directors; Gilles Bélanger, Minister of Cybersecurity and Digital Affairs and MNA for Orford; Annie Cloutier, director of tourism and social economy financing at Investissement Québec; and Martin Lavoie, general director of Jouvence, hold up an image of the future auberge in front of the building it will replace.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Centre de villégiature Jouvence, a long-standing social economy business nestled in Mont-Orford National Park, is receiving a major boost to its infrastructure with a new $18 million revitalization project, supported by more than $12 million in government funding.

At a press conference held June 17 at La Petite Auberge de Jouvence, Minister of Cybersecurity and Digital Affairs and MNA for Orford Gilles Bélanger announced the funding on behalf of the Ministry of Tourism. “Jouvence is essential to our region,” Bélanger said. “This project is about more than a new building—it’s about securing the future of an institution that touches the lives of thousands each year.”

The investment includes $5 million from the Programme d’aide à la relance de l’industrie touristique (PARIT) and over $7 million in loans, largely through Investissement Québec. According to the official release, the new building will be built to LEED certification standards and will feature 42 rooms, a dining room with 90 seats, and flexible spaces for meetings, congresses, and retreats.

Jouvence’s Director General Martin Lavoie described the project as the organization’s new “navire amiral”—its flagship facility. “We are not just building a structure. We are building a future that is greener, more resilient, and more human,” he said, noting that the work will begin immediately with demolition next week. The new auberge is expected to open in the summer of 2026.

In a follow-up interview, Jouvence’s Assistant Director General Hugo Veilleux highlighted how the new auberge will allow the centre to expand its offering. “We’ve seen a growing demand from corporate groups, universities, and unions looking for a peaceful place to meet,” he said. “This project will help us meet that demand while supporting our core mission.”

The revenue generated from the upgraded facility will help fund renovations across the rest of the 110-room site, ensuring Jouvence can continue welcoming school groups, families, and individuals year-round. “We’re open all year, but people don’t always realize that,” Veilleux added. “Come September, the prices drop and the experience is just as magical.”

Founded over five decades ago, Jouvence offers all-inclusive nature stays with lodging, meals, and outdoor activities. The new construction is part of a long-term vision to modernize while staying true to its community-based roots.

The project is also supported by the Caisse d’économie solidaire Desjardins and Tourisme Cantons-de-l’Est. “Jouvence will remain a place of connection—with nature, with oneself, and with others,” said Tourisme Cantons-de-l’Est Director General Isabelle Charlebois.

With work already underway and an official inauguration expected in 2026, Lavoie thanked all those who brought the project to life: “This is our answer to the challenges of today and tomorrow.”

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Mélanie Letendre Jauniaux at the SSHRC Storytellers Challenge event, where she was recognized for her work on trauma-informed education

Bishop’s grad student honoured for trauma awareness work

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Mélanie Letendre Jauniaux, a psychology master’s student at Bishop’s University, has received national recognition for her community-based research and powerful communication skills. Jauniaux was awarded the Engagement Prize at this year’s Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) Storytellers Challenge—an honour voted on by her fellow finalists.

“The SSHRC Storytellers Contest is a federally funded competition where you have to tell the story of your research and why it matters—in three minutes—to a multidisciplinary or lay audience,” Jauniaux explained in a June 16 conversation. “It’s a great way to practice scientific communication.”

Jauniaux’s work centres around trauma-informed education. A former youth protection worker, she returned to school shortly before the pandemic, completing a BA in psychology and a certificate in knowledge mobilization before moving on to her current master’s research.

Her passion for the topic is deeply personal. “I’m a trauma survivor,” she shared. “Learning the science of trauma helped me realize I wasn’t alone.”

Trauma, she said, is now broadly defined as an event that overwhelms a person’s capacity to cope and can change the brain and body. But healing is possible. “We can rewire, we can reconnect, and we can heal,” she said.

Her master’s project involves the creation and evaluation of a half-day trauma-awareness training program delivered in partnership with local organizations. “It provides participants with basic knowledge about the science of trauma, how to become more trauma-informed, and how to apply this understanding in real-world contexts,” she explained. “Participants say it’s helped them understand their own experiences and those of people around them, and some have even changed their workplace practices.”

For example, Jauniaux described how a professor might misinterpret a student’s seemingly extreme reaction to a minor incident. “They might think the student is being disrespectful, when in reality, the student could be re-experiencing a traumatic event,” she said. “The science shows that traumatic memories can be encoded in survival mode and re-experienced as though they’re happening in the present.”

She emphasized that trauma is not limited to PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). “It exists on a continuum,” she explained, “from adversity and stress to more severe trauma. It can come from childhood experiences, systemic injustice, or long-term exposure to microaggressions.”

So far, her training has been offered free of charge and shaped collaboratively with participants. “I’ve developed versions for Bishop’s and [other organizations]. Each one looks a little different, because we adapt it based on feedback,” she said.

Her ultimate goal is to make trauma education more accessible and impactful. “Research doesn’t make sense unless you’re doing it with community,” she said. “This isn’t just my work—it was built with the people around me.”

As she nears the end of her degree, Jauniaux is looking ahead to the next stage of her academic journey. “I’m finishing my master’s this summer and planning to pursue a PhD in psychology,” she said. “I want to keep building on this work.”

Reflecting on her SSHRC win, Jauniaux said she was honoured to be selected by her peers. “It’s a privilege to be able to share my story—and theirs. I shouldn’t be the only one in the spotlight.”

By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative

The Eastern Townships School Board (ETSB) is scrambling to adjust to drastic new budget cuts imposed by the provincial government, according to Chair Mike Murray. The cuts are part of a $510 million reduction to education spending across Quebec, announced last week with little notice and no room for negotiation.

In an interview with The Record, Murray described the situation as “impossible” and said the ETSB has already suspended all hiring for the upcoming school year. “We have obligations under all of our collective agreements to maintain those jobs we can,” he said. “What we have to try and do is find the kind of deep cuts… and so far it’s going to be very difficult to cut enough.”

The board estimates it must cut 5 to 5.5 per cent of its total budget—roughly $6.5 million—mostly from the small portion not tied up in salaries. That leaves student services and programming vulnerable. “Everything parascolaire, every kind of extra activity that students are able to enjoy now, [may] have to go,” Murray said. “Outings, clubs, sports—these things are at serious risk.”

Murray also noted that essential support services are on the chopping block. “Especially aides and classroom aides that were to help students—particularly disadvantaged students… not necessarily handicapped but those that need extra coaching.” Professional development for staff is another likely casualty, he added.

The cuts come on the heels of another $200 million slashed earlier this school year, prompting a sharp rebuke from the Quebec English School Boards Association (QESBA). In a June 13 press release, QESBA President Joe Ortona called the move “a direct assault on the viability of our public education system.” He said the decision allows for only 24 hours of consultation and prohibits boards from using any accumulated surplus to soften the blow.

“Our answer is a clear and resounding NO, full stop,” Ortona said. “This financial crisis was not created by school boards, and we will not allow our school system’s integrity to be sacrificed to solve this government’s deficit.”

Murray echoed the sentiment, calling the cuts “wholly political.” He pointed to last year’s collective agreement negotiations, when the Treasury Board sidelined experienced negotiators and agreed to what he described as “very large salary increases.” The financial implications, he said, were not fully understood by the government, and have now ballooned into a budgetary crisis.

The government has framed the cuts as a necessary “budgetary effort,” Murray said. Directors General of school boards were summoned last Thursday to a midday meeting and presented with fixed budget reduction targets. “Don’t argue, it’s not up for negotiation,” was the message, according to Murray. Any feedback had to be submitted within 24 hours.

Despite appeals sent to the education minister outlining the severity of the situation, Murray said he doesn’t expect any change of course. “This is all Treasury Board trying to manage their budget,” he said. “And I’m not minimizing the problem the Treasury Board has.”

Internally, the ETSB is holding daily meetings of its resource allocation committee and has already convened a large management meeting involving principals and centre directors. “We’re working through 4,000 or 5,000 item budget[s], trying to find economies somewhere,” Murray said. A special council meeting will likely be required in July to finalize the budget.

Murray urged concerned parents to act. “Yes, contact your MNA and tell them it’s idiocy,” he said. “Whether they’re government side or opposition side, they have a voice in the National Assembly.”

The QESBA has likewise called on all education partners, parents, and community members to stand united against the cuts. “The future of our children and the strength of our democratic institutions depend on a robust, equitable, and properly funded public education system,” Ortona said.

The ETSB’s next council meeting is expected to provide more concrete details on how the cuts will play out locally. Until then, Murray said, “we will continue to be working very hard on this until certainly next week.”

William Crooks
Kerwins Saint-Jean speaks at his official campaign launch in Lennoxville on June 16, backed by supporters from Sherbrooke Citoyen

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

At a midday press conference held in Lennoxville’s Square Queen on Monday, June 16, Sherbrooke Citoyen leader and mayoral candidate Raïs Kibonge officially introduced Kerwins Saint-Jean as the party’s candidate for the Lennoxville district in the upcoming municipal election set for November.

Saint-Jean, a long-time community advocate and organizer, announced his candidacy with visible emotion, pledging to bring his experience and deep connection to Lennoxville to municipal politics. “I’m ready to give back to Sherbrooke,” he told the crowd. “Lennoxville is a unique and vibrant part of Sherbrooke—bilingual, diverse, and closely knit. I want to help it thrive with listening, respect, and determination.”

Saint-Jean emphasized three priorities in his campaign: supporting the local business sector, protecting the Ascot-Lennox woodland, and improving public transit. He spoke of strengthening the commercial corridor along Queen Street, where he hopes to “support current storeowners and encourage the development of new ventures.” He also called for increased bus service on evenings and weekends and expressed support for a universal transit pass for Bishop’s and Champlain students.

The former Cougars football player and Champlain College alumnus noted how Lennoxville shaped his early life. “It’s where I experienced my first real challenges, my first real victories,” he said. “It’s the view, the spirit, the people—it’s my home.”

Following his remarks, Saint-Jean responded to reporters’ questions, explaining that he chose to run with Sherbrooke Citoyen because of the party’s alignment with his values. “Inclusion and the environment—it’s really the reason why I love Sherbrooke and don’t want to leave,” he said. “This is the right move.”

When asked about the importance of bilingual status in Lennoxville, Kibonge stepped in to reaffirm the party’s commitment. “Lennoxville is a particularly special place that needs that, deserves that,” he said. “People here need to make sure that they can understand what’s going on… Rest assured, that’s definitely one of our priorities.” Kibonge added that the party supported retaining Lennoxville’s bilingual designation in 2023 and would continue to uphold that position. “For us, diversity is not just something to talk about—it’s something to live.”

Kibonge praised Saint-Jean’s record of engagement and leadership. “Kerwins embodies the kind of leadership Sherbrooke needs: proactive, innovative, and unifying,” he said. “His achievements show a real commitment to inclusion, youth, and community development.”

A related press release adds that Saint-Jean first gained broad recognition in 2020 when he co-organized the Black Lives Matter demonstration in Sherbrooke, which drew over 3,000 people. In 2024, he co-led the Grand Innovation Lab, an entrepreneurial forum bringing together young Black leaders from across Quebec. He currently works as a project coordinator at the Socio-Economic Summit for the Development of Black Youth.

His community work has included involvement with Actions Interculturelles, the Fédération des communautés culturelles de l’Estrie, Black Estrie, and the Haitian Community of the Eastern Townships, where he served as president. He was awarded the Youth Recognition–Nelson Mandela and the King Charles III Coronation Medal, presented by then-Revenue Minister Élisabeth Brière.

Asked what has most prepared him to enter municipal politics, Saint-Jean pointed to his grassroots experience. “Community, pure and simple,” he said. “I’ve worked with people from many backgrounds with a common mission—helping one’s neighbour. Politics is really the place to do that in a local, tangible way.”

He concluded the event by thanking his new political team and promising a campaign rooted in dialogue and action. “I promise you an attentive ear, a constant presence, and sincere energy put to the service of what we are building together,” he said.

William Crooks
Residents, staff, and supporters of Grace Village Retirement Community gather outside on June 13 before setting off on their awareness walk, each wearing a purple ribbon in recognition of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Grace village marks elder abuse awareness day

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Residents, staff, and community members gathered at Grace Village Retirement Community on June 13 to raise awareness about elder abuse by participating in a walk near the property in honour of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day.

“I don’t know if people really understand what elder abuse is,” said Grace Village Executive Director Brigitte Lambert. “It’s not necessarily just physical—it can be emotional, psychological, financial. It can be neglect.”

This was the second year the walk has been held at Grace Village. Lambert said on location that it’s important to keep building momentum around the issue. “We do this walk to say: we see you, we hear you, you matter, and you deserve respect.”

Lambert said elder abuse is often misunderstood and unreported. “It’s a very silent abuse,” she explained. “When you’re older, when you’re dependent on the other person, it’s scary. It’s shameful. You don’t know who to turn to.”

The walk was held in advance of World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, recognized annually on June 15. Participants wore purple ribbons—symbolic of the cause—as they walked the grounds together.

According to a February 2025 update from the Public Health Agency of Canada, between four and ten per cent of older adults in the country experience some form of abuse, though only one in five incidents comes to the attention of someone who can help.

Lambert noted that recognizing elder abuse requires attentiveness and training. “If you have a resident that’s usually very outgoing and very friendly and talkative, and then all of a sudden becomes withdrawn, you kind of go, ‘Okay, there’s a change.’”

She added that financial abuse is also a concern. “Sometimes a resident starts saying, ‘I don’t have any more money to go to the hairdresser.’ That could be a sign.”

At Grace Village, Lambert said, “We train our staff to recognize signs, but we also educate our residents and families to say, ‘If you see something, say something.’”

She emphasized the importance of community-wide action. “There’s not enough education around it. We need to keep doing things like this walk.”

Lambert said organizing the walk is a way to “bring people together and start a conversation.” She said she hopes others will follow suit. “If we all do one little thing, it makes a difference.”

William Crooks
From left to right: Jacques Simard, landowner and initiator of the FUSA project; René-Claude Tremblay, organizer of the nature wellness day; Christian Legault, trustee involved in the creation of the FUSA; Étienne Doyon, citizen engaged in the project; and Christine Labrie, MNA for Sherbrooke, stand together on June 13 near the Saint-François River after announcing the successful fundraising campaign to establish the FUSA Jacques Simard.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A grassroots initiative to protect 80 acres of farmland near the Saint-François River in Sherbrooke received a major boost on Friday, as local MNA Christine Labrie announced a $7,000 donation that brings the fundraising total over the threshold needed to create a social utility agroecological trust (FUSA) on the property.

The announcement was made June 13 at a press conference held on the site, just outside Lennoxville, in the presence of project organizers and supporters. Labrie, MNA for Sherbrooke, said the donation represents part of her ongoing commitment to reinvest the salary increase Quebec MNAs voted themselves in 2023.

“I made a commitment a few years ago, when we got a 30 per cent raise, to give it back to the community,” she said during the event. “This year, I chose to support the creation of a trust on this farmland here by the river. It’s a citizen-led project that’s been in the works for years and is finally coming to life.”

According to the official press release issued by Labrie’s office, the donation helped the project organizers reach their fundraising goal of $33,363. The FUSA Jacques Simard will protect the land in perpetuity and make it accessible for future generations of farmers and for community events.

Étienne Doyon, one of the citizens leading the effort, explained that the 80-acre plot includes about 1.2 kilometres of riverfront and roughly 20 acres of arable land that has been farmed organically in recent years. “We launched the fundraising campaign this spring, and nearly 200 people contributed,” he said. “Christine’s donation helped us cross the finish line.”

The trust is expected to be formally established later this summer or by early fall. Doyon added that any funds raised beyond the initial goal will be used to install electrical and water access, deer fencing, and a small community tent. “The idea is not just to protect the farmland, but to create a place that’s open to the community—where people can celebrate, connect to nature, and participate in events,” he said during the press conference.

Jacques Simard, the current landowner, has been working with community members for some time to find a way to transfer stewardship of the land in a way that guarantees long-term public benefit. Doyon described the project as the culmination of those efforts: “The dream is a protected agricultural space that’s also a hub for community life.”

One of the first such events will be held this weekend. On Sunday, June 15, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., a nature-based wellness day will take place on the land, led by René-Claude Tremblay and a team of facilitators. “We’ll have singing, movement, forest bathing, artistic exploration, and poetry,” Tremblay said. “It’s a chance to connect with the land and support the FUSA at the same time.”

Tremblay noted that all proceeds from the day will go directly to the trust, and that participants can still make donations until June 20 and receive a tax receipt. “People can come to walk the land, relax as a family, or just take it in,” she said.

This is not Labrie’s first time using her salary increase for environmental causes. Last year, she donated $18,000 to the Association pour le Boisé Ascot-Lennox to help establish a similar trust aimed at protecting forested areas in Sherbrooke.

Additional details about the FUSA Jacques Simard and the upcoming wellness event are available on Facebook under “Ressourcement en nature en soutien à la FUSA de Jacques Simard,” or by contacting Tremblay via her website, lesalondyoga.com.

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From left to right: Marie-Andrée Lafrance, Thomas Dandurand, Léonie Gamache (Gleaning Project Coordinator), Aileen Collier, and Sarah Richard stand together as members of the CéSAM executive committee. Missing from the photo: Karine Beaupré and Lisane Boisclair.

