New Gym for SPDS Is a Source of Pride

Contract 400119680 ESTABLISHED • MAY 1975 VOLUME 45 / NO 49, DECEMBER 11, 2019 $1.50 (Tax included) New gym for SPDS is a source of pride

Gilles Gagné School students have had their physical educations classes in PORT DANIEL: – The De- the room that doubles as their cember 6 Open house at the lunch room or outside when Shigawake-Port Daniel the weather permitted. Current School (SPDS) was a great students are very eager to be success, as over a hundred able to train for upcoming community members took sporting events in their the opportunity to visit the school’s regulation-size gym. school’s new gymnasium. On several occasions SPDS Following the planning students travelled to NCHS to and call for tenders, the practice for sports such as bas- building of the gymnasium ketball since they didn’t have was announced at the end of the appropriate facilities at June 2017. It was con- their school. structed between August The outdoor sports pro- 2018 and August 2019 at the gram, including snowshoing cost of $2.6 million. The fa- and skiing, which is popular cility was ready for the be- among the students at SPDS Photo: G. Gagné ginning of the current school will continue. year. As a result of having the Mark Gallibois, Principal Lori-Ann Hayes and John Prince greeted everyone who came for the Shigawake-Port Daniel School open house. They were not alone Funding for the SPDS new gym, SPDS also has an though, as other staff members, students, parents and volunteers made sure that gymnasium came from a on-staff physical education every visitor had a guided tour of the new facilties. program called One school, teacher. Mark Gallibois who one gym launched by the started his teaching career 19 an elevator are a great source curricular activities. The be a community gym. There Quebec government in 2016. years ago at SPDS, has that of pride. school board is also working is still a bit of work ahead As soon as the school ad- position. Visitors were invited to a on that aspect. We want adults but it will come,” explains ministration heard about the “We can do a lot of things lunch that was served in the to use it as well. We want it to Lori-Ann Hayes. existence of the program, in the gym, dodge ball, broom cafeteria. It is hard to believe they applied for the project. ball, volleyball, basketball, that the cafeteria doubled as “We figured that we had badminton and floor hockey. the gym for decades. A power- Many SPDS students were proud to show their parents and nothing to lose,” says Ms. It is also big enough to do point presentation of the con- family members the new gym. Hayes. With an enrolment of laps,” points out Mark Galli- struction project was also on 70 to 75 students, the school bois. display. was eligible for the program, The pre-kindergarten to For now, the gym is used but being such a small school grade 1 students go to the gym by SPDS students, but school their hopes of being ap- three times a week, while principal Lori-Ann Hayes proved for the project grades 2 to 6 go twice a week. points out that efforts are cur- weren’t high. “But it worked. During the open house stu- rently underway to extend its We had nothing and they dents and volunteers greeted schedule. gave us something,” says visitors and showed them “We are still working on a Ms. Hayes. around. It is obvious that the school policy for the use of For more than 60 years gym and the other new facili- the gym. We want the students Shigawake Port Daniel ties, including restrooms and to use it after school, for extra-

A special pre-open house was held for SPDS Alumni. Former SPDS students who now attend New Carlisle High School were proud to be invited back to their elementary school to play badminton and visit the facility.

Photo: G. Gagné

Photo: Sadie Gallibois Hayes NEZ ROUGE: Donates nearly $160,000 News Nelson Sergerie GASPÉ - The Lions Club of Gaspé recently announced that thanks to Operation Nez Rouge close to $160,000 has been donated to local organizations over the past 30 years. briefs Last year with 686 rides. $8,600 was raised. Year in, year out, between $3,500 and $7,300 is donated to various organization including the youth centres in Rivière-au-Renard and Gaspé, Été jeunesse Gaspé and the Gaspé Elementary School. Fewer nurses in the Gaspé “It’s very important because it allows young people to have activities that they would not have had otherwise. There have been several organizations that have benefitted from Operation Nez Rouge. For Peninsula and Magdalen Islands several years now it mainly focused on four organizations only because otherwise we would be too dis- tributed,” said the treasurer of Operation Nez Rouge George Chrétien. Nelson Sergerie The only one on the Coast GASPÉ - The number of nurses continues to decline in the Gaspé This is the only Operation Rez Rouge on the Coast this year. The provincial organization of Oper- Peninsula and Magdalen Islands ation Nez Rouge would like to have other operations, but finds it difficult to find partners. According to data from the Quebec Order of Nurses as of “It still takes time. These are campaigns that begin to be organized in June. We have a team in place March 31, the region experienced a decline of seven profession- at the national secretariat to help these organizations launch their campaign,” says spokeswoman Danielle als in the past year. This is the second year in a row that the num- Vien. “If there are any organizations that are keen to launch for next year, we would be very happy to ber of caregivers has decreased after a peak of 955 in 2017. hear from them.” The region currently has 922 nurses, an average decline of The 31st edition of Operation Nez Rouge in Gaspé will be held on Fridays and Saturdays. The 2.2% over the past five years. launch will take place on November 29 and will finish on December 28. Nevertheless, the Gaspé Peninsula and Magdalen Islands have 10.27 nurses per 1000 inhabitants, which places the region 4th in The mission of the Société d’aide au développement des the province. Their average age is 43.1 years. 21% are over 55, but collecvités de Gaspé is to accompany promoters in 30% are under 34 years old. 63% have a full-time position. development eﬀorts within La CôtedeGaspé by providing technical and ﬁnancial support to enterprises and organizaons.

JOB OFFER: BUSINESS COUNSELLOR Since 1846 Job descripon: Meet entrepreneurs and support them as they meet challenges, seize development opportunies and seek financing by providing them with technical assistance and referrals. The two parties signed their first collective agreement in front • Establish contacts with entrepreneurs; of journalists. Photo: N. Sergerie • Follow up on files involving SADC financial commitments; • Smulate innovaon in businesses; A first collective agreement • Support the introducon of strategic efforts; • Support local development iniaves together with other partners within the community; at the Musée de la Gaspésie • Coordinate the Mentorship program; • Manage programs providing nonrefundable contribuons; and Nelson Sergerie • Promote SADC programs GASPÉ -Forage After going through Moreau an extremely Inc. difficult year, the bridges have been restored between the employees and the new Your personality: Ideal profile: management of the418-392-9501 Musée de la Gaspésie. • Construcve atude • University degree in Administraon The two entities signed their first collective labour agreement Each problem has a soluon. (Finance, Accounng, Management, SME on November 12, giving the 12 employees more vacation time • Communicaon management profile) or college diploma and pension benefits. We are seeking someone able to in Administrave Technology or Business Labour relations had deteriorated over a year as employees establish relaons of trust easily. Management. A combinaon of pernent wanted to review the work policy under the old management. • Thoroughness educaon and experience can be taken The situation had deteriorated to the point where the group The details and quality are essenal. into consideraon. of workers had chosen to join the CSN last January. • Resultfocussed • Pernent experience in local The work environment has changed since the departure of We take an interest in the success of development, economic facilitaon and Nathalie Spooner and the arrival of Daniel Martin last February. entrepreneurs. coaching connected to projects that are Mr. Martin acted as interim director until the arrival of the current structuring for communies. • Autonomy director, Martin Roussy. We can count on you. • Good communicator and catalyst. "It's really day and night. There was no communication be- • Be able to travel within the territory. tween management and employees. The museum's activities had Disncve benefits: • Good knowledge of informaon been jeopardized. It was a very dark climate, very difficult. As soon • Permanent job: 35 hours/week technology and French as the interim director came in, respect was paid to the employ- • Pay scale: $43,500 to $57,500 ees,” said union president Gabrielle Leduc. • Three weeks’ vacaon aer the first year According to the president, some 20 employees left the mu- • Employee benefits: RRSP, group Email your applicaon by seum in recent years due to the toxic work climate. insurance, educaonal opportunies December 19, 2019 to: • Place of work: downtown Gaspé [email protected]

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Page 2, December 11, 2019 - Spec The price of snow removal has increased Police report Nelson Sergerie GASPÉ - It will cost more for snow removal on provincial roads this winter. The Ministry of Trans- port has awarded all the contracts for this winter and has found that the difficult winters of the past few Superior Court Judge André Perreault refused a request by the Bu- years have had an impact on the price submitted by private companies. reau des enquêtes indépendantes (BEI) for a publication ban on the evi- “The value of bids has increased, but we cannot say how much for the region because the value of dence related to the trial of former politicians Nathalie Normandeau the contracts is variable due to many factors,” says department spokeswoman Claire Pouliot. At the and Marc-Yvan Côté. end of the last winter the Ministry of Transport paid lump sums to compensate for the exceptional The BEI is an organization created several years ago by the Que- weather.. bec government to investigate certain cases, including incidents in- The reconstruction of Route 198 at the West exit of Murdochville is now complete. In September volving police officers. In this case, the BEI is mandated with the when the tail end of Hurricane Dorian hit, the ground became very wet and trucks got stuck. As a re- inquiry into the leaks pertaining to certain investigations being car- sult the Department of Transport built a bypass until the work was completed. The schedule has been ried out by UPAC, the permanent anti-corruption squad. respected. The leaks are so significant that they have been used by Que- As a result of a pileup involving approximately 25 vehicles during a violent gust of wind and blow- becor to publish a book on Jean Charest’s Liberal Party funding ing snow in the cemetery area on January 22 last year, the Ministry has decided to install a surveillance methods and articles covering at length the circumstances of camera. When there is blowing snow, Route 198 will be closed between Gaspé and L'Anse-Pleureuse. Nathalie Normandeau’s arrest in March 2016. Additional leaks were The camera should be operational this month and road users will be able to view the state of the road linked to Marc-Yvan Côté, a former minister under Premier Robert via the ministry’s 511 site by January. Illuminated signs will also be installed at both ends of the road to Bourassa. inform motorists of its closure, if any. Evidence will be submitted to the court by the Director of Crim- inal and Penal Prosecutions during the trial of Nathalie Norman- deau, who is charged with fraud, breach of trust and corruption regarding the allotment of grants from Municipal Affairs. On December 2, Judge Perreault ruled that some evidence might not be made accessible to the public and journalists, however, the BEI will have to submit publication ban requests on a per-element basis, instead of as a whole. The judge will decide per request if the divulging information could be detrimental to an ongoing investigation. However, Judge Perreault granted a request from the Director of Criminal and Penal Prosecutions to impose a publication ban on all evidence gathered during the Joug (Yoke) and Lierre (Ivy) investigations between now and the beginning of Ms. Normandeau and Mr. Côté’s trials. Those investigations led to the arrest of the two former politicians and four other co-accused, including the former mayor of Gaspé, François Roussy. Judge Perreault decided that once the trial started, journalists will be permitted to divulge the evidence stemming from the Joug and Lierre inquiries, as it will be presented to the court but not in a block. ---- The Sûreté du Québec is conducting an investigation about vandalism perpetrated on heavy equipment belonging to Eurovia Inc. At the time of the vandalism (Thanksgiving weekend), the asphalt equipment was located along Road 198 between Murdochville and Gaspé. “Damage is significant. We are talking about thousands and thousands of dollars of damage, although the company did not spec- ify the extent of it,” says Sgt. Claude Doiron, Sûreté du Québec’s spokesperson. “The company is offering money to find clues that could lead to finding suspects but we are not part of that step,” spec- ifies Mr. Doiron. “There are no witnesses. We initiated an investigation but with no witnesses, it was hard to find clues. Now the company is offering money to find clues. That stretch of road can be quiet at times,” concludes Sgt. Doiron. ---- Recreational Fisheries Act convictions: Lee Anne Crozier and Al- fred Element of New Carlisle were each fined $300 for possession of clams less than 51mm in length. Rejean Bujold of Maria was fined $300 and forfeiture of seized goods for shellfish harvesting in a closed area. Dany Leblanc of Escuminac was fined $600 and forfeiture of seized goods for shellfish harvesting in a closed area and the possession of soft-shell clams less than 51mm in length. ----- Since November 28, Quebec police forces have been conducting an operation called “Vous sortez? Nous aussi!” (You’re going out? So are we!). They are checking the capacity of drivers in regard to drugs and alcohol. Police have intensified their actions by setting up check points. The campaign will continue until January 2.

Despite the measures adopted over the years, including information campaigns, greater police presence and services such as Nez Rouge, drinking and driving has still caused on average 100 deaths per year, on Quebec roads between 2013 and 2017. That is 28% of fatal road accidents. Alcohol was also responsible for 220 serious injuries yearly on the roads over the same period, and 1,800 non-fatal injuries.