By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative

A new initiative to recover unused crops and fight food waste is taking root in the Memphrémagog region this summer. Launched by the Comité sécurité alimentaire Memphrémagog (CéSAM), the “Seconde Récolte Memphré” gleaning project seeks to collect surplus fruits and vegetables left behind in fields and redistribute them to local residents, volunteers, and food banks.

“This project is environmental, social, and deeply human,” said Léonie Gamache, the new project coordinator hired by CéSAM to lead the initiative. “It helps recover valuable food, supports food security, and strengthens relationships between citizens and local producers.”

Gleaning—an age-old practice of recovering leftover crops post-harvest—takes on a structured and community-focused form in this pilot program. Speaking with The Record, Gamache explained that the idea is to “make sure that we don’t waste any food directly in the field.” With nearly 400 local producers in the region, she noted, the potential impact is significant.

“There was already another project in the area that was slowing down, but the committee really wanted to implement something sustainable because they saw a big need,” she said. “This is a brand-new idea with a structure around it.”

The model is simple but effective: when farmers anticipate having crops they cannot harvest—due to time, labour shortages, or because the produce is slightly blemished or overly abundant—they can contact the project team. Volunteers are then gathered and dispatched to harvest the surplus produce. The bounty is divided evenly: one-third goes to the farmer, one-third to the volunteers, and one-third to the Memphrémagog Food Bank.

“It’s just going out and harvesting in the field—saving food that’s not going to be sold,” Gamache said. “Sometimes the farmers don’t have enough employees to go out there, or the fruit and vegetables are a bit ugly, but still perfectly good to eat or to transform into sauces or preserves.”

While the project is still in its infancy—no field outings have taken place yet this season—Gamache said she expects the effort to recover “many kilos” of produce by the end of the summer. The focus will be on crops that tend to be overproduced or particularly abundant.

“Things like zucchinis, cucumbers, and strawberries—those are often the ones left behind because they produce so much,” she said. “It really depends on the crop and what the farmer grows. We’re not likely to see things like garlic, which are high-value and usually all picked.”

CéSAM is actively seeking both farmers willing to participate and volunteers interested in helping out. Information and sign-up forms are available at www.cepop.ca/glanage, and the site offers an English translation option. “We’re super available,” said Gamache. “There’s a contact email, phone number, and online form—whatever works best for people.”

To raise awareness about the initiative, CéSAM will also have an information booth at the Intercultural Summer Market in Magog on July 3, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. at 350 Saint-David Street.

Founded in 2013, CéSAM is a collaborative network that brings together various organizations committed to improving food security in the MRC de Memphrémagog. The committee works to ensure all residents have access to healthy food and takes coordinated action based on local needs.

Gamache said she hopes to return at the end of the season with photos and data showing the success of this summer’s pilot. “We’re really just launching,” she said. “But the response already shows people are excited to get involved.”

William Crooks
From left to right: Patrick Clowery, President of the Intermunicipal Board of the Massawippi Regional Park; Jacques Demers, Mayor of Sainte-Catherine-de-Hatley and Warden of the MRC de Memphrémagog; Lyne Desnoyers, Project Manager – Landscapes and Agriculture, MRC de Memphrémagog; Abelle L’Écuyer-Legault, General Manager and Clerk-Treasurer of Ayer’s Cliff; Sonia Tremblay, General Manager and Secretary-Treasurer of the Intermunicipal Board of the Massawippi Regional Park; Simon Roy, Mayor of Ayer’s Cliff; Pierre Côté, Mayor of Hatley; and Ève Rainville, Co-owner of Domaine Bergeville, stand outside the winery on June 10 following the launch of the Circuit Massawippi.

Circuit Massawippi invites residents and tourists to explore lakeside riches

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A new initiative launched June 10 at Domaine Bergeville in Hatley Township is inviting locals and visitors alike to rediscover the natural and cultural heritage surrounding Lake Massawippi. Dubbed the “Circuit Massawippi,” the 65-kilometre agrotourism route weaves through the municipalities of Sainte-Catherine-de-Hatley, the Township and Village of Hatley, North Hatley, and Ayer’s Cliff.

Developed by the Intermunicipal Board of the Massawippi Regional Park in collaboration with the MRC de Memphrémagog and landscape committees from the five lakeside municipalities, the project includes a detailed bilingual map that highlights scenic roads, artisanal producers, panoramic viewpoints, and key local stops.

“This is a beautiful project that showcases Lake Massawippi, nestled in the splendour of the Appalachians,” said Patrick Clowery, President of the Park Board and municipal councillor in Hatley Township, during the official launch. “It stems from a shared desire to showcase our beautiful region and its exceptional producers and landscapes.”

The project also includes a companion real-life escape game, “Légende du Massawippi,” designed to add an interactive element to the experience. Both initiatives emerged from earlier public interest sparked by a similar map created for Lake Memphrémagog in 2022. According to Lyne Desnoyers, Project Manager for Landscapes and Agriculture at the MRC, feedback from local stakeholders played a crucial role. “Some merchants from around Lake Massawippi reached out to us, saying they wanted their own map. The idea took off from there.”

On one side, the map outlines a 65-kilometre loop featuring suggested scenic detours. The other side spotlights the five participating municipalities, describing key points of interest, including beaches, parks, and rest areas. The route is designed for travel by car, bike, or motorcycle.

“This map allows us to visit the region differently,” said Sonia Tremblay, Director General of the Intermunicipal Park Board. “It’s a great invitation to discover beautiful landscapes, passionate artisans, and welcoming people.”

According to a related press release, the Circuit Massawippi is a “Signature Innovation” project supported through Quebec’s Fonds régions et ruralité, under the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing. In addition to promoting tourism and economic development, the initiative supports the MRC’s broader strategy to increase public access to the region’s most iconic landscapes and to strengthen local collaboration.

Jacques Demers, Mayor of Sainte-Catherine-de-Hatley and Warden of the MRC de Memphrémagog, praised the project’s local focus. “The hat I’m wearing today is that of a citizen,” he said. “Let’s use this for ourselves first. Then the tourists will follow. This kind of collective project benefits everyone.”

The launch event was hosted at Domaine Bergeville, one of the stops featured on the new circuit. “We’ve been established here for more than 16 years,” co-owner Ève Rainville told guests. “We only make sparkling wine using the traditional method because we believe the terroir here is perfect for it.” She noted the shop at the vineyard would be open from Wednesday to Sunday until mid-October and invited visitors to stop by for tastings and guided tours.

Other dignitaries in attendance included Simon Roy, Mayor of Ayer’s Cliff; Pierre Côté, Mayor of Hatley; Abelle L’Écuyer-Legault, General Manager and Clerk-Treasurer of Ayer’s Cliff; and Sonia Tremblay, also acting as Secretary-Treasurer of the Park Board.

The new maps are now available at tourism offices, local businesses, and online at www.lacmassawippi.ca under the “Circuit Massawippi” tab. According to Desnoyers, merchants across the region have already received their promotional materials, ready to welcome curious travellers.

“This kind of collaboration is so appreciated,” she said. “It’s a real celebration of what makes this territory unique.”

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Residents of Hatley Township will no longer have free access to North Hatley’s municipal beach this summer, following the end of a long-standing recreational agreement between the two municipalities. The move, formalized by Hatley Township council in October 2024, has sparked concern among residents as the summer season begins.

According to a statement from the municipality posted to Facebook, “the municipality has recently ceased to offer free access to the municipal beach to residents of Hatley Township.” Those wishing to visit North Hatley’s beach must now pay the full non-resident fee.

Mayor Vincent Fontaine confirmed in an interview that the Township decided not to renew the agreement because “there wasn’t really any sharing” between the two municipalities in terms of services. “We didn’t have activities there and they were still charging us,” Fontaine explained. He also pointed out that the beach in question is not a public beach, but “a private beach,” and that “under the laws of the country, we have to pay.”

Fontaine emphasized that while Hatley Township residents will now be required to pay non-resident rates, the Township is working on a plan to reimburse the difference. “What we’re going to do is pass a resolution next week,” he said. “Residents will pay the surcharge, and we will reimburse them for the difference between the resident and non-resident fee.” He gave the example that if the regular price for residents is $25 and the non-resident fee is $50, Hatley Township would reimburse the $25 difference.

Hatley Township Councillor Pat Clowery, speaking with The Record at an unrelated event, echoed this, saying that the plan is to either fully or partially reimburse residents. He encouraged them to keep their receipts, as the program will be applied retroactively once the resolution is passed. Retroactive reimbursement was also nominally confirmed by Mayor Fontaine.

Fontaine stressed that the plan has not yet been officially adopted. “I can’t tell you it’s official yet because I haven’t signed it,” he said, asking that it not be reported as finalized. A decision is expected at the next council meeting.

In the meantime, the Township is recommending that residents visit Ayer’s Cliff Beach, which remains free to access. Fontaine noted that this beach is managed collectively by four municipalities and “has always been free.”

An unsigned email response from the Municipality of North Hatley clarified that it had no role in Hatley Township’s decision to terminate the agreement. “North Hatley had no part in the Canton de Hatley’s decision to not resign the agreement,” the statement reads. “North Hatley is in no way against renewed negotiations… however council have received no requests from the Canton de Hatley at this time.”

With the agreement dissolved, North Hatley is now solely responsible for the operating costs of the beach. As a result, fees for non-residents have been instituted for the 2025 season. An individual season pass costs $125 (plus tax), and a family pass (maximum five people) costs $300 (plus tax). Ten-entry booklets are also available at $45 for children and $90 for adults.

Fontaine expressed frustration that North Hatley continues to act independently. “They’ve always wanted to stay independent… just for North Hatley people to go to the beach,” he said. He also criticized past arrangements where the Township received invoices for activities that only benefited North Hatley residents. “It wasn’t normal.”

A link to the minutes of the October 2024 Hatley Township council meeting confirms the resolution to withdraw from the agreement. In its Facebook message, the Township encouraged residents to stay tuned for updates: “We invite you to remain on the lookout for municipal communications to find out the consequences of this file.”

Residents seeking clarification or wishing to express concerns are encouraged to attend a public hearing on July 8, when Hatley Township council is expected to address the issue further.

William Crooks
Stanstead council members, led by Mayor Jody Stone, addressed a full agenda on June 9, including infrastructure upgrades, zoning adjustments, and heritage promotion initiatives

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Stanstead’s municipal council tackled a wide range of issues during its regular June 9 meeting, from delayed web updates and development fees to a cross-border trash dispute and local zoning frustrations. Presided over by Mayor Jody Stone, the meeting drew about seven residents, including a concerned neighbour from Derby Line, Vermont.

A large portion of the meeting focused on concerns brought forward during the question period. Frank Davis, a Derby Line resident, raised the issue of an unsightly accumulation of garbage at the entrance to the customs station on the Canadian side of Caswell Avenue. Although the trash is in Stanstead, Davis said he believed it originated from American tenants trying to avoid private garbage pickup fees across the border.

“Frankly, it doesn’t look good,” Davis said, offering to help clean it up himself. “If I hear positive things on your side, [I’ll] bring it to the trustees of Derby Line and the town of Derby.”

Mayor Stone responded with historical context and acknowledged the difficulty of the situation. Because the building straddles the border, its Canadian side receives municipal trash pickup, which residents from the U.S. side have allegedly abused. “We are somewhat obliged, if not completely obliged, to offer the service to that particular building,” he said. Stanstead has already taken steps to manually clean the area but is considering fines or service changes. “We just want to make sure it’s clean,” said Stone. “That’s all we want.”

Another lengthy exchange involved a request to waive or refund a parkland fee paid during a property subdivision. A local resident was surprised to learn he owed the fee, which is typically 5 per cent of the land value. Mayor Stone explained that while council agreed the charge discouraged housing development, “we’re not sure if we’re legally allowed” to issue a refund for past projects. The town is awaiting legal advice on both the reimbursement and regulatory changes to abolish the fee going forward.

One resident raised concerns about a property line dispute related to fencing and zoning limits. The issue involved old infrastructure, possibly dating to the 1940s, and a lack of clear boundary markers. Town officials confirmed they were investigating but noted they lacked an in-house surveyor and wanted to avoid overstepping legal boundaries.

A separate resident asked why council minutes and agendas were not regularly posted online. Town staff admitted the website had fallen behind and said they were working on updating the necessary documents.

There was also a question about an amendment to firearms regulations. Stone explained that the original bylaw had prohibited residents from crossing the street with an unloaded, uncased hunting firearm. The new language would allow that under reasonable and safe conditions.

In regular business, council passed multiple resolutions. Among them:

• The hiring of part-time municipal inspector, a former inspector for Coaticook and Sherbrooke, to help clear the backlog of permit applications.
• The renewal of a summer contract with a municipal employee to handle park and building maintenance.
• Approval of a $42,811 backup pump purchase for the Rock Island wastewater treatment plant, deemed essential for emergency preparedness.
• Adoption of a bylaw change clarifying rules around the carrying of firearms in public.
• Acceptance of an $809 software migration cost as part of a portal upgrade used by notaries, agents, and legal staff.
• A motion to authorize the potential sale of properties for unpaid taxes, though council noted that most major debts had already been resolved and that payment arrangements were encouraged.

Council also approved participation in the Balado Découverte platform, a digital heritage and tourism initiative, through a $7,500 grant application and a conditional $11,611 contract. The initial rollout will include a walking tour of 24 historic sites across Stanstead with accompanying photos, text, and audio guides.

Other approved motions included support for minor zoning variances and the appointment of Greg Duncan to the town’s Urbanism Consultative Committee.

Mayor Stone closed the meeting by updating residents on several ongoing initiatives. He reported steady progress on the town’s website updates, staff recruitment, and legal consultations. He also noted that construction of the new firehall had officially begun, and public works crews had finished sweeping roads and were preparing for summer asphalt repairs and dirt road upgrades, including applications for infrastructure grants. “We budget $100,000 a year [for paving],” he said, adding that he hoped to increase that amount without overly burdening taxpayers.

In his closing remarks, Stone also mentioned a recent trip to the National Assembly, where he raised the issue of the local SAQ (Société des alcools du Québec) being at risk of closure. He said the building was considered too large for current use and could be shut down, but he is lobbying for a solution. “We want to keep our SAQ,” he said, noting the town’s efforts to explore options with the provincial government.

The mayor also praised the upcoming launch of the day camp and encouraged families to register. “We have a lot of history, and people are fascinated by the story of Stanstead,” he said, referring to the upcoming podcast-style walking tour. “It deserves to be heard and seen.”

The next regular council meeting is scheduled for July.

Sherbrooke homelessness advocate warns of stigma, centralization

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A new provincial bill intended to regulate the placement of supervised consumption services is facing strong opposition from homelessness advocates across Quebec, including in Sherbrooke. Bill 103, introduced by Minister Lionel Carmant, would prohibit the establishment of such centres within 150 metres of schools and daycare centres. But critics say the proposed law is not only incoherent—it threatens to increase stigma, reduce access to essential services, and strip decision-making power away from local communities.

Gabriel Pallotta, coordinator of the Table itinérance de Sherbrooke, expressed concern that the bill sends the wrong message and risks undoing two decades of collaborative efforts in the region.

“The first issue is the message it sends,” Pallotta said in an interview. “It makes an amalgam between people experiencing homelessness and public nuisance. That’s a dangerous association—especially right now, when public discourse is becoming more polarized.”

According to Pallotta, the bill’s language implies that people who use drugs or who live on the street are a threat to be managed rather than citizens to be supported. “The term ‘inconvenience’ is used in the legislation. That’s really problematic. It fuels a narrative where some people are framed as less welcome, less worthy.”

These concerns are echoed at the provincial level. The Réseau SOLIDARITÉ Itinérance du Québec (RSIQ), a network representing over 200 community groups, released a statement calling the bill “stigmatizing and incoherent.” Boromir Vallée Dore, Executive Director of the RSIQ, stated that Bill 103 contradicts several foundational policies the government claims to uphold, including the National Policy to Combat Homelessness and the Public Health and Social Services Act.

“Bill 103 represents a troubling step backward,” Vallée Dore said. “It undermines principles of inclusion and access to services.”

The RSIQ is particularly concerned about the broader implications of the bill. While its immediate effect would be to restrict the location of supervised consumption centres, there are fears that it could later be expanded to other types of support services, such as shelters and drop-in centres. That, advocates argue, would jeopardize access for the people who need them most.

In Sherbrooke, Pallotta said the threat is not just theoretical. He pointed out that the city has developed a unique, collaborative model that relies on input from many local actors: public health boards, municipal representatives, community organizations, and even law enforcement.

“In Sherbrooke, we’re all around the same table,” he said. “Instead of everyone working in their own office, we discuss projects together, we adjust based on local needs, and we try to respond in a way that’s inclusive.”

He gave the example of a recent public awareness campaign discouraging motorists from giving money to panhandlers at intersections. “The first version of the campaign was stigmatizing,” Pallotta admitted. “But through back-and-forth with community groups and the police, we reworked it. The final version addressed safety concerns while respecting the dignity of the people involved.”

He fears Bill 103 could upend that kind of collaboration. “Right now, we make these decisions together. But under this law, the minister would have almost absolute and arbitrary powers. It centralizes decision-making in a way that doesn’t reflect local realities.”