During the same period, 34% of drivers involved in fatal accidents had legal or illicit drugs in their blood and 20% of those drivers had cannabis in their blood. Moreover, 37% of drivers aged between 16 and 24 had cannabis in their blood. The proportion increases to 46% for the 16 to 19 years of age bracket and stands at 16% for the driv- 158, boulevard Gaspé, Gaspé, Quebec ers aged 25 and more. Tel.: (418) 368-6226 / Fax.: (418) 368-1221 ROY NISSAN E-mail: [email protected] Page 3, December 11, 2019 - Spec to the personal data of 4.2 million customers. He potent Transport Department should be able to partially made up for that through imposing sanc- give the service back between Caplan and Gaspé Commentary tions to credit agencies that are not protecting the within the next three years, not six. Gilles Gagné information collected from their customers. Health files seem to move in the right direction Economy minister Pierre Fitzgibbon has so far with Minister Danielle McCann. She is able to lis- fared better than the rest of that government’s eco- ten and has stayed away from the autocrat meth- nomic team. He is all over the place, including in ods of former Liberal minister Gaétan Barrette. the Gaspé Peninsula. He seems willing to learn The Health Department eats up close to 50% of Quebec’s political more about the regions and has so far showed a the government budget and employs in excess of capacity to listen, which is not very common at the 200,000 people. If you show contempt towards parties’ last session CAQ. those employees the way Mr. Barrette did be- The environmental file, conducted by Minister tween 2014 and 2018, you can’t progress. You was a major test Benoit Charrette, has been one of the very low need to build bridges with your staff in health and Despite receiving well-deserved flak following points of the CAQ government. François Legault elsewhere. Ms. McCann looks able to understand Simon Jolin-Barrette’s lame bill initially destined to has proven, like former Liberal Party Philippe that principle. limit foreign students’ access to some education Couillard before him, that if you don’t want to put As mentioned earlier, the biggest ally of the programs and its overall management of the entire the environment at the forefront of your priorities, CAQ government is the old parties’ failure over the immigration file, the Coalition avenir Québec gov- you just have to appoint a weak minister at the past few years to renew their political platform and ernment seems to still be in the honeymoon phase helm of it. Mr. Couillard had done the same with recruit potential leaders. with the province’s population. David Heurtel. The rebuilding job of the Liberal Party will be Fourteen months after winning the 2018 elec- In the CAQ case, Premier Legault seems to lag enormous. You cannot win an election in Quebec tion, Premier François Legault’s party has a pop- 40 or 50 years behind the world in environmental without sizeable support in the francophone com- ular support hovering between 70% and 75% with policies and competence. He said at one point munity, which accounts for 80% of the electorate. the francophone electorate, a rarity after more over the end of the summer that the so-called You are also looking for trouble if you cut the links than a year in power. “third link” between Quebec City and Lévis is a with Quebec City and the rural regions such as the However, the anglophone electorate and most green project because it will provide an additional Gaspé Peninsula. Philippe Couillard neglected ethnic groups are still mistrustful towards the CAQ road for electric cars. Benoit Charette repeated those aspects to such an extent that the Liberals government and it is totally justified. François that reasoning on many occasions over the follow- are now absent from the electoral map west of Legault is trying to play the nationalist card in order ing months. That it weak, considering that the Montreal. In some regions, it might take a gener- to weaken the Parti Québécois and, so far, it has multi-billion project will only encourage more peo- ation before people forgive them for austerity worked. ple into using their car and contribution to spread- measures implemented in 2014 and lifted in 2017, The CAQ has also played the economic card ing suburbs farther and farther from urbanized a year before the election. to affect the Liberal Party of Quebec and that too zones. The Parti Québécois case is different. Former has worked. The transportation file is also giving headaches leader Jean-François Lisée acted like an arrogant Truth be told, the CAQ government is, above to the CAQ government, because of the taxi-Uber schoolteacher during his 2016-2018 tenure and all taking advantage of those two old parties’ skirmish that seems to have finally been solved by displayed exactly the opposite of what voters weaknesses. It is that more than anything else. minister François Bonnardel. He has however had needed to wave goodbye to the Liberals. The elec- A quick glance at the way the CAQ government his hands full with the problems at the Société des torate was looking for some understanding, hu- performed in many fields is far from impressive. traversiers du Québec, a public corporation that is manity and a different tone. Interim leader Pascal The economy is still going well but it mainly de- coming out of at least 15 years of ill-management Bérubé is a solid debater though but he is not in- rives from a context prevailing in most of the and twisted political nominations. The clean-up op- terested in keeping that position over the long world’s 20 most industrialized countries than be- eration is far from over, considering the ferry prob- term. The party has received a rare good news a cause of the current government’s orientations. Fi- lems still experienced between Matane and the few days ago when former Transport Minister Syl- nance minister Éric Girard unfortunately took a bit North Shore. Mr. Bonnardel has not shone either vain Gaudreau announced that he would enter the lightly the Mouvement Desjardins leak pertaining in the Gaspé Peninsula railway, considering that a leadership race. The Québec solidaire situation is different. To send a Letter to the editor They now represent the only true left-wing option amongst the four main political parties, and that THEGASPESPEC.COM provided them with a possibility to get very close to the Parti Québécois during the last poll. Coleader Manon Massé is well-liked by social JOURNALISTS: Nelson Sergerie groups and her presence is a must at the National Diane Skinner Assembly because she will never forget people CONTRIBUTORS: Cynthia Dow, suffering from poverty and exclusion. It can’t be 208-B Gérard D. Levesque Jeanie LeLacheur said about the other parties now, with the occa- New Carlisle, Que. Publisher: News Editor: Office Manager sional exception of Pascal Bérubé. G0C 1Z0 Penny MacWhirter Gilles Gagné Joan Imhoff Tel: 418-752-5400 So despite several lapses and a lack of thor- [email protected] SPEC welcomes letters to the editor on subjects relevant to topics covered by the paper. Letters must oughness, Premier François Legault seems in a be kept within 300 words or less and may be edited for clarity or to remove any slanderous, sexist, BOARD OF DIRECTORS: thegaspéspec.com racist or homophobic statements. We reserve the right to reject any letters. Opinions or letters pub- President: Roger Wise good position to stay popular over the second year lished do not necessarily reflect the editorial policies or beliefs of this newspaper. All letters must bear Vice-President: Elaine Sexton SPEC OFFICE HOURS: the handwritten signature of the writer and include the address and number(s) for verification purposes. Treasurer: Ray Venables of his term. However, he would make a huge mis- Mon. to Fri: 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Address & phone number will not be printed.). The Publisher shall not be liable for slight changes Secretary: Maria Chatterton or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of an advertisement. The Publisher's liability take by thinking that he is running a Teflon govern- Directors: Hayden Sams, (Taxes included) for other errors or omissions in connection with any advertisement is strictly limited to publica- ment and that he and some cabinet members can 1-year (paper or digital): $46 tion of the advertisement in any subsequent issue or the refund of any monies paid for the adver- Bonita Annett, Bethany Paetkau, 6-months (paper or digital): $25 tisement. Patricia Ste-Croix Annett show the flashes of arrogance they have displayed Outside Canada: Published every Wednesday by: 1-year paper $165 digital: $46 We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada. over recent months. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau We acknowledge special funding from the Ministère de la Culture et des Communications. Les Publications de la Côte Inc. (Sea-Coast Publications Inc.) thought the same thing over the second half of his federal government term and it almost costed him Member of: Gaspé’s Home Page: QCNA , CARD his position. www.gogaspé.com Avoid the crowds shop online thegaspespec.com

Page 4, December 11, 2019 - Spec Air Canada must improve its services in the Gaspé Peninsula and Magdalen Islands, says MNA Joël Arseneau