Those realities, he said, are becoming more complex. “We’re seeing an increase in mental health challenges and drug dependency. It’s not just a question of more people—it’s about more intense needs. The drugs out there now are more toxic, often mixed with unpredictable substances. People don’t always know what they’re taking.”

Pallotta believes the COVID-19 pandemic intensified underlying stress in the population, and that social services haven’t been adequately scaled up to respond. “We’re at a point where we need to think about treating people with permanent damage from drug use. That’s the level we’re dealing with.”

Asked why public discourse around homelessness seems to be getting harsher, Pallotta pointed to the role of social media and digital echo chambers. “There’s a polarization. People form strong opinions without necessarily having all the information. It creates a lot of fear and stigma.”

And that fear, he added, is real. “It’s understandable. If someone approaches your car asking for money and you don’t know them or understand their situation, it can be uncomfortable or even frightening.”

But fear, he argues, should not be the basis for legislation. “Instead of reacting by tightening rules and increasing police involvement, we should be pushing for strong public policies that prevent people from ending up in survival situations to begin with.”

Despite his many criticisms of Bill 103, Pallotta acknowledged one potentially positive element: the bill includes a requirement for cohabitation plans—strategies developed in advance of opening a new service to address neighbourhood concerns. “That’s a good idea,” he said. “But right now, it puts all the responsibility on the community organizations. If the government provided resources to help create those plans collaboratively, it could be a great tool.”

Ultimately, Pallotta said, the public has a role to play beyond charitable giving. “Of course, you can donate to organizations. But more importantly, we need people to raise their voices and demand better policies. We’re constantly treating the symptoms. What we need are solutions that stop the flow.”

The RSIQ’s full brief, along with its recommendations for changes to Bill 103, can be found on their website.

Courtesy RÉGIE INCENDIE MEMPHRÉMAGOG EST
Flames engulf the back of a border-straddling apartment building on Lee St. in Stanstead late on the night of May 28, shortly before fire crews from both Canada and the U.S. arrived on scene

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Two significant fires broke out this week in the Eastern Townships—one on the international border in Stanstead and another near Lake Lovering in Magog—drawing coordinated responses from multiple fire departments. No injuries were reported in Stanstead, while the presence of an ambulance was confirmed in Magog.

The more complex of the two occurred Wednesday night at a border-straddling apartment building on Lee Street in Stanstead. According to Dany Brus, a regional fire chief and spokesperson for the response, emergency services received the call at 10:03 p.m., at the same time as the Derby Line Fire Department across the border in Vermont.

“The building sits right on the line—part of it in Canada, part in the U.S.,” said Brus. “We were fighting the same fire.”

Crews from Stanstead, Derby Line, and Newport responded quickly. Upon arrival, they found the fire had already spread from the back porch into the first and second floors and the roof. “It was quite violent at first,” Brus said.

The effort was led by Stanstead Fire Chief Chris Goodsell, who managed the scene alongside U.S. counterparts. About 40 to 50 firefighters worked in tandem to contain the fire to the section of the building where it started. “The crews did an amazing job stopping and containing the fire so it didn’t spread to the other half,” said Brus.

The fire caused heavy damage to two units of the seven-apartment complex. Fortunately, all occupants—American residents—had been evacuated before firefighters arrived, thanks to quick-thinking neighbours who heard an explosion and raised the alarm. “Everybody was out when we showed up,” said Brus. “Thanks to good neighbours who heard the boom and got people out of bed.”

The origin of the fire is still under investigation. Residents reported hearing an explosion, possibly from a propane tank or barbecue on the back porch. “We think it might be a propane tank, but that’s just speculation at this point,” Brus noted.

Because the incident spanned the international border, both the RCMP and U.S. Border Patrol were present to secure the area and unlock a gate on Lee Street, allowing crews easier access.

On Friday morning, fire crews were again mobilized—this time to a blaze at a large home on Chemin Bordeleau near Lake Lovering in Magog. While the Magog Fire Department led the intervention, Stanstead Township provided mutual aid, focusing on water supply.

“It was a big house set back from the lake,” said Stanstead Township Fire Chief Brian Wharry. “We had four tankers shuttling water from about four or five kilometres away.” Trucks could not get close enough to the shoreline to draw water directly, so crews deployed portable ponds and used pumps to feed the trucks.

“We set up a portable pump in the lake and pumped directly into one of their trucks,” Wharry explained. “That gives you about 500 gallons a minute, but they needed more than that.”

Wharry could not confirm if anyone was hurt, although he knows an ambulance was dispatched to the location. The cause of the fire is still under investigation by the Magog Fire Department.

The Stanstead fire also marked the first deployment of Stanstead Township’s new rehabilitation and decontamination unit, designed to limit firefighter exposure to contaminants. “It went well,” said Wharry. “It was our first house fire using that truck.”

Though separate, the two incidents highlight the importance of collaboration among regional fire departments—and in Stanstead’s case, even international cooperation. Chief Goodsell later summarized the border incident on social media, according to Brus: “Two departments, two countries, two 911 services, two hydro companies—but one fire.”

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Harold F. Baldwin Park, nestled in the hills of Baldwin Mills near Coaticook, has unveiled its 2025 edition of Les Rendez-vous du Pinacle—a season-long series of guided activities designed to connect visitors to both the natural world and their own well-being. Running from June through October, the initiative offers birdwatching, stargazing, citizen science, climbing, forest mindfulness walks, and more.

“This year’s programming is really focused on physical and mental wellness, along with science-based environmental education,” explained park general manager Mathieu Fontaine in a recent interview. “We’re trying to give visitors a different way to engage with the mountain beyond just reaching the summit.”

The Rendez-vous series includes six confirmed events, beginning June 7 with an ornithology walk led by a birding expert from Sherbrooke. Participants will learn to identify local species by sight and sound during a two-hour guided hike on the mountain’s wooded trails.

“We want people to see the forest differently,” said Fontaine. “A lot of the time, you hear the birds but you never see them—this activity helps decode that experience.”

Other highlights include:

• July 18: An evening exploration du ciel étoilé (starry sky exploration) atop the mountain, where participants will use telescopes and binoculars to study constellations and star clusters.
• August 2: A citizen science workshop with a Université de Sherbrooke bioecology professor and park board member, introducing tools like the Merlin Bird ID app and other biodiversity tracking platforms.
• August 16: A rock-climbing initiation experience for beginners with a certified instructor, offering an introduction to ascending and rappelling along the mountain’s rocky face.
• September 13: A marche méditative (meditative walk) culminating in a mindfulness exercise at the summit, guided by a psychologist practising nature-based therapy.
• October 11: A fall foliage celebration dubbed La folie des couleurs, inviting participants to experience the park’s vibrant autumn scenery.

All activities are led by qualified professionals, and each has been developed to align with the park’s dual mission of ecological preservation and public education. Fontaine noted that by offering immersive experiences, the park hopes to foster a deeper appreciation for conservation among visitors.

“Everything we do is grounded in science. We’re not interested in pseudo-medicine or vague wellness trends,” said Fontaine. “Whether it’s bioecology or mental health, we want to present content that’s meaningful and evidence-based.”

The park, more commonly known as Mont Pinacle, covers 63 hectares and includes a network of popular hiking trails leading up to a 665-metre summit that offers panoramic views of Lake Lyster and the surrounding region. Operated by a non-profit, the site has become a sought-after destination for hikers from across Quebec.

To protect the fragile ecosystems around the trails, Fontaine confirmed that the park continues to require visitors to book entry slots online in advance. “We’ve seen a huge increase in traffic since the pandemic,” he said. “Pre-registration helps us control the flow for safety and conservation purposes.”

Trail conditions are currently good, despite heavy rains earlier in the season, and Fontaine said maintenance crews have ensured the main routes remain accessible. “There might be the occasional puddle on some of the lower paths, but overall, everything is solid and ready for summer.”

Because many of the events take place in small groups or in remote areas of the park, spots are limited and must be reserved in advance through the park’s website. While activities are conducted in French, Fontaine has confirmed that facilitators will be able answer the questions of English-speaking participants upon request.

“We’re hoping to make the Rendez-vous an annual fixture,” Fontaine added. “It’s already been running for a few years, but this year we’re really formalizing it—something people can look forward to every summer.”

For full programming details or to make a reservation, visit parchfbaldwin.com/rendez-vous-du-pinacle.

William Crooks
Ruth and Derwyn McKinven, along with their son Trevor, stand proudly in front of the Piggery Theatre—a place their family helped revive and has nurtured for over two decades

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

North Hatley’s iconic Piggery Theatre is celebrating its 60th anniversary this summer, and those behind its continued existence say its story is far from over.

Founded in 1965 by English theatre enthusiast and New York transplant Marjory Virgin, the Piggery was built inside a converted pig barn on her summer property. Her vision was simple but ambitious: to create a space for high-calibre English-language theatre in the Eastern Townships. The building, rustic but atmospheric, offered a perfect home for what became an enduring cultural hub. Though the programming has shifted over the decades, the theatre’s role as a cherished gathering place remains.

“My grandfather worked for Mrs. Virgin as a farm manager after coming over from Scotland in the ’50s,” said Trevor McKinven, a local artist and long-time Piggery contributor. “Later, in 2003, when the place was struggling after bankruptcy, I got a call to help bring it back. One thing led to another, and my parents got involved. Now we basically run the place.”

The McKinven family’s efforts helped resuscitate the venue at a time when it was on the brink of permanent closure. From installing seating to securing acts and handling sound, McKinven wears many hats at the Piggery. “It’s really a team effort,” he said. “We take pride in what we’ve built.”

He recalls the early 2000s as a turning point. “Johnny Reid came and put us on the map. Then came the Haggard boys. We found our groove with music,” McKinven said. Though the theatre was originally known for its stage plays, the transition to concerts and events was partly a financial necessity. “Plays are expensive. You look at the budgets from back in the day — posters, actors, everything. Some runs averaged 50 people in a 260-seat house. It wasn’t sustainable.”

The Piggery’s 2025 season, officially its 60th, is full of special programming meant to celebrate its storied past while looking ahead. Historical displays, screenings of vintage footage, and storytelling events are all part of the schedule. Some of the video clips, discovered in a dusty attic, include scenes from the Ayer’s Cliff Fair and Lake Massawippi from the 1950s. “We’ll be showing those and setting up a little museum in the lobby,” said McKinven. “It’s a window into what the Townships looked like back then.”

McKinven is also starting a Piggery Podcast to share interviews, anecdotes, and audio archives from the venue’s long history. “I want to capture some of the magic that makes this place what it is,” he explained.

The season’s opening event is a collaboration with Write Here Write Now (WHWN), a local creative writing collective currently sponsored by Grace Village. Their performance, titled “More than Words,” will feature five short plays and a selection of poetry and prose. “It’s a win-win,” said WHWN coordinator Jan Draper. “Writers get to showcase their work, and all donations from the event go to support the Piggery.”

Draper, who has guided the group through multiple transitions since it began as a Townshippers’ Association project in 2016, said the Piggery was an obvious choice for the performance. “It’s rare to find a venue with this much character that’s also affordable. We knew it was a special place the moment we walked in.”

The Saturday afternoon event is structured to be dynamic and accessible. “There are five short plays — none longer than 10 minutes — and a variety of readings, so the pace should keep things fun and engaging,” Draper said. Local vocalist Carolyn Benway will sing “Happy Birthday” to the theatre, and long-time community figure Mead Baldwin will deliver remarks on the Piggery’s history during intermission.

Draper also noted the group is working on a new anthology on the theme of resistance, and plans are underway for a video project featuring readings by group members. “We’ve been working with Kasimir MacDougall at Bishop’s to teach people how to record at home using Zoom and their phones,” she said. “The idea is to produce a clean, professional video that showcases local talent.”

Looking ahead to the fall, WHWN hopes to experiment further with the Zoom platform to produce virtual plays. “We want to explore what theatre on Zoom could really be,” Draper said. “Not as a compromise, but as a real creative form.”

Back at the Piggery, other birthday initiatives are in the works. A local brewery in North Hatley is developing a special-edition Piggery ale for the season, and McKinven is selling limited-edition prints of artwork he originally created for the theatre’s 50th anniversary. “We’re not a big-budget operation,” he said. “But we get it done. I think we’ve brought more people through here in the last 20 years than in the three decades before. And we’re still having fun.”

One memorable event that stands out for Draper involved a Rotary Club fundraiser featuring Sherbrooke-based singer Tim Brink. “Graham Moodie had been supporting him, and Tim owed him a concert,” she explained. “The Piggery gave us the space for free, and all proceeds went to Rotary’s PolioPlus program. With matching funds from the Gates Foundation, we raised $10,000 that night. It was something special.”

From Dracula in the 1970s to spoken-word poetry in 2025, the Piggery has long embraced variety. Draper remembers attending campy productions as a teenager and seeing cutting-edge Montreal groups like Instant Theatre perform. “It’s had its phases,” she said, “but it’s always been a place that welcomes the community.”

“The story of the Piggery isn’t finished,” Draper added. “It’s just entering another act.”

William Crooks
Members of the Association des locataires de Sherbrooke and supporters gather outside the group’s Conseil Street offices on May 28 to call for urgent action to help renters facing housing insecurity ahead of July 1

Sherbrooke tenants urge action ahead of July 1 housing crunch

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

With Quebec’s traditional moving day approaching on July 1, housing advocates in Sherbrooke are sounding the alarm about a deepening crisis that could leave vulnerable renters without shelter. At a press conference held May 28 by the Association des locataires de Sherbrooke (ALS), organizers called on the City and the municipal housing office to urgently step in and assist tenants struggling to find housing.

“We held this press conference to let renters know that if they haven’t found a place for July 1, there are still services available,” said representative Normand Couture. “People are homeless all year round—we need to remember that.”

The ALS’s key message was clear: no household should end up on the street. “Our priority is to make sure that no renter is left without a home,” said Mario Mercier, another spokesperson for the association. “All renters should have found a roof over their heads by July 1. But with the housing crisis, not everyone has equal access.”

Mercier urged residents in difficulty to immediately contact the Office municipal d’habitation (OMH), which manages emergency supports like temporary accommodations and storage for furniture. “You can call the OMH to get help—get your belongings stored, get support to find housing, and get through this crisis,” he said in an interview after the conference. “There’s guidance available.”

He also criticized the use of restrictive eligibility rules. “The number of people who are unhoused has become a political issue. Sometimes criteria are added just to deny people help,” Mercier said. “But we believe the only criterion should be: are you unhoused? If yes, you should get immediate and full support to get back on your feet.”

During the press conference, speakers expressed frustration at the lack of provincial investment in social housing. “The Minister of Housing claims the situation is under control, but there wasn’t a single new dollar for social housing in the last budget,” one said.

Rental costs, they added, are forcing people to stay put out of fear. “People aren’t moving anymore—not because they’re happy where they are, but because they’re scared of ending up on the street,” one speaker noted. “Rents on the market are 40 to 50 per cent higher than they were just a few years ago.”

The psychological and financial toll was underscored by Linda Gosselin, who shared her experience of nearly becoming homeless six years ago. “I had to move for July 1, but I’d been searching for three months and couldn’t find anything,” she said in an interview. “The more time passed, the more hopeless it felt.”

With help from the ALS, Gosselin was placed in a motel and her belongings were put into storage. “We made calls every day, but everything was either too expensive or didn’t meet my needs,” she recalled. Eventually, a neighbour in a nearby co-op read her story in the paper and contacted the association. That led to an accessible, affordable unit becoming available.

“I ended up spending about a month effectively homeless, with nowhere to go but the motel,” she said. “The months before that were full of anxiety. I didn’t know if I’d have a place, or if I’d lose everything I owned.”

Gosselin says the support she received made a lasting difference. “The association called me every day, helped me stay hopeful. Mario even helped pack boxes and dismantle furniture. Today, six years later, I’m in a stable place, and I feel like myself again.”

The ALS is also calling on Sherbrooke city councillors to vote against the proposed sale of the Sainte-Famille church to a private buyer. “We’ve been asking that the Sainte-Famille church be used for social housing,” Mercier said. “If it’s sold to the private sector, we’ll end up with units that cost $1,200 or $1,600 a month—and that doesn’t solve the crisis.”

A public demonstration is planned for Friday, May 30, beginning at 980 rue Conseil in the Fleurimont borough. Protesters will march to the Sainte-Famille site to demand that the building be preserved for affordable housing. The demonstration will be followed by community activities and a free lunch.

“Let’s not forget why we’re here,” Mercier told the crowd. “We want the City to offer services to all tenants who find themselves on the street—without eligibility criteria. That’s the reason we came together today.”

He closed with a call to action: “We’re asking people to contact the OMH now, not at the last minute. Help exists—but you have to ask. And we’ll keep fighting to make sure it’s available to everyone.”

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Eastern Townships School Board (ETSB) Council of Commissioners met on May 27 in a wide-ranging session chaired by Michael Murray, where commissioners approved new vocational programs, infrastructure upgrades, and discussed a possible response to Quebec’s proposed school cell phone ban.

The meeting opened with several recognitions, including a Quebec English School Board Association (QESBA) award for Brome-Missisquoi Campus and a bronze medal performance by ETSB student Anthony Minotti in industrial mechanics at the provincial Olympiades québécoises. Field trips and student showcases were also celebrated, with Chair Murray highlighting Massey-Vanier’s sold-out Kaleidoscope performances as “fantastic.”

New trucking and tinsmithing programs approved

Among the most substantial items of business was the approval of two new vocational programs. The ETSB will officially seek authorization from Quebec’s Ministry of Education to offer “Trucking 5791” and “Tinsmithing 5860” at its vocational training centres. The trucking program, long delivered through a partner board in the Laurentians, will now be formally hosted by ETSB.

“We’re finally reaching a point where we want to have the card, as they call it—official recognition that we’re delivering this training,” said Murray. He emphasized the importance of English-language vocational options, particularly given new U.S. regulations requiring commercial drivers to demonstrate English proficiency.

Vocational promotions and welding program receive major funding

The Council also moved to award a $99,000 contract to Beauvoir to produce vocational training promotion videos, part of a $106,000 initiative funded by Quebec and coordinated across all English school boards. “We got a hundred thousand dollars,” noted Director General Kandy Mackey. “It’s for all English school boards in Canada.”

In addition, commissioners approved over $500,000 in new equipment purchases for a welding and assembly program to be jointly run with the Centre de services scolaire du Val-des-Cerfs. The upgrades include collaborative welding robots and tool replacements at both the Lennoxville Vocational Training Centre and Campus Brome-Missisquoi.

“Are we getting gold-plated equipment?” joked Murray, to laughter, before noting the heavy investment reflects the province’s emphasis on industry-ready training.

Cell phone ban not yet addressed locally

Parent representatives raised the topic of Quebec’s upcoming cell phone ban in elementary and secondary classrooms. According to a report from the Central Parents Committee, the ETSB is currently “waiting for all the information to be received before taking a position.”

Commissioners were told the matter would return for discussion in a future meeting, once provincial guidelines and legal clarifications are finalized.

Strong focus on air quality and infrastructure upgrades

Significant investments were approved for facility improvements, particularly through eco-energetic projects aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality in schools. A total of 13 schools will benefit from ventilation and cooling upgrades, with overall costs in the millions.

“These are worthy improvements,” said Murray. “Ten of our schools will benefit from cooling in May, June, September, and maybe October. It’s important to point that out.”

Several of the oldest ETSB schools, some more than 150 years old, are included. Despite aging infrastructure, Murray noted, “I would not be ashamed to show any of our schools to visitors—they are clean, proactive, and appealing.”

Purchase approvals for student wellness and teaching tools

Commissioners also approved $100,000 in materials for nurturing support centres, promoting student wellness through calming tools, sensory items, and literature. Another $100,000 was allocated for classroom materials supporting critical thinking, and a third $100,000 for math manipulatives across the board.

All three initiatives are funded through the Canada–Quebec Entente (ECQ) and are conditional on final grant approvals.

Meeting schedule and governance changes

The Council set its 2025–26 meeting schedule, maintaining its tradition of meeting on the fourth Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m., except in December.

Commissioners also voted unanimously to approve the 2025–26 administrative structure, following consultations with the Eastern Townships Association of Administrators. Temporary hiring powers were delegated to the Director General for the summer.

Final reflections

In closing remarks, Murray emphasized optimism amid uncertainty. “Despite the anticipated compression challenges, our departments remain focused,” he said. “Our staff show continuous professional growth and commitment to student success.”

He also added a more philosophical note, reminding commissioners to resist the daily “tsunami of negativity.” He urged them to “seek out the positive” and celebrate ETSB students “choosing the exciting prospect of growth.”

The next ETSB council meeting, which can be attended online, is scheduled for June.

William Crooks
Loïc Lahaie signs his three-year professional boxing contract with Groupe Yvon Michel at the Club de boxe de Sherbrooke, marking a new chapter in his promising career

Sherbrooke boxer officially turns pro with three-year deal

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Sherbrooke’s Club de boxe took centre stage once again as local boxer Loïc Lahaie officially signed a three-year professional contract with Groupe Yvon Michel (GYM), one of Canada’s most prominent boxing promotion companies. The announcement was made during a press conference held May 27 at the gym’s location at 4300 Bourque Blvd., marking a major milestone in both Lahaie’s career and the gym’s 50th anniversary celebrations.

Lahaie, a product of Sherbrooke’s sports-study boxing program, has already made waves in the professional ring with two decisive victories. “Bring them on,” he told the assembled media. “I don’t want easy fights… I haven’t even shown 75 per cent of my talent yet.” Known for his discipline and mental strength, Lahaie has demonstrated his readiness to compete at the highest levels, winning all four rounds in each of his first two bouts.

His promoter, Yvon Michel, recalled their first meetings more than a year ago, when Lahaie was still an amateur. “We looked at his potential, his charisma, his discipline — all the things that matter outside the ring as much as inside it,” Michel said. After watching Lahaie handle two tough opponents in his first pro fights — one an experienced Ukrainian, the other a Mexican fighter with a 3-0 record and over a hundred amateur bouts — GYM was convinced.

Bernard Barré, GYM’s recruitment and development specialist, confirmed the decision was not taken lightly. “Sherbrooke has produced many great boxers,” Barré said, naming past talents like Robert Guimond and Marc Blanchette. “Loïc is different — he has the potential to go all the way.” According to Barré, Lahaie’s amateur record includes over 70 fights, with about 50 wins, five appearances at the Canadian championships, and a spot on the national team in 2024.

Lahaie’s path to professionalism has not been without challenges. He fell just short of Olympic qualification, losing a close 3-2 decision to Canada’s current national champion. But that didn’t deter him. Instead, he went on to fight in France, where he beat an undefeated local boxer and the French national champion. He also performed strongly in Puerto Rico, sparring with a heavier, undefeated professional. “Those were key experiences,” Lahaie said. “They showed me I’m built for this sport.”

Yvon Michel praised not only Lahaie’s skills but also the strength of his support system. “After my meeting with Franklin, Jean, and Marcel, and especially after Loïc himself called me, full of passion and drive, I had no doubt we needed to sign him.”

Franklin Dorey, one of Lahaie’s long-time coaches and the event’s organizer, described the young boxer as a role model for the next generation. “Loïc is a great person with a strong personality. I’ve watched him grow since he was in Grade 7. He’s ready, mature, and has what it takes to make a name for himself.”

Jean Gauthier and Stéphane Monast, both veteran coaches at the Club de boxe de Sherbrooke, were also present to show their support. “He’s our star,” Monast said. “And I’m proud to have worked with him all these years.”

The announcement comes at a significant moment for the club, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year. Founded by Marcel Toulouse and Pierre Gagné, the club has been a fixture in the city’s sports landscape since 1974. A special dinner is planned for early July to commemorate the milestone.

As the pen hit the contract page, Michel smiled and told those gathered, “Today, we’re not just signing a fighter. We’re signing the future.”

Lahaie’s next bout — a six-rounder — is already in the works. As he steps into this next chapter, Sherbrooke’s boxing community is watching with high hopes. “Put someone in front of me,” Lahaie said. “I’ll win. That’s just how I think — and that’s not going to change.”

Courtesy
The 2025 MCI patrol team—Chanel Racine-Mineault, Angélique Guillemette, Gabrielle Bousada, Maëlie Massé, and Sélina Rodrigue—out on Lake Memphrémagog as they begin a summer of environmental monitoring and public outreach

Memphrémagog Conservation Inc.’s patrol team hits the water for summer 2025

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

With the summer season underway, the Memphrémagog Conservation Inc. (MCI) patrol team is back on the water and along the shores of Lake Memphrémagog for its 53rd consecutive year, tackling everything from invasive species to shoreline development monitoring.

The 2025 patrol team is made up of five members, including biologist and project manager Chanel Racine-Mineault, who is coordinating the effort. “Our role is really multifaceted,” Racine-Mineault said in a recent interview. “We do scientific research, raise awareness, respond to environmental incidents, and work directly with shoreline residents to help them adopt practices that protect the lake.”

Joining her are assistant coordinator Angélique Guillemette, a technician in bioecology, and three university students studying ecology: Gabrielle Bousada, Maëlie Massé, and Sélina Rodrigue.

According to MCI, the patrol’s mission this summer will involve a wide range of initiatives, including monitoring water quality, identifying aquatic plants and exotic species, and responding to citizen concerns such as cyanobacterial blooms. The team also keeps a close eye on real estate development and construction around the lake.

“This year we’re particularly focused on shoreline revegetation and working with property owners who want to make their lots more ecologically friendly,” said Racine-Mineault. “We’ve already had several requests for consultations, which is great to see.”

The patrol also serves as an educational resource, setting up kiosks at community events, updating MCI’s social media platforms, and welcoming the media for interviews. “Communication is a big part of what we do,” she explained. “People often don’t realize how their everyday actions—like mowing too close to the shore or using fertilizers—can affect water quality.”

Working seven days a week during the summer months, patrol members travel by boat and vehicle across the watershed, which spans areas both in Quebec and just across the U.S. border. The international nature of the lake adds another layer of complexity to the work. “We also collaborate with the American group DUMP—Don’t Undermine Memphrémagog Purity—especially on issues like the Coventry landfill site in Vermont,” Racine-Mineault noted.

That topic will be one of the focal points at MCI’s upcoming Annual General Meeting on Saturday, June 14 at 9:30 a.m., taking place in the Ovila-Bergeron room of the Magog community centre. The meeting will review the past year’s accomplishments and ongoing projects and will include a presentation on the landfill site, which has long raised concerns about potential contamination of the lake. Representatives from DUMP are also expected to attend.

Only MCI members in good standing will be able to vote during the AGM, and the organization is encouraging anyone interested in becoming more involved to sign up or renew their membership ahead of time.

In addition to the patrol’s return and the AGM, MCI is currently hiring for two positions in communications and science popularization. The goal is to enhance public understanding of the lake’s ecological issues and support the organization’s outreach efforts year-round. Applications are due by May 29.

“Everything we do is about creating a culture of stewardship,” said Racine-Mineault. “Lake Memphrémagog is an incredibly valuable natural resource—not just for Magog, but for the entire region. We want to make sure it stays healthy for generations to come.”

For more information on the patrol, the AGM, or employment opportunities, visit www.memphremagog.org or contact the team directly at 819-620-3939. The patrol can also be reached by email at patrouille@memphremagog.org.

This summer, if you see a boat with young scientists aboard taking samples or offering advice, it’s likely the MCI patrol—keeping watch over the lake, one shoreline at a time.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In what lawyer Robert Kugler described as a “significant, important judgment in terms of the respect of the rule of law,” the Quebec Superior Court has ordered the provincial government to pay $164 million in damages to roughly 24,000 individuals who were illegally detained between 2015 and 2020. The amount, including interest, is expected to climb to around $240 million, one of the largest such awards in Quebec history.

The judgment, issued last Wednesday, stems from a class action launched by the law firm Kugler Kandestin on behalf of individuals who were held for more than 24 hours before seeing a judge—an explicit violation of both Canadian and Quebec Charter rights.

The Canadian Criminal Code is clear: when a person is arrested and police determine they cannot be released, they must be brought before a court “as soon as possible and in all cases within 24 hours.” But from 2015 to 2020, Quebec failed to provide court appearances on Sundays and statutory holidays.

The result? Thousands of people—many of them marginalized and vulnerable—were left to languish in police holding cells for up to 48 hours or more. According to Kugler, those cells are ill-equipped for long-term detention, with harsh lighting, no showers, no television, and limited access to sleeping accommodations.

“Even if the judge ends up deciding a person needs to be detained further, they’re transferred to a proper detention facility with better conditions,” Kugler explained in an interview. “And if the judge determines they should be released, they get a court date and can go free. Either way, the delay harms them.”

Kugler described the 24-hour rule as “the cornerstone of criminal procedure,” adding that it protects two fundamental rights: the right to liberty and the presumption of innocence. The absence of appearances on Sundays and holidays, he said, was a knowing violation of these rights by the Quebec government.

“Decisions from all levels of court, going back decades, have emphasized the importance of this rule,” Kugler said. “But the Quebec government chose to ignore that.”

The class action, initially authorized several years ago, was also filed against the municipalities of Montreal and Quebec City. Those two cities chose to settle out of court, and their settlements were approved by the court. But the province opted to fight the case in a month-long trial held earlier this year.

In its 155-page ruling, the court found that the provincial government had knowingly violated the rights of thousands of individuals, and only instituted Sunday and holiday appearances once the class action was filed.

“The court found the government acted primarily out of budgetary concerns,” Kugler said. “And they tried to blame judges or the police, but the judgment clearly stated the responsibility lies with the government itself for not putting a system in place to uphold people’s rights.”

Each affected individual is entitled to $7,000 in damages. While the per-person amount is not large, Kugler said, the sheer number of people impacted makes the award substantial.

The class action remains open. Because it is certified, no one needs to formally register to be included, but affected individuals are encouraged to contact Kugler Kandestin to provide their information and receive updates. At the time of publication, the government had not yet paid out the judgment and has the right to appeal.

“Whether they’ll appeal or not, we don’t know,” Kugler said. “But the longer they wait, the more interest accumulates.”

Kugler emphasized that the case should serve as a reminder of the importance of upholding civil liberties, even when it’s inconvenient or costly. “We’re very proud of this result. It’s a long-overdue recognition of the harm suffered by thousands of people in Quebec.”

Individuals who believe they were detained in similar circumstances can contact Kugler Kandestin’s office and ask for the Makoma class action team. Further details are available on the firm’s website.

Linda Hoy
Recipients of the Lampe Foundation’s spring 2025 scholarships and awards gather for a group photo following the May 21 ceremony in Sherbrooke, where $40,200 was distributed to students across the Eastern Townships

Lampe Foundation expands its legacy with new scholarships and heartfelt tributes

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Lampe Foundation marked another milestone on May 21 with the presentation of 28 scholarships and awards, totalling $40,200, to students across the Eastern Townships. The spring awards ceremony, held in Lennoxville, also paid special tribute to longtime supporter and renowned broadcaster Dian Cohen, who passed away a few weeks ago. “She was instrumental in growing the reach of the Lampe Foundation,” said Sharon Priest, a volunteer leader with Lampe. “She will be sorely missed by Lampe and all who knew her.”

Founded over 30 years ago, the Lampe Foundation operates as the charitable arm of Canadian Federation of University Women (CFUW) Sherbrooke & District. Entirely volunteer-run and funded without government support, the Foundation focuses on providing financial and mentorship support to students pursuing post-secondary education. Since 1993, Lampe has distributed more than $650,000 in awards, with funds raised through donations, partnerships, and community support.

Three new scholarships were unveiled this year, each representing unique partnerships and personal legacies.

The Golden Rule Chapter #1 Royal Arch Masons Scholarship was established to mark the Masons’ 200th anniversary. It is earmarked for a Bishop’s University student with aspirations in architecture or engineering. Originally set at $1,200, the award was increased to $1,500 just before the ceremony. “The student didn’t know the amount had been raised,” said Priest. “It was quite exciting to make that surprise announcement thanks to the continued fundraising efforts of the Masons.”

Another new award is the Melissa Bowman-Pieters Athletic Scholarship, created in memory of Bowman-Pieters, a passionate athlete who excelled in varsity soccer at both the CEGEP and university levels. The scholarship is awarded to a student-athlete from the Eastern Townships enrolled in CEGEP or university and playing varsity sports. “She was the daughter of our president and someone many of us remember fondly,” said Priest. “It means a great deal to see her memory honoured this way.”

The third is the Lampe-Tillotson Champlain Science Scholarship, created in collaboration with the Tillotson Coaticook Region Fund. It supports a graduating student from Champlain College Lennoxville who is pursuing university studies in science. The scholarship reflects Lampe’s continued investment in students from rural areas and its commitment to supporting youth in STEM fields.

In addition to these new offerings, Lampe continues to fund dozens of long-standing awards. In 2024 alone, the Foundation gave out 52 awards totalling $61,250 across vocational training centres, CEGEPs, universities, and high schools. Financial support was bolstered by $61,373 in investment revenue and $41,221 in donations, according to Lampe’s Fast Facts financial summary.

Award winners were previously featured in local media in both May and November, highlighting the stories and aspirations of students from across the region. This spring’s ceremony continued that tradition while celebrating Lampe’s evolving legacy.

“Over the past 30 years, we’ve grown from a modest fund of $20,000 to more than $1.1 million,” said Priest. “We’ve seen hard times—COVID was tough—but the community continues to step up. These new endowed scholarships are a testament to that.”

Lampe’s impact extends beyond dollars and cents. As the charitable foundation for CFUW Sherbrooke & District, it provides a framework of support to students who demonstrate leadership potential and dedication to their communities. “It’s about more than funding,” said Priest. “It’s about encouraging students to become the future leaders and professionals our region needs.”

More information, including the full 2024 Report to Community, will be posted at www.lampefoundation.org when available.

Record archives
Rev. Scott Patton set to retire after 34 years in ministry

Rev. Scott Patton reflects on retirement and the future of the United Church

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

As the United Church of Canada prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary this year, Rev. Scott Patton is also marking a milestone of his own: retirement after 34 years in ministry. Having served congregations from Toronto to Montreal and, most recently, in the Eastern Townships, Patton brings to a close a career shaped by persistence, progress, and deep community ties.