Gilles Gagné the plane on Friday night (Localizer performance with were re-scheduled for Tues- vertical guidance) approach CARLETON – Joël Arse- day night for the Gaspé and system, which allows air- neau, Member of the National the Magdalen Islands! Per- crafts to land when the clouds Assembly for the riding of sonally, they offered me a are 250 feet above the the Magdalen Islands, was a flight for the Islands on Mon- ground, instead of 600 feet passenger among the 50 peo- day night, but I had to be with their current and out- ple who initially tried to get back to Quebec City on Mon- dated devices. to the Gaspé and the Mag- day night! I don’t want to “Air Canada is also expe- dalen Islands on the evening complain about my case. riencing staff shortages since of November 29 and the fol- Some people cannot afford to early last summer and it does- lowing morning. go to the airport in a cab that n’t solve the problems. The “The level of dysfunction costs $35 each time. Some planes were late all summer related to Air Canada Jazz people were travelling for because of that but they are aircrafts is multifold and goes health purposes, and others not talking about it,” de- Pascan Aviation aircrafts reach their destination 95% of the in all directions, and it in- time without cancellations, while 25% of Air Canada Jazz were expecting to see a dying plores the elected official. cludes organizational prob- flights bound for the Gaspé Peninsula and the Magdalen Is- next of kin,” says Mr. Arse- He has talked to Quebec lems,” says Mr. Arseneau. neau. Transport Minister François lands are cancelled for various reasons. Photo: G. Gagné “The initial problem on He used his phone to book Bonnardel about those issues. Friday (the first evening) was Member of the National As- and the Magdalen Islands. a flight on Saturday night Mr. Bonnardel is supposed to the defrosting system and we sembly. “There is something knowing it would be an or- meet with his federal col- can accept that it happens. The Saturday morning wrong about asking people to deal because of Air Canada’s league Marc Garneau. Air The lack of replacement air- flight was also cancelled due board planes the following poor reservation system and Canada is a transporter under craft that night, however, is to the meteorological condi- day or two, three and even customer service over the federal jurisdiction. unforgivable, given that it tions since a windstorm was four days later. Some people phone, he adds. The public relations serv- happens often,” criticizes the affecting the Gaspé Peninsula who were supposed to take The age of Air Canada’s ice of Air Canada replied on planes assigned to the Gaspé the second day following the Peninsula and Magdalen Is- SPEC request to get more in- MNA for Gaspé lands service is part of the formation about the quality of problem, and their equipment services in the Gaspé Penin- affected by the canceled flight is another side of the issue, he sula and the Magdalen Is- says. The Dash 8-300 were lands. The reply mentions Nelson Sergerie make sense to me. We need to put pressure on them by telling put in service in 1983 and that there was a mechanical find ways to serve the regions them to “improve the service, 1984. problem on November 29 and GASPÉ: - Méganne Perry- better in terms of regional air my friends," but so far it isn’t “I was mayor in 2005 and that it was not possible to find Mélançon recounts her misad- transport.” working. The forceful method Air Canada was talking about a second aircraft for “opera- venture, once she learned that Could competition would be to have someone play replacing them. Every fourth tional reasons,” without fur- the airplane couldn’t take off. be the solution at their feet and in their wallet. Air Canada flight towards the ther detail. “We arrived at the Air Gaspé Mayor Daniel Côté It's called a competitor who Magdalen Islands is can- Air Canada admits that Canada counter to see what the believes that having some will drive down prices and put celled or sent elsewhere. Pas- there are problems with the other options were and when competition will solve the pressure to improve the quality can, with the same weather, new reservation system, we could head home. There many problems for air trav- of service," states Mr. Côté. only cancels 5% of its flights. which required 700,000 hours was a very big lack of commu- ellers to Gaspé. On December The elected official does Pascan’s planes are smaller of design and installation. nication with the agents in the 2 he commented on his adven- not understand that the national but better equipped. How do The problems will be solved place who seemed unaware of tures involving Air Canada. carrier does not have a Plan B you explain that Air Canada soon, but no time frame has what was happening and they Mr. Côté, who has been when a plane is damaged. flights are cancelled 25% of been provided. did not have access to their hammering out the message of Mr. Côté pointed out that the time?” remarks Joël Arse- Pascan Aviation does not computer system. It is the competition for three years, the town commissioned a neau. serve the Gaspé airport but whole question of customer does not believe that Air study on the issue to determine The Dash 8-300 are not serves the Bonaventure and service that we are criticizing,” Canada's desire to change the viability of having a com- equipped with the device the Magdalen Islands air- says Ms. Perry- Mélançon. things will be enough. “We can petitor in Gaspé. compatible with the LPV ports. Approximately 50 passengers were affected by the flight that was supposed to leave Get Involved in YOUR community Quebec City on November 29- 30. The passengers had to wait Become a several days in order to have LINGUISTIC MENTOR TODAY! access to a seat. “We cannot make Gaspe- WHAT? Mentoring is a one-hour session, once a week for 12 weeks. sians and the Magdalen Is- YOU will be helping a community health worker improve their Eng- landers wait four or five extra lish! days in Quebec without giving them any news about when WHEN? they could head home,” says Anticipated start date - January 2020 Ms. Perry-Mélançon. WHERE? It has been a recurring situ- The Baie-des-Chaleurs area ation for a number of years, WHY? and the Member of the Na- VILLAGE Improving a health worker’s English improves services for us all - tional Assembly for Gaspé Real Estate Agency notes that we are still in the share your knowledge and learn more about another culture while Suzanne Landry having fun! same situation. CERTIFIED REAL ESTATE BROKER AEO According to her “It's not 418-752-0792 Contact Jennifer at CASA for more information today! new. With the current techno- [email protected] 418-752-5995/418-391-4187 or [email protected] logical level, a company as www.suzannelandry.ca large as Air Canada should be Friendly bilingual service able to better communicate from Matapedia to Port Daniel with its passengers. It does not 19 years experience Page 5, December 11, 2019 - Spec Reflections

Diane Skinner Flowers

Grandma’s Apron The strings were tied, it was freshly washed, and maybe even pressed. For Grandma, it was everyday to choose one when she dressed. The simple apron that it was, you would never think about; The things she used it for that made it look worn out. Linda Drody presents artwork She may have used it to hold some wildflowers that she’d found. currently on display at La Muse Or to hide a crying child’s face when a stranger came around. Imagine all the little tears that were wiped with just that cloth. LA MUSE: Or it became a potholder to serve some chicken broth. Linda Drody’s artwork on display Think way back. Did your grandmother wear an apron Gilles Gagné When she started brush pieces. every day? My memory of my dear grandmother is vivid and painting, Ms. Drody found a The Musée de la I can recall her early morning routines which always included GASPÉ – La Muse, the art way to express her emotions, Gaspésie exhibition about the donning of her full apron. She wore that apron until gallery of the Musée de la including darker moments. winter and Christmas per- bedtime, because frankly her work was never done until she Gaspésie is presenting until With time, her way of per- fectly aligned to that new rested her head on her pillow. January 5, the artwork of ceiving life changed, and she perception. The museum is Our grandmothers’ aprons were the real deal - not the Gaspé artist Linda Drody. is now convinced that we located at 80, Boulevard half aprons, but the full aprons with a bib and pockets. The The exhibition is entitled must concentrate our attention Gaspé, in Gaspé. Details aprons tied in the back and at that point they were “ready Noël à Gaspé/Christmas in on happy moments. She is about the schedule can be for business.” Grandmothers wore those aprons with pride. Gaspé. Born and raised in now expressing joy and her obtained at 418-368-1534 or They never looked dirty or wrinkly because they were freshly Gaspé, where she lives, sense of humour in her art online. washed and ironed. Linda Drody developed her Many children today never see an apron, but for our art skills when she was still Linda Drody’s painting grandmothers, it was a necessity. They owned just a few a child. Her family initiated Christmas at the Corner of the Beach. dresses so they had to protect them, however, an apron her to music, brush painting served many more functions than protecting grandma’s and drawing. Nowadays, her visual art is inspired by her dresses. Just about for any chore you can think of involving childhood memories and the the kitchen, and even children, those aprons came in handy. beautiful scenery of the An apron was used for carrying eggs from the henhouse, Côte-de-Gaspé territory and as a potholder to move pots around on the wood stove, the surrounding areas. The bringing in kindling and carrying empty pea pods or green breathtaking Gaspé Penin- bean bits to the pail in the kitchen to be fed to the pigs later. sula scenery is transposed in Freshly picked apples were transported in the apron. Occa- her art, from the sand sionally she might wipe her brow after baking bread or even beaches to the rich rivers, in- dry her hands while on the move to the next chore. I have a cluding the region’s colour- memory of my grandmother wiping something from my changing forests. cheek with the bottom hem of her apron. Photo: Musée de la Gaspésie The pockets were important too and served a function. The pockets were often stuffed with Kleenex and maybe a few old-fashioned peppermints. It is a beautiful memory to think of our grandmothers and how prepared they were to do all that needed to be done. They worked from morning until night, but always with uncomplaining love. The aprons Business opportunities at they wore were symbols of who they were: nurturing, caring Forillon National Park! and hard-working. Become a tourism products and services providerr..

She probably carried kindling to stoke the kitchen fire. Parks Canada is seeking providers (businesses, organizations or individuals) to offffer their To hold a load of laundry, or to wipe the clothesline wire. services as early as summer 2020. These include: When canning all her vegetables, it was used to wipe her brow. • Food services at the Petit-Gaspé Recreation Centre, the Penouille Visitor Centre and the new You never know, she might have used it to shoo flies from the cow. Information and Discovery Centre in the North Area of the park She might have carried eggs in from the chicken coop outside. • Whale-watching services from Grande-Grave • Scuba diving and snorkelling services from Grande-Grave Whatever chore she used it for, she did them all with pride. • Sea kayaking services from Grande-Grave When Grandma went to heaven, God said she now could rest. • Quadricycle and outdoor equipment rental services in the Penouille sector I'm sure the apron that she chose, was her Sunday best. • Marine experience services from the North Area of the park (poem by Tina Trivett) • All new proposals that aim to enhance the activities and experiences provided to visitors

YYoou have until January 29th, 2020 at 2 p.m. to submit your project.