“It’s been a wonderful experience,” Patton said in an interview reflecting on his time in ministry. “This has been the first time I’ve ever had a pastoral care-only position—and also the first time I’ve worked as part of a team.”

Patton moved to the Townships four years ago, taking up a half-time pastoral care role based primarily at the Wales Home. “I was hoping to retire at 61,” he said, “but I found out the pension penalty would cost me 16 per cent. So, the half-time position was perfect—it helped me bridge those final years.” That opportunity came through an unexpected phone call even before he arrived in the area, when a retiring chaplain offered to pass along the role.

Soon after settling in, Patton became one of four lay worship leaders at Lennoxville United Church, along with his partner Rev. Ron Coughlin, Jamie Crooks, and Bruce Gilbert. Originally intended as a temporary solution following the departure of then-minister Linda Buchanan, the shared ministry extended to three years. “The congregation loves it,” Patton said. “But I think the church really needs a full-time minister. There’s a lot more to ministry than Sunday worship.”

Looking back over his decades of service, Patton highlighted the long-term relationships he formed in each community. “I’ve always prided myself on lingering,” he said. “Some people move on every few years—I stayed 14 years in east Toronto and 11 years in Montréal.” His impact remains tangible. One longtime congregant from Summerlea United Church in Lachine, where he served from 2010 to 2021, recently requested that Patton return to officiate her funeral. He’ll travel back to Montreal in June to do just that.

Patton’s career also coincided with transformative changes in the denomination. Ordained in 1990, his candidacy was marked by debate over his sexual orientation. “There was a lot of consternation,” he recalled. “But I made it through all that and carried on.” His journey reflects the United Church’s broader evolution—having become, in 1988, the first denomination in North America to welcome LGBTQ2S+ individuals into ordained ministry.

That legacy of inclusion is at the heart of this year’s 100th anniversary celebrations. Locally, the St. Francis area United Churches will gather June 1 at St. Paul’s United Church in Magog for a special regional service. The event will feature a mass choir, eight area ministers, and a sermon by broadcaster Royal Orr, followed by a community potluck. “We’re expecting about 150 people,” said Rev. Ron Coughlin recently to The Record. “All 12 churches in our cluster are contributing—each bringing something for the table.”

For Patton, the centennial is both a time to reflect and to look ahead. “It’s important to remember how it all started,” he said. “The philosophy of churches uniting still matters. In Australia, they have a Uniting Church—they see it as an ongoing process. I think we should, too.”

He also acknowledged that this is a moment of transition. “The United Church is very different now than even 30 years ago,” he said. “We need to look forward, not just back.” At a recent service in Lennoxville, a regional council guest spoke about embracing new directions, including more bilingual services and outward-focused ministry. “Lennoxville United has already identified that as the path it wants to take,” Patton said. “But it’s all very new.”

Now, as he steps away from official duties, Patton looks forward to a quieter rhythm. He plans to spend time with family in what he calls “Patton Corners”—a potential nickname he and locals have given the tightly-knit cluster of relatives near his home. He’ll also return to his hobby of model car building in a loft above the garage of the house his brother and nephew built.

“I’m not worried about being bored,” he said. “I’ll be walking the dog, appreciating the beauty of this area, and doing all the things I couldn’t when I was working.”

With that, Patton leaves behind a legacy of compassion, resilience, and quiet leadership—one that mirrors the very values the United Church of Canada was founded on a century ago.

William Crooks
François Danis (Tremplin 16-30), Denise Godbout (Habitations de l’Équerre), Geneviève Houde (Tremplin 16-30), Bertrand Takam (property owner), Joe Hawthorn (youth representative), and Line Thibault (La Source-Soleil) gathered at the QG de l’Entrepreneuriat to address Sherbrooke’s youth housing crisis

Sherbrooke youth testify to urgent need for affordable housing

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The mounting housing crisis in Sherbrooke is hitting young people especially hard, as outlined in a press conference held on May 21 by the Concertation logement Sherbrooke (CLS) and the Table de concertation jeunesse de Sherbrooke (TCJS). Speakers including housing advocates, community workers, a local property owner, and a young tenant highlighted the need for urgent, collective action to provide stable, affordable housing for youth in precarious situations.

“This is not just a housing issue—it’s a question of basic rights,” said François Danis of Tremplin 16-30, who called for housing to be treated as a fundamental right on par with health care and education. He urged municipal authorities to commit to having 20 per cent of rental units in Sherbrooke outside the private market, through social housing, cooperatives, and non-profits.

Danis also called for structural changes, including rent control measures, abolishing lease loopholes that allow unlimited increases in new constructions, and the creation of a permanent municipal housing committee.

The personal stakes of the crisis were brought home in a harrowing testimony by Joe Hawthorn, a young man who spent months in unsafe, unaffordable living conditions before ending up in a shelter. “I stayed in a violent shared apartment because I had nowhere else to go. My mental and physical health deteriorated until I experienced several suicidal crises,” Hawthorn said. He eventually took an overpriced and poorly located unit, spending more than 75 per cent of his income on rent.

“There are no direct bus lines to the city centre evenings or weekends. I’m completely socially isolated,” he said. Although he later qualified for a rent supplement, the long wait left him with mounting debt and damaged credit. “The suffering of people waiting for housing is unnecessary,” he said. “We know the solutions—rent control, social housing—but profits are being prioritized over life.”

Line Thibault, director of La Source-Soleil, confirmed that in February 2022, at least 250 young people in Sherbrooke were in a housing emergency, with numbers expected to have risen since. “Young people living on social assistance or student aid simply cannot afford average rents in Sherbrooke, which exceed $800 for a one-bedroom,” she said. “Even when housing is available, they face discrimination, lack credit history, or can’t afford basic furnishings.”

Thibault also outlined the support systems in place, including the Programme qualification jeunesse (PQJ), Aire ouverte, Tremplin 16-30, Maison Jeunesse, and Projet APPART—all of which offer accompaniment, health services, transitional housing, and social reintegration. “But these resources are still poorly known by the public and especially by landlords,” she added.

One of those landlords, Bertrand Takam, also spoke. “We could have evicted our tenant many times,” he said of a young person he houses through PQJ, “but we knew he would end up on the street. So, we didn’t.” Takam and his spouse are currently working on developing new affordable studio units for youth and are seeking community partnerships to make the project viable. “We don’t ask about credit. We just open the door.”

Denise Godbout of Habitations l’Équerre announced a concrete step forward: 19 new studios at 14 Jean-Maurice will be made available this summer for youth from Tremplin 16-30 and La Source-Soleil, each supported by a rent supplement and community workers. “We are proud to offer these young people a dignified start,” she said.

Geneviève Houde of Tremplin 16-30 explained that the initiative—called Le Milieu—bridges the gap between emergency shelters and fully independent living. “Some youth leaving the youth protection system or hospital are not yet ready to manage a full apartment on their own. This gives them a middle ground, with on-site support and stability.”

With Sherbrooke’s vacancy rate hovering around 1 per cent, the CLS and TCJS concluded by urging more private landlords to step forward. “We need partners who are willing to offer stability to young people,” said organizers. “If you’re building, developing, or just thinking about it—call Projet APPART.”

The groups emphasized that young people must be recognized as full citizens with the same rights to housing as anyone else. “The right to housing must apply to everyone,” said Houde. “Our society has the means to make that happen—what we need now is the will.”

For more information on youth housing support, residents and landlords are invited to contact Projet APPART at 819-791-0400.

William Crooks
Geoffrey Hanson, Jessica Howie, and organizer Rachel Dubuc share a joyful moment at the 24 Juin event in Sherbrooke, where participants with Down syndrome were treated to a day of glamour and celebration

24 Juin event celebrates people with Down syndrome

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A Sherbrooke event on May 21 gave people with Down syndrome the chance to shine in the spotlight — complete with professional hair styling, makeup, and a photo shoot — all aimed at building confidence and inclusion.

Organized by Rachel Dubuc, the initiative took place at the 24 Juin vocational training centre and involved 18 participants, each given the chance to feel like a model for the day. Students from 24 Juin’s hairdressing program styled the guests, creating a welcoming and glamorous atmosphere.

“We did it to help our young participants gain confidence in themselves,” said Dubuc. “People often point out the physical traits that come with Down syndrome, and our members are very aware of how they’re being looked at. This is a way for them to feel included and beautiful.”

Dubuc, who works with Sherbrooke’s Association du Syndrome de Down which provides programs for people with intellectual disabilities, said the idea came out of conversations during regular group activities. “They were saying they felt apart from others, and I thought — why not do something fun that lets them feel proud of who they are?”

Participants had clearly been looking forward to the event. “They’ve been talking about what they’re going to wear and how they’ll walk like a model for a month now,” Dubuc said with a smile. “Their families say they can’t wait for it to be over because that’s all they’ve been talking about!”

One of the participants, Jessica Howie, said the experience made her feel “like a princess, like royalty.” Originally from Saskatchewan, Howie now lives at a group residence in Sherbrooke. “It’s like a family all together,” she explained. “We eat supper together, and there’s a common area to watch shows.”

Howie also helps out with fundraising for events like this one. “We sell Belgian chocolate,” she said. “I help with the cash and write things down. It helps raise money for special events like today.”

Dubuc confirmed that chocolate sales helped fund a professional photo shoot that capped off the day. “We’re certified to make food products, and all of our members take part in the production. It’s how we paid for today’s photographer.”

Geoffrey Hanson, another participant from Lennoxville, said he enjoyed the chance to be a model, even if he was a bit shy about talking. Asked if he liked getting his hair done, he smiled and said, “Yeah, that’s right.”

For Dubuc, the event was also an opportunity for the students at the hairdressing school to have meaningful first contact with people with disabilities. “If they don’t have someone in their family or haven’t had experience, this is a great way for them to feel more comfortable,” she said. “And they’re loving it too — I’ve been talking with them all day.”

The event marked a step forward in community inclusion, bringing together students, families, and people with Down syndrome in an atmosphere of joy and shared respect.

“It’s really just one extra chromosome,” said Dubuc. “But too often it’s treated like a barrier. Today showed what happens when we just treat everyone with care and celebration.”

Sherbrooke researcher examines root causes of intimate partner violence

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A Sherbrooke researcher is taking a deep dive into the root causes of intimate partner violence (IPV) and how to better help those who perpetrate it change their behaviour.

Audrey Brassard, a professor in the Université de Sherbrooke’s Department of Psychology and newly appointed Canada Research Chair in Relationship Distress and Intimate Partner Violence, is leading a wide-ranging research program aimed at understanding why violence happens in intimate relationships and how it can be prevented.

“I’ve been studying intimate relationships since the early 2000s,” Brassard said in an interview with The Record. “Since 2007, I’ve worked in partnership with organizations offering specialized services to perpetrators of IPV. My work focuses on how relationship distress manifests and how we can intervene effectively.”

According to Brassard, the cost of IPV in Canada exceeds $7.4 billion annually, and the long-term impact on both physical and psychological health is significant, contributing to reduced life expectancy and serious emotional trauma.

Her research has shown strong links between experiences of childhood maltreatment—including sexual abuse, physical abuse, neglect and bullying—and adult violent behaviour in intimate relationships. “We see a clear intergenerational transmission of violence,” she said. “When these children grow up, they often struggle with secure attachment and emotional regulation, which increases the risk of abusive behaviours later in life.”

Brassard is particularly interested in what makes therapeutic interventions effective. Through her partnership with À cœur d’homme, a Quebec-wide network of over 30 organizations offering services to people who commit IPV, her team collects over 4,000 questionnaires a year. These are used to generate personalized reports identifying individual risk factors and helping tailor support strategies.

Much of the intervention work currently involves group therapy programs that span several months. “Participants meet weekly to discuss their behaviours, learn to identify emotional triggers, and practise alternatives to violence, like non-violent conflict resolution and empathy development,” Brassard explained.

Her Canada Research Chair will fund ongoing studies into two major areas: mechanisms of change (how people shift away from violent behaviour) and moderators of change (what factors make interventions more or less effective for different people).

While 95 per cent of program clients are men, Brassard emphasizes the need for inclusivity. “There are also women and non-binary individuals seeking help for violent behaviours,” she noted. “Our work includes the experiences of people across the gender and sexual diversity spectrum.”

The scope of violence under study is broad: not just physical, but also psychological, sexual, economic, cyber, and controlling behaviours. Brassard warns that many warning signs are psychological before becoming physical: “Jealousy, possessiveness, controlling behaviour, traditional gender role beliefs, and emotional manipulation are all red flags.”

For those concerned about their own behaviour, Brassard recommends reaching out to local organizations through À cœur d’homme or accessing resources online—though she notes the French-language platform “Prends l’air” currently has no English version.

For victims of IPV, support is available through services like SOS Violence Conjugale and the Centre d’aide aux victimes d’actes criminels (CAVAC). “It’s important to know that help is available for both perpetrators and victims—but through entirely separate services,” she stressed.

Ultimately, Brassard hopes her work contributes to a cultural shift: “My dream is to see intimate partner violence decline significantly, and for Quebec to be a leader in this movement,” she said. “The fact that so many people here seek help voluntarily speaks to the power of awareness and the social rejection of violence.”

For more information on Brassard’s work, visit the Canada Research Chair’s website or the Université de Sherbrooke’s media relations office.

William Crooks
Residents and housing advocates gathered outside the former Sainte-Famille church on May 20 to oppose its proposed sale and call for its transformation into social housing

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A proposal to sell Sherbrooke’s former Sainte-Famille church building is facing strong opposition from local residents and housing advocates, who say the city-owned property should be used for social housing rather than private development.

During a press conference held outside the church on May 20, members of the Sherbrooke tenants’ association and local residents expressed their frustration with a motion introduced earlier this month by Councillor Hélène Dauphinais to put the building back on the market. They argue that the decision risks further privatization of public land and exacerbates an already critical housing crisis.

“It’s a public building. It should serve the public,” said Normand Couture, coordinator of the tenants’ association, during his speech. Couture reminded attendees that the city acquired the church in 2021 with the idea of creating either a public community space or social housing. “We hoped it wouldn’t be bought to join the real estate speculation market,” he said.

Couture explained that two possible projects were previously studied: one for a 30-unit social housing complex and another to establish a public library. Though both options were deemed too expensive, he said the association supported the library plan as a fallback, since it would have at least offered a community resource for low-income families. “Instead, the city rejected both, and now they’re talking about selling,” he said.

Also speaking at the event was a parent of four who described the difficulties of raising a family without access to safe and affordable housing. “We need social housing to feed our children and live with dignity,” she said, pointing out the church’s proximity to schools, a pharmacy, and grocery stores as ideal for family life.

Couture warned that putting the building on the open market would likely result in high-end housing priced well beyond the reach of the community. “What will be built there? Units renting at $1,200, $1,400, even $1,600 per month. That won’t solve the housing crisis—it’ll make it worse,” he said. “We’ve already seen the downtown gentrified. Now they’re coming for another working-class neighbourhood.”

He added that the district around Sainte-Famille is one of the most disadvantaged in the city, with many low- and modest-income residents. “We won’t let this happen quietly.”

The proposal is set to be discussed at a Sherbrooke council plenary meeting, where elected officials review and debate items before they go to a formal vote. Couture and his group have sent letters to all sitting councillors and candidates for the upcoming municipal election, urging them to vote against the sale and to delay any decision until after voters have their say.

“We’ve waited four years—what’s a few more months?” said Couture. “Let the population decide what happens to a building that belongs to us all.”

In the meantime, the group is calling for renewed public discussion and mobilization. They are organizing a march starting at 6 p.m. on Friday, May 30, from the Fleurimont borough office to the church site, with speeches, a symbolic action, and a meal served at the tenants’ association office. “Let’s protect our collective property,” Couture urged.

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Officials from Stanstead, Derby, Derby Line, and U.S. congressional offices pose for a photo outside Derby Line Village Hall following a cross-border meeting on the future of the Haskell Library

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In a cross-border show of goodwill, municipal officials from Stanstead, Quebec, and neighbouring Vermont towns gathered last week to discuss the future of the Haskell Free Library and Opera House—a historic symbol of unity that straddles the Canada–U.S. border.

The meeting, initiated by Brian Smith of Derby, Vermont, brought together members of Stanstead Council, delegates from Derby and Derby Line, and representatives from the offices of U.S. Senator Peter Welch and Congresswoman Becca Balint. Although the federal elected officials themselves were not present, their participation through staff underscored the importance of the conversation.

“There were very positive messages about the relationship between Stanstead and Derby Line, but also between Quebec and Vermont,” said Stanstead Mayor Jody Stone in an interview. “Vermont depends a lot on Quebec for tourism and trade. They feel very strongly about Quebec being a great partner.”

The meeting was not driven by an immediate crisis, but rather by a desire to reinforce long-standing bonds and explore new ways to work together. “It was definitely about solidifying relationships and seeing where we can go with it, rather than just saying, ‘We’re going to stay where we are,’” Stone explained. “Can we improve our relationship? Can we do more together eventually?”

In his public Facebook post following the meeting, Stone emphasized the unity expressed by all participants: “Although we are two distinct towns, we are united as one community. All parties reaffirmed their commitment to mutual friendship and cooperation.”

The Haskell Library, a one-of-a-kind institution built in 1904 with its reading room in Canada and its stage in the U.S., was the symbolic centrepiece of the discussions. Representatives from the library were present, including the board president, councillor Debbie Bishop, and Sylvie Boudreau. While no immediate changes to operations were announced, the meeting served as a platform for dialogue and future collaboration.

“We’ll probably do another meeting at some point,” said Stone. “There’s no timeline yet, but the more we get together, the better we know each other, and the easier it is to do things together down the line.”

The discussion also touched lightly on recent geopolitical tensions and security issues. One participant raised the question of denouncing a controversial statement by U.S. Secretary Kristi Noem, but the consensus was to avoid engaging with divisive issues beyond their control. “Let’s just do work on what we can control,” said Stone, describing the spirit of the conversation. “Even if we try to reach out, we all agree that nothing’s going to change. So, let’s focus on what we can do as our communities.”

Despite political headwinds—such as ongoing tariff disputes—Stone said Stanstead has so far seen limited economic fallout. “The direct impact is fewer people travelling to the U.S.,” he said. “We lose out on all the indirect tourism—people stopping at Tim Hortons… or the duty-free, which is seeing a huge impact.”

Still, industries in Stanstead haven’t been hit directly by tariffs, he noted. For now, the biggest consequence is a quieter border crossing.

The meeting concluded with a collective agreement to keep the dialogue going. “Everybody left feeling good about the future,” said Stone.

A group photo of attendees taken outside Derby Line Village Hall, later shared by the mayor on Facebook, captured the spirit of the day: neighbours with shared history and common goals, meeting not as foreign officials but as members of the same cross-border community.

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Cyclists gather under sunny skies for the 2023 edition of the Tour du Silence in Sherbrooke, which drew a crowd of over 230 participants riding in honour of those injured or killed in traffic collisions

Cycling event returns to Sherbrooke with renewed urgency amid rising collisions

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

On Wednesday, May 21, cyclists in Sherbrooke will once again take to the streets for the Tour du Silence, a solemn annual ride that honours cyclists killed or injured in traffic accidents. The event, which has run locally since 2004, will depart at 6 p.m. from IGA Extra on King Street West and proceed in silence to a commemorative monument on St-François Boulevard.

Sherbrooke is one of 18 participating Quebec municipalities joining over 400 cities worldwide in the Ride of Silence, a movement born in Texas in 2003 after a cyclist was struck and killed during a training ride. “It’s a moment to remember those we’ve lost,” said Jean Pinard, a long-time member of the Sherbrooke Cycling Club and the event’s communications manager. “But it’s also about prevention—for drivers and cyclists.”

Pinard knows the stakes firsthand. Years ago, he was hit by a car while riding through Saint-Élie. “The driver’s mirror caught me just outside the white line,” he recalled. “I ended up with broken ribs, a punctured lung, and a fractured collarbone. It took me two months to recover, but I still cycle about 4,000 kilometres a year.”

The ride, which is free and open to all, will maintain a slow 15 km/h pace under police escort over a total distance of 8.4 km. Helmets are mandatory, and registration is required, either online via the Fédération québécoise de sport cycliste (FQSC) or on site starting at 5:15 p.m.

This year’s honorary president is Hôtel-Dieu councillor Laure Letarte-Lavoie, who also serves as president of the Société de transport de Sherbrooke. She will deliver brief remarks at the monument site shortly after the cyclists arrive around 6:40 p.m.

Recent statistics underscore the event’s continued relevance. In 2025 alone, Sherbrooke has already seen 35 accidents involving cyclists and motor vehicles—two resulting in serious injury and one in death, according to police. Pinard suggests that part of the rise may be linked to a surge in ridership: “During the pandemic, Vélo Québec recorded over 144,000 uses of La Promenade du Lac des Nations in one summer. Sales of bikes, especially electric ones, have since skyrocketed.”

Pinard emphasized that the Tour du Silence promotes not just memorializing victims, but also education. “It’s a double message,” he said. “We’re reminding motorists to keep their distance—1.5 metres on provincial roads over 50 km/h, one metre elsewhere—and encouraging cyclists to obey the rules too.”

To that end, all new members of the Sherbrooke Cycling Club must complete a two-hour safety theory course and four supervised rides. “Cyclists need to signal turns, ride in appropriate formations, and know when to avoid traffic,” he said, noting he personally avoids major streets like Portland at rush hour.

In collaboration with the Fédération québécoise de sport cycliste, advocates are pushing to modify regulations so groups of up to 10 cyclists can ride in double file. “Drivers don’t always know how to pass a line of 15 cyclists,” Pinard explained. “Sometimes we’re treated like farm tractors—we’re visible, but not given enough space.”

Despite challenges, he sees signs of progress. Sherbrooke has invested in safer infrastructure like the tunnel on Boulevard Industriel and the new central bike lane on Boulevard René-Lévesque. A network expansion is underway to better connect Sherbrooke’s various bike paths, and this summer will see the launch of a BIXI-style electric bike-share system, with 250 bikes and multiple charging stations between the Cégep, Université de Sherbrooke, and downtown.

“Things are improving,” Pinard said. “But awareness is still key. Every driver has a kid—or knows someone—on a bike. This ride reminds us all to share the road.”

For more information, visit the Sherbrooke Cycling Club website or consult the FQSC registration portal.

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Cyclists take advantage of freshly maintained paths near Granby, part of the Trans Canada Trail network receiving Trail Care funding this spring

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Community groups maintaining key sections of the Trans Canada Trail near Sherbrooke are among the 22 Quebec recipients of new Trail Care funding announced this spring. The funds, distributed by Trans Canada Trail (TCT), aim to support volunteer-led maintenance, cleanup, and improvement projects along the 29,000-km national trail network.

“We awarded $27,500 to groups in Quebec this year through the Trail Care Grant Program,” said Justin Fauteux, TCT’s Manager of Media and Public Relations, in an interview with The Record. “It’s a way to help them prepare for the cycling and hiking season and recognize the critical role of volunteers.”

While no projects were funded directly in Sherbrooke this year, several surrounding trails received grants. Just southwest of the city, La Montagnarde held a trail cleanup day—removing branches, clearing ditches, and addressing drainage issues after the winter thaw. North of Sherbrooke, along the popular La Cantonnière trail, funding is being used to replace worn planks on benches and repaint rest areas, helping prepare the route for its heavy summer cycling traffic.

“These are the kinds of small but essential projects that can make a big difference for users,” Fauteux said. “A lot of these trails are maintained by small, often volunteer-run groups that may not have the budget for this type of upkeep.”

Other funded projects in the region include:

• Parc linéaire des Bois-Francs near Victoriaville, where planks on a bridge near Halte Somerset are being resurfaced to improve accessibility.
• La Montérégiade, stretching from Granby to Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu, where volunteers cleared winter debris and overgrown branches.
• Sentier de la Vallée, north of Sherbrooke, where trail surfaces are being levelled and repaired.
• L’Estriade, running from Waterloo to Granby, where facilities are being readied for the cycling season.

According to Fauteux, the Trail Care grants are designed to be accessible and low-barrier, with most projects receiving $1,250. “It’s not meant for major overhauls,” he explained, “but it’s incredibly valuable for the kinds of routine maintenance and volunteer mobilization these groups rely on.”

Beyond Trail Care, TCT also invests more broadly in trail expansion. Between April 2024 and April 2025, the organization added 795 kilometres of trail across Canada, including nearly 400 km in Quebec alone. Currently, about 2,000 km of the Trans Canada Trail runs through Quebec.

“The trail was officially connected from coast to coast to coast in 2017,” Fauteux said. “But that was just the beginning. Since then, we’ve added more than 6,000 km. We’re still expanding—especially in Quebec.”

Locally, the Grand-Fourche Trail, which runs through Sherbrooke, is part of the TCT network. Although it didn’t receive funding this year, Fauteux said the area remains a vital part of the national trail system, and community groups in the region are encouraged to apply for future funding opportunities.

For more information or to view the full trail network, including nearby routes, residents can consult the interactive map on the Trans Canada Trail website.

Centraide Estrie hits $2 million milestone as it celebrates 50 years of community impact

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Centraide Estrie reached a historic milestone Wednesday night, announcing it will invest more than $2 million into the community for the first time in its history. The announcement was made during its annual recognition gala, Ici, avec cœur et reconnaissance, held at the Centre culturel Le Parvis in Sherbrooke.

The gala also marked Centraide Estrie’s 50th anniversary and brought together over 100 donors, volunteers, and community partners to celebrate the milestone and the results of its latest fundraising campaign.

“I’m extremely proud to announce that our 2024 campaign surpassed the 2023 total, reaching $2,616,079,” said Joey Dubreuil, president of the campaign cabinet, to enthusiastic applause. That amount will allow Centraide to invest $2,001,587 in 93 community organizations, programs, and collaborative projects across the Estrie region in 2025–2026.

“This isn’t just about numbers,” said board president Christèle Gran-Villeneuve in a prepared statement. “Behind every dollar invested is a real person—a young person receiving guidance, a supported family, a senior who feels less isolated. It’s our partner organizations that make all of this possible.”

Among the investments, $265,000 will support nine initiatives under the Projets collectifs program (formerly known as Bâtisseurs communautaires), aimed at addressing pressing issues such as mental health, food insecurity, and social isolation. The remaining funds will support the core missions of 73 local organizations and 11 additional targeted programs.

Dubreuil emphasized the significance of the achievement in the current economic climate. “This campaign was full of challenges,” he said. “With economic uncertainty and global instability, fundraising hasn’t been easy. But thanks to long-time partners and new supporters, we’ve once again surpassed our goal.”

He noted that around half of workplace campaigns saw growth this year, with the other half experiencing declines. Still, he said the overall increase was a clear sign of the community’s loyalty. “Centraide may be a large organization, but there’s nothing more local than Centraide Estrie.”

He also acknowledged a new partner, the Sibylla Hesse Foundation, which contributed a $10,000 donation this year, and highlighted two significant legacy gifts received in 2024. These donations enabled Centraide to fund three additional collective projects.

Dubreuil offered a breakdown of the campaign’s funding sources: 65 per cent came from workplace donations (primarily through payroll deductions), 25 per cent from foundations, and 10 per cent from individual donors. “That means 65 per cent comes from employees who give directly from their paycheques—it’s really the bread and butter of the campaign.”

A total of 155 companies, public institutions, and foundations participated in the 2024 campaign, with 40 of them contributing over $10,000 each.

The evening also included the presentation of nine recognition awards. A new distinction, the Centraide Impact Award, was introduced this year to highlight the outstanding contribution of someone working within a partner organization.

Award recipients included:

• Centraide Impact Award: Martine Chiasson (Centre l’Élan)
• Heart to Heart Award: Mélanie Adam (EXP)
• Community Builders Award: Table de quartier 4-Saisons
• Youth Leadership Award: Anne-Sophie Lemieux (Café William)
• Philanthropic Commitment Award: Michelin
• Nicole-Dorin Volunteer of the Year Award: Julie Laplante
• Solidarity Effort Award: RBC Royal Bank
• Centraide University Award: Nathalie Dubé
• Louis-Beaupré Organization of the Year Award: La Chaudronnée de l’Estrie

Details about each recipient’s achievements will be shared on Centraide Estrie’s website in the coming days.

Closing his remarks, Dubreuil encouraged those in attendance to help carry the message forward. “We all got involved because someone asked us. We were inspired by someone else. Now it’s your turn to ask someone in your life—to give time or money, however they can. Be contagious.”

He added, “Centraide’s mission is about giving back to the community in many different ways, through many different organizations. Let’s keep building momentum in this 50th anniversary year.”

Founded in 1975, Centraide Estrie continues to combat poverty and social exclusion throughout the region. For more information on its programs or how to get involved, visit www.centraideestrie.com.

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A recent report highlighting disturbing messages within a Quebec-based Discord server has prompted concerns over racism, sexism, and other discriminatory behavior among medical students. The allegations specifically implicate a student from the Université de Sherbrooke (UdeS), raising questions about the institution’s response to such behavior.

The Discord server, known as MEDServeur, was originally created to assist CEGEP and university students preparing for medical school admissions in Quebec. While the platform was intended as a resource, several of its channels have become breeding grounds for offensive and harmful discourse. A user identified as “Paul Goyim,” who claims to be a medical student at UdeS, is notably mentioned in the report for his inflammatory posts that include anti-Semitic, anti-Black, and misogynistic rhetoric.

According to Henry Topas, the regional director for B’nai Brith Canada, the human rights organization received an anonymous tip about the server from a concerned individual. The informant, the mother of a medical school applicant, provided screenshots from the server that showed numerous posts containing hate speech and threats aimed at various groups. The screenshots were analyzed by B’nai Brith’s team, who later corroborated the identity of some of the individuals involved, including the UdeS student.

“We are deeply concerned by the nature of the conversations on this server,” Topas explained. “There was a clear pattern of racist and discriminatory comments, and the most alarming part is that the majority of users failed to intervene or challenge this behavior.”

The messages, some of which have since been deleted from the server, ranged from casual racism and sexism to more explicit hate speech. One of the troubling posts included threats against Jewish individuals, coded references to Jews, and an encouragement for users to falsify their identities to gain advantages in medical school applications. Other posts attacked Black, Asian, and LGBTQ+ individuals, creating a hostile environment for those within the medical student applicant pool.

The allegations have raised significant concerns about the safety and professionalism of the medical student community in Quebec, especially in light of the involvement of individuals who are already in medical school. “When individuals like ‘Paul Goyim’, a student from UdeS, are posting such messages, it raises serious concerns about patient safety and the ethical standards upheld within medical institutions,” said Topas.

In response, the Université de Sherbrooke condemned any form of hateful discourse. A statement from the university, provided through spokesperson Isabelle Huard, emphasized the institution’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. “The University of Sherbrooke strongly condemns any form of hate speech,” the statement reads. “Our policies on equity, diversity, and inclusion clearly state that hateful, discriminatory, or violent speech is unacceptable within our community, under any circumstances.”

However, despite the serious nature of the allegations, the university did not provide further details on any actions taken in response to the incident, and declined to grant an interview regarding the matter.

As of now, the affected medical schools in Quebec are under pressure to examine their admissions processes more closely. B’nai Brith has called for a review of students’ behaviors as part of their admissions criteria to ensure that individuals who hold discriminatory views are not permitted to join the medical profession.

The situation remains under scrutiny as the public continues to demand accountability from educational institutions and as discussions about the need for stronger measures against hate speech in academic settings intensify.

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Isabelle Fortier (President, UPA–Granit), Claude Roy (Mayor of Marston, Chair of the PDZA), Serge Lapointe (President, UPA–Frontenac), Marie-Ange Richard (Project Lead), Monique Phérivong Lenoir (Prefect, MRC du Granit), Michel Brien (President, UPA–Estrie), and Alexe Côté (MRC du Granit) gathered to launch the inaugural Fièrement agricole event promoting local agriculture and forestry

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

With a focus on education, cohabitation, and pride in agricultural identity, the MRC du Granit and local UPA syndicates are launching the first-ever “Fièrement agricole” event on May 24 at the Lambton Arena. Organizers hope the full-day gathering will attract upwards of 3,000 people, offering residents a hands-on, family-friendly immersion into the region’s farming and forestry sectors.

According to project lead Marie-Ange Richard, a dairy, maple syrup, and beef producer from Lambton, the event is built “by farmers, for farmers”—but with the public in mind. “We wanted to create something inclusive, accessible, and educational,” she said in an interview following a media announcement. “Some productions—like pigs and chickens—can’t be included in farm open houses anymore due to biosecurity. So this is a new way to show people where their food comes from, even with modern restrictions.”

“Fièrement agricole” is a collaborative initiative from the MRC du Granit, UPA-Estrie, the local UPA unions of Granit and Frontenac, and the Municipality of Lambton. The main objectives, according to the organizers, are to better inform the public about contemporary farming practices, reduce tensions around rural-urban coexistence, and celebrate the region’s diverse producers—from pork and beef to maple syrup and forestry.

The event will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will feature exhibitions of actual farming equipment from local producers, an interactive rain simulator from MAPAQ, drone demonstrations from SIARC, food trucks, educational booths, and family-friendly entertainment including inflatable games and a woodcarving artist. “We’ll even have chocolate milk and coffee free on site,” Richard said. “Everything is designed to make this welcoming and approachable.”

The Lambton Arena will also house a market with over two dozen local producers offering fresh goods and samples, while education booths will showcase organizations such as Valacta, the Cégep de Saint-Georges, the ITAQ, and the Maison familiale rurale du Granit. A highlight of the day will be a 1 p.m. talk by horticulturist Marthe Laverdière, known for her lively gardening advice.

In the evening, a five-course meal featuring local ingredients will be served, followed by a presentation on agricultural economics from Jacques Deblois of Farm Credit Canada. A virtual auction of antique farming tools from local producers will also take place, with part of the proceeds supporting regional groups such as the Estrie Young Farmers’ Union, Estrie Women in Agriculture, and Au cœur des familles agricoles.

For MRC du Granit Prefect Monique Phérivong Lenoir, the event is an extension of long-term strategic planning. “We are the second-largest agricultural zone in Estrie by land area, but it’s not well known,” she said in an interview. “We have 600 maple syrup operations alone, with over 7.5 million taps. Agriculture is central to our identity.”