Interested? Contact Marie-Eve Briand, Chief, Finance and Administration: 418-368-5368 / [email protected]

ASSET-BASED 3PL Powered by Integrity. Driven to be Different.

[email protected] shipENERGY.com | 1-866-530-9555 Page 6, December 11, 2019 - Spec Business & Professional Directory

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 AN APPROACH THAT PAYS! Take some time to think a re- Capricorn, you may need to sponse through before saying delegate when demands at the first thing that comes to home start to feel a little over- ASSOCIATES mind, Aries. It’s not easy to whelming. Any free time you ALPHONSE BERNARD, FCPA, FCA take the words back once can muster will be put to good CLAUDE BERNARD, CPA, CA they’re out there. VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 use. HÉLÈNE LAGACÉ, BAA TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Time is running out to get an AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 alphonsebernard.ca Taurus, even though it can be important job done, Virgo. Some situations are beyond CARLETONSURMER 4183647471 difficult to cede control, some- This is not a week to procras- your control, Aquarius. Fixat- CPA Businesstimes you have to hand the tinate,& but Professionalto bear down and ing on the things you cannot Directory reins over to someone else. finish your tasks. You’ll change will not prove produc- You can still be involved from breathe easier afterward. tive. Surround yourself with a distance. LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 friends. GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 Big changes are on the hori- PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Gemini, sometimes it can be zon, Libra. You may have Enjoy the moments that you challenging to figure out what wanted a certain outcome, but have with family members in other people are thinking. another arrived instead. It the weeks to come, Pisces. Focus on yourself instead of could take some time getting These are the most reliable trying to get into the heads of used to a new situation. people in your life. those around you. SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Sometimes you have to table FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS A focus on finances takes pri- the things you want to say in DECEMBER 8 Business & Professional Directory ority this week, Cancer. Holi- the interest of consensus, Ann Coulter, Journalist (58) day spending may force you to Scorpio. Focus your energy DECEMBER 9 Judi Dench, Actress (85) reevaluate your budget. It on positive things this week. DECEMBER 10 could be time to scale back. SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec Bobby Flay, Chef (55) LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 21 DECEMBER 11 Put all of your energy into one Sagittarius, be patient with Mos Def, Rapper (46) DECEMBER 12 line of thought or project, Leo. yourself this week, as you Jennifer Connelly, Actress (49) This way you’re fully behind have many different balls in DECEMBER 13 the idea. You’re a force to be the air at once. Even the most Steve Buscemi, Actor (61) reckoned with when you are organized person may stum- DECEMBER 14 Tel.: 418-368-0288 motivated. ble here or there. Samantha Peszek, Athlete (28) 28 St-Patrick, Douglastown, Quebec Email: [email protected] DOUGLASTOWN.NET on n g a G ra a S : to o h P

The trains of the SCFG circulate daily EVERY YEAR, MORE THAN 100 CANADIANS between Matapedia and New Richmond. ARE SERIOUSLY INJURED OR KILLED They can circulate at any time of the day and IN ACCIDENTS ASSOCIATED WITH PASSAGES at night, during the week as well as the weekend. AT LEVEL OR INTRUSIONS.PRACTICALLY ALL THESE ACCIDENTS ARE AVOIDABLE.

THE SCFG REMINDS YOU OF THE FOLLOWING INSTRUCTIONS CONCERNING THE RAILWAY:

NEVER NEVER NEVER ATTEMPT ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS stop, walk, run, hunt, fish or to jump on board ANTICIPATE THE use the obey signals look and listen bike or drive your jump on railway railway equipment ARRIVAL OF A designated at crossings. before crossing ATV on railway bridges. They or trains. Slipping TRAIN. crossings for Lights and bells railway tracks tracks or are not designed can cause you to Trains do not follow crossing the indicate that a train to make sure through the to be sidewalks or lose a limb or fixed schedules. railway tracks. is approaching; that it is safe. railway pedestrian bridges. even your life. so keep a safe tunnels. There is just distance and enough free space stay safe. on railway tracks to let a train to pass.

REMEMBER - WHEN IT CONCERNS THE RAILWAY - DO NOT ENTER! STAY AWAY! STAY ALIVE!

Page 7, December 11, 2019 - Spec Mayor of Chandler once again before the Municipal Commission

Nelson Sergerie No comments A controversial garage Louisette Langlois refused Chandler could lose a grant CHANDLER - Louisette Lan- to comment on the reproaches from Quebec if the Town coun- glois allegedly committed 21 put forward by the commission, cil does not rule quickly on the breaches of Chandler's Code of however, the elected official construction of the new munic- Ethics and Deontology. said that she intends to defend ipal garage. In a municipal ethics quote herself and consult a lawyer. In June, the council had published on December 4, the In October, the Mayor de- adopted a divisional relocation Municipal Commission (Com- clared that no one had used the to the industrial park - a $5.2 mission municipale du Town's mechanism related to million project paid 70% by Québec) states that the infor- psychological harassment. Quebec, however, the success- mation in their possession is Councilor Bruno-Pierre ful contractor withdrew due to likely to show that Ms. Lan- Godbout also declined to com- delays in decision-making. glois committed "several ment. The council must decide by breaches of the rules set out in Ms. Langlois has already December 16 on two plans: the the Code of Ethics (of the been suspended twice by the initial project too far from the