Phérivong Lenoir noted that this is the second such gathering supported by the MRC. A previous agricultural day held two years ago was highly successful and motivated local leaders to expand the format. She emphasized that the event serves not just as public outreach, but also as a resource for farmers, who will have access to expert information on issues like agricultural taxation. “It’s not just about showcasing our region—it’s also about empowering our producers,” she said.

The MRC is also engaged in several broader initiatives to support agriculture, including mapping abandoned farmland for potential reuse and developing biofood infrastructure. A second event, “Déguster Mégantic,” is planned for October, offering a self-guided gourmet circuit through the MRC’s food producers.

Richard said one of the main goals is to strengthen the public’s understanding of today’s farming realities and challenges. “We want to show that producers are warm, community-oriented, and proud,” she said. “It’s a chance to see what modern agriculture really looks like.”

Admission is free, and a shuttle service will run from Lambton village. For more information or to purchase tickets for the evening meal and conference, visit www.fierementagricole.com.

William Crooks
Compton–Stanstead MP Marianne Dandurand, Bishop’s University Coordinator of Experiential Learning in Art Bassam Chiblak, Saint-François MNA Geneviève Hébert, Mon Shack Executive Director Josée Parent, Université de Sherbrooke Professor François Losier-Gervais, Lennoxville Councillor Jennifer Garfat, and Borough President Claude Charron gathered on May 14 to mark the official launch of the Univers-Shack living lab in Lennoxville

Univers-Shack launches as living lab for youth mental health in Estrie

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In a major step toward reshaping mental health support for youth, Mon Shack… Mes choix… Mon avenir officially launched its Univers-Shack initiative on May 14 in partnership with Bishop’s University and the Université de Sherbrooke. The project, which organizers describe as the first of its kind in the world, is a “living lab” aimed at better understanding and improving the recovery process for young people living with mental illness in supervised housing.

The announcement was made at a press conference held on-site at Mon Shack’s 2.0 location, where founder and executive director Josée Parent spoke alongside numerous political and academic partners, including Saint-François MNA Geneviève Hébert, newly appointed Compton–Stansted MP Marianne Dandurand, and Lennoxville Borough President Claude Charron.

Parent said the Univers-Shack was born from a simple yet powerful question: “Why does it work at Mon Shack?” She cited the surprising outcomes observed among residents, including post-secondary success, stable employment, reduced hospitalizations, and increased community involvement. “There are significant costs associated with repeated psychiatric hospitalization,” she said. “So, we asked—what makes our model work, and how can we document and replicate it?”

According to the official press release issued by Mon Shack, the Univers-Shack will serve as a space for research, development, and innovation. Funded in part by a $25,000 grant from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), with additional support from the NexCap Foundation and Mon Shack’s own resources, the project will bring together researchers, students, community members, and tenants to co-create solutions to mental health challenges.

François Losier-Gervais, a professor in community psychology at the Université de Sherbrooke and one of the project’s lead researchers, explained that the Univers-Shack is “the world’s first living lab focused on youth mental health in supervised housing.” He emphasized that the collaborative model—incorporating input from those with lived experience, professionals, and students—will help identify and scale effective practices.

One of the project’s central educational partners is Bishop’s University, represented at the launch by Bassam Chiblak, Coordinator of Experiential Learning in Art. In an interview following the event, Chiblak expanded on the role students will play.

“Our goal is to apply theory in an authentic, real-world environment,” Chiblak explained. “Students won’t just be reading about mental health—they’ll be animating activities, working with residents, and participating in the research process itself.” He said the program is structured to accommodate different learning pathways, including credited internships and paid work placements, depending on the student’s program and university affiliation.

Chiblak said the learning goes both ways. “There’s a human element to this that’s missing in a classroom. Students not only see what mental health challenges look like—they feel it. That transforms the way they engage with their future professions.”

Mon Shack’s longer-term aim is to develop a replicable model that can be shared across Quebec. “We want to create a turnkey system that other communities can adopt,” Parent said. “We’ve already had interest from places as far as Ottawa. But it’s not about franchising Mon Shack—it’s about finding what works and making that knowledge accessible.”

Speakers throughout the morning echoed the importance of collaboration and innovation. Dandurand praised the project’s bilingual and inclusive spirit, calling it “a shining example of how the Eastern Townships community comes together around mental health.” Hébert lauded Parent’s perseverance and the project’s alignment with the region’s tradition of inter-institutional partnerships.

Borough President Claude Charron, who has supported Mon Shack since its inception, added that the public-facing nature of the Univers-Shack distinguishes it from more clinical models. “It’s not closed off. That openness changes everything.”

Parent concluded the event by highlighting the importance of listening to tenants and co-researchers. “The best solutions will come when everyone has a voice,” she said. “And I believe that by working together, we will build a stronger, healthier community.”

The Univers-Shack is now open and actively engaged in pilot research activities. Students, tenants, and researchers are already on-site as part of the inaugural cohort. For more information, the organization can be contacted at direction@monshack.ca.

William Crooks
Stanstead council members met on May 12 to discuss a range of local issues, including financial updates, infrastructure projects, and the ongoing effort to prevent the closure of the town’s SAQ outlet

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

Despite a full agenda, it was the final minutes of Stanstead’s May 12 public council meeting that generated the most discussion, as concerns were raised about the impending closure of the local SAQ and the fate of the former Del Monty Hotel building.

The meeting, presided over by Mayor Jody Stone, saw four residents in attendance and touched on a variety of municipal matters from financial updates to fire hall construction. But it was during question period that emotions rose over the announced departure of the SAQ store and the long-standing vacancy of a prominent local building.

Fight to keep the SAQ

When asked if there was any movement on the SAQ file, Mayor Stone confirmed that while the options are limited, efforts are ongoing. “We’re trying as much as we can,” he said. “There’s a possibility that I’ll head to Quebec City to present the petition with one of the deputies that are directly involved.”

He acknowledged the frustration many feel, describing the decision-making process around the closure as “complicated,” given the SAQ’s unique status as a state-run yet commercially operating entity. “They haven’t proved to me that it’s not profitable,” Stone added, saying the data shared with council was outdated and inaccurate, including claims that Stanstead’s population was in decline and that people shopped in Orford—where no SAQ exists.

Stone stressed that council has pushed back on the SAQ’s rationale. “They said people go buy elsewhere, but those Inspire card tracking systems don’t work at agency stores like the one in Ayer’s Cliff,” he said. “They keep suggesting we go private and put one in a grocery store, but a year is a long time. People change habits, and when they go to Magog, they’ll do everything there, and we lose.”

He called the contradiction glaring: “On one side, the government funds us to build up services, and on the other, they’re taking away those very services.”

The closure is scheduled for June. Stone said he has asked the SAQ to delay until the end of summer. “I’m convinced the owner would be open to a few more months, but I’m not sure it’s on the table,” he concluded.

Plans for the former Del Monty

Questions were also raised about the long-vacant Del Monty Hotel. Council members confirmed discussions are ongoing with a prospective developer, and a preliminary budget and timeline have been received.

Mayor Stone explained that the city is now working with an economic development specialist at the MRC to assess the financial viability of the proposed project. “We’re talking medium-term planning—18 months to two years,” he said. “In the short term, there won’t be any visible change.”

The mayor emphasized the importance of patience, stating, “If we tear it down, we lose the ability to do anything substantial with the site. For affordable housing, we need time and funding.”

He acknowledged public perception that “nothing is happening,” but reassured residents that planning and background work are actively underway.

Surplus and spending

Earlier in the meeting, council heard that Stanstead posted a surplus of $1,029,314 for the 2024 financial year—compared to a $34,000 deficit the year prior. The improvement was largely due to interest reimbursements from a temporary loan related to the Rock Island purification plant and savings in the snow removal budget due to a milder winter.

“There’s about $575,000 in returned interest alone,” a council member explained. “It wasn’t poor budgeting—it was a result of timing and accounting.”

Pay-to-pay accounts totalled $72,940.85 for April and $151,458.86 for May, and council voted to reduce the city’s long-term debt by formally cancelling a $2.5 million residual from an unused loan agreement tied to the Rock Island factory.

Progress on infrastructure

Council approved a temporary loan of over $2.1 million for construction of a new fire station on Notre-Dame Street Ouest and discussed the recent opening of a new ambulance station in town.

Other infrastructure updates included sidewalk cleaning and snow damage inspections, as well as the distribution of free trees and sunflower seeds on May 24–25 during the special collection weekend.

Council also approved contracts for sidewalk maintenance and septic tank cleaning and discussed waste management planning for the Barnston site, which will see a new cell developed to handle future solid waste needs.

Building and housing files

Multiple development files were addressed, including a $13,509.56 engineering mandate related to the redevelopment of the former grocery store opposite customs on Dufferin Street. A separate resolution allowed the city to proceed with registering a notice of deterioration for a long-neglected property at 575–581 Dufferin. The owner has now agreed to demolish the building by Nov. 15.

Also notable was the sale of a municipal lot in the Terrasses de Stanstead for $26,931 to a private company, pending resolution of slope issues that may affect construction viability.

Recreation and culture

Registration was slower than usual for summer recreation programs, prompting council to increase promotional efforts and make online pricing more transparent.

The town has completed its seasonal decoration switch and is progressing with upgrades at Génerations Park, including final touches to the newly designed bridge.

Council also discussed the relaunch of a provincial home adaptation program for people with reduced mobility and a potential collaboration to create QR code-linked video content on Stanstead’s heritage buildings.

The next inter-village meeting with Derby Line officials is scheduled for Thursday, May 15 at 3 p.m. Several council members confirmed their attendance.

Council adjourned at 8 p.m., with the next meeting scheduled for the second Monday of June.

Courtesy
The Lennoxville United Church in the 1920s

Local United Churches to mark centennial with pride and reflection

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

As the United Church of Canada turns 100 in 2025, congregations across the country—and in the Eastern Townships—are reflecting on a century of faith, service, and transformation. Locally, the St. Francis area churches will mark the anniversary with a regional celebration on Sunday, June 1 at 11 a.m. at St. Paul’s United Church in Magog, featuring a mass choir, the participation of eight area ministers, and a sermon by well-known broadcaster Royal Orr. The service will be followed by a potluck lunch open to all.

Rev. Ron Coughlin, a minister of Lennoxville United Church, discussed the history and significance of the anniversary in a recent interview. “We’re expecting about 150 people,” he said. “All 12 churches in our cluster are contributing—each bringing something for the table.” The event, organized by the St. Francis area United Churches, is one of several commemorations taking place across the country this year to mark the 100th anniversary of the United Church of Canada’s founding.

The national church was created in 1925 through the union of the Methodist Church, the Congregational Union, and a majority of congregations from the Presbyterian Church in Canada. Coughlin described the years of theological and political negotiation that led to the formation of what would become the country’s largest Protestant denomination.

“There was a lot of debate, especially in the Presbyterian Church,” he said. “Some thought it was the work of God, others called it the work of the devil.” While the Methodists and Congregationalists opted to enter the union as entire denominations if a majority approved, the Presbyterians left the decision up to each local church, mission, school, and hospital. “That’s why about a third of Presbyterian churches stayed out, and the Presbyterian Church in Canada still exists,” Coughlin explained.

A key figure in the political negotiations was Willis Keith Baldwin, then Member of Parliament for Stanstead. Archival material shared with The Record through Coughlin from Baldwin’s grandson, Keith Baldwin II—now 102 and living at the Wales Home—includes excerpts from a speech the elder Baldwin gave in the House of Commons on June 26, 1924. The address was part of the debate leading to the adoption of the bill that would legally enable the formation of the United Church.

In his speech, Baldwin defended the proposed church union not merely as a procedural change, but as a moral and spiritual imperative. “We are laying the foundations of one of the greatest countries on earth,” he said. “This church union movement is something that will promote the unity of our people.” He went on to describe the decision as one made in anguish, likening the emotional struggle of the church leaders to Christ’s torment in the Garden of Gethsemane. “God help the churches unless there is a real spirit of unity abroad,” Baldwin warned.

According to family accounts and a 1976 thesis written by Dean Moffat at Bishop’s University—also provided to The Record—Baldwin’s speech was instrumental in influencing several undecided French Canadian MPs. “The story we have been told is that W.K. Baldwin… lobbied his fellow members from Quebec to vote in favour of the bill. The bill passed and the United Church of Canada was born in the year 1925,” Baldwin II wrote in a letter included with the historical documents.

The union was formalized at a service held at Mutual Street Arena in Toronto in 1925. Coughlin noted that delegates to the inaugural General Council signed the “Basis of Union,” a foundational governance document for the new denomination. “There are 20 pages of signatures in this book,” he said, adding that he had shared images of the first page showing the leaders of the merging denominations.

Lennoxville United Church, where Coughlin currently serves, is celebrating its own milestone this year: its 150th anniversary. The congregation first gathered on July 3, 1875, in the home of William McCurdy, as the church building on Queen Street was still under construction. Minutes from that initial meeting, which Coughlin shared, show the original board was made up almost entirely of McCurdy family members.

The church has seen many changes over the years, including the installation of memorial stained glass windows in 1920 and their restoration after damage from a 1954 explosion at Beck Press. “They were repaired or replaced the following year at a cost of $7,099,” Coughlin said. “Those are the same windows people admire when they visit today.”

Asked about the direction of the church today, Coughlin acknowledged the challenges facing mainline Protestant denominations. “Over the last ten years, we’ve closed one congregation every week across the country—about 50 a year,” he said. “In the Townships alone, churches in Hatley, North Hatley, Stanstead, and Cookshire have either closed or merged with nearby congregations.”

Despite these closures, Coughlin noted that financial support remains strong. “There’s actually a little more money coming in every year from congregations,” he said, attributing the continued donations to the loyalty of older members.

The United Church of Canada has also been known for its progressive theological stance. In 1936, it became the first denomination in North America to ordain a woman. In 1988, it made headlines again by welcoming LGBTQ2S+ individuals into ordained ministry. “We’re a very liberal church,” Coughlin said. “And we’re proud of that.”

In the 1960s, the church launched the “New Curriculum,” a national education initiative intended to modernize the way Christianity was taught and to better integrate science and faith. “It began to take the Bible… not literally, but seriously,” Coughlin said, adding that the new materials were produced for Sunday schools and adult study groups. “We began teaching that God didn’t create the world in seven days,” he explained. “We interpret the Bible in terms of metaphors and poetics… not only myths, but truths that aren’t literal.”

Coughlin emphasized that the United Church has always encouraged flexibility and compromise in pursuit of unity. “We all have to compromise, to give up something for the union to work,” he said, echoing the sentiments expressed in the first sermon preached at the 1925 union service.

With both a proud past and uncertain future, the June 1 celebration in Magog is not just about looking back – it’s about reaffirming values of inclusion, cooperation, and social relevance.

Record Archives
Radhouane Masmoudi, president of the Islamic Cultural Centre of Sherbrooke (CCIS), Sherbrooke councillor Fernanda Luz, and Mohamed Soulami, director general of Actions Interculturelles, gathered to commemorate the Quebec mosque attack in Sherbrooke earlier this year

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

A wave of concern has emerged from Sherbrooke’s Muslim community following a recent city council decision that prevents religious activities from taking place at the city-owned Centre de foires. The vote, which ended 8–6 against allowing such events, has sparked disappointment and prompted renewed calls for dialogue and change.

Mohamed Soulami, a well-known advocate and director of Actions Interculturelles, expressed his dismay in an interview following the May 6 council meeting, where nearly a dozen community members spoke out. “It creates great damage for us,” he said, noting the ban affects a large population that has used the space for key community gatherings, particularly for the two major Muslim holidays celebrated annually.

Soulami clarified that Actions Interculturelles is a non-religious organization that works with many cultural groups—francophones, anglophones, Indigenous peoples, and newcomers from countries like Vietnam and former Yugoslavia. Its work promotes integration and community building. “We need to be in a place where we can live well together,” he said.

The issue revolves around access to public space. Soulami explained that past religious celebrations at the Centre de foires have drawn thousands, far more than local mosques can accommodate. “A room for 800 or 1,000 people is not enough—often it’s 3,000 or 4,000 people who gather,” he said, adding that holding the celebrations in a large, neutral venue avoids disturbing residential areas and supports social harmony.

Community voices at the council meeting echoed this point, calling the celebrations “a bit like Christmas for the children,” complete with games, refreshments, and cultural festivities. Many were disheartened to learn that such gatherings would no longer be permitted in a municipal facility.

While the city’s policy shift stems from the legal implications of Quebec’s Law on State Secularism and the full municipalization of the Centre de foires following the dissolution of Destination Sherbrooke, critics like Soulami argue that “nothing in the law” requires a ban. He views the current policy as potentially discriminatory and lacking a legal foundation.

“There needs to be a revision of this policy,” Soulami said. “As long as these activities don’t disturb others, they should be allowed—for the good of everyone.”

Mayor Évelyne Beaudin has acknowledged the complexity of the issue, indicating that no changes will occur before the fall. “We fall under the government of Quebec, and there is a reflection underway. We’ll wait for the working group’s results, so it won’t be immediate,” she said, though she expressed openness to revisiting municipal regulations.

For now, Soulami said the community is awaiting a response from the city, hoping for a resolution before the next scheduled celebration in early June. “It’s a party for children… tea, coffee, pastries—people meet. It’s very positive. It doesn’t disturb anyone,” he said.