Town)." Photo: N. Sergerie Municipal Commission. Town centre according to The breaches mentioned in- Louisette Langlois at the December 2 council meeting The first time was in May elected officials or a more mod- clude the disclosure of confi- 2016 when she was suspended est garage downtown in a wet- dential information to citizens icizes the way she dealt with where the resolutions were dis- for 30 days for having asked land, an expensive option in November 2018, March conflicts of interest regarding cussed. the Town treasurer to add according to the mayor, 2019 and September 2019 the adoption of resolutions In addition, in October, re- $135,000 to the 2014 budget Louisette Langlois. when the mayor disclosed the concerning the signing of a garding the resolution request- without having respected the "The land was too small for names or title of employees mediation agreement following the lifting of the Town’s administrative proce- the garage. In addition, it was in who made psychological ha- ing a complaint of psycholog- professional secrecy of the dures. a wetland that needed a lot of rassment complaints to the ical harassment. She is Town's lawyers in the context In September of the same excavation for a cost of almost CNESST. Moreover, in March criticized for failing to dis- of an investigation by the Mu- year, a 45-day suspension was $500,000. The options are hard and May 2019, she would have close a personal interest in the nicipal Commission, the gov- ordered by the Commission for to meet." sent an email or a Messenger resolution, for participating in ernment institution reproached participating in discussions and Councilor Bruno-Pierre message to a citizen in which the debate and for voting on him again for not having dis- failing to disclose her personal Godbout is waiting for the there were professional legal the resolutions. closed his personal interest, to interests in the matter leading council to make its decision. fees accounts, all contrary to The organization also ac- have participated in the discus- to the dismissal of the Town's "We worked very hard on this Article 6 of the Code. cuses her of refusing to sign the sions and to have voted on the director of urban planning, issue and it is a priority," said The Commission also crit- minutes of this council meeting resolution. Philippe Shepherd. the elected official. The Uncle We Never Met Brent Roberts the 5th Canadian Armoured changing of mortar and sniper Division got orders that they fire, The Dragoons were able Samuel Roberts and Flora would be shipped out. Their to cross the Melo River. This May Minchinton’s eldest son, convoy would move out from pattern of fighting up the boot Milton Benjamin Roberts, the mouth of the Clyde River of Italy and its numerous was born June 28, 1922, in on October 27, 1943, and ar- rivers would continue with the Grande Greve, their 5th child rive in Augusta, Sicily, on the German soldiers digging in on in a family of 5 boys and 5 7th of November. They were one side, while the Canadians girls. During the month of spared the first prolonged bat- slowly pushed them back. Fi- May 1933, tragedy struck the tle of the Italian campaign, the nally on October 20, the regi- family with the death of Battle of Ortona. Christmas ment was relieved and moved Samuel Roberts. Milton 1943 would consist of track to Cesenatico for a much de- stopped his schooling to work and field events for the Royal served rest. and help support his mother Dragoons, with a turkey din- December 1st, Milton’s and 9 siblings. Kenneth, Mil- ner and Mass being held at squadron was recalled to lib- ton‘s younger brother, would midnight. On January 2, 1944 erate Ravenna and they were remember him walking along they arrived in Altamura, able to reach the Lamone the Gaspé roads with his joy- Italy. River by December 5. Two Moved to the Adriatic days later they were relieved ful disposition, whistling his Milton Roberts favourite tune, It’s a Long Way Front, they would see action by another squadron. While to Tipperary. Milton sported a moved to Camp Borden, north of November and arrived in during May in the Liri Valley in reserve for three days, Mil- five foot five frame, brown of Toronto, Ontario, during England 8 days later. They Battle. First up was the as- ton would write his mother a hair and brown eyes, and had May of 1941. The next 5 were unable to dock in Liver- sault on the Gustav Line fol- letter and put it in the a scar on his right index finger months consisted of training pool that day so they had to lowed by a breakthrough of squadron’s outgoing mail on from a past injury. He wasn’t until October when the Dra- cruise up and down the Irish the Hitler Line on May 23. December 10 to be post- content with remaining a log- goons received orders to pre- Sea for one more day. During Given a rest break in June, marked on the 14. With the ger all is life, so on March 25, pare for embarkation by 1942, Milton would continue they were brought back to ac- Canadians securing a crossing 1941, Milton walked into the November 8, with all em- his training and get a chance tive duty in July to march to- of the Lamone River on De- recruitment office in Gaspé barkation leaves to be com- to improve his education wards Florence for a major cember 11, Milton’s squadron and volunteered for service in pleted by then. when he was posted to the offense on the Gothic Line. was called out of reserve. De- the Canadian Army. Milton travelled to Mon- Canadian Education Com- Come mid August and a cember 14, 1944, recorded in He was posted to the Royal treal for his leave and married pany for 2 months. change of plans, the 5th Cana- the war diaries of the Royal Canadian Dragoons. The Dra- his Gaspé sweetheart, Evelyn Back home in Gaspé, his dian Armoured Division was Canadian Dragoons, it re- goons was originally estab- Ida Ellen Rabey, on October mother Flora was facing moved to the Adriatic coast to ported intermittent shelling lished as a Cavalry Unit in 28, 1941. A week later his blackout restrictions with carry out their assault on that with two other rank casualties, 1883 and saw action during regiment received their orders German U-boats patrolling off section of Gustav Line com- one being killed, Trooper Mil- the Northwest Rebellion, to ship out to England as part the coast. Now one of her mencing on August 28. After ton Benjamin Roberts. Boer War and WWI. In Sep- of the 5th Canadian Armoured sons, Milton was serving in breaching the line, they Flora May would receive tember 1939, the Dragoons Division. Europe and another son, reached the Melo River by Milton’s last letter on January were changed to an armoured The troop ship formed up Arthur, was enduring the hor- September 5, which the Ger- 10, 1945. Milton was laid to regiment. Stationed in St. with a convoy and pulled out rors of a Japanese POW camp. man Military held fast on the rest in the Gradara British John’s, Quebec, they later of Halifax harbour on the 13th Finally, in October 1943, two-week rest period with ex- Empire Cemetery in Italy. Page 8, December 11, 2019 - Spec School Support Staff want to be recognized Nelson Sergerie GASPÉ - More resources and an increase in the number of support staff in the schools are de- manded by the Federa- tion of School Support Staff-CSQ. Initiating a provincial tour of the Gaspé Peninsula, Éric Pronovost underlines that recent investments in education have not

filled the $1.2 billion cut Photo: N. Sergerie Éric Pronovost imposed by the various governments in recent years. Jack Harrison ready for take-off. The investments enabled the René-Lévesque School Board to convert several part-time positions to full-time, which allowed for a marked improvement in the quality of life of these workers. Over the Hill...with Jack Harrison Mr. Pronovost, who represents the support staff of the East- ern Shore School Board, hopes that other school entities elsewhere CASCAPEDIA-ST-JULES: - truly and Ron Willett. Did I house in the parking lot. As it in Quebec will follow this example. Not for the meek and mild, say "brave" enough? Maybe was, many people had to head "We do not want to give permanence. Yes, we did it to René- 50+ go-cart racing had an- there is another word... for the woods. Lévesque, but why do we do it to René-Lévesque and we cannot do other exiting day on Jimmy At least two of the race re- Thanks must be given to it elsewhere? This is the step that will take us to give ideal condi- Brown’s Hill during this sults are under investigation. Melissa Harrison for getting tions," says the unionist. year’s Cascapedia-St. Jules Next year we need Larry things organized and to all the On Bill 40, the merger of services will have a negative impact Fall Festival. Duthie with his camera to call volunteers who helped out. on staff, according to Mr. Pronovost. Once again, Donald Caplin the shots at the finish line. An- See you all, plus many more, The union invites the Minister of Education to a real consulta- won the big one. Second place other thing we need is an out- in 2020! tion. went to Charlie Caplin and third to Romeo Cormier. PUBLIC NOTICE Charlie, who built the first and second place carts, can now be declared the undisputed mas- URBANISM ter of cart-builders. Enactment of By-Laws: It was good to see the Day By-Law 1156-11-42 « amendant le règlement de zonage 1156- brothers from Fauvel back on Grain inspector trainee 11 en: the hill. Baie-Comeau, Quebec Jimmy Geraghty’s cart was • modifiant les usages autorisés dans la zone RT-284 afin de there ready to go, but health permettre comme usage spécifiquement permis dans cette Salary: $46,233 to $65,279 zone, l’usage Vente au détail de poissons et de fruits de mer problems kept him from rac- (5422); ing; we’ll see you next year, The Canadian Grain Commission seeks • modifiant les usages autorisés dans la zone RT-284 afin de Jimmy. candidates for Grain Inspector Trainee permettre comme usage spécifiquement permis dans cette Barry O’Neil and Kevin positions at its Baie-Comeau service centre. zone, l’usage d’Atelier de conditionnement du gibier et afin Willett did a real good job Successful candidates will take part in a d’assujettir cet usage au Règlement sur les usages condi- turning the carts around on the tionnels n° 1172-12; 4-year development program to qualify as • modifiant la marge de recul avant minimale dans la zone M- church hill, even with drivers grain inspectors. 248 et remplaçant la note 2 de la grille des spécifications de still in their seats. By the time la zone M-248. » the final race came around, Job duties include: they were exhausted. By-Law 1172-12-11 « amendant le règlement sur les usages One quick-thinking driver conditionnels 1172-12 en : avoided mishap after losing • Taking part in on-the-job training and a her brakes. Rather than going working practicum • ajoutant l’article 2.14 DISPOSITIONS APPLICABLES POUR L’USAGE* D’UN ATELIER DE CONDITIONNEMENT DU out onto McKay Road into • Working in an industrial environment GIBIER DANS LA ZONE*RT-284. » traffic, she turned right, went • Sampling, inspecting and grading grain under the fence chain at the By-Law 1170-12-03 « amendant le règlement relatif à la gestion graveyard, took a trip around • Maintaining records and compiling reports des règlements d’urbanisme 1170-12 en : the tombstone, and stopped with no damage! Apply by December 31, 2019. A complete • remplaçant le premier paragraphe de la caractéristique Ivan and Lorna DeVouge description of the Grain Inspector Trainee numéro 5, de la cinquième exemption du troisième point de position and how to apply is available on l’article 5.3 « CONDITIONS D’ÉMISSION DU PERMIS DE are talking about a lighter cart; CONSTRUCTION.» maybe they are planning to go www.jobs.gc.ca. into participation instead of LEGAL SERVICES AND CITY CLERK’S OFFICE competition. Two over-80- 1-800-853-6705 or (514) 607-1373 or Enactment of By-Law: (514) 360-7772 ext. 242 year-olds were still brave By-law 1402-19 «amendant le règlement 1190-12 règlement TTY: 1-866-317-4289 enough to race down the hill concernant la circulation et le stationnement en modifiant l’an- in tin contraptions reaching www.grainscanada.gc.ca nexe B. » speeds of over 40 kmh - yours GIVEN at Gaspé, December 11, 2019.

Isabelle Vézina, Directror of Legal Services and town clerk

In accordance with the by-law concerning the publication of public notices, the city of Gaspé informs you that you will find all of these notices on the website of the city of Gaspé at the following address: ville.gaspe.qc.ca in the section of public notices.

Page 9, December 11, 2019 - Spec Announcements...

WHITE: Leo In Memory In loving memory of a dear husband, father, fa- Happy 90th Birthday ther-in-law and grandfather who passed away six years ago on December 21, 2013. on December 14 GRAY: Edward J. Sometimes I just sit quietly, Passed away in Bracebridge, Ontario, at the BBO Reflecting for awhile, Hospital on November 27, 2018. Ed will be missed Imagining your voice, your face, by his wife Eleanor and sons Bob, Rick, Stephen and Your warm and lovely smile. his family is Matapedia, Quebec. Rest in peace, my For it’s so lovely to recall, love. The happy times we had When you played such a special role As both husband and Dad. And at this very special time, We only wish you knew That we’d give you all the world today, For one more hour with you, But we still have our memories, And since we’ve been apart, It comforts us so much to know That you’re right here in our hearts. Love and missed always, wife Lorna; daughters Donna, Sandra, Valerie and families. Leslie George Coull Wishing you many more years of good health and happiness. The New Carlisle Cora, the Garrett kids and their families. Funeral Association extends sympathy to the family of Ricky Buttle ROBERTS: Milton Benjamin Classic 75 years ago on December 14, Milton Benjamin Roberts was killed in action along the Lamone River Memorials in Italy. Four Generations At the age of 19, Trooper Roberts from Grande PHOTO of Monument Craftsmen Greve enlisted in the Canadian Army to fight in QUALITY WWII. He was assigned to the Royal Canadian Dra- Since 1846 HIGHEST QUALITY - BEST PRICES goons. One week before his deployment, he married When submitting a photo for his Gaspé sweetheart, Evelyn. this page, please send in a MONUMENTS, MARKERS, CEMETERY LETTERING, He was predeceased by his father Samuel in 1933. digital photo (.jpg) to LASER DESIGNS AND PORTRAITS Milton was remembered lovingly for many years by [email protected]. his Mother Flora (nee Minchinton) and all of his nine SALES REPS: siblings, whom have all since passed on. You can also send your Albert Burton - New Richmond 418-391-6526 Though we never had the honour of meeting our photo by mail or drop it off Steven Imhoff - New Carlisle 418-752-6041 Uncle Milton, he lives on for us through the remem- at the office. brances of our parents. Never forgotten, Brent Alexis Normandeau - St. Jules 418-759-3270 Roberts MONUMENTS P. FOURNIER Forage Moreau Inc.Since 1846 Grenier & Grenier Since 1846 GUARANTEED418-392-9501 QUALITY LAWYERS Tremblay & Barriault, notaires inc Tel: 418-892-5312 Notaries & legal counsel Cell: 418-355-4799 Réal Grenier, b.a.ll.l. [email protected] A Division of MGI Jules Grenier, b.a.ll.l. Gilles Tremblay, notary 641 Forillon Blvd, Gaspé, Que. Serge Barriault, notary WE ALSO REPLACE Gaël Tremblay, notary FOUNDATIONS, AND 96 Gérard D. Levesque Blvd, P.O. Box 519 New Carlisle (Quebec) G0C 1Z0 PROVIDE CLEANING 119B Perron Blvd West, New Richmond, Que. FULLY Tel.: (418) 752-3308 • Fax (418) 752-6935 Tel.: (418) 392-5282 • Fax: (418) 392-6155 BILINGUAL AND REPAINTING. E-mail: [email protected] SERVICE

Forage Moreau Inc. By Appointment 418-392-9501 418-392-9501 Going beyond and reliable since 1982 Mathieu Mercier - Driller/Owner Richard Ste Croix Denturologist - Artesian Well Drilling Construction and repair of dentures. 3 Rue Cerisiers - Budgetary Price We also make dentures on implants. Electricity - Plumbing Gaspé, Québec G4X 2M1 - Bilingual Service Automation Tel. (418) 368-5425 Industrial computing - RBQ: 5672-1467-01 9 Adams Street, Gaspé Fax (418) 368-7290 Tel.: (418) 368-1525 Counter sales Quebec G4X 1E5 Fax: (418) 368-1542 www.groupeohmega. com [email protected]

Dr. Pascal Cyr BILINGUAL Optometrist SERVICE

Page 10, December 11, 2019 - Spec

BILINGUAL SERVICE

MEMBER MEMBEROF OF COAST ROUND-UP: $5 per week COAST ROUND-UP CLASSIFIED: $6 per week