“We are proud of Sherbrooke. It’s an inclusive and welcoming city. We just want it to stay that way.”

Courtesy of www.invasivespeciescentre.ca
Eurasian watermilfoil

Invasive aquatic species on the rise in Quebec

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

With boating season underway across Quebec, scientists and environmental groups are sounding the alarm about a growing threat to the province’s waterways: invasive aquatic plant species. Among the most concerning are Eurasian watermilfoil and water chestnut, which are spreading rapidly across southern Quebec and disrupting ecosystems in lakes and rivers.

Dr. Morgan Botrel, a postdoctoral researcher in aquatic plant ecology at McGill University, explained in an interview with The Record that these species not only outcompete native plants, but also harm water quality and biodiversity. “Eurasian watermilfoil spreads easily because it reproduces from fragments,” she said. “Once it gets into a lake, it forms massive beds that block sunlight and reduce oxygen, which impacts fish and other fauna.”

Botrel’s background includes a PhD on aquatic vegetation in Lac Saint-Pierre, where she found that native plant beds can actually filter pollutants and help regulate carbon cycles. “We need to talk more about the benefits of native aquatic plants,” she said. “They provide essential ecosystem services, and it’s important that people don’t confuse them with invasive species and start pulling them out.”

While Eurasian watermilfoil has long been a concern in the Eastern Townships and the Outaouais, water chestnut is an emerging problem in the Saint-François and Yamaska rivers. Native to Europe and Asia, the floating plant produces hard chestnut-like seeds and forms dense surface mats. “Once the chestnuts fall and take root, it’s very difficult to get rid of them,” said Botrel. “They block light and oxygen, and mechanical removal is labour-intensive.”

Botrel emphasized that early intervention is key. “Diving teams can be effective in small areas, but it’s time-consuming. The most strategic approach is prevention—identifying vulnerable lakes and using early detection tools like environmental DNA sampling.”

In 2024, the Regional Environmental Council of Estrie (CREE) confirmed the presence of the Georgian viviparid, a new invasive snail species, in Brompton Lake. During a packed press conference in Saint-Denis-de-Brompton, Dr. David O’Connor of the CREE explained that the species is hard to detect due to its planktonic larvae, and urged proper boat and equipment decontamination using hot, high-pressure water. “Even a small amount of water in a life jacket or some soil on water shoes can transport these species,” he warned.

CREE has since classified lakes in Estrie by their risk level: “Red” for those harbouring hard-to-detect invasive species, such as zebra mussels or viviparids, and “Yellow” for more manageable threats like watermilfoil. Brompton Lake, Memphrémagog, and the Magog River are among the red-level sites, requiring stringent cleaning protocols before and after use.

A second 2024 report, focused on Lake Memphremagog, highlighted the international dimensions of the problem. The Memphremagog Watershed Association (MWA) in Vermont and its Canadian counterpart, Memphremagog Conservation Inc., continue to coordinate efforts to stop the northward spread of zebra mussels and other invasive species across the Canada–U.S. border. “We’re seeing zebra mussels move from Magog toward Georgeville,” MWA’s Jennifer Hopkins noted, citing the lake’s northward flow and the role of wake boats in spreading larvae.

Efforts on both sides of the border include “Clean, Drain, Dry” campaigns, boat inspection stations, and public awareness initiatives. However, as Hopkins pointed out, “There’s no single body formally coordinating everything,” underlining the ongoing need for cross-border regulatory alignment.

Botrel agreed that more could be done. “We need better integration of local knowledge,” she said, explaining that much of Quebec’s plant data is scattered across different sources, including the Organismes de bassins versants (OBVs)—non-profit watershed management organizations that monitor water quality and coordinate environmental action in specific drainage basins. Her current work involves compiling this fragmented data to better understand how native plant communities might resist invasion. “We may find that degraded lakes are more vulnerable,” she said.

While new technologies like AI-guided amphibious drones and environmental DNA detection are promising, Botrel stressed the importance of consistent action from the public. “Washing boats properly isn’t just about stopping the spread,” she said. “It’s about protecting the future of our lakes.”

As Botrel and others continue their work in May 2025, one message rings clear: aquatic ecosystems in Quebec are under pressure, and everyone has a role to play in safeguarding them.

William Crooks
Members of Hatley Township council gathered at the May 6 meeting to discuss road repairs, zoning updates, and upcoming infrastructure projects

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

In Hatley Township, the state of the roads dominated discussion during the May 6 council meeting, with Mayor Vincent Fontaine openly acknowledging the staggering cost of bringing the municipality’s network of roads up to standard: $40 million.

Held at the town hall, the meeting was attended by six residents, several of whom raised concerns during the question period about deteriorating road conditions across the township. Their complaints ranged from potholes and collapsing surfaces to roads damaged by heavy vehicle traffic.

One resident described calling the municipality about a gaping hole on a road in the area. Within 15 minutes, workers were on site and promptly installed a barrier to secure the area. While residents expressed appreciation for the quick response, they also emphasized the overwhelming scale of the issue. Mayor Fontaine confirmed that Hatley is responsible for maintaining approximately 98 kilometres of roadway—no small task given spring thaw damage.

“In the spring, it’s terrible,” Fontaine said. “We’ve got 98 kilometres of road to maintain. We’ve done the main arteries, and now we’re moving on to the rest.”

The mayor revealed that a recent report presented by the MRC put the total cost of fully restoring Hatley’s roads at $40 million. “When we saw that report, everyone had a tear in their eye. We knew we’d never be able to do it all,” he admitted. “We have an annual budget of about $5 million. For the entire territory, $40 million is just impossible.”

However, some funding is being strategically allocated. The mayor explained that proceeds from the local quarry—amounting to over $500,000—will be spent on specific roads near the extraction site, including Chemin d’Albert-Mines, and Chemin Rogers. The upcoming $1.375 million project on Chemin du Lac will be financed in part by that fund, as well as with provincial grants and a long-term loan.

Still, residents voiced frustration. One questioned whether it might be more efficient to reduce road widths to save on maintenance. The mayor acknowledged that narrower roads could be considered during new construction projects, though he said decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.

“We try to adapt our methods,” he said, “but there’s no universal solution.”

Another resident suggested reintroducing a local surtax to help pay for road maintenance, recalling one previously levied for paving. Fontaine responded that while a surtax had funded asphalt projects in the past, it wasn’t currently being considered for maintenance work.

In the face of limited resources, temporary fixes remain a priority. Council approved a cold patch asphalt contract worth up to $311,244 to plug potholes ahead of larger repairs. “Until we can fully redo all the roads, we still have to maintain them,” said one councillor. “This is an interim solution.”

The issue of line painting also came up. Last year’s contractor was unable to complete the work, prompting a discussion about whether it might be sufficient to do line painting every two years instead of annually. Ultimately, council decided to proceed with a $20,825 contract for 2025 to ensure safety—particularly during snowstorms, when faded or missing lines can cause confusion for drivers.

Other decisions included hiring summer employees for public works and approving minor renovations to the upper-level bistro space in the town hall. These renovations, which will include replacing doors and flooring, aim to make the space safer and more welcoming for public events. The presence of a marmot sneaking into the hall was mentioned with a touch of humour during the discussion.

Also approved was a $15,000 allocation for granular materials to improve parking near the municipal swimming area on Chemin Kingdom. Employees of the town will complete the work. A resident also raised concerns about ambiguous pedestrian crossings near Parc de la Chaumière, suggesting one in particular be removed due to its odd placement. Council said they would review it.

Environmental concerns were addressed in a proposal to reforest a portion of municipally owned land. The township accepted a $4,750 offer from the Conseil régional de l’environnement de l’Estrie for site analysis and planning. The project aims to reduce erosion and sediment runoff into a nearby creek.

Council also passed zoning amendments for areas near Autoroute 410, designating one section for small commercial operations without storage or fuel stations, and adopted a conditional use regulation for the EX4 zone, located near two local quarries. These changes were described as steps toward better land-use planning aligned with recent public consultations and development plans.

Additionally, a $1.375 million borrowing bylaw was introduced to fund the Chemin du Lac resurfacing project. The mayor emphasized that while the funding includes a significant quarry contribution and anticipated subsidies, a portion will be financed through debt.

Finally, council approved the latest financial report, which will be available on the township’s website, and adopted a routine list of expenses and accounts payable totalling roughly $24,000.

Despite the difficult road ahead—figuratively and literally—Fontaine encouraged residents to continue reporting issues either by phone or through the municipal website. “That’s the best way to get it into our system,” he said, “and our teams prioritize interventions based on what’s reported.”

The meeting lasted about 30 minutes and was adjourned around 7:30 p.m.

William Crooks
Lac-Brome council members, including Mayor Richard Burcombe, seated during the May 5 public meeting where the fire station project and expropriation plans were discussed

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

During the May 5 council meeting, the Town of Brome Lake (Lac-Brome) council confirmed its decision to proceed with the expropriation of land owned by Canards du Lac Brome, a historic duck farm, to construct a new fire station. Approximately 25 residents attended the meeting, presided over by Mayor Richard Burcombe.

The council awarded a contract to Laboratoire Montérégie for $32,020.54 to conduct geotechnical studies on the proposed site. A council representative noted that the duck farm owners are cooperating with the study, stating, “Contrary to what has been mentioned this evening, relations between the town and the duck farm are excellent. The proof is that they’re allowing us to do geotechnical studies before even the expropriation procedures are done.”

Despite this cooperation, the decision has sparked controversy among residents. A local resident expressed her concerns, saying, “I would like to give kudos to the Duck Farm and the generosity that they have for this town,” before questioning why the town-owned land adjacent to the community centre couldn’t be utilized instead.

Mayor Burcombe responded by referencing the original intention of the land donation, emphasizing that it was meant for recreational purposes. “A fire station is not recreation,” he stated. “Consequently, he envisioned… the land is big enough to extend after if the community centre had to expand.”

Councillor Louise Morin acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, noting, “I felt bad… to expropriate from the duck farm, who’s been a solid part of our community for a hundred and some odd years.” However, she added, “They understand it, so it’s not a problem.”

During the meeting, it was also clarified that a portion of the land where the community centre sits still belongs to a local foundation, which could complicate any proposed expansion or re-use of adjacent parcels.

Other key developments

In the question periods, several issues were raised by residents:

• A resident inquired about compensation for first responders, noting that one of three responders attending a medical call was not paid. Mayor Burcombe acknowledged the importance of clarity in compensation and stated that the matter would be looked into.
• Concerns were raised about safety along the bike path, particularly regarding conflicts between pedestrians and cyclists wearing headphones. Councillor Lee Patterson mentioned that while signage exists in some areas, the request for better signage would be taken under advisement.
• The ongoing planning by Hydro-Québec for a new substation was discussed. Mayor Burcombe clarified that no final decision has been made about the location of the new 120 kV station, but confirmed that two corridors are now being studied, both avoiding the previously rejected North Corridor. “We’re going to continue to negotiate with Hydro,” he said.
• Marc Pelletier, an environmental advocate, suggested organizing a bilingual conference on recent changes in livestock management regulations. Councillor Morin responded positively but noted that the initially proposed $500 speaker fee was too high. “We’re trying to find an alternative,” she said, adding that the town is exploring options for delivering the event.

Infrastructure and spending

The council authorized several major expenditures and projects:

• A $155,067.68 agreement with a developer for sanitary sewer extension work along Chemin Mill.
• A contract to Englobe worth $41,367.78 for materials control and potential soil analysis on sidewalk repair projects on Victoria and Milton.
• A $56,395.24 contract to Construction DLS for resurfacing the Davis Road bridge, which remains under municipal responsibility despite being a provincial structure.
• $104,159.14 for improved play structures at Parc des Lions, based on durability rather than lowest cost.
• $55,153.51 to support heritage designations and an architectural guide as part of Lac-Brome’s urban plan revision.
• $15,000 for preliminary feasibility studies on an affordable housing project at 401 Chemin de Knowlton, a former seniors’ residence now vacant.

The council also rescinded two prior approvals for permits related to the Jardin-Lac-Brome project, citing unmet conditions.

Additionally, a new Three Pines-themed sign will be installed at Coldbrook Park, celebrating author Louise Penny’s fictional world, at a cost of $10,376.50.

The next major event on the calendar is Family Day, scheduled for May 31 at 11 a.m. at the community centre.

The meeting lasted roughly an hour and a half and ended near 8:30 p.m.

Canards du Lac Brome were contacted for comment on the land expropriation but did not respond before this article went to print.

William Crooks
Sherbrooke Mayor Évelyne Beaudin and Geneviève Hébert, MNA for Saint-François, answer reporters’ questions following the announcement of over $13 million in provincial funding for local water infrastructure projects

By William Crooks

Local Journalism Initiative

The Quebec government has granted $13.2 million to the City of Sherbrooke to support major upgrades to its aging water infrastructure. The announcement was made Monday, May 5 by Geneviève Hébert, MNA for Saint-François, on behalf of Municipal Affairs Minister Andrée Laforest. The funds are part of the 2023 Municipal Water Infrastructure Program (PRIMEAU), which provides support for large-scale waterworks renewal projects across Quebec.

Flanked by Sherbrooke Mayor Évelyne Beaudin and municipal officials, Hébert delivered the news at a press conference before taking questions from local media.

“This financial assistance will allow for the renewal of more than 3,200 metres of drinking water, stormwater, and wastewater conduits,” Hébert said. The work will take place on several streets, including Curé-LaRocque, Haig, Moore, Rioux, Lincoln, Fairmount, du Fédéral, Cambrai, des Ormes, and Dufferin.

Hébert noted that the Province will cover 75 per cent of the total project cost, which is estimated at just over $17 million. She praised the City’s long-term planning and commitment to improving underground infrastructure. “These are essential and crucial projects that are not always visible, but ones our government is proud to support.”

Mayor Beaudin emphasized that the projects are part of a broader, multi-year strategy to modernize Sherbrooke’s water systems. “Already, two requests under the PRIMEAU program have been submitted. The first was approved in July 2023 for $8.8 million. Today’s announcement represents the second, bringing the total so far to nearly $22 million,” she said.

Beaudin explained that Sherbrooke is entitled to over $41 million under the PRIMEAU envelope over a ten-year period. “These amounts allow us to take real steps toward reducing our maintenance deficit and upgrading our infrastructure to today’s standards.”

While welcoming the funding, Beaudin made it clear that the program does not cover all the city’s water-related needs. “If we want to respond to all of them, we’ll need to think outside of current programs,” she said. “Every program comes with conditions, and combining those conditions is a challenge at the local level. That’s why we continue to advocate for unconditional transfers to municipalities.”

Asked whether the funding would affect the moratorium on new developments imposed in February due to wastewater overflow concerns, Beaudin said the two issues were not directly related. “The issues were already known, and the amounts already committed. Today’s announcement doesn’t change that.”

She explained that the projects covered by PRIMEAU funding are part of a long-standing plan and focus on linear infrastructure—underground pipes and conduits—rather than overflow stations or the city’s wastewater treatment plant.

“We have over 150 kilometres of combined sewer lines where stormwater and domestic wastewater share the same conduit,” she said. “This puts pressure on the network, and separating those systems is part of our work, but these specific projects were already planned and are not tied directly to overflow infrastructure.”

Beaudin confirmed that a special committee has been formed to examine funding options for upgrading the wastewater treatment plant, which is expected to cost tens of millions. “We’re going to need innovative solutions and potentially new funding sources,” she said, adding that these upgrades could eventually have tax implications for residents. “Not for 2025—the budget has already been adopted—but this will certainly be a concern for the next municipal council.”

She added that the committee’s recommendations will be delivered to the next council, and expressed hope that the next mayor “will be passionate about water management.”

Beaudin also pointed to regulatory changes as a key reason for Sherbrooke’s moratorium on new developments in certain zones. “The government changed the standards,” she said. “Before, overflow limits were based on city-wide averages. Now they are measured outlet by outlet. One day we were within the norms, and the next day we were not.”

Asked whether the current funding will help resolve some of the 26 infrastructure zones affected by the moratorium, Beaudin responded, “Unfortunately, it doesn’t work that way.” She reiterated that the projects funded through this announcement focus on already-planned work unrelated to the specific overflow sites.

Work is already underway, according to Beaudin. “The construction season started about a month ago. You’re probably seeing crews around the city. But even for us as elected officials, it’s not always obvious which project falls under which program.”

The City is following a government-approved project plan that prioritizes each site based on need. “Sometimes the choice of which site to start with depends on the requirements of the particular program. For example, if the funding envelope is about to expire, that can affect which project gets done first.”

She acknowledged that some residents may question the locations chosen for construction. “People may see us working on a street and wonder why, or why not somewhere else. The truth is, our priorities are based on underground infrastructure needs—not what’s visible at the surface.”

Ultimately, Beaudin framed the investments as necessary groundwork for future growth. “If we don’t do this, we can’t develop. We’re stuck. But if we do it right, we’ll have a strong, modern system ready to serve Sherbrooke for decades to come.”

According to a related release, the PRIMEAU program is part of the Quebec Infrastructure Plan 2025–2035, which includes over $7 billion in municipal infrastructure investments. Sherbrooke’s current water upgrades represent one of the largest infrastructure projects under this program to date.