BARACHOIS: NEWS: Santa will be at the New room is now closed until Janu- Brake, Johanne Leblanc and CLASSIFIEDS Legion Branch 261 Carlisle Legion from 1 p.m. to 3 ary 8. For more information, André Bujold. Every Monday: The Royal p.m. call Kathleen at 418-392-4896. The winners for the week of Canadian Legion, Branch 261, December 15 are: Joey Cyr, will be having a money bingo at NEW CARLISLE: CASCAPEDIA-ST-JULES: Nicole Babin, Patrick Boudreau, 7 p.m. at the Legion. 18+ only. Bible Chapel Services Fifty Plus Clarence Harguail, Reinald Every Thursday: Cards and Sunday: Breaking of Bread for Every Tuesday: Grocery Leblanc, Lisette Henry and games from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Believers - 9:30 a.m.; Night Bingo at 7 p.m. Huguette Arsenault. Free. For more information, service - 7 p.m.; Wednesday: Every Thursday: Dame de The winners for the week of contact Lloyd Roussel at 418- Bible Study and Prayer - 7 p.m. Piques at 1 p.m. Everyone is December 22 are: Lise 645-3700 or 418-645-2786. “You Must Be Born Again.” welcome to attend. Thank you Poirier, Jeremy Ballum, Ghis- for your support. laine Leblanc, Carol Fugère, PORT DANIEL: NEW RICHMOND: December 13: There will be a Perry Coul, Patrick Cyr and Cé- Three Star St. Andrew’s jam session open to all musi- cile Saucier. Golden Age Club United Church cians and spectators at the The winners for the week of Every Wednesday: Pétanque December 20: Bring your club. Doors open at 7 p.m and December 29 - 31 are: Ken LAND FOR SALE: Completely from 7 to 9 p.m. Cost $3. Come family and friends at 7 p.m. to entertainment begins at 7:30 Duguay, Denise Cyr-Gagnon ad serviced lot in New Carlisle, and join the fun and learn a enjoy the singing of all your p.m. Free admission and can- Jacques Rivière. Quebec, located on Church new game! favourite traditional Christmas teen service on site. The rotary club thanks every- Street, south of the 132. Lot Carols. (Alternate storm date, one and wishes them a very number 6 041 558. Asking SHIGAWAKE: December 21). Please contact GESGAPEGIAG: Happy Holiday. $28,000, for more information Community Centre Gail Martin Harrison at 256mar- N.A. Meetings please contact Richard at 905- December 31: New Year’s Ball [email protected] or call 418- N.A. Meetings held every Tues- PURCHASE YOUR 299-3695. beginning at 8 p.m. $12 per 392-2725 if you would like to day at 7 p.m. at the Mawiomi ANNOUNCEMENT person. Light lunch served, register a performance for the Treatment Centre located at 85 ONLINE AT 18+, DJ (Mark Dea). evening. School Street in Gesgapegiag. THEGASPESPEC.COM COAST ROUND-UP Everyone welcome! For more HOPE TOWN: NEW RICHMOND: information, call 418-759-3522. UNITED CHURCH Hope Baptist Help Us DOUGLASTOWN: Church Celebrate Joan GESGAPEGIAG: Sunday, December 15 Community Centre Hope Baptist Church welcomes December 23: Joan Bisson Important Meeting 2 p.m. Hope Town Tuesdays: Zumba from 7-8 you. Sunday School for all ages Dow will be celebrating her This is to inform the community p.m. $10/class. Resumes Janu- at 9:45 a.m. and Corporate 90th Birthday in January. The members of Gesgapegiag and ary 7, 2020. Worship at 11 a.m. on Sundays. family is taking advantage of the surrounding area that Ges- December 13: This month’s Prayer Meeting and Bible Study their Christmas gathering to gapegiag Healing Lodge ANGLICAN traditional square dance will be at 7 p.m. on Wednesdays. celebrate with her. We’d love to (NNADAP) hosts AA meetings CHURCH held at the Parish Hall in St- Young Peoples for grades 7-11 see you at the tea in her hon- and is open to everyone. If you OF CANADA George-de-Malbaie beginning at 7 p.m. on Fridays. 305 Route our from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the are interested in a lifestyle free at 7:30 p.m. Voluntary contri- 132 West, Hope Town, 418- United Church Hall in New Rich- of alcohol and substance abuse Sunday, December 15 bution of $5 would be appreci- 752-5838. mond. Best wishes only, and have the desire to change, 2 p.m. Lessons & Carols ated. please! Hope you can join us! you are invited to attend meet- Hope Town December 20: The traditional HOPE TOWN: ings every Monday at 7 p.m. 10 a.m. Morning Prayer solstice supper will start at 5:30 Community Centre CASCAPEDIA-ST-JULES: Shigawake p.m. Vegetarian option avail- December 14: Military Whist Royal Canadian Legion ROTARY CLUB WINNERS able. $15 adult and $8 children. beginning at 8 p.m. Br. 172 The winners for the week of 9 a.m. Lessons & Carols Tickets available in advance. The Royal Canadian Legion, December 1 are: Stéphane December 31: Come and join NEW CARLISLE: Branch 172, meets monthly Day, Luc Leblanc, Mario Lou- us for a community breakfast Royal Canadian Legion every third Saturday at the bert, Anik Lamirande, Francois PARISH OF GASPÉ starting at 8 a.m. Voluntary December 14: Christmas Legion located at 55 Gallagher Paquet, Jean McWhirter and Sunday, December 15 contribution of $8 adult and $4 dance featuring Tammy Adams St. Danielle Bergeron. St. Andrews - York children (5-11 years old). beginning at 8 p.m. $10 per The winners for the week of 10 a.m. Holy Eucharist Please be advised that our person. Limited tickets avail- CASCAPEDIA-ST-JULES: December 8 are: Angèle offices will be closed from able. Call 418-752-6799. Book Room Babin, Marlyne Cyr, Don Fallow, December 21 to January 5. December 15: BREAKING Every Wednesday: The book Jean-Steve Joseph, Barry

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Page 11, December 11, 2019 - Spec Striped Skunk

The little skunk is black and white, So you won’t step on him at night. For if you do, I’m sad to tell, He’ll leave you with an awful smell.

Diane Skinner

The skunk is an unwelcome night visitor. They will dig up your lawn searching for grubs and spray any dogs that may come near them. It is their defense and it is a pretty ef- fective one at that. The skunk was once considered to be part of the weasel Teachers’ Guide family, but DNA tells us that they are not. Rather, they Comprehension: make up their own family. They are black in colour with 1. Describe the physical appearance of the skunk. noticeable white stripes (striped skunk) or spots (spotted 2. What do skunks eat? skunk). Adult skunks average 50 cm long and weigh 1.5 kg. 3. Describe what a skunk track looks like. Skunks have short, stumpy legs, small heads and pointy 4. How can you discourage skunks from taking up residence under your porch? snouts. 5. Describe the burrowing habits of the skunk. Skunks can be found in every province in Canada ex- Vocabulary: cept for Newfoundland and Nunavut. They spend their days Scavenge, hibernate, gestation, secretion, weaned in burrows and come out at night to hunt for food. They Extra: often live in grassland areas and in mixed forests. Skunks Research ways to get rid of skunk spray on an unlucky dog. Has your pet ever been will take over the burrow of other animals. When they dig sprayed? Tell about that experience. their own, they are very adept at digging and will tunnel up to 30 cm under the ground. They will also burrow under- neath a porch or shed. Skunks have become used to humans and will scavenge for garbage, in gardens, outdoor animal food and even com- post piles. They eat insects, fruit, vegetation, worms, bird eggs and, at times, small animals such as field mice. They are omnivores, eating both plants and animals. They can develop rabies, so do not approach a skunk particularly if it is behaving strangely. They sleep through the winter months, often huddled together with a few other skunks. Sometimes, though, up to 20 will live together during the winter months. They do not actually hibernate, but are less active. They may remain in their burrow for weeks Males will mate with numerous females. The female will look after her litter by herself and a litter of four to six is common. The gestation period is about 60 days. At the age of two months the young skunks will be weaned and quite independent, though they will stay with their mother until spring. If you suspect that you have skunks in your yard, check for tracks. The tracks look very similar to bear tracks, though smaller. They tend to walk flat-footed so the track should appear complete. You may see prints with five toes on the four feet. If you look closely you may see impres- sions of the long claws on the front feet. Snap a photo and check online to verify if it is a skunk track. Skunks are famous, of course, for their smell which is produced in their anal glands. They can launch the secretion up to four metres. The oily musk is so strong that it can cause irritation and temporary blindness. It is difficult to get rid of the smell and the skunk is able to discharge the foul smelling spray up to six times in succession. How do you discourage skunks from taking up residence around your home? There are a few suggestions including: Irish Spring Soap bars, human urine, citrus peels and bright lights. Do not poison them because predators will eat the poisoned carcass and be poisoned in turn. Skunks are generally easy-going creatures. The skunk can be an annoying night visitor when they spray, dig up your lawn or move into your shed, however, they do serve a purpose when they eat insects and rodents.

Page 12, December 11, 2019 - Spec